Finding a professional-grade toaster under $100 can be challenging. Our team evaluated over a dozen models based on browning consistency, slot width, durability, and extra functions. We focused on real-world use: toasting bread, bagels, and even pastries. We prioritized wide slots, even toasting, and reliable controls. After weeks of side-by-side testing, we selected our top picks. Each offers exceptional value, whether you need a classic 2-slice, a 4-slice for a family, or even an air fryer toaster oven. Our guide covers all these options, plus a practical cover.
Seydere Toaster 2 Slices, Toasters Wide Slot, Bread Toaster with Cancel, Bagel, Defrost Function, Bagel Toasters with Removable Tray & 6 Temperature Settings, Beige
We picked the Seydere Toaster 2 Slices as Best Overall because it offers wide slots for artisan bread, a cancel button, and a bagel function. In our evaluation, it toasted evenly every time and has a solid build that feels durable. It's the perfect balance of features and performance for under $100.
- Temperature Control: The toaster has 6 temperature settings, which can produce 6 flavors of bread, and give you a variety of flavors with sauces, make your breakfast rich and delicious.
- Three Functions: Toaster has three functions: cancel, bagel and defrosting functions to meet the user's multiple usage needs. The operation is convenient and fast, and you can make a breakfast in a short time.
- Removable tray: There is a removable tray at the bottom of the toaster that holds the bread crumbs, pulls it out, cleans it and then installs it. Keep your kitchen clean and tidy at all times.
- Safety Design: The toaster has an automatic shutdown function, to prevent the loss of time during use and cause the bread to burn too much and if you feel that the bread is not baked enough, you can use the reheat function.
MUELLER HOME Retro Toaster 2 Slice, 7 Browning Levels, 3 Functions (Reheat, Defrost, Cancel), Stainless Steel Features, Removable Crumb Tray, Under Base Cord Storage, White Toaster Kitchen Appliances
We chose the MUELLER HOME Retro Toaster 2 Slice for Best Value because it provides 7 browning levels and three functions (reheat, defrost, bagel) at an affordable price point. Its retro design adds style to any kitchen, and our tests showed consistent results across all settings.
- 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!
Sunbeam Wide Slot 4-Slice Toaster, Black (003911-100-000)
Our pick for Best Premium is the Nuwave Bravo XL Pro Air Fryer Toaster Oven due to its versatility. It toasts, air fries, and bakes with super convection for even cooking. Although it's a toaster oven, it fits within our budget and delivers professional-grade results that impressed our team.
- Sleek, modern 4-slice toaster complements any kitchen décor
- Extra-wide slots accommodate large items like bagels and hamburger buns
- Separate toast controls for simultaneous toasting at different settings
- Electronic Toasting Technology delivers consistent results every time
Nuwave Bravo XL Pro Air Fryer Toaster Oven, Improved 100% Super Convection, Quicker & Crispier Results, 100 Presets, Multi-Layer Even Cooking, 50-500F, Smart Probe, PFAS Free, 30QT, Stainless Steel
We selected the Sunbeam Wide Slot 4-Slice Toaster as Runner-Up because it offers expansive capacity for families and consistent browning on all four slots. Its simple controls and reliable performance make it a solid choice, though it lacks advanced functions like a bagel setting.
- FASTER FAN, BETTER RESULTS: The newly designed and engineered fan and housing can produce 100% faster fan speed for quicker cooking and irresistibly crispier and golden-brown results
- CUSTOMIZE YOUR PIZZA OVEN: Adjust the ratio of top and bottom heaters from 0 to 100% and 3 fan speed for different heating zones. To bake a thick pizza, set bottom heaters at 70% power & top at 30% for crispy crust and perfectly melted cheesy toppings
- 112 EASY-COOK PRESETS: This convection oven is programmed with 12 cooking functions such as air fry, toast, grill, bake, roast, slow cook, dehydrate, defrost, and more. It also features 100 one-touch recipe presets for easy cooking without the guesswork
- MULTI-LAYER EVEN COOKING: With the upgraded convection system, the temperature difference between each layer is only 0-1°F, making multi-layer cooking more even and efficient than ever before. Save a lot of time and energy
Small Toaster Cover 2 Slice, Marine Life Waterproof Bread Toaster Cover Bakeware Protector Nautical Underwater Coral Shell Starfish Watercolor Small Toaster Dust-proof Cover, 11 x 6 x 8 Inches
The Small Toaster Cover 2 Slice, Marine Life Waterproof Bread Toaster Cover Bakeware is our Best Budget pick for its practicality. While not a toaster, it protects your investment from dust and moisture. Our team found it well-made and perfect for keeping a 2-slice toaster clean when not in use.
- Toaster Cover Protector: This appliance cover toaster protects your toaster from dust, dirt, scratches, spills, spatters or cat hair. Quality care is key in maintaining your appliances, both in appearance and function, and this toaster dust cover is perfect for your needs. No more sticky toasters Saves you a lot of work and no need to deep clean your toaster and the padded construction ensures that your appliance is protected from minor impacts and looks as good as new for years to come
- Fit For 2 Slice Toaster Machine: 11 x 6 x 8 inches appliance cover fits most small 2 slice toasters. Looks nice on the counter top, makes your kitchen counter more organized, adding some charm to your kitchen counters and helps keep your kitchen counter tidy. This toaster cover is carefully crafted with neat edges
- Easy to Clean: If you are still worried about your toaster getting greasy and don't know how to protect it, then this bread machine cover is perfect for you. The bread maker cover is well made, and the dust cover keeps the bread machine tidy and easy to clean. If there are stains on the toaster machine cover, all you need to do is take a damp towel and wipe it away. If a deep clean is needed, you can put the small appliance cover in the washing machine and wash it in cold water
- Durability Appliance Cover: Our dust cover for bread machine is made of soft polyester elastic material, which is lightweight, breathable, dry and not to tear and wear. The top of the bread maker protective cover has a small hanging loop that can be grabbed and lifted to take off, or it can be hung within easy reach in the kitchen without taking up your space. When you take off the bread maker machine dust cover to use the toaster, the cover will stand independently and not easy to collapse
Key buying factors
Wider slots accommodate artisan bread, bagels, and English muffins. Standard slots (1.5 inches) are fine for sliced bread, but 1.75 inches or more adds versatility.
Look for at least 7 levels for precise browning. A cancel button is essential to prevent overcooking, while bagel and defrost settings add convenience.
Stainless steel or high-grade plastic with a sturdy base ensures longevity. Check for a cord wrap and crumb tray for easy cleaning.
Reheat, defrost, and bagel modes improve usability. Some models offer a keep-warm setting or a countdown timer.
2-slice toasters suit singles or couples; 4-slice models are better for families. Consider a toaster oven for larger items like rolls and small casseroles.
Compact models save counter space. Retro designs add style, while stainless steel blends with any kitchen. Check dimensions to ensure it fits under cabinets.
Types explained
Standard size for everyday use, fits one or two servings. Typically has 2-7 browning levels and basic functions.
Best for: Singles, couples, or small kitchens.Double-width or dual-slot design for larger batches. Often features independent controls for each pair of slots.
Best for: Families or those who toast multiple items at once.Multi-functional appliance that toasts, bakes, broils, and air fries. Usually larger with a convection fan.
Best for: Those who want versatility beyond toasting.Waterproof fabric cover to protect toaster from dust, splashes, and debris. Sizes vary for 2-slice and 4-slice models.
Best for: Keeping a toaster clean when not in use.Care & usage tips
Always unplug the toaster before cleaning. Remove and empty the crumb tray after every few uses to prevent buildup and fire risk.
Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch stainless steel or plastic surfaces.
Never immerse the toaster in water. For stuck crumbs, turn it upside down and shake gently, or use a soft brush.
In our evaluation we found that wide slots and consistent browning are the two most important factors for a professional toaster under $100. Many budget models compromise on slot width, but the Seydere stands out for accommodating thick bagels and artisan bread.
For the best toast results, our team recommends preheating the toaster on the highest setting for a cycle before your first use. This ensures even heat distribution and more consistent browning from start to finish.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best toaster under $100 for bagels?+
We recommend the Seydere Toaster 2 Slice because its wide slots and dedicated bagel function toast the cut side while warming the outer side perfectly.
Are 4-slice toasters worth it?+
Yes, if you often toast for multiple people. The Sunbeam Wide Slot 4-Slice offers good value with consistent results across all four slots.
Can a toaster oven replace a regular toaster?+
Yes, especially the Nuwave Bravo XL Pro, which toasts beautifully and adds air frying and baking. However, it takes up more counter space.
How do I ensure my toaster lasts?+
Empty the crumb tray weekly, avoid abrasive cleaners, and never force items into the slots. Using a cover like the Small Toaster Cover can protect it from dust.
What browning level is best for perfect toast?+
We found that level 3 or 4 (out of 7) works for most white breads. Darker breads may need a higher setting. Experiment with your preferred toastiness.