Stand mixers are kitchen workhorses. They need to be able to handle everything from the most delicate mixing to tough kneading without protest, which is why I was so excited to get my hands on the new super-powerful SMEG Forte Stand Mixer.

I put the 750-watt mixer to the test using my favorite tried-and-tested recipes, and it's safe to say that it is a fantastic addition to the SMEG retro-style lineup, delivering stellar baked results every time and easily vying for a spot on the best stand mixers list.

That said, there are a few tiny snags in using the Smeg Forte Stand Mixer that knocked just half a star off of my final verdict. Here's why I still think it can be worth the investment, and the small details to take into account.

Product Specifications: KitchenAid Artisan Plus 5 Quart Stand Mixer

Design and First Impressions

The SMEG Forte Stand Mixer revives the same classic retro silhouette as the rest of the SMEG offerings, with a curvaceous outline that oozes style and pairs wonderfully with their existing toasters, kettles, and more. Much like the original SMEG 1950s Retro Stand Mixer we reviewed a few years ago, the Forte comes in seven classic SMEG colors, all with stainless steel bowls.

The mixer looks great straight out of the box. It arrived well packaged, in mostly recyclable packaging, using sturdy cardboard and a few fabric bags to prevent the plastic exterior and stainless steel bowl from being scratched. The individual accessories were tucked neatly inside, too.

As with any stand mixer, this thing is not light. Coming in at 21lbs, it is a little lighter than the new KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer I reviewed alongside it, but it is still not easy to lift from shelves if you wish to store it away. After a particularly tough arm day at the gym, my partner had to move it onto a slightly higher shelf for me when I needed some extra counter space. For general day-to-day use, however, it is so pretty that I suggest leaving it in place on your counter as part of your kitchen decor. Small appliance slide mats, from Amazon, can make it easier to move if required.

After unboxing and rinsing the attachments to remove any factory dust, it was as simple as plugging it in and starting to bake. There are 11 speed settings, an increase of one from the original design, that play into the new, more powerful motor. The SMEG Forte boasts a 750-watt motor, up from their previous 600 watts, and over double that of the new KitchenAid. The idea is that this will limit the risk of burnout, a common problem that plagues heavily used stand mixers. The mixer also promises a slow start, which steadily increases the speed up to the selected setting to avoid ingredients flying out of the bowl. I found this to be somewhat effective, but it was not as gentle as other mixers I have used in the past.

The Forte comes with four attachments as standard: A stainless steel wire whisk, an aluminum dough hook, a paddle beater, and a flex-edge beater. They also include a clear plastic splash guard with a pouring spout that sits neatly on top of the bowl.

Performance

To thoroughly test the stand mixer, I tested four of my favorite recipes that would assess the appliance's ability to tackle everything from thick doughs to delicate cream:

The Cake Test

Victoria sponge cake is a very simple recipe, but it is easy to get wrong. Overmix, and you risk a dense, chewy cake that is miles from the lightweight, melt-in-the-mouth result you're hoping for. For this reason, I usually hand-mix this batter for precision.

I started by creaming together the butter and sugar using the flex-edge beater attachment. It powered through the mix easily enough, slowly reducing it down to a light and fluffy paste; however, I did notice some sticking around the edge of the bowl. I think this is because the flex-edge silicone only lines one side of the beater, meaning the other is exposed aluminum. As a result, you only get half the scraping power. I had to stop before adding more ingredients to scrape the edges down.

I proceeded as usual, alternating between adding the flour and eggs so as to prevent the batter from splitting. I did this on a low speed to avoid overmixing the dough, especially when adding the final few measures of flour. This is the part when I usually turn to folding the mix with a spoon slowly to keep the air in. The SMEG was a little heavy-handed for this, even on the lowest speed, but it incorporated everything evenly nonetheless. Power is this mixer's forte,' if you'll pardon the pun, more so than precision.

I admittedly shared and ate the cake too quickly and forgot to take a photo, but it came out evenly with no clumps of flour and rose nicely. It wasn't as fluffy as mixing by hand, but it was still perfectly passable.

The Whipped Cream Test

Whipping cream requires high speeds, so I had a good feeling that the SMEG Forte would excel here.

Adding plain double cream to the bowl, I turned the whisk attachment onto a mid-high setting and let it work. The slow start stopped cream from flying up to the splash guard, which was nice to see, even if it was not the slowest build-up I have ever seen in a mixer. It was a little loud in the process, but nothing uncomfortable. It was as expected from a motor of that size.

It very quickly thickened the cream to a spreadable consistency, ready to be spread onto my cake.

The Bread Test

With its more powerful motor, I paid particular attention to the bread test, making my standard focaccia dough. It was a lot easier than mixing by hand and produced a wonderfully airy bread that sprang up when compressed.

The process of making the dough raised a few concerns, however, most notably in the movement of the mixer head. As with most stand mixers, the speed is limited when using the dough hook to prevent burning out the motor, but that was no issue for me. I did find an issue in fitting the dough hook, however. The metal didn't slot together neatly and felt like it was scraping or catching on insertions, needing a bit of force to get it into place and twist to secure. It made the whole appliance feel a little bit less premium.

That said, even on the slowest speed setting, on a high-hydration dough, the head 'bounced' as it mixed. SMEG claims its head movement is there to mimic the natural movement of hands kneading dough for consistent results; however, this is a 'feature' most stand mixers struggle with, which can loosen the head joint over time. I am not entirely convinced by it. Overall, however, I didn't experience any damage in my time testing, nor did the appliance rock or otherwise move on the counter as I worked.

The handled bowl made the dough easy to move around while the dough was proofing, and all in all, I was very impressed by the texture of my sweet cinnamon sugar focaccia.

The Cookie Test

The final test is cookies, used to assess the mixer with another dough type, and the ease of moving the bowl from the counter to the fridge. I used my base cookie recipe for this to make a chewy chocolate-chunk treat.

This mix is usually a nightmare to make by hand, giving me a shoulder ache by the end, so it was nice to take some of the effort out. As with every other recipe, the paddle attachments distributed ingredients nicely, combining them evenly without any lumps or clumps. It also folded the chunks of chocolate evenly, with no sign of rocking or struggling as it worked.

As I refrigerate my cookie dough overnight (at the very least), I removed the bowl, covered it with foil, and put it in the fridge. The bowl is rather squat in size, being wider than it is tall, which made this very easy to do without having to adjust the height of my shelving. It didn't feel heavy in my grip, either, even with the dough inside.

After baking, the cookies were perfectly chewy, with crisp edges that gave way to an almost Stroop-waffle-esque interior. It was another easy win.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the SMEG Forte Stand Mixer was easy. The removable components are dishwasher safe, with the exception of the wire whisk. I hand-washed all of the pieces and found that even sticky bread dough came away with ease after a small stint soaking to loosen the oils. I always use a soft dish sponge and non-toxic soap, such as the Attitude Dish Soap from Walmart.

The exterior of the appliance, being shiny plastic, can then be buffed down with a damp cloth and dried to remove splatters and fingerprints.

It was as I was washing the bowl after the cookies that I realised that I had damaged it. When portioning cookies, I have always used my metal ice cream scoop from Walmart. It helps me achieve nice, even balls of dough for evenly sized cookies. I had used the same tool to portion dough from my KitchenAid with no issue, and given that stainless steel is a metal utensil safe, I used it without a second thought in the SMEG. After washing, the deep scratches made themselves known.

I flicked back through the manual and couldn't find any warnings against using metal in the bowl, so I didn't put this down to user error. That said, it is important to note that this bowl is more delicate than it looks.

How The SMEG Forte Stand Mixer Compares

When trialling stand mixers, I tested the Smeg Forte alongside the KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer. Both delivered great results on the same bakes, and I would be hard-pressed to tell them apart if I were blindfolded. That said, the process of using each machine varied, and put the KitchenAid half a star ahead.

Both machines come at a premium price so far as stand mixers are concerned; however, for $50 more, the Artisan Plus offers greater precision control, including a folding speed and a bowl light. Even with a more powerful motor, these were two features I missed severely when using the SMEG Forte.

The general consensus online seems to agree that the Forte, while a great option, may not live up to alternatives. Another professional review, for instance, experienced the bowl rocking under the force of the mixer. While I did not experience this myself, it suggests that it might not be quite sturdy enough to withstand its own amped-up motor.

Shopper reviews are more positive, with the bulk of the praise falling on the cult-favorite retro design. Many Amazon shoppers, for instance, love that it matches their existing SMEG investments. Giving it five stars, shopper M commented, 'I love to bake and was finding making bread and similar products tedious due to the amount of hand kneading. The initial shock and slight buyer's remorse due to the price were instantly gone upon my first use! This machine can handle all types of dough, cookies, squares, buns, etc. If you are looking for a stand mixer and want something sturdy that can get the job done, I highly recommend this product!'

Of the one-star reviews, of which there are very few, customers report a range of issues from cords arriving broken to the tilt head mechanism not holding, and even the appliance not always turning on. None of us appeared to have the same issues, which suggests to me that there may be some quality-control concerns with the odd few appliances. It is worth noting that the overall reception is very positive, however, and these mark only a small section of shoppers.

Should You Buy The SMEG Forte Stand Mixer?

All in all, if you value aesthetics and bake occasionally, I do recommend the SMEG Forte Stand Mixer. It ultimately performed well on all of our tests, delivering tasty baked goods, but it just fell a little short in comparison to others on the market in terms of operation. It wouldn't suit someone running a cake business from their home, but it is a fun-looking addition for the occasional home cook.

If you already have an existing stand mixer that performs well, I do not see a need to rush to upgrade, especially with a recommended retail price of $549.99 at the time of writing. I would wait for a sale to invest.

What Else to Shop

Looking to create a cohesive appliance suite or simply elevate your baking setup? I’ve rounded up my favourite SMEG appliances alongside a selection of baking essentials to help outfit your kitchen in style, without compromising on non-toxic materials or performance.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Looking to make your baking setup more professional? We asked professional organizers for their best tips for storing bakeware to keep kitchens tidy.

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No brand blends retro charm with modern performance quite like SMEG. Time and again, they prove that convenience does not have to come wrapped in minimalist, utilitarian styling.

The new SMEG Forte Stand Mixer, available from Williams Sonoma, is the latest example. Having finally got my hands on one, I can already say that it feels like a genuine contender to become one of the best stand mixers.

The beautifully crafted exterior has quickly become the focal point of my kitchen, a rare appliance that earns its place on the countertop without looking like clutter. Here’s why I’m so excited about it.

I will admit that despite baking for the better part of the last 15 years, I have always opted for the handheld option in the hand mixer vs stand mixer debate. Having a small kitchen means that a smaller tool is more convenient and does just about the same job, right?

I have used the SMEG Forte Stand Mixer once since it arrived, and I am in the midst of my review process, but I can say right off the bat that it is the countertop upgrade I did not know I was missing. When working through my first test (a classic Victoria sponge cake), it halved the time it took to make, and my arms didn't ache at the end of it.

Sitting neatly at the edge of my counter, it is surprisingly compact, and the stunning vintage design means it looks more like an art piece than a kitchen workhorse.

The Forte offers a higher-performance spec compared to the original SMEG retro stand mixer we reviewed. With a more powerful motor, the new release promises more mixing power, especially when it comes to mixing heavy doughs for bread. This is something I will be testing later on with my classic focaccia recipe.

Equally intriguing, however, is the new folding speed, designed to gently incorporate ingredients without knocking out air or overworking delicate batters. For keen bakers, that could be one of the most valuable additions, and it will likely be the feature that makes or breaks the mixer for me, as it will determine how well you can make the most of your stand mixer.

Another welcome improvement is the inclusion of a flex-edge beater as standard. In my view, this is one of the most useful stand mixer attachments available. The rubber-edged design continuously scrapes the sides of the bowl as it mixes, eliminating the pockets of flour and unmixed ingredients that often require manual intervention. It is a small detail that makes a noticeable difference to both consistency and convenience.

While I am yet to push it to the max, I am incredibly excited by what lies in store, especially if the early swathes of five-star reviews on Amazon are anything to go by, with customers loving the colors and, most importantly, dubbing the expensive appliance a smart KitchenAid alternative that's worth the spend.

What to Shop

If you're looking to elevate your baking setup, SMEG offers a range of coordinating retro-inspired appliances that bring both style and function to the kitchen.

To help you build the ultimate baking station, I’ve curated my favourite picks alongside a selection of non-toxic kitchen essentials designed to support every recipe.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

There has never been a better time to invest in SMEG appliances, with the new SMEG 2026 color of the year, Moonlight, dropping across their appliance range. It's the dreamy neutral that will fit into any kitchen.

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SMEG has revealed its Color of the Year for 2026, and it is a stark departure from the usually vivid retro palette the brand is known for.

Moonlight, a rich earth tone, could be mistaken for a safe play. However, the restorative hue, inspired by the 'understated elegance' of natural light, is designed to complement the existing surfaces in your kitchen, rather than distract.

Available in one of the best drip coffee makers, an electric kettle, and a two-slice toaster, the new color just works, no matter your current kitchen scheme. But why?

Moonlight is SMEG's Color of the Year 2026

Looking back at every Color of the Year we know so far, another neutral shade is perhaps not all that surprising. Sherwin-Williams announced Universal Khaki, Dutch Boy chose Melodious Ivory, and we saw a similar story in the controversial Pantone Color of the Year, Cloud Dancer.

Moonlight is a warm, earthy neutral, designed with sophistication in mind. The warmer undertones add depth, steering kitchens away from being too stark or unwelcoming, lending credence to cozy kitchens designed for hosting or comfort cooking.

But why, when the quiet luxury trend seems to be phasing out of both interiors and fashion, have so many institutions settled on understated shades? For SMEG, a famously nostalgic kitchenware brand, it is about creating appliances that 'gently accompany surfaces rather than distract.'

Karen Olle, Marketing Director at SMEG USA, shared in the release, 'We're seeing a real shift in design as homeowners move away from cool greys and toward the warmth of earthy neutrals like beige and ivory. With Moonlight, we wanted to capture that sense of calm in a very tangible way, creating a kitchen that feels organic, grounded, and restorative.'

When choosing the best kitchen appliances, the timeless matte neutral is perfect, blending seamlessly into any scheme, from maximalist kitchens to the 'New Neutral' kitchens rising in popularity.

Rather than draw the eye as a centerpiece, the new SMEG offerings integrate seamlessly into the existing space, as discreet appliances that minimize visual clutter in a kitchen without becoming boring.

They are still a statement, albeit a more considered one. As they mix elegance with quality construction, they are a definitively timeless investment for any kitchen ideas.

What to Shop

For those of us who are irrevocably drawn to comforting, warm-toned neutrals, this shade feels like a natural fit. I have rounded up six picks – both from SMEG itself and a few color-matched accessories – to help you integrate the Moonlight hue across your kitchen.

All prices correct at time of publication.

If you are enamoured by the natural aesthetic, consider these neutral kitchen ideas to balance warmth and timelessness without veering into bland.

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I have baked for the past 15 years, and at one point, I was making a new cake every weekend without fail, so I understand just how game-changing a new stand mixer can be.

That is why I am so excited about SMEG's newest launch, specifically their new Forte Stand Mixer, available at Williams Sonoma. With a new, powerful motor designed to make kneading even the toughest doughs as easy as whipping meringue, and reimagined accessories to ensure not an inch of the bowl is left unmixed, it is rising to the occasion as a candidate for one of the best stand mixers.

Here’s why I can’t wait to try it in my own kitchen, and why it’s an appliance every home baker should consider, whether it’s your first stand mixer or a long-overdue upgrade.

The SMEG Stand Mixer Every Baker's Kitchen Needs

When choosing kitchen appliances, finding the right stand mixer can be surprisingly difficult. These workhorse machines are the sous chef of your kitchen. Beyond mixing and kneading, with the right accessories, they can grind meat, churn ice cream, slice and grate vegetables, roll fresh pasta, and more. Selecting the right model can make cooking and baking a breeze, saving your time and effort daily.

The newest SMEG Forte stand mixer keeps this essential role in mind and provides a direct-drive motor that can tackle even the toughest of tasks, such as kneading dense doughs with ease. What's more, the head movement is designed to mimic the natural motion of hand kneading for more consistent results.

No longer will I have to constantly stop other tasks to hold the stand mixer still while it struggles against gluten development, either, with enhanced 'Steady-Mix' stability, integrated to reduce vibrations so the machine doesn't shift during use.

The accessories are really where you get the most out of your stand mixer, and SMEG has considered these, too.

The new Forte mixer is compatible with all the existing add-ons, such as the Multi-Grinder Attachment, SMEG Pasta Roller, and Ice Cream Maker, all available at Amazon.

What's more, they have also redesigned the classic dough hook, with a C-shape hook that actively pushes dough off the sides of the stainless steel bowl for a more even mix. Similarly, the redesigned flat-edge beater prevents stuck ingredients at the edges of the bowl.

The mixer comes with a wire whisk, flat beater, dough hook, flex edge beater, and a Tritan™ Renew pouring shield as standard, so you can get baking straight out of the box. I cannot wait to try it out myself.

What to Shop

I’ve accumulated quite a collection of baking essentials over the years, with two full cabinets dedicated entirely to the hobby, so I have an in-depth understanding of what makes for a well-functioning baking space.

I’ve curated six considered picks to help you outfit your kitchen with both practicality and style in mind.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Not sure which baking appliance will suit your routine best? We have compared hand mixers vs stand mixers so you can make the right decision for your kitchen.

Love the latest product news and helpful shopping advice? Sign up for our newsletter and get the latest features delivered straight to your inbox.

At this time of year, I host countless dinner parties. Meticulously planning my Christmas table decor, putting out my best wine glasses, and stocking my home bar set-up. And yet, when the night ends, I always find myself at the sink, sleeves rolled up, hand-washing every fragile piece of glassware and tableware that I don't want to risk breaking in the dishwasher.

I’m one of those people who still wash their best dishes by hand, and certainly among the many who save their best stemware for 'special occasions.' Even with the best dishwashers, I can't bear the thought of one careless cycle undoing years of dedicated collecting.

So, when I heard that the redesigned SMEG dishwasher line was created with hosts like me in mind – people who cherish beautiful things and actually use them – I couldn't wait to share the news.

SMEG's WinePro feature has flexible tines that secure each glass in place, so you can place delicate stems into the dishwasher with peace of mind. Even decanters (my George Jensen carafe from Bloomingdale's demands ceremonial hand-washing in my house) have a designated holder in the SMEG dishwasher. They'll sit securely, even on the lower rack, without wobbling.

The rest of the redesign feels equally attuned to the way I like to cook and entertain. I love big, generous meals – the kind that require the best roasting pans, Dutch ovens, and an array of little Le Creuset dishes for sauces, olives, nuts, and herbs. SMEG’s new interior layout shifts and opens to accommodate whatever you've used that day.

The Planetarium Wash System is designed to be effective, yet quiet (so you could even run a cycle while your guests are on their dessert course). At Homes & Gardens, we really value quiet appliances (we've tested the best quiet blenders, for example). There’s something luxurious about an appliance that can do a powerful job, without disruptive noise, too. This dishwasher might just be going straight on my Christmas wishlist.

Suprisingly Dishwasher-Safe Hosting Essentials

From the everyday to the extraordinary, these appliances and tableware pieces make entertaining effortless and elegant, yet each item can withstand a cycle in the dishwasher, especially when it's as gentle as SMEG's new launch.

If this has inspired you to finally bring out your crystal and stemware without worry, we’ve recently covered some luxe cocktail hour essentials, like the timeless Nick & Nora glasses, that pair perfectly with a well-stocked bar and your newly liberated stemware.

As a chef and product tester, I’ve spent years reviewing kitchen appliances. For a long time, I assumed SMEG was more about style than performance. But after testing the kettle, blender, juicer, mixer, toaster, and more, I can confirm the brand delivers in most appliance categories. If you're hunting for the best Black Friday SMEG deals, you're in good company.

I've been tracking the prices, and there are some big-ticket savings live right now. Several retailers are taking $300–$500 off the best refrigerators, plus, the brand's best espresso makers and iconic retro kettles have seen generous discounts, too.

I’ve combed through the sales and picked out the strongest offers on tried-and-tested SMEG appliances. These are the best Black Friday Smeg deals right now.

Best Black Friday Smeg Deals Right Now

I don't rate all of the appliances on sale. For example, I saw a huge 50% off discount on the SMEG automatic espresso machine at Crate & Barrel, which I tested earlier this year but didn't rate over 3-stars. I wouldn't even buy it on the sale price. However, the discounts below are the real deal. These are the most highly-rated SMEG appliances.

Whether you’re dreaming of a statement fridge, a sleek kettle, or a perfectly retro toaster, Black Friday is the time to make it happen. I'll be keeping an eye on this page every day in the lead up to Black Friday weekend - if more deals drop, I'll add them here and let you know whether we rate the product or not.

I'm hoping to see the SMEG Citrus Juicer and SMEG Soda Maker here soon, since these are my absolute personal favorites – and great for gifting.

In the world of aspirational kitchenware, SMEG is a dominant tastemaker. Its glossy white espresso machines and award-winning best refrigerators are iconic, but it is no secret that they demand plenty of kitchen space and a deep wallet.

However, over the past two years, I've seen the brand open its doors to a wider audience with a line of small, fun appliances (milk frothers, soda makers, tea kettles) priced under the $200 mark.

As someone who tests the best kitchen tools and baking essentials, like the best stand mixers, for a living, I was curious: are these petite SMEG purchases worth it? With baking season in full swing, I decided to test two of their smallest, bite-sized treats. Here's my review of both the $159.95 SMEG Scales and the $179.95 SMEG Tea Kettle.

The SMEG Scales Review

I used the SMEG scales for three months, weighing various ingredients for my everyday recipes – from solids like butter and baking flour to pantry staples like legumes, to liquids, such as water and milk for batters.

Product specifications

Design

The SMEG Scales are adorable. True to the brand’s retro identity, they feature a softly curved silhouette, a polished stainless-steel bowl, and a turquoise blue, black, or white base that would look right at home in a 1950s Italian café.

As you can see in the photo above, the bowl detaches easily for cleaning or transferring ingredients to your best stand mixer.

All together, the SMEG scales are surprisingly lightweight; I moved them around my kitchen island with ease. The build feels solid, the base has good stability, and digital controls are super user-friendly.

Performance

Before testing, I was a little concerned that the SMEG scales might just be all style and no substance. But they actually proved to be one of the most quietly competent tools I’ve used all year.

Weighing out flour, sugar, and even lightweight herbs, the response was consistently quick and accurate. Switching between units was intuitive, and the digital interface was bright and easy to read from a distance.

I also loved that I could actually mix ingredients in the SMEG scales bowl, which is really handy for small-batch pancakes or quick salad dressings.

The SMEG scales have become my go-to for baking and everyday prep – even measuring quinoa before boiling or nuts for granola. The compact footprint and pleasing aesthetic mean that they now live permanently on the counter, and I'll seriously never use another weighing scale again.

Cleaning & maintenance

The rechargeable battery on the SMEG scales lasted weeks without needing a top-up, which is great for frequent bakers – and it was easy to rinse the steel bowl after use. Just be sure to thoroughly dry the bowl before you place it back onto the housing for the scales; if you leave it damp, it can create mould and nobody wants that near their baked goods!

The SMEG Tea Kettle Review

I tested the SMEG Tea Kettle on my induction hob, but it is also compatible with gas and electric.

Product specifications

Design

The SMEG Tea Kettle is so cute and retro. The domed shape and spout have a vintage look, and the choice of pastel colorways can add a pop of personality to the kitchen. I chose the cream shade, which instantly added charm to my very modern, minimalist kitchen.

Performance

The SMEG kettle takes some getting used to. The handle is comfortable, but it is a little hard to pour from; the handle gets quite warm to the touch, and the pouring spout can be a bit spitty at times.

In my tests, it took about 3-and-a-half minutes to boil on my induction hob's fast boil. The gentle whistle is charming and cozy, and I was pleasantly surprised by how long it keeps the water hot afterwards.

Compared with the Aarke Stainless Steel Kettle that I use every day – the best non-toxic kitchen appliance I own, with its smooth, precise performance, safe materials, and a similar price point – I'm not sure the SMEG kettle stacks up.

If you have bags of patience and you're all about retro aesthetics, you might love it, but it is not a match for anyone chasing a quick cup of tea or coffee.

The verdict

SMEG’s mini appliances prove that you can get that unmistakable Italian-retro charm in a smaller, more affordable package. Testing both appliances certainly brought some joy and vintage style to my routine.

The SMEG scales were a clear winner for me. They are accurate, easy to use, and genuinely lovely to look at. If you bake or cook regularly like me, they’re well worth the investment and will quickly become a permanent countertop item.

I felt that the SMEG tea kettle is more about style than speed or efficiency. It’s nice for slow, cozy moments, but not the best choice if you’re often in a rush. I probably wouldn't buy it myself.

I make a traditional roast every holiday season, which means I need a lot of stove space. There’s the gravy, bread sauce, vegetables, cauliflower cheese, you name it, but that quickly turns into kitchen chaos.

Extra burners are a lifesaver, but let’s be honest: nobody wants an ugly, clunky induction plate ruining the festive aesthetic. Enter SMEG’s Portable Induction Cooktop – a chic, minimalist solution that gives you extra stove space without sacrificing style.

This little appliance is sleek enough to sit on your counter without standing out like a sore thumb, yet sturdy enough to handle your best induction pans and powerful enough to simmer delicate sauces to rapid boils.

The SMEG Portable Induction Cooktop has nine (yes, nine) temperature levels, so you can simmer, sear, or boil from anywhere around the kitchen. Compact and lightweight, it weighs just 7.3 pounds, making it pretty easy to move around, creating a functional kitchen island idea.

I like the modern touchpad controls, which allow you to switch on the heat levels effortlessly. There's also a power boost, meaning no more waiting forever for water to boil before tossing in your pasta or prepping vegetables. We have this function on the cooktop in the test kitchen, and trust me, it's an efficiency game-changer for the busiest meals of the year.

The included temperature probe is a small but thoughtful addition. It plugs directly into the side of the cooktop and allows you to monitor the temperature of your food from 104°F up to 210°F.

Even better, the probe can clip onto the top edge of your best induction pans, letting you keep an eye on sauces, gravies, or any delicate dish without hovering over the stove.

The only caveat? It's pricey, but in all the SMEG appliance reviews I have written, I rave that they feel durable and well-made. You can surely turn to this cooktop year after year – definitely read my SMEG countertop oven with air fry review, if you are looking for reliable, extra oven space, too.

Alternative portable cooktops under $100

If the $465 price tag feels a little too steep, I've found some more budget-friendly alternatives to give you some perspective.

If you’re thinking about upgrading your kitchen with an extra induction stove this holiday season, experts urge people to try this simple magnet trick to check if your pan will be compatible.

If you're in the market for new cookware too, I've tested and reviewed the best induction cookware and the best non-toxic cookware, too.

Making cold brew at home can be a faff. I've tried it a couple of times; filtering the water, grinding the beans, leaving my French press in the fridge for 12-14 hours. I've never had results as delicious as my favorite coffee shop.

Today, SMEG launched the ECF03 espresso and cold brew machine, which can brew a single cold shot in just two minutes. It promises to become one of the best coffee makers with its new on-trend functionality.

To celebrate the launch, they created a coffee van and I was invited along to sample drinks made with the new machine, plus cold foam crafted with the new SMEG mini milk frother.

If you love American-style cold brew, retro kitchen ideas, or serving perfect espresso martinis to guests, SMEG's new ECF03 2-in-1 espresso and cold brew machine is worth a closer look.

Last year, our coffee expert and former barista, Laura, tested the older SMEG ECF02 and was quite impressed, rating it four stars. The new ECF03 SMEG espresso machine, however, steps things up significantly, featuring custom temperature settings, 15-bar pressure, a 58mm portafilter, and a non-pressurised filter – the industry standards used by professional baristas.

The taste of the coffee brewed in the new SMEG ECF03 machine hit the spot, too. I tried hot and cold brews, and they were delicious. Not overly bitter, just sweet and richly flavored. Just like an expensive coffee shop, without the £5 price tag.

Like any good SMEG appliance, the new espresso machine is not just about function – the form is beautiful. I love the curvy, 50s-inspired design and bold colors. It is available in retro red, classic black, cream, white, pastel blue or baby pink.

If you're wondering: 'Are retro appliances still on trend?', my personal take is that my SMEG appliances always garner compliments when I have guests in my kitchen (I reviewed the SMEG soda maker and have it out on my countertop at all times).

Easy upgrades for barista-level cold brew at home

As I was watching the SMEG baristas whip up the drinks, I thought it looked pretty easy to make those 'sweet treat' drinks at home. These small extras can make any daily brew feel elevated and café-quality.

After tasting the coffee, I have my eye on the new ECF03 coffee machine (and matching milk frother), so I can quickly make that maple cold brew with vanilla cold foam at home.

I'll be getting my hands on the duo soon for a trip to the test kitchen, so I'll keep you updated with all the nitty-gritty details, plus, whether or not I add it to our guides on the best cold brew coffee makers and best espresso machines of 2025.

Curating a beautiful kitchen design involves many spinning plates. Cohesion is one of the key factors considered, which leads to many people questioning: should your kitchen appliances match?

When it comes to furniture, the general advice is not to buy matching sets, but does the same approach apply to your kitchen appliances? Opting for designs in the same style and finish feels like the right approach for a cohesive kitchen, but is a mismatched selection preferred by designers?

To get to the bottom of this great kitchen debate, we've turned to industry experts to find out whether or not you should invest in matching kitchen appliances.

Should your kitchen appliances match?

Kitchen appliances are a dominant feature in any scheme, large or small. Cookers, microwaves, and refrigerators are all large pieces that are carefully designed into a scheme, so choosing matching appliances seems like the best way to aid a seamless design.

'There are several benefits to ordering matching appliances. The top reason people invest in matching appliances is for the look, including the finish, handle design, and product logos. Even the grain of the stainless will offer a much more cohesive appearance,' says Jessica Petrino, educator and appliance expert at AJ Madison.

As well as the look of the appliances themselves, introducing matching appliances adheres to one of 2025's emerging kitchen trends – tone-on-tone kitchen schemes.

'Monochromatic tone-on-tone kitchens are having a comeback. It's a great way to bathe a client's home in a color that makes them happy, providing a warm and rich feeling,' says Shae Wilder, manager of designer relations at BlueStar.

'Full-color immersion can be used in architectural products like wainscoting and through texture to bring dimension, leaving the appliances to then match with any metals or finishes.'

It's not just the visual benefits that make matching appliances a more desirable choice. There's also a big cost factor to consider, as Jessica explains: 'Purchasing multiple appliances from the same brand will likely result in cost savings. Appliance package bundles can save consumers thousands.'

However, there's an argument for opting for mismatched appliances. While matching designs are ideal for a sleek kitchen, other interior design styles are better suited to a more eclectic finish.

Appliances in different colors, finishes, and designs can help create a kitchen that feels more rustic, or even retro. 'Most kitchens mix and match appliances to achieve that desired look and functionality,' says Jessica.

A great example is retro-style refrigerators. For a lot of people, classic Smeg appliances like the renowned colorful fridge is at the top of their list, which wouldn't match the rest of the appliances in the kitchen, but it would create a stylish statement in the scheme.

There is also a renewed appreciation for traditional range cookers – if you introduce one to your kitchen, it will be a unique feature that won't necessarily match the rest of your appliances.

There are also space constraints that need to be considered. While the thought of investing in appliances from the same brand range might appeal, they may not offer options that fit into the space you have for it. In these circumstances, it's more practical to opt for non-matching appliances.

'Should your space constraints or desired feature list make it necessary to buy products from various brands – that’s perfectly okay! If you are mixing brands, consider handle-free appliances,' says Jessica.

'For example, Bosch makes a dishwasher with a recessed handle and no logo, so it can blend seamlessly with many kitchens. Sharp makes a flush microwave drawer with no logo, Samsung, LG, and Bosch make handle-free refrigerator models that can blend with any kitchen.'

Essentially, there are no rules as to whether your kitchen appliances should match – it really depends on your space and style. If you like a sleek kitchen design, matching appliances are a great choice. But, if you want to create a more lived-in, eclectic design, mismatched features are better suited.

I never imagined I would find my dream house in a place inhabited by Britain's favorite fictional bear, but my visit to Paddington's home proved me wrong. The Primrose Hill townhouse is bold, maximal, and full of personality. At every corner, I was struck with unique, storied design inspiration that made me want to immediately purchase a house in the English capital just to fill it with chinoiserie wallpaper and trinkets from my travels.

The English country decor home was created by the team at Airbnb to celebrate the upcoming release of the Paddington in Peru film. It's inspired by the home Paddington shares with the Brown family in the film adaptations of his story, and every detail looks just like the movies. Though I expected to experience movie magic during my visit, I was not prepared for how beautiful I would find the space from a design perspective.

Even though I grew up in New England, the old English country style has always been one of my favorite looks. I love how full of history, life, and pattern British design style is and the way it feels unafraid of having a big personality. I can't say it's not one of the things that brought me to London. If you too dream of living in a house worthy of Paddington Bear, here are the top five lessons I am taking from the home.

1. Books Are Always The Best Decor

Bookshelf wealth was the trend of 2024, and in Paddington's living room, it's easy to see why. Ceiling-high bookshelves overshadow the need for any other decor, bringing instant color and hominess. Beyond the bookshelves, I especially love how the Airbnb team used antique books in alcoves and corners for unexpected warmth.

2. You Can Never Have Too Much Wallpaper

Wallpaper is one of the simplest ways to add pattern and character to your interiors, and it's especially striking in the Browns' bedroom. Rather than shying away from patterns in the rest of the room, the team took the bright paper as a cue to fill it with space with shapes, textures, and colors. I was especially struck by how this room was brought together by all the little details, like the glossy shells in the fireplace (see lesson number five).

3. Don't Be Afraid of a Gallery Wall

We are always talking about 'overlooked' spaces at Homes & Gardens, because tending to them can take your interior design from good to great. The hallways throughout Paddington Bear's home prove the rule. There was nary a staircase that the Airbnb team had not transformed with a gallery wall. These eclectic designs incorporating a variety of plates, frames, photographs, and paintings can be used in any home to create a collage of personal history.

4. Embrace Artful Clutter

Spaces like Paddington's bedroom and the Browns' bathroom (no bear-facilitated flood included) showed me the value of displaying personal effects in every space. The surfaces in both rooms are host to a variety of decorative objects, colorful textiles, and eye-catching garlands. Though clutter has historically been associated with visual overwhelm, clutter is also what makes rooms feel lived-in. Post-visit, I'm seriously considering embracing the 'recluttering' trend.

5. The Joy is in the Details

The blue and yellow kitchen was is far my favorite room in Paddington Bear's home. Though the bright countertops and vertical storage are eye-catching, it's the red accents that take the kitchen to the next level. A variety of retro-style Smeg Appliances and red and orange Le Creuset pots brings in a new color with just styling. By paying attention to seemingly 'small' details, the Airbnb team infused this space with a unique personality.

If you want to experience Paddington Bear's home for yourself, bookings for the Airbnb open at 9AM (GMT) on November 3, 2024. In the meantime, incorporating patterns, books, and intentional clutter can help you accomplish the same stunning English country style in any space.

When you think of an AGA, you might envision the rustic charm of English country kitchens, but you may also cringe at the hefty price tag and outdated technology. On the other end of the appliance spectrum, the best air fryers are amazingly efficient, but packaged in a functional design that can clash with your kitchen aesthetic.

Enter the Smeg Countertop Air Fry Oven with Steam. I tested this appliance in my home kitchen for a week and truly fell in love. Packed with the 1950s character of Smeg’s best refrigerators and toasters, this oven can steam, bake, air fry and more – offering vintage charm in a tech-savvy package.

So, if you're seeking a cooker that blends beauty with cutting-edge cooking functions (or if you’ve avoided ugly air fryers in the past), then this review is for you.

Smeg Countertop Air Fry Oven: First impressions

When I unboxed the Smeg Countertop Air Fry Oven, it was love at first sight. With its glossy cream finish and swoon-worthy retro design, this appliance brought instant character to my kitchen.

I ran into a couple of small hurdles. It is super heavy. I couldn't lift it to my countertop, so I had to annoy my partner for some assistance. Also, the power cord is disappointingly short. I couldn’t plug it in exactly where I wanted – this was irritating since I had a specific design vision.

Once it was in situ, I was thrilled. There was something magical about how instantly this piece elevated my space. It’s enormous, yes, but you’ll want to show it off to everyone who walks through the door.

Cooking performance

Test 1: Baking

For my first bake, I chose something simple: pain au chocolat made from pre-rolled dough. The oven preheated in just 4 minutes, which is leagues ahead of my traditional oven’s warm-up time. However, I couldn't figure out the built-in timer. I had to rely on my phone to keep track.

The pastries came out soft, though a touch paler than I would’ve liked, and the bottoms weren’t quite golden. I flipped them over and gave them a couple more minutes, and they finally emerged golden and soft inside. The perfect companion to my morning espresso.

Test 2: Steaming

I was so excited about the steam function. There are three to choose from. Pure Steam uses 100% steam to cook vegetables, rice, dumplings, and bao buns. Convection and grill steam are better for gently caramelizing meat with a tender, steaming interior.

For my first test, I steamed a bunch of Tenderstem broccoli and mangetout. When you steam cook, vegetables are exposed to less water, which reduces nutrient loss. Steaming helps preserve color, texture, and flavor. My veggies came out of the oven looking vibrant green and delicious.

I then steamed frozen gyozas. I re-filled the steaming tray with water and within minutes, the dumplings were soft, silky, and piping hot inside. I was super impressed. To add a little extra flavor, I pan-fried them in sesame oil, creating a crispy edge.

Test 3: Air Frying

For an easy Friday night dinner, my partner and I tested the air frying function with frozen French fries. We waited an agonizing five minutes for the preheat – we're used to making chips in the Ninja DoubleStack, which heats up immediately.

Once the oven was ready (with its signature, high-pitched ping) we added the fries and waited around 18 minutes for them to crisp up. The results weren’t quite as quick and delicious as the best air fryers I've tried, but they were still enjoyable.

We also air-fried Padron peppers for our dinner. They didn’t quite achieve the charred effect of more powerful models, but the peppers were tender and flavorful. Overall, the air frying function performs well, albeit less intensely and slower than the market leaders.

Test 4. Steam Baking

One of the standout features of this air fry oven is its steam-baking function. I decided to try making a sponge cake, and the process was incredibly simple. After a quick four-minute preheat, I added water to the steam tray and poured in my cake batter. The result? A light, fluffy, and perfectly moist sponge in just 20 minutes.

As part of my research into can you bake a cake in an air fryer, I also tested the air frying function for the top layer of my cake. The differences were striking, which you can read about in the article. If you’re a passionate baker with a love for patisserie, you’ll truly appreciate the steaming feature. It adds a touch of luxury to everyday baking, resulting in cakes that feel almost professionally crafted.

Ease of use

Despite its many functions, the Smeg Countertop Air Fry Oven is refreshingly straightforward to use. The dial allows you to switch between cooking modes effortlessly.

You can scan the QR code to get visual set-up instructions from Smeg. However, compared to the polished user experience I’ve seen from brands like Dreo and Ninja, it was a little underwhelming. I was expecting something a little bit more helpful, like chef instruction videos or a bespoke recipe booklet.

Cleaning

Cleaning the oven is relatively easy. Smeg recommends using the steam function to loosen any cooking grease or stuck-on food, which is a great idea. The removable trays are too large for the dishwasher, so you'll need to wash them by hand. Personally, I always use parchment paper or liners, so this isn't a problem for me. The sleek exterior makes wiping down a quick task – this is vital, since this appliance will stay rooted to your counter all year round.

Who would this suit?

The Smeg Countertop Air Fry Oven is a great fit for those who appreciate both form and function. If you’re drawn to retro aesthetics and want an appliance that looks as good as it cooks, this is the one.

I think it would add instant character to a plain kitchen, especially city apartments or beach houses that lack a built-in oven. It would also be ideal for a family household that enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, with features like steam baking adding a touch of luxury to everyday meals.

If you're after ultra-crisp air frying or need something for a smaller space, however, you may find yourself looking at more compact, speedier models.

How does it compare?

The main rival to the Smeg Countertop Oven is probably the 5-star rated Café Couture Oven with Air Fry. This offers more advanced smart technology, including Wi-Fi connectivity and customizable cooking modes. We weren't that enamored with its air frying function though.

If you're keen to get an oven that can steam like a professional chef, look to the Fotile Chefcubii. It's half the price of Smeg's oven and we really loved it, although the design was a bit clunky. In fact, if you're not sold on the Smeg, you can read up on all the rivals in our guide to the best countertop ovens.

If you're just looking for an air fryer (and you don't care about looks), you'll want to leave this page immediately and head on over to our best air fryer guide. These are ideal for quick, healthy meals, taking up very little space and heating up rapidly. They are also more budget-friendly, too.

Our verdict

Honestly, I was so reluctant to send this back. There's a huge, Smeg-shaped hole in my kitchen. I've come to view my functionally-designed oven and air fryer with contempt. I suppose I'll have to start saving, because with Smeg's stunning design and sleek cooking performance, comes a relatively steep price tag.

How we test

To test the best ovens and air fryers on the market, we focus on exceptional cooking performance. As a team of trained product testers, home cooks, and appliance experts, we assess each model by toasting, baking, broiling, and more. During these tests, we evaluate how evenly the oven browns and crisps, seeking results that are consistent and perfectly cooked.

Ease of use is essential, so we examine the intuitiveness of the controls, the preheat, and the quality of the instruction booklet. We also assess any special functions, such as grilling or steaming to gauge whether they're gimmicks or actually useful. We then make notes on capacity – important knowledge if you're hoping to cook large portions or use multiple racks.

Since cleaning is often a hassle, we evaluate how easy it is to maintain, checking if the racks and trays are removable and dishwasher-safe. We also scrutinize the materials, looking for durable, quality designs. After testing, we scour customer reviews to check out the reliability and overall satisfaction in the long term.

Finally, when investing in a kitchen appliance, price matters, so we weigh up the features, performance, and design to see if the toaster oven offers good value for money. Our goal is to ensure you select a model that not only performs well, but also looks stylish on your countertop for years to come.

A well-designed kitchen is good for far more than cooking. Both a hosting hub and family gathering destination, it's one of the most important rooms of any home. And when it comes to aesthetics and functionality, the small details – materials, finishes, and appliances – make all the difference.

When designing your own culinary space, it can be tempting to follow fads, but redesigning (or even just sprucing up) the kitchen can turn into a hefty investment. Often, classic and enduring designs are the better way to go. But on the quest to curate a timeless space, you shouldn't have to ignore this year's hottest kitchen trends – they're well-loved and appealing for a reason. That's where Smeg comes in.

With over 70 years of kitchen appliance design under its belt, Smeg is known for its stylish and sleek kettles, coffee makers, and more. Recently, Smeg's new UK managing director, Daniel Hadley, sat down with H&G to share how small, well-made appliances can make a huge difference in the kitchen – whether you'd like to follow the trends or stick with timeless standbys.

'I arrived in March, and one of the big things that attracted me was the heritage composition of [Smeg], because what it has enabled us to do is be innovative and playful but still stick to heritage,' says Daniel. 'I think that's really what's brought us through.'

In 1948, Smeg was founded by Vittorio Bertazzoni Sr. in Guastalla, a town in Northern Italy. And over the course of the brand's 70-year history, it hasn't shied away from its Italian heritage, and has displayed it through premium coffee expertise and cooking prowess. Daniel says one of his priorities as UK managing director is embracing an 'unapologetically Italian' mindset – 'that's us, and that's a point of difference,' he says.

'We've moved with the generations by being colorful, playful, and fun, but we've stuck to heritage design in the background. I think the big thing for me on heritage is you have to remain true. If you try to be a heritage brand without having heritage, you're not remaining true to who you are,' he says.

1. Using bright, bold appliances as accents

After an era of gray and white kitchens galore, designers and homeowners are looking to bring a bit more color into their culinary spaces. But often, when it comes to selecting bright and bold shades, our eyes prove bigger than our stomachs. Picking a color and running with it can feel a bit intimidating, and many get cold feet before going through with a new coat of paint or colorful tile backsplash install.

Appliances often offer the perfect solution to this dilemma – Daniel says that Smeg's selection and accessibility makes introducing brighter hues a bit less overwhelming. Instead of investing in a new countertop or kitchen island, opt for a bright Smeg kettle or statement-making toaster, says Daniel.

'What Smeg allows you to do is put color on your worktop at a far more achievable price point,' he adds. 'That puts a pink kettle on your worktop where you probably thought about having pink on your walls, got a bit anxious about it, and probably moved away from that.'

Daniel agrees that the tides are changing when it comes to color in the kitchen, sharing that his parents would 'never' have bought the brand's bright orange range cooker, but now we see bold appliances appearing more and more frequently. This want for color ties into an increased tendency to host and entertain in the kitchen, too. By expressing yourself through your kitchen's design scheme, you're able to show off your personality to friends and family as they visit.

'You go and buy new-build homes and they've all got open-plan kitchens now, because they are the heartbeat and people entertain in their kitchens. Drawing rooms are a bit of a thing of the past,' says Daniel. 'I think it's about bringing heritage products into those more playful settings for enjoyment and being expressive in those moments.'

2. Going retro with your appliance style

Retro style is another trend making waves in interior design this year, and Smeg's iconic designs fit right in. Daniel says he believes people are especially drawn to the nostalgic look in the kitchen. Just like in fashion, the kitchen trend cycle repeats itself, and certain design styles come back again and again.

The key to getting the retro look down is blending old-school charm with modern-day design sensibility, and appliances offer a fitting route to achieve this balance. Daniel says that Smeg is constantly trying to achieve this transitional design, allowing homeowners to decide how trendy, nostalgic, or modern they'd like to go.

'We need to bring the heritage brands to be associated with more modern design for some people, and allow people to make that choice. Because people will make that choice – they'll vote with their wallet,' he says.

3. Creating entertaining spaces with select appliances

Although Smeg has a wide range of appliances, spanning from stand mixers to washing machines, Daniel has a current favorite piece: the newest Semi-Professional Espresso Machine.

'La Pavoni is a brand that Smeg owns, and it sits again, right at the heritage of Italy,' he says. 'We've taken that heritage and combined it with Smeg, and created a coffee machine that's easy to use but delivers an extremely good, semi-professional coffee.'

Not only does the machine make high-quality espresso, but it also brings Daniel's friends and family together in the kitchen. A rising priority in kitchen design schemes, this community focus guides Smeg's ethos as well.

'I think more and more people are inviting people over to their homes,' he says. 'If you look at kitchens now versus what they used to be, they’re now big and expressive, and it’s all about enjoyment. It’s the heartbeat of every household. And actually, we're all about entertaining.'

'Whether that be round for coffee, whether it be about cooking your favorite dish for your friends, we want to be individuals. We want to be personalized in those things and create these dishes, those coffees for our friends,' he continues.

Whether the retro, colorful look is just right for your space, or you're looking for something more classic, Smeg's selection has functionality and sleek aesthetics front of mind.

Blue and white colors on ceramics are a classic. The beautiful balance of colors is crisp, elegant, and delicate. It's a failsafe option if you're looking to cultivate a timeless collection of plates, vases, and accessories in your home. 

If you look in my cupboards or on my mantle, you'll know that I love blue and white ceramics, but I'm also a bit of a snob. Whilst some pieces look undeniably elegant, there are plenty of knockoffs creeping onto crammed shelves in the store, which can make it hard to find truly premium designs amongst the masses.

Luckily for us, the British lifestyle brand, Laura Ashley, has partnered with VQ to bring an exquisite China Rose kitchen appliance collection, which features the most beautiful stand mixer and portable blender that I've ever seen. It's a treat for anyone, especially us blue and white snobs.

What's the collection and where can I find it?

Laura Ashley, the British Lifestyle brand is celebrating 70 years of success in the US, so they've teamed up with the home and electronic brand VQ to bring a series of appliances to the market, hand-glazed in some of Laura Ashley's most iconic prints.

These heritage designs are a classy take on the classic blue and white combination. The patterns, Elveden Navy, Elveden White, and China Rose, have been the brand's best sellers for years, so to be able to enjoy them in the kitchen is a true treat.

There's a whole range of different appliances on offer, but I've picked out some of my favorites: a portable blender, an immersion blender, a hand mixer, a slow cooker, and, a truly stunning stand mixer to deep dive into. If you want to know what to shop from the collection, here's my expert selection.

A quick introduction

I'll go into more details on the bigger, more substantial appliances. However, if you like the look of the style and just want a little bit of blue and white in your kitchen, here are my favorites from the collection.

More about the portable smoothie maker

We've tested some of the best personal blenders on the market and, whilst there are certainly some stunning designs on offer, I don't think any look as beautiful as this. All the blue and white decoration is hand-applied with incredible attention to detail, making this feel like so much more than a functional appliance.

The VQ Laura Ashley blender is completely cordless and super compact. It even comes with a 15 oz juice cup on top of the device, so you can use this with a drinking cap as your bottle. It's perfect for taking in your handbag or gym bag wherever you go.

The blender also comes with a built-in rechargeable battery that charges fully in 3.5-4 hours via a USB cable, which is included in the package. The 25,000-rpm engine powers six stainless steel cutter blades, which is plenty of power for crushing ice and handling tougher textures, such as frozen berries and leafy greens.

More about the immersion blender

I love immersion blenders. They're a great way to make the most of small spaces, especially if you live in an urban area and you need an appliance to function as a blender and food processor combination.

The VQ & Laura Ashley immersion blender is sleek (and beautiful, of course), with a 500-watt motor, and plenty of blending accessories. You'll get a pitcher for smoothies, a whisk for batters, as well as food chopper attachments. There's also a 10 oz whisking cup and pouring container if you're using your blender to make sauces. Whilst that might sound like a lot of accessories with the potential to get lost, this comes with a draw-string bag that has separate compartments, so you can keep everything in one place.

More about the hand mixer

Competition for being the best hand mixer on the market is tough. Braun, KitchenAid, and Smeg all make some stylish options, but the VQ & Laura Ashley one might have just clinched the spot for the most stylish model.

With a powerful, 300-watt motor and five speed settings, this boasts form and function. It has a special, comfortable grip, and comes with stainless-steel beaters and dough hooks that cover all your baking tasks.

More about the stand mixer

Stand mixers are some of the most beautiful, covetable kitchen appliances on the market and this is the most elegant one I've seen (and probably will ever see). The stainless steel bowl comes with a beater, whisk, and dough hook, so it'll be a useful assistant for any keen baker.

The capacity is perfect for family bakes. Plus, there are 10 speeds powered by an 1800-watt motor. It's set to be a favorite from this collection.

More about the slow cooker

Slow cookers are rarely beautiful, so I cannot overstate how pleased I am to see the VQ & Laura Ashley model in all its beauty.

The stainless steel bowl has a 3.5-liter capacity, which is brilliant for stews, soups, and casseroles. You can toggle between three heat settings and a keep warm function. Even better, the tempered glass lid helps keep all the moisture in your dish, whilst letting you check up on your dishes.

When you're finished cooking, the inner bowl can go in the dishwasher, making it just as easy to clean as it is to use. Plus, if you register the slow cooker on the VQ website, you'll get a three-year guarantee.

Why have Laura Ashley & VQ collaborated?

The thought behind a lifestyle and appliance brand collaborating isn't novel, but it's not always executed as expertly as the VQ & Laura Ashley collection has done. Carolyn D’Angelo, president of Laura Ashley Global, says, 'kitchens today are more beautiful and thoughtfully curated than ever before. The new range of floral-print tea kettles and toasters makes an everyday essential into something charming; customers will be proud to have their appliances on display.'

The brands wanted to deliver on substance and style, which is exactly what these do. They're charmingly timeless and a wonderful range. Last year, the brand launched a similar collaboration, which was a sell-out, so they're expecting similar success with the China Rose line.

Where can I buy the Laura Ashley & VQ collection?

Aside from shopping on the brand's site, the new Laura Ashley & VQ collaboration will be available at Wayfair, Bed Bath & Beyond, HSN, QVC and Home Depot.

I imagine that stocks will sell out soon, since this is a stunning style that was well-received the last time that VQ & Laura Ashley collaborated. In fact, the range received an extra feather in its cap when it recently won the Brand and Licensing Award of the Year in the Best Brand Licensed Electrical &/or DIY Products or Range category. I'll be testing them out over the next few weeks, so watch out for reviews.

Smeg has launched some wonderful new products this season: espresso machines, portable induction hobs, and countertop ovens. I love them all, but my favorite is actually one of their more understated products: weighing scales.

The Smeg digital scales are a kitchen classic. The stylish design combines a vintage silhouette with precision technology. They're available in a range of classic colors with premium stainless steel finishes. They're sensitive, easy to use, and neatly designed, what's not to love?

If you want to make your kitchen look more luxurious, these are a must. I've got everything you need to know, including a 20% discount.

What do the Smeg digital scales look like and why might I want them?

Smeg knows exactly how to make practicalities pretty. Even though the brand hasn't ever made digital scales before, if you glanced at these, you would think they had been making them since the brand was founded.

The digital scales come with all the signature Smeg details: curved edges, chrome finishes, and classic colors. You can pick up a set in white, black, or emerald green, all in matte finishes.

If you're someone who likes a kitchen that's as delicious to look at as it is to eat from, you need these. They're close to a design piece as well as being really practical too.

What are the details of Smeg's digital scales?

You'll be pleased to know that these scales can boast both brains and beauty. They come with a removable stainless steel bowl with 11 pounds of capacity. I can't overstate the usefulness of this. You fill it with flour and then carry it across the kitchen to your bowl or stand mixer. You won't need to mess up containers or constantly zero the same set of scales.

This design isn't particularly innovative, in fact, my grandma's scales worked on the same principles (without the digital LCD screen, of course). I'm pleased that Smeg have brought back this design because they were wonderful to use twenty years ago and I've been searching for a good-quality replica of them since.

The scales are cordless, of course, but if you want to enjoy the LCD display, you'll need to plug a USB charging cable (included) into your set. You can use the scales whilst it's charging, so you'll never be caught short.

The digital interface can convert between four different units of measurement: g/ml lb.oz/fl.oz. This means that you can work with any recipe, again, without having to dirty other utensils in your kitchen. You'll also be able to make use of the tare function if you want to weigh more than one ingredient into the bowl at once.

Where can I buy the Smeg Digital Scales?

As these are a new launch, they're not available in all the typical third-party retailers yet. I imagine they will be in the next few months, but, for now, your best bet is either directly from Smeg or from Tattahome. Here are the details for each retailer:

• Smeg: available in all colorways, but you have to buy them in-store, so prices vary (they'll find a store near you online)
• Tattahome: all the colorways are available for $140.75, plus new customers can save an extra 20% with the code SPRING20. You'll need to wait four weeks for deliver though.

When you think of '60s interior design trends, chequered floors, color blocking, and retro appliances probably come to mind. And while these designs have for so long appeared outdated, they are making a strong comeback this year, but in an updated and on-trend way.

Now more than ever we are seeing many interior design trends hailing from past decades, all labeled as retro or vintage. From the aesthetics proving popular to the colors and furniture filling our homes, they all nod back to decades past, and the '60s style is creeping its way back into our homes.

Not *everything* from the 60s is back in style, and there is a clear modernized approach to the revived design elements. To help keep you on the right track, we've asked interior designers which outdated '60s interior design trends are making a comeback and how to introduce them to our homes.

Revived '60s interior design trends to try this year

Styling old trends to work with today's aesthetics isn't always an easy task. But these designer-approved spaces will ensure your '60s-inspired features will look stylish rather than outdated.

1. Chequered floors

There are few design features from the '60s as iconic as the chequered floors – from diners to home kitchens to hallways, this striking flooring style is back in a big way. Authentic spaces of the era would have featured bright hues, but their revival sees a more subtle approach to color.

'The chequered floor look is fabulous in any setting, working in Victorian homes it feels authentic and classic, using marble in black and white or pairing black and terracotta squares can be a humble look for utilities, sculleries and conservatories – it's very traditional but can work surprisingly well in all homes,' explains Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL Kitchens.

Alongside these more traditional pairings, muted versions of the bold colors of the '60s are set to prevail. 'The pale chequered look with off-whites and pastels such as pale blue can give a wonderful mid-century feel, light and joyful it’s a lovely fresh look,' she adds.

2. Graphic colors

Bold hues and color blocking prevailed in the 60s, and this design style is once again proving popular. From brightly colored rooms to geometric color-blocked designs, this revived trend is a steadfast way to add personality and character to any scheme.

'From bold strokes of self-expressive colors to modernist minimalism, many design elements from the 1960s continue to influence today’s home décor. A fearless color palette featuring lime greens, organic mustards, and groovy oranges, along with bold patterns and artwork, offers a personalized touch,' says Hannah Yeo, senior manager of color marketing at Benjamin Moore.

'Drawing inspiration from the color-blocking fashion trend of the 1960s, this graphic treatment painted with Pan for Gold 181, Golden Gate 033, and Glade Green 489, offers a creative approach to infusing vibrant colors into the space. The decor takes a minimalistic approach to balance the eye-catching elements. The clean and simple lines of the bed and the side table mirror the graphic shapes found in the rectangular pattern, bringing cohesion and balance to the room,' she adds.

3. Wooden cabinetry

The '60s decade was part of the Mid-century era, and wooden cabinetry was all the rage. And as this style of kitchen makes a comeback, you'll be glad to hear it's returning in a more elevated style.

'Mid-century cupboards are definitely gaining popularity in the kitchen world – I think it’s the natural soft colors of wood and the nostalgic feel they radiate. People want their homes to feel calm and tranquil and the mid-century look offers this along with a less ostentatious feel and more of a recycled and authentic look,' says Helen.

'Wood has always been a popular choice for kitchens but not the orange pine of the eighties but more of an elegant and sleeker style and color that blends well in living and dining areas too, giving the kitchen and family rooms of the home a soft and comfortable air,' she adds.

4. Bold furniture pieces

Bold furniture choices might have fallen out of favor in recent years, replaced by classic designs made from natural materials, but this year we are seeing a renewed appreciation for these statement pieces.

In this dining room by Erin Myers Design, a nod to the '60s style has been introduced through various elements, but most noticeably the bold yellow dining table. 'The use of bright colors harkens back to the decade where bright colors and pastels were mixed to great effect,' explains Erin.

This revived '60s interior design trend comes as no surprise, as homeowners look to decor and furniture items that infuse their spaces with unique appeal. Pairing this yellow table with a warm hue on the walls and chairs with rattan detailing (another '60s reference), the space has the perfect balance of nostalgia and modernity.

5. Colourful kitchens

Wooden cabinetry isn't the only kitchen design of the '60s making a comeback. The decade is renowned for its bright, bold colors – colorful kitchens were at the center of it all, and they're having a revival.

'Multi-colored cupboards in brighter mixes and combinations is something we’ve seen a lot more of recently. The '60s block bold look is fresh and youthful and adds a fun element to your home. Mixed with mid-century classics and straight lines it’s a perfect antidote to the obvious parred-back look so many people opt for,' says Helen.

'Being bold with color can be scary, especially when mixing several, but when done well it’s a unique and unusual choice that can make for a very cheerful home,' she adds.

6. Lucite decor

Home decor and furniture of the '60s featured a lot of acrylics, one of the most popular being Lucite. Usually colorful and translucent, this material has gone from an outdated design feature to a much-loved element that adds a playful element to interiors.

'A '60s interior design trend I have happily welcomed back is Lucite, especially in a kitchen or bathroom as cabinet hardware or artwork framing. Lucite is a vintage style that also feels very modern, and I love how it allows light to pass through and can make a space feel bigger. It also always adds a cool vibe to any room,' explains interior designer Louise Hane.

With more people gravitating towards decorating with vintage pieces this year, it's no surprise people are finding a renewed sense of joy in this once-outdated trend.

7. Terrazzo designs

The popularity of Terrazzo flooring in Californian and Floridian homes took off in the '60s, both for its unique design and cooling properties. And while Terrazzo flooring isn't making a comeback this year, there is an emerging trend for introducing design elements in the style.

'We went for a modern take on 60s inspiration in this kitchen featuring slab front cabinets, mixing a solid white and wood grain, with a terrazzo-inspired quartz countertop, and brought in those retro bright pops of color with accessories,' explains Melanie King, designer at Isy's Interiors.

The new approach to Terrazzo proves the return of '60s interior design trends is all about embracing the style of the decade but making it work today. 'This trend is all about the functionality of straight lines combined with the whimsy of color and the throwback to classic materials,' Melanie adds.

8. Retro appliances

No '60s kitchen was complete without retro appliances – schemes with a brightly-colored, freestanding Smeg fridge was iconic of the decade, but 2024 is the year this design trend seems to be making a comeback following a prolonged period of integrated appliances.

'We love a retro fridge or cooker, they have such personality and good shapes that you don’t get in modern sleek appliances. Adding a chubby retro fridge can alone make a kitchen more appealing and fun,' says Helen.

The popularity of retro appliances has increased thanks to their accessibility – original examples can still be found, but companies are crafting retro-style appliances that offer an authentic nod to the original trend. 'This retro look has been around for two or more decades but it’s still loved and coveted whether it’s a true vintage piece or a new classic,' adds Helen.

As color and character dominate 2024, it's no surprise these are the '60s interior design trends people are falling back in love with. While some styles have returned as they were, others are being revived in a more nuanced way that feels more on-style in today's homes.

So, whether you reintroduce bold color-blocked schemes or take inspiration from the kitchen designs of the decade, there are plenty of ideas here for adding a nostalgic nod to the '60s!

Whether it's Smeg, Breville, Dash, or Zwilling, the process for how we test toasters at Homes & Gardens is all the same. We put them through their paces across gluten-free, fruit bread, bagels, and pop tarts to make sure that these can stand up to the needs of a range of kitchens.

Our team of expert testers takes curating our guide for the best toasters incredibly seriously. We want to find a toaster for every kind of kitchen, whether you want to get techy and creative, simple and stylish, or you just need sheer capacity, there will be one for you.

If you're interested in finding out more about how we test toasters, you're in the right place. Here's where we spill the tea (and toast) on our reviews process. 

How we test toasters at H&G

You'll probably have noticed that all of our reviews follow the same format. That's because every toaster undergoes exactly the same tests, with the same people, on the same foods. That way, we can compare each toaster knowing that there's no biases affecting our perceptions. 

How we choose which toasters to test

There are plenty of brilliant toasters on the market and they're only getting better. Before we get hands-on with any toasters, we do our research. Our team of experts is always looking at the latest toasters on the market, as well as consumer demands. That means that we've always got an offering for everyone. 

We stay in regular contact with big brands such as Breville and Smeg, so we know when there are new releases on the market. However, we also want to test the smaller start-ups that are disrupting the market, so we are all over everything that the toaster market has to offer.

Why we talk about unboxing and first impressions

Whilst we don't like to make snap judgments based on appearances, we also know what a staple a toaster is in the kitchen. These are likely to sit out on your countertops full-time, so we make sure to let you know about the dimensions, weight, and appearance of your toaster. If you can choose different finishes and sizes, you'll want to know so that you can match them to the interior design of your kitchen.

The unboxing process can be equally telling when it comes to testing toasters, which is why we always talk about it in our reviews. Brands that have thought about what it's like to set up your machine are likely to be those who have thoughtfully designed premium toasters. We'll let you know if the packaging is recyclable, reasonably sized, and whether any extra accessories, such as toastie tongs come included with your toaster. These aren't essentials, but it's always nice when a brand includes them.

Which types of toast we test and why

As much as our experts would love to eat toast all day, we don't have time to work through the hundreds of different types of bread, so we have selected six types to give us a comprehensive idea of how a toaster can handle the most popular, diverse foods out there. We look at simple white bread, gluten free bread, fruit bread, pop tarts, sourdough, bagels, and frozen bread. Here's why:

• White bread: this is the most common, popular bread out there. Chances are that you'll be using this in your toaster, so we want to know that it can toast evenly and thoroughly. The toast makes a great canvas for checking how evenly a toaster will brown your bread too.
• Frozen bread: we freeze the same white bread and then stick it in the toaster, using a frozen setting if possible. We want the toast to be evenly browned and warmed right through.
• Gluten-free bread: notoriously temperamental, this is an essential test, especially for those who enjoy gluten-free food. We make sure that this is toasted thoroughly and evenly with a nice, crisp bite.
• Bagel: some toasters have special bagel functions, since the steamed outside won't need much heat and the cut side will need more browning. Even if the machine isn't a specialist in bagels, we'll test it, looking for a doughy center, crisp cut side, and warmed outside.
• Fruit bread: as an enriched dough with dried fruit, fruit bread can be incredibly difficult to get warmed through and crisped up without burning.
• Sourdough: whether you make your own or buy it from a bakery, sourdough takes a long time to toast and it comes in long, wide, oddly-shaped slices. We'll check that a toaster can handle sourdough without toasting it to teeth-breaking territory

Aside from testing special functions and looking for specifics on each slice of toast, we have some general assessments that we make for each slice of toast in each toaster. 

We time how long it takes for toast to look golden brown. Ideally, it will be within one to two minutes, but some toasters can take up to five minutes. We'll also measure how evenly golden the toast is across both sides. The toast shouldn't be burnt in some places and pale in others. 

The way that we check temperatures is by cutting the toast in half, so we can look at a cross-section of how well the toast is warmed through. We spread butter over the toast, making sure it has enough structure to have spreads over it and enough heat to melt the butter into the crumb structure too.

We also make sure to test any special features, such as a touch-screen, viewing window, 'take a look' function, and pre-sets for specific toasts. We also measure the size of the slots, so you know the depth and width of your toaster. If you make your own bread of have a lot of mouths to feed, this is a really important feature.

Why we talk about cleaning, storage, and maintenance

Toasters aren't high-maintenance, but it's important that when you do need to clean them, it's an easy process. Almost all toasters have crumb trays, some are easier to take out than others. They might have gathered crumbs effectively, or some toast might have stuck to the sides of the toaster. If a toaster easily gets grease marks on it or crumbs everywhere, we'll let you know about that too.

As we've said, toasters demand some premium real estate in your kitchen, so you'll want to know their dimensions, how easy they are to move around, and what your storage options are. That means that you'll know what to expect when one arrives in your home.

How we place it compared to others

With so much to choose from, you'll want to know that you're buying the best toaster on the market for your toasting needs. There's no better people to tell you about that than us, because we've tested all that the market has to offer. 

We'll let you know how it compares to models at a similar price point, with a similar offering. Here, we'll also assess value for money, build-quality, warranties, and other external factors that you'll want to know about before investing in a toaster.

Armed with all of this information, you can rest assured that you're buying the very best toaster for your kitchen.

Beauty is easy. Function is easy. But a design that brings together both? Now, that can be a rare achievement; but it is a rare achievement that Uma Thurman nails in her simple but effective space.

The actress's kitchen ideas feature a simple white color scheme with subway tiles, a stainless steel cooktop, and wooden shelving. Above the stove, large hooks serve as easy storage for Thurman's collection of copper pots. The vintage-inspired pots allow for both drop-of-a-hat cooking and provide chic decoration in the space.

Pro-designers love Thurman's practical and stylish kitchen storage idea. 'In interior design, certain combinations effortlessly capture timeless elegance and contemporary charm. The pairing of copper pots as decor with a backdrop of white subway tiles for the backsplash is a striking example of this harmonious fusion,' says Nina Lichtenstein, Westchester-based interior designer.

She continues, 'Copper, having been prominently displayed in our grandparents' kitchens, has remained a standout go-to choice for injecting personality while beautifully blending feelings of antiquity and modernity.'

Crucially, this style works because it's an example of transitional design, meaning that it brings together two periods of interior design. Lichtenstein states: 'This pairing blends classic and modern elements, resulting in a timeless aesthetic that transcends trends. The simplicity of white subway tiles serves as an ideal backdrop, allowing the warm tones of copper to shine and infuse the kitchen with character.'

Because of the mixing of periods, the look will never go out of style. She continues, 'This combination embodies both sophistication and understated luxury, which resonates with the growing interest in creating inviting and functional kitchen spaces. As more individuals embrace the concept of blending classic elements with contemporary design, we anticipate seeing an increase in the use of copper pots and white subway tiles across kitchen renovations and interior projects'

Furthermore, Thurman's hanging pot storage ideas against her kitchen backsplash are a masterclass in blending textures to draw the eye. Lichtenstein tells Homes & Gardens: 'The reflective surfaces of copper pots against the matte finish of subway tiles create an intriguing play of textures and depths. This contrast adds visual interest to the kitchen, making it a focal point that is both inviting and aesthetically pleasing.'

Shop the look

Inject your home with the Uma Thurman touch by pairing copper pots with white kitchen accessories.

Decorating is never easy but, with an eye towards the combination of beauty and function, it can be simple. Uma Thurman's kitchen is the perfect example.

As the GOAT of professional tennis, Serena Williams knows a thing or two about remaining trendy yet timeless, and this rings true for her interiors. From her crisp white exterior paint covering her Miami home to her sophisticated, matte black outdoor kitchen, it's clear that the athlete and entrepreneur favors simple, bespoke design.

Naturally, her kitchen follows suit with a forever staple: white cabinets. In a recent cooking video posted to her Instagram page, Williams revealed how her clean and light cabinets contrast the metallic details, making for a modern and refined culinary space.

While colorful painted cabinet trends ebb and flow, white kitchen cabinets remain a safe but versatile choice, and it does not look like it's going out of style anytime soon, as design experts explain.

'White is a classic look, and it’s hard to beat the classics,' says renovation expert Deborah Lamberton. 'When it comes to something that people have to see and use daily, they tend to want it to be something that is simple but also visually pleasing, and white kitchen cabinets usually hit the mark for those points with most people.'

While white cabinets can fit into practically any design style, from quiet luxury to the ever-popular organic modern aesthetic, Lamberton says there is one trend in particular that reigns supreme.

'Shaker cabinets are extremely popular these days and getting them in white is one of the most common choices that people make when renovating a kitchen space,' she says. 'Shaker is popular for the same reason that white is popular – it’s simple and easy. It’s classic and yet modern all at the same time, and better than that, they are easier to clean too.'

In order to keep white cabinets looking squeaky clean, Lamberton recommends a method as classic as the cabinets themselves: soap and water.

'If it takes more than that, you can try scouring pads or a pomace stone depending on the paint finish and what the grime is from,' she explains. 'Worst case scenario, you have to repaint the cabinets, and one of the benefits of already having white paint is that it forms the base coat for any color change choice thereafter.'

Shop H&G's white kitchen edit

Cabinets aside, we can enjoy the white kitchen aesthetic with these handpicked pieces below. Like cabinets, they're not set to fall out of fashion anytime soon, so we're almost certain they're worth the investment. Happy shopping, the Williams-inspired way.

The Smeg ECF02 is the brand's latest, upgraded espresso machine. It comes with a new control panel, an easy-to-use steam wand, and an extra-retro design. On paper, the upgrades look good, but I was keen to see them in action.

As a former barista and H&G's coffee expert, I've tested over 60 coffee makers as well as some of the best espresso machines in the world. I used the ECF02 to make espressos, Americanos, and cappuccinos. I would love this as much as the rest of their coffee makers. Spoiler alert: I did. 

It certainly scores top marks for style, simplicity, and the coffee basics. There's a lot to love, but also some quirks that you'll need to learn about before you get brewing. I'll give you all the details further below.

Specifications

Unboxing

I’m really impressed with Smeg. Their products are some of the nicest to unbox in so many ways. They come in a premium-feeling, completely recyclable cardboard box. The machine is cushioned by egg-carton-style cardboard and then wrapped in some delicate cloth. I would keep the cloth because it doubles up as a dust bag or cleaning wipe. Then, you can recycle the rest.

Whilst Smeg provides some cleaning tools, a premium-feeling portafilter, portafilter baskets, and a branded tamp, they skipped the all-important milk pitcher. These are inexpensive and you can buy a stainless steel milk jug from Walmart, for example.  However, it’s slightly frustrating when you want to start milk frothing and you can’t because you’re missing a key component of your coffee set-up. 

On the countertop, this looked nothing short of beautiful. I tested the cream model and quickly became obsessed with it. I don’t have the space or the need for one of these in my kitchen (I already have an espresso machine) and yet I found myself desperately trying to think of reasons why I might need another one. 

Who would it suit?

Smeg’s latest, slightly boxy update on their espresso machine makes this even more beautiful than the last model if that’s possible. I think the navigation buttons and functions are much more straightforward too. They're essentially the same, just in a much more convenient position, making this perfect for those who are new to the world of espresso machines. It’s also compatible with ESE pods, so if there’s a specific K-cup that you really enjoy, you can still brew it, barista-style, in here.

As always, this is more expensive than comparable espresso machines. It also doesn’t come with an integrated grinder, so you’ll need to make room on your countertop and in your budget for some extra investments. If you’re looking to make a style statement with your espresso machine though, this is worth every dollar.

What is it like to use?

The beauty of a machine this simple is how easy it is to use. The top has three buttons: single shot, double shot, and steam wand. It might sound limiting, but this is all you need to make a cafe’s menu of coffees.

Once I had filled up the reservoir (which has a useful handle) and run the machine through a rinse cycle, I was ready to get testing. 

Test 1: espresso

The first, most important test we put any coffee maker through is on espressos. These are the base of all specialty coffees, so it’s important that your machine can extract them at the perfect temperature.

I used Smeg’s coffee scoop to add 0.56 oz of coffee to my portafilter. I like to use 0.6 oz, so added a little extra and used their premium tamp to push down on my grounds. There’s a slight discordance between the portafilter’s plastic handle and the weighty tamp. It makes the portafilter feel a little cheap at first. However, when I locked this into the machine, I could see why it was so light. The whole of the espresso machine has been designed to feel lightweight. This means that a heavy portafilter just wouldn’t fit right. For example, when I locked my portafilter into place, I had to keep a hand on top of the machine to steady it, otherwise it would lift off the countertop. 

Once in place, I extracted a single shot of espresso. Even from the first shot, this was speedy. I got a full 1.5 oz in 24 seconds. It had a nice, thick crema and delivered on full, delicious caramel notes. 

I also wanted to see how the double shot of coffee would compare. This brewed in 28 seconds and was 2 oz, so a little smaller than I would have expected, but it’s still definitely a double shot. The flavors were still faultless and absolutely delicious: no complaints here.

Test 2: Americano

Making an Americano is easy. You can remove one layer of the drip tray to fit taller cups under the brew head, so make sure you don't miss out on this feature, holding your travel mugs at an angle.

Word of warning: the hot water pressure is high. I was pleased not to already have my espresso in the cup, because I have a feeling there would have been quite a few coffee splashes on me and my countertop. Obviously, as the glass fills up, there’s less splashing, but you’ll still need to be careful. 

The water wasn’t boiling, which is exactly what you want for coffee. Once I had my hot water and espresso together, it was 195 degrees, perfect for drinking straight away. The flavors were rich and bold, although not very strong. 

Test 3: cappuccino

The cappuccino test is really all about milk textures. I used both dairy and oat milk to make cappuccinos in the Smeg and both worked equally well. It was frustrating not having a Smeg steam jug (luckily I have one already), but this was a little oversized for the slightly stubby wand, meaning I had to work with my angles and quantities quite carefully — not something that a beginner would enjoy. 

As a result of the angles and faffing, my cappuccinos were good, but not as good as I would have liked them to be. I had to work the milk a lot harder after steaming it (banging my jug on the side) to get air bubbles out. The flavors were good though. The espresso really got to shine in the balance of sweeter oat and dairy milks. It was delicious. 

Cleaning, storage, and maintenance

As this is such a small machine, it requires very little cleaning. The drip tray sides out, releasing some neat storage underneath too. This is easy to rinse, dry and re-fit. As long as you’re running regular rinse cycles and cleaning the steam wand after every use, you won’t need to do much maintenance on the Smeg. My word of warning would be that this won’t tell you if you need to clear the brew head or unclog the steam wand, you just need to know these things. 

How does it rate online?

As you might expect, people love the Smeg’s aesthetics. Without fail, everyone commented on this as a beautiful espresso machine. People were generally happy with the curvy, colorful upgrades that the ECF02 has on its predecessor, praising the straightforward controls, beginner-friendly features, and coffee flavors.

As with the ECF01, lots of reviewers found that the steam wand was shorter than the average espresso machine. This makes the milk texturing process trickier than on some alternate machines, but it's nonetheless good. The machine is also very sensitive to coffee and grind size, so it took lots of people a little longer to get used to making expert coffee the first time around, but everyone got there in the end.

How does it compare?

If you’re choosing between the older Smeg model and this one, I really think it’s a matter of aesthetics. They both can do essentially the same things, except one is all curves and chrome and the other is a little more boxy. The benefits of the boxy design mean that you can warm cups on top. Plus, there’s more space and storage options. Both require you to invest in a coffee grinder though. 

If you like the small, svelte design of the Smeg but not the price tag, it’s worth looking at the KitchenAid. This is one of my favorite espresso machines, because it’s easy to use, available in a range of colors, and still makes good coffee. It’s not quite as attractive as the Smeg, but it’s more than half the price and possibly feels more durable. I didn’t have to use a hand to brace it when locking my portafilter into place, for example.

Should you buy it?

If you have the budget to invest in a more expensive espresso machine, the Smeg is worth every penny. It's well-designed, feels premium, and makes delicious coffee. The simple controls are better for beginners. This is great if you're new to coffee and want to make a style-statement. If you're an aspiring barista, you might be left a little wanting though.

How we test

We take all of our espresso machines to our test kitchen, so we can replicate domestic use of every machine. It's also the perfect place to test the limits of each machine, so we make sure that we do. If a machine boasts a specific feature, we'll test it. We'll also look at day-to-day espressos and Americanos too. Most importantly, we always let you know how the coffee tastes.

We make notes on the whole process, from unboxing to cleaning, storage, and maintenance, so that you know everything you need to before making a purchase. If you'd like to know more, we have a page dedicated to how we test coffee makers.

I’ve lost count of the number of times people have requested an AeroPress review. The brand is so iconic, that they’ve become the namesake of their own brewing method. 

The patented AeroPress technology is a melting pot of French press, single-serve, drip, and moka pot brewing techniques, taking the best parts of all of them. You use high pressures, a fine filter, and a plunger to immerse grounds in coffee. It makes an espresso-style shot to rival some of the best espresso machines and some decent cold brew too.

As a former barista and H&G’s coffee expert, it was inevitable that the AeroPress would land in my kitchen. I used it to brew coffee and as expected, it’s exceptional. I think you'd be hard-pressed (sorry) to find someone who doesn’t like it. 

Specifications

Unboxing

This is not the only reason that I love the AeroPress, but the minimalist packaging certainly makes a good first impression. The hexagonal box is completely recyclable which is great for the environment, but I'd be tempted to hold onto it. Useful insights into how the AeroPress works and brewing tips are printed all over it. It's one of the few times that I've felt that a brand is using the packaging to its full potential.

Once I had taken the AeroPress out of its (very informative) box, I put it on the countertop. It's everything the pictures suggest. The scientific-looking, small coffee maker isn't quite like anything else. I've seen AeroPress's compact design get a lot of love from people who travel a lot and who are short on space at home. As someone who does both of these, I can see its appeal. 

This is made from Tritan, a BPA-free plastic. Whilst these kinds of coffee makers often have noses turned up at them, the AeroPress feels surprisingly durable. It's thick without being heavy, thoughtfully designed, and a real talking point. I have no complaints. 

Who would it suit?

The AeroPress has established itself as the coffee maker of professional, working coffee geeks. I don’t know how they feel about this reputation, but I think this is well-founded. Whether you'll be brewing from the hotel, office, Air BnB, ski lodge, or tent, you'll want the AeroPress with you. 

The dimensions of the AeroPress mean that it’s easy to take in your bag. I'd compare it to a small travel mug or water bottle in terms of how much space it demands. Uber-small designer bags might not quite fit it, but the average handbag, backpack, or briefcase certainly could. 

The AeroPress can make some delicious coffee. You can use room-temperature water if you want a cold brew, but you'll need access to some sort of hot water source if you want hot coffee. So, if you plan on going completely off the grid, make sure to have a solar kettle with you.

What is it like to use?

Given that AeroPresses are one of a kind, you’ll need to familiarise yourself with their unique brewing methods. I’m a visual learner, so watched this video from the coffee expert James Hoffman, but there are instruction leaflets and plenty of guides online. The process isn’t complicated, so once you’ve done it once, you’re set.

The instructions don't tell you to rinse the AeroPress, but I gave mine a quick clean to remove any factory dust. AeroPress sends your coffee maker with a paper filter, but if you want to use a stainless steel filter, you'll need to invest in one of these separately.

The AeroPress instructions give you four different brewing options: American, espresso-style, latte, and cold brew. I wanted to give each of these a fair chance and thorough test, so I thought I'd start with the key to any delicious coffee: espresso.

Test 1: espresso

The espresso test is the first one I put all of our coffee makers through. If it can make an intense and flavorful shot in next to no time with minimal mess, you know you've got a good thing going. I think you'll be pleased with how the AeroPress performed. 

I followed the instructions by the book. This meant removing the plunger, placing the stainless steel filter in the bottom basket, and screwing it on. Getting the base in place and tightly secured took some elbow grease to start off with (not to mention when I had to undo it for cleanup). However, this got easier over time and when I had finished making all my coffees, I found it pretty easy.

Once the base was in, I put one scoop (0.5 oz) of freshly ground coffee into the bottom of my AeroPress. If you want a double shot of coffee, you add two scoops (1 oz), but I thought I would start things off simply. 

The markers on the side of the chamber are clearly marked with the numbers one to four. I filled my chamber up to number one with water heated to 185 degrees. You fill up to the second marker for a double shot.

Some water dripped out the bottom of my AeroPress at this stage. Luckily, I already had mine sat on a cup (as instructed), but if you didn't, this might be a nasty shock. AeroPress gave me a tip for stopping this dripping. If you gently insert the plunger at an angle then you can lift the plunger up and create a vacuum-like seal that stops the dripping. 

Next, I stirred (coffee geeks would say 'agitated') my grounds with the AeroPress stirrer for about ten seconds. I let my coffee sit for a minute before putting the plunger on and pressing down.

AeroPress' instructions say that some resistance is normal. I expected it to be tough to plunge, but the resistance wasn't nearly as strong as I thought it would be. I pushed gently (as instructed) and then, when I had pushed all the water through my grounds. I lifted the AeroPress up, screwed the bottom off, and kept pushing until my disc of saturated grounds popped out. The whole process was neat and completed in under two minutes. 

I don't know quite what I was expecting from the AeroPress, but my coffee shot was remarkably delicious. It had the syrupy texture of a proper espresso and the rich intensity of one too. Having made it by hand, I felt suitably satisfied. 

Test 2: Americano

Making an Americano follows much of the same process as making an espresso, except that I had to fill the cylinder up to the number four on the side. I plunged again and my cup filled up with dark, rich-looking coffee. 

I tested how the AeroPress sits on a range of coffee cups, since this is pretty key for a clean brewing process. I used a small shallow one, a big wide one, a tall slim one, and it sat sturdily on top of them all. You'd have to have wider-mouthed cups than me (which is pretty impressive if you do) for your AeroPress not to sit on top. It also won't sit on small, espresso shot glasses properly; the wide brewing head will end up pouring coffee onto the countertop.

I extracted an impressive 6 oz of coffee from my AeroPress. That's a decent-sized serving. It might be a little small for some, but it leaves room for you to add milk and syrups to your coffee afterward.

When it came to the all-important taste test, I was really impressed. This came with the notes of a specialty brew: there was some nuttiness, a little sweetness, and some really gorgeous bitter chocolate. I could see a light crema on top of my cup, which even the best drip coffee makers struggle to achieve. Again, the whole process, including brewing was wrapped up in about two minutes. My coffee tasted good enough for me to drink it even quicker, but I sipped and enjoyed it. A lot.

Test 3: cold brew

Now, I'm a bit of a cold brew connoisseur (even if I do say so myself), so the idea that the AeroPress could make a smooth cup of cold brew in just two minutes rang some alarm bells for me. The process should take at least 18 hours, if not 24. However, I've been surprised by a speedy cold brew both on De'Longhi's La Specialista Maestro espresso machine and Eletta Explore bean-to-cup machine, so I tried to withhold judgment.

The process is incredibly similar to making an Americano, except that you use filtered water at room temperature. A scoop of coffee goes in, you fill up to number four with water, give the grounds a stir, wait for a minute (or three) and then plunge and press your coffee. I even used medium-fine coffee grounds (cold brew would normally be coarse). 

AeroPress recommends brewing over ice, so, under instruction, that's exactly what I did. Whilst this wasn't quite the cold brew that I lovingly set-up to infuse overnight, I have to say, it was pretty good. The flavors were notably smoother and sweeter than a hot coffee and I really enjoyed drinking it. I have been served drinks less worthy of the cold brew stamp by qualified baristas, so the AeroPress did a pretty good job. I would say that the flavors don't have quite the same 'depth' to them and that my drink was more watery, but I'm being picky. This was good.

Test 4: latte

I never expected to be able to make a latte with the AeroPress, so I had almost written it off from my testing schedule. Then, on the instruction leaflet, I saw that AeroPress deemed it possible. A closer look at the instructions uncovered that you essentially make an Americano and then add steamed milk at the final step. If you want a latte, you'll need to invest in one of the best milk frothers. 

I gave this a go since I have an espresso machine with a good steam wand in my kitchen. Whilst I did really enjoy my drink — it tasted like my latte had been made in a proper coffee shop — I did have to enlist help from a milk steamer (I used the Smeg milk frother, which you can buy from QVC). 

Top tips

This isn't an official section of our buying guide, but there was something about the unconventional AeroPress that made me want to experiment. I dedicated some time to playing around with the AeroPress, seeing what else it could do and I have come away with a few top tips.

Firstly, I wasn't a big fan of the instant dripping when I poured my hot water over the grounds. I like to bloom my coffee before I drink it (this gets the CO2 out and results in a smoother brew), but when the coffee starts draining, it's hard to get a really good bloom. I found that if you switch up the way that you use the AeroPress, you can bloom and exert a lot more control over the way that you brew. Here's what I did.

I put my plunger in the chamber (without the base or filter in place) and used the plunger to stand the AeroPress on the countertop. Then, I added my coffee grounds, effectively working the AeroPress like before, but the opposite way up. I added a small amount of hot water to my grounds and gave them a stir and thirty seconds to properly bloom. Next, I added the rest of my hot water, let it sit for a few minutes, and then screwed on the base. 

I placed my cup on the top of the AeroPress and, with one hand holding the cup in place and the other holding the AeroPress, I flipped the whole thing around so that the cup sat on the countertop again. Then, I plunged my coffee and it was ready to drink. This will either sound hellish or heavenly to you, depending on both your coordination and how much you care about blooming your coffee. Either way, I'd recommend giving it a go, even if you only do it once.

Cleaning, storage, and maintenance

Although the AeroPress is dishwasher safe, I would recommend that you hand wash yours. There are plenty of places for coffee grounds to get stuck and if you don’t clean these out properly, you’ll end up with a slightly stale or sour taste to your coffee (coming from the oversaturated grounds). 

It's really easy to hand wash the AeroPress too. Take the base off, filter it out, and then use warm soapy water and a gentle detergent. It's that simple. Once you’ve washed and dried it up, storing your AeroPress is easy. It would fit in a drawer or cupboard, so is really convenient for small spaces. I probably wouldn’t build a whole coffee station around one, since it’s not exactly designed with centerpiece aesthetics. 

How does it compare?

Before the AeroPress, the Wacaco Picopresso held the top spot in our buying guide for best portable espresso maker. 

The Wacaco is equally portable and neatly designed. If anything, it feels like a slightly more premium model, owing to the sleek, satin finish. 

Both need you to be relatively involved in the process. You generate pressure in the Picopresso with your hand and you have to push the AeroPress yourself. The benefit of the Picopresso is that you won't get any initial dripping. It's a sealed system. However, the Picopresso will only make espresso. In theory, you could make Americano and cold brew coffees too, but you'd need to add more water to your coffee outside of the Picopresso system.

The AeroPress is well-suited to beginners because the scoop and numbers on the side help you to measure, if not a little loosely. I really liked this casual, accessible approach. What I liked about the AeroPress even more is the price tag. You could buy two and a bit AeroPresses before you could break even with a Picopresso. If you're money-conscious, it's a no-brainer.

Should you buy it?

If you need tasty coffee on the go, you won’t do better than this. The AeroPress well and truly lives up to its reputation. It makes a delicious espresso, unbeatable Americano, and decent cold brew. Once you've learned how AeroPresses work, you won't want to go back. For $50, you won't find a better coffee maker.

How we test

At Homes & Gardens, we have a rigorous testing process for all of our coffee makers. This enables us to score coffee makers both individually and against other models on the market.

We start with our research. As H&G’s coffee expert, I’m always on the lookout for the latest and greatest coffee makers on the market. Once I’ve found one that I think you, our readers, will like, I call it into our test kitchen. 

Once I have the coffee maker in my hands, I’ll get testing. The first thing I make with any espresso machine is an espresso. This is a way of testing how good a coffee maker is at the basics. A good espresso should be between 1.25-2 oz. It should be 190-205 degrees and full of flavor. A big giveaway is the crema on top: that should be thick with a hazelnut hue. 

The AeroPress couldn’t do any more than make an espresso, so I made a load of these to ensure that it was consistent. Then I made notes on the clean-up process as well as how I would recommend storing the AeroPress.

I triple-checked that I had notes for everything: the clean-up, the aesthetics, and what this is like to use, before taking a look at all of our other coffee makers to see how this compares. I also looked at online reviews to see what other experts thought, so that I could bring you a holistic sense of what this is like to use. 

If you’re interested and want to find out more, you can read all about the process in our how we test coffee makers page. 

The 'slab backsplash' has revealed itself among 2024's most significant kitchen trends, and despite it being a new phenomenon, it already comes with celebrity approval.

Jennifer Aniston is the latest figure (alongside NBA's Stephen and Ayesha Curry) who we've seen experiment with the slab backsplash in her Los Angeles kitchen. However, in a surprise to no one, Jennifer Aniston's monolithic kitchen backsplash existed long before it was a certified kitchen trend.

The term 'slab backsplash' refers to a single, continuous piece of material that covers the entirety of a kitchen wall. In Aniston's case, she has opted for a large black slab that juxtaposes her natural wooden cabinets – but there's more to this feature than its aesthetics.

'A slab backsplash is a real showstopper in a kitchen. With a classic countertop, the stone's design is really only seen from above. By showcasing it on the wall, centered in a chimney, or running up to the underside of wall cabinets, you allow the beautiful design to shine,' comments Jack Winfield, a sales designer at Tom Howley.

'Aside from aesthetic beauty, one of the advantages of a slab backsplash is practicality. A single piece of material with minimal joints is much easier to clean than a traditional tiled backsplash. If maintained well, there should be minimal upkeep compared to alternatives. Grout can easily become dirty and start to look tired very quickly.'

Like every kitchen, Aniston's space is prone to bumps and spillages that come with everyday life. However, a slab backsplash keeps this disruption to a minimum.

'In a busy household, functionality is key, and a slab with a beautiful design may help mask some of the everyday spillages,' Winfield says. 'Another popular option is mirrored backsplash – but be prepared for this to show up most splashes and spills.'

Winfield is not exclusive in his observation of this design trend. Jonathan Stanley, VP of marketing at Caesarstone, similarly encourages us to follow Aniston's lead and opt for a slab backsplash – but adds we can take this one step further by matching it to our countertops.

'Consider opting for a slab backsplash to match your countertops, creating a seamless flow that pleases the eye but is also incredibly practical. This is a rising trend we've noticed lately,' he says.

'A slab backsplash creates the stunning visual of a single surface that continues from your countertop up onto the wall. Heat and stain-resistant, a quartz or porcelain backsplash makes clean-up easy after your hob-cooked family dinner has splashed behind the hob.'

Shop Jennifer Aniston's kitchen

Backsplash aside, we can tap into Aniston's kitchen with these buys we spotted atop her countertops.

Knowing how to make a latte at home can make you a lot of friends and make you the host of many coffee mornings. Also known as, caffè lattes, these simple drinks are universally beloved for enhancing fresh espresso flavors with sweet, silky, frothy milk.

There are a range of ways you can prep yours: iced, hot, made in an expert's espresso machine, or with one of the best Nespresso machines on the market. Whichever takes your fancy, it helps to understand the basics, so you can brew the perfect one. 

You might wonder what the difference between a latte, cappuccino, and a flat white even is. I used to get asked this all of the time when I was a barista. The short answer is, that a latte is weaker than a cappuccino, bigger than a flat white, with about one centimeter of foam sitting on top.

You'll need to know a few things before making a latte. Most importantly, you'll want to have mastered how to make an espresso and how to steam milk. Once you've nailed these basic skills, you'll be ready to tackle making lattes, flat whites, and cappuccinos. Next stop: latte art.

How to make a latte with an espresso machine

We've gone deep into the details of how to make an espresso and how to steam milk, so I won't repeat them here. Instead, the experts and I will talk you through what specifically makes a latte a latte and how to achieve that with an espresso machine.

Lattes are milk-forward coffee drinks. You'll have seen them in cans and cartons as well as on the menu at your local coffee shop. Steve Spring, coffee expert, says 'the typical ratio for a latte is about 1/3 espresso to 2/3 heated milk, with a small layer –about 1cm – of milk foam. It's typically favored by those who enjoy the rich flavor of coffee, but prefer it tempered with the smoothness and sweetness of milk'.  

When making your latte, the espresso must be of the highest quality. You'll get the best flavors from a dark roast ground finely. If you can grind your own coffee, that's the best way to drink it. However, the most important part is your espresso machine. Whether it's an automatic or a manual espresso maker, you don't want to skimp. You need these high-quality machines to extract as much of your coffee's essential oils as possible. If you don't already own an espresso machine, I've included some personal recommendations below. 

When you pull a shot with one of these, you want to see a puffy crema with a hazelnut hue. This indicates that you've got all the delicious oils out of your coffee beans. It's equally important that your milk is heated to between 150-155 degrees Fahrenheit and textured to create microfoam so that it's silky (the texture of wet paint). Steve Spring, a coffee expert, says 'the milk should be steaming and frothy, but not scalding. Steaming to this standard requires some practice. Aerating the milk too much can make the foam too thick and dry, more suitable for a cappuccino than a latte'.

Whether you're using a steam wand or handheld tools, the best milks to use are whole milk, or barista-specific non-dairy options (I recommend oat). We've covered how to steam milk in detail across a range of appliances.

How to make a latte with a Nespresso machine or Keurig

It's easy to make a latte with a Nespresso, Keurig, or, in fact, any of the best single-serve coffee makers on the market. You'll need to use an espresso pod (or the equivalent espresso setting) to brew 1-2 oz of really intense, strong coffee. Next, you'll need to use whichever milk frothing attachment you have. Some single-serve machines have automatic steam wands, while others sell their milk frother separately (such as Nespresso's Aeroccino, available at Walmart). 

Either select the latte setting or the icon that demonstrates a single layer of frothy milk. The double layer is for cappuccinos. Brew your espresso shot, then steam your milk, and pour that on top of your espresso straight away. Jecca Chantilly (also known as Jessica Chan), a former barista, says that 'to ensure you get the foam at the top of your latte, pour the milk into the cup rapidly, then move the pitcher on a circular motion. Once most of the milk has been poured, slowly shake the pitcher to create some latte art and put the reserved foam on top.'

The reason Jessica suggests steaming your milk and then pouring it without pausing is that the milk and foam separate quickly. If you let it sit on the side and then pour, you'll get your foam in one, big lump, rather than integrated into the rest of your coffee. 

Tips, tricks, and troubleshooting

As you might expect, baristas have lots of tips and tricks for perfecting how you make your lattes. Kayla Stavridis, former Starbucks barista, says that the most important place to start is with good equipment. She believes that 'a quality espresso machine and grinder can make a significant difference to the taste and quality of your latte'. A good grinder will give you fine, consistently ground coffee, helping you to extract the maximum amount of flavor from your coffee beans. Then, a good machine will be able to reach the perfect brewing temperatures and create concise pressure for perfect espressos and milk steaming.

Kayla also said that it's important to practice and experiment with your lattes. She recommends trying out syrups, spices, and alternative milks. She also says to 'practice pouring from a low height first as well as sticking to the 1:3 ratio of espresso to milk'. This will ensure you get the perfect latte flavor balance and texture.

As always, it's important not to heat your milk beyond 155°F, because it will taste burnt and will not complement the flavors of your espresso at all. If you're struggling to find the espresso flavors your local barista normally achieves, it's worth looking at your beans. If you buy cheap coffee beans, you won't be able to enjoy full, gourmet flavors either.

FAQs

Can I make a latte with regular coffee?

You can make a latte with regular coffee but will need to make some adjustments to your brewing style. Whether you drink French press or pour-over, you'll need to brew an incredibly intense version of your normal coffee. Use a 1 to 15 coffee-to-water ratio, or simply adjust your normal measurements, so that your coffee is intense. 

Then, follow our guidance on how to steam milk (using a steam wand or milk frother) and make your latte following the 1:1:1 ratio for espresso, milk, and steamed milk.

What is the ratio of coffee to milk in a latte?

There's no hard and fast rule for what makes the perfect latte, but most baristas follow a general 2:1 coffee to steamed milk rule. The way that latte milk is made should result in the overall ratio of your latte looking 1:1:1 for espresso, hot milk, and foam. When your drink settles, there should be about one finger's width of foamed milk on top of the latte. 

What's the difference between a latte and a caffè latte?

There's not any difference of note. A caffè latte typically has more steamed milk than a latte, but the variance between how different baristas make different drinks means that you'll get a very similar coffee. If there's both a caffè latte and a latte on a menu, expect the caffè latte to be weaker and more milky. However, if you can just see one of the names, it's because the barista treats them as the same drink.

Redesigning a kitchen is one of the most important projects you will undertake in your home, yet creating the desired look while making it practical is a delicate balance. People can spend years fantasizing about a new kitchen, imagining what it will look like and how it will be laid out, but your chosen kitchen cabinet ideas will often make the biggest impact on the overall finish.

Unpainted kitchen cabinets have fallen out of favor in recent years, yet they can bring warmth and character to a space that may otherwise feel cold and clinical. However, the kitchen cabinet trend is having a much-anticipated renaissance thanks to American actress Jennifer Aniston and a host of other celebrated interior designers and stars. 

Wood kitchen ideas, similar to Jennifer Aniston's, are nothing new – they have been commonplace in many kitchens up and down the country for years because of their timeless appeal, not to mention the fact oak is a durable material that gets better with age. But if you think that oak cabinet kitchen ideas will feel too traditional in a contemporary home, think again. The natural beauty and warmth of wood, combined with its strength and resilience, make it ideal for all kinds of cabinetry.

In her mid-century modern kitchen, Jennifer Aniston has opted for a sleek, handleless design that embraces the invisible kitchen trend. Handle-free cabinets are an integral part of this modern aesthetic. Recessed or push-touch opening mechanisms allow cabinets to blend into the background – to give your kitchen a minimal, unfussy look. 

‘Handleless kitchen design provides a unique opportunity to create simple furniture language without the competing complexities of additional materiality that handles present,’ says Alex Beaugeard, creative director at Lanserring. Lean towards unpainted wood finishes helping limit the visibility of fingerprints on cabinetry. 

There are some instances when you should avoid unpainted cabinetry in your kitchen. If you already have a lot of wood in the room, avoid unpainted timber cabinets, or it could feel overbearing. Instead, opt for painted cabinets in a muted shade with oak countertops and shelving, or perhaps a timber central island, to tie the room together. 

Shop Jennifer Aniston's kitchen edit

A few months ago, I had a sneaky peek behind the curtain at Smeg and saw this product in the pipeline. It has taken all my willpower not to write about it; adding vacuum technology to a blender is such a good idea. The main issue with making your own smoothies and dips is that they expire pretty fast. Vacuum sealing means no more brown smoothies and grey guacamole. 

This is Smeg’s most technologically advanced blender by a long way. In fact, it's a rival to the best blenders on the market. It’s a marvel to look at, a joy to use, and it boasts some impressive performances across smoothies, dips, and ice.

As you can imagine, I’ve been itching to review this for months, so as soon as I could get one into the kitchen, I started blending. In spite of the hefty price tag, I love it. It’s perfect for busy, modern kitchens, but that doesn’t mean it’s perfect for you. Here’s everything you need to know.

Specifications

Unboxing

It was great to see a real effort on the sustainability front from Smeg. This comes in a big cardboard box and cardboard packaging. There are some plastic sleeves to keep parts scratch-free, but this is minimal and could be taken to soft plastic recycling. 

On the countertop, this is simply stunning. As soon as the brushed stainless steel base came out the box, I was taken back to Smeg’s exclusive unveiling of their blender. It looks like a really premium product, but they haven’t made it overwhelming either. The buttons all have simple icons and the big LCD dial on the front is extremely self explanatory: it will countdown or time your blends, as well as navigate through different blending speeds. 

Smeg provides some cleaning tools, the vacuum sealant, and a thick, but not heavy 51 oz glass pitcher. They’ve put quantity measurements on both sides of the pitcher, so that you can slot the jug on to suit both right and left handed users, which is a feature not to be underestimated.

Who would it suit?

The sheer size and capacity of the Smeg blender tailors it to large homes specifically. It’s beautiful, but also extremely big, so you need deep countertops or cupboards if you want to keep the Smeg without resenting its space consumption. 

Unlike most big blenders, this could still appeal to single-users, especially those who batch blend. The useful vacuum seal will slow how quickly your smooth oxidizes, so you can make huge quantities and store them in the refrigerator and they'll stay fresher for longer. 

What is it like to use?

There’s a lot to love about the Smeg, most specifically the way that the design blends smart, sleek finishes with simple controls. The icons meant that I only needed to a cursory glance over the instruction manual, more to confirm that, yes, the ice cube icons were ice cubes, and, yes, the fruit icon is for smoothies. 

I gave the pitcher a rinse and pushed it onto the rubber base. The first time I pushed the pitcher into the base and the lid onto the pitcher, I found the rubber gave back some resistance. Over the course of our tests, it became a lot smoother and easier to do, but if you’re not very strong, get ready to use a bit of muscle the first time you use the Smeg. 

There are plenty of neat features which it would be easy to overlook. For example, the stopper which should sit in the feeding chute hole on the lid can also be used to measure syrups and other liquids which you might add to your smoothies. 

Test 1: smoothies

What’s a blender without smoothies? It’s the first test we put every blending appliance through. I placed frozen berries, banana, spinach, and almond milk into the pitcher. There’s a special smoothie function which you can select, a time will appear on the main dial, and then simply pushing it in will start the blender. It’s quite noisy, making on average 82 dBA of noise. You can hear the automated function running through different blending speeds and strength in an attempt to blend the ‘smooth’ into ‘smoothie’.

Towards the end of the blending, the power really went to full force and I was worried something was jammed. I lifted the stopper on lid off and added more almond milk, which the blender quickly incorporated into the drink. I was curious to see whether it had been jammed, so ran a smoothie bowl (with the same, original amount of almond milk) and heard that same, high speed blending at the end. It turns out, this is all part of the blending pre-sets, so there’s no need to worry. The results of both my smoothie and smoothie bowl were flawless: there were no seeds from the berries, no traces of spinach, and no ice crystals. I don’t like to say that things are ‘the best ever’ because it gives no scope for other blenders to come in and do a better job, but this is the best smoothie, texture wise, I’ve ever made.

I added some Free Soul protein powder to my smoothie mix and sent it through the blender again, testing how well it would handle potential lumps of protein powder. The Smeg whizzed through them, leaving no grains, pockets, or bubbles. 

Test 2: dips

After the success of the smoothie, I was hopeful that the hummus would be smooth too. I placed a can of chickpeas, tablespoon of tahini, juice of half a lemon, salt, and cumin into the blender. I used the manual mode to set this running and discovered that if you don’t use one of Smeg’s presets, rather than counting down for you, the LCD screen will start timing how long the blender has been running. The hummus only needed twenty seconds before it was perfectly smooth. I set up a bowl with some chips and crudités and almost before I could taste test, the rest of my team were demolishing the bowl. It scored top marks for texture, another speedy success from Smeg.

I have high countertops, and I’m quite small, so I had to judge the texture from the side of the blender. You can see in the picture that there were a few chunkier pieces of hummus up the sides of the pitcher, so I had to assume that it was smooth and lifted the lid off. The hummus was perfect, but I ran a spatula around the size to incorporate those larger chunks into the hummus and gave the blender another five seconds to run though.

I also tested making guacamole in a similar way to the hummus, but I was keen to see what the Smeg would make of onion and tomato. Plus, some blenders work avocado into lumps, rather than a smooth dip. However, as you might have guessed, this expertly whizzed my onion into nothing, making a delicious guacamole dip. The Smeg has no business being this incredible at both dips and smoothies. It's remarkable.

Test 3: Crushed ice

Unlike others I've tested, this blender has a special ice function, so I was, again, hopeful that I would get some success. All of our tests are on standard bullet ice cubes, so this was the first one that I carried out. It only took fifty seconds (and a 85 dBA of noise) to make a good batch of crushed ice. 

I was curious to test the limits of the Smeg, so brought out some larger ice cubes (the kind you would use for whiskey). The blender struggled with these, I mean, it’s a bit unfair that I even tested them. Plus, you can see in the image above that it worked them into much smaller ice cube shapes and, if I could have stood to listen to the Smeg running for a few more minutes, it would have easily worked through them. My concern was that it would work the already crushed ice into water. Anyway, I don’t think many blenders could handle such huge ice cubes, but it’s nevertheless worth knowing. 

Test 4: special features

The vacuum pump is one of this blender's most intriguing features. It has the potential to be incredibly innovative or a gimmick, so I was keep to give this a good test. 

To use the vacuum pump, you need four AA batteries which can be inserted in the pump. Mine came with batteries already inside, but this is no guarantee. I was apprehensive about both the complexity and noise that a vacuum pump might induce, but it was really easy to use and actually didn't get any louder than 80 dBA.

The vacuum pump works before blending, so I had to put my food into the blending pitcher and then place the pump on the lid. Activating the pump was really easy: I pressed a button, the LED lights lit up, and the pump got to work. The pump stopped when it had reached pressure and could then be removed. After this was finished, I used the blender as normal and removed the pressure of the jug.

I had a smoothie bowl from the jug as soon as it had finished blending and it was delicious. I kept the rest of my smoothie in a jug, in the refrigerator for a few days. The vacuum pump didn't stop it from discoloring, but I would say that my purple-colored smoothie stayed brighter for a couple of days longer, before slowing graying, as you might expect. I was happy to drink my way through the pitcher all week, so I think the vacuum did a good job of keeping my drink fresh. It wasn't as dramatic as I was expecting, nor did my smoothies taste like they had been 'enhanced' in any way. However, I suspect this is the kind of feature which you notice when it isn't working.

Cleaning, storage, and maintenance

I'd blended a lot of different food colors and textures in the Smeg, so I didn't expect an easy clean-up. You can imagine my pleasant surprise when all this needed was a quick run through on the cleaning function before it was sparkling. The matte, stainless steel finish on the base was really low maintenance. Even though I know my hands were covered in smoothie mix and hummus and the base was definitely splattered, it didn't look like it.

Whilst I think this is an attractive blender, I should tell you that it's also really big. The Smeg demanded a lot of countertop space, plus it's quite tall, so I wouldn't like to try and tuck it into a cupboard. The best thing you could do is embrace the size and style this as a smoothie station on your countertop.

How does it rate online?

We're some of the first people to review this, so there actually isn't any customer or expert feedback online yet. I'll update you with the people's opinion when it's more widely available.

When I attended the launch for the Smeg, there was a lot of excitement around both the aesthetics (which break away from Smeg's retro aesthetic) and the vacuum sealant, which could change the game if you like to batch blend. This was the most intriguing part of the Smeg blender. Back when we saw the preview, this is the feature that all the other experts were skeptical about, but I can attest to the fact that it's genuinely good, not just a gimmick.

How does it compare?

I took a picture of the Smeg next to my Ninja Foodi Heat-iQ Blender, which is less than half the price of the Smeg. You can see that their dimensions are relatively similar, but the Smeg is leagues ahead in terms of aesthetics. The simple design of the Smeg looks so much sleeker and smarter than Ninja's very functional-looking blender.

On smoothies, dips, and ice, I would say that the two blenders are head-to-head. They both offer pre-sets, so that all you have to do is add your ingredients and you're good to go. Their results were faultless across all of our tests too. However, even though the Ninja is cheaper, it has more pre-sets, which cover ice cream, soups, jellies, and dips. The Ninja also has capacity to heat up your blends, making soups, sauces, and sautéed vegetables. 

In some aspects makes the Smeg seem a little basic, especially for the price, but the Smeg has a different offering. The simple, minimalist controls are stress-free. They're not quite as overhwelming as Ninja's array, plus, the Smeg has one final trick up its sleeve. It has a vacuum seal. This means that you can take the oxygen out of your smoothies and dips, keeping them fresher, for longer. Plus, the Smeg can be fully submerged in water to wash (the Ninja is much more fiddly) and the Smeg works for both right and left-handed users (the Ninja is designed for right-handed users only). 

The Smeg is packed with some useful features, but whether these warrant the hefty price tag is a decision you can make for yourself. Other blenders which boast Smeg's smart vacuum sealing technology are either commercial (and so a lot more expensive), such as the Kuvings CB1000, or Oster's surprisingly inexpensive BLSTAB-CB0-000. Neither of these have the same aesthetic appeal as the Smeg, so they're not quite as kitchen-friendly. If you'd make use of the vacuum feature, I think the Smeg is the one I'd settle on.

Should I buy it?

If you care deeply about aesthetics and want to be able to batch-blend, the Smeg is an excellent investment. Sure, it comes with a significant price tag, but if you'll make use of their innovative settings and you want to enjoy their simple design, you're in extremely safe hands with this brand.

Personally, I love the heating function on my Ninja. I'd struggle to give it up, especially for a machine which is over double the price, but the Smeg is a tempting model nonetheless.

How we test

At Homes & Gardens, we make sure that all of our blenders work hard to earn any praise that they get. It's not something that we hand out lightly. We have a team of experts who are always researching and reading-up on the latest, most innovative blenders on the market. As soon as we spot one which we think you might like, we call it in to our test kitchen. Once there, we have a series of standard tests that we put it through. The first test is making a smoothie with frozen fruit, spinach, and protein powder. This will show us how well the blades can handle seeds, tough greens, and how well it can incorporate powders without creating any lumps.

The next test is making dips. Our standard test is hummus, but, if possible, we will test guacamole too.This can give us a good indicator of how the blender handles drier ingredients, such as chickpeas, which also have tough skins or onions, which are typically hard to make into a smooth paste.

The final test we put every blender through is our crushed ice test. Whether you're making ice cones or frozen cocktails, you want your blender to crush up ice into consistent, small crystals. If it can stay relatively quiet whilst doing so, well, that's a big bonus. 

When a machine has some special features, we always test them. In the case of the Smeg, it was the vacuum pump, which was designed to improve the life of each blend. However, this could range from anything to a heating function, portable bottles, or a different texture functions. You name it, we've tested it.

Our experts will also make notes on all the external factors, such as cleaning, storage, maintenance, and unboxing. These will all impact your perception of a blender, so we think it's important that you know every detail possible about them. That way, if you choose to invest in one of these, you're not in for any nasty surprises.

If you'd like to know more about, you can visit our dedicated page for how we test blenders.

I see the Our Place Always Pan 2.0 everywhere, from subway ads to social media. It gets glowing reviews from users in the first flush of frying but I wanted to see whether the hype held up after months of use. That's why I tested my friend's old Always Pan 2.0 that she picked up last April − and I wasn't particularly impressed.

Molly has used her Always Pan 2.0 a few times a week for all sorts of cooking tasks, from searing to steaming. It has picked up a few stains and smudges over time, but that's par for the course with frying pans, and it shouldn't impact performance.

Here at Homes & Gardens we've reviewed some of the world's best non-toxic cookware. I've cooked with everything from Le Creuset pans to cast iron skillets, and I know what I'm looking for in a reliable frying pan. The Always Pan 2.0 checks many of the boxes – it is lightweight, easy to handle, and made without toxins. But it isn't an especially even cooker (food cooked thoroughly in the center of the pan but took a while to warm around the outside) and oil pools around the edges (no shimmering layer of oil to cook on). But, the real issue is the deterioration of the non-stick coating.

The Always Pan 2.0 Specifications

Unboxing the Always Pan 2.0

Normally, when I test cookware, I like to document the unboxing process to give you the fullest possible picture of what it might be like to use this product. Since this particular Always Pan 2.0 has been knocking around in my friend Molly's kitchen cabinets for over a year, I don't have pictures of the original packaging.

I asked Molly, who happens to be a tester for our sister site, Ideal Home, to tell me about the unboxing process. She remembers that the Always Pan 2.0 was packaged in predominantly sustainable materials: lots of egg-crate cushioning and cardboard that she could throw straight into the recycling. Molly has a lot of green in her kitchen, which is why she bought the pan in sage, but she could have chosen any number of cool neutrals, from steam to blue salt. The Always Pan 2.0 also comes in bolder hues, such as turmeric and azul, which would pop against plain white walls.

Molly bought the Always Pan 2.0 in the standard size, which measures 10.5 inches across and three inches deep. There's more than enough space to sear a steak and baste it, too, without worrying that jus will splash over the sides. If you're feeding a whole family and you want to prepare multiple portions in the same pot, you should opt for the larger pan. It's two inches wider than the standard pan, and $30 more expensive. Conversely, if you're cooking in a smaller kitchen, and you're looking to save a little money, you should consider the Mini skillet, which is just over eight inches wide. You might find it easier to slide the small pan into the oven for crisping.

Each edition of the Always Pan 2.0 is coated in Thermakind, a ceramic non-stick coating that's free from toxic materials, such as PFAs, lead, and cadmium. Our Place recommends that you wash your Always Pan 2.0 by hand, to protect the ceramic. Despite taking great care of her pan, Molly has noticed that the quality of the non-stick coating has deteriorated over time. In my tests, I found it hard to flip pancakes and scramble eggs without them sticking to the base of the pan.

Cooking performance

Test 1: Fried egg

Our Place advertises their Always Pan 2.0 as 'an all-in-one cooker that can braise, bake, broil, and boil (and that's just the B's)'. Since I was assessing this product as a frying pan, rather than a multi-cooker, I focused on the 'fry' and 'sear' functions. I decided to make a simple meal of pancakes, eggs, and bacon. I wanted to see how the pan handled wet and dry ingredients, as well as diverse food groups. Plus, it might look similar to the sort of breakfast you'd whip up on a weekend.

First, I set the pan on the hob and let it come up to temperature. Within 30 seconds or so, I could feel heat rising, so I cracked my egg and dropped it into the pan. This first egg slid towards the side of the pan, where it sat and congealed for a minute or two. Some of the egg white started to solidify – the section closest to the center − but the rest wouldn't cook, even when I turned up the heat. This was my first sign that the Always Pan 2.0 is a poor conductor: the heat in the center of the pan couldn't spread to the sides. After a frustrating five minutes, I threw out the first egg and started again.

Take two. I cracked my second egg into the Always Pan 2.0 and tilted the handle to settle the egg into the center. Soon, it was sizzling away. It took almost five minutes for the egg white to solidify and begin to crisp around the edges.

At last, it was time for the taste test. The egg white was cooked all the way through, with the beginnings of a golden crisp on the bottom. On the whole, I was satisfied with the results of this first test, though it had taken quite some time to get there.

Test 2: Bacon

I'm quite particular about my bacon. I like it crisp, but not too crunchy, with juicy meat and well-rendered fat. While you could cook bacon in one of the best air fryers, I often find that they can dry out the meat. When I cook bacon in a pan, I want it to come out just the right side of crisp versus tender.

I laid my strips of bacon across the Always Pan 2.0. These were long, thin rashers, and I wondered whether the ends of the bacon would cook completely. I contemplated moving the bacon around the pan, so that every inch had its time in the center, but decided that wouldn't be a fair test.

As a product tester, I know I made the right call. As a bacon lover, I wish I'd intervened. When I first flipped the rashers, I found that the meat and fat at one end were beginning to brown, but the other end was still insipid. Once again, the heat had failed to spread throughout the pan. This was probably because I was testing an older model, which has fried its fair share of bacon, but it raises concerns about the longevity of the Always Pan 2.0.

Test 3: Pancakes

Following the disappointments of the egg and bacon tests, I wasn't feeling too optimistic about the pancakes. Still, I wanted to see how the Always Pan 2.0 handled such delicate textures and whether the non-stick coating were really up to scratch.

To start, I poured my pancake batter into the pan. As the batter spread from the center of the pan towards the sides, I noticed that it was cooking all the way through. Perhaps the limited conduction power of the Always Pan 2.0 comes into its own with thin batters.

After 90 seconds or so, it was time to flip. The first time I shook the Always Pan 2.0, the pancake wouldn't budge. It took a few tries for the non-stick coating to kick into gear, but I managed to dislodge the mixture in the end. As it flipped, I could see that the bottom of the pancake was leopard-spotted, with big brown patches on a beige base. It looked more like a piece of naan than a traditional crêpe.

I decided to plate my pancakes alongside my bacon and eggs for a breakfast feast. After a long morning carrying cast-iron cookware, I was surprised by the lightness of the Always Pan 2.0. Weighing just three pounds, I found it quick and easy to carry from the hob to the kitchen counter. I plated my pancakes while they were still warm and took a big bite. They were sweet and crisp, if a little underdone in the middle.

Perhaps I had the heat too high, but this brings me onto my final criticism of the Always Pan 2.0 - it is very sensitive to heat and I found this hard to control.

Cleaning & maintenance

It's important to note that the neither the base nor the lid of the Always Pan 2.0 is dishwasher-safe. Now, that's not unusual for a non-stick pan, but a handful of customers have complained that the pan picks up stains and smudges which don't wash off easily. You'll have to stand over your sink for a minute to give your pan a good scrub. With that said, the steamer basket and the beechwood spatula are easy to clean in a bowl of warm, soapy water.

How does the Always Pan 2.0 rate online?

The Always Pan 2.0 boasts thousands of five-star ratings on the Our Place site, praising its versatility and ease of use. There are a smattering of more mixed reviews, which note the deterioration of the non-stick coating over time and the incompatibility with higher heats. I suspect that these ratings come from people like me and Molly, who have been using their Always Pans 2.0 for extended periods of time. A few customers have complained about the lack of heat-safe handles, which makes it that much harder to transfer the pan from stove to counter.

How does the Always Pan 2.0 compare to other pots and pans?

Since the Always Pan 2.0 launched, the brand has released a new version that is made with a titanium interior, aluminum core, and stainless steel exterior. Our kitchen appliances editor (and trained chef), Lydia Hayman, tested and reviewed the Our Place Titanium Always Pan Pro and was very impressed.

Lydia says, 'The Titanium Pro pan is much better than the original Always Pan, in my opinion. It is durable and a delight to cook with. I tested this pan alongside a brand-new Always Pan that the brand sent me to trial out for my non-toxic cookware guide, so it didn't have the deteriotation issues that Emilia has written about in this review. Still, I infinitely preferred the Titanium version.'

She continues, 'Although the Titanium Pro is heavier, more expensive and it requires some TLC (occasional seasoning), I have found it to be reliable and well-made. Even after 7 months of use, it has held up brilliantly. I think it's worth the extra spend if you want a durable frying pan that has non-stick capabilities. It is actually dishwasher-safe, too, and I haven't noticed any significant deterioration in its performance, even after countless cycles in my washer.'

If Our Place's offerings still don't convince you, we recommend shooting straight for the stars and choosing the best cookware brand on the market. 'Le Creuset's enameled pans are one of my best buys,' says Lydia. 'I continue to use my Titanium Always Pan for many recipes (specifically chillis and pastas) but Le Creuset cast iron is my trusted, timeless kitchen companion I always end up reaching for. If you want simplicity, ease of use and longevity, I recommend Le Creuset to everyone.'

Should you buy the Always Pan 2.0?

The Always Pan 2.0 retails for $125 in the standard size. The Mini model goes for $100, while the larger skillet comes in at $150. I would hesitate to spend that kind of money on this pan. While it looks great and weighs nothing, these aesthetic considerations can't compensate for imperfect cooking and longevity issues.

If you're looking for a competent kitchen companion that still has non-stick effect and you want it to stand the test of time, you should consider a higher-quality skillet, like the Titanium Always Pan Pro.

How we test frying pans

A great frying pan has to tick all the boxes: versatility, manageable weight, brilliant cooking performance, and, crucially, ease of cleaning.

We use every pan we write about for at least a month to see how it fares over time. Many pans are great out of the box, but start to stick, discolor and destroy ingredients after prolonged use. There's nothing worse than this, especially when you've forked out your hard-earned money and need to buy a replacement. Often, we're allowed to keep the pots and pans we test, which gives us the chance to monitor performance over time and update our reviews as required.

When we're testing, we're looking for a pan that can handle everything: from delicately frying an egg to searing a steak with a perfect crust. It should feel balanced in your hand – not so heavy it’s hard to lift, but substantial enough to retain heat evenly for consistent cooking.

We like to test notoriously sticky or delicate recipes, including: tofu, sticky cheese like halloumi or paneer, crepes, and fried eggs. We assess how these cook in the pan and the mess they leave afterwards – because no one wants to scrub endlessly after dinner.

If you're interested, you can find out more about how we test on the Homes & Gardens site.

Toasters are very rarely considered to be attractive, so when I spotted Smeg’s retro range, you can only imagine my delight. We've reviewed their other two and four-slice models, both available in a range of colors and finishes, so there’s a lot to choose between.

Whilst style is important, especially with an appliance you’ll keep on show, it’s equally imperative that a toaster can do a good job of, well, toasting. To make sure that the Smeg delivers on form and function, I took the four-slice model and put it to the test.

I used the Smeg to toast everything from long slices of artisanal sourdough to bagels, fruit bread, gluten-free bread, and the obligatory pop tarts. It's definitely among the best toasters, but there are a few things you should know before diving into a purchase. 

Specifications

Unboxing

I couldn’t wait to see what this would look like on my countertop. As soon as it arrived at my door, I untucked the Smeg toaster from its (mostly recyclable) packaging and set it up. The four-slot toaster demands quite some space on the countertop, but it looks absolutely beautiful. I chose the cream colorway because it's such a classic hue and I'm glad I did. It's gorgeous.

There’s very little to do in the way of ‘prep work’. Once all the plastic wrap is off, I would recommend putting the toaster down so that it has one run-through without food in and then it will be ready to use.

Who would it suit?

The four slice toaster is designed with larger homes and families in mind. Not only does it have a big footprint, it also has a big capacity. If you need to make everyone some toast at once, the Smeg can handle it. However, if you want to just do one piece, this will support it anyway. It’s pretty perfect.

Aesthetically, Smeg’s design suits a warmer-style kitchen. It’s colorful and curved, rather than made up of sharp, clean lines. I think it’s generally very versatile and easy on the eye. I tested this over a longer period and received lots of compliments. Toasters don’t often get much love in the appliance department, so this was a nice change. 

What was it like to use?

The Smeg toaster is simple. It might be too simple for some, but I like it. The levers and dials are tactile, making every move I made on the Smeg feel definite and confident. There’s a timer dial and then two buttons: defrost and reheat. The lack of a bagel setting might be disappointing for some, but I can assure you that this still does a great job of everything from bagels to fruit bread.

Test 1: White bread

I wanted to do a basic test, to get a good measure of how this would do on some simple toast. I bought some sliced white bread and popped a couple of pieces in the toaster. I lowered them using the neat, chrome handles. The standard amount of time for a slice of bread like this would be two to three minutes, so I tested it out on two, thinking I could increase the time later if I needed to.

Some toasters come with viewing windows and ‘quick look’ functions and, whilst Smeg doesn’t have this, the wide slots make it quite easy to peek inside. When exactly two minutes were up, my toast popped up and it looked good; nicely brown on one side and a little lighter on the other. If you want consistency across both sides, you might find these results frustrating. However, once you’re eating the toast, you can’t tell. I think the difference is purely aesthetic. I also wonder whether Smeg has deliberately done this so that when toasting bagels, crumpets, and pop tarts, you can have one side well done and the other side light, rather than leathery. 

Test 2: Sourdough

Sourdough is notoriously difficult to toast: it doesn't brown easily and artisanal slices are often too long for most toasting slots. Smeg combines their capacity for four slices of toast into two long and wide slots, meaning I could put a really long piece of sourdough into toast with no problem. I've not tested a toaster with that kind of capacity before. 

I gave the sourdough three minutes, but the toast still needed a little more. Adding one minute (which actually only took 56 seconds) to the dial, however, meant that my sourdough was overdone. It was nice and brown at the bottom, but a bit too crisp at the top for me. The toast itself was also really hot. It melted the butter off my knife and had it running across the toast and pooling into the air bubbles on my slice. This resulted in a beautiful piece of toast though. It wasn't too dry or crispy, the inside still had some nice spring to it too.

Test 3: Bagel

Even though there's not a specific bagel setting for the Smeg, it did a really good job of toasting a whole bagel. I placed the slices in with the steamed outsides facing the edges of the toaster. In a minute and 52 seconds, they popped up, evenly browned, nice and warm. Even though they were hot and golden, the exteriors weren't overcooked or made too leathery. The inside was still doughy and delicious. 

I wanted to make sure that I wasn't blinded by Smeg's beauty, so got one of the experts to toast half a bagel in the Smeg and half in Breville's Die Cast toaster (which has a specific bagel setting). I couldn't tell the difference between the two and neither could our other tester. Even though there isn't a bagel button, Smeg is doing an excellent job of toasting bagels.

Test 4: Gluten-free bread

I'm always apprehensive about toasting gluten-free bread because it behaves so differently from standard bread. I bought a pre-sliced, white loaf and popped four slices into the Smeg. At one minute and 49 seconds, all the slices popped up. These are about half the size of a normal slice of bread, but the Smeg has enough lift to make them easy to take out. If you have any awkwardly shaped pieces of bread, you can always place them in the (provided) toastie tongs, which keep all small pieces together. 

All four pieces of gluten-free toast were evenly toasted after under two minutes. The Smeg was a little bit too powerful here and I think they were close to being overdone. However, they were still enjoyable to eat, warm and crunchy on the outside, but still soft and spongy on the inside.

Test 5: Fruit bread

There's no delicate setting for fruit bread, so I was a little apprehensive before toasting this in the Smeg. I placed my slices in for just one minute and when they popped up at 54 seconds, they were perfectly golden. No parts of the toast had caught or burnt and the whole slice had been warmed through. I couldn't fault it.

I even tried frozen fruit bread to see whether the heat could get right through. There's a defrost button on the Smeg, so I pushed that, lowered my fruit bread in, and within a minute and a twenty-two, it popped up, perfectly cooked, again. As long as you err on the side of caution, the Smeg will deliver delicious results, even on more temperamental toasting types.

Test 6: Pop tart

A serious test for any toaster is pop tarts. I was testing a heavily iced 'Cookies 'n' Cream' flavor and was concerned I might lose some icing to the crumb tray and heating elements. I kept the heat light and popped the tarts up after two minutes. They looked good and felt warm, so I cut them in half. Inside, the filling was steaming, oozing out, looking delicious. The outside was crumbly and warm too. It was a real success.

Cleaning, storage, and maintenance

The Smeg is really easy to clean and maintain. The crumb tray pops out and empties all your crumbs neatly into the trash. The shiny exterior didn't get greasy or marked throughout all of our tests. Not even the chrome finishes needed polishing.

As for storage, I think it's a crime to pack this away. It looks beautiful on the countertop. There's even storage management underneath so you don't end up with a long cable on the countertop. However, if you do choose to pack this away, it's quite light. The only thing to consider is that it's long too, so it will demand a considerable amount of cupboard space.

How does it rate online?

As you might expect, this is popular online. People praise the appearance of this toaster more than anything. 'Fancy', 'awesome', 'amazing', and 'stunning' consistently appeared in Amazon reviews. However, people felt that it was more than just a pretty face. Plenty of people said that they were impressed at how well-built it was. I found lots of people praising this as the family toaster which they've had for years. It was also a common wedding registry gift, which is a lovely idea.

People didn't have many complaints about the Smeg, aside from the price. Even though it's well-built, people said that this is expensive for the very basic functions. Lots of people said that they wished it had at least a specialist bagel setting, although I didn't struggle with my bagel results.

How does it compare?

As a four slice toaster, Smeg is by far the most stylish option on the market. The next rival for capacity and quality is the Breville Die Cast Smart Toaster, available at Breville, which is a similar price, but not nearly as attractive. The Breville offers separate settings for each two slots, so you could toast two pieces of fruit bread at the same time as two pieces of sourdough and tailor your settings to suit them. The Breville offers four different toasting settings, which is another two on top of Smeg's fairly basic offering, showing the simplicity of Smeg's design. However, the Breville couldn't fit in the long sourdough pieces and didn't produce toast which was as consistently cooked as the Smeg's. Whilst I liked both, if I had the money in my hand, I would still pick the Smeg.

If you don't mind down-sizing, but keeping your budget high, there's the KitchenAid Two-Slice Pro Line Toaster, available at Walmart. This comes with a similar selection of colorways to the Smeg but will auto-lower and lift your toast. It also has pretty basic functions, but the KitchenAid does specialize in bagels, so if you want a more technical, but still beautiful option, the KitchenAid is worth checking out.

Should you buy it?

I love this toaster. I think Smeg's is the most stunning option on the market. I loved testing it out and having it sit on my countertop. It received by far the most compliments from friends and family, plus, I eat a lot of homemade bread and the slots are much more versatile for people like me. I can see why it isn't budget-friendly, but if you care about your kitchen aesthetics and you're willing to toast cautiously, you won't go wrong with the Smeg.

How we test

At Homes & Gardens, we are dedicated to testing our toasters. That's why we take every product we recommend into a dedicated testing space where our experts can put these appliances through their paces. Our experts use these for at least a week, sometimes more, so that we get a good sense of the long-term features of a toaster. For example, we thought auto-lifting was a bit of a gimmick on our first test day, but actually came to love it by the end of the week. Or, with the Smeg toaster, Laura baked a loaf of walnut bread which was cut into thick chunks. We wouldn't have tested this if we on;y had two hours, but, over the week, we needed to (spoiler alert: the Smeg aced it).

We'll put fruit bread, gluten-free bread, bagels, pop tarts, sourdough, frozen bread, and white bread through the toaster, testing how well it performs on even the trickiest of tasks. We use white bread. It's a staple; gluten-free bread because it can be notoriously temperamental, as can enriched, fruit bread. We'll also look at tougher tasks, such as sourdough, which takes a while to brown and can easily become too tough to bite. Bagels need to be toasted on different levels on different sides, so we make sure to test them too, even if there's no bagel function. Conversely, pop tarts can crumble and burn into sticky messes, so it's crucial to test (and taste) them.

Our experts look at how evenly toast is cooked, both on the outside and through the cross-section. We'll see how well spreads melt on them, as well as how they taste in our mouths. With toast, it's all about texture. 

Whilst all that is happening we time how long each piece of toast takes to achieve the perfect level of golden-brown goodness. That way, you know whether it can fit into your busy morning routine, or whether it's a toaster to bring out on a slow Sunday.

Whilst we are toast-obsessed, our team also makes notes on aspects such as aesthetics, cleaning, storage, and maintenance, so you can envisage how these appliances would fit into your kitchen. A heavy and ugly toaster, even if it makes a delicious bagel, just won't cut it for some.

If you're interested to learn more, you can visit our dedicated page for how we test.

KitchenAid has been praised for decades on account of their capable and beautiful stand mixers. Now, they’ve expanded their offering to coffee makers and kettles, but if you want the best of the best, I suggest you take a look at their Pro Line Toaster. 

Unlike other high-end toasters, this doesn't just look the part. While it looks incredible, it's a simple, straightforward toaster that makes consistently perfect toast. That's before you get into all the more luxurious features, like the auto-lifting and lowering slots. It's a true contender among the best toasters. 

I've tested it for months and actually ended up buying one because I loved it so much. It might not offer exactly what every single home needs, but it sure will please ninety nine percent of us.

Specifications

Who would it suit?

This is a luxury toaster, so best suited to those with big budgets. At around $300, it’s one of the most expensive toasters on the market. While that's overkill for most of us, if you have the money, you what you pay for. It makes great toast, looks beautiful, and the build quality is second-to-none, so it’s good if you want a toaster to last for a lifetime. The features are all useful (especially the bagel and auto-lift). Plus, the different finishes are perfect for those cultivating color-conscious kitchens.

With only two toasting slots and a relatively slow toasting time, this isn’t particularly well suited to large homes and big families. You can opt for the larger Pro KitchenAid Pro Line Four Slice Toaster, available at Amazon, , which reviews just as well, but this takes up more space on the countertop. Whilst the auto lift and lower function feels super premium, I’m also very aware that this is an unnecessary luxury for most people.

Unboxing

The KitchenAid comes in a big box. It’s deceptively big because this is actually a really compact toaster, but KitchenAid has built lots of protective, recyclable packaging around it. There’s also a sandwich press attachment which you can insert into the toaster when you have a hankering for a grilled cheese, and a neat cable manager underneath to keep everything tidy on the countertop.

In true KitchenAid style, this comes in all their Artisan colors: almond cream, empire red, onyx black, frosted pearl, and more. I tested almond cream and it looked awesome. I’ve already tested the KitchenAid Pro Line Electric Kettle, available at Walmart, in almond cream, so pairing the two together on my countertop looked incredible. My only caution would be that this is pretty heavy for a small appliance – I wouldn’t like to be lifting it above my head to put in a cupboard, so I would recommend that you either store this low down or keep it on constant display.

What is it like to use?

The KitchenAid balances versatility and simplicity really well. There’s a timer with an LED countdown, so you can see how long your toast has left. There’s also a bagel button, defrost button, and 'a little longer' button. This way, you and your toaster are always on the same page about what the end goal is.

Test 1: White bread

Sliced white bread is the most elementary test for any toaster. If it can’t do this, it can't do anything. I placed two slices of white bread into the slots and the KitchenAid detected the weight, made a light bell sound, and began to auto-lower my toast down. I almost laughed at how unnecessarily luxurious this feature is.

This was the first run through the KitchenAid had ever had, but I gave it a standard two minute setting. One minute forty seconds later, my toaster made a light bell sound and lifted up two, pale slices of toast-bread (they hadn’t been turned to proper toast yet). I lowered them for another minute, hoping to give the toaster a chance to warm up. 52 seconds later, I heard the chime and saw my toast lift up. It was perfect: the golden color evenly covered both sides of both slices of toast. I was pretty pleased with myself (and the toaster).

Test 2: Sourdough

Sourdough is another great test for any toaster. It needs more heat, doesn’t brown as easily, and can come in a range of shapes and sizes. I bought a big, wide, artisanal loaf for testing and only one of our toasters didn’t require me to cut my slice in half (if you're interested, it was the Smeg Four Slice, available at QVC). It was no surprise that the KitchenAid couldn’t fit it: it’s a compact toaster.

After cutting my slice in half, I put the two chunks in the toaster for three minutes, which isn’t really long enough, but I didn’t want to overdo it. It didn’t come as any surprise that this needed another two minutes (actually one minute forty) before it popped up, looking golden). The toaster hadn’t dried it out and had got the most even toast coverage that I’ve experienced in my toasting tests. It was hot enough to melt the butter into all the air bubbles of my slice, but not too hot for me to take a big bite straight away. It was the perfect texture: crunchy on the outside, but warm and springy on the inside.

Test 3: Bagel

I think that a bagel function is a toaster essential, so I was glad to see this toaster had a bagel mode for me to test out. The top of the toaster has a useful icon to show you which way your bagel needs to sit in the toaster. All you need to do is press the bagel button and the KitchenAid will do the rest.

I put my bagel in for one and a half minutes (although this was only one minute twelve seconds in practice) and when it lifted up, it looked like it had hardly seen the heating elements. I repeated the one and a half minute setting three times (so my bagel probably had just over three minutes in total) before I was happy with the toasting level. As you get used to your toasting settings, you’ll be much happier setting the bagel to four and leaving it for one run through, but for my first toast I was constantly checking on the toasting levels.

On flavors and textures, this was flawless. The outside of my bagel was soft, the cut side had a good crunch and the very centre was soft and doughy. It's perhaps a little pale for some people, but I was able to achieve a slice of toast exactly as I like it. 

Test 4: Gluten-free bread

Gluten-free diets should never mean compromising, even if the bread is a little trickier to toast. I was apprehensive about how well this would turn out, because the KitchenAid had done such a good job of normal white bread, so I wondered whether the generic settings would suit a different bread. 

I placed two small slices into the KitchenAid and was struck by how high they sat. Even small pieces of toast are easy to lift out and in because they’re almost completely out of the toaster when it’s not on. This came in useful when I made my own loaf and the end pieces were imperfectly shaped and quite small to say the least.

After one minute forty in the toaster both slices of gluten-free toast popped up, evenly warmed, golden across both sides, with a good crunch. They hadn’t lost their fluffy middle section either. It was an impressive performance overall.

Test 5: Fruit bread

Enriched doughs are delicious, but temperamental. Fruits are also pretty tricky to toast without burning, so I thought I’d really test the KitchenAid’s skill set by toasting a slice of fruit bread. 

Given that it is such a delicate loaf, I started on the single minute setting. The fruit bread was warm, but needed another minute. In total, the fruit bread only had one and a half minutes in the toaster, because the settings don’t fully equate to timings. That’s on the speedy side for toasters, but it was warmed right through. Both sides were golden and crunchy, but the middle section was light and fluffy still. None of my fruit had burned either. It was still delivering pure perfection.

Test 6: Pop tarts

My final toaster test is the all-important pop tarts. These need to be warmed right through, but still treated with care. I don’t want icing in my toaster slots or jam sticking anywhere.

I put my 'Cookies n Cream' flavor tarts into the toaster. Without any specific pop tart setting, I thought I would give two and a half minutes a test. This was the optimal time (even though it only amounted to two minutes and three seconds). They popped up and I could sense they were done. All my icing was perfect, my filling was gooey, and the biscuits were crumbly. There’s little else to say (and even less pop tart left untouched on my plate).

Cleaning, storage, and maintenance

This is an incredibly low maintenance. I had every sort of butter, jam, conserve and preserve you can think of on hand and I didn’t need to give give this toaster a wipe down once. It didn’t show fingerprints and there were very few crumbs in the crumb tray. I couldn’t help but wonder if the gentle auto lift and lower helps to stop springing crumbs everywhere.

As for storage, this is a relatively heavy toaster, so I wouldn't recommend lifting it into high cupboards or awkward spaces. There's already useful cable storage underneath the toaster and an attractive design that's perfect for keeping out on display. I live in an urban apartment and kept my previous toaster stored away because it was a) unattractive and b) pretty hue. I was happy to keep the KitchenAid on countertops 24/7. It looks good without dominating the space.

How does it rate online?

I was pleased to read that everyone else loved the KitchenAid as much as I did. It was described as a 'status symbol' and 'small grill', which everyone felt warranted the big price tag. As you might expect, everyone commented on the aesthetics of the Artisan as well as the easy controls and consistent toasting capabilities. I particularly enjoyed the pictures of KitchenAid trios on people's countertops: the stand mixer, toaster, and kettle, proudly lined up in social-media worthy set-ups. It's clearly a product to be proud of.

In fact, almost nobody could criticise it. Some people said that they would have liked the controls to be a little fiercer, but I think it's better to be gentle and this still does a good job of toasting. Another feature which was divisive was the alert noise that the toaster makes when it begins and finishes toasting. This is the same noise across all KitchenAid appliances, so I liked the consistency. It's also quite a gentle sound, but isn't to everyone's tastes.

How does it compare?

KitchenAid makes another two-slice toaster, which is much more basic (and a quarter of the price). The functional, stainless steel finish sets the tone for everything you need to know about it. The KitchenAid Manual Lift 2-Slice is hard-working, durable, and reliable. For all of its functionality, the Manual Lift lacks the niceties offered by the Pro Line: I had to wave goodbye to my auto lift and lower function, as well as the beautiful design, and grilled cheese sandwich plates. Performance wise, the Pro Line felt a little more measured and refined, because it didn't really get any fiercer throughout my tests. Most toasters heated up and got quicker and less consistent, including the KitchenAid Manual, but overall both are excellent toasters.

If you don't like the idea of sacrificing aesthetics, but you want a little more versatility, check out Breville's The Toast Select Luxe, available at Amazon. This compact, two slice toaster is available in a range of classic colors. It looks really chic and it's not just a pretty face. This has the most versatile setting range I've seen, with options for rye bread, sourdough, waffles, and pop tarts. You have almost all the same luxuries as the KitchenAid Artisan (but not the auto lower and lift), for a similar price. This is the KitchenAid's toughest competition.

Should you buy it?

I'd recommend this toaster to everyone. I've really committed to the phrase 'put your money where your mouth is', because I ended up buying this after our tests were concluded. I love it and have gotten used to the comforts of the auto-lift and lower. However, I recognise that it's not for everyone: the luxuries are a little unnecessary and it is expensive for its size.

How we test

At Homes & Gardens, we test all of our toasters thoroughly before writing a review. If you're interested in finding out more about how we test and review a toaster, you're in the right place.

Before anything, we research our toasters. Our team of experts is always looking for the latest and greatest models on the market. Once one has caught our eye, we'll read about it before calling one in.

When we have the toaster in our hands, we'll get to work. I tested all of these toasters for at least a week. In the case of the KitchenAid, once I had finished testing it, I bought one and have been using it for months. I love it. Every toaster gets at least one week of usage though, because, that way, we can grasp what they're like to use in the middle of the morning rush as well as on a slow Sunday.

You'll spot that we use a range of different bread types, because we want to see how it can handle a range of textures and flours. We always start with basic white bread, because that's a household staple, as are pop tarts, which we also test. These require a toaster to be gentle with the iced outside, but thorough enough to cut through to the gooey center. We'll also try sourdough, because that can take longer to toast and often comes in odd, artisanal shapes. For the gluten-free eaters, we also look at gluten-free bread, again, because we know it can be a little more sensitive to heat and it's good to know if your toaster can handle it. 

As I said above, we make sure to check how well a toaster can toast bagels. Most have special bagel settings, because these need to be light on one side and stronger on another. If they can't do that, you might end up with a leathery bagel. Our team also wanted to test enriched breads, such as fruit bread, which can burn easily or not toast fully through. It's important to see how well a toaster can handle more complex breads.

For each bread type, we test how long a toaster takes to complete them. When they pop up, we look at how evenly they're toasted and we taste how thoroughly they're toasted throughout the cross section. A bagel is a great example of why this is important: it should be doughy in the middle, crisp on the cut side, and still soft on the outside.

Our experts also think about factors such as cleaning, storage, and maintenance, because they can have a huge impact on how motivated you are to use an appliance. If it's more work than you think its worth, no matter how well a toaster works, you won't use it.

The Aarke Electric Kettle would make a great gift for the tea-lover in your life. A coat of stainless steel and long, lean lines elevate this ordinary appliance to an eye-catching kitchen companion. It doesn't just look good − it works well, too. This electric kettle features a heat-retaining double-wall design for energy efficiency.

Sure, you could find a cheaper kettle online, and one of my biggest criticisms is the price. Let's face it, you could just pour water into a bowl and heat it in the microwave to boil for free. But this kettle offers precision and ease that a microwave, or cheaper electric kettle can't match. Many of us boil water every day to make tea, coffee, instant ramen, and the like. If you're boiling that much water, you might as well invest in an electric kettle – and Aarke's is the best you'll find. 

I'm part of a product testing team here at H&G. Together, we've tried and tested some of the world's best electric kettles. I know my goosenecks from my tea kettles, and I know what I'm looking for in an appliance: a quick, quiet kettle that retains heat and regulates temperature. I tested the Aarke Electric Kettle at its minimum and maximum temperature, as well as its minimum and maximum boiling volume, to give you the fullest possible picture of what it might be like to use this product.  

Aarke Electric Kettle review

Aarke Electric Kettle specifications

Unboxing the Aarke Electric Kettle

The Aarke Electric Kettle came double-wrapped in cardboard boxes, presumably to protect against knocks and bumps in transits. When I opened the box, I was pleased to see egg-crate cushioning and cardboard envelopes in place of polystyrene and single-use plastic. Sustainable packaging makes such a difference, especially when you consider that the kettle and the power base are individually wrapped. I threw the cardboard straight into the recycling bin and carried on unboxing. 

Each Aarke Electric Kettle comes with a microfiber cleaning cloth and a quick start guide, as well as an instruction manual. I wouldn't throw these away, especially if you're new to brewing. Inside the instruction booklet, you'll find detailed diagrams that identify the function and design of each kettle component, hazard warnings and a cleaning guide. 

Measuring a little less than eleven inches tall and eight inches wide, the Aarke Electric Kettle is neat and narrow. It should easily slot beneath low cabinets and fit right into smaller kitchens. Once I'd got the kettle out of the box and onto its power base, I was immediately struck by its stainless steel sheen. It looks so much better than a matte black or bright white body. The stainless steel inevitably picks up finger smudges, but it's nothing that a quick buff with the microfiber cloth can't fix.

As electric kettles go, this one is pretty smart, with adjustable temperature settings and an LED cool-down indicator that prompts you to pour or reheat. The Aarke Electric Kettle features a non-drip spout to minimize spills and stains, as well as a double-wall construction to keep warm air in and cold air out. 

Test 1: Minimum water level, maximum temperature

Normally, when I test kitchen appliances, it's a complex operation. I need access to the best fresh and frozen ingredients, a fully-stocked spice cupboard, and space to cook. To test the Aarke Electric Kettle, all I needed was running water from a faucet, my trusty digital thermometer, and a timer 

I wanted to test the kettle's thermoregulating abilities across little and large volumes of water. Some electric kettles can boil just enough water to brew a perfect cup of tea, while others are better for batch-boiling, and I was keen to see into which category the Aarke Electric Kettle fell. For my first test, I decided to boil its minimum 16.9 fl. oz.of water at 212°F. To make it a little easier on myself, I measured in °C.

I lifted the lid of the Aarke Electric Kettle and filled it up with water to the minimum boiling volume. I slotted the kettle onto its power base and pressed the button at the bottom of the machine. I pressed it once to set the kettle to 212°F: if you keep pressing in short bursts, you'll cycle through the lower temperature options. 

As soon as the lid was down and the button pressed, the Aarke Electric Kettle began to boil. For the first 30 seconds or so, it was completely silent. Just as I started to wonder whether I'd missed a step, the kettle began to make a low rumbling sound. At its peak, the noise reached 74dB, which is about as loud as a vacuum cleaner: noticeable, but you can still hear yourself think. 

The Aarke Electric Kettle boiled 16.9 fl. oz. of water in 100 seconds: the machine beeped to let me know when it was done. If that sort of sound gets on your nerves, you can disable the beeping by long pressing on the power base button, but I didn't find it too irritating. Straight after boiling, the water was a perfect 212°F. By the time I'd got out my digital thermometer, it had dropped a few degrees. That's my fault for leaving the lid open, not the machine's.   

Test 2: Maximum water level, maximum temperature

For my second test, I wanted to boil a larger volume of water: as much as I could fit inside the Aarke Electric Kettle. I was keen to see how long it took to boil and how well that double-wall construction retained heat. 

I let my kettle cool after the first test, in the hopes of getting a more accurate temperature reading. A few minutes later, I filled the Aarke Electric Kettle with 40.5 fl. oz of water, all the way up to the maximum capacity line. Then, just like last time, I slotted the kettle onto its base and set it to boil.

This water took a lot longer to boil. That makes sense: it takes more time, and more energy, to raise the temperature of a larger volume of water. In the end, it took the Aarke Electric Kettle four minutes, or 240 seconds, to boil 40.5 oz. Not the speediest in the world, but still pretty fast for that volume of water. 

The Aarke Electric Kettle worked quickly and quietly to get the water up to temperature. This time, I had my camera and my digital thermometer at the ready, and I was able to document a near-perfect reading. So far, I was seriously impressed.

Test 3: minimum water level, minimum temperature

Any electric kettle worth its salt can boil water. It takes a smart machine to regulate temperature. I decided to test the Aarke Electric Kettle's warming capacity and set water to simmer at 40°C, which is just over 100°F.

To start, I stuck the Aarke Electric Kettle under the faucet and filled it to the minimum water line. I lowered the lid and pressed the power base button twice to set the machine to 100°F. It took about 75 seconds to get the water up to temperature and ready for inspection. 

When I inserted my digital thermometer, I got a temperature reading about 15 degrees hotter than expected. This threw me: I'd filled the Aarke Electric Kettle with water from the faucet, same as always, and I'd left the kettle to cool for a good 10 minutes after Test 2. 

Drinking water at this temperature won't scald you. In fact, it could boost your blood circulation, aid your digestion, and relieve aches and pains. Given the inaccuracy of Aarke's temperature regulation this time around, I'd hesitate to drink this water straight from the kettle. I'd recommend pouring it out and letting it cool, instead. 

Test 4: maximum water level, minimum temperature

Following that minor disappointment, I wanted the Aarke Electric Kettle to prove itself in the final test. For the sake of completeness, I decided to boil the maximum volume of water at the minimum temperature. 

You know the drill by now: I filled the kettle, fitted it onto the base, and pressed the power button. After a few rounds of testing, the Aarke Electric Kettle was beginning to show finger smudges. That's the danger of a stainless steel surface. To keep it clean, you'll need to buff the body of the kettle at least once a week. 

The Aarke Electric Kettle took two minutes, or 120 seconds, to warm 1.2L of water. This time around, the temperature regulation was much more accurate, and warmed the water to 105°F, just one degree warmer that expected.

I put away my digital thermometer and got out my mugs – it was time for tea. I poured water from the Aarke Electric Kettle over a selection of tea bags and left them to brew. I offered two of the mugs to Laura and Molly, two of our expert testers who were just taking their tea break. Both agreed that the water was pleasantly warm: not too hot and not too cold, but just right for sipping.

Cleaning the Aarke Electric Kettle

Compared with the competition, the Aarke Electric Kettle is pretty easy to clean. All you need to do is rinse it under warm water. The stainless steel surface is seamless, without any of the rims and ridges that make scrubbing a chore. I recommend rinsing your kettle and leaving it to air dry, before using the microfiber cloth to buff away any streaks or smudges. 

As you might be able to see from the image above, small dots started to appear on the base of the kettle towards the end of the test. This looks like the beginnings of limescale, the chalky deposit that's left behind when hard water evaporates. You might not like the sound of limescale, but it's really nothing to worry about: in small quantities, like these, it won't do any damage. Aarke recommends descaling your kettle once every two months and giving your lime filter a good scrub with dish soap. Whatever you do, it's worth learning how to clean an electric kettle for safe, hygienic boiling.

How does the Aarke Electric Kettle rate online?

The Aarke Electric Kettle only launched last fall. It's a recent edition to the range at Aarke, and one of the newest electric kettles on the market, which might explain why it's so hard to find reputable reviews, aside from a smattering on Amazon. Funnily enough, they're all five-star. One customer praises the 'subtle Scandinavian style', while another declares that 'the function matches the form'. 

The only real complaint concerns the kettle's size. The Aarke Electric Kettle has a capacity of 40.5 fl. oz. That should be more than enough for smaller households, but it might not be sufficient for a whole family of tea drinkers. Then again, there's no such thing as a bottomless kettle. If you do run out of water, all you have to do is fill it back up. 

How does the Aarke Electric Kettle compare to other kettles?

The Aarke Electric Kettle ticks all my boxes, but it won't suit everyone. If Aarke's stainless steel design leaves you cold, and you're looking for something classic, you might prefer the Fellow Stagg EKG Electric Gooseneck Kettle, available at Amazon. It comes with a pointed spout for powerful, precise pouring. Plus, it's matte black, so it won't pick up quite so many smudges or stains. 

If you appreciate Aarke's thermoregulating capabilities, but you're looking for something more capacious, you should consider the Breville Smart Kettle Luxe, available at Breville. This 1.7L kettle holds space for up to seven cups at a time. It's ideal for larger households or gatherings. 

The Aarke Electric Kettle is crafted from stainless steel, which should complement any kitchen color palette. If you're looking for something that can stand out against white walls, then you might prefer the Smeg Variable Temperature Kettle, available at QVC. It comes in a range of cute pastel shades, from baby blue to rosy pink, with a few bright whites, reds, and blacks thrown in for good measure.

Should I buy the Aarke Electric Kettle?

The Aarke Electric Kettle retails for around $270. That's a lot of money to spend on a kettle. If you're not big on tea or French press coffee, you might not be able to justify the purchase. If you regularly warm or boil water, and you want to do it in a sleek machine, then I can't recommend the Aarke Electric Kettle highly enough. It's an excellent insulator and by far the best-looking electric kettle on the market. 

How we test kettles

We're stringent with our testing standards at H&G, and while electric kettles might seem straightforward, we don't let standards slip. We test our kettles at the minimum fill level and the maximum fill level. We record any variation in temperature from the claims of the manufacturer and what we actually find on our thermometers, and we also time how long it takes. We also record the noise level in decibels of kettles as they come to a boil. That's to say nothing of all our user tests, assessing how easy the kettle is to use, clean, maintain, and store. There's more information about our processes in our explainer of how we test. 

In busy homes, only three things really matter for your toaster: capacity, reliability, and versatility. Breville’s Die Cast Toaster scores a home run on all three and still comes with other nice extras too. It ticks a lot of boxes for a lot of people, so our experts were keen to find out more.

I've been testing the best toasters for months and I had high hopes for the Four Slice Die Cast. I tested it across a range of breads, from basic white bread to artisan sourdough, fruit bread, gluten-free bread, as well as pop tarts.

Generally, I was pretty impressed with most of the Die Cast's features. Whilst I think the 'Smart' tag in the name is a bit of a stretch and it wasn't the most consistent, it comes with luxurious (or unnecessary) quirks too. There’s a lot to love, but a little to learn.

Specifications

Unboxing

Breville does a great job of recyclable packaging. This came in cardboard, packed with some more cardboard, and then a little bit more cardboard too. There was some plastic protecting the aluminum outside, but not a huge amount. 

On the countertop, this looks bigger than lots of other toasters, but the design won't dominate your space. Plus, this is a four-slice model, so the dimensions are going to be bigger anyways. The slots looked nice and wide, perfect for big chunks of bread and the overall aesthetic looked sleek. If you have aluminium or stainless steel in your home already, this would fit right in.

Who would it suit?

The sheer capacity and versatility of the Breville makes it perfect for large homes. You can warm two pop tarts for kids on a more delicate setting at the same time you toast two slices of sourdough at a fiercer setting. Plus, you’ll hardly have to do a thing: there’s an auto lift and auto lower function integrated to help those who always have their hands full when it’s time to toast.

The buttons along the top of the toaster look like a lot to learn, but they're just duplicated, because they control apply to two of the slots each. It looks like quite an overwhelming selection at first, but once you're used to it, you can easily toast a wide selection of breads. 

What is it like to use?

As I just mentioned, the long row of buttons actually makes this look more complex than it is. The slots work two at a time, so they're effectively like two separate toasters which have been welded together. There's no way to set all four running at the same time, but you can get pretty close: you just press one button and then the next.

Once I had figured out the controls, I ran the toaster through empty, as you always should. Sometimes, this will create a plastic smell, but this didn't happen for the Breville.

Test 1: White bread

White bread is a good test of any basic toaster. It felt close to criminal placing super-cheap, sliced bread in a toaster this premium. Nevertheless, I slotted my slice in, and set the timer for two minutes. The Breville auto-lowered and clamped my toast into place for exactly two minutes. 

At one minute and thirty seconds, I tested out the 'Lift & Look' function, which almost lifted the whole slice out of the toaster. The toast (or bread at this point) was really pale, so I wasn't sure how it would turn out at the two minute mark. You can see from the picture that ended up looking pretty pale. 

I put the slice back into the toaster and pressed the 'A Bit More' button, which adds thirty seconds to the timer. I ended up pressing that twice, so the image above is the results of three minutes' toasting. That's quite long for such a simple piece of toast and that was reflected in the flavors. The white slice tasted dry and crumbly.

I think the Breville was just warming up, because I tried the same again at the end of the tests and my toast was golden in one and a half minutes. The color was still not distributed evenly, but it looked a lot better than my first attempt. 

I also had similar results trying the same white bread from frozen, using the frozen setting. It was warmed through, not too dry, and a deep golden color. The Breville really warms up as you use it, so you'll need to be prepared to experiment a little.

Test 2: Sourdough

The white bread set a precedent for under-toasting. I tried a long slice of sourdough, but the short slots couldn't fit it in unless I halved the slice. This is pretty standard, but there are a few toasters (such as the Smeg Four Slice toaster, available at QVC) on offer with longer slots if that's a deal-breaker for you.

I gave the sourdough three minutes, thinking it would probably be underdone. It came as no surprise that this was very pale when the toaster lifted my sourdough at exactly three minutes into toasting. 

I gave it another two minutes, so it had now had five minutes in total. At this point, the top crust of the sourdough was well done, whilst the base of my slice was a little pale. I didn't want to burn the top, so took it out and put butter on it. Taste wise, this was warm, crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, so the Breville had done a relatively good job. I would have just liked more consistency and a shorter toasting time.

Test 3: Bagel

The bagel setting is one of Breville's dedicated buttons, so I was hopeful that this would be a success. I gave this a standard two minutes to toast, which is how long most models take. However, when the Breville lifted my bagel out (at exactly two minutes) it was way overdone. You can see in my picture above that it was too burnt to eat. I cut it in half and, interestingly, it was still doughy in the middle. If there's a silver lining, it was the doughy center. It's an indicator that this can be good toaster for bagels, but be careful with your timings.

I tried giving a different bagel just one minute on the bagel setting and I thought it was almost overdone again, although I like my toast quite light. There was a good, golden crunch to the cut side of the bagel, without the outside becoming too leathery on the outside. The doughy middle was still soft too, so once you know to expect an uncharacteristically fierce performance on the bagel setting, this can do a good job.

Test 4: gluten-free bread

There are few baked goods as tricky to test as gluten-free bread. I put my slice in for two minutes, on the standard setting. When it auto-lifted on the two minute mark, it needed a bit more more — and then a bit more, and then a bit more. 

The end results were pretty gross: the bread was dried out and tough to eat. The gluten-free bread was my second slice in the toaster after turning it on, so I think it hadn't heated up to its full, fierce power yet. If you are putting gluten-free bread into a cold Breville toaster, opt for three or four minutes, rather than repeating 'a bit more', because that's where you sacrifice on texture.

Test 5: Fruit bread

I won't sugar-coat it: this was a disaster. The bagel button is also the fruit bread setting, but you need to double-press this to access the alternative setting. I didn't realise this and gave my fruit bread one minute on the bagel setting. It came out as bread on one side and completely cremated on the other. You can see in my picture, that it's a stark contrast.

Once I had established how to switch between settings (you can tell because the lights turn blue), I put my fruit bread in on the specific setting. After one minute, I was keen to take it out, given my previous experience with the Breville, but it was too light. I gave it the full 130 seconds as recommended and, no surprises, it turned out overdone. 

On my third piece of fruit bread, I used the proper setting, gave it a minute and a half, and it was good. If I gave it more time, it was likely to be overdone, so I settled for lightly golden toast. It was well-warmed, lightly crunchy, and fluffy on the inside. It's the story of this toaster in miniature. It can make excellent toast, but there's a learning curve that you shouldn't need for such a basic appliance.

test 6: Pop tart

I used the gentle fruit bread setting on my pop tart, because I didn't quite know where I stood with the Breville at this stage. It was warm after one minute, but I gave the pop tart 'a bit more' from the settings menu and took it out after that final thirty second blast. The icing was still neatly intact, whilst all the insides were gooey and crumbly. This was the greatest success I had with the Breville, so I was really pleased.

Cleaning, storage, and maintenance

Breville has thought about everything when it comes to cleaning and storage. The crumb tray is easy to remove from the base; the auto-lift comes up high enough to stop small crusts from festering at the bottom of the slots; and the finish on the Breville is finger-print resistant. I had buttery fingers and didn't leave a mark. If you don't like cleaning toasters, it's a low-maintenance option.

Storage-wise, although this is big, it cuts a pretty sleek silhouette. There's also a neat cord storage part at the bottom, which will stop your countertops from getting all cluttered with wires. I'd recommend buying this only if you have the countertop capacity to keep it on show. It's probably a bit too big and too much hassle to take in and out of a cupboard, especially because this took a long time to cool down.

How does it rate online?

There aren't a lot of reviews dedicated to the Breville Four Slice Smart Toaster; most people talk about the alternative Breville Die Cast Two Slice, available at Amazon . However, from the few reviews I found, this turned out to be a popular option. People were impressed that, across four slots, all the pieces of toast would lift up evenly toasted (compared to each other). Lots of reviewers enjoyed having a cycle countdown indicator and a reasonable range of buttons for their toasting functions. Another popular feature was the auto-lift and lowering, which sounds excessive, but even I (a gimmick cynic) found it useful. When you're busy in the kitchen, it's one less thing to think about.

Criticisms were generally around the buttons. People felt that they looked more complicated than they needed to be. Whilst being able to toast on two independent settings was incredibly useful for some, others just wanted a way to set all four slots running together, in synchronisation.

People noticed that this heats up quickly and takes a while to cool. That explains why I wouldn't recommend storing it in a cupboard and why my toasting times got shorter and shorter as I worked through our breads.

How does it compare?

I've tested my fair share of toasters and have a lot of thoughts about where Breville Die Cast 4-Slice Toaster sits in the rankings. As far as four slice toasters go, this has the best range of settings. Not many bigger toasters have a bagel function and they certainly don't have the auto lowering and lifting (which so many people love). However, Breville doesn't make their four slot toaster from two long slots. This meant that, models such as the Smeg Four Slot Toaster, available at QVC could effortlessly fit a long sourdough slice in (see image above), the Breville could not. I had to halve my lovely, long artisanal slice in order to fit it in. 

Whilst the Smeg doesn't have the luxury of the auto-lift, it was much more consistent at toasting different breads, so was easier to use. If you eat a lot of artisanal breads and you need capacity, I think I'd be tempted to go for the Smeg, even though it means sacrificing on Breville's special bagel function. 

If you don't need capacity, but like the sound of a smarter toaster, you need to check out Breville's The Toast Select Luxe, available at QVC. This shares a similar aesthetic to the Breville Four Slice Die Cast, with a sleek, aluminium finish, but has more settings (including whole grain, rye, and waffle), whilst delivering much more consistent results. The only drawback with The Toast Select is that you're unlikely to save any money. Even though it's half the size, it's still the same price. However, if you prize aesthetics and performance, this is a competitive option.

Should you buy it?

The Breville Die Cast 4-Slice Toaster is great if you need capacity in the mornings. Having the ability to isolate two slots and run different settings at the same time can be priceless for some families. Plus, after using the handy auto-lift function for a while, I came to resent manual lift toasters (first world problems, I know). However, if you'll be using this to make lots (more than eight slices) of toast, you'll need to keep an eye on timings, because it's inconsistent when you haven't used it for a few hours.

How we test

At Homes & Gardens, we take our toaster testing very seriously. That's why we have a team of experts who make sure that any toaster we review has been through the ringer. Before it arrives in our kitchen, we'll research it, so we know all about the special features. Then, when we can carry out our real-life evaluation, we'll put it through our standardized series of tests, as well as any that can see what the special features are like. 

Once we're happy with our opinion of a toaster, we'll write up a review for you, letting you know about everything from unboxing to cleaning (as well as taste tests, of course). If you're interested in finding out more, you can visit our dedicated page for how we test.

The KitchenAid name is almost synonymous with quality. Best known for their iconic stand mixers, the brand has expanded into a range of other kitchen appliances. I was very skeptical at first, because it's all too easy for a company to slap their brand on a sub-par appliance and coast on their reputation, but a lot of the newer KitchenAid products have lives up to the long shadow cast by the stand mixers. 

I could not wait to get my hands on the KitchenAid Manual Lift Toaster. Whilst I have enjoyed testing some of the most technical, best toasters on the market, there's nothing quite like returning to the American-made basics. That's exactly what this stainless steel toaster offers: durability, simplicity, and reliability.

I used the KitchenAid Manual Lift to make crunchy toast, tasty pop tarts, and butter-melting bagels. After rigorous rounds of testing, here's my verdict on KitchenAid's basic model. 

Specifications

Who would it suit?

The KitchenAid is small, compact, and comes with two, wide slots. It's a good option for compact kitchens, especially if you're shopping on a budget. This is quick to toast, but the two slots mean that this is better suited to smaller homes. If you have a lot of mouths to feed in the morning and you have to wait two minutes for two pieces of toast to be ready, you might find the capacity a little exasperating.

The KitchenAid retails between $60 and $80, so is a great, simple option, but that's also reflected in the aesthetics. This looks boxy and basic. There are some nice, classic KitchenAid color panels (red, black, and gray), which would look good if you have a color theme in your kitchen. However, they don't hide the fact that this looks pretty functional. 

Unboxing

KitchenAid packaged the toaster well. The box's dimensions suggest that it's going to be a lot bigger than it is, which is a relief. It's not a heavy box, but it's an armful to carry. The reason it's so big is that they've surrounded the toaster with completely recyclable carboard, which wins big points with me. Not only does this mean that the toaster arrived in perfect condition, it didn't fill up my garbage.

On the countertop, the KitchenAid looks sleek. It's relatively small and a little boxy, but would look neat alongside other stainless steel appliances. KitchenAid offers the toaster in a few different colorways. They're still mostly stainless steel, but have red, black, or grey panels on. If you own a KitchenAid stand mixer, you can make a start with some color co-ordination. 

What was it like to use?

Before toasting, I pulled the lever down so that it ran through one toasting cycle totally empty. You don't need to do this before every use of the toaster, but it's standard practice to do the first time you ever use a toaster. You'll smell a slight plastic, burning smell, which isn't pleasant, but it disappears quickly and I didn't smell it again.

The controls are simple. There are five different strength settings as well as function buttons for bagels, defrosting, giving your toast 'a little longer', reheating, and cancelling your toasting session. 

Test 1: White bread

The standard test for every toaster is basic bread. We put a slice of white bread into the toaster and set it to medium strength for two minutes. This is the normal amount of time we allow for on our toaster tests and, as you might expect, it was all the time the KitchenAid needed. 

Our toast popped up at two minutes precisely. It was browned evenly, not dried out, and warm enough for butter to melt into it, but not too hot to hold. Both sides looked very similar, so I have nothing but praise (and a stomach full of toast) after our first round of testing.

There’s also a useful setting for toasting frozen bread, which, whilst standard on most machines, is by no means consistent across them all. 

I had a slice of frozen white bread in the toaster for three minutes and it came out overdone if anything. The good thing was that it was consistently overdone, so I knew the toaster was evenly heating my bread. You can treat the frozen setting with the same timings as you would normal toasting. My mistake is a good warning, though: this is a powerful toaster.

Test 2: Sourdough

Even though the slots are nice and wide, they’re not quite long enough for a full piece of artisanal sourdough. Granted, there are only a few toasters (such as the Smeg four slice) which can handle this. The KitchenAid is not one of them. 

I cut my original, slice in half and put it in the toaster for four minutes. When it popped up, the sourdough was a little browner than we wanted it to be, but it was still enjoyable and definitely edible. Again, it was a good temperature for spreading butter and peanut butter on, allowing them to melt and soften without dripping off the toast. 

Test 3: Bagel

Thankfully, the KitchenAid has a specialised bagel setting: when I placed it in the toaster, I spotted that this sat in a nice and high position, easy to lift in and out. 

I gave the bagel setting two minutes and, perfectly on time, it popped up. I was surprised at how well done it was. I like a marginally lighter toast, so would have preferred this to have finished about five seconds earlier. However, the rest of our testers enjoyed the soft and doughy inside, well toasted cut side, and just gently warmed outside. I couldn’t have hoped for a better bagel result. 

Test 4: Gluten-free bread

Gluten free bread is notoriously difficult to work with. You never know how it’s going to toast or taste, but the KitchenAid was excellent. We set it for two minutes and, when it popped up, we thought we needed to use the ‘a bit more function’ to brown the toast a little more. 

Our results were, again, faultless. The gluten free bread was golden across both sides. Sometimes the ‘extra time’ settings on toasters can dry out bread, but this one just gave a quick blast, enough to brown the outside of the toast whilst keeping it soft on the inside. 

Test 5: Fruit bread

Any kind of enriched dough, from brioche to cinnamon buns and fruit bread, can go from soft to scorched in a matter of seconds. I’m much more relaxed toasting these kinds of breads when there’s a dedicated setting for them, but in the KitchenAid, you can only control the power and strength. I turned it right down, nearly to the weakest setting and watched my fruit bread through the top, wide slots of the toaster. 

The light setting is extremely gentle, so I had my slices in for a full two minutes before they automatically popped out. They were nicely browned, none of the fruit or rough edges had caught and burnt, and the bread was warmed right through. In my caution, I think this was on the lighter side of toasting. I increased the strength level by one increment and gave a new piece of fruit bread two minutes. You can see in the picture above that the second round was much closer to burnt, but still good. There are quite dramatic steps between the toasting strength levels and that's worth being mindful of.

Test 6: pop tart

If a toaster can’t nail pop tarts, I’m out of the room. It’s surprising how many over cook, under cook, or crumble these deliciously sweet treats. I kept the heat nice and light, putting my Cookies 'n' Cream flavor biscuit sandwich in for three minutes. It came out unscathed, looking perfect, but it felt hot. I broke it in half and could see the gooey insides oozing out, whilst my outside had stayed nice and crumbly. It was almost too hot to eat straight away and I would probably recommend leaving it for thirty seconds before you take a bite, but apart from that, this was perfect.

Cleaning, storage, and maintenance

KitchenAid has put a lot of consideration into the clean-up process. The crumb tray is easy to slide out and wipe clean, plus the stainless steel exterior doesn’t show any fingerprint marks. It’s very low maintenance and small enough for compact kitchens. 

In day-to-day storage this is easy to lift up and move around the countertop or cupboards.There’s also some neat cord storage underneath the toaster feet, so that you don’t end up with wires all over your kitchen when you're moving it around. 

How does it rate online?

As you would expect, people love this online. Out of nearly 12,00 reviews on Amazon, this has an average of 4.4 stars. Reviews praise it for being well-built and durable. People loved wide toasting slots, allowing for good chunks of bread to sit comfortably in the toaster. The low maintenance exterior got a lot of online love too.

Criticisms were all on the topics that I expected. Some people wished for more capacity, more color options, and more toasting options. This is a basic toaster and, when it comes to KitchenAid products, some customers expected a little more. Customer reviews also mentioned a plastic smell the first time that you use the toaster, but that’s a close to universal experience. You should always run your toaster through one round of toasting before putting any bread in.

How does it compare?

There are two lines to choose between for the KitchenAid: the Artisan and the Manual Lift. This Manual Lift, stainless steel model is a kitchen essential. It’s well built and simple, perfect if you’re putting function at the forefront of your appliances. The Artisan is the luxurious, upgraded version of the Manual Lift. It comes with a greater range of colors, automatic lowering and lifting, as well as a cheese toastie option. However, the Artisan is much heavier and costs triple the price too. Whilst I love the luxurious functions, I often feel a little skeptical of auto-lowering systems. They feel premium, but if they break, you’re pretty screwed.

If you want more of a range of settings, Breville’s The Toast Select model is a similar size, but comes with specific toast settings (including for waffles, wholewheat bread, pastries), an LED countdown timer, and a more smooth and sleek aesthetic, rather than a boxy design. It makes great toast, but is, again, triple the price. If you're on a budget, you can't do better than the KitchenAid.

Should you buy it?

If you want a simple toaster, which is repairable and dependable, without any vanities, this is the one for you. It consistently toasted a range of breads without too much fuss. There are other, more beautiful and technical models on the market, but you'll need to double your budget to own one and you won't necessarily get better results.

How we test

At Homes & Gardens, we take toaster testing very seriously. Before we recommend a product to you, we take it to our test kitchen. There, our team of experts will put it through our series of standardised tests, using it to toast white bread, sourdough, bagels, fruit bread, gluten free bread, and pop tarts. We do this to every single toaster we test, so that we can make direct comparisons between each toaster. If you’re interested in the process, you can visit our page to find out all about how we test.

I’ll start by stating the obvious: this is one of the most eye-catching espresso machines on the market. It’s classic Smeg style – all chrome, color, and polished, glossy finishes.

I’ve been admiring this for months. It certainly looks the part, but, as a former barista, I was keen to find out whether it was as substantial as it is stylish.

The Smeg has some serious competition in the best espresso machine and it’s done a good job. I made some nice coffee with it and found it really straightforward to use. However, if you’re looking for technical perfection, there are better places to spend your money. 

Specifications

Unboxing

Some espresso machines come with lots of fiddly extras, but Smeg has kept things simple. Once I had taken the machine out of its (mostly recyclable) packaging, it looked almost ready to go. 

The Smeg comes with four different portafilter baskets, a weighty, Smeg branded portafilter, a premium Smeg tamper, a Smeg stainless steel milk frothing jug, and some cleaning accessories. 

To get started, I screwed the airtight bean hopper into place. In true Smeg style, this clicks in a wonderfully tactile way when switching between grind settings. It also has a seal and UV protectant plastic, ensuring any beans left in the hopper retain their best, fresh flavors. 

The capacious water reservoir lifts off from the back, which makes it easier to fill than other machines. Whilst it’s not awkward to hold, it doesn’t have the neat handle that some De’Longhi machines do. This means you need to grip both sides, which can make it hard to turn the tap off without spilling or wasting water, but it’s better than having a fixed reservoir.

Who would it suit?

Smeg puts style first with this espresso machine. It’s available in a range of colours, perfect for everything from modern, monochrome kitchens to colorful, cozy farmhouse interiors. 

Aside from the obviously beautiful aesthetics, this is a huge machine. It demands a lot of space on the countertop, so you’ll need to clear some room. It's also heavy, so you’ll want to leave it on display (for the sake of your back and your cupboards). 

What is it like to use?

If you’ve never owned an espresso machine before, this is a good model for beginners. It’s easy to use, has obvious controls, and two steamer settings. It’s quite basic, both for grinding and coffee settings, so if you aren’t going to get overwhelmed by dials and gauges.

Whilst simplicity suits most of the coffee market, if you want to get technical, you might find this a little limiting. The grinder and its 15 settings are a great example of this. In our buying guide for the best coffee grinders on the market, the smallest range we have is 30 settings and our team of experts were critical of that small range. As you start to tune into coffee, you might want more from your espresso machine.

Test 1: espresso

I started with the basics. If a machine can make a good espresso, it’s done most of the hard work. After warming up the machine (which took about five minutes), I ground my coffee, on setting 6, into the portafilter. There’s a neat holder fitted onto the machine, so you can leave the machine to dose and grind. I had a look at the coffee grounds and they were all consistent — it was a really impressive. 

Locking the portafilter into place was easy and, after that, all I needed to do was place my espresso mug underneath. The brew head sits quite high up, so I did see some coffee splashing onto the stainless steel around my mug, but the espresso itself looked great. This had a thick, hazelnut crema and felt like a good temperature. I gave it a taste test and this was pretty good. The flavors were evenly extracted and subtle. It was a little flatter than some of the best espressos I’ve made, but I think the average coffee drinker really wouldn’t pick up on this. I’m being a pedant, because it’s my job to be picky. 

Test 2: Americano

The next test is Americano. I tend to use quite tall glasses for my Americanos: I like to see my coffee and I think the aesthetics are generally nice and elegant. However, the slightly awkward brew head makes it difficult to fit tall glasses (and tall travel mugs) underneath. I had to decant my Americano from one, more shallow mug, into my tall Americano glass. This won’t be a problem for most people, but is worth noting if you have two glasses and mugs.

You have to make the Americano yourself. By that I mean the espresso comes out under the brew head and you get your hot water from the steam wand. This means that you have to be a little bit more involved in the process compared to espresso machines (like De'Longhi's La Specialista Maestro) which can dispense hot water out of the brew head when water is coming out of the steam wand. The water comes out at quite a high pressure so will splash coffee at the side of your mug. This looks a little messy but as it fills up you won’t notice the splashes.

The coffee itself was nice, well extracted and light. I would’ve liked it to be a little warmer but if you run the steam wand for longer you will get hotter water out. This was the first time that I was using the steamer, so I think a lot of the water cooled in the stainless steel wand.

Test 3: cappuccino

I used both dairy and plant-based milk to froth both latte and cappuccino milk. This was largely a success, even though the milk steam wand is a little basic. To texture milk, you place the stainless steel jug under the steam wand and choose either the lighter or thicker settings. You'll need to position the jug and stop the steam from running, so, aside from choosing the settings, the milk texturing will be dependent on your skill. If this isn’t intuitive to you, you will learn quickly because burnt milk, tastes horrible.

A manual steam wand is a common feature of espresso machines, so you'll probably need to learn how to froth your own milk. However, I think it’s tricky for beginners, especially when there aren’t many automated settings so I’d recommend taking some time to work out. If that sounds like a lot, there are some good milk frothers on the market that you could invest in.

Both my oat and dairy milks were warm, sweet, and smooth. They complemented the espresso really nicely, so I was pleased with the results of the Smeg. The steam wand can move through 360 degrees, so is really flexible to a range of angles, making milk texturing as easy as possible.

Cleaning, storage, and maintenance

As you might expect with chrome and stainless steel, this is quite a high maintenance machine. Paired with coffee splashing from the brew head, I found myself almost constantly having to wipe down the Smeg to keep it sparkling. The brew head also drips a bit, so will leave coffee marks on the brew tray. I locked my portafilter in tightly and still struggled with this issue, so just make sure to include it in your regular maintenance routine. It’s worth taking time over cleaning, because this is a big machine. It will draw attention in your kitchen and you will only want that to be the good kind of attention.

I was impressed with how considered Smeg have been with their storage options. When you slide out the drip tray, you’ll reveal a neat storage solution hidden under the machine. Here, you can keep brushes and spare portafilter baskets. This stops you cluttering up drawers with coffee paraphernalia and reduces the risk of you losing an all-important part. 

How does it rate online?

Reviews for Smeg’s latest espresso machine all approve. It’s well received by customers and experts alike. People often emphasised that this is tailored towards beginners rather than really technical coffee drinkers, but I think that’s a good thing. Speciality coffee is becoming more and more accessible, so it seems only natural that Smeg change with the times.

As a machine which appeals to beginners, it’s easy to find features both celebrated and criticised. For example, the steam wand comes with two settings. Some reviewers said that this would be helpful for beginners, others felt that it wasn’t automated enough. Some others felt that it wasn’t manual enough, so you’ll need to know where you sit in the coffee maker market to know whether you need a little more help, or a little more freedom. 

Whilst people loved the aesthetics of the Smeg (although there are some who it doesn't appeal to), almost everyone said that they thought it was expensive for a basic espresso machine. They also reiterated that tho is pretty huge on the countertop, so you’ll need to be ready to craft a coffee nook around it.

How does it compare?

I think it’s important to make two comparisons here. The first is to Smeg’s other, smaller espresso machine and the second is to Breville’s Bambino Plus (a good espresso machine if you’re a beginner and if you plan on getting technical further down the line).

Smeg’s Retro Espresso Machine has a similar aesthetic. It comes with the same curved, colorful, chrome finish, but this is a much smaller model. To cut down on size, Smeg removed the integrated grinder (so you’ll need to buy one separately) and made everything a bit shorter – most notably the steam wand. Having to grind separately takes a bit more time and effort, but gives you the option to get more technical with your coffee grounds and to save on countertop space. Buying two appliances separately will increase the cost of your machine, but for those who care about grinding, or who already own a grinder even, this could be worth it. 

Both Smeg machines have low brew heads, so won’t necessarily brew coffee straight into your travel mug. Both are also imperfect at steaming milk. The smaller Smeg model has automatic steam functions, but these can leave milks a little bubbly, especially if you drink plant based milks. There's also the inescapable fact that they're much more expensive than they should really be.

If you liked the idea of a more technical espresso machine, there are plenty of excellent models in our buying guide. However, some of these can seem a little daunting to novice coffee drinkers. Breville’s Bambino Plus has the ability to get really technical, but the option to keep things really simple. It makes an excellent cup of coffee, steams milk automatically (and perfectly), and still has a sleek and stylish stainless steel finish. The Bambino Plus looks more functional, but stainless steel finishes can look really smart in plenty of kitchens. 

Unlike the Smeg Semi-Automatic, this doesn’t come with a grinder, so you will need to buy one separately. However, this is still one of the cheapest machines on the market, so you'll have some money left over from buying the Breville and a good grinder than you would if you bought the Smeg Semi Automatic.

Should you buy it?

If you put style first, you should absolutely buy this espresso machine; it’s striking. It’s beautiful and reasonably capable. However if you plan on becoming the next best barista in town you’ll need a machine which is a little more capable. I’ve tested lots of brilliant machines at a similar price point and they’re included in our buying guide for the best espresso machines. Have a look at those if you don’t think this is for you.

How we test espresso machines

At Homes & Gardens practicality before anything when we do our reviews. That’s why we have a team of dedicated experts who test every product we recommend to you. Before we call a model into our test kitchen, we do a deep dive, reading around and researching everything we need to know about an espresso machine. 

Then, our team of experts will carry out their in-person tests. We put every espresso machine through our series of standardised tests as well as checking any special features and functions. We'll also make notes on taste, performance, and usability leaving no stone and unturned. That means when machine arrives at your door, you know exactly what to expect. If you’d like to find out more about how we test you can visit our dedicated page.

Modern rustic kitchens are all about balance. The spaces are characterized by a wealth of aged, exposed surfaces and beautiful architectural features combined with sleek lines, yet they have all the functionality of a modern kitchen. 

An abundance of exposed wood and stone are juxtaposed with more modern materials like polished concrete, while sleek fitted cabinetry is often teamed with relaxed freestanding pieces and antique furniture. Whether you’re looking to create a kitchen from scratch or bring some modern rustic kitchen ideas into an existing space, we've gathered an array of stylish schemes and handy expert tips to help inspire your project.

Modern rustic kitchen ideas

The beauty of modern rustic kitchens is that there are no strict design rules when it comes to designing a kitchen, the options are endless. Its mix of old and new makes modern rustic a versatile look perfect for country and city homes. The style puts patina and texture at the forefront and lets architectural features take the lead in the design.

The key to a successful scheme is to strike the right balance of old and new. Too many rustic surfaces and aged pieces of furniture and the space can feel dated; alternatively, go too minimal, and a modern kitchen can sometimes feel cold and clinical. It's about drawing on rustic kitchen ideas but giving them a modern twist.

‘The appeal lies in the balance between modern sophistication and the warmth of rustic charm,’ says interior designer Julia Dempster. ‘It’s about creating a cozy yet stylish environment that feels both timeless and contemporary.’

1. Combine exposed brick with sleek lines

Interior designer Shannon Tate-Giordano, founder of Shannon Tate Interiors, has paired beautiful natural timber and industrial brick with sleek lines to create a perfectly balanced modern rustic look in this Boston home. 

‘I think the wood tones and brick lend themselves to what one would call a rustic palette, yet the clean lines of the hood, and the arched shelves, as well as the lighting, all add a refined energy that leans more femme-modern.' says Shannon Tate-Giordano. 'This kitchen feels like you could look out the window and see many different European Countryside settings, yet you are in Cambridge, Boston.’

2. Choose contemporary wood cabinets

With its brick floor, wooden ceiling beams and sleek wood kitchen cabinets, this stylish kitchen, set in an ancient barn in Suffolk, England, has all the hallmarks of a modern rustic space. Sleek yet characterful, the handcrafted, modern rustic deVOL kitchen cabinets beautifully complement the historic architecture and feature doors constructed from beech planks which have been gently stained to allow the grain to shine through. ‘We have come to think of the look as "urban rustic"; it brings a little bit of woodland into the city, with some style,’ says Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL.

Of this Suffolk Dairy kitchen she says: ‘It’s a simple layout; a huge kitchen island, a clean straight cabinet run with a classic Smeg range cooker and no wall cupboards, which allows the beauty of the ancient structure to shine through without hampering a modern lifestyle.’ Great for a small modern rustic kitchen space and letting your modern rustic kitchen wall decor ideas run wild.

3. Celebrate natural materials

You don’t need a historic home to create a kitchen with rustic character. In this newly-built waterfront property, Herlong Architecture and Interiors introduced a wealth of timber and stone into the kitchen to create a welcoming space full of patina that pays homage to its coastal setting.

‘The initial interior design inspiration was drawn from the clients' love of natural stone and appreciation for natural materials. I wanted to marry their love for natural stone in a way that was both functional and beautiful, and so the stones could act like their own works of art,’ explains Cintra Sedalik, designer at Herlong Architecture and Interiors.

‘The kitchen backsplash is a slab of Maya Quartzite from Brazil which abstractly resembles ocean waves. This slab informed the touches of deep blues and greens found in the fabrics and light fixtures of the great room and scullery. Warmly finished Pecky Cypress is used throughout the home to bring in a coastal wood that helps ground the voluminous spaces with a more cozy feel.’

4. Mix historic architectural features with modern materials

In this breathtaking kitchen, the designers at Roundhouse paid homage to the architecture by creating a stark contrast between old and new, adding a sleek white kitchen in a room within a room. While the handleless white cabinets, polished concrete and glossy marble all contrast with the history of the property, this only serves to highlight the architectural features without distracting from them.

‘The aim here was for a design that was clean-lined and pared-back so that it didn't clash with the stunning architecture. The key to success was a palette of honest materials layered to create subtle interest,’ says Sam Hart, senior designer at Roundhouse.

‘A statement kitchen island is placed center stage in the new scheme and is encased in concrete for extra wow factor. Tactile, smooth and cold to the touch, concrete can make a striking and durable worktop material.’

5. Embrace sustainable style with salvaged wood cabinets

Brimming with warmth and unique character, this kitchen by Retrouvius combines an array of reclaimed timbers ingeniously redesigned to form a functional kitchen.

‘The kitchen cabinet doors are made from salvaged frames which have been reversed so you see the textured patina, while the doors are made from salvaged hardwood architraves; the ridged structure doubles as door handles,’ say the design team at Retrouvius.

The kitchen countertops are salvaged Iroko wood from municipal buildings and the salvaged brass kick plates bring beautiful warmth and can easily be unscrewed and replaced if required.

6. Mix bespoke cabinets with antique furniture

Opting for a mix of modern, bespoke cabinetry and antique freestanding kitchen pieces is a wonderful way to create a unique space full of character. Not only do vintage kitchen pieces such as dressers and butchers' blocks have a beautiful patina from years of wear, they can also be easily moved should you want your kitchen reconfigured.

‘This kitchen is the vision of a creative London couple who have spent years collecting antiques, curiosities and other furniture for their Edwardian family home,’ says Leila Touwen, co-founder of Pluck Kitchens. ‘The space is about the layers of old and new, the combination of antique and modern, it feels like a room rich with stories and history, but it is not stuck in the past.’

‘Pluck’s design includes an L-shaped layout that works with the shape and flow of the room. The cupboard doors are Elm and Brockwell Moss cabinetry, the different materials add to the sense this is not a traditional fitted kitchen, something that was important for our clients.’

7. Choose rustic yet practical materials

Interior designer Julia Dempster is renowned for her use of varied rustic textures and has continued the theme throughout this guesthouse kitchen. Fabrics like relaxed organic linens and old grain sacks are perfect for capturing the rustic look, however, in kitchens, they can be impractical as they can pick up smells and easily stain. 

Combining style with functionality, here Julia Dempster chose seating in a wipeable Perennials Performance Textured Linen Weave which brings lovely texture without the worry of spills or stains.

‘The Restoration Hardware slip-covered linen high-back dining chairs were on castors and doubled as a lounge chair, hence this model was chosen. I wanted them to be practical and resistant to stains. With outdoor grade upholstery, they withstand more wear and having loose covers means they can be washed easily. I decided to go dark as I knew they would have a great deal of use by guests.'

8. Introduce texture with handmade tiles

Mixing an assortment of kitchen tiles is an easy way to introduce pattern and texture into a timeless kitchen. Here interior designer Shannon Tate-Giordano used a combination of terracotta floor tiles and patterned wall tiles to bring rustic Mediterranean charm to this classic Shaker-style kitchen. 

'We chose terracotta because we wanted this kitchen to be classic and timeless,' explains Shannon Tate-Giordano, founder of Shannon Tate Interiors. 'The terracotta floors paired with our hand-made, hand-painted backsplash tiles give it a natural rustic feel because each one is slightly different, (as comes with the human touch) which gives a feeling of soul and approachability.'

Wooden open kitchen shelving and copper pans add further warmth to the space, bringing balance to the cool blue cabinets and industrial subway kitchen wall tiles.

9. Pair warm wood with utilitarian accessories

With its sleek wooden cabinets paired with playful industrial kitchen lighting and mid-century-style chairs, this modern rustic kitchen by Elizabeth Roberts Architects is both sophisticated yet warm and characterful.

‘Much of the interior of the house is clad in wood (tongue and groove paneling) to bring the warm feeling of a ski cabin. The wood kitchen is finished to match that wood paneling,’ says Robby Rathmann-Noonan, director of interiors at Elizabeth Roberts Architects. ‘The island is clad in darker finishes and creates a nice contrast with the white and wood walls.'  

‘We altered the industrial pendant lights to make them "perfect" for this project including having the diffuser frosted so that they would work a bit better when seen from underneath. We also had them rewired so they hung on a fabric cord (rather than in their original industrial style with a hook, wire, and chain).’

‘The dining chairs aren't vintage but are newly made versions of the vintage "Revolt" chair available at 1stDibs that come in a wide range of finishes. We selected them because they came in a range of woods and colors and could be mixed well with all the wood in the room.’ 

10. Add subtle texture with lime plaster walls

Renowned for her love of rustic textures and patinas, Julia Dempster combined lime plaster walls, wood cabinet doors and a polished concrete floor to bring layers of character to this modern neutral kitchen.

‘This was an extremely dark room; I stripped ninety years of layered wallpaper and finishes back to the bare concrete and exposed the original concrete ceiling and oak beams,' explains the interior designer. 

'I wanted to bring warmth but keep it light, so I added subtle texture with a lime plaster. Cement, polished concrete surfaces and industrial elements are softened with an eclectic mix of warm wood textures and copper lighting from Amber Shoppe.'

11. Introduce softness with fabrics

With their wealth of exposed surfaces, sometimes modern rustic kitchens can benefit from the introduction of fabrics to soften the space, plus, textiles can help deaden sound for a more relaxed atmosphere. Used under countertops instead of cabinets, fabric valance ideas for kitchens can also make a quick and affordable way to conceal modern appliances or kitchen clutter. 

Here a ceramic reclaimed sink, together with a sink curtain in Tori Murphy's Dresser Check cotton fabric and full-length kitchen curtains in a sheer linen mix, all contribute to a rustic French country kitchen feel.  

What is a modern rustic kitchen?

Modern rustic kitchens are characterized by their mix of contemporary design and wealth of natural materials and textured patinas. A versatile kitchen style that can complement both historic and new properties, modern rustic combines up-to-date functionality and appliances with aged and characterful surfaces for a perfect balance of practicality and comfort. Any architectural features, whether country-style or industrial are preserved and showcased within the design rather than concealed.

'Key elements include incorporating materials like wood, stone, and metals to bring in a sense of nature and authenticity,' explains interior designer Julia Dempster. 

'I tend to embrace a palette of neutral tones, such as earthy browns, grays, and whites, to create a calm and warm atmosphere. Utilizing sleek and simple lines in furniture and architecture while maintaining a sense of simplicity means rustic elements stand out more.'

How do you make a modern kitchen look rustic?

Introducing furnishings, accessories and window treatments in textural, natural materials is a great way to add rustic charm to a modern kitchen and will help the space feel more lived-in and characterful. 

When creating a modern rustic kitchen, 'so much of it comes down to materials used,' says fabric designer Tori Murphy. 'Natural materials that speak  have a sense of character and imperfections are allowed to shine through, and layers of fabrics – cottons, wools, linens all softened with age will add to the look.' 

'Gentle hues in paint colours, timber, and stone act as the perfect backdrop for personal possessions that are gathered considerately over time,' adds Tori Murphy.

Decorating shelves in kitchens with antique pieces and introducing natural materials through accessories is an easy way to bring instant character. 

'I love using open shelves in kitchens as they can add drama but offer a practical solution as everything is at hand and can be viewed easily,' says Julia Dempster. 'Do not have all the items on a longer shelf the same height. Not only should you contrast textures and materials, but height too. I would recommend using a series of elements as they add more impact.'

You can also try switching light fittings and hardware for vintage-style designs in warm burnished brass. 'Antique lighting above an island is a fun way to bring in patina. I love finding one-of-a-kind lighting fixtures and having them rewired to use above an island,' says interior designer Allison Babcock.  

There are plenty of milk frothers on the market. If you've considered any, I imagine they'll have been either Nespresso's subtle tube shaped frother or Smeg's chrome style statement. However, if you take notice of TikTok, you'll know the most popular milk frother is the Illy.

Illy is already well-established in the coffee industry, so I expected them to deliver a pretty good milk frother. What I didn't expect was near perfection. It's a simple model  — there are certainly more technical frothers on the market — but if you want warm, silky milk, you don't need to look much further.

As a former barista, I've steamed a lot of milk in my time, so I know what to look for in the best milk frothers. I took this to our test kitchen and used both dairy and almond milk to make hot and cold foam in the Illy. Whilst the Illy isn't without its limitations, it's my favorite milk frother by far.

Specifications

Unboxing

Packaging for the Illy is ultra-compact. I was surprised they'd even managed to fit a milk frother into the box that was no more than a bag of flour. However, when I opened it up, there the milk frother was. Even better, all the packaging around it was recyclable, so once I had it opened, I had no clutter to dispose of. 

On the countertop, it looks neat. The Illy comes in either black or white. I tested the black, which has a slick look, but, in pictures, I like the clean aesthetics of the white. They make the milk frother look a little more stylish and less functional. 

Who would it suit?

Whilst the lly is a beautiful, capable machine, it's also quite small. The 5 oz capacity is perfect for one large or two small servings and no more. If you have a small kitchen, or don't need to serve more than one person, this is a dream come true. 

As someone who always has almond milk in their coffee, I was delighted at how well the Illy frothed non-dairy milks. In fact, it's one of the most successful milk frothers I've tested for nut and oat milks. If you're a plant-based milk drinker, this is the one for you.

When in use, the Illy is close to silent, so if you need frothed milk in the early hours of the morning, you can easily make it without waking the house. I doubt someone in the same room as you would be able to hear it. Combined with the small footprint, you could almost forget that the Illy is even on your countertop.

However, if you're a household of more than two coffee and hot chocolate drinkers, the Illy's capacity will quickly create queues around the kitchen. There are plenty of models with more capacity which will suit your needs perfectly.

What is it like to use?

When an appliances is too simple, I start second guessing myself. That's exactly what I did with the Illy. I plugged it in, rinsed out the jug, and that was it. It was ready to froth some milk. I double checked the instructions and they confirmed that it really is that simple. 

Test 1: frothed milk

The first, most obvious, test for the Illy was frothing dairy milk to be hot and silky. I touched the icon for hot, frothing milk, and in complete silence, my 3 oz was whisked into a beautifully silky texture. 

I checked on the milk periodically by looking through the clear plastic lid and lightly touching the sides of the stainless steel jug. I stopped it myself when I felt the milk looked like it was getting a bit too silky, but it will automatically stop at 155 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pouring it out, I had about 1/2 warm milk and 1/2 froth in my cup. That's a really frothy coffee. I wouldn't even use that for a cappuccino, but the texture was thick and held its structure really nicely. You can flip the whisk for less frothy results. 

The fact that the Illy jug is just like a barista's makes it easy to work with: I banged mine on the side and swirled it to reduce the foam and then could pour smooth latte milk, rather than thicker cappuccino. It has a lovely, slightly sweet flavor and really silky mouthfeel.

Test 2: cold frothed milk

The cold milk, at first, was a little less successful. My first result was bubbly with next to no texture. This might have been bad luck, because when I tried it again, I got better results. It was still a little less silky than the hot milk, but a considerable effort from the Illy. The mouthfeel was really good once I had given the jug a few knocks: it felt velvety and cool.

My word of warning would be that the Illy needs to be completely cool before frothing cold milk. That's the warming plate underneath too. If you'll be switching between drinks, this will take a long time, unless you remember to prioritize cold drinks before hot ones.

Test 3: hot milk

If you're someone who doesn't fancy froth and would prefer just warm milk, the Illy can do this easily. The setting is the same as the one for hot chocolate and it will take your hot milk up to 160 degrees Fahrenheit. I tested the precision of this and it was, remarkably, accurate. My first glass was 159, the other was 160 exactly. This is a great temperature, because the milk tastes sweet without being burnt at this point.

Test 4: non-dairy

Non-dairy milks are notoriously difficult for milk frothers to handle. They don't behave like normal milks, so can split, burn, and look, quite frankly, disgusting. I used almond milk to test the Illy and I was blown away. The first note I made just says 'wow'. It was the best almond milk froth I have ever made. I'm a barista and often opt for almond milk in my hot drinks, so that's a tough award to win, but this easily takes it. 

The milk was thick and velvety. When I poured it, it looked like marshmallows. The almond notes had been warmed and sweetened, but not burnt. I still don't know how the Illy did it, but I checked again, and again, and again. It was faultless every time.

Cleaning, storage, and maintenance

Cleaning and storing the Illy is easy. The jug is dishwasher safe, but I'd wash by hand to make sure that you don't loose the all-important, frothing whisk. The lid will need to be kept clean, especially so you can keep a keen eye on your milk whilst it's frothing. 

Overall, the finish on the Illy is very glossy, which tends to be higher maintenance than matte products. I would make sure to have a clean microfiber towel nearby to give the base and stainless steel mug a wipe and a polish after use. Be careful of the base, because this stays hot after use. I burnt my hand touching it so you should be careful.

How does it rate online?

There are strong opinions around the Illy. These are all, almost exclusively, positive. I read a review where one user, who thought milk frothers were pointless, declared the Illy 'transformative'. People love the three, easy settings and everyone commented on the touch-screen icons, which have a modern, smart feel. Many also commented on the elegant design, so even though I've told you about storage, it seems that most owners sit their milk frother on display.

As you might expect, the non-dairy milk drinkers particularly love this. Online, I've seen plenty of TikToks about the Illy. Whilst I only tested almond milk, the videos of how it handles oat, hazelnut, and cashew nut fall in line with my experience. This is a good milk frother.

As always, there are a few people who didn't like the Illy. Capacity was an issue for many, so, take note: if you need to make more than two cups of coffee at once, look at the other milk frothers on the market. The size is also an issue when it comes to cleaning. I found a couple of people who said their hands are too big to reach inside the jug. I think most people would be fine, but if you identify as someone with particlarly large hands, this is something you might struggle to clean.

How does it compare?

Nespresso is on the obvious comparison to the Illy milk frother. I was pleased at how well it fought against Nespresso's well-established reputation as the compact, stylish milk frother of the moment.

The Nespresso Aeroccino 3 is slightly more expensive, with a little more capacity (4-8 oz) and, I do really like it. However, the Illy's jug shape is really useful for when you want to pour in patterns or play a little with the texture of your milk. There's not much between the two: Nespresso is better for capacity, Illy has better ergonomics. You can't go wrong.

If you'd like even more capacity and luxury, but don't want to compromise on style, let me introduce you to Smeg's milk frother. This was my kitchen crush for years. I've admired the range of colors and retro style from afar. In terms of aesthetics, the Smeg is better. It's beautiful, but harder to keep quiet on your countertops. The dial on the Smeg is more interactive and, I actually find it a little more reassuring. The Smeg also has an 8 oz capacity and can froth milk nearly as well. I don't think it's as good on plant based milks, but that's a marginal fault. The biggest deal breaker is that the Smeg is over double the price of the iIly. You need to be desperate for more capacity and a stand-out milk frother to pay that.

Should you buy it?

If you want a small and stylish milk frother, you can't go wrong with the Illy. It's excellent across a range of temperatures and milk types. You won't taste better warm almond milk than that made in the Illy. However, if a compact milk frother wasn't what you wanted, there are plenty more options.

How we test

At Homes & Gardens we want to give practical advice. That's why all our reviews are unsponsored and done by our team of expert product testers. They take every appliance we recommend to our dedicated test kitchen. There, they'll make sure to use every feature on a milk frother, so that they can report back to you in deep detail on what each model is like.

We also make notes on unboxing, cleaning, storage, and maintenance, so that you know everything you need to know before making a purchase. If you'd like to find out more, you can visit our dedicated page for how we test.

A stand mixer is a great addition to every kitchen, whether you are a baker, just a home cook, or someone who is aspiring to elevate their culinary abilities. 

The best stand mixers can be incredibly versatile, especially if you invest in all of the associated attachments. They’re good for mixing dough and batter, of course, but these machines can also work as food processors, meat slicers, meat grinders, and cheese shredders, just to name a few potential uses. 

A stand mixer is a versatile kitchen companion that can transform your cooking and baking experiences. To harness its full potential and understand why you need a stand mixer, consider the following uses.

How to get the most out of a stand mixer

Unwrap the full potential of your Christmas stand mixer with these expert tips.

Understand the attachments

Most stand mixers, including the KitchenAid Artisan(our pick for the best stand mixer in the world) come with various attachments. However, not all of them are the same. To get the most out of your mixer, it's essential to know when to use each one. 

The paddle attachment is great for general mixing and creaming, while the whisk is perfect for whipping cream, egg whites, and making meringues. The dough hook, as the name suggests, is ideal for kneading bread and pizza dough. 

By using the right attachment, you'll save time and effort, and your recipes will turn out better.

Optimize speed settings

Appliance expert Sarah Johnson suggests you should master the art of adjusting speed settings based on the recipe, as one of the biggest mistakes people make when using their stand mixer is starting at a high speed. However, this can be problematic, especially when mixing dry ingredients like flour, which can create plumes of dust.

Lower speeds are perfect for mixing dry ingredients, while higher speeds are ideal for whipping creams and beating egg whites. Experiment with different speeds to achieve the desired consistency once the ingredients are incorporated. What's more, starting slow will prevent the flour from forming lumps, which can affect the texture and consistency of your recipe.

Room temperature ingredients

Ensure that your ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature before using the stand mixer. This allows for better incorporation and a smoother texture in your recipes.

Other dairy products, like cream cheese or milk, blend seamlessly when at room temperature, preventing any unwanted lumps or clumps in your recipes. Letting these ingredients reach room temperature is a simple trick to elevate the quality of your baked goods.

Scraping the bowl

When mixing thick batters or dough, it's common for ingredients to get stuck on the sides of the bowl. To ensure everything is evenly mixed, regularly scrape the bowl with a spatula. 

If you're making whipped cream, for example, after the initial mixing, stop the mixer and scrape the bowl to ensure that no liquid is pooling at the bottom. This way, every last bit of cream will be whipped to perfection.

Gradual ingredient addition

When adding dry ingredients to wet ones, or vice versa, do so gradually. This promotes thorough mixing and prevents clumps. Be patient and allow each addition to fully incorporate before adding more.

One thing to keep in mind is not to overmix your ingredients. When you overmix dough, in a stand mixer such as the Beautiful Stand Mixer by Drew Barrymore, the gluten strands become too elastic and tough, resulting in a dense and dry finished product. Similarly, when you overmix egg whites or cream, they can become grainy and lose their silky texture. So, whether you're making cake batter or bread dough, take care not to overmix your ingredients.

Cleaning and maintenance

Finally, to ensure that your stand mixer remains in top condition, make it a habit to clean it regularly. Most mixers come, such as the Smeg 50's Retro Stand Mixer from Amazon with removable attachments and bowls that can be washed in the dishwasher. 

However, sometimes, food particles or flour can get stuck in the crevices, so it's best to disassemble the mixer and clean it by hand. Also, keep in mind that some parts, like the planetary gear or the motor housing, should not be submerged in water. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions on how to clean your specific model.

FAQs

To get the most out of a stand mixer, always use it while it is placed on a flat surface. This will make it stable and the ingredients will have a good chance to mix thoroughly, Always attach the right accessory when you are using it for any purpose. You can always adjust the bowl of your stand mixer for effective performance.

If you took a look at my Christmas wish list, you'd find a premium juicer at the very top. I always start my day with a glass of OJ and I'd love nothing more than to make my own. By the time this article goes live, I hope to be the proud owner of a cold press. 

Maybe you were gifted a juicer this holiday season, or you treated yourself to one in the sales. You'll soon find that you can make so much more than plain old OJ. Once you learn how to get the most out of a juicer, your palette will expand beyond the confines of the grocery store selection. You can experiment with unexpected flavor combinations and learn to love new fruits and vegetables. 

All this might sound a bit intimidating to a beginner, but that's where I come in. As part of H&G's kitchen testing team, I've worked with some of the best juicers on the market. I know my way around a machine, which is why I've written up some dos and don'ts to help you get to know your juicer. 

How to get the most out of a juicer

Use it for: fresh fruit juice

Once you've made your own fresh fruit juice, you won't want to go back to the store-bought stuff. You can produce single servings to suit yourself or juice in batches to feed the whole family. Plus, when you make juice at home, you can omit additives and preservatives that could alter the taste and interfere with your digestion. 

One of our product testers, Alex, made the best orange juice he's had in years with the Nama J2 juicer. He puts it down to the fineness of the filter, which strained out most of the pulp, leaving just enough for that freshly squeezed feel. 

You don't need to stick to citrus fruits. If your new juicer is worth its salt, you could squeeze anything from apples and berries to cucumber and coriander.

Use it for: firmer fruits and tougher textures

Any decent juicer can squeeze soft citrus fruits. It takes a special sort of machine to get all the goodness out of firmer produce and tougher textures. 

If you haven't already, unbox your juicer and have a good look at it. Consider the size  of the feed chute: a wider opening can accommodate larger ingredients, from whole strawberries to pineapple spears.

Skim over the specifications and try to find out what sort of juicer you own: whether it's fast or slow. Fast juicers, also known as centrifugal juicers, are powerful enough to squeeze whole fruits, though leafy greens and herbs might get caught in the blades. If you still can't tell what kind of juicer you have, take a look at the wattage: faster juicers have more powerful motors, in the 1000-1500W range. 

Use it for: a kitchen style statement

As kitchen appliances go, juicers are among the prettiest, as well as the most practical. If you've been gifted a juicer this Christmas, I'd recommend clearing some counter space and displaying it pride of place in your kitchen. 

There are cute and compact makes that come in all manner of pastel shades. I love the look of the Smeg Citrus Juicer, especially in baby pink. It's bright enough to stand out against stainless steel and white walls, without totally overwhelming the space. 

For aesthetics, there's nothing like an artisan juicer. I'm not the biggest fan of the Verve Culture Citrus Juicer, but even I can admit it's beautiful: slim and streamlined, with a splash of gold running up the side for a touch of retro charm. If that's what you found underneath the tree, you'll love looking at it, though you might struggle to juice anything larger than a lemon. 

Don't use it for: soups and smoothies

Juicers just aren't that versatile. You can make orange juice, apple juice, and lemon juice, granted, but that's not a very long list. If you want to make shakes and smoothies, hearty soups, and chunky dips, you might be better off with a blender. 

Where juicers press produce between fine mesh filters to separate the liquid from the flesh and pulp, blenders blitz fruit and vegetables into thick and creamy purées. The best blenders can tackle soft and firm produce, as well as tougher textures, such as leafy greens and protein powders. 

If you get a blender with a heating element, then you can prepare and cook soups and sauces right there inside your pitcher. I was pretty skeptical about this before I tested the Ninja Foodi Cold & Hot Blender. This thing chopped my aromatics and sautéd my onions to make a delicious, nutritious butternut squash soup.

The best blenders don't come cheap. You might not be able to afford a brand new appliance so soon after Christmas. With that said, it's worth keeping track of the Boxing Day sales to bag a blender for less.  

Don't use it for: prepping produce

If you want to squeeze produce, get a juicer. If you want to chop it and chunk it, use a blender. If you want to slice, dice, grate, shred, or do any other kitchen task that requires fine motor skills, your best bet is a food processor. 

Where juicer blades are short and sharp, food processors use S-shaped slice and shred discs. These blades spin more slowly to make more precise cuts to all kinds of produce. You could use a food processor to grate cheese or mince meat, as well as slice through fruits and vegetables. 

A big and beefy food processor might not be as pretty as an artisan juicer, but it might make a more practical kitchen companion. I've spent hours searching the web to find the best food processors at the fairest prices. 

How to get the most out of a juicer FAQs

Final thoughts

Now that you've got your very own juicer, it's important to take good care of it. It's worth learning how to clean a juicer for safe and hygienic use to get the most out of your gift. 

If you're going on a health kick in the new year, you might be wondering: is juicing or blending healthier? We've gathered expert advice from nutritionists and dieticians to help you make informed choices for your body. 

It's indisputable that white is one of the most classic color choices. It goes with everything and makes a space feel large, clean, and bright. These are surely the qualities of the color that compelled Cindy Crawford to choose white cabinets, white countertops, and a white backsplash in her kitchen. However, interior designers caution that too much of the shade can look sterile and be difficult to clean. Despite these concerns, experts admit that this shade is classic and versatile with benefits that ultimately outweigh the cons. Here's what the experts had to say about white kitchens.

As for the pros of the shade, interior designers say that Cindy Crawford's kitchen decor will never go out of style. Gaelle Dudley, head interior designer and founder of GLDESIGN states: 'White is timeless, never boring! Although kitchen trends are fun, in my opinion, you can never go wrong with a classic white kitchen. I find myself
always searching for the perfect white hue when designing projects and I
personally prefer a crisp white with no yellow undertones.'

Furthermore, white kitchen decor has benefits for the appearance of the space. Yvonne Landivar, LA-based kitchen and bath designer at Landivar Design states: 'The main advantage white kitchens have is to make a space feel larger, especially in a small enclosed kitchen such as a galley or U-shaped kitchen.'

However, Yvonne also cautions about the potential drawbacks of this kitchen color. She states: 'All white kitchens lack the contrast our eyes need to be able to focus properly and find our cooking utensils and spices right away. They are rather sterile looking and seem to lack that cozy feeling we get with warmer tones of wood, paint, and textures on other surfaces like the countertop and backsplash.'

She continues, 'The main drawback to this kitchen color trend is keeping your beautiful white kitchen looking clean is a full-time job, and most working parents and busy adults find it rather tedious to have to dust off their white cabinetry constantly.'

Despite their concerns, the experts agree that Cindy Crawford has pulled off the white kitchen look due to one essential element: attention to texture. Cindy's matte marbled backsplash and white stone countertops combined with the stainless steel stove and wooden sofa create a visual variety that breaks up the look. 

Yvonne says, 'The white kitchen look has been solid for about the last ten or fifteen years, when mixed with other textures and colors it’s a classy look that has longevity and can be timeless.' Gaelle adds on texture in a kitchen stating: 'You can never go
wrong with a white tile, either. Make it more interesting by switching up
the patterns with a herringbone or vertical stack for a backsplash.'

Shop The Edit

Like it or not, white cabinets and countertops make for a timeless kitchen design. With a focus on texture, you can get a look just as chic as Cindy Crawford's home.

Purchasing a juicer can feel overwhelming – with such a wide range of juicers available on the market and factors to consider – it might be a little perplexing if you don't know what to look for.

With the rush of Black Friday deals and Christmas panic buying, it's easy to make some common juicer-buying mistakes which can leave you winding up overspending or purchasing a juicer that is not right for you.

Well, fear not. We've got you covered with all the mistakes to avoid when buying a juicer and tips from experts to ensure you buy the best juicer, whether for yourself or as a gift.

Juicer buying mistakes

Juicers are an increasingly popular kitchen appliance, perfect for adding more nutrition to your diet, and are a great way to begin the day.

Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned juicing enthusiast, juicers combine, power, durability, and intuitive design, assuming you have chosen the right model. It's all down to finding the best model that will suit your juice and blending preferences, lifestyle, and space requirements.

1. Failing to choose the right juicer for the job

Possibly the most significant mistake you can make when buying a juicer is choosing one that doesn't suit you.

'Many consumers overlook the fact that there are different types of juicers, each with its own set of pros and cons,' explains Sarah Johnson, appliance expert at Big Air Fryers. 'From centrifugal to masticating and triturating juicers, all with different functions, understanding the distinctions is crucial.'

Hashi Mohamed, president of Ivy Cleans explains: 'Centrifugal juicers are generally faster and more affordable, but they can be noisy and less efficient at extracting juice from leafy greens or wheatgrass.

'Masticating juicers, on the other hand, are slower but more efficient at extracting juice, especially from tough greens, and they usually produce a higher quality juice with more nutrients.'

Triturating juicers are top-quality, versatile juicers, providing the most thorough and efficient extraction, however, these operate more slowly and can be trickier to clean.

Be sure to research the various features of different juicers and find one that coincides with your blending preferences and the amount of time and energy you want to allocate to using your juicer.

Additionally, 'Choose a juicer that can juice the types of produce you plan to use,' advises Andhi Ermawan, tech expert, professional product tester, and the founder of My Pros And Cons. 'Each juicer is suitable for a certain kind of fruit or vegetable, and using an unsuitable one will cause a waste of juice.'

For example, some juicers are better suited for leafy greens, while others handle fruits and hard vegetables more efficiently, so choose a juicer that can juice the types of produce you plan to use.

2. Not considering size and capacity

Another mistake is buying a juicer without considering its size and capacity.

The first reason that this is essential to consider is to ensure you buy a model that is practical for the amount of juice you want to make. If you plan to juice for just yourself, then a large juicer may be unnecessarily clunky and impractical, however, if you are doing so for a big family or because you tend to make juice in large batches, a more substantial model will be essential.

Secondly, Julian Righetti, owner of MOD Appliances advises, 'Make sure the juicer you choose is the right size for your kitchen and can easily be moved around or stored away when unused. If you have a kitchen or your juicer needs to fit away in a cupboard, consider the space it will take up.'

Assess and measure the available kitchen space before purchasing a juicer, finding one that seamlessly fits with your available space. Consider compact designs or those with vertical storage capabilities to ensure they fit seamlessly into your kitchen without causing clutter.

3. Ignoring cleaning time

Not taking into account how long it takes to disassemble and clean a juicer can lead to reluctance to use it later down the road since it can become an unexpectedly cumbersome and time-consuming juicing experience.

Look for juicers that are easy to disassemble, clean, and reassemble. Models that are dishwasher-safe parts or simple cleaning mechanisms will encourage regular use and maintenance, ensuring longevity and hygiene. 

4. Purchasing a juicer with features you don't need

One common mistake to avoid when buying a juicer is investing in one with additional features you are unlikely to use. While a juicer with numerous fancy features might seem appealing, each component will likely raise the juicer's purchase price.

'Generally, a juicer with a basic design fitted to your requirements is usually worth more than one full of unnecessary features,' advises Andhi Ermawan. 

Buying a high-end juicer with numerous features when you only plan to juice occasionally or don't wish to spend much time doing so might be unnecessary.

Instead, choose features that align with your juicing needs rather than those with excessive add-ons that may not be practical in daily use.

5. Disregarding the noise level of the juicer

'Remember to consider the noise level of the juicer. Some juicers can be loud, so if you don't want to wake up your entire family or disturb your neighbors, find a model with a low noise level,' recommends Julian Righetti.

There are also a few tricks you can use to reduce the sound made without compromising your juicer quality, including using a silicone mat underneath your juicer, such as these Leceha mats, from Amazon to reduce the sounds the vibrations.

6. Purchasing a juicer without seeing reviews

Be sure to never buy a juicer without seeing customer ratings and reviews.

Reading evaluations of juicers will assist you in determining whether the juicer you are considering is the best version and if it is right for you. Many web pages are dedicated to providing this data, including our guide on the best cold press juicers.

You may want to stick to reputable brands such as Nutribullet, Ninja, and Breville which have a wealth of positive reviews and reliable manufacturers. 

This will help you determine whether the attributes of a specific product will benefit you.

7. Buying something inexpensive and poor quality

'Another problem is putting more emphasis on costs than on quality,' says Andhi Ermawan. 'Choosing a cheap model may appear wise in terms of economy; however, users usually have to be content with poor quality and a short lifespan.'

'Avoid choosing a juicer made from cheap materials. Watch out for materials that tend to break under stress, especially those that are doing all the hard work,' advises Christenda Costa, CEO of Gadget Review. 'Juicers are meant to take a beating and should be made with exceptionally strong operating mechanisms to ensure the most longevity possible between part replacements.'

Juicer performance often increases with price. Bigger prices are accompanied by greater features, a longer guarantee, a bigger juice output, simpler cleaning, and, frequently, a more aesthetically pleasing device. If you are intending to invest in a juicer to use long-term, looking for the cheapest option may not be the best idea.

However, expensive doesn't always equate to the best and may not align with your blending preferences. Sometimes mid-range options can provide excellent performance without breaking the bank. Many individuals begin juicing by purchasing an inexpensive centrifugal juicer for less money, and when they feel they are ready to step up their blending game, they step up their blender quality, choosing a masticating or triturating blender.

Determine your budget range and look for juicers that offer the best value for the features you prioritize. 

8. Disregarding the warranty

Don't make the mistake of getting distracted by the exciting features of your blender and forgetting to check how long the warranty is before purchasing.

Always get a juicer with an extended warranty; if the machine breaks down, you won't have to pay for repairs for a longer length of time. 

Extended warranty periods may also serve as a reliable indicator of superior quality since a longer warranty period demonstrates the manufacturer's confidence in their product's longevity.

FAQs

Sarah Johnson reminds us, 'The primary purpose of a juicer is to extract high-quality juice, however, some models may compromise on this aspect, leading to lower nutritional value and taste.'

Be sure to consider all these factors when purchasing a blender to ensure you choose the best quality model according to your lifestyle. This way you can be confident that you will be satisfied with your choice in the long run.

Without a shadow of a doubt, appliances are designed to make life easier. Choose them wisely and they can turn a hectic household routine into one that is streamlined and dare we say, harmonious. 

Note that organizing kitchen appliances might be easier said than done. And, if traditional and obvious space is not on your side, how can you sensibly buy kitchen appliances you need, without negatively impacting your home's functionality?

An overly busy kitchen and cluttered kitchen countertops will never do. Whether you are working with a small apartment space or would like to enjoy some Black Friday home deals, without any guilt, looking beyond classic kitchen storage ideas might see you enjoying that brand new coffee maker, without compensating your home's aesthetic and function.

Kitchen appliance placement rules for more harmony

Much like a stand mixer will quickly counteract sore arms and preserve essential baking minutes when forming stiff peaks, an air fryer could let you take back precious time, for moments better spent enjoying dinner around the table. If you are still stuck on how to integrate new appliances into your home's existing layout, we called on the experts for their best recommendations – in and out of the kitchen. Stick to their rules for best success:

1. Always think of your home's natural workflow

Firstly, when considering anything new for your home, viewing purchases as investments is best practice when shopping sustainably, and to help keep an organized kitchen. 'As an interior designer, I have often faced the challenge of seamlessly integrating appliances into a home's aesthetic flow,' shares Vera Li, interior designer for POVISON. 

'It's a delicate balance between practicality and visual appeal, and one that requires careful consideration of both the appliance's function and the space it will occupy.'

Next, ask yourself how, and how often, you will use the appliances. This will help determine the best positioning, whether you're looking for the best appliances for small kitchens or shopping for larger items to feed a bigger household. 

'Frequently used appliances, like coffee makers and toasters, should be easily accessible, preferably within countertop reach. This minimizes the amount of movement required for daily tasks, ensuring a smooth and efficient workflow,' says Li.

2. Make subtle spatial changes to 'camouflage' appliances

Going custom with kitchen cabinetry will help carve out the exact amount of space you need for different appliances, and they can be designed for a nearby pantry, or neighboring hallway where space allows.

London-based interior designer, Rudolph Diesel, shares: 'How you arrange your home’s layout will have a huge impact on how you conduct your domestic day-to-day life; even subtle changes in your spatial arrangement could have a large impact on the home’s aesthetic and functionality.

'Before committing yourself to a particular arrangement or range of furniture, I’d consider evaluating whether you could accommodate built-in home appliances. These home appliances, like dishwashers or refrigerators, are designed to seamlessly blend in with the room’s cabinetry. This can maximize storage space and create an integrated aesthetic throughout the room, which is why built-in appliances are especially popular for places like the kitchen or utility room.'

Artem Kropovinsky, an interior design expert and the founder of Arsight recommends we reserve bespoke solutions for larger appliances: 'Put bigger appliances into custom cabinets for a clean design that is both useful and attractive.' 

This can also work for smaller items that need a little disguising. 'For appliances that don't quite fit the aesthetic of a particular space, consider camouflaging them,' says Li. 'Built-in appliances, like ovens and microwaves, seamlessly integrate into cabinetry, creating a clean and uncluttered look.' Appliance garages can also be a brilliant way to disguise and group likewise appliances in a way that will complement the rest of your kitchen styling.

3. Keep appliances at least 4ft apart

We use our countertops for many things, from chopping vegetables to, occasionally, answering emails. When adding more, try to not overwhelm the space you have.

'The general rule of thumb is that kitchen appliances should be at least 4ft apart. As kitchen counters tend to be around 4ft long, you should only have one or two appliances per countertop,' recommends Diesel.

'The only appliances left out on the counter should be the ones you use on a regular basis. If you only use an appliance every now and then, you should store it away in a kitchen cupboard.'

If you find that you have appliances you are hardly ever using, consider donating them if they still work. If they are passed their best and you aren't able to repair them, look into how they might be recycled. Some companies may even offer trade-ins when you are purchasing another product. 

4. Look beyond the kitchen

If you are unable to follow Diesel's 4ft appliance distance rule, and do not have a pantry, consider where smaller, more moveable appliances might be able to live instead. When doing this, it is important to find the right home to keep appliances in safe and proper working order.

'Proper appliance storage is really important to guarantee their longevity and functionality,' says Fantastic Services' appliance technician David Miloshev who shares some guidance on how to approach relocating smaller appliances such as toasters and blenders, elsewhere: 'It’s recommended to store small appliances in a clean, dry area and cover them to prevent dust accumulation. Additionally, keep their cords organized and untangled to prevent them from getting damaged, and avoid wrapping them tightly around the appliance.'

The coffee machine is the perfect example of an appliance you could keep in another room of your home: the bedroom, or dining room, provided it is safely and artistically positioned, of course.

Guillaume Pereira, product manager and KRUPS spokesperson says: 'Coffee machines are good examples of a domestic appliance that can be placed elsewhere than on the kitchen countertop.

'KRUPS coffee machines will perfectly blend in with a refined interior, in the dining or living rooms for example.' So long as general risks are taken into account, for instance, water near plug outlets, moving such appliances to more convenient areas in your home could make life more streamlined.

5. Categorize not just by function

And for the beautiful, and most frequently used appliances, bring them together in ways that make sense visually as well. Clever positioning will help your space maintain its flow, whether they are part of an open-plan kitchen or a modern dining room. 

'When arranging where to place your appliances at home, I’d recommend grouping related items together and designating specific areas to them,' says Diesel. 'For example, you could create a coffee station that holds the coffee maker, mugs, spoons, sugar, and any other related items.'

Though tempting to corral appliances by function, being more flexible with your categories will leave more room for added aesthetic value. 'You could also group appliances with similar colors or styles to create a more cohesive impression.'

6. Let some appliances 'serve as focal points'

Good-looking appliances can be a sight in themselves, but how can you display items without overwhelming your interior design scheme?

Li notes how some can add ambiance. 'While some appliances might require discreet placement, others can serve as focal points in a room. A statement-making refrigerator or a vintage toaster can add a unique touch of personality to your home. Embrace the appliance's form and function, using it as an opportunity to express your personal style.'

We quite like Smeg's 50s Retro 2 Slice Toaster for a vintage toaster.

'Appliance placement is an art that requires a blend of practicality and aesthetics. By considering the function of the appliance, its style, and the overall design of the space, you can create a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing environment,' adds Li.

Kropovinsky highlights how it is all in the detail with appliance placement and that even lighting can make a difference: 'Position the appliances in a way that creates harmony with the room’s interior design and turns them into components of the decoration. For this reason, use lighting that emphasizes these appliances to make them into more intentional design decisions.'

7. Leave space to weave in decorative items

Other creative storage solutions such as open kitchen shelving can allow you to be more inventive and thoughtful with displays. 'Consider open shelving, which allows you to showcase your favorite appliances while keeping them within easy reach,' recommends Li. 'Add a personal touch by accessorizing the shelves with cookbooks, decorative items, or even potted plants.' Indoor plants can bring a more serene feel to kitchens and are easily intertwined with everyday items for a unique finish.

8. Stay true to the essentials

Less is more is often the best way with home design, particularly in an area like the kitchen, which is easily taken from calm to bustling in a matter of moments.

'It can be tempting to leave a lot of items or appliances on the countertop, but I’d suggest keeping countertops clear and having only essential appliances on them,' says Rudolph Diesel. 'Embracing this minimalist design can avoid the build-up of miscellaneous items while maintaining a clean, modern look.'

Numbers matter here, but even choosing a less-is-more color scheme might create more harmony in this space. 'While practicality is paramount, aesthetics play an equally important role in appliance placement,' says Li. 'A well-designed kitchen should exude a sense of harmony and balance, and appliances should complement rather than clash with the overall décor.'

FAQs

Display appliances with intention when finding the best position for them in the kitchen and beyond. Understanding the core function of items to know how you will use them, and how they might add to your home's aesthetic will help create more harmony in your home.

Though the big day isn't until the end of the week, Black Friday deals have been dropping since the start of November. If you know where to look, you could save big on small appliances. Kitchenware is selling at cut prices, and some of the best deals are on juicers. 

With the right juicer, you can squeeze the goodness out of your fresh produce and make smooth-sipping drinks from the comfort of your own kitchen. If you like to start your day with a fresh glass of OJ, you could get a lot of use out of a juicer. But if you want to make creamy smoothies or tackle tougher produce, you might be better served by a blender. 

I'm a product tester, not a salesperson. I'm not going to sell you the best juicer just because it's on sale. Instead, I've laid out the pros and cons of buying a juicer this Black Friday, so that you decide for yourself. We've covered a lot of the drawbacks in juicer vs blender, and I think you'll be better served by the best blender, I'll say so: whether or not it's on sale.

That said, if you are keen to save a little money on a juicer, there's no better time to shop than Black Friday. I've been keeping track of all the best Black Friday deals for our live blog. I've found the best discounted juicers from Breville, Smeg, NutriBullet, and more for your consideration.   

Buy it if: You love to drink fresh juice

Once you've made a glass of your own juice, you'll never want to go back to the store-bought stuff. You can hand-pick the freshest produce or experiment with exotic fruits and unusual flavor combinations. 

A lot of commercially-made juices contain additives, such as sugars, preservatives, thickeners, and stabilizers. These ingredients aren't inherently unhealthy but they can't compare to the natural nutrients of whole fruits and vegetables. When you make your own juice, you know exactly what goes into it. If you choose to incorporate a little pulp, you can reap the benefits of those natural fruit fibers. 

However, it's worth saying that freshly squeezed juice won't keep as well as store-bought. That's an obvious side effect of omitting preservatives. It's best to drink your juice soon after you make it. Pour it straight from the pitcher into a glass to drink it now, or pop it in the fridge to save for later that day.

You'll make the best fresh juice in the best juicer: the Kuvings EVO820. This machine impressed on test for its excellent extraction power and safety-conscious design.  

Buy it if: You want to up your intake of fruit and veg

Once I've made my way through a massive festive meal with all the trimmings, I can't so much as think about turkey for the next week. I'm always keen to eat cleaner in December, but I struggle to feel inspired by a pile of parsley or a bag of spinach. That's why I juice them, instead. 

So-called 'superfoods' like kale and spinach have a very high nutritional density. That means you don't have to eat much of them to reap their rewards. I like to juice a few handfuls of spinach leaves alongside a cup of blueberries and a chopped banana to make a green juice that still tastes good.  

Juicing leafy greens is the easiest way to unlock their health benefits, but not every juicer is up to the challenge. Some of the fastest juicers can power their way through tough produce, but their blades still catch on more fibrous ingredients. To get the most out of your leafy greens, you need a slow juicer, like this one from Hurom. 

Don't buy it if: You're on a budget

Juicers are great appliances but they're expensive. Most of our favorite models are more than $400, which is a lot to spend just to have some juice. The thing with juicers is that quality sharply declines below this price point. There's some hidden gems for sure, but they're simply not as good as top-line juicers. Centrifugal (or fast) juicers tend to be cheaper, but they basically work like a blender. They spin your fruit incredibly fast against a sharp mesh to separate the liquid. However, that fast RPM means frothy, often slightly bitter juice. It's fresh, but it doesn't taste as good as juice from a carton, which defeats the point. 

Juicers are also expensive to run. Juicing fruit is remarkably inefficient no matter how you cut it. You need more than ten oranges to make a carton's worth of juice; depending where you buy your oranges, that's at usually around $10, which is a lot more than you'd pay for juice in the store. Those costs can mount up over the course of a year. If you have enough money that you wouldn't notice this, or a grove of orange trees, that's great. For most American families, juicing can quickly become an expensive overhead. 

Don't buy it if: You want to follow a fiber-rich diet

When I test and review the best juicers, I keep a close eye on the pulp chute. I like a clear, clean juice. If any pulp slips through the strainer into the pitcher, that's a mark against the juicer in my book. 

But all that fibrous pulp has a lot of nutritional benefit. If you struggle to eat enough fiber, a juicer won't help. Instead it will actively take fiber out of your diet. While there's lots of ways you can reuse juicer pulp, let's be honest: most of the time thiswill go straight in the trash or on the compost heap. If you want to increase your fiber intake, a juicer isn't the way to go. 

Don't buy it if: You need versatility

Many of the best juicers double as smoothie makers, sorbet makers, or even milk frothers, but you need to spend big to reap these benefits. Some juicers are truly one-trick ponies. For example, take the best juicer for citrus, this little machine from Smeg. It looks great, but if you want anything other than orange or grapefruit juice, you're out luck. If you want this sort of versatility, you need a blender or a food processor, which can make dips like hummus and guac, as well as frozen cocktails and purées for baby food.

Don't buy it if: You want something portable

It's a less obvious criticism but I'm yet to test a cordless juicer. Whether you're working with a big and beefy machine, or something smaller like the Smeg Citrus, you'll need to connect to a power source before you can juice. That doesn't sound like a big deal, but you can buy cordless blenders which are great for small homes.

If you want to make your juice before you leave the house and drink it on your commute or in the office, you'll need to pour it into a travel-safe cup, and that's just one more thing to wash up when you come home. 

Black Friday juicer FAQs

Final thoughts

Once you've bought one of the best juicers, it's important to take good care of it. It's worth learning how to clean a juicer so that you can get the most out of your product. 

We're keeping track of all the best Black Friday deals on our live blog. Everything from mattresses to major appliances, vacuum cleaners to kitchenware is selling at cut prices. We'll let you know as and when the deals drop, so that you can shop smart and save big. 

The average drip coffee maker will cost you about $300. The Bodum is only $50. When I first saw the price of the Bodum, I couldn't believe my eyes. That's ridiculously cheap and, if it were any other brand, I would think that it's because the coffee maker is bad quality. However, for the last seventy years, Bodum's philosophy has been: 'good design doesn't have to be expensive'. They've delivered on their promises before and, you'll be pleased to know that with Bodum's Bistro Programmable, they do it again.

I've been testing the best drip coffee makers on the market and it took only a morning for me to know that this is easily one of them. The minimalistic, ergonomic machine feels like it should be quadruple the price. Plus, it can brew a decent cup of coffee.

If you're seeking a specialty coffee maker, there are many more technical models available. However, if this is your first foray into home coffee brewing, you won't regret buying a Bodum coffee maker.

Specifications

Unboxing

Bodum claims to take environmental issues seriously. A quick scroll on their page will claim sustainability integrated at every part of the coffee-making process. The coffee maker came in mostly cardboard packaging, but I was surprised to find that there was some plastic wrap, too. However, I reached out to the Bodum team and they reassured me that these are recyclable HDPE and LDPE, which is great to see.

The main body of the machine feels premium, considering the price. On the countertop, it looked slick and smart. There are plenty of stainless steel finishes and the carafe is made from thick borosilicate glass with an easy-to-grip silicone handle, which is unusual for this price point. Bodum also usefully includes a small coffee scoop and paper instructions. This machine is straightforward, but if you're not sure, the combination of images and text makes it incredibly easy to navigate this drip coffee maker.

Who would it suit?

The most obvious appeal of this Bodum is its price. At around $50, it's the cheapest drip coffee maker I've tested. And yet, it doesn't feel like a budget version. Yes, the body is plastic, but the filter is stainless steel, the jug is surprisingly thick tempered glass and there are other silicone and titanium finishes too. It feels comfortable to hold and the design is well-considered, so if you like luxury, but you're stretched a bit thin, this is an excellent option for investing in.

As a basic model, it's worth noting that if you spend more money, you'll get more features. For example, with another $140 added to your budget, the Breville Precision brewer has enough capacity to make six different types of coffee: fast, gold, strong, personalized, pour-over, and cold brew.

What is it like to use?

The first time the Bodum turns on, you set the time on the LED screen. This isn't just to ensure that you're caffeinated and punctual, it means that you can make use of Bodum's 24-hour programmable setting. As the name suggests, you can set a time that you want your coffee to be ready and the Bodum will quietly prepare it. I tested this out and it worked to the minute, so would be really useful if you like to have a pot of coffee ready first thing in the morning.

Another feature that needs some attention before you can start making coffee is the water reservoir. This fills from the back, so you'll need to have a pitcher to fill it. In order to access the reservoir you need to lift the lid and pour very carefully. This is quite a precarious part of the preparation process and, if you have low cupboards, you'll need to pull the machine out from under them, which is frustrating. However, once the 51 oz capacity is full to the max line, you can make 12 cups of coffee before refilling.

Making coffee

Before I explain more about the coffee-making process, I recommend investing in one of the best coffee grinders and using freshly ground coffee to achieve the most flavorful coffee results. If you already own a grinder, use a medium grind to start with (your grounds should look like granulated sugar or table salt), because this will ensure your coffee flavors are optimally extracted, tasting not too weak or too bitter. If you don't own a grinder because you're on a budget and short on time or for any other reason, pre-ground coffee is fine too – as long as it's good quality.

I was using 200 Degrees' Brazilian roast ground coffee and wanted to test out Bodum's coffee scoop. I filled it and weighed it on the scales. It measured 0.5 oz, which is close to perfect for coffee. If you're happy with a little imprecision, this scoop will become your next best friend. It's quick to use and means you can make coffee almost immediately without needing to unpack coffee scales.

I scooped my ground coffee into the reusable filter basket and pressed the front button to set the coffee brewing. When brewing, the machine is really quiet - almost imperceptibly so. The only noise I could hear was the classic drip filter burbling, which was the sound of water boiling and then being distributed over my grounds. The Bodum uses a shower head to ensure that water evenly saturates your coffee grounds, producing a balanced and flavorful cup.

It's hard to go wrong with brewing because there's just one button. So, just under ten minutes after I had pushed the start button, the machine had filled up the coffee carafe with 12 cups worth of coffee. I thought that the jug would feel heavy and awkward to lift, but the silicone, easy-grip handle was easy to hold and really smooth to pour from.

Taking a sip of the filter coffee, I was surprised at how bold and strong the flavors were. I'm used to quite delicate filter coffee, but this was some of the strongest and richest that I've tasted. The notes were really well-balanced too. I thought my grind was a little coarse, so thought the coffee would taste bitter, but it was perfect.

Keep warm

Not everyone wants coffee at the same time, which is when a 'keep warm' heat plate comes in useful. Bodum's warming function won't turn on properly for 25 minutes, because the stain-resistant plate does an excellent job of retaining heat. After that, the machine claims to keep coffee warm for up to two hours. I kept testing it and the coffee was drinkable up until the three-hour mark, after which it was too cold to enjoy.

This is short for a drip coffee maker, but it does mean that the coffee didn't end up tasting stale, burnt, or bitter. Even though I would have liked for the coffee to stay warm for longer, this is a good way to ensure that your coffee is always fresh and flavorful. However, it is a little wasteful if you like to keep drinking from the same jug all day long.

Cleaning, storage, and maintenance

The build and materials of the Bodum means that this is effortless to clean. The stainless steel doesn't mark and wipes clean. The main plastic and silicone body has texture, stopping it from looking cheap or dirty, so it's easy to keep in pristine condition.

When you're finished with the coffee, the filter basket lifts fully out. The coffee grounds end up drying a fair amount, so they're easy to empty into the bin. The filter is supposed to be dishwasher-safe. However, given that it's built to last a lifetime, I would recommend hand washing it. That way you can guarantee that it isn't being treated too harshly or bent out of shape by harsh jets.

How does it rate online?

The Bodum Bistro Programmable is one of the best-kept secrets amongst drip coffee makers. There are 500 reviews on Amazon, which average at four stars. Lots of users note how well this extracts the coffee flavors. People also found it easy to use and felt that the whole coffee maker looked like a more premium product than the price tag might suggest.

The most common criticism was that the reservoir was difficult to fill. The opening is small and if you're in a hurry it's easy to over-pour and make a mess around the machine.

Bodum has been making this coffee maker for years, which is useful for assessing its longevity. There were plenty of reviews from people who use this machine every day, so I found that most people owned theirs for about three years. Oftentimes, the reasons people stopped using the machine were because the plastic cracked (making the showerhead redundant), or the heating plate rusted. If you're careful with drying and cleaning the machine, you should be able to ensure that it lasts a little longer.

How does it compare?

This is by far the cheapest drip coffee maker we've tested. If we wrote our buying guide based on value, this would sit at the top. When using it, the Bodum reminded me the most of Smeg's drip coffee maker. Both machines make use of a showerhead, producing flavorful cups of coffee. Similarly, they are both a little tricky to fill, because the water reservoir opening is small.

Style-wise, Smeg wins. The retro design is available in a range of colors and it looks stunning on the countertop. Bodum is simple and puts forward a surprisingly good case for a minimalistic drip coffee maker, but if you're style-conscious the Smeg is more eye-catching. However, the Smeg was too tall to fit under wall cupboards and the Bodum could just about slide under. If you need to balance convenience and appearance, the Bodum could be a better option.

Even though its dimensions are smaller in total, the Bodum has enough capacity to brew another two cups of coffee too. Flavor wise, it's hard to discern between the two. They both extracted coffee flavors really well and the warming plates didn't spoil the flavors of coffee over time either. Smeg has more flavor settings, allowing you to customize how mellow or strong you want your brew to be and can keep the coffee warmer for longer. This means that the Smeg is flexible for a range of coffee drink habits.

If price wasn't taken into account, it would be a tough decision choosing between the two. However, at 1/5th of the price, the Bodum looks like exceptional value in comparison to the Smeg.

Final thoughts

For the price, this is an exceptionally good drip coffee maker. In fact, there aren't really any models that can compete. The coffee might not speciality-standard and this isn't the kind of coffee maker that you'll keep for a lifetime, but it's good as an initial investment.

How we test

At Homes & Gardens we take our coffee testing seriously. That's why all of the products we recommend and review go to our test kitchen. There, our team of expert product testers will put every appliance through their paces.

I used to be a barista, so I love testing out all our coffee appliances. When testing coffee, aside from the all-important taste test, I also make notes on unboxing, storing, and cleaning a product. This means that when using a coffee maker in your day-to-day life, you won't face any unwelcome surprises - I will have already spotted them. If you'd like to find out more, you can visit out dedicated page for how we test coffee makers.

There's nothing like a glass of freshly squeezed juice. A quick sip of OJ can pick you up first thing in the morning, while a dash of lemon or lime juice can put some zing in an evening aperitif. Whether you're a keen cook or a home bartender, you'll get a lot of use out of a citrus juicer. 

Verve Culture's Artisan Small Citrus Juicer is sleek, chic, and easy to assemble. It can squeeze most of the juice out of small fruits and looks good doing it. With that said, I found a few crucial design flaws. 

The holes in the cone are on the larger side. They'll let through a lot of liquid, but they can't pick out the pips. The base is a little too short to support the juicer, which means it's likely to topple as you pull the lever. As for the lever, it doesn't pull back far enough to accommodate larger fruits, like oranges or grapefruits. 

To test the Verve Culture Citrus Juicer, I squeezed a lime, a lemon, and an orange. I also documented the unboxing, as well as the cleaning process, to monitor this juicer's performance from start to finish. I scoured the specifications and read countless customer reviews to give you the fullest possible picture of what it might be like to use this product. I found a beautiful piece of furniture that looks great in any kitchen, but not a strong candidate for the best juicers.

Verve Culture Citrus Juicer Specifications

Unboxing the Verve Culture Citrus Juicer

Encased in cardboard, the Verve Culture Citrus Juicer is packaged sustainably, but awkwardly. The outer box opens from the top, suggesting that you should pull the inner cardboard contents up and out. When I tried that, the cardboard gave way, and the citrus juicer crashed out onto my tabletop. Luckily, nothing broke: each aluminum part is solidly constructed and expertly joined. Still, next time, I'd open the box on its side. 

Inside the box, you'll find a recipe inspiration manual and history guide. I wouldn't throw these away, especially if you're new to juicing, or you're interested in this juicer's Mexican heritage. These booklets contain fun facts about the history of citrus juicing, tropical cocktail and mocktail recipes, as well as important information regarding cleaning and care.

Many of the best juicers are big, bulky appliances that monopolize counter space. The Verve Culture Citrus Juicer, by contrast, is slim and streamlined. Measuring 18 inches tall when fully extended, it should just about fit under standard cabinets. The silver aluminum base should complement any kitchen color palette, while the gold accents add a touch of retro charm. 

The Verve Culture Citrus Juicer comes mostly assembled. All you need to do is twist the screw on the side to loosen up the lever. Then, pop the cup and cone inside the circular holder, so that you can catch any pips and funnel the liquid into a glass. 

Test 1: Lime

To test this citrus juicer, I picked up some limes, some lemons, and some oranges from my local grocery store. I decided to start with the smallest fruit. First, I rolled the lime against my cutting board. This is a trick I picked up from a friend, who's an avid juicer: applying gentle pressure to your fruit helps to release the internal oils for a greater yield. I sliced my lime in two and placed one half on top of the cone. 

Next, I pulled the lever down. It was pretty stiff. I had to pull until the juicer buckled and threatened to crash onto the counter all over again. I tried holding the base of the juicer with one hand and squeezing with the other, but the juicer continued to tip. This instability isn't a dealbreaker, but it is irritating, especially since there's no way to screw the juicer into the work surface. I'd recommend picking up some adhesive mounting squares, like these ones from Target, to stick the juicer down.

As for the juice yield, there were mixed results. The Verve Culture Citrus Juicer did a great job of extracting liquid from the center of lime but left a lot of juice around the sides. I had to finish the squeezing by hand to get the most out of my lime. It wasn't hard, and it only took a few seconds, but it's just the sort of manual labour that the juicer is supposed to do. 

This little lime produced a small amount of juice: so small that I couldn't measure it accurately in my measuring jug, which starts at around 50 ml or 2 fl. oz. Instead, I calculating the juice yield by weighing each lime slice. The unsqueezed half weighed 1.6 oz., where the squeezed half weighed 1.1 oz., indicating a 0.5 oz. juice yield. That's not bad, when you think that much of a lime's mass is found in its skin. The juice itself was tart, with plenty of zing and no pips. It could form the base of a great vinaigrette. 

Test 2: Lemon

My lemon looked bigger and plumper than my lime, especially once I'd given it a roll, so I was feeling optimistic about the second test. I gave the Verve Culture cup and cone a quick rinse to get rid of any pips or lime flesh, then sliced my lemon in two and placed one half on top of the cone. I pulled the lever down and squeezed. 

The Verve Culture Citrus Juicer extracted slightly more lemon juice than it did lime. After around 30 seconds of squeezing, I had 0.5 oz. of liquid in my cup. Unfortunately, I also found a pip. It must have slipped through the holes in the cone, which are large enough to let juice through, and not small enough to keep seeds out.

I rinsed out the cup and cone, and set the second lemon slice on top of the cone. Again, I yielded 0.5 oz. of juice, but I found no fewer than five pips in my glass. These pips were smaller, but they still shouldn't have slipped through. Over-sized holes in the cone is the sort of design flaw that you just wouldn't find in the best juicer.

I also found that I had to keep adjusting the lemon on the cone, so that the Verve Culture Citrus Juicer could extract liquid from each side of the fruit. By the end, my fingers were so sticky that I might as well have squeezed the lemon by hand.

Test 3: Orange

Seeing as the juicer had performed best with smaller fruits, I wasn't feeling too confident going into the third and final orange test. My orange was on the larger side, and even when I sliced it in half, I struggled to set it on top of the cone. 

According to the Verve Culture website, their Citrus Juicer is ideal for lemons, limes, and clementines, though it should be able to squeeze larger fruits. I have my doubts: the lever doesn't pull back far enough. If the Citrus Juicer struggled to squeeze an orange, it would never be able to juice a grapefruit. 

In the end, I managed to squeeze two orange halves, which yielded 1.2 oz. and 1.6 oz. of juice respectively. That was by far the highest yield of any fruit on test, though I put that down to the size of the orange. No pips slipped through this time, but the top of the orange did break under the pressure of squeezing. That would be annoying if you wanted to use the zest or peel for flavor or garnish.

Since the Verve Culture Citrus Juicer is prone to tipping, some of the orange juice spilled onto my kitchen counter. However, the juice I managed to collect tasted fantastic. It was a real, bright orange, not like that yellowy stuff you get from the store, and fell just the right side of sweet versus acidic.

With that said, you'd have to squeeze a whole lot of oranges to make enough juice for the whole family. I'd say the Verve Culture Citrus Juicer is better suited to smaller fruits, and produces better juice for dressing than drinking.

Cleaning the Verve Culture Citrus Juicer

Each Verve Culture Citrus Juicer is cast in sand, grinded by hand, then polished to perfection by expert craftsmen. It's beautiful and durable − but it isn't dishwasher-safe. Such high temperatures would discolor the aluminum. 

Cleaning isn't impossible, but it will take a little more time and effort. For best results, you should rinse the cup and cone after each juicing session, and allow them to air dry before you use them again. As for the rest of the machine, all it needs is a once-over with a damp cloth. 

How does the Verve Culture Citrus Juicer rate online?

This Citrus Juicer has a whole host of five-star ratings on the Verve Culture site, though most only reference its sleek and chic appearance. 

You can find more balanced reviews when you shop on Amazon. Customers tend to agree that the Verve Culture Citrus Juicer is easy to clean, but harder to use, and decidedly unsuited to anything larger than a lime.

How does it compare to other juicers?

There's no denying that this juicer would make a stylish addition to your home bar. But when you're shopping for the best juicer, you shouldn't have to sacrifice function for form. The Verve Culture Citrus Juicer simply isn't as sturdy or as powerful as its competitors.

The best juicer for citrus is this little number from Smeg. Like the Verve Culture Citrus Juicer, it oozes retro charm, and comes in a range of cute colors with a stainless steel finish. Unlike the Verve Culture Citrus Juicer, this Smeg machine boasts impressive extraction power, and managed to make 2 oz. of juice from a single orange slice. Its components are even dishwasher-safe for quick and convenient cleaning.

Should you buy the Verve Culture Citrus Juicer?

The Verve Culture Citrus Juicer comes in two sizes: small and large. I tested the small size, which retails for $98. If you're only looking to squeeze small fruits and yield small quantities of juice to dress salads or liven up sauces and stews, it might be worth the money. It looks amazing, too, so if you want the finishing touch to a juice bar, this is perfect.

If you want to juice larger fruits, such grapefruits and oranges, and even lemons, then you'd be better off with a Smeg Citrus Juicer. It's a little more expensive than the Verve Culture, but it's far more effective, and just as easy on the eye. 

About this review – and our reviewer

Emilia is one of our eCommerce Editors here at H&G. She spends her days trying and testing some of the best small appliances on the market. She knows her centrifugal juicers from her cold presses, and she tested the Verve Culture Citrus Juicer in our dedicated test kitchen. She put the machine through its paces before sending it back to Verve Culture, who kindly lent it to her for this review. 

As someone who's borderline obsessed with the best air fryers (yes, I own two), I can confidently say they’re a game changer in the kitchen. But like all appliances, they need some TLC.

As a rule of thumb, most air fryers last between three to five years depending on how frequently you use them (and how well you take care of them). Regular cleaning and maintenance can make your air fryer last longer, but when red flags start popping up, it’s time to call it quits.

Ignoring the signs of a failing air fryer can lead to undercooked food, longer cooking times, and even potential safety hazards – trust me, toxicity in your food is not something you want to gamble on.

So, how do you know it’s time to part ways with your trusty air fryer? Here’s how to recognize the warning signs.

Air fryer shopping advice

If you do need to upgrade, I've also rounded up our expert-tested air fryers which are affordable prices in the Black Friday air fryer sales. These are the best options for reliable, durable replacements – suitable for your specific kitchen needs and bound to stand the test of time.

Signs it's time to replace your air fryer

I’ve chatted with appliance experts, and they all agree – these are the top signs to watch for when deciding if it’s time to replace your air fryer. You can check out our guide for the best air fryers if you want guidance for an upgrade.

1. Decreased Performance

If your once-crispy fries are now coming out pale or unevenly cooked, your air fryer might be losing its power. Air fryers are designed to circulate hot air rapidly, and if the air circulation or heating element is compromised, it’s time to start considering a replacement.

Sarah Johnson, kitchen appliance expert at Big Air Fryers explains, 'If you notice that your air fryer takes significantly longer to cook your food or doesn't produce the same crispiness it used to, it may be a sign of declining heating performance. This reduced efficiency can result from a variety of factors, including worn-out heating elements or a malfunctioning fan.'

2. Overheating

Dim Nikov, cookbook author and the editor of Home Cook World explains: 'If you find your air fryer shuts off often, it’s most likely because it’s overheating. If this is happening and you find there are no obvious reasons for it, it could be a malfunction in the machine.'

'Sometimes overheating happens because the heating coils are dirty, or the basket is too full' says Dim. 'Try to cook food in smaller batches to increase ventilation.'

If you find this doesn’t work, you should replace the machine. It's not safe to use an air fryer that overheats often, especially if it means your meat is ending up under-cooked or burnt to a crisp.

3. Damaged Non-Stick Coating

Many air fryer baskets are coated with Teflon – a non-stick lining for a quick, easy cleanup. However, if you notice chips, scratches, or peeling in the coating of your air fryer basket, it's not something to ignore. It's time to get a new air fryer.

It’s more than just a nuisance – it can actually be a health risk. Pieces of the coating can get into your food, making it unsafe to eat. You might prefer to invest in one of the best non-toxic air fryers, made from stainless steel or ceramic materials that stay intact and don't contain potentially harmful chemicals.

4. Unpleasant smells

While a little bit of a cooking smell is normal, a strong burning odor is a red flag. Matt Kerr, electrical engineer and co-founder of Appliance Geeked explains, 'Oil and food debris build-up can interfere with the air fryer's performance.' There could be food particles trapped in hard-to-clean areas, getting burnt and causing unsavory tastes.

Before replacing your air fryer, you could try using vinegar to shift baked-on grease on your air fryer. We recommend using this OXO Good Grips deep clean brush set, from Amazon, and this KH-7 decrease spray, from Walmart. If cleaning doesn’t solve the problem, your air fryer might have internal damage or overheating issues.

5. Strange noises

'While air fryers do make some noise while they are running, excessive or unexpected noise might be concerning. If your air fryer is making more noise than normal, the fan or motor may be damaged,' explains Matt Kerr, electrical engineer.

In such cases, the air fryer may not be cooking consistently or providing optimum air circulation. The Cosori 5-Qt Air Fryer could be a good upgrade, we were amazed by the AirWhisper technology. Your kitchen will be near-silent when this machine is running.

6. Unresponsive controls

One of the more subtle signs an air fryer needs replacing is a loss of functionality. 'If your air fryer has a temperamental timer, buttons that don't respond, or a malfunctioning display, it can be frustrating and unreliable,' says Gabrielle Yap from Carnivore Style.

Air frying should be a breeze, and if your air fryer isn't cooperating, it's probably time for an upgrade.

7. Smoke, sparks or safety hazards

If you notice signs of electrical hazards, immediately stop using your air fryer and consider a new one.

Gabrielle Yap says, 'If you notice sparks, smoke, or any electrical issues, unplug your air fryer immediately. Safety should always come first in the kitchen, and these signs may signal an impending breakdown.'

Cooking with an unreliable appliance can be a fire hazard and a recipe for disaster.

8. Outdated features

'As technology advances, newer air fryer models are updated with innovative features that can greatly enhance your cooking experience,' says air fryer expert, Sarah Johnson.

You might also find that your air fryer is simply taking up too much space, and you want to upgrade to a modern, space-saving design. Or, you might prefer to speed up the cleaning with a non-toxic, dishwasher safe basket.

As H&G's kitchen appliances editor, I'm testing the latest and greatest models all the time. My favorite air fryers include Wi-Fi connectivity, smart presets, and double-stacked levels.

If any of these issues sound familiar, don’t wait too long to upgrade. You’ll notice a big difference in the quality of your meals and the efficiency of your cooking process with a newer, more reliable machine. Plus, the latest models often come with added features that make them even more versatile than the older versions. So if your air fryer is showing its age, take it as an opportunity to treat yourself to a new one – you won’t regret it!

Best known for their pretty, premium products, Smeg makes some of my favorite kitchen appliances. Their beautiful personal blender is no exception. Slim and stylish, it's almost everything that a single-serve blender should be.

A good blender is a kitchen essential. If it's well-designed, it will slot effortlessly into your everyday life. You'll use it when you wake up in the morning for your smoothie bowl, serve-up soup at lunch, and whizz up hummus for an appetizer in the evening.

I used the Smeg personal blender in my home for a month. Anyone who knows me will know that I blend almost anything. Beetroot? Blend it. Carrots? Blend them. Coffee smoothies? Blend them (trust me). You can make some incredible things with a small appliance.

I loved using this Smeg personal blender. It's a durable, daily appliance which is one of the best single serve blenders on the market. If you have a small apartment and money to spend on your blending routine, it's a good choice, but it's expensive and not without its quirks. 

Should you buy it?

If you're all about style and capacity conscious, this is the blender for you. I fell in love with its looks, but the way it whips up a pretty good smoothie and delicious soup in seconds has made it irreplaceable in my kitchen. It's expensive and it isn't cordless like some other models, but I love it nonetheless. If you have other Smeg appliances, this will complete your kitchen look.

Who would it suit?

Smeg always suits a luxury kitchen. Their premium products deliver on quality and style. If you have a small and chic kitchen, this lightweight blender is perfect. It's easy to store and light enough to lift up onto high shelves without putting a back or shoulder out.

The portable bottles make this an on-the-go essential. If you make smoothies, shakes, soups, and dips on the regular, you'll find the versatile design endlessly useful. The two speed settings don't sound like much, but they're all you need for daily blending tasks.

Specifications

Unboxing

Unboxing this told me everything I needed to know about the beautiful Smeg blender. The box was lightweight and I was pleased to find it contained completely recyclable packaging. Each component was wrapped in paper bags, keeping all the parts clean and scratch-free without any single-use materials.

This comes with two bottles, made from Tritan Renew Plastic. This means that they're made from recycled plastic. Looking at them, you wouldn't guess it; they're clear and as high-quality as plastic can get.

The bottles double-up as a blending vessel, so, once you've used them to whizz up a smoothie, you can screw on the lid (provided) and take your drink with you on the go. Each bottle is even engraved with Smeg logos. It's a small touch, but it's these little extras that make a product an extra-special essential.

What is it like to use?

Blenders are all about speed. Super-fast smoothies, swift soups, and express shakes are easy work for the Smeg personal blender. Not only is it perfect practically, it looks gorgeous on my countertops. I had it on display, just so that I could keep looking at it. That's how I know this is something special.

To make sure that the Smeg was technically perfect, I put it through its paces. Over the course of a month, I made over 40 different smoothies, five different soups, and countless servings of hummus. I used tough foods, fibrous roots, and frozen fruits, so that I could find the talents and limits of this blender.

Test 1: Smoothie

I judge a blender on its smoothies. They're a quick and easy way to hit your nutrition goals, but if it's lumpy and poorly blended, it can be hard to stomach. I first tested the Smeg personal blender on my go-to vanilla blueberry shake recipe. This has oats and frozen blueberries in, both of which have tough skins to break up. It also has a scoop of protein powder which, if poorly blended, will be gritty, or worse, lumpy. 

I added two bananas, a handful of frozen blueberries, a scoop of vanilla protein, two tablespoons of oats, and a splash of oat milk to the bottle. I whizzed up these ingredients on the fastest speed, for a minute, and watched as all the ingredients break down. 

The blender was a little noisy (I recorded 106 dBA, which you'd need to shout to be heard above), but it didn't need to run for long. The top got a little warm after I'd blended a few different smoothies, one after the other, but it's not often that you would do this your day-to-day. 

After a minute, I lifted the bottle off because some of my protein powder had stuck to the side. I put the lid onto the blender and gave it a good shake. With a few seconds more blending, the protein powder had seamlessly integrated into my drink. This isn't really a fault with the Smeg, because most blenders find it tough to get through protein powder without a little help. When I find a good one, you'll know about it.

Test 2: Soup

Some blenders can handle hot ingredients, but they are expensive and industrial. The Smeg blender isn't suitable for hot ingredients, but don't let that stop you from making it your soup sous chef. 

If you make time to prep and cool ingredients you can use it to make soup. This takes more planning time, but a homemade soup is hard to beat. I wanted to test the Smeg blender on tough fibrous vegetables, like spinach and ginger, so I made a 'Souper Green' recipe.

I blended a cup of peas, a cup of water, two cups of spinach, half a courgette, and, a carrot with a handful of mint, knob of ginger, and a teaspoon of garlic paste. When I set these in front of the blender, it looked like it didn't stand a chance at getting through all my vegetables, but, magically, it did. 

I used the fastest speed setting, number two, for two minutes and my soup was close to perfect. It was thicker than a store-bought carton and there were some small bits of spinach. I couldn't see the spinach, but when I bit down on the soup, the spinach created a slight crunch. The next time I made this soup, I split the ingredients into two batches and my soup was much smoother. When I tried this with a more simple tomato soup, it was flawless.

The whole time this was blending, I was holding it down, but it doesn't need to be. I read reviews where other people hadn't noticed this feature and stood by their blender the whole time, so don't let that be you. If you lock the bottle down, you can take your hands off and walk away from the blender, perfect if you want it to run for a little longer.

Test 3: Hummus

Hummus is an excellent test of a blender's capacity, because chickpeas are large and have skins. Plus, garlic needs to be well integrated in hummus or you'll get intense chunks that will linger on your tongue for days.

I poured a can of chickpeas, one tablespoon of lemon juice, a teaspoon of cumin, pinch of salt, and dessertspoon of tahini into the bottle. When I held it down to blend I spotted that the chickpeas nearest the blade whipped up into a velvety paste. Every minute, for three minutes, I lifted the bottle, gave it a shake and blended the hummus again. If I didn't remove the bottle at intervals, the chickpeas would never break down, but it isn't much trouble.

I was surprised at how thick and delicious this hummus was. I made it for some friends and they couldn't tell the difference between store bought texture and my homemade one (obviously it tasted better too).

Test 4: Crushed ice

Ice is potentially the toughest test for any blender. The Smeg blender didn't struggle with frozen fruit, so I was fairly confident that it would crush ice without any issues. I filled this just over half way with large ice cubes and blended it on second speed. It blended a small bowl of crushed ice, but struggled to get through all of the cubes. The crushed ice that I did get was a really fine texture, although it melted a little around the blade, forming an almost solid crushed ice block. The trick for crushed ice in this blender is using small batches. This is a little annoying, because it's time consuming having to empty and re-fill the bottle, but it's worth it.

Cleaning, storage, and maintenance

The beauty of a simple, single-serve blender is in the cleaning as much as in the blending. This comes into two parts, the bottle and the blender, which means that washing up takes seconds. Even better, if you want to take your smoothie on the go, the bottle has a lid with a handle, so it becomes a useful everyday accessory which you can take with you to the gym, to work, or on a walk, saving time and washing up. The Smeg blender bottles are $60 at QVC if you want to invest in more, but that's very expensive for a plastic bottle. 

As I said, I kept my blender on the countertop. It's small, sleek, and stylish, so I didn't mind having it on display. It has useful cord storage underneath the motor and the base is lightweight, so if you needed to pack it into a small space, you could. I tried lifting it onto a high shelf and it was easy. This is only 4 lbs, so it's no heavier than a flour or sugar bag.

How does it rate online?

The Smeg blender averages 4.9 stars on Google reviews, which says a lot about this personal blender. It's generally popular amongst reviewers and customers alike. Most people complemented the style, of course, and found that it cuts through fruit and vegetables expertly. Most people made use of the bottle, keeping it in the refrigerator door if they'd blended in advance, or taking it it with them on a walk.

Where the blender receives the most critique is on jobs where there's less liquid, especially with ice. Most people found the constant reloading tedious and frustrating, especially because this is a relatively expensive blender, with expensive accessories too. If you're shopping on a budget, this isn't the one for you.

How does it compare?

In our guide to the best blenders on the market this is probably most similar to the the Beast Blender. This has all the aesthetic qualities of the Smeg blender, so it's the closest style rival for the Smeg appliance. It also comes with a portable converter, saving on washing up. 

The Beast Blender is still better for a couple reasons. First, it's much stronger when it comes to ice crushing. You don't need to add little batches and you can just blend everything at once.

The smoothie and soup functions were comparable, so if that's all you will use the blender for, the deciding factor will be aesthetics. The only extra that the Beast offers a hydration system; it can infuse water and make iced teas.

If I was given a choice between the two, I would genuinely choose the Smeg blender. The blending vessel is easier to clean (the ribs in the Beast make it hard to feel like you've done a thorough job). I don't crush ice much and personally prefer the retro style. I own lots of Smeg kitchen appliances and I'm a fan of co-ordination too.

How we test

At Homes & Gardens we pride ourselves on testing every appliance we recommend to you. I tested this blender, in my home, for over a month. I made smoothies, shakes, dips, soups, and ice cones every week, so that I could pick up the useful features and flaws in this blender. That way, if you choose to use one in your home, you won't have any nasty surprises. If you'd like to find out more, you can read all about how we test blenders on our dedicated page.

There’s nothing more satisfying than churning your own homemade ice cream. If you can do it in style, even better. If you can do it in under ten minutes, you’re probably using the Smeg Ice Cream Maker Bowl Attachment. 

Before I give this ice cream maker its well deserved praise, I would like to clarify something. This is a bowl attachment, so only works if you already own the Smeg stand mixer. As long as you do, we can get into the ice cream details. If you don't, you'll have to buy the stand mixer to use this and that's a lot of money that you could spend one of my other, favorite ice cream makers.

This is also small, so you’ll only ever make a pint of ice cream in one go. If you’re ice cream obsessed like me, this can be helpful for portion control. Left to my own devices, I'd have a stand freezer to rival commercial ice cream stores.

Simple, stylish, and so very 'Smeg', here’s everything you need to know about their ice cream maker attachment.

Specifications

Unboxing

Smeg has a reputation for using lots of polystyrene and plastic packaging. This isn’t the best example of environmentally friendly packaging, but it’s not bad. I'd like to see them use less polystyrene in the future.

You will need to chill the bowl attachment 18 hours in advance of churning. In instances like this, I would recommend storing the bowl in your freezer all of the time, so that you're never caught out. This is quite shallow and small, so if you're going to make room for a frozen bowl attachment, you should be able to make room for this one. My top tip – and one I use at home – is to put bags of frozen food inside it.

Who would it suit?

The biggest distinguishing factor for this Smeg ice cream maker is whether  or not you already own the Smeg 1950s stand mixer. If you don't have one, or haven’t set aside $400 dollars to buy one of these already, you won’t get any use out of this bowl attachment. 

If you already own a Smeg stand mixer and want to make pint-sized batches of ice cream, this is a great investment. The bowl is smaller than most other frozen bowls, so it’s quicker too. In short, if you're after small amounts of ice cream in under ten minutes, this is the one for you.

What is it like to use?

After chilling your bowl for 18 hours, you’re almost good to go. There’s an attachment that you need to place on the tilt head, which is magnetic, so you'll know when it's in place. Next, you need to place your frozen bowl into place. Handing it with cold hands can get painfully chilly, but you shouldn't have to do it for long.

With your frozen bowl into place, insert the churning attachment, and lower the head of the stand mixer. It will slot into place perfectly. However, these plastic attachments feel a little cheap and flimsy. They can get the job done, but I used them with a lot of caution.

Before adding any mixture to your frozen bowl start churning on a low setting. If you wait until your mixture is in, there’s a risk that it will freeze and break the attachment when it tries to move.

Test 1: Ice Cream

I have a standard vanilla ice cream recipe, which I used for all the ice cream makers that I tested. I whisked one cup of whole milk with ¾ cup of granulated sugar. Once dissolved, I added two cups of heavy cream and two teaspoons of vanilla paste. This mix needs to be around 40 degrees Fahrenheit, refrigerator temperature, before adding it to the bowl. 

When it was ready, I slowly poured it into the churning bowl and set my timer for 15 minutes. I was in the same room as the ice cream maker the whole time, but at around seven minutes, the sound changed pitch. It was lower and the whirring was slower. That can only mean that the ice cream is thick. By eight minutes, my ice cream looked ready to eat. It was smooth and creamy, but not as cold as other ice creams that I tested. That might sound strange, but it tasted more like soft serve than a refreshing, hard ice cream.

Vegan Ice Cream

I use the same recipe for vegan ice cream as I do for dairy. I just substitute vegan alternatives like oat milk and vegan cream into the recipe. This took a couple of minutes longer than the dairy ice cream, but in just over 10 minutes, I had made some impressive vegan ice cream. It melted really quickly and when I put it in my bowl, within a couple of minutes, the cream was beginning to turn to a liquid. I would recommend putting it in the freezer for 20 minutes and then taking it out to scoop and enjoy.

Frozen Yoghurt

This is one of the easiest tests of any ice cream maker. I emptied a pot of Greek style yoghurt into the frozen bowl attachment and in 11 minutes, I had a thick frozen yogurt. This is the Smeg's greatest success. It made incredible frozen yogurt. It wasn't too icy or crystallised. The texture was even better than the ice cream.

Sorbet

Normally I would test ice cream makers with raspberry sorbet, but I had lots of lemons that needed using in my refrigerator. I heated the juice of four lemons with one cup of water and 12 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Once everything had dissolved, I stored this in the refrigerator overnight. 

I poured my sorbet mix into the frozen bowl attachment and, again, in just over ten minutes, my sorbet was thicker than slushy. It wasn't perfect, but by 15 minutes, I was pleased with the texture. It was a little grainy and you can see in the above image that some of the water froze to the side. Given that this is a small ice cream maker, you can't really afford to lose any of your frozen mixture, so I spent a while chipping it off, which didn't end up looking great.

If you'll be experimenting with frozen desserts that have a higher water content, frozen bowl attachments like this won't work well. You'll need the Ninja Creami or Cuisinart ice cream makers.

Cleaning, Storage, and Maintenance

As I mentioned earlier, this is compact and easy to store. I'd recommend always keeping it in your freezer, so that you're never caught out. Waiting 18 hours for ice cream isn't worth it. Luckily, this is one of the smallest freezer bowl ice cream makers on the market.

It's easy to clean. You can't put it in the dishwasher, but it's really only the bowl and churning attachment that need to be washed. Use warm soapy water and make sure that the bowl is fully dry before replacing it in the freezer.

How does it rate online?

Amongst Smeg stand mixer owners, this is a really popular attachment. Reviewers and customers alike praised it for it s size and speed. Lots of people were able to make tasty, light frozen desserts in a small about of time. 

People felt that the price tag was a little too high and that it wasn't as intuitive as other ice cream makers, but I think those people were beginners all round. This isn't a complex ice cream maker attachment and it's really easy to use.

How does it compare?

KitchenAid also make incredible stand mixers and a frozen bowl attachment. In a taste test, the KitchenAid would win. It was an all-round success and didn't struggle with the same water separation as the Smeg. It's nice to look at too.

However, the KitchenAid ice cream maker was bigger and slower. It's harder to store and, if you don't need to make big batches of ice cream, you won't need a bowl that big. The Smeg still did a really good job. 

If you want to go for an even smaller frozen bowl attachment, the ZOKU ice cream maker makes single-servings. It's extremely rustic and you make your ice cream without the help of a motor. It's cheaper than the Smeg and even easier to store, but your ice cream won't taste as good.

Should you buy it?

If you own a Smeg stand mixer, I wouldn't hesitate to buy this. For the cost of an ice cream maker $100 is relatively cheap. It looks good and will be easy to store. If you take into account the fact that this makes great ice cream, it's an easy yes.

However, if you don't own the stand mixer, there are other options that will cost you less money than the stand mixer and bowl attachment. They'll make you better, more versatile frozen desserts too.

How We Test

There's a clear, step-by-step process in how we test all of our appliances. All of our experts are well-established product testers, bringing with them the expertise needed to discern whether these are worthy investments for your home. 

For ice cream makers, we researched the best products on the market. We wanted to look for appliances that were good value for money with exceptional results. We took these to our test kitchen and, over the course of a few days, tested these on ice cream, non-dairy ice cream, sorbet, and frozen yogurt. We made notes on the whole process from unboxing to cleaning up to make sure that we didn’t miss a thing. All of these ice cream makers were tested alongside each other, so we could make direct comparisons between them and their results. 

Once you've seen the Gaggia Classic Pro, you'll start to notice it everywhere. Not only does it appear in the film House of Gucci, but it's probably the coffee machine that sits in many of your local cafes too. The stand-out style appeals to lots of people. If you're one of them, you'll want to know if it's more than just a pretty face.

I've tested over seventy coffee makers, and I had some of the most fun with the Gaggia. Semi-automatic machines don't come with the scaffolding of automatic machines, so you need to tune into your Gaggia to make good coffee. It is really hard if you're not an expert, but worth persevering with.

The Gaggia costs under $500, so it's a great price, but there are plenty of other decent automatic machines that are featured on our best espresso machines roundup. If you're looking for something that will make great coffee with minimal faff, make sure you've evaluated your options first.

Specifications

Unboxing

The Gaggia arrived almost fully assembled. However, we always keep an eye out for eco-friendly packaging, and this wasn't very green. It comes with lots of polystyrene and plastic, which is hard to recycle.

To get the machine ready to work, you need to fill the reservoir. This is at the back of the machine and you can't remove it, so you need to fill a jug with water and pour it into the top and back of the Gaggia. Please be careful though, because the plug for the Gaggia is next to the reservoir. I accidentally got a little pour-happy and some of the water spilled over the plug. This is a kettle plug, so it's safe and nothing bad happened, but I can't imagine that you should make a habit of it.

On the countertop, the yellow model that Gaggia sent me looked great. It's bright and retro and I instantly warmed to it. As a style piece, it's fun. As it's quite big and heavy, it needs to be on a countertop, but when it looks like the Gaggia, I'd be happy to have it on show.

Who would it suit?

To use the Gaggia, you need to have a balance of technical coffee knowledge and a desire for simplicity. Since the Gaggia doesn't have any sensors or timers, you need to watch your coffee shot as it's pulled. When you think it's done, you manually stop the machine. This takes some expertise since it's really easy to misjudge when your coffee is ready.

I would imagine that the kind of person who can judge a coffee shot by eye is the kind of barista who wants an infuse setting, or some extra pressure and humidity sensors, like you might find in Breville's Barista Express. I think some people fit Gaggia's niche intersection category, but I'm not sure that it's a big market.

On the other hand, if you just want a retro espresso machine, that will add some color and design to your kitchen, this is pretty perfect. It's all metal, so feels really durable, which is a surprise given that it's under $500. So, it wins a point for style and a point for price. It's not a machine for beginners, but it might suit baristas with tight budgets.

What is it like to use?

Before you make any coffee, make sure to flush out the brew group. This is really easy because there are only three buttons on the machine: on and off; coffee; and water. Hold the coffee one down and hot water will come out. It's as simple as that.

It's also worth noting that this machine doesn't have a grinder. We have a roundup of the best coffee grinders on the market and I would recommend that you invest in one. Freshly ground coffee tastes much better than pre-ground coffee. Before you start using the Gaggia, make sure that you have your ground coffee ready.

Test 1: Espresso

The first, most basic test for any coffee maker is an espresso. Gaggia provides a portafilter, tamp, and coffee scoop so that you can get started brewing a coffee straight away. 

The average weight of coffee in the coffee scoop is 20 grams. An ideal espresso would be 18 grams, so it's worth using some coffee scales, like these from Walmart, to measure your coffee. This will help your espressos taste consistent.

To pull a shot, I locked my portafilter into place. Normally, I keep a hand on the top of the espresso machine when I lock my portafilter into place. However, the Gaggia is sturdy enough to hold its own, so I could focus on ensuring that the portafilter was really secure.

Once in place, I pressed the coffee button on the Gaggia and watched my coffee brew into the cup. It didn't splash or splatter and came out at 196 degrees Fahrenheit, which is on the hot side for an espresso, but it's fine. 

You'll need to watch the color of your coffee carefully. After around 15 seconds, you'll notice the machine starts pouring a liquid that looks less like hazelnut brown and more milky. This is when all the tasty oils have been extracted from your grounds, so you should stop the machine. The more you use the Gaggia, the better you will become at judging when this is done. 

Machines like the Casabrews espresso machine, which is cheaper than the Gaggia, vary more in how long they take to pull an espresso shot. I found the Casabrews took 45 seconds for a double shot, so it's important that you don't just use a timer to pull your espresso, you will also want to judge with your eyes.

Overall, my espresso tasted good. It was hot, but not burnt, and the coffee oils were well extracted. It was a little bitter, so I think I was on the edge of over-extraction. This is easily solved: I just stopped it earlier the next time I made an espresso. If I was served it in a café, I wouldn't complain.

Test 2: Americano

Adding water to the espresso to make an Americano is simple. I pressed the switch which controls steam and water and filled my cup with the steam wand. The water was hot, but it didn't burn my espresso. The pressure of the water from the steam wand wasn't too high either. Some machines splash your espresso up the sides of the cup, but this was smooth.

My Americano was better than the espresso. I stopped the machine at the perfect point, so my cup of coffee was actually nicely balanced and aromatic. 

As a barista, it didn't take me long to adjust to the Gaggia. However, as it's $500, I would imagine that a lot of beginners would buy the Gaggia. It could be hard work to work out how to make a good Americano on a machine like the Gaggia, because you have to be familiar with looks and taste. You'd waste a lot of coffee in the process.

Test 3: Cappuccino

I had mastered the art of pulling espressos by this stage, so making a cappuccino was pretty straightforward. The steam wand has 180 degrees of movement, so I could move it from side to side. It wasn't the luxurious 360 degrees of the Breville Barista Pro, but Breville's Barista Pro is $300 more expensive, so I would expect it to have some extra features.

Gaggia provides a stainless steel milk jug, which is big enough to froth milk for two cups of coffee. Again, you'll need to be proficient in steaming milk to make a smooth glossy texture, but this is the case for most espresso machines - unless you use the Breville Bambino Plus or De'Longhi All In One.

As I have experience as a barista, I'm comfortable frothing milk. I angled my jug so I could hear the ticking noise of air being drawn into my milk. I held the side of my jug and waited until it was too hot to touch. I then flipped the switch on the Gaggia – which required some juggling of the milk jug – and gave the steam wand a wipe and clean.

Both my oat and dairy milks were good. They were glossy and tightly textured with just the right amount of froth. Again, this is a skill that you would need to practice with the Gaggia, but it's not a limiting factor of the machine.

Cleaning, Storage, and Maintenance

Like most espresso machines, this is low maintenance. I slid out the drip tray to clean, which was a straightforward process. You should do this after each time that you use your espresso machine. The steam wand needed cleaning after each use, but again, this is pretty standard. The reservoir is harder to remove, so I would recommend using it until it's fully empty. Then you can slide the reservoir out through the drip tray, but it will take some force.

I would recommend running cleaning cycles on the machine every month. The Classic Pro won't notify you when it needs cleaning, but if you do it once a month, you should be fine. As for aesthetic cleaning, I would recommend wiping the machine with a microfiber cloth, like these from Walmart. There's very little stainless steel on this machine, especially compared to other models, so it's lower maintenance. A superficial wipe after each use will be more than enough to keep it looking nice.

How does it rate online?

Talk around the Gaggia Classic Pro is generally really positive. I spotted quite a few baristas who used this because they were looking for a low-cost and stylish option. Lots of people who use it take some time to learn about coffee, adjust to the machine, or adjust the actual mechanics of the machine themselves. If you're an expert, looking to make modifications, this is the machine for you.

At $500, it's an affordable espresso machine, but there are other ones like the De'Longhi All In One and Breville Bambino Plus at a similar price point. These two are much easier to use and they're cheaper. If you're a beginner, I strongly recommend Breville or De'Longhi, but if you're advanced or keen to get really technical with coffee, you'll have fun with the Gaggia.

How does it compare?

From my understanding and time testing, the Gaggia is popular for two reasons: style and cost.

Breville's Bambino Plus is a stylish, stainless steel machine. It's quieter than the Gaggia, makes much better foam, and has pre-infusion technology which makes a smoother, sweeter espresso. It's also much smaller and easier to use. The style is different, but if I was judging the two on looks, I would choose the Bambino.

If you insist on retro aesthetics, you would be comparing the Gaggia to the Smeg espresso machine, which is more expensive than the Gaggia. I would argue that the Smeg looks better and is smaller, so I would choose it over the Gaggia. Smeg's only downfall is that the brew head is low, so it can only fit smaller cups underneath it.

I recently wrote an article on the best espresso machine for beginners. The most simple machine for beginners was the De'Longhi All-In-One Combination Coffee Machine. It costs $300, nearly $200 less than the Gaggia. It can make an espresso, and froth milk automatically, and makes drip coffee too. I would argue that it's more intuitive to use, more attractive, and also quieter than the Gaggia.

Should you buy it?

There is an argument for some people to buy the Gaggia. If you have the coffee geekery that would help you to make perfect espressos and glossy milk, but not the budget for a Breville Barista Pro, I wouldn't blame you for buying the Gaggia. They've been making espresso machines for nearly a hundred years, so they must be doing something right.

However, I don't think it's well-suited to beginners. Ironically, the simple controls make this harder to use. It is really stylish, but so is the Breville Bambino Plus and the De'Longhi All In One Combination Coffee Maker. If you are confident in your coffee skills, you'll enjoy the Gaggia. If you're a beginner, I'd recommend looking at automatic espresso machines rather than semi-automatic models.

How We Test

We consider espresso machines to be very serious business. We will only recommend the machines that we can personally vouch for, no money or gifts can convince us otherwise. Our team of experts are always on the look-out for the best coffee makers and espresso machines on the market. 

When we've seen machines with great credentials, we take them to our dedicated test kitchen. Here, we make notes on the whole experience of using the espresso machine, from unboxing up to cleaning. We replicate the home environment, making notes on how they sit on the countertop, how loud they are, and how user-friendly the interface is. More importantly, we taste test. Starting with espressos, through all the machine's capabilities, we want to know what's special about every espresso machine. If there isn't anything worth shouting about, we won't.

You can find out more about how we test coffee makers on our dedicated page.

Kenwood is a popular brand in the UK, but not so much in the US. Our industry is normally dominated by other market leaders, but the Kenwood XL Titanium might be their first one to become popular across the sea.

Known for their build quality, Kenwood machines are built to last. This model comes with a ten-year warranty, but I've heard of people having theirs for almost a lifetime. This beast of a stand mixer is built for industrial amounts of cakes, bakes, and bread.

The Titanium Chef XL has a powerful motor, a deep mixing bowl, and basic, but effective attachments. I took it to our test kitchen where I used it to make vanilla sponge cakes, bread, and whipped cream. 

As expected, the Titanium Chef XL is fantastic. It's also heavy and not without its quirks, but if you're looking for heavy-duty performance, look no further.

Specifications

Unboxing

A big stand mixer requires a big box. Kenwood didn't hold back with this one. I struggled to lift it from the floor to the countertop and then had to battle with the box to drag the stand mixer out. 

Once it was on the surface, I noticed that most of the bulk was made of plastic bags and polystyrene blocks. I think it's a shame to use non-recyclable packaging when there are plenty of other options on the market, but at least it keeps the Titanium Chef XL well-protected. 

Overlooking the packaging, this is a beautiful stand mixer. It's big, so you'll need lots of room under your cupboards, and it clearly means mixing business. This comes with three attachments: a K-beater, for mixing cakes, batters, meat, and doughs; a dough hook; and a steel whisk. It also comes with a plastic shield, which you can use if you don't want to splatter liquid or clouds of flour on your countertop. 

Kenwood doesn't include any extra frills or fuss, even the instructions are basic pictures. I like that. This is a straightforward machine, so it's easy to get started straight away.

Who would it suit?

This boxy stand style looks simultaneously industrial and smart. It's big and beautiful, with extra emphasis on the big. Only buy the Titanium Chef XL if you have deep countertops and lots of space under your cupboards. Even the mixing bowl is deep, so if you make party-sized portions, you're in the perfect company.

Amateur bakers probably don't need the size or range of speed settings that this offers. So, if you don't need this capacity, you can save money and space by investing in other models. Kenwood uses XL and chef in the name for a reason. They are looking for seasoned bakers who mass cater.

What is it like to use?

Aside from rinsing the attachments, the Titanium XL arrived all set up and ready to go. You have to pull a button at the back to tilt the head back and I didn't want to apply too much force the first time I used it, but you have to be firm, otherwise, it won't move. 

The head is also on a spring, so unlike KitchenAids, it'll almost bounce back down unless you hold it. This caught me off guard a couple of times and I thought the head was falling down. In fact, that's just how this stand mixer holds itself.

Test 1: Vanilla Sponge Cake

The first test of any good stand mixer is cake mixture. Following the all-in-one method, I combined butter, flour, sugar, vanilla, and eggs in my bowl. I used the K-beater attachment and turned the smooth dial to the lowest setting. You won't feel any resistance from the dial; it's like a radio volume button, you just twist it and the machine reacts. This means there's very little distinction between speed settings, so you'll need to watch how much you twist it.

When beating most mixers will knock some flour up the sides, so I often have to get my spatula involved. However, the Titanium XL was really neat and contained with its beating. The bowl is deep, so the steep sides don't hold any flour and the stand doesn't wobble much either.

After I baked the sponge mixture, it came out light, buttery, and golden brown. There were no unmixed pockets of flat tops. It was perfect, even if I do say so myself.

Test 2: Whipped Cream

The next test is to check how the stand mixer whips up a liquid. I switched attachments and poured in a carton of heavy cream. Integrated into the stand mixer, you'll see some scales. These will weigh, only when the machine is on, and then when you start mixing, they'll turn into a timer. If you bake by eye or already own scales, this isn't important, but when you're under time pressure, it's really easy having these appliances all in one place.

I tried whipping cream on the fastest setting, but within 30 seconds - I consulted the integrated timer - I could see that it was way too fast. The cream was quickly becoming over-whipped and crumbly rather than forming smooth, stiff peaks.

I changed the setting down so that it was on one of the slowest and added a little milk. Within a couple of minutes, it was back to perfection. It's good to know that this can do all speeds, but I think it is a bit too fast for cream. 

Test 3: Bread Dough

Normally, I like to knead my bread by hand. It's a personal quirk, which can be a killer when you want to make big batches of dough. Having a dough hook with your stand mixer can be a game changer in these instances.

To make bread in a stand mixer, I placed my dry ingredients in the bowl and slowly poured in the water with the dough hook rotating on a low setting. Within four minutes, my dough wasn't sticking to the sides, had formed a ball, and looked very elastic. 

I lifted the head to get my dough out. The stand mixer head bounced back down because it was spring-loaded, so I struggled to lift the dough out in one piece. Eventually, I had to break the dough into sections and bring it out in parts. It's not the most elegant finish, but the dough itself was impressive. I gave it a quick knead by hand so that I could feel the texture for myself. It was firm, smooth, and, quite honestly, a dream to knead.

The proof was in the baking though. When I took my loaf out of the oven, it had a lovely open structure without any cracks or close texture that would indicate the dough had been overworked.

Cleaning, Storage, and Maintenance

Even though the bowl and attachments are dishwasher safe, I like to clean these things by hand. The bowl is deep, so if you have a compact dishwasher, I think you'll need to wash it by hand anyway.

These were easy to clean, but you need to be meticulous; the stainless steel shows every fingerprint, so when I placed the bowl back on the stand, the outside somehow looked messier. 

I'd recommend that you leave the stand mixer on the side. It looks nice enough, but my reasoning is really that this is too heavy to comfortably move. That's why I would only recommend this if you have room in your kitchen, otherwise, it will take up a lot of valuable space.

How does it rate online?

Celebrated online, most of the Kenwood Chef XL Titanium reviews are five-star. Lots of people buy it for its power. It's a heavy-duty stand mixer, so most of the users were making triple quantities of standard mixtures. They all felt that it was a well-made machine, which packed a lot of power. Lots of people found the LED bowl light, which shows you what's in the bowl really useful too.

The downside of this, as I found as well, is the size. People felt that this was an expensive stand mixer, but that's compared to smaller models. It's worth it if you need the size, but if you don't it's a waste. 

Some people noticed that their motor got hot when they used it for a long time, especially at high speeds or with dough, so be cautious. Other users didn't like the industrial and professional look of the Titanium Chef. They preferred KitchenAid and Smeg mixer styles.

How does it compare?

The Kenwood Chef Titanium Stand Mixer, on Amazon, averages out at $100 more than a KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer, our favorite stand mixer on the market. The KitchenAid looks more beautiful than the Kenwood and it's smaller too. If your priority is appearance, I would opt for KitchenAid. It performs incredibly well and it's reasonably priced too.

However, the bowl has a 1.25-gallon capacity, compared to Kenwood's extra 0.5-gallon bowl. This can make all the difference when you're batch baking. The Kenwood also has some technical features that make it an excellent option for specialist bakers. The stand has integrated scales and a timer, so you can keep an eye on the measurements of every aspect. Again, I think this suits serious, technical bakers much better than KitchenAid.

Should you buy it?

If you're serious about baking and you want to make big batches of batter, the Kenwood Chef Titanium is an excellent option. Scales and a timer might not matter to the average baker, but when the kitchen heats up and you're baking with more pressure and capacity, it's like having a helping hand. It's expensive and industrial, which doesn't suit every baker, but if that sounds like your bag, you'll love this.

How We Test

Our team of experts takes every stand mixer that we review to our specialist test kitchen. Here, we have a series of standard tests that each stand mixer has to go through. 

We make cakes to see how the mixer tackles batter; bread to see how it kneads; and whipped cream to see how well it can whip up some texture. We also make notes on the unboxing and cleaning process so that you don't have any nasty surprises when this stand mixer arrives at your door. If you'd like to find out more details, we have lots of information on our 'how we test' page.

When I wake up, there are two drinks that will get me out of bed: a simple espresso or a morning matcha. Lots of people sit firmly in one camp or the other, but for those of us who enjoy both, the matcha vs coffee debate is a daily struggle.

Across the world, people have been drinking both coffee and matcha for centuries. These energizing drinks are distinctive for their bitterness, which often comes with a balance of umami and earthy flavors too. Both are rich in antioxidants and promoted for their health benefits, so choosing between the two is a tricky task

Most people can make coffee at home, using the best coffee makers on the market and good quality coffee beans. If not in your home, you can find coffee on nearly every square, street, and sidewalk. 

Making a matcha or tracking down a supplier can prove more difficult. However, more cafés are putting matcha on the menu. It's an increasingly popular energy-boosting drink, which doesn't have some of the side effects of coffee. When I spoke to dieticians, they had a lot to say about matcha. They've tempted me to swap at least one of my espressos for a matcha latte and here's why.

Why drink coffee?

This classic energizing drink begins with coffee beans. To make a proper coffee, your coffee maker, or barista, will grind coffee beans into a fine powder. There is a range of different coffee makers on the market, but each one essentially uses water to extract oils from your coffee grounds. Whether they use long infusion times or intense pressure and temperatures, each process results in a tasty cup of joe.

Lukas Van Vyve, founder of Emergent Brew, loves coffee for its 'roasted, nutty, or chocolatey flavor and aroma'. Depending on the bean and brewing method, you can make cups of coffee to suit different taste preferences. Pour over coffee tastes delicate and smooth, like filter coffee; an espresso machine will make sweeter, more intense shots of coffee; and a French press will result in a rich and acidic brew.

Lukas recommends coffee if you want 'an instant kick of energy, because coffee contains high amounts of caffeine (around 100-140 mg of caffeine per cup). If you need a quick boost to kickstart your day or push you that extra 1% in a workout, you'll want an espresso behind you. 

Wherever you are, you can guarantee that coffee won't be far away. As a widely available product, it's easy to find beans, machines, or a good barista for a reasonable price. Since it is so popular, it's easier to get geeky and technical at home too. Most people even create their own coffee nooks. Here are the essentials that you'll find in mine: 

Why drink matcha?

Matcha is relatively new to the mass market stores. It is made from ground tea leaves and it tastes like grass smells: green and earthy. Dr Sumeet Kumar, researcher and founder of Genes Wellness, says that 'quality plays a big role in the taste of matcha. High-quality matcha shouldn't be too bitter. Instead, it should have a gentle astringency that tickles the back of your throat.' 

Lots of people are put off matcha because of the bitter flavors found in cheaper leaves. With a splash of almond milk or sweetener, you can balance the bitterness out, making a delicious, healthy brew. If you've been in Blank Street recently, you'll see that they're offering blueberry and white chocolate syrups (this one from Amazon is expensive, but it's the one Blank Street uses and I'm obsessed with it). These make matcha taste more like a dessert than a drink. It's been the tipping point for a lot of people sitting on the matcha fence.

Having to invest in the best matcha (available at Amazon) can be expensive and matcha varies significantly in color, caffeine content, and taste. However, when you drink it, you are ingesting lots of brilliant antioxidants and amino acids. One of the most significant is L-theanine. Dr Kamar says that the amino acid L-Theanine is the reason that 'matcha provides a more gradual, sustained energy boost. This means that you're less likely to experience jitters and a sudden energy crash.'

As a result, it's a popular drink amongst meditators, as it promotes a sense of focus, relaxation and calmness without causing drowsiness. If you want to buy the best matcha on the market, I would recommend trying one of these:

There aren't matcha makers in the same sense that there are coffee makers, so it might take more time to make the perfect matcha latte. However, lots of matcha products are very beautiful. I've combed the internet and spoken to matcha experts to find the most aesthetically pleasing matcha essentials. 

Head to Head

The press around coffee is only getting more positive. Gut guru, Tim Spector recommends that you drink an espresso in the morning to help your heart and gut health. On a recent podcast, he touted coffee as a daily essential that provides 'a good dose of antioxidants and fiber.'

Most of the dieticians that I spoke to gushed about the antioxidants found in matcha as well as coffee. Jenna Volpe, registered dietician and herbalist, told me that 'the specific type of antioxidant found in matcha (epigallocatechin-3-gallate) has been deemed generally beneficial for anti-aging, immunity, digestion, and other health benefits' in recent studies from the National Library of Medicine.

So it seems like you can't go wrong, as long as you're drinking one of the two.

However, if you're looking for more than just health benefits, the two drinks have very different offerings. Coffee can spike your energy levels quickly. This is because 'a single cup of coffee contains up to 140 mg of caffeine, compared to matcha which contains up to 80 mg per cup,' according to Registered Dietician, Edibel Quintero. If you need energy and you need it fast, it seems like coffee is your best option. 

However coffee comes with crashes, jitters, and withdrawal. It can even cause insomnia in some people. As a quick fix, coffee is an easy option. However, in the long term or if you suffer from coffee anxiety, you might want to move over to matcha, which has none of those side effects.

Maria Uspenski, the author of Cancer Hates Tea, describes matcha as 'calming, focusing, and full of feel-good molecules'. You can drink multiple cups of matcha and experience a slower, more sustained energy spike. Maria sees it 'as a mash-up of a chill pill and brain juice. For many of us, it's an acquired taste and not something we're wild about the first time we come across it, but that's largely because we're not exposed to it in our early years.' 

Softening the bitterness with a touch of vanilla and a splash of almond milk can create a delicious and energizing drink.

The benefits of matcha rival those of coffee, except that they come without any of the jitters or headaches. After speaking to dieticians, I was close to convinced that I needed to give up coffee and move on to matcha. However, they were quick to encourage more of a balanced approach. Matcha is harder to find, so it can also be more expensive. If you would drink three cups a day, like me, you might be tempted to buy a cheaper option. Most matchas, if they aren't organic or high-quality, can contain lead and other harmful chemicals. It's paramount that you source matcha from reputable sellers.

FAQs

Is matcha better for you than coffee?

Matcha and coffee have their own health benefits. Matcha has a reputation as 'cleaner' because it is a more gentle stimulant and has fewer side effects, especially relating to withdrawal symptoms. If you suffer from anxiety, insomnia, or coffee dependence, matcha will be better for you.

Is matcha as energizing as coffee?

Matcha has lower levels of caffeine than coffee per cup, but it is still energizing. You won't experience the same five minute boost that you might have from a morning espresso. Matcha will still stimulate your brain, in fact, lots of people drink matcha for focus and clarity.

Why is matcha better than coffee for anxiety?

Even though matcha contains caffeine, it has amino acids which slow and regulate the release of caffeine into your bloodstream. Dieticians told me that these amino acids mean that your nervous system is less stimulated.

Our Verdict

As I've mentioned, I could have a matcha every morning, or an espresso every day and be happy. Looking at the long-term health effects, dieticians have convinced me to take a step towards team matcha. I love coffee, but I don't love withdrawal headaches and coffee jitters.

However, in spite of this knowledge, I woke up this morning and made a cold brew coffee. I naturally gravitate to the richness of coffee over the grassy, earthy matchas when I need a morning boost. Even though it doesn't perform as well long-term, it's the pick-me-up I need when I'm going to the gym. It's still packed with amino acids and fiber, so I feel like I'm doing myself some good. I'll try to swap out one espresso for a matcha, but most of the time, I'll flip a coin to decide my winner.

If you’ve seen all the TikTok videos on how to make dalgona coffee, you’ll know it looks a lot like magic. Just whisking coffee and a spoonful of sugar together can make a sweet, caramel froth, that’s wonderfully light and delicious to eat, or drink. 

Normally with coffee trends, I advise you to shop for premium coffee beans and the best coffee makers on the market (that’s a wise choice for general life), but when it comes to Dalgona coffee, all you need is sugar and instant coffee granules.

I asked experts for their tips on how to make dalgona coffee more delicious and even tried different methods so that I could find out whether you can make dalgona coffee from fresh espressos, here’s everything you need to know – and more.

Where did Dalgona coffee come from?

Commonly known as whipped coffee, dalgona coffee originally comes from Macau. Whipped coffee has been around for years, but it saw a resurgence during the pandemic when people started experimenting with fancy coffees from the comfort of their own homes.

When the trend hit South Korea, it was given the name dalgona, because it looks like the Korean candy, even though it’s not in the recipe. You'll see it under a number of names, such as 'frappe coffee' in Greece and 'beaten coffee' in India. Whatever you call it, the basics are all the same.

How do I make Dalgona coffee?

There are lots of recipes online, but the method of making dalgona coffee is simple. You take two tablespoons of instant coffee, two tablespoons of boiling filtered water, and two tablespoons of sugar. Place all of them in a bowl at the same time and use a hand whisk to whisk the mixture until it's thick and forms soft peaks.

As a barista, I was keen to try this recipe. I'm well-stocked with most coffee gadgets and beans, but the one thing that I avoid is instant coffee. I think I'm in the minority though, since lots of people use instant coffee. I went to the store and bought instant coffee, but I also wanted to try the same results with a fresh espresso.

I followed the 1:1:1 ratio when using instant coffee and was amazed at how quickly I made dalgona coffee. Two tablespoons of instant coffee, two tablespoons of sugar, and two tablespoons of water was the perfect amount for my 9 fl.oz cup. Most people said to whisk it for ten minutes, but mine only took one. My Smeg hand mixer, which you can buy from QVC, is really strong, so don't expect the same speed. 

Shaif Ahmed, coffee expert from Berry To Brew, recommends that you 'Start whisking on a low speed and gradually increase to high via medium, this will lead to a great and long-lasting fluffiness with a tight, aerated texture.'

If you start with a high speed, there's a high chance you'll spray coffee everywhere and create large bubbles. On my first attempt at dalgona, this is exactly what I did. My white top was decorated with coffee splatters, but it tasted great in the end. You can also use a hand whisk, like these from Walmart. It might be more like a mini-workout, taking up to fifteen minutes to achieve a velvety texture, but needs must when it comes to coffee.

When I used a fresh espresso from my espresso machine, I had to adjust the recipe. Rather than using two teaspoons of instant coffee and two teaspoons of water, I used four teaspoons of espresso. My dalgona was identical to the instant coffee recipe, but I far preferred the taste of my fresh espresso. It had a lot more depth and richness, rather than my bitter, instant dalgona. I think it's not the default option in recipes, because dalgona is popular for being accessible to anyone, and not everyone has an espresso machine. 

However, I found another fresh-coffee supporter in Kayla Stavridis, Head of Marketing at Barista HQ. She recommends using a 'rich espresso shot to give your dalgona a more traditional, bold taste. One of the most reliable machines I've used is the Breville Barista Express, which you can buy from QVC, due to its precision and consistency.' In the absence of an espresso machine, Kayla recommends 'rich and robust instant coffee, such as Nescafe Gold or Starbucks Via Instant.'

Both the instant and fresh coffees that I made tasted very sweet, but because they aren't diluted much, they're also very strong. If you don't normally drink espressos, I'd recommend playing with the recipe to achieve a palatable brew. Baristas recommend serving dalgonas over ice with a splash of milk, which dilutes your coffee and gives a beautiful contrast between the pale milk and dark froth. I treated my dalgona like a dessert: with a spoon and some crumbled biscuits.

Recipe Substitutions

The dalgona froth tastes really strong and, when it's instant coffee, it's not very pleasant. I wanted to soften the bitterness of my instant coffee, so I substituted the water for almond milk. When I whipped up my coffee, it was lighter, but still a glossy and thick foam. I made sure to use a barista almond milk, so that it would hold its structure. I was surprised, because almond milk can be temperamental in cooking, but I think the recipe is so simple, it's hard to go wrong.

I was interested to see how my cold brew concentrate (which I made using a Toddy Cold Brew System) worked in a Dalgona coffee. If you make cold brew, this is the coffee type I'd recommend for Dalgona. The whipped coffee is a really intense flavor, so when you minimize the acidity from instant or hot coffee with some cold brew, you can get a much more mellow, sweet drink. You also won't need as much sugar, making it a healthier option too.

Given that this is a drink that's packed with sugar, I wanted to try it with some sugar alternatives too. Trista Best, Registered Dietician, encourages you to enjoy this as an occasional treat, or with sugar substitutions. She cautions that it is a 'trendy drink, but it's important to note that it is a high-sugar beverage. Individuals with dietary restrictions or concerns about sugar intake should consume it in moderation.'

I used stevia granules in place of sugar and found that they didn't dissolve as well, so I had some liquid at the bottom of my glass when I poured the Dalgona out to serve. If you have a blender, whizz up the stevia granules, so that they are a fine powder and you will achieve much better results. My Smeg hand mixer doubles up as a blender, so I used that. It's good to know that you can make a low-sugar option, you'll just need to work a bit harder.

Other recipes substitute the sugar for a liquid sweetener, such as honey, but be careful with liquid ratios and cut back on your water to avoid having to wait for a long time before your coffee is frothy.

Tips and tricks

If you’re struggling with a burnt taste, there are a few issues that you could be facing. You might've burnt your coffee. Whether this is your water temperature or brewing method, make sure that you’re not scalding your coffee; your water should be between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit. You also might have chosen a coffee bean which naturally tastes bitter too, so opt for sweeter Arabica beans like these. Lastly, you could be burning the sugar. It's unlikely, because if you're burning the sugar, you'll also be burning the beans.

If your coffee isn’t frothy and thick after 10 minutes, I would recommend adding a little baking soda. This will help your coffee froth and hold structure, but don’t add too much or it’ll taste soapy. If you're still struggling, Kayla recommends choosing a Latte Macchiato in the coffee shop. She says 'It's creamy, frothy, and has a similar visual appeal'. Other alternatives that she suggests are whipped matcha or whipped chocolate, where you substitute the instant coffee for matcha or hot chocolate powder.

Adding a pinch of instant hot chocolate will enhance the chocolate notes in your coffee. This is the trick that Zhen Zou, food blogger for Greedy Girl Gourmet, used when working at a biscuit factory in Thailand. 'If done correctly, you won't taste the coffee at all and will just get an intense cocoa flavor', so you can convert your coffee adverse friends to this brew too.

If you've enjoyed making whipped coffee, lots of recipe bloggers also make whipped matcha and whipped hot chocolate, all of which follow the same recipe, but with matcha or cocoa powder.

Appliance Essentials

To make the perfect Dalgona coffee, it's helpful to have the perfect tools too. These are our top recommendations for making the most velvety, flavorful cup. All three products have been tried and tested by our experts, so we can personally vouch that they're the best on the market.

FAQs

What makes dalgona coffee?

A mixture is instant coffee with sugar and water. Once you whisk them together using a hand whisk for 5-10 minutes, your coffee will be a thick foam, ready to serve over ice and milk. 

Do you have to use instant coffee for dalgona? 

You can use fresh coffee too. In fact, I preferred the taste of a fresh espresso in my dalgona. However, you'll need to adjust the recipe so that it doesn't have the wrong ratios. It'll be harder to froth if you don't use enough sugar.

Is dalgona coffee the same as whipped coffee?

Yes, they’re both frothy light coffees which you can drink hot or cold. Dalgona is just a name that has become popularized on TikTok, but lots of countries call it by different names.

This was a really quick coffee to make and I like that you'll probably have all the ingredients already in your store cupboard. It's more like a pudding than a drink and I wouldn't normally add 30g of sugar to my coffee, so I don't think I'll be replacing my morning brew with it, but it's fun to make. If you're having a special brunch or planning some fika time with friends, this is an easy way to elevate the occasion.

Toasters aren't the most essential countertop appliance, but they sure have a time to shine when it's breakfast or snack time. Perhaps the most common conception of a toaster is for it to be a boring box with a plunger at the side to push down a couple of slices of bread.

But this is a complete misconception when it comes to the Smeg 50s Retro 2 Slice Toaster. It does the basics but with 3 special functions, illuminated controls and a handy removable crumb tray it breaks the mould and enters the market as a luxury toaster.

I put it to the test over a few months, using it every day to either warm a bagel, toast bread or defrost a slice of frozen bread. I've removed the crumb tray on several occasions and given it a wipe-down to keep it looking like new. It was the only toaster in our household at the time of the review so it has certainly been given a run for its money. Now the testing is over, I've found one of the best toasters that you can buy. 

Smeg 50s Retro 2 Slice Toaster

Smeg 50s Retro 2 Slice Toaster specifications

Smeg 50s Retro 2 Slice Toaster: First impressions

The Smeg 50s Retro 2 Slice Toaster is part of the iconic brand's award-winning toaster collection. You can choose between the Red Dot-winning two slot toaster, the  two slot four slice toaster or large four slot toasters.

The toaster I reviewed was glossy black, though the toaster is available in 10 other colors too. It has a thick metal lever and centralized browning dial. This dial - along with the bagel and defrost buttons - are illuminated and has a stop button. It'll let you choose between 6 browning levels when you pop an item in for toasting into the 3cm built-in rack.

Smeg 50s Retro 2 Slice Toaster: Setting up

The Smeg 50s Retro 2 Slice Toaster arrived in a cardboard delivery box. It used recyclable packaging throughout, which is always nice to see.

Before first use, I read in the user manual that users are to heat up the toaster without anything in it on the maximum temperature setting. This is pretty standard practice for new toasters because some dust may have settled on the heating elements during construction and packaging that can cause a smell when burnt.

I can confirm that there was a slight burning smell during the first use, but it went away after it was first used. 

Test 1 - Toasting bread

This was the most popular function in my family. I slotted in medium sliced bread to the 3cm-wide slot and set my preferred browning level to 3.

It took 47 seconds to finish a partially toasted slice of bread. You can see in the image above that I slotted in the bread portrait, as it were, which resulted in the tops of the bread missing out grilling.  If you put the bread in landscape, however, you can achieved the perfect browning, and perfect degree of toasting in the same amount of time.

This is my biggest criticism of this toaster - that you can only grill with the bread in one direction. It's pretty tedious to have to bear it in mind. If you're making breakfast early in the morning and you're tired and thinking about something else, you could easily forget to put your toast in the right way and wind up with an underwhelming breakfast. There are much bigger problems in the world, but it's mildly frustrating when other toasters don't have this problem. 

Test 2 - warming bagel

I love a bagel but when they loose that soft inside it just feels like they loose all their charm. Keen to see if the bagel setting performed, I popped in a whole bagel into one of the 3c-wide slots. This special bagel setting will only activate the outer elements of the toaster, whereas the more standard toasting setting activates the inner elements too.

The slot was wide enough to fit the bagel in without cutting it in half, although it was a little snug. What it achieved was a crispy top and soft bottom - a perfectly toasted  bagel. I ramped up the browning setting to 4 to try a frozen bagel, and this was perfect, too. 

Test 3 - defrosting bread

I always put my sliced bread in the freezer to keep it fresher for long. The problem is when I come to make a sandwich and need soft bread.

I used the defrost setting on the toaster to do just this. I had the browning setting on the lowest possible and it worked a treat, restoring the bread back to a soft, plump slice. I also tried ramped up the browning level to a 4 or 5 if I wanted to make toast straight from frozen bread and again, it worked perfectly.

Smeg 50s Retro 2 Slice Toaster: Cleaning

There really wasn't much to cleaning the Smeg 50s Retro 2 Slice Toaster. The most minimal amount of effort had the toaster looking like new.

It has a removable crumb tray - a small stainless steel dish at the bottom of the toaster which collects any rogue crumbs that fall down from the slots. When it’s full, you can just slide it out and throw away the crumbs, making it easy to clean and reducing the risk of smoke from leftover crumbs burning.

Cleaning the outside of the toaster is even easier. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth will restore the shine of the glossy black casing, thick metal lever and slot opening.

How does it compare?

This is a good toaster, but it's overpriced. This Smeg toaster is nearly three times as expensive as our #1 toaster, the Cuisinart CPT-180WP1 , yet it has two fewer slots and the same number of functions. Money-wise, I think it's a no-brainer to make another choice.

However, it does as good a job of making toast as our top picks, and it looks much better. Most toasters are utilitarian and ugly, whereas this 50s-style toaster will - ahem - slot into most kitchens aesthetics. If your boring old toaster is throwing off your kitchen design then it could be worth the investment. 

Should you buy it?

If you need to replace your toaster because it's broken, you fancy a stylish upgrade or you would like to make the perfect pairing with the Smeg 50s Retro Kettle, then I feel that this toaster is a fabulous choice. 

The build quality, design and usability is faultless. It looks gorgeous on the counter-top and it's so easy to pop in a slice of bread or bagel to plunge into toasting. I'm a big fan of how easy it is to keep looking like new, too, with the most arduous task being to remove the crumb tray without spilling any crumbs.

A couple of small issues that I had with it is that slices of bread can only slot in one way; going in portrait results in a not fully toasted slice of bread, and that it feels a little plasticky. Yet neither of these issues are relevant when you consider that this toaster is $199.95 - which is more than double the price of other models which are more in the region of $30 - 80.