The 16 Basic Toaster 2023

Best Overall: Amazon Basics 2 Slice, Extra-Wide Slot Toaster with 6 Shade Settings

The Amazon Basics 2 Slice, Extra-Wide Slot Toaster is a reliable and convenient option for toasting bread, bagels, and thicker slices. With its sleek design and black & silver color combination, it will complement any kitchen decor.

One of the standout features of this toaster is the extra-wide slots, which can accommodate bagels and thicker slices of bread. Each slot measures 5-1/4 inches long by 1-1/4 inches wide, providing ample space for various types of bread.

The toaster offers 6 shade settings, allowing you to customize the toasting level according to your preferences. Whether you prefer lightly toasted or well-done slices, this toaster has you covered.

Additionally, this toaster includes useful functions such as the bagel setting, which toasts the cut side of the bagel while keeping the outer side warm. It also features a frozen setting for defrosting bread and a cancel function to end the toasting session at any time.

For added convenience, the toaster comes with an extra-lift lever, which allows you to safely remove smaller pieces of toast without burning your fingers. The 37-inch power cord can be routed out the back, and there is a cord wrap for easy storage. The removable crumb tray, located in the back, makes cleaning a breeze.

The illuminated buttons indicate the selected settings, ensuring ease of use and visibility.

In conclusion, the Amazon Basics 2 Slice, Extra-Wide Slot Toaster is a reliable and versatile toaster that offers multiple shade settings, extra-wide slots, and convenient features. With its stylish design and user-friendly functionality, it is a great addition to any kitchen.

Best Budget: Elite Gourmet ECT-1027 Cool Touch Toaster, 7 Toast Settings Cancel Functions

The Elite Gourmet ECT-1027 Cool Touch Toaster is a versatile and convenient toaster that offers a range of features to enhance your toasting experience. With its compact size, lightweight design, and cool touch exterior, it is a practical choice for various settings, including small apartments, office kitchens, college dorms, or RVs.

One of the standout features of this toaster is its extra-wide 1.5" slots, which can accommodate a variety of breakfast items and snacks. Whether you're toasting bagels, waffles, specialty breads, or puff pastry baked snacks, this toaster has you covered.

The toaster offers 7 browning levels, allowing you to achieve your desired level of toasting. The automatic self-centering guides ensure even distribution of heat, resulting in perfectly browned toast every time.

With its easy-to-use push-down toasting lever and non-slip feet, this toaster provides convenience and stability during use. The swing-out crumb tray is easily accessible and has a wipe-away surface for quick and hassle-free cleaning.

Another notable feature is the cancel function, which allows you to easily stop the toasting cycle in the middle by adjusting the knob. This feature reduces the risk of damage and provides flexibility in the toasting process.

The Elite Gourmet ECT-1027 Cool Touch Toaster is not only a practical kitchen appliance but also makes for a great gift. Its compact size, ease of use, and versatile functionality make it a perfect choice for housewarmings or weddings. Additionally, its lightweight design makes it portable and easy to carry.

In conclusion, the Elite Gourmet ECT-1027 Cool Touch Toaster offers convenience, versatility, and safety features, making it a reliable choice for toasting various breakfast items and snacks. With its compact size, easy operation, and cool touch exterior, it is a practical addition to any kitchen or a thoughtful gift for loved ones.

Best Value: Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Extra Wide Slot Toaster with Bagel & Defrost Settings

The Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Extra Wide Slot Toaster is a versatile and efficient toaster that offers a range of features to enhance your toasting experience. With its sleek black and stainless steel design, it adds a modern touch to any kitchen decor.

One of the standout features of this toaster is its extra-wide slots, which can accommodate thick slices of artisan bread, Texas toast, bagels, and various breakfast favorites. Whether you're craving a crispy bagel or a hearty slice of bread, this toaster can handle it all.

The bagel and defrost settings are designed to provide optimal toasting results. The bagel setting toasts the cut side of the bagel while warming the outside, ensuring a deliciously crispy texture. The defrost setting thaws and then toasts waffles or pancakes, making it convenient for those who enjoy frozen breakfast items.

The high-lift toast boost feature is particularly useful for smaller bread items, such as English muffins. It lifts the food a little higher than usual when done, making it easier to retrieve without burning your fingers.

The adjustable shade selector allows you to customize the toasting level according to your preference. Whether you like your toast lightly toasted or perfectly golden, this toaster can deliver consistent results batch after batch.

Cleaning the toaster is hassle-free, thanks to the easy-to-remove crumb tray. Simply slide it out, empty the crumbs, and clean it for a fresh and tidy toaster.

In conclusion, the Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Extra Wide Slot Toaster with Bagel & Defrost Settings offers versatility, convenience, and style. With its extra-wide slots, bagel and defrost settings, high-lift toast boost, adjustable shade selector, and easy-to-clean crumb tray, it provides a delightful toasting experience. Whether you're toasting bread, bagels, or frozen items, this toaster is a reliable and efficient choice for any kitchen.

Editor's Choise: Cuisinart CPT-122BK 2-Slice Compact Plastic Toaster

The Cuisinart CPT-122BK 2-Slice Compact Plastic Toaster is a functional and efficient toaster that offers must-have features in a compact design. Made of durable plastic, this toaster is designed to fit comfortably on your countertops without taking up too much space.

With its 2 1.5-inch wide toasting slots, this toaster can accommodate a wide variety of bread sizes, making it versatile for your toasting needs. Whether you're toasting bagels, regular bread slices, or other breakfast items, this toaster can handle them all.

The toaster comes with a 7-setting shade dial, giving you control over the toasting shade. Whether you prefer a light, golden brown or a darker, crispier toast, you can easily adjust the settings to achieve your desired level of toasting.

Cleaning up is a breeze, thanks to the slide-out crumb tray. Simply remove the tray, dispose of the crumbs, and clean it for a fresh and tidy toaster.

In terms of performance, this toaster delivers consistent toasting results. Whether you're craving a thick toasted bagel, toaster pastries, or even thin sliced bread for a unique twist on croutons, the wide slots and high-lift carriage make it easy to toast every time.

Furthermore, the Cuisinart CPT-122BK comes with a limited 3-year warranty, providing peace of mind and assurance of its quality. It is also worth noting that this toaster is BPA free, ensuring safe usage.

In conclusion, the Cuisinart CPT-122BK 2-Slice Compact Plastic Toaster offers functionality, versatility, and ease of use. With its compact size, wide toasting slots, adjustable shade settings, and convenient crumb tray, it is a reliable choice for toasting various types of bread. Whether you're enjoying a quick breakfast or preparing snacks, this toaster can deliver consistent and satisfying results.

When selecting the finest basic toaster, there are a number of factors to consider. Let's examine these characteristics in detail:

Quantity of Slots
Consider the number of spaces you need based on the size of your household and the number of breakfast guests you typically serve. If you have a large family or frequently host visitors, it will be more convenient to use a toaster with four slots.

Toasting Capabilities
Standard toasters typically include additional toasted functions, including defrosting, reheating, and bagel settings. These features provide versatility and accommodate various preferences. Make sure to choose a toaster with the necessary features.

Browning Management
The ability to regulate the level of toast browning is essential. Look for a toaster with multiple browning settings, ranging from light golden to dark brown, so you can accomplish the desired shade of toast.

Persistence and Construction
Purchasing a toaster manufactured from premium materials ensures its durability and longevity. Toasters made of stainless steel are frequently preferred due to their durability and resistance to corrosion and stains.

Cleaning Convenience
The process of cleaning your toaster should be simple. With removable crumb receptacles and accessible surfaces, cleaning is a breeze. Choose a toaster with these features to save time and energy.

Can cold bread be toasted in a standard toaster?

Yes, many standard toasters include a defrosting feature that allows you to toast frozen bread slices without first defrosting them.

How long does it take for a basic toaster to prepare bread?

The toasting time varies based on the intended level of browning and the bread's thickness. On average, toasting bread requires between 1 and 2 minutes.

Can bagels be toasted in a standard toaster?

Certainly! The bagel setting on the majority of standard toasters is designed to make bagels crisp on the sliced side and warm on the outside.

Are conventional toasters energy-efficient?

Yes, standard toasters are typically energy-efficient because of their simple design and rapid toasting process. They utilize significantly less electricity than larger kitchen appliances.

Can artisan bread or thick portions be toasted in a standard toaster?

While standard toasters can accommodate standard-sized bread slices, artisan bread and dense slices may not fit. Before purchasing a toaster, it is essential to verify the size of the compartments.

Investing in the best basic toaster can greatly enhance your breakfast experience. By considering important features such as the number of slots, toasting functions, browning control, durability, and ease of cleaning, you can make an informed decision that suits your needs and preferences. Remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions for optimal usage and maintenance.