Balmuda The Toaster Pro vs Hario V60 Drip Kettle (Stainless Steel)

Balmuda The Toaster Pro is a compact steam toaster oven built around an unusual mechanism: you pour a small measured amount of water into a cap on top, and the machine converts it to steam at the start of the cycle. The steam forms a thin layer of moisture on the bread surface, which sets quickly under heat, so the crust crisps while the interior stays soft and moist rather than drying out. Rather than a generic browning dial, it offers bread-specific modes for thick-cut white bread, standard toast, croissants and pizza, each running its own temperature curve. The Pro variant adds a salamander grill mode that fires the top element hard for browning and finishing, which is what separates it from the standard model. It is small, expensive and single-mindedly focused on doing bread well.

The Hario V60 Drip Kettle features a sleek stainless‑steel body and a gooseneck spout that delivers a controlled, steady stream for optimal extraction. Its 1‑liter capacity and 1500 W heating element make it ideal for single‑serve brewing or small batches. Designed with a comfortable, heat‑resistant handle and a built‑in water level window, this kettle offers both accuracy and ease of use. It’s a favorite among pour‑over baristas and home brewers seeking consistent temperature control and a professional look.

• Steam function makes a genuinely noticeable difference to bread texture
• Bread-specific modes handle croissants and thick-cut loaves far better than a browning dial
• Salamander mode adds real finishing capability for browning and glazing
• Distinctive, well-made design with straightforward analogue controls

• Precise gooseneck spout for accurate pouring
• Fast heating with 1500 W element
• Durable stainless‑steel body
• Clear water level indicator

• Very expensive for a two-slice toaster oven
• Small cavity limits it to bread and small items, not general cooking
• Requires pouring water in for every steam cycle, which is an extra step

• No temperature control display
• Limited to 1 L capacity
• No built‑in timer or smart features