Toasters are a common kitchen appliance found in most homes. They are used to toast bread, waffles, pastries and more. While basic toasters can be purchased for under $20, high-end toasters can cost over $250. What makes certain toasters so expensive and are they worth the cost?
Factors That Increase Toaster Cost
Several factors contribute to the high price tag of premium toasters:
Build Quality
Expensive toasters are made with high quality materials that are meant to last. The exterior is typically stainless steel rather than plastic. Buttons and knobs use metal rather than plastic parts. Better insulation protects internal components. This improves durability and longevity.
Size
Larger toasters with wider slots allow more slices to be toasted at once. Most cheap toasters only have slots for 2 slices, while expensive models may have 4-6 slots. The increased capacity warrants a higher price.
Toasting Technology
Advanced heating elements and design in expensive toasters provide more precise toast control. Options like multiple independent slot controls, variable browning settings, lift controls, one-sided toasting, defrost modes and conveyor belts are only found in high-end models.
Extra Features
Top-of-the-line toasters integrate extra functions like sandwich cages, warming racks, removable crumb trays, LED indicators, shade selection dials and motorized lifts. These improve convenience but also raise costs.
Brand Name
Well known brands like KitchenAid, Cuisinart and Breville command a premium for their reputation. Part of the increased cost accounts for the brand name itself.
Specialized Design
Some expensive toasters have unique designs tailored for specific functions. Long horizontal toasters are made to handle artisan breads and bagels. Compact toasters save counter space, while retro style models are built for aesthetic appeal.
Factors That Don’t Affect Cost
However, many common assumptions about what makes a toaster expensive are false:
Toasting Speed
Faster toasting times don’t necessarily equate to a higher price tag. Inexpensive models can toast just as quickly as expensive ones.
Number of Settings
While advanced features do increase cost, simply having more browning settings does not. Many cheap toasters have just as many (if not more) shades to choose from.
Power Usage
Despite claims, higher wattages and power consumption do not indicate a better toaster. Standard kitchen toasters all use between 700-1600 watts.
Safety Features
Basic safety features like auto shut off and cool touch exteriors are standard in all price ranges. Expensive models do not provide more safety.
Toasting Slots
The number of slots affect price, but wider slots themselves do not. Slot size is more a matter of the type of foods being toasted.
Extra Accessories
Including a tong, crumb tray or cord storage does not change the cost much. These accessories are inexpensive for manufacturers to add.
Key Differences Between Inexpensive and Expensive Models
To illustrate how premium toasters differ from budget ones, here is a comparison of two models – one under $30 and one over $250:
| Feature | Inexpensive Toaster | Expensive Toaster |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Oster | Breville |
| Model | 2-Slice Toaster | Die-Cast 4-Slice Toaster |
| Cost | $25 | $270 |
| Slices | 2 | 4 |
| Construction | Plastic | Brushed Stainless Steel |
| Toast Settings | 7 | 6 + Lift/Lower Function |
| Extra Features | None | LED Panel, Motorized Lift, Warming Rack |
| Slot Size | Standard | Wide for Bagels |
| Cord Storage | No | Yes |
As shown, the expensive toaster justifies its higher price with more slots, a high-quality steel build, useful extra features like a warming rack, and conveniences like motorized lift and cord storage. The inexpensive toaster lacks these premium details but still provides the basics.
Are expensive toasters worth it?
Whether it’s worth investing in a high-end toaster depends on your needs:
Worth It If You:
- Toast many slices at once for large families
- Want precise shade control with advanced technology
- Prefer a solid, durable stainless steel exterior
- Will use extra functions like racks and defrost modes
- Appreciate conveniences like motorized lift and LEDs
May Not Be Worth It If You:
- Live alone or have small household
- Are happy with standard toast doneness settings
- Don’t need a lot of extra features
- Prefer a cheaper price tag
- Only occasionally make toast
The bottom line is expensive toasters deliver conveniences and durability for frequent toast makers. But casual users may not take advantage of the bells and whistles. Consider how often you use a toaster and which features are must-haves vs. simply nice-to-haves.
Top 5 Expensive Toaster Models
For those willing to splurge on premium toasting, here are 5 of the best high-end toaster options:
1. Breville Die-Cast 4-Slice Toaster
– Stainless steel exterior with scratch-resistant finish
– LCD display and motorized lift
– 1-Touch buttons for Lift & Look and A Bit More
– $270
2. Dualit 4 Slice NewGen Toaster
– Iconic British brand since 1945
– Replaceable ProHeat elements extend life
– Extra-wide 28mm slots
– $365
3. Balmuda The Toaster
– Futuristic smooth curves design
– Steam keeps bread moist
– Built-in tray catches crumbs
– $329
4. KitchenAid 2 Slice Long Slot Toaster
– Extra long slots for artisanal breads
– Ceramic-coated sides stay cool
– High lift lever is easy to use
– $200
5. SMEG 2 Slice Retro Toaster
– Vintage 1950s Italinan style
– Chrome and enamel exterior
– Self-centering racks
– $150-$200
While not cheap, these toasters provide excellent build quality, top-tier performance and stylish design. The investment may be worth it for design enthusiasts or avid bakers needing a capable, durable toaster.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, expensive toasters are a luxury, not a necessity. They offer perks like more slots, stronger construction, precise shade control and built-in conveniences. For light use or basic toasting, these features may be overkill. But for design aficionados, performance purists or large households, premium toasters can be worthwhile. Consider how often you use a toaster and which specific features appeal to your needs to decide if paying more merits the benefits. For most, a quality mid-priced toaster around $75 is the sweet spot combining solid performance with value. But if burnt toast ruins your day or you believe the best is yet to come, then consider investing in an expensive toaster built to toast.
