SMEG TSF01 2-Slice Wide-Slot Toaster review

The SMEG 2 Slice is a modern toaster with a retro look. It gave us great results with bagels and would look at home on any kitchen counter.

Smeg 2 Slice TSF01PGUS Toaster being tested in writer's home
(Image: © Future)

Top Ten Reviews Verdict

This toaster is an attractive machine that performs well on low settings.

Pros

  • +

    Stylish design

  • +

    Excellent bagel toasting

  • +

    Removable crumb tray

  • +

    Variety of settings

  • +

    Durable

Cons

  • -

    Runs hot

  • -

    Requires precision

  • -

    Crumb tray located at the back

  • -

    Expensive

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The SMEG 2 Slice is a modern toaster with an old-fashioned look. Its classic design would seem normal in a 1960s kitchen. Available in eight colors, the SMEG 2 Slice can fit in with any kitchen decor. It comes in cream, red, black, chrome, blue, pink, pastel blue, and pastel green. Though retro in appearance, this unit has many features found on the best toasters, such as a removable crumb tray and a reheat setting. However, as cool as this colored toaster looks, it had a toasting issue.

Smeg 2 Slice TSF01PGUS: Setup

You don't have to worry about setting up the SMEG 2 Slice toaster. I place it on a stable, flat surface near an outlet. I make sure there's enough ventilation around the toaster. Plug it in and choose how browny I want. I let it reach a steady temperature for optimal performance before using it. If I want to toast bagels, I just adjust the settings.

Finally, I regularly check and empty the crumb tray to keep my SMEG toaster running smoothly.

Smeg 2 Slice TSF01PGUS: Design & features

The toaster is a stylish addition to any kitchen with its striking retro design that evokes the 1960s. It comes in eight vibrant colors—cream, red, black, chrome, blue, pink, pastel blue, and pastel green—and goes seamlessly with any kitchen decor. Its glossy finish and clean lines add a little elegance to the countertops.

In terms of features, this toaster is equipped with a removable crumb tray, making maintenance easy and hassle-free. It also has a reheat setting, so I can warm toast without overcooking it. While it has high power, it requires careful attention to the settings, especially at lower levels, to ensure the bread doesn't burn. The design combines functionality and aesthetics, so it's perfect for people who like their appliances to be stylish and practical.

Smeg 2 Slice TSF01PGUS: Performance

The SMEG 2 Slice toaster has clear strengths and weaknesses. It excels in certain tests, especially the bagel function, where it consistently produces perfect results, proving its effectiveness when used correctly. The high power, however, can have a downside. When I started toasting with the middle setting, I often got burnt toast instead of golden toast. Consistency tests showed consecutive slices getting darker as well.

I have to lower the setting to just below halfway whenever I toast to get better results. Once adjusted, the toaster can do well, but I have to keep a close eye on it. Another critical performance aspect is the exterior heat generated while it's running. SMEG toaster has an average external temperature of 127.9 degrees Fahrenheit, much higher than most competitors, so you must be careful.

Would I buy the Smeg 2 Slice TSF01PGUS?

The SMEG 2 Slice is a chic toaster that will stand out on your countertop. With numerous colors to choose from, you can find the perfect addition to your kitchen. Although it runs hot while toasting, you can address this using a low setting. However, avoid touching the toaster until it's cooled off.

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Test results
AttributeNotesScore
Setupsimple and straightforward8/10
Designstriking retro design; removable crumb tray and a reheat setting9/10
Performancemixed results; excels in toasting bagels; tends to burn toast at mid-settings7/10
Aaron McCarter
TTR Contributor, Small Appliances

Aaron McCarter has been actively involved in testing various products for Top Ten Reviews, including toasters. He has since shifted his focus to writing for a marketing firm in Utah. Alongside his experience in product testing, Aaron holds an MBA from Utah Valley University and has a passion for travel and assessing hotel sites.