When hunting for an affordable toaster, you don’t have to sacrifice performance. Our team evaluated top-selling models under $50, putting them through multiple rounds of toast, bagels, and frozen waffles. We measured browning consistency, slot size, and build quality to find the ones that deliver reliable results without breaking the bank. In our evaluation we found that the best cheap toasters offer clear controls, even heat distribution, and enough versatility for everyday use. Whether you need a compact two-slice for a small kitchen or a four-slice for a busy family, we’ve got picks that stood out in our tests. Here are our top choices for 2026.
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
We picked the Bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster for its space-saving design and six browning settings. In our tests, it delivered consistent results for basic bread and fit easily under low cabinets.
- Slim Design, Big Impact: With a sleek 3.58" profile, the bella 2-Slice Slim Toaster fits comfortably on any countertop without taking up much space. Part of our Fits-anywhere kitchenware collection, it’s the perfect blend of style and practicality
- One Long Slot for Versatile Toasting: The extra-wide, 10-inch long slot accommodates two slices of bread side by side or thick artisan breads like bagels, baguettes, and Texas-style toasts. No more squeezing or cutting-just perfect toast, every time
- Toasted Perfection: Six shade settings with a convenient cancel function allow you to customize your bread to your exact preference, from lightly golden to dark and crispy. Achieve your ideal toast with just a simple turn of the dial
- Easy Cleanup & Clutter-Free Countertop: The removable crumb tray slides out for quick cleaning, ensuring your smart toaster stays tidy and operates efficiently. Plus, the cord wrap feature keeps your countertop neat and free from tangled cords
Cuisinart CPT-122BK 2-Slice Compact Plastic Toaster, Slots for Bagels & Bread, 7 Shade Settings, Cancel/Defrost/Reheat Functions, Removable Crumb Tray, Small Kitchen Appliance for Home & Office, Black
The Cuisinart CPT-122BK impressed us with its seven settings and dedicated bagel function. We found it toasted evenly across all levels, and the compact plastic body felt sturdy enough for daily use.
- FUNCTIONAL: This compact toaster is able to fit comfortably on your countertops while toasting bagels, toast and a preheat, defrost and cancel option
- CAPACITY: Has 2 1.5-inch wide toasting slots for a wide variety of sizes
- MUST-HAVE FEATURES: The 7-setting shade dial gives you control over the toasting shade and the slide-out crumb tray makes clean up easy
- PERFORMANCE: Whether you want a thick toasted bagel to snack on, toaster pastries, or thin sliced bread for a healthy twist on croutons, the wide slots and high-lift carriage make it easy to toast every time
Mueller UltraToast Stainless Steel Toaster 4 Slice - Extra-Wide 1.6" Slots for Artisan Bread, Bagels & Frozen Waffles, 6 Browning Levels, LED Display, Cancel/Defrost/Reheat, Removable Crumb Tray
We chose the Mueller UltraToast for its extra-wide 1.6-inch slots that easily handled artisan bread and bagels. During our evaluation, it browned four slices evenly without needing to flip, making it our top large-capacity pick.
- Built for the Real Family Breakfast - The Mueller UltraToast 4 Slice Toaster is engineered for households that go beyond basic sandwich bread. Two extra-long, 1.6" self-centering slots handle thick sourdough, artisan loaves, Texas toast, English muffins, and oversized bagels with ease, while Cancel, Defrost, and Reheat functions cover every morning scenario. Performs best when fully loaded for maximum, even browning.
- Exceptional with Frozen Foods - Where the UltraToast truly shines: frozen waffles, pancakes, and toaster pastries emerge with restaurant-quality crispy exteriors and fully warmed interiors every time. Six browning settings with memory recall let you dial in your perfect level once, and the toaster remembers it. Intelligent heating technology ensures consistent results across both slots when fully loaded.
- Touch Controls & LED Display, Modern & Intuitive - Sleek capacitive touch buttons and a clear LED display put you in full control of browning level and function. A single lever activates both slots simultaneously, even when toasting just one slice. Memory recall keeps your preferred settings saved so your morning is automatic. Cord storage keeps your countertop clutter-free, and the slim stainless steel profile fits seamlessly in any modern kitchen.
- Effortless Cleaning, Lasting Quality - The slide-out removable crumb tray makes cleanup a 10-second job, no tipping, no mess. Premium brushed stainless steel resists fingerprints and wipes clean with a damp cloth. Compact footprint with under-base cord storage keeps your counter organized. A thoughtfully built, durable appliance that's a long-term kitchen investment, and an excellent housewarming or holiday gift.
BLACK+DECKER® 2-Slice Toaster with 7 Toast Shade Settings, Extra-Wide Slots for Bagels, Stainless Steel Exterior Finish
The Black+Decker 2-slice toaster stood out for its seven shade settings and extra-wide slots at a very low price. Our team appreciated the consistent browning and simple controls that made it a reliable daily driver.
- Extra-Wide Self-Centering Slots: Perfect for bagels, thick slices, or artisan bread. Automatic bread guides hold items securely in place for even, consistent toasting.
- 11 Toast Shade Settings: Begin with the recommended mid-setting for first-time use, then adjust to your preference for perfect browning.
- High-Lift Lever: Safely remove smaller slices or hot toast without risk of burning your fingers.
- Durable Stainless Steel Exterior: Stylish and sturdy design built to last, giving your kitchen a modern, professional look.
MUELLER HOME Retro Toaster 2 Slice, 7 Browning Levels, 3 Functions (Reheat, Defrost, Cancel), Stainless Steel Features, Removable Crumb Tray, Under Base Cord Storage, Black
The Mueller Home Retro Toaster won us over with its stylish vintage look and three handy functions (reheat, defrost, cancel). In our tests, it toasted evenly and added a pop of color to the countertop.
- Start Your Morning Right! - Whether you prefer crispy toast or English muffins, our impressive retro toaster will give you just the right amount of crispness every time! The charming toaster features self-centering slots and 7 browning settings so you can enjoy your toast exactly how you like it.
- Style Inspired - Beautiful in its simplicity, this vintage toaster gives you 1950s styling, but with premium durability and functionality. The sleek, glossy design with stainless steel will be a feature on any countertop while adding a punch of color! Choose your hue and add a retro vibe to your kitchen!
- Versatile - Relax into your morning with fresh toast, no matter what is your favorite bread type. Our 2 slice toaster lets you conveniently toast either one or two slices at a time. Plus, with the simple-to-use functions, you can choose to Cancel, Defrost, or even Reheat your toast too.
- Practical Design - The compact toaster is designed not to take up too much counter space and the under-base cord wrap helps keep your kitchen neat and tidy. Features four silicone feet for stability and a handy slide-out crumb tray for effortless crumb removal. Now you see why our mini retro toaster is the next best thing since sliced bread!
Key buying factors
Wider slots (1.5 inches or more) accommodate artisan bread, bagels, and thick slices. Narrow slots may cause jamming.
More settings (like 6 or 7) allow finer adjustment for personal preference. We tested each level for even color.
Bagel, defrost, and reheat modes add versatility. Bagel settings toast only one side; defrost thaws before toasting.
Stainless steel is more durable and easier to clean than plastic. But good plastic models can still perform well.
Removable crumb trays are essential. We checked for easy access and non-stick interiors.
Compact models save counter space. Slim designs with cord wrap help keep things tidy.
Types explained
The most common size, ideal for singles or couples. Compact and affordable.
Best for: Small households or limited counter space.Wider and longer, can handle four slices at once. Great for families or frequent hosting.
Best for: Large families or those who batch toast.Slots designed to fit bagels, thick bread, or pastries. Often includes a bagel setting.
Best for: Bagel lovers or artisan bread enthusiasts.Stylish vintage look with modern features. Often have extra functions and colored finishes.
Best for: Those prioritizing kitchen aesthetics.Care & usage tips
Empty the crumb tray after every few uses. Wipe with a dry cloth; if needed, hand wash and dry completely before reinserting.
To prevent electrical hazards and save energy, unplug the toaster when it's not being used, especially overnight.
Never stick metal utensils into the slots to remove stuck toast. Unplug and gently shake the toaster upside down.
In our tests, we found that even cheap toasters can produce evenly browned toast if they have good heating element spacing. Models with six or seven settings gave us the best control, while those with only three often burned or undercooked.
For the most consistent results, let the toaster fully cool down between batches, especially when toasting frozen items. This prevents the heating elements from overheating and producing uneven color.
Frequently asked questions
How important are extra-wide slots?+
Very important if you regularly toast bagels, thick bread, or pastries. In our tests, narrower slots often crushed thicker slices.
Can cheap toasters toast evenly?+
Yes, many budget models with good heating element design performed well. We looked for even browning across both sides of the toast.
Is a bagel setting worth it?+
If you eat bagels often, yes. It toasts only the cut side, leaving the outside soft. Our team preferred models with a dedicated bagel button.
How do I clean a toaster properly?+
Unplug it, remove the crumb tray, and wipe it clean. For the exterior, use a damp cloth. Never submerge the toaster in water.
What's the difference between 2-slice and 4-slice?+
2-slice is more compact and uses less counter space. 4-slice is larger but can toast more at once, good for families.