Russell HobbsEmma Bridgewater Polka Dot 21305

How we test peformance

Evenness: How evenly slices of fresh white bread are toasted. We look at the whole of the slice, noting any variation in colouring across the slice. We also look for untoasted tops and stripes and make sure that both faces of the bread are toasted to the same degree. Models tested before December 2010 do not have a result for this test, but will have a browning coverage rating instead. Browning coverage: How much of the toast has achieved a golden-brown colour, without any significantly pale or dark areas. Speed: How quickly the toaster was able to toast a slice of fresh bread.

How we test versatility

How good the toaster is at fitting conventional supermarket loaf slices, tall "toastie" slices, large breadmaker slices, and thick items such as crumpets. Some older toasters don't have a rating for toasting thick items.

How we test ease of use

How easy it is to use the toaster. We assess a range of taks, including inserting bread into the slots and pushing the lever down, removing items without burning your fingers, using the controls and the crumb tray, and whether the instructions are clear and easy to understand.