You’re probably sick of that battered toaster you’ve had for years that incinerates your toast one day and barely achieves “insipid” the next!
A great day starts with perfect toast, and settling for less isn’t an option. It’s time for a quality upgrade. Look for a toaster that’s user-friendly, offers golden results, and boasts features like a bagel and defrost settings.
Modern toasters also come equipped with timers and LCDs for ease of use. Dive into this article to discover the top toaster models in the UK that fit your lifestyle and budget.
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Best Toasters At A Glance
- Best Overall Toaster – Dualit 4-Slot Vario
- Best Budget Toaster – Russell Hobbs Futura 2 -Slice
- Best For Even Toast – Dualit 2-Slice Lite
- Best For Bagels, Crumpets and Tea Cakes – Dualit 2-Slice Lite
- Best For Thick Bread – Breville 2-Slice Toaster
- Best Wide-Slots – Dualit 2-Slice Lite and Russell Hobbs Buckingham
Best 2 And 4 Slice Toaster: My Top 5 Brands
1. The Dualit Brand
Dualit 2 Slice Lite Toaster
Dualit 2 Slice Lite Toaster
- Dualit 2 Slice Lite Toaster brings ultimate dynamism to your kitchen. The uniquely designed toaster has multi-patented features, thus making it highly efficient.
- It toasts up to 60 slices per hour. Its classic design, coupled with a high gloss finish, is visually attractive in the kitchen and makes your breakfast special.
- Thanks to the peek-and-pop function that Dualit patents, you can check your bread while it's still toasting.
- Operating the appliance is straightforward, thanks to a user-friendly control panel and excellent features.
- You can defrost your frozen bread, use the bagel setting to warm one side of the toast or cancel the toasting cycle with a cancel button.
- Dualit 2 Slice Lite Toaster calculates the temperature of the unit and its surroundings and then adjusts the toasting cycle to match your preference every time.
- Furthermore, the appliance is energy efficient.
- Lightweight design
- Wide slots
- Energy efficient
- Defrost setting
- Crumb tray
- Difficult to clean
- High probability of stalling
< Click Here For A More In-Depth Dualit 2 Slice Toaster Review >
Main Features
- Peek And Pop
An innovative technology lets you check the bread while still toasting without interfering with the toasting. It’s useful when preparing tea cakes, bagels, and crumpets. It pauses the toasting while you raise the lever and continues once you release it. Peek and Pop is an innovative technology that lets you check the bread while still toasting without interfering with the toasting. It’s useful when preparing tea cakes, bagels, and crumpets. It pauses the toasting while you raise the lever and continues once you release it.
- Defrost And Bagel Setting
Warm one side of your bread while you toast the second using bagel settings. In addition, you can defrost frozen bread before toasting it.
- Wide Slots
Measuring 36mm, the slots are thicker than bread slices and thus ideal for tea cakes, muffins, or toasted sandwiches.
Dualit Classic 4 Slice Vario Toaster
Dualit Classic 4 Slice Toaster
- The stainless steel Vario unit is hand-built in the U.K. The toaster has a classic modern performance paired up with a modern performance. I
- t is highly energy-efficient and has some excellent functions.
- Dualit Classic 4 Vario toaster has an ejector system. Your bread, therefore, remains in the machine until you push the ejector lever.
- You can also set the toaster to toast a certain amount of slices, up to a maximum of 4.
- This iconic model has a breadcrumb tray that is easily removable for emptying.
- You can also enjoy other functions, such as defrosting and a mechanical browning control dial.
- The classic Vario toaster has been crafted by hand, and thus, it is fabricated with attention to detail.
- Highly energy efficient
- Wide slots
- Crumb tray
- Eject button
- The width of slots is smaller than the actual size
- Slices of bread toast unevenly
Main Features
- Pro-Heat Elements
Exclusively a Dualit innovation. They are better than traditional wire elements in that they spread heat better. The elements are also removable and have numerous winds per square cm to ensure even toasting.
- Slot Selector
Lets you toast four or two slices of bread simultaneously. The ejector level is also helpful because it lets you check your bread without interfering with the toasting cycle. This feature is ideal for tea cakes, bagels, and crumpets.
- Hand Built
Each unit is purely made by hand. It’s therefore fully repairable with replaceable parts. The classic toaster is durable and has been made to last a lifetime. You can find the assembler’s name at the base of the machine.
2. The Russell Hobbs Brand
Russell Hobbs Futura 2-Slice Toaster 18780
Russell Hobbs Futura 2-Slice Toaster
- The Russell Hobbs Futura 2-Slice Toaster is a popular 2-slice model that's cost-effective.
- It's a basic toaster with just the right features to make super breakfast.
- Its stainless-steel finish rhymes with most appliances in your kitchen and gives it a rich visual appeal.
- A removable breadcrumb tray ensures your counter is clean.
- The appliance is also energy-efficient and lightweight.
- You can achieve your desired browning level with this appliance by turning the manual browning dial.
- Cost-effective
- Lightweight
- Energy efficient
- Ease of use
- Easy to clean
- Short cord
- Not deep enough
< Click Here For A More In-Depth Russell Hobbs 2 Slice Toaster Review >
Main Features
- Defrost
You can defrost your frozen bread before toasting it with the Futura 2-Slice Toaster at an affordable price.
- Reheat
Warm one side of the bread with this gadget if it gets cold.
- Cancel Button
This appliance is built with convenience in mind. The cancel button lets you cancel the toasting should you think the bread is ready so that it does not burn.
- Removable Crumb Tray
The removable crumb tray makes cleaning easier. Your kitchen counter also remains clean, and the risk of the crumbs catching fire during toasting is minimal.
Russell Hobbs 20750 Buckingham 4-Slice Toaster
Russell Hobbs 20750 Buckingham 4-Slice Toaster
- If you are time-conscious, the 20750 Buckingham toaster is your best friend, thanks to the faster toasting technology.
- You don't have to wait too long for your hot toast! This brushed stainless steel model features a manual browning control that controls the browning levels on your bread.
- The toaster has the most basic features: reheat, defrost and cancel button.
- However, the gadget does not have a bagel setting, lift and look, plus a countdown timer.
- Variable browning control
- Independent slice operation
- Wide slots
- Attractive
- Slots are smaller
- Heavy
Main Features
- Faster Toasting Technology
This toaster is up to 55% faster than its predecessors. This feature is very critical because it saves time in the morning. It’s also ideal if you have a busy lifestyle or large family.
- Illuminated Light Strip
A blue-illuminated light strip is active during the toasting cycle. It’s attractive and also notifies you that the toasting is ongoing.
- Wide Slots
Perfect for toasting thicker foodstuffs like teacakes, buns, crumpets, and thick slices of bread.
- Independent Variable Browning Control
Allows you to achieve different browning levels on different slices simultaneously. It’s useful when you have different preferences in your household. It also saves time when preparing breakfast for many people.
- Standard Features – Reheat, Defrost & Cancel
You can reheat cold bread, defrost frozen snacks and cancel the toasting cycle when it’s ready.
3. The Breville Brand
Breville VTT892 4-Slice Toaster
Breville VTT892 4-Slice Toaster
- Breville VTT892 4-Slice toaster has a futuristic design with four ridged walls.
- It is powerful, convenient, and good-looking. Besides, it has extra-wide slots that let you toast various snacks of different sizes.
- It also has a matching kettle to give your kitchen a unique look.
- The toaster has nine browning levels, thus fitting the preferences of many people. The browning controller is manual, thus giving you more control.
- When using the Breville, you should always use the right-hand slots if you are toasting 2 slices only. If you are toasting more than 2 slices, it's recommended you first operate the right-hand side and then continue to the left-hand side.
- The toaster has the standard features of a modern-day toaster – reheat, defrost, and a mid-cycle cancel button. The defrosting function works even when bread is directly from a freezer.
- The only shortcoming of the Breville VTT892 is that it lacks long slots.
- It comes in 4 colours: Black, Grey, Mushroom with Cream trim and White with Gold trim.
- Good looking
- 4 Colours
- Extra lift
- Lift and look
- Easy to clean
- Lacks a timer
< Click Here For A More In-Depth Breville 4 Slice Toaster Review >
Main Features
- High Lift
The high lift feature enhances the convenience of the appliance. You can remove small slices of bread effortlessly without burning your fingers.
- Variable Browning Controls
The toaster is equipped with 9 heat levels and thus can achieve numerous browning levels. In addition, the control is manual, and thus, you can easily achieve your preferred browning level.
- Removable Bread Crumbs Tray
A removable bread crumbs tray lets you eject the bread crumbs effortlessly. Cleaning the toaster is, therefore, easy. You also minimize the risk of accidents in case the breadcrumbs catch fire if unremoved.
- Illuminated Control
The controls are illuminated for easier identification of the proper functions.
Breville 2-Slice Toaster (VTT570)
Breville 2-Slice Toaster (VTT570)
- The Breville 2-Slice Toaster is a small, attractive, yet powerful appliance.
- The polished stainless steel makes it unique and matches most appliances in the kitchen.
- The Warburtons VTT570 2-Slice toaster browns the entire surface area of bread, unlike many toasters.
- This appliance will fit any sized Warburton loaf seamlessly regardless of the thick slices, thanks to the adjustable length and width slots.
- The perfectly sized appliance has almost all the features you need in a toaster.
- This toaster ensures you never get disappointed with your toast ever again.
- The Breville 2-Slice Toaster features the normal functions– defrost, reheat and mid-cycle cancel button.
- User-friendliness
- Energy efficient
- Ease of use
- Excellent temperature control
- Slow
- Uneven toasting
Main Features
- Deeper And Variable Size Slots
Deep slots allow the toaster to accommodate the popular Warburton toast and crumpets, croissants, bagels, and many more. The variable length and width of the slots allow for both thin and thick slices.
- High Lift
If you are toasting small items, this feature lets you remove them from the toaster effortlessly without risking burning your fingers.
- Lift And Look
When toasting your bread, this feature lets you check the browning level mid-cycle.
- Variable Browning Control
Variable control lets you set your preferred shade of golden brown.
- User Friendly
The toaster has a removable breadcrumb tray, which makes the process of cleaning easy. Also, the base design is non-slip and has cord storage. The controls are also red-illuminated for easy navigation.
4. The De’Longhi Brand
De’Longhi Active Line 2-Slice Toaster
De'Longhi Active Line 2-Slice Toaster
- De'Longhi Active Line 2-slot toaster is a basic yet quality toaster made for durability.
- Interestingly, the appliance is budget-friendly.
- The stainless-steel toaster comes with a stylish red colour that enhances its looks.
- The appliance has a matching kettle to complete the breakfast set in style.
- The 2-slot toaster performs excellently considering its budget.
- It has basic features such as reheating and defrosting.
- Nonetheless, the width of the slots does not cover the bread appropriately in certain instances.
- Lightweight
- Nice looking
- Cost-effective
- Easy to use
- Uneven toasting
- Lacks length and depth
Main Features
- Extra-Lift Position
The toaster has an extra-lift position, which is useful when removing small slices. You don’t have to risk burning your fingers.
- Removable Tray
A removable crumbs tray makes cleaning the toaster easy. Also, the crumbs risk catching fire during toasting if not removed regularly.
- Electronic Controls
The toaster has three main functions: defrost, reheat and cancel. All the functions are available via electronic controls. Furthermore, they feature a neon indicator.
- Variable Browning Control
The toaster has variable browning controls, which let you choose how you want to crisp your bread. The controls also ensure you get the preferred browning level every time.
De’Longhi Brilliante 4-Slot Toaster
De'Longhi Brilliante 4-Slot Toaster
- De'Longhi Brilliante 4-slot toaster is a 1800w toaster whose signature colours are black and white, thus giving it a somewhat retro design.
- The 4-slot versatile toaster has a crumb tray, electronic controls, and an extra lift.
- The slots are operable independently.
- The toaster is durable, and thus, you get a 1-year warranty.
- The toaster performs considerably well, thanks to the six shade settings.
- In addition, the toaster has the standard features of a toaster: reheat, defrost and cancel functions. It, however, does not have a bagel setting.
- Good for large sizes
- Energy saving
- Easy to clean
- Looks great
- Affordable
- Cheap material – plastic
- Inconsistent toasting
< Click Here For A More In-Depth De’Longhi 4 Slice Toaster Review >
Main Features
- Extra Lift And Variable Width
The extra lift feature allows you to toast small slices of bread and remove them from the toaster without burning your fingers. The slots feature variable width, which increases your choices of bread sizes and shapes. The racks can accommodate either thin or thick bread.
- Independent Slot Operation
You can operate the four slots independently. Each pair of slots is operated independently. Different slices of bread can, therefore, attain different levels of toasting simultaneously. It’s therefore ideal for large families.
- Crumb Tray
A removable crumb tray makes cleaning super easy.
- Electronic Controls
All the basic functions (defrost, reheat and cancel) are accessible via electric controls on the front side.
5. The Morphy Richards Brand
Morphy Richards Dune 2 Slice Toaster
Morphy Richards Dune 2 Slice Toaster
- The toaster to match your kitchen and perform excellently is no other but the Morphy Richards 220027 Dune 2 slice toaster.
- The plastic toaster features a premium gloss finish, making it look classy.
- With an 850 W power output, the 2-slice toaster is significantly energy efficient.
- The package comes with a toaster and an instruction manual. Even though it browns one side better than the other one, it works flawlessly.
- Easy to clean
- Lightweight
- Illuminated buttons
- Looks great
- Burns bread unevenly
- Heat control is problematic
Main Features
- Re-Heat Setting
You can reheat your cold bread before toasting it with the Morphy Richards 220027 toaster.
- Defrost Setting
You can toast your bread straight out of the freezer. The toaster first defrosts the bread, then does the toasting.
- Cord Storage
This feature allows you to fold the extra cord to keep your kitchen clean and well-organized.
- Removable Crumb Tray
It helps to keep your toaster clean
- Variable Browning
The toaster has 7 heat levels to achieve different degrees of crispiness
Morphy Richards Evoke 4 Slice Toaster Special Edition 240114
Morphy Richards Evoke 4 Slice Toaster Special Edition
- Morphy Richards Evoke 4 slice toaster 240114 gives your kitchen a new identity with a touch of elegance.
- The rose gold colour and black matte finish give the toaster an ultra-classy appearance.
- The toaster is super easy to operate and packs many excellent features.
- It has 7 toast settings, and if you doubt its build quality, the manufacturer issues a 2-year warranty on the cookware.
- Visually appealing
- 2-year warranty
- Variable width slots
- Variable browning levels
- Illuminated buttons
- It does not toast evenly
- Flimsy lowering levers
Main Features
- Re-Heat Setting
If your bread gets cold, you can reheat it and toast it with the same appliance.
- Variable Browning Levels
Equipped with seven toast settings, you will surely have your toast cooked to your liking.
- Cancel Setting
If you suspect your bread is ready, this function lets you cancel the toasting cycle.
- High Lift Function
If you are toasting small slices of bread, this feature helps you to remove them effortlessly.
- Removable Crumb Tray
A removable breadcrumb tray makes it easy to clean the toaster
- Wide Slots
The wide slots with variable width allow you to toast bread of different sizes and shapes.
- Cord Storage
You can fold the extra length of the cord to keep your kitchen counter neat and organized.
Considerations When Buying A Toaster
When buying a toaster, some critical considerations go hand in hand, and you must take them into perspective before making your purchase.
Cost
When buying a toaster, the cost plays an important part. The cost is inversely proportional to the features and the size. A cheap toaster will have basic features and be smaller, while a costly alternative packs many features and is likely larger.
The cost always determines the features you get. You should, however, get a standard model without breaking an arm and still enjoy your breakfasts.
Size
When purchasing a toaster, the size is also critical. You should choose a size that fits with your needs. For instance, you may need a 4-slot toaster if you have a larger family, and a 2-slot will do if you live alone or with a partner.
The size also influences the pricing. You should ensure the size you pick is ideal for your requirements, such as 2- or 4-slots, the space it occupies, and energy consumption.
<<Our Testing and Review Methodology>>
Best Toaster FAQ
When Was The Toaster Invented?
Even though the idea of toasting bread dates past 500 B.C. from early civilizations, the standard toaster was invented in 1893 by Alan MacMasters in Scotland. It was called the Eclipse.
What Do The Numbers Mean On A Toaster?
Popular belief has it that the numbers refer to minutes. However, that is not always true. The higher the number, the longer your bread will be cooked.
How Many Watts Does A Toaster Use?
The number of watts consumed depends on the brand, model, usage pattern, and size. The wattage of a toaster is written on the package and underneath the appliance. For instance, the average wattage of a bread toaster ranges between 1000 – 1800 watts.
Toaster Vs Toaster Oven?
A toaster oven is more versatile than a toaster. It can toast almost everything: muffins, sandwiches, bread, wraps, and buns, which a toaster cannot. A toasting oven can also conduct other functions such as baking, roasting, broiling, reheating, and defrosting since it has extra features like a dedicated sandwich rack.
On the other hand, a toaster is dedicated to toasting bread and comes with a simplistic design (unless of course, you want to try some of our amazing toaster hacks!). It is also flexible, lightweight, and faster.
Did you know that most brands offer matching toaster and kettle sets? These have become very popular because of their stylish colours and designs.
How To Clean A Toaster?
You unplug the toaster and let it cool down completely. Shake crumbs loose or remove the tray if it’s removable and pour down the crumbs in a trash bin or sink. For removable trays, dip it in a cleaning solution in the sink and wash it with a sponge. Rinse it and dry it.
Brush any crumbs in the interior, then use a sponge or dishcloth to wipe the interiors. Reassemble the toaster, and you’re good to go.
Best Toaster: Summing Up
When purchasing any cookware, you should always check the reviews of the product available online. The Dualit 4 Slot Vario Toaster is the best you can purchase based on users and expert reviews.
This Dualit model has excellent features such as unique ProHeat elements with a plated protective layer. The appliance is hand-built in the U.K. with easily available replacement parts. It’s also easy to use, easy to clean, durable, and still offers value for your money.
