Navigating the landscape of modern kitchen appliances, particularly concerning toasting technology, requires understanding the nuances of heating elements, browning consistency, and variable shade control. When exploring the market for the best toaster 2017, discerning consumers seek out models that go beyond basic functionality. The pursuit of the ideal breakfast companion involves assessing crucial features like crumb tray accessibility, defrost settings, and even bagel-specific options.
Our curated selection of the best toaster 2017 aims to demystify the choices, highlighting units that excel in performance, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Prepare to unlock a new level of toasting perfection as we reveal the ultimate contenders in this essential kitchen category.
Find Your Perfect Toast!
1. BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster, Extra Wide Slots, 7 Shade Settings, 1400
Achieve perfectly toasted bread, bagels, and more with the BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster. Designed for versatility and everyday convenience, this appliance brings consistent browning and easy handling to your kitchen counter.
This essential kitchen appliance features accommodating extra-wide slots, ideal for thick-cut bread and artisan loaves. With a dedicated bagel function for one-sided crisping, a convenient extra-lift lever for smaller items, and a precise 7-shade selector, it ensures satisfaction for every preference. The 1400-watt power ensures quick and efficient toasting, making busy mornings smoother.
The 1400-watt power ensures quick and efficient toasting, making busy mornings smoother.
Pros
- Accommodates various bread types, including thick-cut slices, bagels, and waffles, thanks to its generous extra-wide toasting slots with self-centering guides for even results.
- Offers enhanced control with a dedicated Bagel function that crisps the cut side, plus handy Frozen and Cancel buttons for precise operation.
- Easily retrieve smaller items like English muffins without burning fingers, courtesy of the elevated Extra Lift Lever.
- Maintains a clean kitchen environment with a slide-out crumb tray that collects debris for simple disposal and odor reduction.
- Provides extensive customization with a clear 7-level shade selector dial, allowing users to pinpoint their preferred level of golden-brown crispness.
Cons
- The lever does not lock down unless the toaster is plugged in, which could be a minor inconvenience for some users during initial setup or cleaning.
For those seeking a reliable and feature-rich 4-slice toaster, this BLACK+DECKER model excels in versatility and user-friendly design. Its ability to handle diverse bread thicknesses and offer specific functions like the bagel setting makes it a standout choice for busy households and toast aficionados alike.
2. bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster, Fits-anywhere™ Kitchenware, 6 Setting Shade
Discover the ultimate blend of form and function with the bella 2-Slice Slim Toaster. Its remarkably slim design makes it a space-saving marvel for any kitchen, while the generous long slot offers unparalleled toasting versatility for everything from thin slices to thick artisan breads.
Enjoy perfectly browned toast every time, tailored precisely to your liking.
This compact kitchen essential elevates your breakfast routine with its sleek aesthetic and practical features. The extra-wide, 10-inch slot comfortably fits bagels, baguettes, and even two slices side-by-side.
Easy cleanup is guaranteed thanks to the removable crumb tray, and the integrated cord wrap maintains a clutter-free countertop, making it a smart appliance choice for modern living.
Pros
- Space-Saving Slim Design: At just 3.58″ wide, this toaster fits easily on narrow countertops, making it ideal for smaller kitchens or those seeking a minimalist aesthetic.
- Versatile Long Slot: The 10-inch extra-wide slot accommodates a variety of bread types and thicknesses, including bagels, artisanal loaves, and even two regular slices side-by-side, eliminating the need for cutting.
- Customizable Toasting: Six shade settings allow for precise control over your toast’s browning level, ensuring your bread is perfectly toasted to your preference, from light golden to deep brown.
- Effortless Cleaning and Storage: The slide-out crumb tray simplifies cleanup, while the cord wrap feature helps keep your kitchen counter tidy and organized.
- High-Lift Lever for Safety: Easily retrieve smaller items like English muffins without burning your fingers, adding an extra layer of convenience and safety to your toasting experience.
Cons
- While it offers a long slot, the width might not accommodate extremely large-sized bagels or very thick gourmet breads in pairs.
The bella 2-Slice Slim Toaster is an excellent choice for anyone prioritizing countertop space without sacrificing toasting functionality. Its thoughtful design, including the versatile long slot and easy cleaning features, makes it a practical and stylish addition to any home kitchen. Upgrade your breakfast with effortless style and perfect toast.
Upgrade your breakfast with effortless style and perfect toast.
3. Cuisinart 4 Slice Compact Stainless Steel Toaster with Extra-Wide Slots
Elevate your breakfast routine with the Cuisinart 4 Slice Compact Stainless Steel Toaster. This stylish and functional appliance is designed for modern kitchens, offering a perfect toast every time for a variety of bread types. Its compact build ensures it won’t take up valuable counter space while delivering exceptional toasting performance.
Experience unparalleled toasting precision with dual 6-setting browning dials and dedicated reheat, defrost, and bagel functions, complete with LED indicators. The spacious
Cleanup is a breeze thanks to the convenient slide-out crumb tray and integrated cord wrap.
Pros
- Versatile toasting options with individual browning controls for each pair of slots, perfect for households with different preferences.
- Accommodates a variety of breads and pastries, including thicker slices, bagels, and frozen items, thanks to its extra-wide 1.5-inch slots.
- User-friendly operation with clearly marked reheat, defrost, and bagel buttons featuring LED indicators for quick function selection.
- Easy maintenance with a removable crumb tray for effortless cleaning and a built-in cord wrap for tidy storage.
- Durable and stylish stainless steel construction enhances kitchen aesthetics and ensures long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Some users might find the compact design slightly less intuitive for very large or tall bread slices when using the extra-lift carriage.
For those seeking a reliable and efficient 4-slice toaster, the Cuisinart SPT-480 offers a blend of advanced features and user-friendly design. It’s an ideal choice for families or individuals who appreciate consistent results and a touch of elegance on their kitchen counter, simplifying morning meal preparation.
4. Elite Gourmet ECT-3100 4-Slice Long Slot Toaster | Extra Wide
Discover the Elite Gourmet ECT-3100 4-Slice Long Slot Toaster, your ultimate solution for versatile toasting needs. Its extra-wide and long slots effortlessly accommodate everything from thick sourdough slices to full bagel halves, ensuring perfect results every time for all your favorite breakfast staples.
This advanced 4-slice toaster boasts six browning settings for precise control, from lightly warmed to deeply toasted perfection. Functionality is amplified with dedicated Reheat, Defrost, and Cancel options, alongside a convenient built-in warming rack for pastries, making it a truly multifaceted kitchen appliance.
Its 1300-watt power ensures efficient toasting.
Pros
- Generously sized long slots (10″ x 1.5″) are perfect for thick artisan bread, sourdough loaves, large bagels, and Texas toast, fitting items that standard toasters often can’t.
- Six distinct browning levels offer granular control, catering to diverse preferences from a light golden hue to a dark, satisfying crunch.
- Integrated warming rack allows for simultaneous heating of croissants, rolls, or buns, ensuring all breakfast items are ready at once.
- Specialized Reheat and Defrost functions provide added convenience, perfect for bringing chilled or previously toasted items back to ideal temperature without overcooking.
- Thoughtful design elements like cord storage, easily removable crumb trays, and a high-lift lever enhance user experience and kitchen tidiness.
Cons
- For optimal, even browning, toasting two slices per slot oriented across from each other is recommended, which might be a minor consideration for single-slice users.
The Elite Gourmet ECT-3100 is an exceptional choice for households that enjoy a variety of bread types and breakfast pastries. Its ability to handle oversized items, coupled with its multiple functions, makes it a superior kitchen companion for achieving consistently delicious toast and warm accompaniments.
5. GE 2 Slice Stainless Steel Toaster, Extra Wide Slots for
Achieve your perfect toast every morning with the GE 2 Slice Stainless Steel Toaster. Designed for modern kitchens, its sleek stainless steel finish complements any countertop, while advanced features ensure consistent results for all your browning needs.
Enjoy versatility and ease of use with this essential kitchen appliance.
This compact yet powerful 2-slice toaster boasts extra-wide slots (38 x 50) ready to embrace bagels, artisanal bread, and pastries.
50) ready to embrace bagels, artisanal bread, and pastries. With 7 distinct shade settings, from lightly golden to deeply toasted, everyone finds their ideal crispness. The efficient 850-watt heating system guarantees even browning on every slice, making breakfast preparation effortless.
Pros
- Customizable Toasting: Tailor your toast precisely with 7 shade settings, ensuring your preferred level of golden-brown crispiness or light warmth with every use.
- Versatile Slot Design: The generous 1.38″ x 5.50″ extra-wide toaster slots easily accommodate thicker items like bagels, artisan bread loaves, and pastries, offering superior flexibility for breakfast variety.
- Consistent Browning Performance: Experience uniform toasting thanks to the well-designed heating elements that deliver even heat distribution across both slices, eliminating burnt edges or pale centers.
- Effortless Cleaning: Maintain a tidy kitchen with the convenient, slide-out crumb tray, making it simple to empty accumulated crumbs and keep your toaster looking its best.
Cons
- While perfect for standard bread sizes, the 2-slice capacity might be limiting for larger households needing to toast multiple items simultaneously.
The GE 2 Slice Stainless Steel Toaster is an excellent choice for individuals or small families seeking reliable performance and versatile toasting options. Its elegant design and user-friendly features make it a standout addition to any contemporary kitchen, simplifying your morning routine without compromising on taste or appearance.
6. BLACK+DECKER 2-Slice Toaster, Extra Wide Slots for Bagels & Thick
Achieve your perfect slice every time with the BLACK+DECKER 2-Slice Toaster. Its extra-wide slots and customizable browning control make it ideal for everything from bagels to artisan bread, ensuring a delightful breakfast or snack with minimal fuss. Experience consistent, fast toasting for your busy mornings.
Designed for everyday convenience, this compact countertop appliance boasts intuitive controls and effortless cleanup. The 6 shade settings and cancel function offer mastery over your toast, while the removable crumb tray simplifies maintenance.
Enjoy reliable performance and even browning, making it a practical addition to any kitchen.
Pros
- Versatile Toasting for Various Breads: The extra-wide toasting slots easily accommodate thick-cut bread, bagels, waffles, and English muffins, ensuring a perfect fit and even toasting for a variety of breakfast favorites.
- Customizable Browning Levels: With 6 adjustable shade settings, you can precisely control the crispness and color of your toast, from a light golden hue to a deep, crunchy brown.
- Efficient and Even Heating: Experience consistent, rapid toasting thanks to the efficient heating elements, which minimize burnt edges and uneven spots, delivering reliably delicious results.
- Space-Saving and Tidy Design: Its compact footprint fits neatly on your kitchen counter, while the integrated, removable slide-out crumb tray makes cleaning up after toasting exceptionally easy and mess-free.
- Convenient Operation: The built-in cancel function allows you to stop the toasting cycle at any moment, providing added control and peace of mind during operation.
Cons
- The 850-wattage, while sufficient for standard toasting, might not offer the same rapid browning speed as higher-wattage models for very thick items.
The BLACK+DECKER 2-Slice Toaster is a practical and user-friendly solution for everyday toasting needs. Its generous slots and adjustable browning make it a versatile choice for households seeking consistently good toast, bagels, and more, all within a compact and easy-to-maintain design.
7. Cuisinart Core Collection 2-Slice Toaster | Extra-Long Slots for Artisan
Achieve perfectly toasted bread every time with the Cuisinart Core Collection 2-Slice Toaster. Its spacious, extra-long slots are engineered to accommodate everything from thick artisan sourdough to delicate brioche, ensuring uniform browning for all your favorite breads.
This versatile toaster boasts advanced features like High-Lift QuickView and a dedicated True Bagel setting for optimal toasting. With seven browning settings and convenient push-button controls for Bagel, Defrost, Single Slice, and Cancel functions, achieving your desired crunch is effortless.
Pros
- Accommodates larger bread slices and artisan loaves with 40% larger, extra-long slots, solving the problem of standard toasters not fitting thicker or wider bread types.
- Delivers perfectly toasted bagels with its True Bagel setting, toasting the cut side while gently warming the outside.
- Allows for convenient mid-cycle toast checks without interrupting the toasting process thanks to the High-Lift QuickView feature.
- Ensures even toasting for single slices with the specialized One-Slice Technology, achieving balanced color on both sides.
- Offers flexible toasting customization with seven shade settings and specific functions for Bagel, Defrost, Single Slice, and Cancel, plus a useful +30 Seconds option for that perfect crisp.
- Maintains a clean countertop with a removable crumb tray and integrated cord storage for a tidy kitchen aesthetic.
- Features a compact, stylish design that complements modern kitchens and coordinates with other Cuisinart Core Collection appliances.
Cons
- The 2-slice capacity might be limiting for larger families or when toasting multiple items simultaneously.
The Cuisinart Core Collection 2-Slice Toaster is an excellent choice for those who appreciate versatility and consistency in their morning toast. Its thoughtful design, accommodating wider bread slices and offering precise control over browning, makes it a standout appliance for artisanal bread enthusiasts and everyday users alike.
8. Proctor Silex 2-Slice Toaster with Extra Wide Slots for Bagels,
Elevate your breakfast routine with the Proctor Silex 2-Slice Toaster, your go-to appliance for perfectly toasted bread, bagels, and more. Designed with convenience and versatility in mind, this compact toaster ensures delicious results every morning, fitting seamlessly into any kitchen countertop.
Experience superior toasting performance with extra-wide slots accommodating thicker slices and bagels with ease. The intuitive design includes a Toast Boost feature for effortless retrieval of smaller items and a convenient pullout crumb tray for simple cleanup, making this an essential addition to your kitchen appliances.
Pros
- Accommodates Thicker Items: Extra-wide slots effortlessly toast bagels, artisan bread slices, and other thicker baked goods that standard toasters struggle with.
- Easy Retrieval of Small Items: The innovative Toast Boost function elevates smaller items like English muffins and pop-tarts, preventing burnt fingers and ensuring easy access.
- Hassle-Free Cleanup: A removable crumb tray slides out from the bottom, simplifying the cleaning process and keeping your countertops free from fallen crumbs.
- Customizable Toasting: With 7 distinct browning settings and a cancel function, you have complete control to achieve your ideal shade of golden-brown toast.
- Compact and Tidy Storage: A built-in cord wrap neatly stores the power cord, making this 2-slice toaster easy to tuck away when not in use.
- Safety Assurance: Automatic shutoff provides peace of mind by ending the toasting cycle even if toast becomes jammed.
Cons
- Basic Aesthetics: While functional, the design may be considered utilitarian compared to more premium-priced toasters with advanced finishes.
The Proctor Silex 2-Slice Toaster is an excellent choice for individuals and families seeking a reliable and user-friendly appliance for everyday toasting needs. Its thoughtful features, especially the wide slots and manageable crumb collection, make it a practical and beginner-friendly countertop essential for achieving consistently delicious toast.
9. Cuisinart CPT-160 Metal Classic 2-Slice Toaster, Brushed Stainless
Elevate your morning routine with the Cuisinart CPT-160 Metal Classic 2-Slice Toaster. Its brushed stainless steel finish adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen, while robust functionality ensures perfect toast, bagels, and more, every time. This appliance is designed for simplicity and superior performance.
This appliance is designed for simplicity and superior performance.
This compact countertop appliance boasts two 5-inch wide toasting slots, accommodating a variety of bread types and thicknesses.
The extra-lift carriage makes retrieving smaller items a breeze.
Pros
- Versatile Toasting Options: Easily toast bagels to perfection with the dedicated bagel setting, or use the reheat and defrost functions for added convenience. The 6-shade control ensures your toast is precisely how you like it.
- Spacious Slots for Various Breads: The generous 1.5-inch wide toasting slots are perfect for everything from thin slices of sourdough to thick-cut artisan bread, ensuring even toasting for diverse baked goods.
- User-Friendly Design & Cleanup: An extra-lift carriage lever simplifies the removal of smaller toast slices and bagels. The convenient slide-out crumb tray makes cleaning remarkably easy.
- Durable and Stylish Construction: Crafted with a classic brushed stainless steel exterior, this toaster is not only a functional kitchen tool but also an attractive addition to your countertop, built for longevity.
- BPA-Free Components: Enjoy peace of mind knowing that the materials used in this Cuisinart toaster are BPA-free, prioritizing your health.
Cons
- Limited Capacity: With only two slots, it may not be ideal for larger families or entertaining multiple guests simultaneously.
The Cuisinart CPT-160 Metal Classic 2-Slice Toaster offers a blend of style, functionality, and ease of use for everyday toasting needs. Its reliable performance and thoughtful features make it a superb choice for anyone seeking a dependable and aesthetically pleasing kitchen companion for their breakfast essentials.
10. Mueller UltraToast Stainless Steel Toaster 4 Slice – Extra-Wide 1.6″
Revolutionize your mornings with the Mueller UltraToast 4-Slice Toaster, designed for the modern family’s diverse breakfast needs. Its spacious slots and intelligent browning technology deliver perfectly toasted results from artisan bread to oversized bagels every time.
Engineered with everyday use in mind, this stainless steel appliance boasts extra-wide 6 self-centering slots, accommodating everything from thick sourdough to English muffins and bagels. Enjoy consistent, even browning with six adjustable settings and memory recall, ensuring your toast dreams come true, even for frozen favorites like waffles and pastries.
Enjoy consistent, even browning with six adjustable settings and memory recall, ensuring your toast dreams come true, even for frozen favorites like waffles and pastries.
Pros
- Accommodates thick breads and large bagels easily with 1.6-inch extra-wide, self-centering slots.
- Delivers restaurant-quality results for frozen items like waffles and pastries due to intelligent heating technology.
- Intuitive operation with modern capacitive touch controls, LED display, and memory recall for personalized settings.
- Effortless cleanup thanks to a slide-out removable crumb tray and a fingerprint-resistant brushed stainless steel exterior.
Cons
- Performance is optimized when the toaster is fully loaded, meaning single-slice toasting might produce slightly less uniform results compared to toasting multiple slices.
The Mueller UltraToast is an ideal countertop companion for families and individuals seeking a versatile and reliable toasting experience. Its durable construction, user-friendly interface, and consistent performance make it a standout choice for achieving the perfect toast, bagel, or breakfast pastry, elevating your daily routine.
Choosing Your Ideal Toaster
Toaster capacity slot size
The number and dimensions of a toaster’s slots fundamentally dictate its utility for your daily breakfast routine and beyond.
A standard two-slice model suffices for individuals or couples, offering a compact footprint ideal for kitchens where counter space is at a premium. However, for households with multiple members or those who entertain frequently, a four-slice toaster dramatically speeds up morning preparation, catering to familial needs efficiently. Beyond sheer volume, the width of these slots is a significant consideration.
Beyond sheer volume, the width of these slots is a significant consideration. Whether you favor artisanal sourdough, thick-cut challah, or generously filled bagels, toasters with wide-mouth or extra-wide slots ensure perfectly browned results without cramming or uneven toasting, preserving the integrity of your chosen bread.
Consider your typical bread choices and the number of people you regularly serve. If your diet includes specialty breads or you often make breakfast for guests, investing in a four-slice unit with ample slot width will offer greater versatility and convenience, transforming your morning meal preparation.
Material durability
The materials and construction of your toasting appliance are paramount for ensuring its longevity and performance over time.
Investing in a unit built with durable components means it can withstand frequent use without showing premature wear, saving you from frequent replacements.
Many higher-end models boast robust stainless steel construction, offering a combination of sleek aesthetics and exceptional resilience against accidental knocks and scratches. This material also tends to retain its shine and is remarkably easy to wipe down, simplifying exterior upkeep.
While some units utilize plastic housing, these can be more susceptible to discoloration or cracking over extended periods, though they often contribute to a lighter overall device and a more budget-friendly price point. When evaluating build quality, look for solid assembly with no wobbly parts. A well-constructed toasting machine, regardless of its primary casing material, will offer consistent results and resist the effects of heat and repeated operation for years to come.
Browning control settings
The ability to precisely control how your bread transforms from soft to crisp is paramount for achieving toast perfection.
This feature dictates your user experience and the final outcome of your breakfast. Insufficient adjustment options can lead to a frustrating cycle of burnt edges and pale middles, regardless of your bread’s quality.
Conversely, a well-calibrated control system ensures uniform browning across the entire slice, every single time.
Look for models offering a spectrum of options rather than just a few pre-set levels. Variable browning dials provide granular control, allowing you to fine-tune the toasting duration. Digital displays with preset functions offer convenience, often catering to specific bread types like bagels or pastries, ensuring optimal toasting for each.
Effectively managing these settings is key to handling everything from thin slices of white bread to thicker, artisanal loaves, or even frozen waffles, guaranteeing your desired shade of golden-brown without compromise.
Convenience special features
Effortless operation and maintenance are paramount for a truly convenient toasting experience.
Features designed to streamline your morning routine significantly enhance user satisfaction. Think about the daily hustle; the ability to quickly defrost frozen bread straight from the freezer, or reheat yesterday’s toast without turning it into a charcoal briquette, transforms a simple appliance into a time-saving ally.
These functions ensure perfectly browned results regardless of the bread’s starting temperature.
Beyond basic browning, specialized settings cater to common toasting needs. A dedicated bagel function, for instance, toasts the cut side more intensely while gently warming the rounded exterior, preventing burnt edges and soggy insides. For daily upkeep, a removable crumb tray is a game-changer, making cleanup a quick and mess-free affair.
Furthermore, intelligent safety and usability innovations like autolift mechanisms that gently raise toast to a safe height, and antijam features that prevent bread from getting stuck, add layers of practicality and peace of mind, ensuring your appliance is always ready for action.
Quick Best Toaster 2017 Buying Checklist
- Slice Capacity: Ensure it fits your household’s needs, from 2-slice to 4-slice.
- Slot Width: Check for wide slots if you frequently toast bagels or artisan breads.
- Browning Control: Look for a variable browning dial for precise toast shades.
- Special Functions: Consider defrost and reheat options for added convenience.
- Ease of Cleaning: A removable crumb tray is essential for tidy upkeep.
- Build Material: Opt for durable materials like stainless steel for longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Typical Lifespan Of A Good Toaster?
A well-built toaster can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, depending on usage and build quality.
Are Wide Slot Toasters Worth The Extra Cost?
If you enjoy bagels, thick-cut bread, or pastries, wide slots significantly improve toasting evenness.
How Does A Digital Browning Control Differ From A Dial?
Digital controls often offer more precise temperature settings and presets, while dials provide a more tactile experience.
Is A Removable Crumb Tray Important?
Yes, a removable crumb tray makes cleaning much easier and prevents burnt crumbs from accumulating.
What Safety Features Should I Look For?
Look for auto shut-off functions and cool-touch exteriors for added safety during operation.
Final Words
Investing in the best toaster can transform your breakfast routine, offering perfectly browned toast every time. With versatile settings and convenient features, a quality toaster adds ease and enjoyment to your kitchen.