Ever pull out a slice of bread hoping for golden perfection, only to get a sad, pale piece or a charred crisp? We’ve all been there, and it’s why the search for a reliable toaster feels never-ending. That’s where the americas test kitchen toaster enters the scene, promising to end the breakfast guesswork with it’s rigorously tested design. It’s a appliance that comes with a serious reputation for consistency.
But does it really live up to the hype in your own kitchen? Let’s dig into the details, from bagel settings to crumb trays, to see if this is the toaster that finally delivers perfect toast, every single time you press the lever.
Product Comparison Table: 10 Best Americas Test Kitchen Toaster
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bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster, Fits-anywhere™ Kitchenware, 6 Setting…
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9.7 |
Read Review |
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bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster, Fits-anywhere™ Kitchenware, 6 Setting…
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9.5 |
Read Review |
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bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster, Fits-anywhere™ Kitchenware, 6 Setting…
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9.3 |
Read Review |
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Amazon Basics 2 Slice Toaster, With 6 Browning Settings,…
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9.0 |
Read Review |
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Elite Gourmet ECT1027B Cool Touch Toaster with 6 Temperature…
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8.8 |
Read Review |
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Elite Gourmet ECT-3100 Long Slot 4 Slice Toaster, Reheat,…
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8.6 |
Read Review |
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BLACK+DECKER 2-Slice Toaster, TR1278BD, Extra Wide Slots, 7 Shade…
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8.4 |
Read Review |
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BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster, Extra Wide Slots, 7 Shade Settings,…
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8.1 |
Read Review |
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Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Extra Wide Slot Toaster with…
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7.9 |
Read Review |
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Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Toaster with Extra-Wide Slots, Bagel…
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7.7 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 10 Americas Test Kitchen Toaster
bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster, Fits-anywhere™ Kitchenware, 6 Setting Shade Control with Reheat & Cancel Buttons, Fits sourdough, 10” Long Slot, Anti Jam & Auto Shutoff, 900 Watt, Oatmilk
The bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster is designed for kitchens where space is premium but you don’t want to compromise on performance. Its standout feature is the remarkably slim profile, measuring just over three and a half inches deep. This means it tucks neatly against the backsplash or fits on even the most crowded countertops, making it a true part of the Fits-anywhere kitchenware philosophy.
You get a full-featured appliance without it dominating your workspace, which is a huge plus for smaller apartments or busy family kitchens.
Where this toaster really shines is in its versatility. Instead of two narrow slots, it features one extra-long 10-inch slot. This smart design lets you toast two regular slices side-by-side, but its real purpose is to handle the breads that usually cause frustration.
Thick-cut sourdough, bulky bagels, artisanal baguettes, and wide Texas toast all fit comfortably without having to be sliced down or forced in. It simply takes the hassle out of toasting your favorite bakery finds. The high-lift lever is another thoughtful touch, giving you easy access to smaller items like English muffins or thin crusts so you can grab them without risking a burnt finger.
You have precise control over your results with the six-setting shade dial.
Whether you prefer a barely-there warmth or a deep, crispy finish, you can set it and forget it. The dedicated reheat function is perfect for when your toast has gone cold, warming it without further browning. And if you change your mind mid-cycle, the cancel button stops everything immediately. The toaster is powered by 900 watts for consistent, quick toasting, and it includes an auto shutoff feature for safety and peace of mind.
bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster, Fits-anywhere™ Kitchenware, 6 Setting Shade Control with Reheat & Cancel Buttons, Fits Sourdough, 10” Long Slot, Anti Jam & Auto Shutoff, 900 Watt, Surf
The bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster is designed for kitchens where space and style matter just as much as a good slice of toast. Its standout feature is the remarkably slim profile—at just over three and a half inches deep, it tucks neatly against the backsplash or fits on even the most crowded countertop. This isn’t just a toaster; it’s part of bella’s Fits-anywhere collection, meaning it’s built to integrate seamlessly into your existing kitchen setup without dominating it.
You get a full-featured appliance that leaves plenty of room for your coffee maker and everything else.
Versatility is key with this model. Instead of two narrow slots, it features one extra-wide, 10-inch long slot. This smart design lets you toast two regular slices side-by-side, but it really shines with thicker, artisanal breads. Whether you’re toasting a chunky slice of sourdough, a bagel, or a piece of Texas toast, you won’t have to force it in or precut it to fit.
The slot accomodates it all easily, promising even toasting without the dreaded uncooked center or overly dark edges. It’s a simple solution for anyone who enjoys a variety of breads.
Getting your toast exactly how you like it is straightforward. The six-setting shade control dial gives you precise command, from a gentle warm-up to a deep, crispy finish. If you get distracted (as we all do), the dedicated cancel button stops the cycle immediately.
There’s also a handy reheat function for when your toast sits just a minute too long before you’re ready to eat. Combined with the high-lift lever, which pops smaller items like English muffins up high for safe retrieval, these features give you consistent results and hassle-free operation every morning.
Practicality extends to maintenance and safety. The removable crumb tray slides out smoothly for a quick shake or rinse, helping to keep the toaster clean and prevent burnt odors.
bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster, Fits-anywhere™ Kitchenware, 6 Setting Shade Control with Reheat & Cancel Buttons, Fits Sourdough, 10” Long Slot, Anti Jam & Auto Shutoff, 900 Watt, Seaglass
The bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster is designed for kitchens where space and style matter just as much as a perfect slice of toast. Its standout feature is the incredibly slim profile—at just over three and a half inches deep, it tucks neatly against the backsplash or fits on even the most crowded countertop. This is the core idea behind the Fits-anywhere™ design: you get a full-featured appliance without it dominating your workspace.
The clean lines and Seaglass color option add a touch of modern calm to your morning routine, proving that practical doesn’t have to mean plain.
Where this toaster really shines is in its versatility. The single, extra-long 10-inch slot is a game-changer. Instead of two narrow, fixed slots, you have one wide chamber that can handle two regular slices of bread side-by-side with room to spare. This means it effortlessly accommodates thicker, artisanal breads.
Whether you’re toasting a hearty slice of sourdough, a split bagel, or a piece of crusty baguette, you won’t have to force it in or worry about it getting stuck. The anti-jam design and high-lift lever work together to make retrieval simple and safe, even for smaller items like English muffins or toaster pastries, so you can grab them without risking burnt fingers.
Getting your toast exactly how you like it is straightforward.
The six-setting shade control dial gives you a wide range, from a gentle warm-up to a deep, crispy finish. If you peek in and see it’s done sooner, the cancel button stops the cycle immediately. There’s also a dedicated reheat function, which is perfect for when your toast sits for a minute too long and needs a quick warm-through without adding more color.
Amazon Basics 2 Slice Toaster, With 6 Browning Settings, Extra Wide Slots For Bagels and Special Breads, Removable Easy-to-Clean Crumb Tray, Cancel/Defrost/Bagel Buttons, 900W, Black & Silver
The Amazon Basics 2 Slice Toaster is a straightforward and reliable appliance designed to handle your daily toasting needs without complication. It’s built with the practical features most people look for, presented in a clean black and silver finish that fits easily on any countertop.
At its core, this is a 900-watt toaster with two independent slots, allowing you to toast either one or two slices of bread at a time.
The central control is the six-position browning dial, which gives you a wide range from light to dark. This flexibility means everyone in the household can set it to their preferred shade, whether you like a gentle warm or a crisp, dark toast. The selected setting is clearly indicated by an illuminated button, so there’s no guesswork.
One of the key considerations for any toaster is what it can actually fit.
The slots here are extra-wide, measuring 1.25 inches across, which comfortably accommodates thicker artisanal breads, English muffins, and even full-sized bagels. Speaking of bagels, a dedicated Bagel button is included. When pressed, it adjusts the heating elements to only toast the cut side of your bagel, leaving the outer skin soft—a feature bagel lovers will really apreciate.
For those who keep bread in the freezer, the Frozen button adds extra time to the cycle to defrost and then toast your slice. If you need to stop the process for any reason, the Cancel button will immediately end the session.
Small details contribute to the overall usability. The lever has an extra-lift function, raising your toast or smaller items like pastries higher out of the slot for safer and easier retreival.
Elite Gourmet ECT1027B Cool Touch Toaster with 6 Temperature Settings & Extra Wide 1.25" Slots for Bagels, Waffles, Specialty Breads, Puff Pastry, Snacks, ETL Certified, 2 Slices, Black
The Elite Gourmet ECT1027B Cool Touch Toaster is designed to be a versatile and reliable countertop companion for your kitchen, dorm, or office. Its core promise is simple: consistent, easy toasting for a much wider variety of foods than your average toaster. The key to this versatility are those extra-wide 1.25-inch slots.
They comfortably accomodate thick, artisan bread slices, frozen waffles, bagels, and even delicate pastries like puff pastry snacks without the risk of them getting stuck or squished. Paired with six distinct browning levels, you have precise control, whether you prefer a lightly warmed bagel or a crispy, dark piece of sourdough. We all know a toaster’s performance hinges on even heating, and this model adresses that with its automatic self-centering guides.
As you lower the lever, these guides gently position your bread or bagel in the exact center of the slot. This ensures heat is distributed evenly from both sides, eliminating those annoying pale patches and giving you uniform browning from edge to edge every single time. The operation is straightforward, with a easy-to-use push-down lever and clearly marked control knob. Safety and convenience are thoughtfully integrated.
The exterior is designed to stay cool to the touch during operation, a crucial feature for households with curious kids or busy mornings where accidental bumps happen. Cleaning is simplified by a swing-out crumb tray; just slide it out, discard the crumbs, and wipe it clean. The toaster also has non-slip feet to keep it stable on your counter. Another handy feature is the cancel function.
Elite Gourmet ECT-3100 Long Slot 4 Slice Toaster, Reheat, 6 Toast Settings, Defrost, Cancel Functions, Built-in Warming Rack, Extra Wide Slots for Bagels & Waffles, Stainless Steel & Black
The Elite Gourmet ECT-3100 Long Slot 4 Slice Toaster is designed for households that need versatility and capacity without sacrificing control. Its core feature are the extra wide toasting slots, which move far beyond standard bread slices. You can easily accomodate thick-cut artisanal loaves, frozen waffles, whole bagels, or Texas toast without having to force them in or worry about them getting stuck.
This flexibility means it handles your entire breakfast lineup, from simple white bread to bulkier bakery items. Precision is key with the six adjustable toasting levels. Whether you prefer your toast just barely warmed with a hint of color or you like it dark and consistently crispy, you have the dialed-in control to get it right every time. This is especially useful when toasting different types of bread in the same batch, as some varieties brown faster than others.
The separate cancel button is there for when you change your mind mid-cycle, instantly stopping the process and raising the bread, a simple but often overlooked feature that adds to your control. Beyond basic toasting, the ECT-3100 includes thoughtful functions that extend its utility. The dedicated reheat warming function is perfect for refreshing toast that’s gone cold without subjecting it to another full browning cycle that could burn it.
For items that just need a gentle touch of heat, the built-in retractable warming rack pops up to warm pastries, croissants, or breakfast sandwiches while you’re toasting below. It’s a space-efficient way to get everything on the table at a consistent temperature. The defrost function takes the guesswork out of toasting frozen bread, automatically adjusting the time to ensure your frozen bagels or slices come out properly toasted instead of just warmed on the outside.
BLACK+DECKER 2-Slice Toaster, TR1278BD, Extra Wide Slots, 7 Shade Settings, 850 Watts, Frozen and Bagel Buttons
The BLACK+DECKER 2-Slice Toaster, TR1278BD, is designed to be a straightforward, reliable appliance for your morning routine or any time you need a quick, toasted snack. With 850 watts of power, it’s built for efficiency, getting your bread to that perfect level of crispness without a long wait. The core idea here is giving you control and flexibility, so you’re not stuck with a one-shade-fits-all result.
One of the main features you’ll apprecite are the Extra-Wide Toasting Slots.
They’re not just for standard bread slices. If you enjoy thicker artisanal bread, bagels, or even pastries, these slots can handle them without pinching or squishing. This means a more even toast on all surfaces, giving you that consistent crunch you’re looking for. It’s a simple design choice that makes a real difference in what you can put in it.
Finding your preferred toast darkness is easy with the 7-position Shade Selector dial.
Whether you like a light golden hue or a much darker, robust crunch, you can set it and forget it. This is great for households where everyone has a different preference; one person can have a light setting while another goes for a darker one, and the toaster remembers each time. The dial is simple to turn and clearly marked, so there’s no guesswork involved.
For specific toasting needs, the dedicated Bagel Function is a key button.
It toasts the cut side of your bagel while gently warming the outer skin, which is exactly how a proper bagel should be prepared. The same control also handles frozen items, so you can go straight from the freezer to the toaster without thawing. No more guessing on time or ending up with a cold center.
BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster, Extra Wide Slots, 7 Shade Settings, 1400 Watts, Frozen and Bagel Buttons, Toast Shade Selector, Extra Lift
The BLACK+DECKER 4-Slice Toaster, Extra Wide Slots is designed to handle the real-world variety of your kitchen, starting with its most notable feature. Those extra-wide toasting slots are a game-changer for more than just standard bread. They comfortably fit thick artisanal slices, whole bagels, frozen waffles, and even taller items like brioche when placed vertically.
The self-centering design means whatever you put in gets positioned for consistent heat contact, aiming for even browning from edge to edge without constant manual adjustment. You have significant control over your toast’s finish with the seven-position shade selector dial. It’s straightforward: turn it to choose from light to dark. A good starting point is setting 4, then you can adjust based on your preference or the type of bread you’re using.
For bagels, the dedicated Bagel button is key—it toasts the cut side while gently warming the outer crust. Remember, for both the Bagel and Frozen functions, you need to press the lever down first to activate the toaster, *then* press the corresponding button. This sequence ensures the special cycle runs correctly. Practicality continues with the extra lift lever.
This is incredibly handy for retreiving smaller items like English muffins, mini bagels, or crustini that might otherwise be tricky to get out. It raises them high enough for a safe, easy grab, helping you avoid burnt fingers. It’s worth noting that this lever will only lock down when the toaster is plugged into an outlet, a simple safety feature. Cleanup is also simplified.
Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Extra Wide Slot Toaster with Bagel & Defrost Settings, Shade Selector with 7 Browning Levels, Toast Boost, Auto Shutoff, Black & Stainless Steel (22633)
The Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Extra Wide Slot Toaster (22633) is designed to handle the real-world variety of breads and breakfast items you actually eat, moving beyond the limitations of a basic toaster. Its core advantage is those extra-wide slots, which are a practical solution for anyone who enjoys artisanal breads, thick-cut homemade slices, or hearty bagels. No more squashing your bread to fit or dealing with uneven toasting on the edges.
This toaster accomodates them effortlessly, ensuring the heating elements make full contact for consistent results from edge to edge. A standout feature is the dedicated Bagel setting. It intelligently toasts the cut side of your bagel while gently warming the outer, crusty side. This means you get that satisfying crunch where you want it—against the cream cheese or butter—while the exterior stays pleasingly soft and chewy, not rock-hard.
It’s a simple function that genuinely replicates a better bakery-style experience at home. For frozen breads or waffles, the Defrost setting is integrated to handle them properly, adjusting the time to thaw and toast without you having to guess. Customization is straightforward with a shade selector dial offering seven distinct browning levels. Whether you prefer a barely-golden touch or a deep, crisp finish, you can reliably get your toast just the way you like it.
The Cancel button provides instant stop, and the Auto Shutoff offers peace of mind for those busy mornings. A particularly thoughtful touch is the Toast Boost feature. It raises smaller items like English muffins, mini waffles, or slender gluten-free bread slices higher out of the slot, making them much easier and safer to retreive without burning your fingers. Cleanup, often an afterthought, is simplified with a removable drop-down crumb tray.
Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Toaster with Extra-Wide Slots, Bagel Setting, Toast Boost, Slide-Out Crumb Tray, Auto-Shutoff & Cancel Button, Defrost Function, Stainless Steel (22794)
The Hamilton Beach 2 Slice Toaster (22794) is designed to handle your morning routine with a focus on practicality and ease. Its core purpose is to reliably toast a wide variety of breads and pastries without complication, making it a straightforward addition to any kitchen. The toaster’s construction in stainless steel offers a durable and easy-to-clean finish that fits with most countertop appliances. A key feature of this model are its extra-wide slots.
This design choice means you’re not limited to standard sandwich bread. It comfortably accommodates thicker slices like artisan breads, Texas toast, and whole bagels without the need to force them in or worry about them getting stuck. This flexibility is a significant advantage if your household enjoys a range of bakery items. Alongside this, the toaster includes a dedicated bagel setting, which is handy for toasting the cut side of your bagel while gently warming the outer surface.
Retrieving your toast is made simpler with the Toast Boost function. For smaller items like English muffins or thin slices, the lever raises them higher out of the slot, making them much easier and safer to grab without burning your fingers or using a tool. This is a small but thoughtful feature that improves the daily experience. Cleanup is also considered with a slide-out crumb tray located at the bottom of the toaster.
You can pull this tray out to discard accumulated crumbs, helping to keep your countertop cleaner and maintaining the appliance itself with minimal effort. The control panel provides clear options for different toasting needs. A dial with seven shade settings lets you choose your preferred level of browning, from light to dark.
Americas Test Kitchen Toaster Buying Guide
You want a toaster that just works, every single time. That’s teh whole idea behind an Americas Test Kitchen toaster. These models are the ones that survived their rigorous, real-world testing, so you know they’re built for consistent performance. The key things to look for are even browning, reliable settings, and a design that’s easy to clean.
Browning Consistency
Ever get one slice pale and the other nearly burnt? A good toaster avoids that. The best ones have elements that heat evenly across the whole slot. Look for a model that promises uniform color from edge to edge—it means your toast or bagel will be perfect on both sides, not just in the middle.
Control and Settings
How many settings does it really need? A simple dial can be fine, but a digital display with a countdown is super handy. A dedicated bagel function is crucial if you eat them often; it toasts the cut side while just warming the outside. A good cancel button is a lifesaver for those “oh no” moments too.
Size and Slot Shape
Think about what you toast. Wide slots fit thick artisanal bread or pastries. Long slots are better for bagel halves. Some toasters even have a “lift and look” feature so you can peek without interrupting the cycle. Measure your counter space—some champions are surprisingly compact.
Ease of Cleaning
Crumbs are inevitable. A slide-out crumb tray that’s easy to remove and wash is non-negotiable. Check that the exterior has a smooth finish; textured chrome can look nice but might trap grease and fingerprints more than a plain stainless steel body.
Frequently Asked Questions About Americas Test Kitchen Toaster
What is teh Americas Test Kitchen toaster?
It’s the toaster that won their rigorous testing. Americas Test Kitchen is a famous cooking show that tests kitchen gear. They pick one top performer in each category, and this is their recommended toaster.
Which toaster model is it?
It’s the Breville Die-Cast 2-Slice Smart Toaster, model BTA830. They’ve recommended this specific model for several years becuase it’s performance is so consistent.
Why did it win?
It toasted bread evenly every time, without burning. It has smart features like a “A Bit More” button for extra browning and a special lift to grab small items. The build quality is also very sturdy.
Is it worth the higher price?
Many people think so. It’s more expensive than basic toasters, but it’s built to last. You get precise control and even results, which can be frustrating with cheaper models. If you toast bread often, it’s a good investment.
What are its best features?
Beyond even toasting, it has lots of helpful settings. There are specific buttons for bagels, frozen pastries, and reheating. The carriage lever feels solid, and the crumb tray is easy to clean. The slots are also extra wide for thicker bread.
Does it have any drawbacks?
The main one is the cost. It also takes up more counter space than a slim toaster. Some folks find the many buttons a bit much at first, but they’re easy to get used too.
Where can I buy it?
You can find it at most major retailers like Amazon, Williams Sonoma, and directly from Breville. It’s a popular model, so it’s usually in stock.
How do I clean it?
Unplug it and let it cool first. The crumb tray at the bottom slides out for easy emptying. Just wipe the outside with a damp cloth. Never submerge the toaster in water.
What’s the warranty?
Breville offers a one-year limited warranty. It’s always good to keep your receipt and register the product online after you buy it, just in case.
The Short Answer
Choosing teh right toaster really comes down to what you need. Think about how many slices you toast at once and how consistent you want the results. A good toaster should be simple to use and easy to clean, too. It’s a small appliance, but it gets used almost every day. So it’s worth finding one that works well for your routine.
For a trusted recommendation, many people look to the americas test kitchen toaster reviews. Their testing is thorough and focuses on real performance. They check for even browning and reliability over time. This can help you feel confident in your choice. After all, a great toaster makes your mornings just a little bit smoother, and that’s a win.