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Welcome to Skimm Tested, where we put products to the test and then give 'em a report card. (Check out all of our tried-and-tested faves here.)
The assignment…
To see if the Smeg ’50s Retro-Style Two-Slice Toaster is truly worth its three-figure price tag.
Straight A’s in…
Toasting to perfection. The primary job of a toaster is, of course, to toast well. And we’ve got no complaints in that department. This one uses a dial with very precise measurements so it’s easy to toast anything exactly to your preference. The slots are also wide enough to easily toast even the fluffiest bagel.
Being easy to clean. It’s got a stainless steel crumb tray that’s smooth to remove and empty out, and the powder-coated steel outer of the toaster is easy to wipe clean if need be.
Quality. The Smeg two-slice toaster is solid and sturdy, and so far has held up with regular use for two years without a single issue. It also has chrome details where many other toasters use stainless steel, like the base and backlit knob.
Aesthetics. Smeg is well-known for its line of retro-inspired appliances both big and small. Whether you’re going for a ‘50s vibe in your kitchen or not, the toaster is an eye-catching piece that’ll fit in with whatever else you’ve got going on. It’s available in several colorways, including neutral ones, bright shades, and metallic finishes.
Room for growth…
Price. An obvious one, but we wish the Smeg toaster were just a tad cheaper, of course — though we realize the brand is synonymous with premium-priced, quality appliances.
Cord. Given the Smeg’s high price tag, we also would love if the cord were retractable. (Note that it does have a built-in cord wrap design under the base to keep things tidy on your counter.)
Works best for…
Those who regularly use a toaster and want to invest in a high-quality appliance.
Anyone looking for a top-tier housewarming gift (or birthday or graduation gift, or to celebrate anything else).
People who appreciate kitchen tools and appliances with a vintage design.
Gets extra credit for…
Being available in several fun colors, including pastels and metallics, as well as both shiny and matte options. (We’re partial to the pastel green option, which happens to coordinate perfectly with our similarly colored Dash appliances.)
Having “bagel,” “defrost,” and “reheat” (i.e., if your bread isn’t properly toasted on the first go) functions.
How we did our homework…
One Skimm HQ’r has used this Smeg toaster regularly for nearly two years, for both standard slices of bread as well as thicker ones and bagels. She’s taken into consideration how well the appliance toasts a variety of breads, how easy the crumb tray is to empty out and clean, and the general functionality of the toaster.
Footnotes:
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