Best Toasters UK (2026)
A toaster is a simple appliance, but slot depth, even browning and how long it lasts vary a lot between models. This guide compares toasters picked by Mumsnet, from a budget 4-slice option under £30 to premium models built to last for decades.
We have not hands-on tested these products. Our picks are based on published independent tests and reviews, listed at the bottom of this page. How we pick.
Our top pick
Dualit NewGen Toaster
Best overall / longevity
Mumsnet's overall pick, praised for its sleek design and Peek and Pop feature that lets you check toast without cancelling the cycle. Owners report it lasting for decades, though it is expensive.
- Sleek design
- Variable settings for different foods
- Peek and Pop feature
Quick comparison
| Product | Best for | Key spec | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dualit NewGen Toaster | Best overall / longevity | 2 or 4 slice, variable settings, 1200W | Check price |
| Cookworks Long-Slot Four-Slice Toaster | Best budget | 4 slice, £25, 1400W | Check price |
| Russell Hobbs Inspire Toaster | Best mid-range value | 2 or 4 slice, £23-£45, 1050W | Check price |
| Breville VTT981 Edge Two-Slice Toaster | Best for thick bread | 2 slice, deep slots, £48 | Check price |
| Sage Smart Two-Slice Toaster | Best for features | 2 or 4 slice, £139-£160, wide slots | Check price |
| De'Longhi Icona Metallics Four-Slice Toaster | Best retro style | 4 slice, £115, 1800W | Check price |
| KitchenAid Breakfast Suite 2-Slice Toaster | Best for homemade bread | 2 slice, £143, wide slots | Check price |
Our picks in detail
Best overall / longevity
Dualit NewGen Toaster
Mumsnet's overall pick, praised for its sleek design and Peek and Pop feature that lets you check toast without cancelling the cycle. Owners report it lasting for decades, though it is expensive.
- Type
- 2-slice (£175) or 4-slice (£220)
- Power
- 1200W
- Settings
- Variable
Pros
- Sleek design
- Variable settings for different foods
- Peek and Pop feature
- Reported to last for decades
Cons
- High price
- Peek and Pop struggles with thick crumpets
Best budget
Cookworks Long-Slot Four-Slice Toaster
A very affordable long-slot toaster that fits large slices and pitta bread, with seven settings, though the design is basic.
- Type
- 4-slice
- Price guide
- About £25
- Power
- 1400W
- Settings
- Seven
Pros
- Affordable
- Accommodates large slices and pitta bread
- Multiple toast settings
Cons
- Basic design
Best mid-range value
Russell Hobbs Inspire Toaster
A stylish, easy-to-use toaster with even toasting and good value across its price range, though it struggles with larger bread slices.
- Type
- 2-slice or 4-slice
- Price guide
- About £23-£45 (on sale)
- Power
- 1050W
- Settings
- Five
Pros
- Stylish design
- Easy to use
- Even toasting
- Good value
Cons
- Struggles with larger bread slices
Best for thick bread
Breville VTT981 Edge Two-Slice Toaster
A toaster with deep slots designed for tall slices, with a lift-and-look feature and brushed stainless steel finish, though the casing gets very hot.
- Type
- 2-slice
- Price guide
- About £48
- Power
- 1050W
- Settings
- Variable
Pros
- Deep slots for thick or tall slices
- Brushed stainless steel finish
- Lift-and-look feature
Cons
- Casing gets very hot
- Some durability concerns
Best for features
Sage Smart Two-Slice Toaster
A high-tech toaster with a Quick Look setting and wide slots for even browning, at a premium price.
- Type
- 2-slice or 4-slice
- Price guide
- About £139-£160
- Power
- 1000W
- Settings
- Variable
Pros
- Quick Look setting
- Sleek design
- Wide slots
- Even browning
Cons
- Expensive
Best retro style
De'Longhi Icona Metallics Four-Slice Toaster
A stylish retro-look toaster with a browning control dial and bagel, defrost and reheat settings, though it is bulky and the outer slots can toast unevenly.
- Type
- 4-slice
- Price guide
- About £115
- Power
- 1800W
- Settings
- Six
Pros
- Stylish retro design
- Browning control dial
- Bagel, defrost and reheat settings
Cons
- Bulky
- Outer slots sometimes uneven
- Pricey
Best for homemade bread
KitchenAid Breakfast Suite 2-Slice Toaster
A stylish toaster with wide slots and seven settings that toasts quickly, well suited to varied and homemade bread, at a high price.
- Type
- 2-slice
- Price guide
- About £143
- Settings
- Seven
Pros
- Quick toasting
- Wide slots
- Variety of settings
- Stylish finish
Cons
- High price point
Buying guide
2-slice or 4-slice toaster?
A 2-slice toaster suits one or two people and takes up less counter space. A 4-slice toaster, or a long-slot model, suits families or anyone who often toasts more than two slices, bagels, or pitta bread at once.
What settings actually matter?
A wide browning range helps you get everything from lightly toasted to well-done. Dedicated bagel, defrost and reheat settings are useful if you eat those regularly, but add cost if you never use them.
Are expensive toasters worth it?
Premium toasters like the Dualit are built to last for many years and often toast more evenly, which can make the cost per year lower than replacing a cheap toaster every couple of years. A budget toaster is still fine for occasional or light use.
How do I keep a toaster in good condition?
Empty and clean the crumb tray regularly to reduce fire risk and keep toasting even, and unplug it before cleaning.
Sources
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