Sage the Smart Toast 2 Slice Toaster (BTA825)

Sage's Smart Toast is the feature champion of this list. A motorised lift lowers and raises the toast so nothing shoots out when it is done, while the Lift & Look function raises the toast to check browning without cancelling the cycle, and A Bit More adds a short extra burst if it comes up too pale. The extra-wide, self-centring slots suit thick and uneven slices, and there are crumpet/fruit-loaf and defrost modes plus an LED progress indicator. Reviewers consistently praise its even results and ease of use. Against the Dualit at number one, you gain far more automation and convenience for a lower price of around £130; what you give up is the Dualit's hand-built repairability, as the Sage is a more conventional sealed appliance. It is the pick to choose if you want the smartest everyday experience rather than the longest-lived machine.