This item is designed to toast two slice of bread or two bagels. But note: it is not designed to toast Pop Tarts, and other types of danish should not be placed in this toaster. The exterior of the toaster (its top and two sides) is metallic. This contributes to its contemporary design. But the slots for the bread seem a little short. I did not have this problem with my previous toaster oven. Additionally, the power cable is placed near the front of the toaster, which means part of the power cord is contiguous with the length of the toaster. In turn, this means the toaster will have to be placed very close to a power outlet. The part of my bread that I was able to toast, this machine worked well. Cutting slices of bread in half, however, defeats the purpose of a two-slice toaster.