Best Toasters for Perfectly Toasted Bread Every Time
Toasters are a ubiquitous appliance in most kitchens, and for good reason. Toast is a simple and delicious breakfast staple that can be customized to your liking. Whether you prefer a light golden brown or a darker, crispy slice, a quality toaster can make all the difference.
When it comes to choosing the best toaster, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to think about how many slices you typically toast at once. If you’re toasting for a large family or group, a four-slice toaster may be the way to go. For smaller households or individuals, a two-slice toaster may suffice.
Another important consideration is the type of bread you typically toast. If you often toast thick slices of artisan bread or bagels, you’ll want to look for a toaster with wider slots. On the other hand, if you primarily toast standard sliced bread, most toasters will do the job just fine.
We spent hours researching and testing various toasters to identify the best options on the market. From classic two-slice toasters to high-tech models with advanced features, we’ve got you covered. So whether you’re a toast connoisseur or just looking for a reliable appliance to start your day, we’ve got the inside scoop on the best toasters out there.
Best Toasters
We have researched and tested various toasters to bring you the best options available on Amazon. Whether you’re looking for a basic toaster or one with advanced features, we have got you covered. Our list includes toasters that offer consistent browning, wide slots for bagels, defrosting and reheating options, and much more. So, without further ado, here are the best toasters on Amazon.
1) Amazon Basics 2 Slice, Extra-Wide Slot Toaster with 6 Shade Settings, Black & Silver
If you’re looking for a simple, no-frills toaster that gets the job done, the Amazon Basics 2 Slice Toaster is a great option.
PROS
CONS
In our experience, the Amazon Basics 2 Slice Toaster is a reliable and affordable option for those in need of a basic toaster. The extra-wide slots are a nice touch, and the 6 shade settings allow you to achieve the perfect level of toasting. The removable crumb tray is also a convenient feature that makes cleanup quick and easy.
However, it’s worth noting that the toaster can be a bit slow, especially on higher shade settings. Additionally, the plastic exterior can get hot to the touch, so be careful when handling it. Finally, some users have reported a slight burning smell during the first few uses, but this seems to dissipate quickly.
Overall, we would recommend the Amazon Basics 2 Slice Toaster to anyone in need of a simple, no-frills toaster at an affordable price.
2) GE Stainless Steel Toaster | 2 Slice
If you’re looking for a compact and efficient toaster that can accommodate various types of bread, pastries, waffles, and bagels, then the GE Stainless Steel Toaster is a good option to consider. With 7 shade settings, you can enjoy a variety of toast options that deliver 7 shades of doneness from lightest to darkest, satisfying everyone’s preferences.
PROS
CONS
We found that the GE Stainless Steel Toaster is a good option for those who need a compact and efficient toaster that can accommodate various types of bread. The 7 shade settings allow for a variety of toast options, and the extra-wide toaster slots can fit most types of bread, pastries, waffles, and bagels. The removable crumb tray makes it easy to keep the toaster clean, and the illuminated buttons help to show you the setting you’ve chosen. However, some users have reported that one side of the toast can be more toasted than the other, and the toaster can emit a burning smell during the first few uses. Additionally, the toaster is not heavy-duty and may not last as long as other models. Overall, we recommend the GE Stainless Steel Toaster for those who need a basic toaster that can handle most types of bread.
3) Mueller UltraToast Full Stainless Steel Toaster 4 Slice
If you’re in the market for a reliable and affordable toaster, the Mueller UltraToast Full Stainless Steel Toaster 4 Slice is definitely worth considering.
PROS
CONS
We recently tried out the Mueller UltraToast Full Stainless Steel Toaster 4 Slice and were impressed with its performance. The six browning settings allowed us to get our toast just the way we like it, and the extra-wide slots fit all of our favorite breads and bagels.
One thing to note is that the toaster took a bit longer to toast than some other models we’ve used in the past. However, we didn’t mind the extra wait time since it allowed us to get perfectly toasted bread every time.
The removable crumb tray was also a nice feature, making it easy to clean up any crumbs that fell during toasting. The brushed stainless steel exterior looked sleek and modern, although it did show fingerprints and smudges.
Overall, we would recommend the Mueller UltraToast Full Stainless Steel Toaster 4 Slice to anyone in need of a reliable and affordable toaster.
4) Cuisinart Compact Toaster
If you are looking for a simple and compact toaster that can handle various types of bread, the Cuisinart Compact Toaster is worth checking out.
PROS
CONS
We recently purchased the Cuisinart Compact Toaster and have been pleased with its performance so far. The wide slots can easily fit thicker bread slices and bagels without any issues. The shade dial is easy to use and provides a range of options to achieve the perfect level of toasting.
While the plastic construction may not be as sturdy as other materials, it does make the toaster lightweight and easy to move around the kitchen. The slide-out crumb tray is a convenient feature that makes cleaning up a breeze.
One potential downside is that the toaster may not be as fast as other models on the market. However, we haven’t found this to be a major issue, and the toasting results have been consistent and even.
Overall, if you are looking for a compact and versatile toaster that won’t break the bank, the Cuisinart Compact Toaster is a solid option to consider.
5) Cuisinart Metal Classic 2-Slice Toaster
If you’re looking for a reliable toaster that can handle your daily breakfast routine, the Cuisinart Metal Classic 2-Slice Toaster is worth considering.
PROS
CONS
Overall, the Cuisinart Metal Classic 2-Slice Toaster is a solid choice for those who want a simple, functional toaster that won’t break the bank. Its compact size, custom controls, and extra-lift carriage lever make it a convenient addition to any kitchen. However, if you prefer thicker slices of bread or bagels, or like your toast extra crispy, you may want to consider a toaster with wider slots and more shade settings.
6) Amazon Basics 4 Slot Toaster – Black Black 4 slot Toaster
If you’re on the hunt for a reliable and affordable toaster, the Amazon Basics 4 Slot Toaster is definitely worth considering.
PROS
CONS
We were impressed with how quickly and evenly this toaster was able to toast bread, bagels, and English muffins. The six browning settings allowed us to choose our preferred level of toasting, and the multifunctional controls for bagels, defrost mode, and quick-cancel were a nice touch. The removable crumb tray made cleaning up a breeze.
However, we did notice that the handles may be prone to breaking easily, and some customers reported that the knobs were broken upon delivery. Additionally, while the black color may fit in well with some kitchen aesthetics, it may not be the most visually appealing toaster on the market.
Overall, if you’re in need of a reliable toaster that won’t break the bank, the Amazon Basics 4 Slot Toaster is a solid choice.
7) Mueller Retro Toaster 2 Slice with 7 Browning Levels and 3 Functions: Reheat, Defrost & Cancel, Stainless Steel Features, Removable Crumb Tray, Under Base Cord Storage, Turquoise 2 Slice Turquoise
If you’re on the hunt for a toaster that can handle all your favorite bread types, the Mueller Retro Toaster 2 Slice is definitely worth considering. With seven browning settings, self-centering slots, and three functions (reheat, defrost, and cancel), this toaster can handle everything from thick slices of bread to English muffins.
PROS
CONS
We recently had the chance to try out the Mueller Retro Toaster 2 Slice, and we were impressed with its overall performance. The toaster’s self-centering slots made it easy to toast everything from thick slices of bread to English muffins, and the seven browning settings allowed us to get our toast just the way we like it.
One thing we particularly appreciated about this toaster was its retro-inspired design. The stainless steel finish and range of color options make it a stylish addition to any kitchen, and the compact size means it won’t take up too much counter space. Plus, the slide-out crumb tray made it easy to keep the toaster clean and tidy.
That being said, we did notice that the toaster’s browning control knob can be a bit loose, which made it difficult to set the desired level of toasting at times. Additionally, while the toaster can handle most bread types, we did find that it struggled a bit with thicker bagels.
Overall, we would recommend the Mueller Retro Toaster 2 Slice to anyone in the market for a compact, versatile toaster with a stylish design. While it may not be the best choice for larger households or those who frequently toast thicker breads, it’s an excellent option for anyone looking for a reliable, easy-to-use toaster that can handle a range of bread types.
8) BLACK+DECKER 2-Slice Toaster
If you’re in the market for an affordable toaster that does the job well, the BLACK+DECKER 2-Slice Toaster is a great option.
PROS
CONS
We recently purchased the BLACK+DECKER 2-Slice Toaster for our office kitchen, and it’s been a solid choice for our needs. The toaster is easy to use and has a simple design that doesn’t take up too much space on the counter.
One thing we appreciate about this toaster is the six timed shade settings. It’s easy to get your toast exactly how you like it, whether you prefer it lightly toasted or well done. We also like the special functions for frozen items and bagels, which work well and make it easy to toast these items without any fuss.
The extra-wide slots are another standout feature of this toaster. They easily accommodate thick slices of bread and bagels, which is great if you prefer heartier breads. However, we have noticed that the toaster can be a bit flimsy and doesn’t feel as durable as some other models we’ve used in the past.
Another minor issue with the BLACK+DECKER 2-Slice Toaster is the short cord. Depending on where you plan to use the toaster, this can be a bit inconvenient. Additionally, the toaster doesn’t have any advanced features like a countdown timer or automatic lift, which may be a dealbreaker for some users.
Overall, we would recommend the BLACK+DECKER 2-Slice Toaster for anyone looking for an affordable and reliable toaster that gets the job done well.
9) Breville Bit More Toaster
If you’re looking for a compact toaster with innovative features, the Breville Bit More Toaster is a great option.
PROS
CONS
We recently used the Breville Bit More Toaster and were impressed with its performance. The LED indicator allows you to monitor your progress, and the manual lift and lowering lever lets you check on your toast’s progress at any time. We particularly liked the “A Bit More” feature, which let us add a little extra time without interrupting the toasting cycle. The toaster was easy to clean, with a front crumb tray that can be easily emptied into the dustbin.
Overall, if you’re looking for a toaster with innovative features and a compact design, the Breville Bit More Toaster is a great option to consider.
10) WHALL® Touch Screen Toaster 2 Slice, Stainless Steel Digital Timer Toaster, 6 Bread Types & 6 Shade Settings, Smart Extra Wide Slots Toaster With Bagel, Cancel, Defrost Functions silver
If you’re looking for a smart toaster that can handle all your toasting needs, the WHALL Touch Screen Toaster is a great choice.
PROS
CONS
In our experience, the WHALL Touch Screen Toaster is a great addition to any kitchen. The touch screen and digital timer make it easy to use, and the 6 bread types and 6 shade settings ensure that you can get the perfect toast every time. The defrost, bagel, and cancel functions give you complete control over your toasting experience, and the toaster is easy to clean once it cools down. However, the bagel setting only toasts one side of the bagel, which may be a dealbreaker for some. Additionally, the first few times you use the toaster, you’ll need to watch it closely to learn all the settings. Overall, we would recommend the WHALL Touch Screen Toaster to anyone looking for a smart toaster that can handle all their toasting needs.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a toaster, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind when shopping for a toaster:
Size and Capacity
The size and capacity of a toaster are important considerations. If you have a small kitchen or limited counter space, you may want to opt for a compact toaster. On the other hand, if you have a large family or frequently entertain guests, a toaster with multiple slots and a higher capacity may be a better choice.
Toasting Settings
Different toasters come with varying toasting settings, including options for browning, defrosting, and reheating. Consider your personal preferences and needs when choosing a toaster with the right toasting settings for you.
Durability and Material
Toasters can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, stainless steel, and chrome. Consider the durability of the toaster and the materials used in its construction to ensure it will last for years to come.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
A toaster should be easy to use and clean. Look for a toaster with simple controls and a removable crumb tray for easy cleaning. Additionally, consider the design of the toaster and how easy it is to clean any hard-to-reach areas.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best toaster for your needs and enjoy delicious, perfectly toasted bread every morning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I consider when choosing a toaster?
When choosing a toaster, there are several features to consider. These include the number of slots, the size of the slots, the type of heating elements, the level of browning control, and the presence of additional functions such as defrosting or reheating. It is important to select a toaster that suits your specific needs and preferences.
Which toaster brand offers the best durability and performance?
There are several toaster brands that offer excellent durability and performance. Some of the most reliable brands include Breville, Cuisinart, and KitchenAid. These brands are known for their high-quality materials, advanced features, and consistent toasting results.
How do I decide between a toaster oven and a traditional toaster?
Toaster ovens are larger and more versatile than traditional toasters. They can be used to bake, broil, and roast in addition to toasting. Traditional toasters are smaller and more compact, making them ideal for toasting bread and other small items. The decision between a toaster oven and a traditional toaster ultimately depends on your individual needs and cooking habits.
What are the benefits of a long slot toaster compared to a standard one?
Long slot toasters are designed to accommodate longer slices of bread, making them ideal for toasting artisanal bread, baguettes, and other specialty breads. Standard toasters are better suited for regular sliced bread. The choice between a long slot toaster and a standard one depends on your bread preferences and needs.
Are there significant differences in toasting quality between 2-slice and 4-slice toasters?
There may be slight differences in toasting quality between 2-slice and 4-slice toasters, but these differences are generally negligible. The main difference between the two is the number of slices that can be toasted at once. If you frequently make toast for multiple people, a 4-slice toaster may be more convenient.
What should I look for in a toaster to ensure even browning and consistent results?
To ensure even browning and consistent results, look for a toaster with adjustable browning control, wide and deep slots, and even heating elements. It is also important to select a toaster that is easy to clean and maintain, as this will help ensure consistent toasting results over time.
