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Choosing the right toaster or grill might sound trivial, but it can transform your mornings and weekend brunches. Think of a toaster as the unsung hero of the kitchen — it gives you perfectly browned bread, crisp pastries, and the golden base for avocado or eggs. A good grill or sandwich maker, meanwhile, turns simple ingredients into satisfying meals in minutes. Pick the wrong model and you’re stuck with unevenly toasted bread, crushed sandwiches, or a persistent burnt smell. Pick the right one and breakfast becomes quick, consistent, and actually enjoyable.
When shopping for kitchen appliances in the UK, certain names keep popping up for a reason: build quality, consistent results, and easy availability of replacement parts. Below I break down the strengths of brands you'll commonly see like De'Longhi, Kenwood, Philips, Tefal, and the novelty-focused range at Menkind.
De'Longhi models often blend vintage styling with modern features. Their Icona vintage range offers eye-catching designs that double as a statement piece on your counter. If you value aesthetics without sacrificing function — think wide slots for thicker slices and solid browning controls — De'Longhi is a safe bet. These units are built to last, and they make great gifts for anyone who likes their kitchen to look as good as their toast tastes.
Kenwood’s toasters are the workhorses of many homes, delivering consistent results with straightforward controls. Models like the Kenwood Dusk 4-slice are perfect for households that need to feed more people fast. You’ll find dependable crumb trays, even toasting and user-friendly features that don’t overcomplicate the morning routine. Kenwood suits people who want functionality first, with subtle styling that fits most kitchens.
Philips has carved out a niche with user-friendly sandwich makers and compact grills that focus on consistent heat distribution and easy cleanup. The Philips 5000 Series sandwich maker is an example of a compact appliance that’s handy for students or smaller households. If you like a no-fuss approach where you put in the ingredients and get reliably toasted results, Philips delivers.
Tefal’s electric grills, especially contact grills with intelligent cooking programs, bring restaurant-style grilling to the home kitchen. The Tefal OptiGrill, for instance, senses the thickness of what you’re cooking and adjusts heat accordingly — great for everything from steaks to vegetables. If you want an appliance that helps reduce guesswork while achieving a great sear, Tefal should be on your shortlist.
Menkind takes a different angle: quirky, themed appliances that turn routine cooking into a conversation starter. From Xbox Series S shaped toasters to Pokémon grilled cheese makers, these gadgets are less about subtlety and more about personality. They’re brilliant for kids, themed parties, or anyone who enjoys a playful twist on everyday meals. Just remember that novelty often means compact size and focused functionality, so consider usage before you buy.
Which appliance should you buy: a toaster, a sandwich maker, or a full-size grill? If mornings are about toast and bagels, a dedicated toaster is the most efficient choice. If you like paninis, toasted sandwiches, or quick breakfast pockets, a sandwich maker or contact grill gives you sealed, even-toasted results. For more versatile cooking — think grilling vegetables, browning meat, or making open grills — an electric grill or large contact grill is the way to go. The decision boils down to what you cook most often and how much counter space you’re willing to spare.
Shopping smart means focusing on features that actually improve daily use. Look for adjustable browning control, a good crumb tray, and a high lift function so you can retrieve smaller items safely. For grills and sandwich makers, non-stick plates and removable plates make cleaning far easier. Extra features like a defrost setting for frozen bread, reheat modes, or variable plate options can be useful — but only if you’ll actually use them. In other words, avoid paying extra for gimmicks that won’t change your routine.
Small apartments and student digs often need compact and affordable appliances. A 2-slice toaster or a compact sandwich maker like the Philips 5000 Series is perfect when counter space is limited. Menkind novelty single-slice gadgets are also popular for tight spaces and make great conversation starters in shared flats. Choose appliances that are easy to store — something lightweight, with a simple plug-and-play setup — and you won’t regret the simplicity.
Several retailers in the UK stock the models discussed here. Coffee Friend offers a selection of mainstream toasters and grills, including familiar brand names that blend style and function. Menkind specialises in novelty kitchen gadgets, and they’re the go-to for themed appliances that double as quirky gifts. Beyond those two, check big department stores and appliance specialists like John Lewis, Currys, Argos, Lakeland, and online marketplaces such as Amazon UK for wider selection, price comparisons, and user reviews. Each retailer has its strengths — some focus on high-end models and warranties, others on bargains and quirky finds.
Deciding between budget and premium comes down to frequency of use and how much you value extra features. Budget models are perfect for occasional use or first-time renters. Premium units, however, often deliver superior materials, better temperature control, and longer warranties — which pay off if you use the appliance daily.
For basic everyday toasting, low-cost 2-slice toasters and simple sandwich makers give you good results without a big spend. Look for essentials like a removable crumb tray, an even toasting setting, and a cancel button. Brands such as Kenwood and Philips have entry-level models that balance cost and performance nicely.
If you want stunning aesthetics or advanced cooking options, premium picks like De'Longhi’s Icona range or Tefal’s smart grills are worth considering. Expect sturdier construction, more precise heat control, and features designed for enthusiasts who care about every detail of their meal. These units often come in eye-catching designs that can double as a focal point in a modern kitchen.
There’s a time and place for novelty appliances. Menkind themed items — think character-shaped toasters or single-slice novelty makers — are perfect for gifts, kids, or those who want a fun twist on a kitchen staple. However, if your priority is versatility or you often cook for several people, novelty items can be limiting. They tend to be single-purpose and sometimes lack the power and plate area of more conventional models. Use novelty gear to spice up occasional meals, but rely on mainstream brands for daily use.
Treat your toaster or grill well and it’ll return the favor for years. Empty the crumb tray regularly to avoid smoke and odors. For non-stick grills and sandwich makers, wipe the plates gently with a damp cloth once cool; avoid metal utensils that scratch. If your toaster is browning unevenly, check for crumbs lodged in the slots or uneven slices; sometimes a simple clean fixes the issue. For deeper problems, consult manufacturer guides — most brands provide straightforward troubleshooting tips online.
Modern toasters and grills heat up quickly and cook in a matter of minutes, so their real energy use is usually limited to short bursts. If you’re conscious about power, look for models that reach cooking temperature fast and finish your meal quickly. Smaller appliances naturally require less energy overall due to shorter run times and smaller heating surfaces, so they’re often the greener choice for single-person households or small families.
Before you click “buy,” run through this quick checklist: How many slices do you need to toast at once? Do you want adjustable browning or preset cooking programs? Is countertop space limited? Would removable, dishwasher-safe plates be a big help? Do you prefer retro styling, modern minimalism, or a novelty look? Answering these questions narrows your options fast, making it easier to find a toaster or grill that suits your daily life.
Whether you’re shopping for a reliable 4-slice toaster from Kenwood or De'Longhi, a smart electric grill from Tefal, a compact sandwich maker from Philips, or a playful novelty unit from Menkind, the UK market has something for everyone. Think about what you actually use a toaster or grill for, choose features that match your routine, and don’t be afraid to mix practicality with personality. With the right choice, breakfast becomes less of a chore and more of a small, delicious ritual worth looking forward to.
