After 44 hours spent researching the best bread machines, we think Zojirushi BB-PDC20BA Virtuoso Plus Bread Machine is the best for most people.
This choice is based on several criteria: length, width, height, material, color, energy consumption, weight capacity, kneading paddle, display, automatic dispenser, delay timer, programmed settings, loaf sizes, weight, and warranty, among other things.
| Product | Price | Overall Rating | Quality | Durability | Ease of Use | Maintenance | Value for Money | length | width | height | material | color | energy consumption | weight capacity | kneading paddle | display | automatic dispenser | delay timer | programmed settings | loaf sizes | weight | warranty | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zojirushi BB-PDC20BA Virtuoso Plus Bread Machine | Check Price | 4.9 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 10.5 in | 18 in | 12.88 in | Stainless steel | Stainless steel / black | 700 watts | 2 lbs | Double | LCD display | Yes | 13 hours | 15 preset, 3 crust | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs | 24 lbs | 1 year |
| Breville BBM800XL Custom Loaf Bread Machine | Check Price | 4.6 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 9.6 in | 16.4 in | 13.3 in | Stainless steel | Stainless steel | 600 watts | 2 lbs | Collapsible | LCD display | Yes | 13 hours | 13 preset, 3 crust | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs, 2-1/2-lbs | 16.85 lbs | 1 year |
| Cuisinart CBK-200 Convection Bread Machine | Check Price | 4.5 | 5.0 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 19 in | 16 in | 13 in | Stainless steel | Stainless steel | 680 watts | 2 lbs | Single | LCD display | No | 12 hours | 16 preset, 3 crust | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs | 16 lbs | 3 years |
 | Oster CKSTBRTW20-NP Expressbake Bread Machine | Check Price | 4.2 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 12 in | 11 in | 11 in | Plastic | White | 650 watts | 2 lbs | Single | LCD display | No | 13 hours | 12 preset, 3 crust | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs | 8 lbs | 1 year |
 | SKG Automatic Programmable Bread Machine | Check Price | 4.3 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 15 in | 13 in | 11 in | Plastic | Silver / White | 550 watts | 2 lbs | Single | LCD display | Yes | 15 hours | 19 preset, 3 crust | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs | 11.5 lbs | 2 years |
Selection Of The Best Bread Machines
Here are the best bread machines for most people according to Outlinist:
Zojirushi BB-PDC20BA Virtuoso Plus Bread Machine
Breadmakers demand that we put our time and effort into bread which we could just run to the shop for.
But they are so popular, there must be something about a bread machine that makes delaying gratification a good idea.
It turns out there is not so much time and effort involved. All you need to do is add the ingredients, close the lid and push a few buttons.
The result is tasty homemade bread at a fraction of the cost of shop bought.
Plus you get to add exactly what you want ingredient wise and even leave out the sugar.
Information
The Zojirushi Virtuoso comes with 2 kneading paddles, which makes sense for a 9 inch loaf size, and both the paddles and the canister have a non-stick coating to help get the dough or cooked bread out.
Make way for the Zojirushi BB-PDC20BA Virtuoso Plus Bread Machine. This is truly a giant among bread makers, almost a commercial bread maker because it produces a full 2 pound loaf at the traditional 9 x 5 inch size.
This Zojirushi bread maker is for people who take homemade bread seriously, and so the makers have not left anything to chance. If you just want it to make perfect dough and cook it in your own oven, that is an option too.
And of course, it is not limited to making loaves; you can make pizza dough and even noodles with this breadmaker. Naturally there is a Zojirushi bread machine recipe book to guide you through each of the steps on all the recipes.
| length | 10.5 in |
|---|---|
| width | 18 in |
| height | 12.88 in |
| material | Stainless steel |
| color | Stainless steel / black |
| energy consumption | 700 watts |
| weight capacity | 2 lbs |
| kneading paddle | Double |
| display | LCD display |
| automatic dispenser | Yes |
| delay timer | 13 hours |
| programmed settings | 15 preset, 3 crust |
| loaf sizes | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs |
| weight | 24 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year |
The Zojirushi Virtuoso comes with 2 kneading paddles, which makes sense for a 9 inch loaf size, and both the paddles and the canister have a non-stick coating to help get the dough or cooked bread out.
The settings are easy to see and are controlled with just a single button for most bread types, although there may be multiple button push for some. Printed on the lid is all the setting numbers so you don’t have to look them up. It also has a large window so you can see the bread bake.
A nice touch is the ability to make European bread which has that chewy crust. In addition, the Zojirushi Virtuoso machine romps through multigrain, whole wheat, vegan (olive oil not butter) and gluten-free bread.
Pros
If you want to do something special and it is not quite there, you can program your own courses.
In some ways it was hard limiting the positives to just six because the Zojirushi Virtuoso has so many things going for it. People use bread machines in different ways, however, so deciding which of the many benefits is most important depends on the buyer.
- Dual heaters surround the entire loaf for perfect even baking: The lid and the base have heating elements. The effect is to create a loaf which is consistent all around. This is more like the loaf being in an oven with heat all around it rather than a single source.
- Zojirushi went to a lot of trouble on crust control: Many people believe there is nothing better than the crust of fresh bread, and it looks like Zojirushi agrees with you. You can control how chewy but also how well it is browned and even make European style bread too.
- Open the lid during the mixing phase to add ingredients: If you want to add raisins or nuts later on in the process (before it goes to final rising) you can go ahead and lift the lid without worrying about adjusting the temperature or stopping the bread from rising properly.
- Power blips are not a problem: Acknowledging the vagaries of the local electric company, if the power goes out mid-cycle, the Virtuoso has a 10 minute interruption memory. This means so long as it is not a long, serious outage, your bread will be just fine.
- You have to love the flexibility of this machine: You can make 2 lbs. of bread, or less. You can make bread roll dough or cinnamon rolls. You can add sugar and salt, or don’t. Whatever you want to do in the dough realm you can go ahead and try.
- If the pre-set programs are not enough, create your own: If you want to do something special and it is not quite there, you can program your own courses. The machine comes with a full set of instructions and there is also a video online showing how to do it.
Cons
Clearly it’s important to get a balanced view so you can assess if the Zojirushi Virtuoso the best bread maker for you. Here are a few things that might offset some of the positives for you, making your choice more well-informed.
- Over time the paddles can degrade and wobble: This is by no means a consistent factor, but the idea of aluminum in the bread is not very appealing. Replacement paddles can be purchased if the degradation is sufficiently advanced, plus the machine comes with a one year warranty.
- Liquid Crystal Display does not have a back light: This sometimes makes it hard to see the controls, especially for shorter people as the Virtuoso’s control panel is on the top of the machine and is quite flat. You might consider putting it near a light source like a window or under a kitchen counter light for clarity.
- Beep sound during a cycle can’t ever be ignored: Some people will love this, others not so much. The machine beeps to let you know where in the process it is, and it is quite insistent about it too. It is helpful if you want to add ingredients mid-cycle.
| Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| length | 10.5 in | 9.6 in | 19 in |
| width | 18 in | 16.4 in | 16 in |
| height | 12.88 in | 13.3 in | 13 in |
| material | Stainless steel | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
| color | Stainless steel / black | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
| energy consumption | 700 watts | 600 watts | 680 watts |
| weight capacity | 2 lbs | 2 lbs | 2 lbs |
| kneading paddle | Double | Collapsible | Single |
| display | LCD display | LCD display | LCD display |
| automatic dispenser | Yes | Yes | No |
| delay timer | 13 hours | 13 hours | 12 hours |
| programmed settings | 15 preset, 3 crust | 13 preset, 3 crust | 16 preset, 3 crust |
| loaf sizes | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs, 2-1/2-lbs | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs |
| weight | 24 lbs | 16.85 lbs | 16 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year | 1 year | 3 years |
Summary
It comes with detailed instructions, a cook book and videos to show even the break maker neophyte the way.
The Zojirushi BB-PDC20BA Virtuoso Plus Bread Machine is a workhorse machine designed to turn out bread for a whole household. With a loaf of 2 lbs. it will work well while the kids are at home, but when they leave, Mom and Dad can still use it.
It comes with detailed instructions, a cook book and videos to show even the break maker neophyte the way. This Zojirushi bread machine is capable of producing most bread types you can think of and is just as competent at gluten-free bread as it is wheat.
Of all the many features on this machine, the dual heater along with the ability to remove dough and finish it in the oven make this machine supremely flexible as well as easy to use.
Breville BBM800XL Custom Loaf Bread Machine
The thought of homemade bread is always appetizing. What may not be appetizing is the time and effort needed to make it.
Traditional family recipes for homemade bread can be nostalgic but difficult to make with outdated methods.
There are quite a few models of bread machines on the market and finding the right one doesn’t have to be a daunting task.
Imagine being able to simply combine ingredients and have delicious bread ready for breakfast or guests. No one will say no to homemade bread.
Think of all the varieties of bread you can make and the delicious aromas that will have mouths watering.
Information
With this Breville bread-making machine, making bread has never been easier, even for beginners.
The Breville BBM800XL Custom Loaf Bread Machine is one of the top rated bread makers on the market, and with its quality craftsmanship it’s no wonder why. Breville launched their company in 2002 and their brand is a favorite among households.
The machine itself weighs less than 17 pounds and with its compact dimensions (9.6 x 16.4 x 13.3) it will not take up much counter space. The sleek stainless steel design will coordinate perfectly with any style of kitchen. It’s easy to store as well, for those who prefer to keep their counters open.
With easy-to-use features, you will have perfect homemade bread to serve every time. The machine does the work for you, so you don’t have put off other priorities – including sleep!
| length | 9.6 in |
|---|---|
| width | 16.4 in |
| height | 13.3 in |
| material | Stainless steel |
| color | Stainless steel |
| energy consumption | 600 watts |
| weight capacity | 2 lbs |
| kneading paddle | Collapsible |
| display | LCD display |
| automatic dispenser | Yes |
| delay timer | 13 hours |
| programmed settings | 13 preset, 3 crust |
| loaf sizes | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs, 2-1/2-lbs |
| weight | 16.85 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year |
A built-in interface lets you choose when the bread will be ready by as well as when additional ingredients need to be added. It’s easy to read and user friendly. With the manual, you are able to configure different settings for your personal preferences.
In addition to 60 recipes that are easy to follow, coming up with your own recipes is even easier with this smart machine. You will always have a great tasting loaf of bread to serve. You can even get creative and add extras for a variety of flavors.
With this Breville bread-making machine, making bread has never been easier, even for beginners. The best part is it won’t be time consuming like it was for your grandmother. You can relax and enjoy your free time as a delicious loaf of bread cooks perfectly in this machine. Your friends and family will believe that you’re a baking professional.
Pros
The removable lid is a plus and makes it even easier to remove the finished bread.
If you want to make delicious homemade Italian bread, or any one of your basic yeast bread recipes, then you need the best bread machine on the market. Breville has created a machine that is not only easy to use, but has perfect results every time.
- Short cord and easy access hole in plug for safety: The short cord ensures less clutter and clean appearance of your counters. The extra safety feature of the finger hole in the plug ensures easy plugging or unplugging of the cord while decreasing risk of shocks.
- Non-stick bread pan with handle: Easy clean up and less chance of transference between recipes is always ideal. The handle is extremely helpful for removing the pan without burning yourself.
- Stainless steel housing & ventilation grills: The heating element and drive mechanism inside the stainless steel protects not only the inside of the machine, but also prevents injuries to the user. The ventilation grills allow excess heat to escape and ensures even baking.
- Viewing window & removable lid: The old adage of “a watched pot never boils” doesn’t apply here. Who doesn’t like to watch their creation rise and turn a beautiful color? The removable lid is a plus and makes it even easier to remove the finished bread.
- Automatic fruit and nut dispenser: If you like to add flavors and extras to your recipes, then you will love this feature. Add the nuts or other extras to the dispenser and the machine will mix them in at precisely the right time, ensuring the full flavor of your bread.
- Great color, size, weight and appearance: Stainless works well with any color palette and this machine minimalist design will fit with any decor. The weight ensures sturdiness whether in use or not and the size is perfect even for the smallest of counters. It’s sleek and takes up very little space.
Cons
While seeing all the “pros” of any product is helpful, there are always a few drawbacks as well. The reality is that no product is ever perfect, and each individual will have his or her dislikes. See if any of these shortcomings will sway your purchase decision.
- Limitation on loaf sizes: Every household size is different, and limitation on loaf size can be a slight detriment. The sizes range from 1 pound to 2 and a half pounds, which may require more baking for larger families.
- Only one color is offered: While the stainless steel color is neutral that most consider a plus, there are some consumers who would prefer some variation in colors depending on their preferences. Not a deal breaker, but can be a minor nuisance.
- Can be noisy at times: While the machine is kneading the dough, the paddles can be a bit loud. Any bread maker on the market will make noise due to the paddles working the dough. This Breville is no louder than others and rest assured, very thorough.
| Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| length | 9.6 in | 10.5 in | 19 in |
| width | 16.4 in | 18 in | 16 in |
| height | 13.3 in | 12.88 in | 13 in |
| material | Stainless steel | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
| color | Stainless steel | Stainless steel / black | Stainless steel |
| energy consumption | 600 watts | 700 watts | 680 watts |
| weight capacity | 2 lbs | 2 lbs | 2 lbs |
| kneading paddle | Collapsible | Double | Single |
| display | LCD display | LCD display | LCD display |
| automatic dispenser | Yes | Yes | No |
| delay timer | 13 hours | 13 hours | 12 hours |
| programmed settings | 13 preset, 3 crust | 15 preset, 3 crust | 16 preset, 3 crust |
| loaf sizes | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs, 2-1/2-lbs | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs |
| weight | 16.85 lbs | 24 lbs | 16 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year | 1 year | 3 years |
Summary
It’s sleek and simple design work great with any style of kitchen, and will not take up a lot of space.
Bread makers are handy for when you don’t want to drive to the store and buy the shelf products that may or may not be days old. Plus, there are few things better than homemade warm bread. The Breville BBM800XL Custom Loaf Bread Machine is not only the best bread maker for beginners, but also avid bakers too.
It’s sleek and simple design work great with any style of kitchen, and will not take up a lot of space. Its short cord and added safety features will protect your house and family. The machine itself is easy to clean, easy to use and produces delicious perfectly cooked loaves of bread.
With this Breville bread machine, you’ll never need to make another run to the corner store for bread and fall in love with the aromatic coziness plus the taste of homemade bread.
Cuisinart CBK-200 Convection Bread Machine
Bread makers are not just another kitchen gadget.
They can do so much more than you ever thought possible and fill your home with the wonderful smell of fresh baked bread at a fraction of the price of the shops.
Have ever wondered are bread machines any good? People imagine they can only turn out a loaf of white bread, but there are so many more bread machine uses.
Now you can use one to make almost any traditional dough product. Some machines even make jam.
Bread makers have come of age and up-to-date at the same time.
Information
With this Cuisinart bread machine, you can remove the dough and either bake it in the oven or freeze it for later use.
The Cuisinart CBK-200 Convection Bread Machine is a smart, mid-range stainless steel unit that will grace any kitchen. It comes with a stay-cool chrome exterior and three loaf sizes of 1, 1.5 and 2 lbs. produced in a square loaf.
Sixteen pre-programmed options allow you to make many different breads from a whole wheat loaf to cinnamon rolls. It comes with a range of artisan bread machine recipes and has a cool rise option to create the chewier crusts associated with artisan bread. The display screen shows which program is selected.
This is a convection Cuisinart bread maker which circulates warm air around the whole bread container allowing dough to rise evenly and the crust to be finished consistently. There is a delay start program which allows you to go to bed and wake up to hot fresh bread in the morning.
| length | 19 in |
|---|---|
| width | 16 in |
| height | 13 in |
| material | Stainless steel |
| color | Stainless steel |
| energy consumption | 680 watts |
| weight capacity | 2 lbs |
| kneading paddle | Single |
| display | LCD display |
| automatic dispenser | No |
| delay timer | 12 hours |
| programmed settings | 16 preset, 3 crust |
| loaf sizes | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs |
| weight | 16 lbs |
| warranty | 3 years |
With this Cuisinart bread machine, you can remove the dough and either bake it in the oven or freeze it for later use. Guidelines for the order of ingredients are provided in the Cuisinart bread maker recipe booklet, and there are also videos and instructions too.
The bread maker will create almost any bread; gluten-free is no problem, nor is low-, or salt and sugar. There are three settings of crust color, although the convection function may mean breads with higher sugar content do go quite dark.
At only 19 x 16 x 13 inches it won’t take up much room on the countertop or to be stored away.
Pros
Once paused, the CBK-200 will automatically continue the program after fifteen minutes.
Cuisinart has put a lot of thought into this CBK-200 model to try and cover all the things any baker would wish to use in this multi-talented machine. The following are some of the features which are especially useful functions
- Variety of tones – such as the remove paddle tone: The CBK-200 is quite vocal in its variable tones, but as bread making is something you start and stop as it goes through the rise and fold cycles, this is handy. There are tones at the major points in a cycle.
- Comes with a measuring spoon and cup: Sounds pretty basic, but measurements matter in bread making and the addition of the spoon and cup gives you confidence that you’re making the exact blend for the recipe. You need not worry over ingredient volumes and, you will get the amount of yeast right.
- Convection Fan is more like an oven than not: Blowing hot air around the whole cooking space is more like an oven than a single source element. It makes sure that the color and crispness of the loaf are consistent across the entire loaf and creates a pleasing finished product.
- Program number 16 is a handy bake only option: As mentioned, if you have frozen dough, instead of going through the entire cycle, add the dough (unfrozen) and just bake it. Cooking time is in increments of 10 minutes, so if a loaf is too light, add 10 more.
- Power failure backup will give you 10 – 15 minutes: There’s nothing worse than losing power mid-cycle. You could lose the entire batch of dough or, if it doesn’t rise properly, it might turn out a like a brick and not a loaf. The power backup has your back for up to 15 minutes.
- Pause function is helpful to suspend but not stop: Once stopped, the CBK-200 will automatically continue the program after fifteen minutes. If you have finished the things you needed to do before then you can manually start the program. This is helpful if you want to change the program.
Cons
The convection fan on the Cuisinart CBK-200 does tend to brown the crusts more than you would imagine, especially if there is a lot of sugar. Users are recommended to start light and then darken with experience. Here are some other possible negative features.
- All the mix-ins must be added at the beginning: There are some ingredients (fruit and nuts) which can be added later on, but the general rule is that everything goes in at the beginning. You can’t taste test the dough and add after the basic mix has taken place.
- No options to program yourself for experienced bakers: The only options are the ones which come with the unit. This may be overcome by adding 10 minutes on the bake only option, but some people like a little more control or want to experiment once they have the feel for the machine
- No option to do smaller gluten-free loaves: This seems counter-intuitive, but as gluten-free bread has a shorter shelf life, having to make 2 lbs. at a time seems excessive unless the whole household is celiac – unlikely! Luckily there’s another kitchen gadget to help – open up the freezer.
| Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| length | 19 in | 10.5 in | 9.6 in |
| width | 16 in | 18 in | 16.4 in |
| height | 13 in | 12.88 in | 13.3 in |
| material | Stainless steel | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
| color | Stainless steel | Stainless steel / black | Stainless steel |
| energy consumption | 680 watts | 700 watts | 600 watts |
| weight capacity | 2 lbs | 2 lbs | 2 lbs |
| kneading paddle | Single | Double | Collapsible |
| display | LCD display | LCD display | LCD display |
| automatic dispenser | No | Yes | Yes |
| delay timer | 12 hours | 13 hours | 13 hours |
| programmed settings | 16 preset, 3 crust | 15 preset, 3 crust | 13 preset, 3 crust |
| loaf sizes | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs, 2-1/2-lbs |
| weight | 16 lbs | 24 lbs | 16.85 lbs |
| warranty | 3 years | 1 year | 1 year |
Summary
The fifteen-minute pause is a nice feature as stopping and starting requires a prodigious feat of memory which most of us don’t have.
The Cuisinart CBK-200 Convection Bread Machine is an attractive and useful addition to the kitchen. Three different loaf sizes are handy for differently sized families, although not being able to do small sized gluten-free loaves is a small drawback.
The fifteen-minute pause is a nice feature as stopping and starting requires a prodigious feat of memory which most of us don’t have. Make sure that you test darkness settings and start light as the convection fan does tend to darken the bread.
The CBK-200 is a thoroughly competent and capable machine that provides loads of options for bread products and even pizza dough which is a nice touch. A favorite feature is the bake only option. You’ll have a lot of flexibility with this bread machine.
Oster CKSTBRTW20-NP Expressbake Bread Machine
By comparison with some kitchen electronics the bread maker is relatively humble; its functions are about bread and loaves and things you can do with dough.
But talk to anyone who has one and you’ll learn that these people are in love with their bread machine.
When you’re looking for the best bread maker what you need is something that gives you consistency of results.
You search for the best bread mix because you don’t have the time for bread to fail.
Your machine needs to always turn out the same loaf, until you are ready to start experimenting and then it does that too.
Information
Like some of the more expensive models, this one has a 13-hour delay, so you can have hot bread when you come home from work.
When is a bread maker more than a bread maker? When it is an Oster CKSTBRTW20-NP Expressbake Bread Machine. This amazing machine has to be a candidate for the best budget bread machine because it packs so much capability into a small space.
The machine is a cube, almost exactly a foot-sized white square, sitting on the counter top. The bread it makes is a standard 3D rectangle – the perfect loaf for sandwiches and toast.
Loaf sizes are 1, 1.5 or 2 lbs., and this Oster model makes all the bread types you would want but also produces pasta dough and pizza base. It has a quick bake option too which produces bread in an hour which is very handy for unexpected situations.
| length | 12 in |
|---|---|
| width | 11 in |
| height | 11 in |
| material | Plastic |
| color | White |
| energy consumption | 650 watts |
| weight capacity | 2 lbs |
| kneading paddle | Single |
| display | LCD display |
| automatic dispenser | No |
| delay timer | 13 hours |
| programmed settings | 12 preset, 3 crust |
| loaf sizes | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs |
| weight | 8 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year |
Like some of the more expensive models, this one has a 13-hour delay, so you can have hot bread when you come home from work. It also has a 1 hour warming option, so it’s is still warm even though the train was late.
This Oster bread maker is really easy to use, but it is always a good idea for new users to read the instructions and check the measurements – bread is a science as well as an art. The controls are so self-evident that it is very easy to see how to use it.
One little quirk is the recommendation that ingredients be added at room temperature, which needs a little thinking about for eggs and milk. Otherwise this Oster 2-pound Expressbake bread machine has got it all going on.
Pros
The instruction booklet and the recipes are very clear and easy to follow.
There are many more positives than negatives with this Oster Expressbake machine. It is a great workhorse bread maker which punches above its weight over and over. Here are six of the top benefits which make it special in its class.
- This machine is a set it and forget it ninja: You add all the ingredients at the beginning (including fruit and nuts which go into a dispenser). You simply turn it on and leave it be. The generous window allows you to see what is going on if you choose.
- Raised defined buttons are great for visually impaired people: Each option is controlled by a true button and is clearly marked. This may be easier than the pressure buttons under the control skin. Some sight capability is needed, but if you’re looking for raised service buttons, this is it.
- Ultra-fast settings for both the 1.0 and the 1.5lb loaves: These two loaf sizes can be made in less than hour. There is a quick option for a 2 lb. loaf which is an hour and twenty minutes. Users will decide for themselves if they prefer a longer rising time.
- Neat, small footprint makes it perfect for RV’s and campers: If you need a bread maker at home, how much more would you need one on vacation when everyone is active? This Oster is small enough to pack (dimensions are 11x11x12 inches), yet still produce your daily bread with ease.
- Instruction book and enclosed recipes are easy to follow: There are how to videos online but you probably will not need them because the instruction booklet and the recipes are very clear and easy to follow. Recipes are separated into type and speed; you do adjust for express baking, though.
- Works well for the inexperienced bread baker: As all the Oster bread maker reviews point out, people who are new to bread machines love this Oster for its ease-of-use. Those who are more experienced love its set it and forget it nature. Its simplicity appeals to all bakers equally.
Cons
This machine is not dishwasher safe which is something of a negative, although Oster has made it as easy to clean as they could. Here are one or two other downsides which will affect some more than others.
- Gluten-free setting is not the very best available: However, users report that using the wheat bread program works better for gluten free than the gluten setting. The main point is experiment a little and you will be able to make gluten-free bread according to your personal taste.
- You must remove the arm from the fully cooked loaf: You are advised not to open the machine once a program has started, leaving the dough arm in the bread during cooking. However, users report doing so without any adverse effect.
- Unit is a little loud: Some users suggest that it in addition to being noisy, it also vibrates. But it is an 8 lb. machine rotating 2 lbs. of dough, so some noise is essential. Try placing it on a wet dish towel to stop it from moving if you find it excessive.
| Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| length | 12 in | 10.5 in | 9.6 in |
| width | 11 in | 18 in | 16.4 in |
| height | 11 in | 12.88 in | 13.3 in |
| material | Plastic | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
| color | White | Stainless steel / black | Stainless steel |
| energy consumption | 650 watts | 700 watts | 600 watts |
| weight capacity | 2 lbs | 2 lbs | 2 lbs |
| kneading paddle | Single | Double | Collapsible |
| display | LCD display | LCD display | LCD display |
| automatic dispenser | No | Yes | Yes |
| delay timer | 13 hours | 13 hours | 13 hours |
| programmed settings | 12 preset, 3 crust | 15 preset, 3 crust | 13 preset, 3 crust |
| loaf sizes | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs, 2-1/2-lbs |
| weight | 8 lbs | 24 lbs | 16.85 lbs |
| warranty | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year |
Summary
It is small yet produces loaves as large as any of the high-end bread makers.
For its market niche and capabilities this Oster CKSTBRTW20-NP Expressbake Bread Machine almost achieves pin-up status. It is small yet produces loaves as large as any of the high-end bread makers. It creates dough for pasta, bread rolls and bagels. It will make jam and spreads such as cheese and herb mixes. Who would have thought that of a bread maker?
It is easy to clean and all the washable parts remove easily. Still we would have liked a dishwasher option. The raised buttons are a nice touch, and yet, the machine contrives to look good and up to date.
12 cooking settings and 3 crust options really does mean that this bread machine properly covers most home bakers’ desires.
SKG Automatic Programmable Bread Machine
Making bread using a machine is a little bit like an art, and there are quite a few rules. Newbies sometimes get a little intimidated.
A bread machine classed as “beginner friendly” is the answer to a newbie bread maker’s prayer.
These machines have a reputation for being cost effective, and they are. It is about 3:1 against shop bought loaves.
They are good for you because there are less chemicals and preservatives than the shop’s. Plus, you know how fresh it is, to the moment.
But is the bread maker a tool for the wary neophyte? Can anyone make better bread using one of these machines?
Information
It has 19 bread maker settings or programs and provides a recipe for each of the settings.
The SKG Automatic Programmable Bread Machine is marketed as being beginner friendly, this is on their literature and it does seem like a fair claim, because this bread maker is incredibly easy-to-use.
Read any bread machine reviews and you’ll see that these machines do more than just make white bread. This one boasts the ability to even make corn bread and cake, which is notable. It comes in white or silver and is an unassuming unit with a small footprint. Aesthetically, the logo seems a little slapped on the front and less “designed” as it might be, but the unit is still pleasant enough to look at.
The loaves themselves are squarer rather than being a 3D rectangle, but you can still create 1, 1.5 or 2 lb. loaves and there are three crust colors available covering most tastes. It has 19 bread maker settings or programs and provides a recipe for each of the settings.
| length | 15 in |
|---|---|
| width | 13 in |
| height | 11 in |
| material | Plastic |
| color | Silver / White |
| energy consumption | 550 watts |
| weight capacity | 2 lbs |
| kneading paddle | Single |
| display | LCD display |
| automatic dispenser | Yes |
| delay timer | 15 hours |
| programmed settings | 19 preset, 3 crust |
| loaf sizes | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs |
| weight | 11.5 lbs |
| warranty | 2 years |
The buttons are set into the surface but are easy to use; on off, a menu button a color and weight buttons that plus up and down. It really couldn’t be much simpler. Interestingly, this SKG unit has suction cup feet – a mark of its vigorousness.
The delay function is up to 15 hours; longer than many which is a plus if you don’t want to distract from evening plans to prep the next morning’s loaf. It also provides 15 minutes of power interruption protection.
Lastly, the lid has a big clear window so you can watch exactly what happens and soothe beginner nerves.
Pros
There really is nothing nicer than warm bread. This machine will keep bread warm for up to an hour but still cool enough to take from the machine.
When you’re trying to assess a bread machine vs. a stand mixer and oven, it comes down to how much work you have to do, and what the bread maker takes off your shoulders. Here are some of the better features of this one.
- Accurate measuring cups and spoons come right in the box: The key for beginners is following the instructions to the letter. Being certain that you have the quantities of ingredients exactly right goes a long way to making good bread. Store them with the bread maker and don’t lose them.
- Control panel is well thought out and looks good: Apart from the niggle about the logo, this is a nice looking machine. It is one of the few (including expensive machines) that has a backlit Liquid Crystal Display making it easy to see. Maybe it is that beginner thing?
- Comes with a metal hook for lifting the blade: This is a nice idea. It helps keep the air that you have been so busy getting into the dough from coming out; the less you handle the dough the better. All you need do is a little reshaping.
- Range of products this machine can produce is huge: For a small machine the number of things that it will produce is quite amazing. You can use it to make yogurt as well as jam, and of course it will make lots of different types of bread including gluten free.
- Like some top end machines there’s a keep warm feature: There really is nothing nicer than warm bread. This machine will keep bread warm for up to an hour but still cool enough to take from the machine. Great for dinners when you want to serve hot but fresh bread.
- It really is friendly for beginners: What is nice about this SKG machine is it can be used successfully by a newbie. You can take it out of the box and abracadabra, bread. But it’s not limiting either. Once you’re used to it, you can branch out into other recipe books.
Cons
Sometimes the makers of a product think of solutions to their products. With this SKG model, for example, it has suction cups on the feet because it mixes with vigor. Here are some of the things that SKG didn’t get around to.
- Removable bread baking tin is unfortunately not dishwasher safe: This seems to be so easy to fix, and yet you can’t put it in the dishwasher. Nevertheless, the coating is non-stick so it is not a real hardship to wash it in warm water. It is just another thing to add to the to-do list.
- Bread maker recipe book and manual are not detailed: In some ways this allies with the desire to be extremely simple. There’s also no reason why you can’t use another recipe book and there are plenty out there. This is rather a “would have been nice” item rather than a problem.
- The machine isn’t quite set it and forget it: If you want to add nuts or fruit you must do it part way through the process. It simply means you have to be there at the right time to add them instead of putting them in a dispenser and leaving the machine to take care of it.
| Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| length | 15 in | 10.5 in | 9.6 in |
| width | 13 in | 18 in | 16.4 in |
| height | 11 in | 12.88 in | 13.3 in |
| material | Plastic | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
| color | Silver / White | Stainless steel / black | Stainless steel |
| energy consumption | 550 watts | 700 watts | 600 watts |
| weight capacity | 2 lbs | 2 lbs | 2 lbs |
| kneading paddle | Single | Double | Collapsible |
| display | LCD display | LCD display | LCD display |
| automatic dispenser | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| delay timer | 15 hours | 13 hours | 13 hours |
| programmed settings | 19 preset, 3 crust | 15 preset, 3 crust | 13 preset, 3 crust |
| loaf sizes | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs | 1-lbs, 1-1/2-lbs, 2-lbs, 2-1/2-lbs |
| weight | 11.5 lbs | 24 lbs | 16.85 lbs |
| warranty | 2 years | 1 year | 1 year |
Summary
The addition of the metal hook and measuring cups shows that SKG has thought a great deal about what makes a great bread maker because this unit is one of the best rated bread machines that you’ll find.
The SKG Automatic Programmable Bread Machine is a workhorse. It lives up to its billing as so easy to use that even a beginner can make bread. It produces lots of different types of bread and the addition of yoghurt to the mix is great.
The addition of the metal hook and measuring cups shows that SKG has thought a great deal about what makes a great bread maker because this unit is one of the best rated bread machines that you’ll find. The documentation might leave a little to be desired but there is a video online which helps.
The wide range of features that are often found in bigger machines means this unit punches way above its weight.
Sources
- Bread Machine, Transportation Security Administration
- West Bend Announce Breadmaker Recall, United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, Apr 20, 1995
- Wish Congratulations and Well-Being with Healthy Gifts, Tennessee State Government, May 31, 2006
- Whole Wheat Bread for Bread Machine, North Dakota State University, Feb 29, 2012
- No. 4 Universal Bread Maker, The National Museum of American History
- The Incredible Solar Bread Machine, Jila, Jan 4, 2011
- Bread machine, Wikipedia
- A Brief History of Bread, History, Dec 18, 2012
- The Serious Eats Glossary of New York Bread, Serious Eats, May 5, 2014
- Bread, Wikipedia
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