Overall Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5
The Smeg Retro 2-Slice Toaster blends iconic style with dependable performance, making every breakfast a little more special. With its sleek design and consistently even toasting, it’s as much a countertop statement piece as it is a kitchen essential.
If your kitchen aesthetic could use an upgrade, the Smeg Retro Toaster delivers it’s a statement piece that elevates your countertop while delivering consistently perfect toast, every time.
Ease of Use — ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5
With six browning presets and dedicated bagel, defrost, and cancel buttons encircling a sleek knob, using it is intuitive and satisfying. The removable crumb tray makes cleanup worry-free.
Performance — ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 / 5
This toaster aces every test: even browning on white bread, artisanal sourdough, and bagels that come out crunchy on the cut side and perfectly chewy on the back.
Design & Build Quality — ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 / 5
Smeg’s retro 1950s-style design is iconic. Glossy finishes in vibrant colors make it more than an appliance, it’s décor. The build feels solid, with thoughtful details like a self-centering slot design and a satisfying lever.
Features — ⭐⭐⭐ 3.5 / 5
Includes six browning levels, bagel/defrost modes, and a cool-touch exterior. However, it lacks advanced smart features or leverless mechanisms found on higher-end toasters. Still, the elegance of its simplicity shines.
Value for Money — ⭐⭐⭐ 3 / 5
Priced steeply—three to four times more expensive than basic models it’s a luxury splurge. For design-conscious users, the visual impact and high-quality results can justify the cost.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Elegant retro design boosts kitchen aesthetics | Quite expensive compared to basic models |
| Consistently even toasting, great for bagels | Glossy finish shows fingerprints easily |
| Intuitive controls & easy-to-use crumb tray | Large footprint for a 2-slot toaster |
| Solid build with long-slot design | Some durable concerns reported over time |
Final Thoughts
The Smeg Retro Toaster is more than just a way to brown bread it’s a beauty accessory for your kitchen. It delivers consistent, high-quality toasting and stands out with its iconic design. If you value style and performance (and don’t mind splurging), it’s a delightful indulgence. For most people, though, there are more affordable toasters that perform just as well but without the flair.
Affiliate Disclosure
If you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.