9 Best Energy Star Toaster 2026 in the United States

The Breville Joule Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines multiple functionalities, including air frying, dehydrating, and traditional baking. Its standout feature is the Element IQ system, which ensures precise cooking by distributing power where needed. The oven also offers 13 pre-set cooking functions, making it user-friendly for a variety of cooking tasks. The guided recipes and voice activation with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa add convenience, especially for busy home cooks.

Additionally, the Joule Autopilot feature automates multi-step cooking processes, allowing for a hands-free experience. The app connectivity enables remote monitoring and progress notifications, making it easy to keep track of your cooking from anywhere. Constructed with brushed stainless steel, this oven is both durable and stylish, fitting well into modern kitchens.

However, it is important to note that this product is relatively heavy at 38.9 pounds, which may make it less portable. Also, it requires an AC adapter for power, which could be a limitation for users with limited outlet availability. While the oven offers many advanced features, its primary function as a toaster might be overshadowed by its extensive capabilities, potentially making it more suitable for users looking for a multifunctional appliance rather than a straightforward toaster. Finally, the price point and complexity might be higher than traditional toasters, which could be a drawback for users seeking simplicity.

The Cuisinart CPT-435P1 4-Slice Countdown Motorized Toaster offers practical features for those looking for a versatile and well-designed toaster. It has four wide slots at 1.5 inches each, which is useful for various bread types, including bagels. The digital shade control with seven settings allows for precise browning control, catering to different preferences from light to dark toast. The multiple toasting functions, including toast, bagel, defrost, reheat, and cancel, address a broad range of toasting needs efficiently.

Additionally, the high lift lever ensures safe retrieval of smaller items without burning fingers, which is a nice safety feature. The toaster’s compact design helps it fit neatly into kitchen spaces, and the removable crumb tray makes cleaning up a breeze, along with a cord wrap underneath for managing power cords tidily. Made from stainless steel, the toaster is durable and has a sleek, modern look that suits many kitchen styles.

Potential concerns include the motorized lift mechanism, which may be prone to wear over time, and the LCD may not be as intuitive for all users. Although it has a BPA-free label and a three-year warranty, it does not specifically mention an energy-star rating, which might be a consideration for eco-conscious buyers. The weight of 7.1 pounds may make it less convenient to move around. This toaster could be a great fit for families or individuals who need to toast multiple items at once and desire a range of functionalities in a sturdy, stylish appliance.

The KitchenAid KMT2115SX is a reliable two-slice toaster with extra-wide slots that handle thicker breads, bagels, and English muffins with ease. Its special bagel setting gently toasts the inside while keeping the outside from getting too dark, which is great if you enjoy bagels. The adjustable browning control offers five levels, allowing you to get your toast from light to dark according to your preference. A high lift lever makes it easy to remove smaller pieces without burning your fingers, and the removable crumb tray helps keep your kitchen cleaner, although it requires hand washing.

Made from brushed stainless steel, this toaster has a sturdy, classic look that fits most kitchens and is easy to wipe down. It weighs just under 5 pounds, making it stable but not too heavy to move. It does not include a dedicated defrost or reheat function, so it may not fully meet the needs of those who frequently toast frozen bread or want quick reheating. The toaster includes a cancel button for safety, providing basic protection during use.

Operating at 900 watts, it balances efficient heating with reasonable energy use. This model is well suited for straightforward, durable use primarily with bagels and everyday bread. For those seeking more specialized functions or larger capacity, exploring other options might be advisable.