Breville Bit More Toaster BTA720XL Review Compact 2-Slice Performance and Innovative Features

Description

Sleek Design and Build Quality

The Breville Bit More Toaster 2 Slice BTA70XL immediately caught my eye with its brushed stainless steel finish. It feels sturdy, and the compact design fits perfectly on my kitchen counter without taking up too much space. The dimensions of 7.3″ D x 11.3″ W x 8.2″ H make it ideal for smaller kitchens or minimalist setups. I also appreciate the classic style that blends well with various kitchen aesthetics. The LED display, which adds a modern touch, isn’t just about looks but also enhances usability.

The toaster’s build quality is apparent from the moment you touch it. It weighs about 5.1 pounds, which gives it a solid, well-built feel, unlike cheaper, flimsier models. While testing, I noticed that the high-quality stainless steel material resists smudging and is easy to clean, which is a big plus for busy mornings. The design is not just functional but genuinely elevates the countertop.

Intuitive and User-Friendly Features

Using this toaster feels like stepping into the future of toasting. The “Lift & Look” function is a game-changer. No more burning my toast because I can quickly lift the slices to check progress without stopping the cycle. Equally impressive is the “A Bit More” feature, which lets you extend the toasting time by just a tad. I’ll admit, I’ve always struggled with getting the perfect level of browning, but this option has eliminated any guesswork.

Additionally, it handles larger artisanal bread and thick bagels effortlessly thanks to its wide slots. I tested it on everything from thin sandwich bread to dense pastries, and the results were consistent. The variable browning control with six settings makes it adaptable to different preferences in my household. My partner prefers a light golden toast, while I like mine darker, and this toaster caters to both without compromise.

The bagel function ensures that only one side of the bagel gets toasted, leaving the other side soft and warm—perfect for a proper bagel experience. The defrost option is another thoughtful addition, allowing me to toast frozen bread directly without pre-thawing. These features make it incredibly user-friendly for people with varied toasting needs.

Pros

Positive Features of this toaster stand out clearly:

• “Lift & Look” and “A Bit More” features for better control.
• Wide slots accommodate different bread types, including bagels and pastries.
• Variable browning control ensures everyone gets toast to their liking.
• Compact size fits into most kitchens without hogging counter space.
• Stainless steel finish is both stylish and durable.

Cleaning and Maintenance Made Simple

Cleaning is often a chore, but this toaster makes it surprisingly easy. The front crumb tray slides out smoothly, allowing me to empty it without lifting the entire toaster. This small detail has saved me so much time, especially on weekdays when I’m rushing out the door. The stainless steel surface also wipes clean effortlessly, and I haven’t noticed any discoloration or damage even after multiple uses.

Downsides

While the toaster has many merits, there are a few Areas of Concern:

• The LED display is not very bright, making it slightly hard to read in direct sunlight.
• The toaster’s exterior can get warm after extended use, which might be a safety concern if you have kids around.
• It lacks more advanced toasting modes seen in some premium models.

These flaws are minor but worth mentioning for those who value these aspects in a toaster.

Competing Products

When comparing this toaster to other brands like Cuisinart and KitchenAid, a few distinctions become evident. The Cuisinart CPT-180 offers comparable durability and a dual-control panel, which is great for families who want independent settings for two slots. However, the Breville surpasses it with the “Lift & Look” and “A Bit More” features, which feel more intuitive for daily use.

On the other hand, the KitchenAid KMT2115 is slightly cheaper and provides decent toasting capabilities, but it lacks the LED progress indicator that I found invaluable on the Breville model. If you prioritize more precise control and modern features, the Breville toaster stands out. That said, the KitchenAid might appeal to those seeking simplicity at a lower cost.

Smart Spending

In terms of Value for Money, this toaster delivers on its promises. While it’s not the cheapest option available, the combination of innovative features, durable materials, and thoughtful design makes it worth the investment. Compared to budget toasters that often fail after a few months or deliver uneven results, this one feels like a long-term companion for your kitchen. It strikes the perfect balance between price and functionality, making it a smart choice for anyone who values quality over gimmicks.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

If you’re someone who values consistent toasting, ease of use, and modern features, this product has plenty to offer. From the wide slots that handle all kinds of bread to the manual controls that give you real-time adjustments, it’s clear that the Breville Bit More Toaster 2 Slice BTA70XL was designed with practicality in mind. The stainless steel exterior adds a touch of sophistication to the kitchen, while the unique features like “A Bit More” elevate it above standard models. Even with a few minor flaws, it remains a product I’d recommend to anyone looking to upgrade their toaster game.

Additional information