Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster

An In-Depth Review of the Features, Performance, and Value of This Top-Rated Toaster

Looking for a new toaster that can handle everything from bread to bagels to waffles with ease? The Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster should be on your radar. This stylish toaster has received rave reviews for its versatility, performance, and value.

In this detailed blog post, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster to help you determine if it’s the right small appliance for your kitchen. We’ll cover everything from key product specs and features to real customer feedback on how well this toaster browns and toasts a variety of items.

Whether you enjoy toast, English muffins, frozen waffles or are looking for a toaster that can accommodate thick bagel slices, keep reading to see why the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster is a top contender for shoppers wanting reliable results and flexibility in a compact and affordable toaster.

An Introduction to the Cookworks Brand

Cookworks is a popular brand owned by Argos and known for producing dependable and well-designed kitchen appliances at reasonable price points. Their product line includes everything from kettles and coffee makers to microwaves and stand mixers.

The company focuses on creating straightforward appliances that don’t have a lot of fancy features or unnecessary bells and whistles. Instead, Cookworks aims to provide home cooks with practical, easy-to-use appliances that get the job done without breaking the bank. This straightforward approach is reflected in the streamlined design and basic functionality of the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster.

Overview of the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster

As the name suggests, the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster can toast two slices of bread at once. With its 720W of power, it quickly and evenly toasts bread as well as other bakery items like bagels, buns, waffles, and English muffins.

This is a compact toaster oven that won’t take up much space on your kitchen counter. It measures approximately 29 x 20 x 22 cm and has a sleek and modern stainless steel and black plastic exterior that will suit a variety of kitchen decor styles.

The slot openings measure 13 cm wide x 11 cm deep, which Cookworks states can fit thicker bread slices, bagels, and other items up to 3 cm thick. There is also a handy high lift feature that allows you to easily remove smaller items.

Some of the notable features of the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster include:

• 720W of power for fast toasting
• 2 extra wide slots (13 cm x 11 cm) to fit thicker items
• High lift feature to remove small items easily
• Defrost setting for toasting frozen bread and pastries
• Reheat setting to warm already toasted items
• 6 variable browning control settings
• Removable crumb trays for easy cleaning
• Cord storage to keep countertops tidy
• Compact footprint takes up minimal counter space

Next, let’s take a deeper look at the key functions and capabilities of this toaster.

A Closer Look at the Features and Benefits

Adjustable Browning Settings

One of the handiest features of the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster is the ability to tailor the level of browning. There are six settings ranging from lightest to darkest, so you can get the exact toast color you prefer. No more battling with inconsistent toasting or any burned bread disasters!

The browning levels let you achieve anything from a light golden brown all the way up to a dark crisp brown. Whether you like your toast practically blonde or well-done with blackened edges, this toaster has you covered.

Defrost and Reheat Functions

This toaster includes both defrost and reheat functions, making the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster extremely versatile.

The defrost setting gradually warms up frozen bread or pastries like waffles or pancakes taken straight from the freezer. This prevents uneven heating or burning.

Meanwhile, the handy reheat button allows you to briefly warm already-toasted bread without browning it further. This helps revive stale toast or bagels so they taste freshly toasted.

Extra Wide Toasting Slots

Each of the two toasting slots measures 13 cm wide x 11 cm deep, which gives you ample room for thicker bread slices, bagels, buns, English muffins, and other bakery items.

Many buyers especially appreciate that the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster can accommodate bagels without the need to flip them. The wide slots easily fit the entire bagel, allowing even browning. No more dealing with a burnt outer edge and pale inner edge!

High Lift Feature

The high lift lever raises smaller items higher up out of the toaster, so they are safely within reach. This prevents burning your fingers trying to grab that lone slice of toast or mini muffin.

Easy Cord Storage

The cord tucks away neatly into the base, keeping your countertop free of clutter. No more dealing with a messy cord dangling down when the toaster is not in use.

Removable Crumb Trays

To simplify cleaning, the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster has removable crumb trays that slide out from the bottom. These can be dumped and wiped clean quickly after each use to prevent any buildup of crumbs or debris. Reviewers praise how easy it is to keep this toaster clean.

Compact Size

This toaster has a footprint of only 29 x 20 cm, allowing it to fit well even in the smallest kitchens. When not in use, it can stand vertically against the wall or tuck away in a cabinet. The space-saving design still leaves plenty of room for other small appliances and meal prep.

Now that we’ve covered the key functions and selling points of the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster, let’s go over some frequently asked questions.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster

Here are answers to some common questions about using and purchasing this popular toaster:

What types of bread can I toast in this toaster?

The slots are wide enough to accommodate different bread types, including whole grain, sourdough, bagels, buns, crumpets, and English muffins. Just adjust the browning level accordingly.

Can I toast waffles or other frozen items?

Yes, the defrost setting gently thaws and crisps frozen waffles, pancakes, pastries, etc. without burning.

Is the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster good for bagels?

It earns rave reviews for toasting bagels thanks to the wide slots that fit them flat without the need to flip.

How do I clean a Cookworks toaster?

The removable crumb trays make it simple to clean. Just slide them out and dump crumbs after use. Occasionally wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth.

What is the warranty for this Cookworks toaster?

It comes with a standard one year warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship.

Does this toaster have a cancel or stop button?

Yes, there is a convenient cancel button to halt the toasting process at any time.

Is the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster loud when in use?

It operates at about average volume for a toaster. There may be some noise during toasting, but most owners say it’s not disturbingly loud.

What colors does this toaster come in?

The exterior is stainless steel and black plastic, so color choices are limited. But the neutral tones suit most kitchen decors.

Now that we’ve answered some common buying questions, let’s summarize the pros and cons of the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster.

Pros and Cons of the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster

Pros:

• Evenly toasts bread, bagels, waffles, English muffins, etc.
• Six settings allow custom browning preferences
• Defrost and reheat functions increase versatility
• Extra wide slots fit thick bread, bagels, buns
• High lift feature for removing small items safely
• Removable crumb trays simplify cleaning
• Cord storage keeps countertops tidy
• Compact and lightweight stainless steel design
• Budget-friendly price point under £25

Cons:

• Lack of shade selection (stainless steel exterior only)
• No LED display or countdown timer
• Short one-year warranty period
• May struggle with very thick specialty bread types
• Few fancy features compared to pricier models

Where to Buy the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster

The Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster is an Argos exclusive product, so the main place to purchase it is directly through the Argos website or in Argos retail stores.

The typical retail price is £22-25 depending on whether there are any promotions or sales. Delivery fees from Argos vary based on order size and collection versus home delivery.

Argos frequently offers discounts and bundle deals that may include the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster, so it pays to keep an eye out for special offers around peak sales events. Signing up for Argos newsletters can help you find the best bargains.

What Do Customer Reviews Say?

Overall, customer reviews for the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster are very positive. Hundreds of buyers have provided 4+ star ratings and glowing feedback.

The most frequent praise is for the even browning, flexible functions, and ability to accommodate bagels and thicker bread. Reviewers say both slots toast evenly without the need to rotate items.

Many customers comment that the toast color dial makes it easy to achieve the desired level of browning on the first try without burned bits. There is appreciation for the high lift handle safely raising smaller items.

The defrost and reheat functions also receive positive mentions for making the toaster more versatile. And the removable crumb trays earn accolades for simplifying cleaning.

In terms of critical feedback, a few buyers report issues with very thick or dense specialty breads not toasting through fully on higher settings. There are also rare complaints about durability after a year or two of frequent use.

But the vast majority of reviews indicate the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster performs consistently when toasting regular sliced bread, bagels, waffles and more. It earns recommendations as an affordable option for students or small households.

How Does It Compare to Similar Toasters?

When compared to other budget 2-slice toasters in the sub-£30 price range, the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster holds its own and emerges as a top contender.

It provides performance and features comparable to more expensive models by De’Longhi, Breville, Russell Hobbs and other leading brands.

The adjustable browning function, defrost/reheat settings, and wide slots rival what you would find in a higher-end toaster. And the sleek stainless steel exterior gives it a premium look belying its reasonable price tag.

For shoppers wanting a no-frills but reliable toaster that nails the basics and offers a few handy functions, the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster is tough to beat. It balances performance and value in a streamlined, space-saving design.

Is the Cookworks Toaster Worth the Investment?

For around £25, this Cookworks Toaster provides great bang for your buck. It can tackle a variety of toasting tasks while taking up minimal space.

The combination of adjustable settings, versatile functions, and wide slots make it more flexible than other basic toasters. And little touches like cord storage and removable crumb trays increase the convenience factor.

While it may lack some of the bells and whistles of premium toasters, this Cookworks model sticks to the essentials. For shoppers who just want reliable, consistent toasting without breaking the bank, the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster is a solid investment.

It will quickly become a go-to small appliance in your kitchen for everything from breakfast toast to quick snacks and beyond. The quality and performance rival much pricier models, cementing this toaster’s status as a budget-friendly win.

Final Verdict: An Impressive Bargain Buy

In closing, the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster emerges as an outstanding option for affordable but versatile toasting. It combines essential features like adjustable browning, defrost/reheat functions, and wide slots in a compact and user-friendly package.

While it may not have the flashy finishes and high-tech settings of ultra-expensive toasters, it provides impressive performance and durability according to countless satisfied owners. For shoppers who prioritize reliability, simplicity, and value, the Cookworks 2 Slice Toaster is a top contender.

So bring home consistent toast and bagels with minimal fuss or countertop clutter. This stylish little toaster has all the toasting power and flexibility you need —without the lofty price tag.