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When we think of the world of gadgets, we normally think of tech devices or new kinds of tools. But kitchen appliances are also getting in on the act. Take, for example, the simple toaster.
Tokyo startup Balmuda shook the world in 2015 with a toaster that makes delicious toast every time. Balmuda’s “The Toaster” uses a combination of steam and temperature control to make every slice of toast crispy on the outside and moist in the middle.
The Toaster can even work its magic on day-old pizza, and doubles as a small oven. It makes stale bread taste delicious.
Balmuda says its toaster isn’t just a product, but an experience that enriches your senses. At ¥25,850, this experience isn’t cheap, and you’ll have to weigh the pluses and minuses yourself.
Though Balmuda’s toaster uses technology to make great toast, it isn’t a “smart” toaster. If that’s what you’re looking for, check out Revolution Cooking’s R180, which was released about a year ago in the U.S., and claims to already be the No. 1 smart toaster there.
The R180 has a big touch screen with easy-to-use menus to help you choose a browning level to suit your taste. Like Balmuda’s toaster, you can get the R180 to toast different baked goods, including English muffins, bagels, waffles and pastries. It also varies the temperature during the toasting to deliver the right level of browning. The screen displays a clock when it’s not in use.
Unlike Balmuda’s toaster, the R180 is a popup — so you can’t reheat pizza slices or make cheese on toast. Along with its price tag of close to ¥50,000 as an import (it’s not sold in Japan yet), that might be enough to give you some second thoughts. (T)
This article was provided by The Japan Times Alpha.