KitchenAid 2-Slice Toaster with Illuminated Button, Contour Silver

I've always had toasters from the big box stores, so when I had the opportunity to get this one, I wasn't sure what to expect. What it is, is amazing. First, it is STOUT! It has some real heft to it and feels substantial. Second, the dial to determine how light/dark to make your bagels or toast, actually works. Third, the bagel button actually makes the toaster cook the bagel evenly throughout. The thing that will really surprise you is the loud 'Beep' when it is done. It seemed a bit much at first, but it is a great reminder that, when I'm chasing after my two kiddos, that the toaster is ready! I can't believe how excited I am by a toaster, but I guess after having the cheapest, it's nice to move up and have something that works like it says it does. Well done, Kitchen Aid, well done!

Takes 5 minutes to toast. One side burns while the other is too light. The coils take 3 minutes to turn red. I expected better for the price.

I've been using this toaster for a few months now but have yet to figure out how to keep my toast from getting "hard". Never had a toaster that produced hard toast - while not burning it. This is the case whether I'm toasting bread or English muffins. My guess is that because the toasting cycle is a few seconds longer than my other toasters (yes, I have 3 toasters of different brands!), it dries out the bread. I have a friend who says she likes her toast this way so perhaps this would be a good choice if you prefer hard toast.

I love my new toaster. It’s easy to use, easy to clean and matches everything else I have from Kitchenaid.