Cuisinart Metal Classic Toaster - 2-Slice

I received this toaster as gift to replace an older Cuisinart toaster that was getting on in years. I like the simple straightforward design of the controls and the smooth easy to clean finish. The slide-out crumb tray is also a plus for easy cleaning. The toaster performs well with consistent results and with a relatively even distribution of color over the bread being toasted. The only shortcoming for me is that the highest setting doesn't toast dark enough for English muffins or for some whole grain breads. I do prefer my toast on the darker side and a second, albeit shorter toast cycle is required to achieve that.

We were disappointed how long this product lasted, given the brand name. It worked well for the first 2 years then gradually started losing effectiveness. Now it barely toasts, it just makes hot bread.

It took us 18 or so years to kill our first one, and after trying one or two other brands we wound up back home with another Cuisinart toaster, same model. Our first one still worked fine, but the inside wiring went dark so we Wound up with one-sided bread toast. Disappointing, but I suppose 18 years is a good life for an appliance. Too bad that I couldn't see any way of rebuilding it professionally or under the oak tree. Odd note: the old toaster was set on 3, the new one is set to 6 for light bread toast. You'd expect the same settings for the new unit, but perhaps product liability attorneys got involved? We'll never know. Anyway, we hope the thing lasts another 18 years!