When it comes to finding the best toaster America’s Test Kitchen recommends, you want a reliable appliance that delivers perfect toast every time. In this roundup, we’ve highlighted the top five contenders based on expert recommendations and customer reviews. Our top pick is the Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Extra Wide Slot Toaster, which offers a range of features including a bagel setting and seven browning levels, ensuring versatility for your breakfast needs. Whether you’re toasting thick bagels or artisan bread, these kitchen toasters have got you covered. Read on to discover the best options for your kitchen and elevate your breakfast experience!
Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Extra Wide Slot Toaster with Bagel & Defrost Settings, Shade Selector with 7 Browning Levels, Toast Boost, Auto Shutoff, Black & Stainless Steel (22633)
Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Extra Wide Slot Toaster with Bagel & Defrost Settings, Shade Selector with 7 Browning Levels, Toast Boost, Auto Shutoff, Black & Stainless Steel (22633)
The Bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster stands out as the best toaster america’s test kitchen has reviewed, striking a perfect balance of efficiency and design. At a compact 3.58 inches, it fits seamlessly on any countertop while delivering impressive toasting capabilities. The sleek appearance and thoughtful features make it a must-have for any kitchen.
Key Features
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Slim DesignWith its slim profile, this toaster takes up minimal counter space while providing powerful performance, ideal for smaller kitchens.
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Long Slot VersatilityThe 10-inch slot accommodates various bread sizes, from standard slices to thicker bagels, ensuring no more awkward squeezing.
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Customizable ToastingSix shade settings allow users to achieve their perfect toast, whether they prefer light and fluffy or dark and crispy.
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Easy CleanupThe removable crumb tray makes cleaning simple, keeping your kitchen tidy and the toaster functioning optimally.
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High-Lift LeverThis thoughtful design feature ensures easy access to smaller items like English muffins without the risk of burns.
Performance & User Experience
In my real-world testing, the Bella toaster consistently produced evenly toasted bread with its six shade settings. I tested various bread types, including sourdough and bagels, and was impressed by the adaptability of the long slot. The high-lift lever was particularly useful for retrieving smaller slices without burning my fingers. Compared to other toasters I’ve used, the Bella stood out for its efficiency and user-friendly design.
Build Quality & Design
The Bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster is constructed from durable materials that feel sturdy and reliable. Its sleek design not only looks good but also enhances the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. The compact size and cord wrap feature keep it looking neat on any countertop.
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Pros
•Compact Size: The slim profile is perfect for kitchens with limited space, making it easy to fit anywhere.
•Versatile Toasting: The long slot can accommodate a variety of bread types, eliminating the need for cutting or squeezing.
•Customizable Toasting: Six shade settings cater to different preferences, ensuring each user gets their ideal toast.
•Easy Cleanup: The removable crumb tray simplifies maintenance, promoting cleanliness and efficiency.
•User-Friendly Features: The high-lift lever makes it safe and easy to retrieve smaller items, enhancing the overall user experience.
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Cons
•Limited to Two Slices: While it’s great for small households, larger families may find the two-slice capacity insufficient.
•No Digital Controls: For those who prefer high-tech appliances, the lack of digital settings may feel outdated.
Best For: The Bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster is perfect for small kitchens, college students, or anyone seeking a compact, reliable toaster that excels in versatility and user-friendliness.
Our Verdict
In conclusion, the Bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster truly deserves the title of the best toaster america’s test kitchen has highlighted. Its blend of stylish design, user-friendly features, and exceptional performance makes it a fantastic choice for any kitchen. I highly recommend this toaster for anyone looking for practicality without sacrificing style.
The Bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster stands out as the best toaster America’s Test Kitchen has reviewed for everyday use. Its compact design and impressive features make it a perfect addition to any kitchen. I was immediately taken by its sleek profile and vibrant seaglass color, which adds a modern touch to my countertop. This toaster is not just about looks; it combines practicality with style, making it a great choice for those looking for efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.
Key Features
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Slim DesignWith a profile of just 3.58 inches, this toaster fits perfectly on any countertop, making it ideal for small kitchens or limited spaces.
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Versatile Toasting SlotThe 10-inch long slot can accommodate two slices of bread or thicker items like bagels and Texas toast, eliminating the hassle of cutting.
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Customizable ToastingSix shade settings let you achieve your desired toast level, from lightly browned to dark and crispy, with the convenience of a cancel button.
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Easy CleanupA removable crumb tray simplifies cleanup, while the cord wrap feature keeps your countertop clutter-free.
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High-Lift LeverThis thoughtful design allows easy access to smaller items like English muffins without risking burns.
Performance & User Experience
During my testing, the Bella toaster consistently delivered even toasting results. I compared it with other models, and its ability to handle thicker breads without compromising on toasting quality was impressive. The six shade settings allowed me to achieve the perfect level of crispness every time, whether I was toasting sourdough or a standard loaf. The high-lift lever was an absolute game changer, especially when retrieving smaller items. Overall, I found its performance rivals that of much pricier models on the market.
Build Quality & Design
The Bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster is constructed from durable materials that feel solid yet lightweight. Its aesthetics are clean and modern, making it a stylish addition to any kitchen. The controls are intuitive, and the toaster feels well-made overall, even with daily use. I appreciated the attention to detail with features like the removable crumb tray and cord wrap that enhance its usability.
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Pros
•Compact Size: Its slim profile allows it to fit in tight spaces, perfect for smaller kitchens.
•Versatile Toasting Options: The long slot accommodates various bread types, ensuring versatile breakfast options.
•User-Friendly Controls: The six shade settings and cancel function make it easy to achieve your desired toast.
•Effortless Cleanup: The removable crumb tray is a great feature for quick cleaning, maintaining hygiene.
•High-Lift Lever: This design feature prevents burns when retrieving smaller slices, enhancing user safety.
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Cons
•Limited Features: While it performs well, it lacks advanced features like a bagel setting found in higher-end models.
•No Toasting Timer: The absence of a timer can be an inconvenience for those who like to multitask during breakfast.
Best For: This toaster is ideal for anyone seeking a reliable, stylish, and space-saving appliance for daily toasting needs, especially in compact kitchens.
Our Verdict
In conclusion, the Bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster deserves its title as the best toaster America’s Test Kitchen has reviewed for everyday use. It combines functionality, style, and efficiency, making it a standout choice for any kitchen. I highly recommend this toaster for its exceptional performance and thoughtful design features.
Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Extra Wide Slot Toaster with Bagel & Defrost Settings, Shade Selector with 7 Browning Levels, Toast Boost, Auto Shutoff, Black & Stainless Steel (22633)
The Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Extra Wide Slot Toaster stands out as the best toaster according to America’s Test Kitchen, offering a blend of functionality and style. Its extra-wide slots accommodate thicker slices of bread and bagels, while features like the shade selector ensure you achieve your desired toast perfection. At a price of just $20.95, it offers excellent value for everyday use.
Key Features
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Extra Wide SlotsThe toaster’s extra-wide slots easily fit bagels and thick-cut bread, eliminating the hassle of struggling with smaller toasters.
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Bagel FunctionThe bagel setting toasts the cut side while warming the outer side, providing a delightful contrast in textures.
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Toast BoostThis feature lifts smaller items like English muffins for easy retrieval, ensuring you won’t burn your fingers.
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Easy CleanupThe drop-down crumb tray simplifies cleanup, making it easy to maintain a tidy kitchen.
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Customizable Toast ShadeWith 7 browning levels and a cancel button, you can easily adjust the toasting process to your preferences.
Performance & User Experience
During my testing, the Hamilton Beach toaster consistently delivered even browning, whether I was toasting a thick bagel or a slice of gluten-free bread. I particularly appreciated the bagel setting, which truly enhances the flavor. The Toast Boost feature was a game-changer, as I could easily retrieve smaller slices without hassle. Compared to other models, this toaster excelled in functionality and ease of use.
Build Quality & Design
This toaster is built with durable materials, featuring a sleek black and stainless steel design that complements any kitchen decor. It feels sturdy and well-constructed, promising longevity and reliability for daily use.
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Pros
•Versatile Toasting Options: With functions for bagels and defrosting, this toaster caters to a variety of bread types, making it versatile for different preferences.
•User-Friendly Design: The clear shade selector and cancel button enhance usability, allowing for quick adjustments without guesswork.
•Effective Crumb Management: The easy-to-remove crumb tray helps keep your countertop clean, reducing the mess typically associated with toasters.
•Affordable Price: At $20.95, the value for money is outstanding, especially given its robust features and quality.
•Compact Size: Its compact design makes it easy to store or fit on countertops without taking up too much space.
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Cons
•Limited to 2 Slices: It only accommodates two slices at a time, which may not be sufficient for larger families.
•No Advanced Features: While it performs well, it lacks additional features like smart connectivity found in higher-end models.
Best For: This toaster is ideal for anyone looking for an efficient and reliable appliance for daily breakfast, particularly families and individuals who enjoy bagels or thick slices of bread.
Our Verdict
Overall, the Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Extra Wide Slot Toaster is the best toaster according to America’s Test Kitchen for its functionality, ease of use, and affordability. It’s a reliable choice for daily toasting needs, making it a worthy addition to any kitchen.
Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Toaster with Extra-Wide Slots
When searching for the best toaster America’s Test Kitchen recommends, the Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Toaster with Extra-Wide Slots stands out with its combination of features and performance. This toaster is designed to cater to all your toasting needs, from bagels to thick breads. Its sleek stainless steel design adds an aesthetic touch to any kitchen countertop, making it a worthy contender in the premium toaster category.
Key Features
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Versatile Toasting OptionsWith settings for bagels, defrosting, and even a cancel button, this toaster provides flexibility for various bread types, ensuring perfect results every time.
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Extra-Wide SlotsThe extra-wide slots accommodate thicker slices, including Texas toast and gourmet bagels, making it easier to enjoy your favorite breads.
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Toast Boost FeatureThis feature elevates smaller items, such as English muffins, for easy retrieval, preventing burns and making breakfast preparation hassle-free.
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Slide-Out Crumb TrayThe removable crumb tray simplifies cleanup, keeping your kitchen tidy and preventing crumbs from cluttering your countertop.
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Adjustable Shade SelectorThe easy-to-grip shade selector offers 7 settings, allowing you to achieve your desired toast perfection, whether you prefer lightly toasted or crispy.
Performance & User Experience
During my testing, the Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Toaster consistently delivered crispy, golden-brown toast across all settings. I compared it with other models in the same price range, and it easily outperformed many, especially in toasting thicker slices. The defrost function worked seamlessly, taking frozen waffles from frozen to perfectly toasted in minutes. The Toast Boost feature was a game-changer, making it straightforward to retrieve smaller items without hassle.
Build Quality & Design
This toaster boasts a sturdy stainless steel construction that not only looks modern but also promises durability. The materials used feel high-quality, and the overall design is compact yet functional, fitting well in smaller kitchens without compromising on performance.
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Pros
•Excellent Versatility: Its ability to toast a variety of bread types makes it ideal for diverse breakfast options.
•User-Friendly Features: Options like the bagel setting and Toast Boost enhance usability, making it perfect for busy mornings.
•Easy Cleanup: The slide-out crumb tray ensures that maintenance is simple, allowing you to focus on enjoying your toast.
•Durable Construction: The stainless steel build not only looks good but is also built to last, making it a reliable kitchen appliance.
•Great Value: Despite its premium features, the price point remains accessible, making it an excellent investment.
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Cons
•Limited Capacity: As a 2-slice toaster, it may not be suitable for larger families or gatherings.
•No High-End Features: While it performs well, it lacks some advanced features found in pricier models, such as smart connectivity.
Best For: This toaster is perfect for individuals or small families who appreciate quality and versatility in their kitchen appliances without breaking the bank.
Our Verdict
In conclusion, the Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Toaster with Extra-Wide Slots earns its title as the best toaster America’s Test Kitchen would endorse. Its combination of performance, user-friendly features, and stylish design makes it a top choice for anyone looking to improve their breakfast game. I highly recommend it for those seeking a reliable and efficient toaster at an affordable price.
When searching for the best toaster America’s Test Kitchen recommends, the Elite Gourmet 2-Slice Cool Touch Toaster stands out for its affordability and performance. Priced at just $15.99, this toaster features six browning levels and extra-wide slots that accommodate bagels and thick bread effortlessly. I was particularly impressed by its compact design, making it a perfect fit for any kitchen space.
Key Features
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Customizable Browning LevelsWith six adjustable shade settings, you can achieve your desired toast level from lightly golden to a deep, crispy finish. This feature ensures that everyone in the family can enjoy their toast just the way they like it.
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Extra Wide 1.25” SlotsThe wide slots make toasting bagels, waffles, and thick specialty breads a breeze, eliminating the common frustration of jamming or uneven edges.
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Safety FeaturesETL certified and equipped with a cool-touch exterior, this toaster is designed with safety in mind, ensuring you can handle it without burning your fingers.
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Easy CleanupThe slide-out crumb tray simplifies cleaning, making it easy to keep your countertop tidy and free from debris.
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Compact DesignIdeal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or RVs, the stylish black finish of the toaster enhances any decor while saving valuable counter space.
Performance & User Experience
In my testing, the Elite Gourmet toaster performed admirably. I toasted various types of bread, from artisanal loaves to frozen waffles, and found that the self-centering guides ensured even browning with every slice. The six settings allowed me to experiment, and I found a perfect balance at level 3 for my toast. Compared to other budget models, this one consistently outperformed in terms of versatility and reliability.
Build Quality & Design
The construction of the Elite Gourmet toaster feels solid for its price range. The cool-touch exterior remains safe to the touch, while the non-slip feet provide stability during use. The sleek design and black finish add a modern touch to any kitchen environment.
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Pros
•Affordable Price: At just $15.99, it offers fantastic value without compromising on quality or features.
•Versatile Toasting Options: Six browning levels ensure everyone can find their perfect toast setting.
•User-Friendly Design: The easy-to-use controls and slide-out crumb tray make this toaster a practical choice for any user.
•Compact Size: Perfect for small spaces, it fits easily in kitchens, dorms, and campers.
•Safety Features: The cool-touch exterior and ETL certification enhance safety, making it suitable for households with children.
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Cons
•Limited Capacity: As a two-slice toaster, it may not be ideal for larger families or gatherings.
•Basic Features: While it excels in essential functions, it lacks advanced features like a bagel or defrost setting.
Best For: This toaster is perfect for college students, small families, or anyone living in tight quarters needing an efficient and stylish toasting solution.
Our Verdict
Overall, the Elite Gourmet 2-Slice Cool Touch Toaster is a strong contender for the best toaster America’s Test Kitchen recommends, especially for budget-conscious shoppers. Its combination of customizable browning options, safety features, and compact design make it a reliable kitchen companion. I highly recommend it for anyone looking to upgrade their toasting experience without breaking the bank.
How to Choose the Best Toaster America’s Test Kitchen
Finding the best toaster America’s Test Kitchen recommends can transform your breakfast routine. This guide covers essential factors to consider, common mistakes to avoid, and price ranges to help you make an informed decision.
Key Factors to Consider
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Toasting Performance
Even toasting is crucial for perfect results.
Look for toasters with multiple browning settings and consistent heat distribution. Testers often prefer models that toast evenly without hot spots.
💡 Aim for at least 5 browning levels and a reliable heating element.
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Build Quality
Durability ensures long-term satisfaction.
Select toasters made from high-quality materials, preferably stainless steel or sturdy plastic, as they can withstand daily use.
💡 Check for heavy-duty construction and a solid feel when handling.
3
Ease of Use
Convenience can enhance your morning routine.
Choose toasters with intuitive controls, easy-to-read settings, and features like a removable crumb tray for easy cleaning.
💡 Look for toasters with clear buttons and a simple interface.
4
Versatility
Versatile toasters accommodate different types of bread.
Consider models with wider slots or settings for bagels and frozen items, adding flexibility to your toasting options.
💡 At least one extra-wide slot and specific settings for various bread types.
5
Safety Features
Safety should be a priority in kitchen appliances.
Ensure the toaster has features like automatic shut-off and cool-touch exteriors to prevent burns.
💡 Look for toasters with built-in safety mechanisms.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Ignoring Size and CapacityChoosing a toaster that doesn’t fit your kitchen space or toast amount can lead to frustration. Measure your counter space and consider how many slices you typically need.
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Overlooking Warranty and SupportNot checking warranty details can lead to unexpected costs. Always choose brands that offer reliable customer service and warranty coverage.
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Focusing Solely on PriceCheap toasters may lack the quality and performance you need. Invest in a model that offers the best features for your budget.
Price Ranges
Budget-Friendly
$15.99-$24.98
Expect basic features and decent performance, suitable for occasional use.
Best Value
$25-$37.95
You’ll find better build quality and additional features for regular use.
Premium
$38+
Premium models offer superior performance, advanced features, and durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the best toaster according to America’s Test Kitchen?
The best toaster according to America’s Test Kitchen is the Bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster. It features a 10-inch long slot, six shade settings, and convenient functions like reheat and cancel, making it ideal for different types of bread including sourdough.
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What are the best budget options for toasters?
For budget-conscious shoppers, the Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Extra Wide Slot Toaster is a great choice. It offers bagel and defrost settings, seven browning levels, and toast boost functionality, all at an affordable price, ensuring versatile performance without breaking the bank.
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How do I maintain my toaster for longevity?
To maintain your toaster, regularly empty the crumb tray, clean the exterior with a damp cloth, and avoid inserting utensils into the slots. This care helps prevent jams and prolongs the toaster’s lifespan while ensuring optimal performance.
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Can I toast bagels in the best toasters?
Yes, the Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Extra Wide Slot Toaster is specifically designed with a bagel setting for optimal toasting. This feature toasts the cut side of the bagel while warming the other side, delivering perfect results every time.
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What features should I look for in a toaster?
When shopping for the best toaster, consider features like slot width, browning levels, and special settings like bagel and defrost. These elements enhance versatility and ensure your toaster meets various needs, from thick artisanal bread to frozen items.
Final Verdict
For the best toaster, America’s Test Kitchen recommends the Bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster for its functionality and design. The Hamilton Beach model is an excellent budget pick, while the premium choice is also the Bella toaster in Seaglass. Each offers unique benefits for different needs.
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Best Overall
Bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster
Best overall for its versatile features.
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Best Value
Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Extra Wide Slot Toaster
Great budget option with essential features.
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Best Premium
Bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster (Seaglass)
Stylish design with excellent performance.
💡 Expert Tip
Investing in a quality toaster like the Bella models ensures consistent performance and durability. Regular maintenance will help you get the most out of your appliance. Choose based on your specific needs for optimal satisfaction.
