The perfect toaster turns out to be an elusive dream

When it comes to buying a toaster, cost is not necessarily a reliable indicator of toasting ability. You'll pay more for contemporary styling, all-metal construction, features such as LED readouts and special settings like reheat, keep warm, lift levers and countdown timers, but even the most expensive toasters have their share of poor reviews from users, primarily for uneven toasting. Most toasters offer the same basic functions, including bagel, defrost and reheat settings. However, these features are often a primary point of concern in reviews.

Here's what reviewers say about selecting a toaster:

  • Consider what you want to toast. Models with long, wide slots can accommodate slices of artisan bread or bagels. If you frequently toast items like English muffins, look for a model with a high bread lift so you don't have to fish out smaller items.
  • Opt for a bagel setting if you like to toast only on one side. This feature heats just one side of the slot so that only the cut side gets toasted.
  • Assess your counter space. Four-slice toasters tend to be bulky, as do toasters with retro styling. If you have a place where you plan to store your toaster, be sure to measure its width and depth before buying.
  • Decide how much you're willing to pay for style. Experts say that white toasters show their age faster than chrome or colored toasters. Chrome or polished stainless-steel toasters are more likely to show scratches and fingerprints. We didn't find a performance difference between basic toasters and fancier-looking ones.
  • Look for safety features. If your household includes children, look for a stay-cool top and sides, as well as cord storage and a bread lift, which will prevent you from having to dig for mini bagels and other small items and risk being burned or electrocuted.
  • Go for a removable crumb tray. These are much more convenient and easier to clean than hinged trays. The best crumb trays are dishwasher-safe.
  • Skip digital toasters if you want simple controls. Experts say manual controls are more straightforward to use and understand, whereas digital controls tend to be ambiguous.

Experts favor electronic controls or numbered dials over shade dials without numbers, because the latter are less precise. For evenly browned bread, allow for a break-in period of about six uses, and don't judge a toaster on its first few batches. A reheat setting, which warms cold toast without browning, is handy.

If you plan to toast frozen waffles or oblong slices of bread, look for slots at least 5.5 inches long. Frozen waffle and pastry lovers may want a toaster with a defrost feature, which thaws and toasts in a single cycle. None of these is essential, but they are nice extras if desired.

Although reviews favor toasters with cords longer than 40 inches, they also say families with children should opt for models with cord storage (which allows you to wrap extra cord underneath the machine). Four-slice toasters are a time-saving option for families. Look for a model with dual controls if some family members prefer their toast darker than others.

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