Toast, toasties and jaffles are Aussie kitchen staples, and there's more than one appliance that can make them. A pop-up toaster is fast for bread, a sandwich press makes toasted sandwiches, and a benchtop oven can do a bit of everything. This toaster and sandwich press guide helps you choose.
Toaster vs sandwich press vs toaster oven
| Appliance | Best for | Things to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Pop-up toaster | Fast toast, crumpets, bagels | Bread only |
| Sandwich press | Toasted sandwiches, wraps, paninis | Bench space; plates to clean |
| Jaffle maker | Sealed, filled jaffles | Fixed shape |
| Electric griddle | Pancakes, crepes, eggs | Larger footprint |
| Benchtop toaster oven | Toast, melts, baking, reheating | Slower for plain toast |
Choosing a toaster
- Slots: Two slots suit couples and small households; four slots suit families.
- Wide or long slots: Handle thick bread, sourdough and bagels.
- Settings: Look for browning control, defrost, reheat and bagel functions.
- High-lift lever: Makes it easier to grab smaller items.
- Crumb tray: A removable tray makes cleaning easier.
For more detail, see our kettle and toaster guide.
Choosing a sandwich press
- Plate size: Measured by how many slices fit, from around two to six or more.
- Floating hinge: Adjusts to thick sandwiches and presses evenly.
- Non-stick plates: Easier cleaning; use plastic or wooden utensils.
- Ribbed or flat plates: Ribbed gives grill marks; flat is more versatile.
- Removable plates: Some can go in the dishwasher (check the manual).
- Drip tray: Catches melted cheese and oil.
Jaffle makers
Jaffle makers seal and cut sandwiches into pockets, keeping fillings inside. They're great for classic baked bean and cheese jaffles.
Choosing a benchtop toaster oven
- Capacity: Around 12 to 20 litres suits small households; around 22 litres and up suits families.
- Functions: Bake, grill, toast, convection and air fry.
- Timer and temperature control.
- Interior light and glass door.
- Accessories: Trays, racks and crumb trays.
A benchtop oven makes cheese melts and open sandwiches easily, and can stand in for a main oven for small meals. See our air fryer vs oven guide if you're weighing up an air fryer oven.
Toasters and benchtop ovens to compare
Our toasters and sandwich presses range currently focuses on toasters and benchtop ovens from Dualit, Mistral, Pronti, Delonghi and BOS & SARINO, plus a GALLIDEI electric griddle and crepe maker. Our toasters range adds KitchenAid and Smeg retro toasters, and our countertop and toaster ovens range includes Breville, Sunbeam, Russell Hobbs, Morphy Richards and Smeg benchtop ovens. Want a matching set? Our electric kettles range includes a Westinghouse kettle and toaster pack. Every brand we stock is listed on our brands page.
Toastie ideas
- Ham, cheese and tomato: A classic.
- Leftover roast: With chutney and cheese.
- Veggie: Spinach, feta and roasted capsicum.
- Sweet: Banana and cinnamon, or apple and ricotta.
- Breakfast: Egg, bacon and cheese.
Butter the outside of the bread, not the inside, for a golden crust. Thicker breads like sourdough and Turkish bread work well in a press with a floating hinge, and wraps make quick, crispy lunches.
Cleaning
Toaster
- Unplug and cool.
- Empty the crumb tray regularly.
- Wipe the outside with a damp cloth.
- Never use a knife or metal objects in the slots.
Sandwich press
- Unplug and let it cool slightly.
- Wipe the plates with a damp cloth or paper towel while warm (not hot).
- Avoid abrasive scourers on non-stick plates.
- Clean the drip tray after each use.
Toaster oven
- Empty the crumb tray.
- Wash trays and racks.
- Wipe the interior once cool.
For more appliance care tips, see how to descale a kettle.
Bench space and storage
- Measure your bench before buying, including space behind and above for heat to escape.
- Upright sandwich presses store on their end to save space; check whether yours is designed to stand.
- Benchtop ovens are larger, so give them a permanent spot away from walls and cupboards.
- Match colours and finishes with your kettle for a neat look.
Power use
Pop-up toasters run for only a few minutes, so they're quick for everyday toast. Sandwich presses heat up fast and cook in minutes too. Benchtop ovens take longer to preheat but are often more efficient than a full-size oven for small meals. Check the wattage on the product page.
Safety tips
- Keep appliances away from water and the edge of the bench.
- Leave space around them for ventilation.
- Unplug after use.
- Watch for burns from hot plates and steam.
- Don't leave cooking unattended.
Choosing the right appliance
- Mostly toast: A two or four-slice toaster.
- Lots of toasties: A sandwich press with a floating hinge.
- Classic jaffles: A jaffle maker.
- Small kitchen and versatility: A benchtop toaster oven.
- Weekend pancakes and crepes: An electric griddle.
Related guides: Kettles and Toasters, Kettle Descaling and Small Appliance Care, Air Fryer vs Oven.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between a sandwich press and a jaffle maker?
A sandwich press has flat or ribbed plates that toast any sandwich, while a jaffle maker seals the edges to make filled pockets.
Can a toaster oven replace a toaster?
It can toast bread and do much more, but it's usually slower than a pop-up toaster for plain toast.
How do I clean non-stick sandwich press plates?
Unplug, let it cool slightly, then wipe with a damp cloth or paper towel. Avoid abrasive scourers and metal utensils.
How many slots should my toaster have?
Two slots suit most couples and small households; four slots suit families or busy mornings.
