In the collective imagination, the toaster is one and only one: the vertical one with two slots to insert two slices of bread. But even if they are straightforward to use, the toasters are not all the same, and they can have shapes, sizes, accessories, features, and very different prices.
To understand the best solution for your needs, we see the toaster’s main features currently on the market.
Table of Contents
How does an electric toaster work?
A toaster’s operation is effortless: if it is a traditional vertical model, insert the slices of bread into the cracks, wait for the roasting time, and wait for it: your slices are ready to be covered with jam.
In the case of a horizontal toaster, the principle does not change. The only difference is that the slices will lie on the plate. Almost all vertical and horizontal models are equipped with insulating grips, programmable timers, defrost function, and electronic cooking control, issuing a warning (acoustic or bright) when it is time to extract the contents.
How to choose an electric toaster: typologies and features
A toaster choice is based on two criteria: the frequency of use and the number of people who use it in the family. The toasters are essentially divided into two categories: vertical and horizontal. Let’s see what they differentiate.
Vertical
Classic toasters: the slices are inserted vertically into the compartments where the grilles are housed, and once ready, they are pulled out with the special pliers. Generally, they are small and compact. As a result, they occupy less space than horizontal ones, and if used very often, they can be conveniently placed in the cabinet.
Once, they were hard to clean, especially from residues accumulating on the bottom. Fortunately, today, they are almost all equipped with a removable compartment that greatly facilitates operations. They are undoubtedly the best solution if the only purpose is to toast bread in moderate quantities.
Horizontal
Horizontal patterns are similar to the professional ones we see in all bars, with a fixed plate at the bottom and a cabinet that opens upwards and then closes over the food. However, plates can be different (smooth, striped, removable) and easily cleaned.
The horizontal models are versatile and allow not only to heat slices of bread but also to cook other foods: pizza, grilled vegetables, burgers … and are perfect for preparing stuffed toasts without cheesy cheese everywhere.
They occupy more space on average and are usually more expensive than vertical ones. Still, horizontal models are a viable alternative if you often use the toaster or need to prepare larger quantities of food simultaneously.
There are some factors to consider when selecting a toaster. Let’s see what features to look for in making the best purchase:
- Size: One of the first things to consider is the space available on your kitchen floor. If it is reduced, opting for a vertical and compact model is best. On the other hand, if you do not have bullet problems, you can easily choose a large horizontal toaster.
- Power: The toaster’s power, expressed in watts, can vary greatly, from 500 to 1800 watts. More power implies quicker and more efficient cooking but also higher fuel consumption.
- Cleaning: If you want to buy a vertical model, make sure that it has a removable crumpled drawer to make cleaning the appliance easier. Cleaning horizontal models is generally easier, especially if removable plates are washed comfortably in the kitchen sink.
- Programmable Timer: Most commercial models’ convenience is the timer, which will alert you with a beep or light when your toasts are cooked to the dot.
- Automatic shutdown: useful to those particularly vulnerable, the automatic shutdown function will not risk letting you forget the appliance.
- Accessories and Functions: Both vertical and horizontal toasters can have extra functions and accessories such as gilding, automatic slit removal, defrost function, or plates of different shapes. The offer is extensive, and the choice is made according to your needs and available budget.
- Price: Not to be overlooked, finally, is the price factor. There are basic models with meager costs (around $20), but for a super-equipped design toaster, you can also spend up to $100.
Duration and maintenance
Maintenance of the toaster is essential because proper housekeeping will affect its performance and durability. In the case of vertical toasters, a grate compartment facilitates many of these operations, and the same applies to removable plates (even better if dishwasher-safe) in a horizontal model. Ideally, the appliance should be cleaned after each use but can periodically clean regular maintenance thoroughly after all uses.
The best electric toasters quality/price
Now that we have seen typologies and features, we see the ten best toasters for value for money.
- NOT JUST FOR TOAST: The extra wide 1.25" slots and 6 browning levels allow for toasting a...
- COOL TOUCH: With easy-to-use push-down toasting lever and non-slip feet. The swing-out...
- PORTABLE & LIGHTWEIGHT: Easy to carry and lightweight, the Elite Gourmet Toaster is...
- 【Touch Screen & Digital Timer】No more guesswork! With just a touch, select your bread...
- 【6 Bread Types & 6 Shade Settings】Calling all bread enthusiasts! Choose from 6 bread...
- 【Defrost & Bagel & Cancel Functions】Defrost, bagel, or cancel? You're in control!...
- Special Functions - Press the frozen or bagel buttons and the toaster will automatically...
- Slide-Out Crumb Tray - Keep the counter clean and the kitchen smelling fresh. The crumb...
- Sleek Design - The efficient design won’t cramp your countertop or your style
- Toast The Foods You Love: The ultimate smart home gadget, this 2-slice digital toaster...
- Fast, Consistent Toasting Every Time: Our bread toaster comes equipped with an ultra-fast...
- Customize Your Toasting Experience: With 3 toasting modes, 7 toasting shades, and options...
- 7 SHADE SETTINGS: Enjoy a variety of toast options thanks to multiple shade adjustability...
- EXTRA WIDE TOASTER SLOTS: Accommodate various types of breads, pastries, waffles and...
- 2 SLICE TOASTER: A compact and efficient 2-slice toaster allows you to perfectly toast 2...
- CLASSIC DESIGN: Smooth brushed stainless steel housing with polished chrome and black...
- SUPERIOR OPERATION: With two control panels, two 6-setting browning dials, dual reheat,...
- MUST-HAVE FEATURES: Extra-lift carriage lever, slide-out crumb tray, convenient cord wrap...
- 【Contemporary Design】: Equipped with a 4.4 inch big touch screen, now you can read all...
- 【For Most Breads】: On the touchscreen, you can select from 6 different browning levels...
- 【Toast Evenly】: As a toaster, the primary function is to toast bread evenly. After...
- EFFORTLESSLY TOAST THICKER BREADS: Wider than the slots on many 2 slice toasters, the...
- EASILY RETRIEVE SMALLER SIZED BREADS: The Toast Boost feature on the 2 slice toaster lifts...
- KEEP COUNTERTOPS CLEANER: Conveniently remove and discard crumbs from the bottom of the...
- Multifunctional Toaster – Kickstart your mornings with fresh toast or perfectly warmed...
- Full Control – Six browning settings let you take control of your toasting level so you...
- Extra-Wide Slots – With each slot at 1.6 inch wide, the 4 slice toaster lets you fit...
- TOASTED BREAD IN MINUTES – Set your desired toasting shade from lightly toasted to...
- MULTI-BREAD SLOT – Equipped with a two bread slot so you can toast 2 slices of bread at...
- MINIMALIST DESIGN – The classic style will surely add elegance to your kitchen counter....
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