The last ten years have seen significant development in smart home technology, particularly as we determine the optimal level of intelligence for our everyday devices. When it comes to food preparation, traditional methods often prove superior, with advanced features sometimes adding unnecessary complexity. The recently released Revolution Cooking R180 High-Speed Smart Toaster, priced at $299.95, achieves an ideal compromise, offering genuinely beneficial technology while avoiding superfluous elements – notably, it does not require an internet connection.

The basics

A key characteristic of the Revolution Cooking R180 is its sizable and easily noticeable touchscreen. This screen takes the place of conventional controls like buttons and dials, and it provides clear visual updates as your toast is being prepared. This functionality is certainly a component of why the R180 is labeled a “Smart Toaster,” however the company’s “InstaGlo” heating system is arguably its most significant innovation.

Regarding fundamental specifications, this is a toaster designed for two slices, featuring slots that are sufficiently wide to easily handle items such as bagels and hamburger buns. It offers pre-set options for toasting bagels, sliced bread, English muffins, waffles, and toaster pastries (including Pop-Tarts). Users can select from three distinct heating settings – “fresh,” “frozen,” and “reheat” – and adjust the browning level with seven different settings.

When not actively toasting, the unit can function as a standby clock. Additionally, the toaster is capable of issuing periodic notifications to remind you to remove and discard the contents of the crumb tray.

Design and performance

The Revolution R180 boasts a well-executed industrial design, avoiding both excessive flashiness and an overly futuristic aesthetic. Its form is essentially a rectangular shape with a brushed stainless steel finish, complemented by a sloped chrome front and a sizable touchscreen display. This toaster presents a pleasing appearance on any kitchen countertop, and the angled front enhances visibility and ease of touchscreen interaction, particularly when used while standing.

The large, bright display utilizes capacitive touch technology, ensuring highly responsive input. The interface is thoughtfully designed; despite being digital, it maintains simplicity. All essential functions are readily accessible on a single screen, while a standard settings icon provides access to features like time adjustments and the option to select either an analog or digital clock face for the sleep screen.

Operating the R180 Smart Toaster is straightforward. There’s no need for internet connectivity or a dedicated app—simply plug it in, and it powers on, presenting a screen for selecting bread type, browning level, and heating mode. Users can tap the image representing their desired toast, or scroll through the options, choose from the available modes, and select a browning level that visually matches their preference. The image updates to reflect the chosen level, and pressing the “Start” button initiates the toasting process.

The toasting process itself is notably quick; the Revolution toaster operates at a faster pace than many conventional models. While the speed may not fully align with the company’s marketing promises, it undeniably offers a quicker toasting experience. Revolution also emphasizes the quality of the toast, asserting that it prevents bread from drying out and delivers superior results, even in challenging scenarios like defrosting and toasting simultaneously.

Interestingly, I wasn’t initially focused on these specific claims when first testing the unit. However, both myself and a colleague immediately observed that items toasted in the R180 appeared significantly less dried out compared to those made in our existing Breville toaster. Simultaneously, the toasted portions were consistently crisp and golden brown. Remarkably, Revolution’s assertions prove accurate—this Smart Toaster genuinely produces better-tasting toast.

Bottom line

Spending $300 on a toaster that makes just two slices undoubtedly appears to be a luxury – and, to state it plainly, it is – yet even high-end, conventional toasters can be a significant investment for many households. Revolution’s primary advantage lies in its ability to create toast with a perfectly crisp outside and a tender, moist interior, and it accomplishes this remarkably well. While the touchscreen likely contributes to the overall price, it offers a straightforward and intuitive method for customizing your toasting preferences, and also functions as an attractive digital clock when not actively toasting. Ultimately, Revolution’s Smart Toaster offers a sensible level of intelligence, focusing on the features that truly matter in a smart appliance – though its substantial cost warrants careful consideration of your dedication to toasted foods.