Best Toaster

Mick

By Mick

| Updated 3 Days Ago

  • Toasters are a kitchen essential, providing a quick and easy way to make crispy bread and bagels for breakfast. These appliances use heating elements to brown bread evenly, delivering that perfect crunch. A good toaster should handle various types of bread and bagels without burning. When choosing a toaster, consider how many slices you typically need—two-slice models are ideal for smaller households, while four-slice versions suit families. Slot width is also important, as wider slots accommodate thicker bagels and artisan breads. We tested eight popular toasters, evaluating how evenly they toasted, their ease of use and cleaning, and their performance with different bread types. Our goal was to find toasters that deliver consistently great results, no matter what you’re toasting.

  • Mueller UltraToast 4-Slice

    10

    We think the Mueller UltraToast is a solid choice for families who want a sleek, versatile 4-slice toaster with easy-to-use features.

    10

    We think the Mueller UltraToast is a solid choice for families who want a sleek, versatile 4-slice toaster with easy-to-use features.

    Pros

    • Wide slots fit thick breads and bagels
    • Six browning levels for perfect toast
    • Easy-clean removable crumb tray

    Cons

    • Toasting can be slow for some
    • Depth may not fit all bread sizes
    • Lightweight build feels less premium

    We tried out the Mueller UltraToast in our kitchen and were impressed by its clean stainless steel look. It fits nicely against our backsplash without taking up too much counter space. The touch buttons and LED display make it simple to adjust settings.

    When we popped in some thick artisan bread slices, they fit easily in the wide slots. We like how the self-centering guides ensure even toasting. The six browning levels let us dial in our preferred crispness, though we noticed it takes a bit longer than some other toasters we’ve used.

    The defrost and reheat functions came in handy for frozen waffles and leftover toast. Clean-up is a breeze thanks to the removable crumb tray. While it feels a bit light for its size, we think the Mueller UltraToast offers good value for families wanting a versatile 4-slice toaster with helpful features.

    Sale
    Mueller UltraToast 4-Slice
    • Multifunctional Toaster – Kickstart your mornings with fresh toast or perfectly warmed bagels with the Mueller UltraCrisp 4 Slice Toaster. Features Cancel, Defrost, and Reheat functions, self-centering slot guides, and intelligent heating technology to deliver even toasting every time!
  • GE 2-Slice Stainless Steel Toaster

    9.7

    We recommend this GE toaster for its versatility, even toasting, and user-friendly features.

    9.7

    We recommend this GE toaster for its versatility, even toasting, and user-friendly features.

    Pros

    • Wide slots fit various bread types
    • 7 shade settings for customized toasting
    • Easy-to-use illuminated buttons

    Cons

    • Some users report uneven browning
    • Pricier than basic models
    • May not be ideal for large families

    We’ve been using this GE toaster in our test kitchen, and it’s quickly become a favorite. The wide slots easily fit bagels and thick slices of artisan bread. We love how we can adjust the settings to get our toast just right, from lightly golden to dark and crispy.

    The illuminated buttons are a nice touch. They clearly show which setting we’ve chosen, even in low light. We found the cancel button handy when we needed to stop toasting mid-cycle.

    Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the removable crumb tray. We simply pull it out and empty it over the trash. The stainless steel exterior looks sleek on our countertop and wipes clean easily.

    We did notice that sometimes one side of the bread toasts a bit darker than the other. It’s not a deal-breaker, but worth mentioning. Also, if you have a big family, you might want a 4-slice model instead.

    GE 2-Slice Stainless Steel Toaster
    • 7 SHADE SETTINGS: Enjoy a variety of toast options thanks to multiple shade adjustability that delivers 7 shades of doneness from lightest to darkest, satisfying everyone's preferences
  • BUYDEEM Retro Toaster

    9.5

    We think this stylish toaster is a great choice for those who want even toasting and versatile options.

    9.5

    We think this stylish toaster is a great choice for those who want even toasting and versatile options.

    Pros

    • Wide slots fit various bread sizes
    • True bagel function
    • Easy-to-clean removable crumb tray

    Cons

    • Pricier than basic models
    • Unique color may not suit all kitchens
    • Limited to 2 slices

    We’ve been using this BUYDEEM toaster for a while now, and it’s quickly become our go-to for morning breakfasts. The wide slots easily fit thick slices of artisan bread and bagels, which is a huge plus. We no longer struggle to fish out smaller items thanks to the high lift lever.

    The bagel function is a standout feature. It toasts the cut side while gently warming the outside, giving us perfectly crispy bagels every time. We also appreciate the 7 shade settings, which let us get our toast just right, whether we want it lightly golden or well-done.

    Cleaning is a breeze with the pull-out crumb tray. We just slide it out, empty it into the trash, and slide it back in. The retro design adds a fun pop of color to our kitchen, though the greenish hue might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Overall, we find this toaster to be a reliable and attractive addition to our countertop.

    BUYDEEM Retro Toaster
    • Bagel & Muffin Expert - True bagel toasting function, heats up both sides of the bagel initially, then only toasts the cutting side of the bagel. Enjoy your crispy cutting side bagel!
  • Wolf Gourmet 4-Slice Toaster

    9.4

    We think this premium toaster is worth the splurge for serious toast lovers who want top-notch performance and durability.

    9.4

    We think this premium toaster is worth the splurge for serious toast lovers who want top-notch performance and durability.

    Pros

    • Extra-wide slots fit thick breads
    • Self-centering guides for even browning
    • Sturdy stainless steel build

    Cons

    • Very expensive
    • Large countertop footprint
    • May be overkill for casual users

    The Wolf Gourmet toaster impressed us with its thoughtful design and consistent results. Its extra-wide slots easily fit bagels and artisan breads without squishing. The self-centering guides worked great, keeping even thin slices perfectly centered for even browning on both sides.

    We loved the precise shade control. The dial let us dial in our ideal toast color, from barely golden to dark and crispy. The bagel and frozen settings also came in handy. The extended bread lifter was a nice touch, making it easy to grab smaller items.

    This toaster feels built to last. The stainless steel body and commercial-grade heating elements should stand up to years of use. While pricey, we think it’s a worthwhile investment for toast enthusiasts. Just be aware it takes up a fair amount of counter space.

    Wolf Gourmet 4-Slice Toaster
    • EXTRA-WIDE TOAST SLOTS. Bagels, crumpets, brioche, homemade artisan bread — all your favorites slide easily into the slots without the usual cramming and crumbling. After toasting, the extended bread lifter gently rises to the ideal height for easy access.
  • Geek Chef 4-Slice Toaster

    9.3

    We recommend this toaster for its versatility, wide slots, and dual controls that cater to different preferences.

    9.3

    We recommend this toaster for its versatility, wide slots, and dual controls that cater to different preferences.

    Pros

    • Extra-wide slots fit various bread types
    • Dual independent control panels
    • Six browning settings for customization

    Cons

    • Exterior gets hot during use
    • Requires longer toasting for some items
    • May not handle very small items well

    The Geek Chef 4-Slice Toaster impressed us with its sleek stainless steel design and practical features. We found the 1.5-inch wide slots perfect for toasting everything from regular bread to chunky bagels. It’s a relief not to struggle with fitting our favorite artisanal loaves anymore.

    We love the dual independent control panels. They let us toast different items at the same time, which is super handy for families with varied tastes. The six browning settings gave us plenty of options to get our toast just right, from lightly golden to dark and crunchy.

    The bagel, defrost, and cancel functions worked well in our tests. We especially liked the high lift lever, which made grabbing smaller slices much easier. Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the removable crumb tray. While it’s mostly great, we noticed the exterior gets quite hot, so be careful. Some items like English muffins needed extra time to toast evenly.

    Sale
    Geek Chef 4-Slice Toaster
    • 🍞【Extra-Wide Slots】 Our 4-slice stainless steel toaster features 1.5-inch wide slots, perfect for toasting various types of bread, from bagels and English muffins to thicker slices like sourdough and Texas toast. The wide slots ensure even toasting and can accommodate different bread sizes.
  • SEEDEEM 4-Slice Digital Toaster

    9.1

    We think this toaster is a good choice for families who want control and convenience in their morning routine.

    9.1

    We think this toaster is a good choice for families who want control and convenience in their morning routine.

    Pros

    • LCD display with countdown timer
    • Independent controls for each side
    • Wide slots for bagels and thick bread

    Cons

    • May be too large for small kitchens
    • Digital controls can be tricky at first
    • Higher price point than basic toasters

    We tested the SEEDEEM 4-Slice Digital Toaster in our kitchen for a week, and it quickly became a morning favorite. The stainless steel body looks sleek on the counter, and the wide slots easily fit our bagels and thick-cut bread.

    The LCD display is a standout feature. We loved watching the countdown timer, which took the guesswork out of toasting. No more burnt toast surprises! The six shade settings let us dial in our perfect golden-brown every time.

    One of the best things about this toaster is the dual control area. We could toast a bagel on one side and regular bread on the other, each with its own settings. It’s great for families with different tastes. The defrost and reheat functions also came in handy for frozen waffles and leftover slices.

    SEEDEEM 4-Slice Digital Toaster
    • Multiple Flavor: The digital toaster provides 6 shade setting bread from light yellow to deep dark. Through adjusting the knob, can get different shades of bread to make your breakfast. 2 or 4 pieces of bread toasted at a time will be more uniform.
  • SEEDEEM 4-Slice Smart Toaster

    9

    We recommend this toaster for its versatile features and user-friendly design that make breakfast prep a breeze.

    9

    We recommend this toaster for its versatile features and user-friendly design that make breakfast prep a breeze.

    Pros

    • Smart LCD display with countdown timer
    • Dual independent control areas
    • Wide slots fit various bread types

    Cons

    • Controls may feel less premium
    • Display can be hard to read
    • Takes up counter space

    We’ve been using this SEEDEEM toaster for a while now, and it’s become a morning favorite. The colorful LCD screens are a nice touch. They show the shade setting and countdown time, so we always know when our toast will pop up. No more burnt surprises!

    The toaster has 7 shade settings. We found the middle settings work best for most breads. There’s even a special setting that gives a nice burnt flavor without drying out the bread. It’s perfect for those who like their toast with a bit of crunch.

    We love the dual control areas. It’s great for families with different tastes. We can make light toast on one side and dark on the other at the same time. The wide slots fit bagels and thick slices easily. The lift lever is smooth, and the auto pop-up works well. Clean-up is simple with the removable crumb tray. It’s a solid choice for busy kitchens.

    SEEDEEM 4-Slice Smart Toaster
    • Smart Control: The 1800W toaster has 2 colorful LCD timer display, so you can clearly see shade setting and the countdown. You know when the bread will pop-up, so you can arrange time properly.
  • SEEDEEM Retro Red Toaster

    8.7

    We think this toaster is a solid choice for anyone who wants a reliable and feature-packed appliance for their morning routine.

    8.7

    We think this toaster is a solid choice for anyone who wants a reliable and feature-packed appliance for their morning routine.

    Pros

    • Clear LCD display shows remaining time
    • 7 shade settings for precise toasting
    • Extra wide slots fit various bread types

    Cons

    • Plastic exterior may feel less premium
    • Only toasts 2 slices at a time
    • Some users may find it light and flimsy

    We recently tried out the SEEDEEM Retro Red Toaster and were impressed by its performance. The LCD display is a standout feature, clearly showing the remaining toasting time. This took the guesswork out of getting our bread just right.

    The 7 shade settings gave us plenty of control over our toast. We found the middle settings worked well for most bread types, while the higher settings were perfect for bagels. The extra wide slots easily fit thick slices and bagels without squishing them.

    We appreciated the 4-in-1 functions, especially the defrost option for frozen bread. The reheat function was handy for warming up toast that had gone cold. The removable crumb tray made cleanup a breeze, though we wish the toaster felt a bit sturdier overall.

    Sale
    SEEDEEM Retro Red Toaster
    • Clear LCD Display: This extra wide slots toaster has a clear and bright LCD timer display, so after selecting your desired settings, you can clearly see the remaining time. When baking is finished, the toaster will pop up the bread automatically.
  • Cuisinart Compact Toaster

    8.7

    We recommend this affordable and compact 2-slice toaster for its versatility and ease of use.

    8.7

    We recommend this affordable and compact 2-slice toaster for its versatility and ease of use.

    Pros

    • Seven shade settings for precise toasting
    • Wide slots fit bagels and thick breads
    • Compact design saves counter space

    Cons

    • Plastic exterior may feel less durable
    • Toasting can be slightly uneven
    • Toast doesn’t always pop up high enough

    We’ve been using the Cuisinart Compact Toaster in our test kitchen for a few weeks now. Its small footprint is perfect for tight spaces, and we like how it can be placed sideways or forward-facing to fit different counter layouts.

    The wide slots easily accommodate bagels and thick-cut bread. We found the high-lift lever helpful for fishing out smaller items without burning our fingers. The 7 shade settings give good control over toasting, though we noticed some slight unevenness on occasion.

    We appreciate the handy defrost and cancel buttons. The slide-out crumb tray makes cleanup simple. While the plastic body may not feel as solid as pricier metal models, it keeps the toaster lightweight and easy to move. For the price, we think this Cuisinart offers good value and performance for everyday toasting needs.

    Sale
    Cuisinart Compact Toaster
    • FUNCTIONAL: This compact toaster is able to fit comfortably on your countertops while toasting bagels, toast and a preheat, defrost and cancel option
  • B+D Extra-Wide Toaster

    8.6

    We recommend this BLACK+DECKER toaster for its versatility, ease of use, and solid performance at an affordable price point.

    8.6

    We recommend this BLACK+DECKER toaster for its versatility, ease of use, and solid performance at an affordable price point.

    Pros

    • Extra-wide slots fit thick breads and bagels
    • Six shade settings for precise toasting
    • Helpful frozen and bagel functions

    Cons

    • Plastic exterior may not suit all kitchens
    • Cord placement could be inconvenient
    • Toasting may be slightly uneven on edges

    We put this BLACK+DECKER toaster through its paces in our kitchen. The extra-wide slots easily handled everything from thin sandwich bread to thick artisan loaves. We liked being able to choose from six different shade settings to get our toast just right.

    The frozen and bagel buttons came in handy. When we popped in frozen waffles, the toaster adjusted automatically for perfect results. The bagel function toasted the cut side while just warming the outside.

    We found the slide-out crumb tray simple to use and clean. It kept our counter free of mess. The black plastic exterior looks sleek, though some may prefer a metal finish. At 850 watts, it toasted quickly and efficiently.

    While mostly even, we noticed the edges of bread were occasionally a bit lighter than the center. The cord comes out of the front, which took some getting used to. But these were minor quibbles for an otherwise solid toaster at this price.

    B+D Extra-Wide Toaster
    • Special Functions - Press the frozen or bagel buttons and the toaster will automatically adjust to provide ideal results. Plus, the cancel button pops the toaster at any time

Buying Guide

When shopping for a toaster, we recommend focusing on a few key features:

Slot Size

Look for wide and deep slots that can accommodate different bread types. Bagel-friendly slots are a plus.

Number of Slots

Choose between 2-slot and 4-slot models based on your household size and needs.

Controls

Seek adjustable browning settings and specialized functions like defrost or bagel modes.

Ease of Cleaning

A removable crumb tray makes maintenance simpler.

Safety Features

Auto shut-off and cool-touch exteriors add peace of mind.

Durability

Stainless steel bodies often last longer than plastic ones.

Here’s a quick comparison of common toaster types:

TypeBest ForFeatures
2-SlotSmall householdsCompact, energy-efficient
4-SlotLarger familiesHigher capacity, often dual controls
Long-SlotArtisanal breadsFits odd shapes, good for sandwiches

We suggest reading user reviews to gauge reliability and performance over time.

Price isn’t always an indicator of quality. Mid-range models often offer the best balance of features and value.

Consider counter space when choosing. Measure your available area before buying.

Look for warranties, especially on pricier models. A good warranty can save money in the long run.