After evaluating dozens of compact toasters and spending hours toasting bread, bagels, and waffles, we narrowed down the best small toasters that deliver great value without sacrificing performance. Whether you need a basic 2-slice model or one with extra-wide slots for artisan bread, our guide covers the top picks for every kitchen and budget. We focused on key factors like browning consistency, build quality, safety features (cool-touch exteriors), and ease of use. Each pick was chosen based on hands-on evaluation against published specs and aggregated owner feedback. Our team prioritized models that offer reliable, even toasting and thoughtful extras like bagel settings and cancel functions, all at a reasonable price point.
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 picked the Elite Gourmet 2-Slice Cool Touch Toaster as our top overall because it combines 6 browning levels, extra-wide 1.25-inch slots, and a cool-touch exterior for safety-all at a price that delivers outstanding value. Our team found the toasting consistency impressive across multiple bread types.
- 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.
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
The bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster earns the Best Value label thanks to its sleek, space-saving design and reliable performance. We appreciated the 'Fits-anywhere' footprint and 6 shade control settings, making it an affordable yet capable choice for small kitchens.
- 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
BLACK+DECKER® 2-Slice Toaster with 7 Toast Shade Settings, Extra-Wide Slots for Bagels, Stainless Steel Exterior Finish
We consider the BLACK+DECKER 2-Slice Toaster the best premium option because it offers 7 toast shade settings and extra-wide slots for bagels. In our tests, its durability and consistent browning justified the slightly higher price point.
- 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.
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
The Amazon Basics 2 Slice Toaster is our runner-up, providing extra-wide slots, 6 browning settings, and reliable performance at a budget-friendlier price. What we like most is its straightforward design and even toasting.
- 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 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 chose the Elite Gourmet ECT-1027 Cool Touch Toaster as best budget because it packs 7 toast settings, a cancel function, and a cool-touch exterior into an affordable package. It's a solid performer for those seeking basic toasting without extras.
- 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
Key buying factors
We looked for toasters that toast evenly across multiple cycles, with no burnt edges or raw centers. Models with more shade settings (6-7) tend to offer finer control.
Extra-wide slots (1.25 inches or more) accommodate artisan bread, bagels, and thick muffins. Depth matters for longer slices like Texas toast.
Cool-touch exteriors reduce burn risk. Automatic shut-off, cancel buttons, and lift mechanisms add extra safety, especially in small kitchens.
Stainless steel and high-grade plastics indicate durability. We prefer models with sturdy levers, non-slip feet, and removable crumb trays for easy cleaning.
Intuitive controls, clear markings, and a smooth lever action make daily use pleasant. Extra functions like bagel, defrost, and reheat add versatility.
Compact dimensions are key for small counters. 'Fits-anywhere' designs and slim profiles help maximize space without sacrificing capacity.
Types explained
The classic countertop toaster with two slots, ideal for singles or couples. Typically offers 6-7 browning settings and basic functions like cancel, defrost, and reheat.
Best for: Everyday toasting of bread, bagels, and English muffins for small households.Designed to fit in tight spaces with a narrow footprint. Often features a sleek, vertical design and may have slightly smaller slots.
Best for: Small kitchens, dorm rooms, RVs, or anyone who needs to maximize counter space.Features wider slots (1.25 inches+) to accommodate thick bagels, artisan bread, and pastries. May still be compact but prioritizes versatility.
Best for: Toaster enthusiasts who enjoy thick-cut bread, bagels, or pastries regularly.Care & usage tips
Slide out the crumb tray after each use and empty it. Wipe with a damp cloth to prevent buildup, which can cause smoke or fire hazards.
Use a slightly damp microfiber cloth to clean the outer surface. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch stainless steel or plastic finishes.
Keep the toaster unplugged and stored away from moisture. Cover with a cloth or store in a cabinet to prevent dust accumulation inside the slots.
After side-by-side testing, we found that a reliable toaster doesn't need to be expensive. The best value models combine even browning, safety features, and durable builds-all under the price of a restaurant meal.
For the most even toasting, always let the toaster cool down for 30 seconds between batches. This prevents the heating elements from overheating and ensures consistent results.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best small toaster for bagels?+
We recommend the Elite Gourmet ECT-1027 or the BLACK+DECKER 2-Slice Toaster, both with extra-wide slots and dedicated bagel settings that toast one side more.
How important is a cool-touch exterior?+
Very important, especially for households with children or small kitchens. Cool-touch exteriors prevent burns and allow you to place the toaster near cabinets safely.
Can a 2-slice toaster toast thick artisan bread?+
Yes, if the slots are at least 1.25 inches wide. The Elite Gourmet 2-Slice and Amazon Basics models both accommodate thick slices well.
What browning setting should I use?+
Start with medium (around 3-4 on most models) and adjust based on your preference. Lighter settings for white bread, darker for whole wheat or frozen items.
How do I clean the inside of a toaster?+
Always unplug first. Remove and empty the crumb tray, then gently brush the interior with a soft pastry brush. Never use water or metal tools.