KitchenAid 2-Slice Review

The KitchenAid 2-Slice toaster is a popular choice for those who want a reliable, attractive countertop appliance. Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback and key decision factors to give you an honest review. This toaster is designed for small households, but it comes with a premium price tag. Is it worth it? Read on to find out.

Design and Build Quality

The KitchenAid 2-Slice features a die-cast metal body that feels solid and durable. It is available in several colors, including matte black, empire red, and cream, so you can match your kitchen decor. The exterior has a soft-touch finish that resists fingerprints, a nice touch for a countertop appliance.

The toaster has a motorized lift that raises the toast smoothly and automatically when the cycle is done. This feature is handy for shorter users or those with limited reach. The LED indicators around the controls light up to show the selected setting, making it easy to see in low light.

Performance and Toasting Consistency

With 900 watts of power, the toaster heats up quickly and toasts evenly. The seven shade settings range from light to dark, and most users find that setting three or four works well for standard white bread. The extra-wide slots measure about 1.5 inches, so you can toast thick bagels, artisan bread, and even waffles without cramming them in.

In terms of consistency, the toaster does a good job of browning both slices evenly. Some users report that the first toast of the day may be slightly uneven, but that is common with many toasters. The defrost and reheat functions are straightforward: defrost thaws frozen bread and toasts it, while reheat warms up already-toasted bread without further browning.

Ease of Use

The controls are intuitive: a dial for selecting shade, a lever to lower the toast (or you can let the motorized lift do it), and buttons for defrost, reheat, and cancel. The motorized lift is a standout feature, as it raises the toast high enough to grab easily, even with thick slices. The cancel button stops the cycle immediately, which is useful if you need to interrupt.

One minor drawback is the absence of a bagel mode. If you often toast bagels, you'll have to use the regular setting and accept that the cut side will toast more than the outside. Some users find this a dealbreaker, but others don't mind.

Cleaning and Maintenance

The toaster has a removable crumb tray located at the bottom. It slides out for easy disposal of crumbs. However, the tray is relatively shallow, so you need to be careful not to spill crumbs when removing it. The exterior can be wiped with a damp cloth, but avoid using abrasive cleaners that could scratch the finish.

Because the slots are wide, you can also turn the toaster upside down over a sink to shake out any stubborn crumbs, but do that only when the toaster is cool and unplugged.

Common Buyer Complaints

While the majority of reviews are positive, some common complaints emerge. The lack of a bagel mode is mentioned frequently. A few users also note that the toaster runs a bit hot, so the exterior becomes warm to the touch, though not dangerously so. The price is another point of contention, as it is higher than many basic 2-slice toasters.

Additionally, some users report that the motorized lift can be slow, adding a few seconds to the toasting process. However, this is often seen as a trade-off for the convenience it provides.

Comparison with Alternatives

When compared to the Cuisinart CPT-122, which is a budget-friendly 2-slice toaster, the KitchenAid offers a more premium build and the motorized lift, but the Cuisinart has a bagel mode and is cheaper. The Breville BTA720XL is a higher-end option with more advanced features like a 'A Bit More' button and a longer slot, but it costs significantly more.

For those who need a 4-slice capacity, the KitchenAid 4-Slice model is a natural upgrade, offering similar features with two extra slots. However, it takes up more counter space.

Value and Verdict

The KitchenAid 2-Slice is a well-made toaster that performs reliably and looks great on the counter. It is best suited for individuals, couples, or small families who toast a few slices a day and appreciate a sturdy appliance. The lack of a bagel mode and the higher price may deter some buyers, but if you value build quality and the motorized lift, it is a solid investment.

Check the current price on Amazon to see if it fits your budget.