I cannot begin to tell you all I have learned during the past few months about kitchen appliances — both large and small. My husband is remodeling our kitchen. Wouldn’t you assume selecting appliances would be the easy part in the planning process? Oh, what I have learned — and do intend on sharing with you in the very near future — is epic. Let me just say I’m more convinced than ever determining the best inexpensive option in every category is the way to go. The most expensive does not mean better longevity or even superior performance.

For today, and because of popular demand, let’s tackle basic countertop appliances that toast, bake and broil.

TOASTER

The goal here is to find the best inexpensive traditional toaster, where you put in slices of bread and, a few minutes later, up pops toast that is perfectly toasted on both sides. Sounds simple enough, right? Well, not really, because there are so many options. That’s why you need me to test, research, review and narrow this down to the best, which in this case is also the most inexpensive. My pick is the Cuisinart Compact Plastic Toaster, which comes in a two-slice option and four-slice option. The slots are wide enough to accommodate bagels, English muffins, Texas toast and regular-width slices of bread. This toaster is just the right size; it toasts easily; and it looks nice with any decor. Don’t let the plastic part scare you. The toaster remains cool to the touch and is super easy to clean. The two-slice model costs about $30; the four-slice model costs about $40.

TOASTER OVEN

If you need a toaster that will turn out great toast and handle pizza, frozen foods and quick reheats, my pick for a basic toaster oven is the Panasonic Flash Xpress Toaster Oven. Granted, there are less expensive toaster ovens out there, but my goal here is for you to not end up buying junk. You want the lowest price for a quality appliance that will serve you well for at least as long as a much more expensive option. In my opinion, this toaster oven fits that requirement very well. It is compact and attractive. It costs about $110.

ALL-IN-ONE COUNTERTOP OVEN

If you need an oven that will do everything — toast, bake, roast, broil, warm, slow-cook, convection, air fry (high heat and super convection), dehydrate, reheat and even proof bread dough — because you either need a second oven or have no oven at all, you need to consider the new Breville Smart Oven Air. This was a tough decision for me because, again, there are so many choices out there. But I have to tell you most of them are junk. The doors don’t close right. They do not heat to the set temperature. Basically, they just don’t perform to the standard we’re looking for. This latest model is sweet. And it’s the only countertop oven many of us ever will need because it’s spacious and does everything. It even will accommodate a small turkey and roast it to perfection. It costs about $400.

<strong>Resources:</strong> For more information on the resources mentioned above, go to EverydayCheapskate.com/toasters.