8 Best Toasters That Make Breakfast a Breeze
You’ll never burn a piece of toast again with these ingenious devices.
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There's no denying how much runners love carbs. Not only are they delicious, but they're also integral to fueling your body for a rigorous training schedule. One of the most delicious—and easy—ways to get in your daily carbs is with toast, and investing in a good toaster will make sure you get perfect results every time.
However, it isn't just selecting between two- and four-slot toasters that you'll have to decide upon when making a purchase: There are now options with smart screens, viewing windows, and even extra wide slots for bagel lovers. Since there are so many different options—with many different price points—it can be difficult to figure out which one will meet your breakfast needs.
To help you choose, we've gathered our favorites. Look below for buying advice and information on the standout features of our top choices.
How to Choose a New Toaster
Buying a new toaster isn't quite as intimidating as purchasing other new appliances—toasters are generally more affordable than most other appliances, and perform a limited number of tasks. However, there are some toaster features that may influence your purchasing decision. First, consider how many people you usually cook for. If you typically make more than two slices of toast in the morning, you may want to consider a toaster that has four slots instead of two, allowing you to get breakfast on the table faster.
If you like thick-cut toast or frequently toast bagels, you will want to make sure that your toaster has wide or extra wide slots. This will ensure that your bagels don't get stuck in the toaster, and that they get a nice even toast without burnt bits from being too close to the heat.
Finally, consider your budget. You can get a decent toaster for $30, but if you want some of the fancier features like lots of toasting options, a premium quality exterior, or even a touchscreen, you'll definitely have to pay more, so make sure you want and will use these features before purchasing.
How We Selected
To narrow down the best toasters on the market, we looked at expert-tested reviews from trusted sources like Good Housekeeping and Wirecutter. We then took into account price, design, footprint, and additional features. Finally, we consulted more than 43,000 reviews, written by people who’ve bought these models, to settle on these eight.
Cuisinart 2-Slice Compact Plastic Toaster
Cuisinart 2-Slice Compact Plastic Toaster
Most of us just need a basic, reliable toaster, and for $30, this one certainly delivers. While it isn't the most aesthetically pleasing design, it is relatively inconspicuous and will blend in to any kitchen. It has seven toast settings, and three buttons for reheating, defrosting, and bagels.
If you have a larger family, you could also opt for the four-slice version for $49. It also has over 18,000 customer reviews on Amazon and a 4.5/5-star average.
BLACK+DECKER 2-Slice Toaster
BLACK+DECKER 2-Slice Toaster
This toaster is super cute and also really affordable. It has a retro ’60s vibe that can add a pop of style and color to any kitchen. The controls are simple, with a dial and two buttons labeled “bagel” and “frozen.” It is relatively small, so it won’t take up too much space on the counter, and it allows you to wrap the cord neatly in the base if you prefer to put it away when you’re done.
KRUPS Breakfast Set 4-Slot Toaster
KRUPS Breakfast Set 4-Slot Toaster
If you have a large family—or just really like toast—you may prefer a four-slot toaster instead of a standard two-slot model. This one is extra large and has wide slots, which are great for thick pieces of toast or bagels. There are also six browning settings and four push buttons.
This setup is also great for people who prefer different levels of toastiness, as it essentially functions as two toasters in one.
Breville Die-Cast 2-Slice Smart Toaster
Breville Die-Cast 2-Slice Smart Toaster
Breville appliances ooze luxury, and this toaster is no exception. With a solid, sleek build, this toaster is expensive, but it looks great and works even better.
According to testers at the Good Housekeeping Lab, it toasts evenly, and unlike typical toasters where you push down the toast using a lever, this one lowers your bread or bagel automatically with the press of a button.
You can even check on your toast’s progress using the “Lift and Look” button. If you think it needs a bit more time, the toaster features a convenient “A Bit More” button, as well.
DASH White Dash Clear View Toaster
DASH White Dash Clear View Toaster
If you're a person who frequently burns their toast, this toaster might be the perfect fit for you. This model has a window in which you can watch your bread toasting and see when it reaches exactly the level of brownness that you want. It can fit up to two pieces of bread side by side, or one long piece. There are four color options, and seven toasting levels, and despite being long, it is thinner than most toasters, which can save you some countertop space.
Smeg 2-Slice Toaster
Smeg 2-Slice Toaster
When it comes to high-end retro style, Smeg's stylish designs never disappoint. This toaster is beautifully designed, with a simple but sleek exterior that comes in 11 different colors. It has a simple toasting system with a dial and two buttons. It also is a bit smaller than a standard toaster, giving you a bit more counter space. However, it is also one of the pricier toasters on our list, at $180.
Revolution InstaGLO Matte Black Toaster
Revolution InstaGLO Matte Black Toaster
If you're obsessed with your smart devices, you can't not get a smart toaster. This toaster is on the pricier side, but it has a touchscreen control panel that ensures you get the perfect toast every time. First, you choose what you're toasting (bread, english muffin, bagel, etc.); whether it is fresh, frozen, or being reheated; and the level of toastiness you desire.
The toast automatically lowers and lifts when done. You can even adjust the screen's brightness, and it automatically displays the time and date.
Hamilton Beach Extra-Wide Slot Toaster
Hamilton Beach Extra-Wide Slot Toaster
Bagel lovers rejoice: This affordable toaster was made for you. It was designed with extra-wide slots, which means even the thickest bagels won't get stuck. It has a place to wind up the cord on the back when not in use, and it is super easy to use, since it has just a single dial and no additional buttons. This toaster is a great option for people living in small spaces or on a tight budget, thanks to its wallet-friendly price and small footprint.
Before joining Runner's World, Gabrielle Hondorp spent 6 years in running retail (she has tested top gear from shoes, to watches, to rain jackets which has expanded her expertise—and her closets); she specializes in health and wellness, and is an expert on running gear from head-to-toe. Gabi began her journalism career as a Digital Editorial Fellow for Runner’s World and Bicycling Magazine, and has since advanced to a Runner's World Editor specializing in commerce. She has a double degree in English and Media and Communication from Muhlenberg College where she also ran cross country and track.
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