The Best Toasters

Finding a great toaster these days can feel like a revolving door of disappointment. One model might start strong, giving you golden, even slices with crisp edges and perfect consistency, only to fade after a few months of daily use. Whether you spend $30 or $150, the truth is that most modern toasters aren’t built to last like the sturdy chrome units of decades past.

Still, there are reliable options out there that deliver consistent results without breaking the bank. After testing countless models, we’ve found a few that stand out for their toasting performance, build quality, and ease of use, offering the right mix of reliability and value for your morning routine.

Cuisinart CPT-142 Toaster

Best Overall Option

A dependable 4-slice toaster that delivers even browning, simple controls, and a compact design perfect for busy kitchens.

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The Cuisinart CPT-142 4-Slice Compact Plastic Toaster delivers impressive results at an affordable price. It consistently browns bread, bagels, and waffles better than most models in its price range. The build quality is above average for an inexpensive toaster, with controls that feel sturdy and responsive rather than loose or flimsy. Its simple layout and reliable performance make it a practical choice for families or anyone who wants to toast multiple items at once.

In everyday use, the CPT-142 produces even, consistent results from top to bottom and slot to slot. The browning dial is precise, so when you set it to a medium level, you can expect a perfectly golden slice of toast. When using all four slots at once, it may toast slightly lighter, but turning the dial up a notch easily balances the results. It also works quickly, producing fully toasted bread in just over a minute, faster than many competitors.

Beyond standard toast, this model performs well with bagels and frozen items. The bagel setting extends the toasting time enough to crisp the cut side without burning the exterior, and the defrost mode yields frozen waffles that are crisp on the outside and tender inside. The wide, deep slots accommodate thicker breads and bagels without forcing them down, and the high-lift lever makes retrieving smaller items, like English muffins, much safer and easier.

The toaster’s exterior stays cool to the touch even after multiple rounds of toasting, which adds an extra layer of safety. Although the four-slice version is wider than its two-slice counterpart, it still has a relatively compact footprint for a toaster of its capacity. It also includes a limited three-year warranty, which is unusually long for a budget-friendly appliance.

There are a few minor drawbacks. The printed labels on the buttons may fade over time, and the plastic levers aren’t as durable as metal ones. Occasionally, you might notice slightly paler edges on your toast, but this is common across many toasters in this range. Overall, the CPT-142 remains one of the most reliable and consistent toasters available for the price, offering dependable performance without unnecessary features or cost.

Breville BTA720XL Bit More Toaster

Best Upgrade Option

A sleek stainless steel toaster with precise browning control, quick heating, and a convenient 'A Bit More' button for perfect results.

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The Breville BTA720XL Bit More Toaster is a premium two-slice model that combines polished design with excellent toasting performance. Its stainless steel body gives it a timeless appearance that fits seamlessly into most kitchens, and its solid construction feels more substantial than many competitors in its price range. The controls are clearly labeled, easy to use, and give the impression of long-term durability.

What sets this toaster apart is its precision. It consistently delivers evenly browned toast from top to bottom with no pale edges, producing professional-looking results every time. Its advanced bagel mode focuses heat on the inner elements to crisp the cut side while gently warming the exterior, resulting in a perfect balance of texture. A small icon printed on the top also helps users correctly position their bagels, a thoughtful design touch that improves everyday usability.

The Breville stays cool to the touch, even during repeated use, which is uncommon among metal-bodied toasters. Two of its signature features, Lift & Look and A Bit More, make it particularly convenient. The Lift & Look lever lets you check on your toast mid-cycle without stopping the heating process, while the A Bit More button adds an extra burst of heat for those who prefer a slightly darker slice. Together, these features make fine-tuning your toast quick and intuitive.

Despite its strengths, the Breville is not without flaws. Its complex circuitry and LED features add to both its cost and potential maintenance risks. The heating elements are less corrosion-resistant than some lower-priced models, and the included warranty lasts only one year. While these are minor concerns for most users, they are worth noting for those prioritizing long-term durability.

Overall, the Breville BTA720XL Bit More Toaster stands out for its precise toasting performance, smart features, and sleek design. It’s a great option for anyone who values consistent results and appreciates small details that make daily use easier. Although it costs more than basic models, the convenience and craftsmanship justify the investment for those seeking a higher-end kitchen appliance.

A reliable toaster might not seem like a big deal until you start your day with unevenly browned bread or burnt bagels. The truth is that most modern toasters are built for convenience rather than longevity, which makes choosing one that performs consistently all the more important. The good news is that a few models still manage to strike a balance between quality, usability, and price, proving that you don’t have to overspend to get great toast.

Ultimately, the right toaster is the one that fits your habits and your kitchen. Whether you prioritize compact size, precise browning, or a sleek look that complements your countertop, a dependable toaster should make mornings smoother and a little more enjoyable. After all, breakfast may be simple, but it deserves the same attention to detail as any other part of your home routine.