Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Toasters

bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster, Fits-anywhere™ Kitchenware, 6 Setting Shade Control vs Elite Gourmet 2-Slice Cool Touch Toaster – 6 Browning Levels, Extra Wide 1.25” S

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster, Fits-anywhere™ Kitchenware, 6 Setting Shade Control comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.3 vs 4.0). The gap is mostly about minimalist users with limited counter space — read the strengths below before deciding.

bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster, Fits-anywhere™ Kitchenware, 6 Setting Shade Control
Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Toasters
bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster, Fits-anywhere™ Kitchenware, 6 Setting Shade Control
$19.98as of Jul 8

The Bella 2-Slice Slim Toaster excels in space-saving design and delivers consistent medium-setting toasting performance, according to TechGearLab's review. Its extra-long slot and six-shade controls are praised, but the lack of specialized functions like bagel or frozen food settings limits versatility. RTINGS.com noted its compact footprint and matte finish, while The Kitchn highlighted its ability to handle artisan breads without crowding counters. This toaster is ideal for small kitchens or minimalist users who prioritize counter space over advanced features.

Strengths
  • Slim 3.58" width design saves counter space
  • Extra-long slot fits two slices side-by-side and accommodates thick breads and baguettes
  • Six-setting shade control with cancel function for precise toasting
Watch-outs
  • Lacks dedicated bagel or frozen food settings
  • Performance is limited at light and dark shade settings
Elite Gourmet 2-Slice Cool Touch Toaster – 6 Browning Levels, Extra Wide 1.25” S
Ranked #4 in Best Toasters
Elite Gourmet 2-Slice Cool Touch Toaster – 6 Browning Levels, Extra Wide 1.25” S
$15.99as of Jul 8

The Elite Gourmet 2-Slice Cool Touch Toaster offers reliable, even toasting with 6 browning levels and extra-wide 1.25" slots ideal for bagels and thick breads. Reviewers praise its compact design, cool-touch exterior, and convenient cancel function. However, the lightweight polycarbonate build leads some users to perceive it as inexpensive, and a few note issues with very large bagels not fitting properly. Best suited for small spaces and light-to-moderate use, it's not recommended for heavy daily household demand.

Strengths
  • 6 adjustable toasting levels for precise browning control
  • Extra wide 1.25" slots accommodate thick breads, bagels, and specialty items
  • Cool-touch exterior for safe handling
Watch-outs
  • Lightweight plastic construction feels cheap compared to metal-bodied toasters
  • Self-centering guides may not work well with very large or dense bagels

How they stack up

bella 2 Slice Slim Toaster, Fits-anywhere™ Kitchenware, 6 Setting Shade Control

The Bella Slim Toaster is space-saving and performs well on medium settings, but it lacks the specialized features of the Elite Gourmet or Breville models. While it's ideal for small kitchens, it doesn't offer the same level of browning control or bagel accommodation as the Elite Gourmet, which provides more precise shade settings.

Elite Gourmet 2-Slice Cool Touch Toaster – 6 Browning Levels, Extra Wide 1.25” S

The Elite Gourmet toaster offers precise 6 browning levels and cool-touch exterior, but its lightweight plastic build makes it less durable than the Breville 'A Bit More' or Proctor Silex models. While it's a good option for light use, it lacks the consistent performance and robust construction that the Breville delivers, especially in medium to dark settings.

Specs side-by-side

Specbella 2 Slice Slim Toaster, Fits-anywhere™ Kitchenware, 6 Setting Shade ControlElite Gourmet 2-Slice Cool Touch Toaster – 6 Browning Levels, Extra Wide 1.25” S
Price$25$15.99
Slices22
Settings6 settings6
FunctionsNo bagel or frozen food functionstoasting bread, bagels, English muffins and more
MaterialPlastic, Stainless SteelPolycarbonate
Dimensions6.85" D x 3.58" W x 14.88" H5.75" D x 9.25" W x 6.25" H
Wattage750 W
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