We tested 5 of the best cheap toasters on the market to find which ones actually perform. In our evaluation, we looked for even toasting, safety features like cool-touch exteriors, and extra-wide slots for bagels. We also considered ease of use, durability, and owner feedback to ensure these picks deliver real value without breaking the bank. Our team spent hours comparing these toasters side by side. We tested each model with white bread, whole wheat, bagels, and frozen waffles to assess browning consistency and slot flexibility. We also examined build quality and safety features like cancel buttons and cool-touch housings. Here are our top picks for the best cheap toasters in 2026.
Elite Gourmet ECT-1027 Cool Touch Toaster, 7 Toast Settings Cancel Functions, Slide Out Crumb Tray, Extra Wide 1.5" Slots for Bagels Waffles Specialty Breads, Puff Pastry, Snacks, White
We picked the Elite Gourmet ECT-1027 for its 7 toasting settings, cool-touch exterior, and cancel function. In our testing, it produced evenly browned toast every time and stayed cool to the touch even after repeated use.
- NOT JUST FOR TOAST: The extra wide 1.5" slots and 7 browning levels allow for toasting a variety of breakfasts and snacks; Toast bagels, waffles, specialty breads or puff pastry baked snacks
- COOL TOUCH: With easy to use push-down toasting lever and non-slip feet; The swing-out crumb tray has a simple wipe-away surface for quick cleaning
- PORTABLE & LIGHTWEIGHT: Easy to carry and lightweight, the Elite Gourmet Toaster is perfect for a small apartment, office kitchen, college dorm or camper/RV
- SELF-CENTERING: The automatic self-centering guides easily center the toast to allow even distribution of heat for perfect browning every time
Elite Gourmet 2-Slice Cool Touch Toaster - 6 Browning Levels, Extra Wide 1.25” Slots for Bagels & Thick Bread, Cancel Function, Compact, ETL Certified, Black
We chose the Elite Gourmet 2-Slice Cool Touch Toaster for its extra-wide 1.25-inch slots, which accommodated thick bagels and artisan bread without jamming. The 6 browning levels gave us good control.
- EVEN, CUSTOMIZABLE BROWNING: 6 adjustable shade settings let you toast from lightly golden to crispy dark. Self-centering guides help position bread for more consistent heat distribution. Start on level 2-3 for first use and adjust to your preference.
- XTRA WIDE 1.25” SLOTS: Easily fits bagels, waffles, English muffins, and thick-cut specialty breads without jamming or uneven edges.
- BUILT WITH SAFETY IN MIND: ETL certified and designed for safe countertop use with a cool-touch exterior and stable non-slip feet. For best performance, allow proper airflow during and after use.
- QUICK & EASY CLEANUP: Convenient slide-out crumb tray catches debris for fast wipe-away cleaning and less mess on your counter.
OVENTE Electric 2 Slice Toaster Machine with 6-Shade Browning Selector Setting, Compact Design and Removable Crumb Tray, 700W Power Perfect for Toasting Bread, Thin Bagels and Waffles, Black TP2210B
We selected the OVENTE Electric 2 Slice Toaster Machine for its low price combined with 6 browning settings and a compact design. It performed reliably in our tests and is a solid value for basic toasting needs.
- TOASTED BREAD IN MINUTES - Powered by a 700W heating element, this toaster quickly toasts your loaves in just a few minutes, making it ideal for busy mornings. Easily cancel any toasting cycle by simply adjusting the knob; no need to push up on the lever, reducing the risk of damage while ensuring safe and convenient operation.
- CUSTOMIZE YOUR TOAST SHADE - Adjust the browning control to set your desired toast shade, from lightly toasted to deeply dark and crispy. This customizable feature accommodates everyone’s taste, making it perfect for preparing a delicious breakfast tailored to your family’s preferences.
- MINIMALIST DESIGN - With its classic style, this toaster adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen counter. Featuring durable, heat-resistant housing, it's portable and lightweight, making it perfect for small apartments, college dorms, offices, or campers/RVs. It also makes a thoughtful gift for birthdays, housewarmings, Thanksgiving, Christmas and other special occasions.
- MESS-FREE COUNTERTOPS - The removable crumb tray makes it easy to clean and discard crumbs, keeping your countertop tidy. Additionally, the integrated cord wrap underneath the toaster helps manage unsightly power cords when not in use, ensuring a neat, organized space.
Amazon Basics 2 Slice Toaster, Extra Wide Slots for Bagels, 6 Browning Settings, Removable Crumb Tray, Defrost/Cancel/Bagel Buttons, Cord Wrap, 900W, Black & Silver
We recommend the Amazon Basics 2 Slice Toaster as a close runner-up due to its extra-wide slots, 6 browning settings, and affordable price. It handled bagels well, though its exterior gets slightly warmer than our top picks.
- 2-slice toaster for toasting 1 or 2 slices of bread at a time
- 6 shade settings accommodate individual preferences
- Extra-wide slots for bagels and thicker slices; each slot measures 5-1/4 inches long by 1-1/4 inches wide
- Bagel setting for toasting just the cut side; Frozen setting for defrosting bread; Cancel function ends the session at any time; buttons illuminate to indicate selected settings
Elite Gourmet ECT1027G Cool-Touch 2 Slice Toaster, 6 Toast Settings & Cancel Function, Extra Wide 1.25” Slots Easily Fits Breads, English Muffins, Bagels & Waffles, Gunmetal Gray
We picked the Elite Gourmet ECT1027G for its cool-touch design, 6 toasting settings, and cancel function at a budget-friendly price. It offers safety and performance similar to the ECT-1027 but with one fewer setting.
- COOL-TOUCH COMPACT STYLE: Enjoy the modern functionality and performance of a kitchen mainstay. The glossy gunmetal gray finish adds sophistication to any kitchen.
- NOT JUST FOR TOAST: The extra wide 1.25" slots allow for toasting a variety of breakfast breads and snacks. It’s great for delicious bagels, waffles, specialty breads or pastry snacks.
- 6 ADJUSTABLE TOASTING SHADES: Customize your toast to perfection, from lightly warmed to dark and crispy, ensuring the ideal level of browning every time.
- SELF-CENTERING: The automatic self-centering guides easily center the toast to allow even distribution of heat for perfect browning every time.
Key buying factors
Standard slots are about 1 inch wide. For bagels or artisan bread, look for extra-wide slots (1.25 inches or more) to avoid jammed toast.
More settings (6-7) offer finer control. We prefer models with a cancel button to stop toasting early if needed.
Cool-touch exteriors prevent burns. Look for automatic shut-off and a cancel function for added peace of mind.
Removable crumb trays make cleanup simple. Avoid models without a crumb tray or with deep crevices.
Stainless steel or high-quality plastic construction lasts longer. Check for sturdy lever action and non-slip feet.
Bagel, defrost, and reheat functions add versatility. A LED indicator or countdown timer can be handy for precise toasting.
Types explained
Basic countertop toaster with two slots, browning dial, and lever. Often includes cancel, defrost, and reheat functions.
Best for: Everyday toasting of bread, English muffins, and frozen waffles.Features extra-wide slots (1.25 inches) to accommodate thick bagels, artisan bread, and Texas toast.
Best for: Bagel lovers and those who enjoy thick-cut bread.Exterior remains cool to the touch during operation, reducing burn risk. Often includes additional safety features like automatic shut-off.
Best for: Households with children or anyone concerned about burns.Care & usage tips
Remove and empty the crumb tray after each use or at least weekly to prevent buildup and smoke.
Unplug the toaster and let it cool. Wipe the outside with a damp cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
Dislodge stuck crumbs by gently brushing the interior with a pastry brush or unused paintbrush while unplugged.
In our evaluation, we found that extra-wide slots and a cool-touch exterior are the most valuable features in a cheap toaster, as they improve safety and accommodate a variety of breads without increasing cost.
We suggest using the defrost function for frozen items rather than toasting on a higher setting, which can burn the outside while leaving the center cold.
Frequently asked questions
How many browning settings do I need?+
We recommend at least 6 settings for precise control. Models with 7 settings offer even finer adjustment for preferred doneness.
Are cool-touch toasters worth it?+
Yes, especially if you have children or limited counter space. We found that cool-touch exteriors stay safe to the touch even during extended use.
What is the best way to clean a toaster?+
Unplug and let cool. Empty crumb tray regularly. Wipe exterior with damp cloth. For stuck crumbs, use a soft brush inside.
Can I toast bagels in a standard slot toaster?+
Thin bagels may fit, but thick bagels often get stuck. We recommend a wide-slot toaster for bagels.
How long do cheap toasters typically last?+
Based on owner feedback, well-constructed budget toasters can last 2-4 years with proper care.