If you've found yourself here, then you know that all toasters are not made the same. Some cheaper models are ideal for occasional toasting of plain ole bread, while others need to be a reliable kitchen workhorse, popping out breakfasts every morning for an entire family that's on the go. Good news for you: no matter your toaster needs, this list will surely have the perfect pick for you.
All nine of these toasters are top in their class for one reason or another. Whether it's the best 4-slice toaster, one with a variety of functions, or something that is functional but looks pretty great on your counter, too, this list covers the best of the best when it comes to toasters.
But before you dig in, consider a few things you might be looking for in a new toaster. Are you feeding a large group? A toaster with 4 slots is probably best, and, luckily, many come with both 2 and 4 slot options. Will you be putting the toaster away after every use or leaving it permanently on the countertop? If you're leaving it out, you may want to consider something that fits in with your kitchen's style. Do you need just the basics or would you like additional capabilities, like a convection oven or special slot adjustments for artisan style bread? While there's plenty to consider, we're sure one of these will be your perfect fit!
At just $45, this sleek and reliable toaster offers nine heat settings and includes a bagel, toast, and defrost setting. It also features a toast lift that allows users to check the doneness of their food throughout toasting. Oh, and did we mention how sleek this toaster is? White with rose gold and silver finishes, its aesthetic rivals that of much more expensive brands.
This 4-slice toaster boasts seven shade settings in addition to bagel, defrost, and reheat options. A digital settings display makes for easy readability, and the toast slots self-adjust to your food's thickness. With two separate levers, you have the option of making 2 or 4 slices. All of this for under $65? Count us in.
If you're looking for a toaster that does it all, look no further than this Hamilton Beach toaster/convection oven combo. The top slot functions as a toaster while the door reveals a spacious convection oven. Simply slide the switch at the top to select which function you need. The toaster only comes with 4 shade settings, but for under $100, this combo is hard to beat.
We might be a tad obsessed with the chic design of Café's toaster. Featuring a clean white base and sleek gold trim, this toaster has barely visible buttons for the settings and a single lever. It's not just pretty—with 8 shade settings and 4 functions, including a quick-toast feature not seen on many other models, this toaster combines beauty and brains.
This 2-slice toaster from Cuisinart includes settings for white, grain, bagel, sweet, waffles, English muffin, and gluten-free foods, making it the perfect option for a family with plenty of needs. Heat Mom's English muffin and the little one's waffle at the same time! It doesn't get easier than that. It also includes single-slice and defrost options. For hectic mornings, utilize the MemorySet function, which includes the ability to memorize up to 4 different settings.
Coming in at just over $20, Amazon Basic's toaster provides just that: the basics. But, with 6 shade settings and extra-wide slots for bagels and artisan breads, it's still quite the bang for your buck.
Ultra-slim with a pop-out serving tray, this two-slice toaster is perfect for tiny kitchens and apartment living. Just because it's compact doesn't mean it lacks function, though. This toaster includes 7 shade settings and regular, bagel, and gluten-free options.
Who knew you could love the look of a toaster? But here we are. This Smeg toaster is the definition of beauty, with a minimalist approach to a retro aesthetic and that classic Smeg logo on the side. It comes in 12 color options and includes 6 shade settings and reheat, defrost, and bagel functions.
If you're going to shell out over $275 on a toaster, it better be this one. Revolution's High Speed Smart Toaster comes with a color touch screen where you can pick the type of bread you're toasting, the desired shade, and whether it's fresh, frozen, or needing to be reheated.