Sage has launched a new range of toasters designed to eliminate burnt toast by using optic sensors that monitor the browning process in real time. The Eye Q Auto toaster range assesses the colour of bread 10 times every second and automatically stops once the shade selected by the user is reached.
The range includes two models: the Eye Q 850 Auto 2 Slice, priced at £279.95 for the Noir finish or £249.95 for Brushed Stainless Steel, and the larger Eye Q 870 Auto 4 Slice, which costs £399.95 for Noir or £349.95 for Brushed Stainless Steel. Instead of setting a conventional timer, customers choose from seven different shades using the Toast Shade Selector.
How the Eye Q toaster works
The Eye Q's optic sensors are powered by Sage's Sensability Technology, which tracks colour changes in the bread continuously. This allows the toaster to raise the toast automatically once the preferred level of browning is achieved, removing the need for users to check on their toast repeatedly.
The toaster also adapts to different types of bread. A dedicated Sourdough Mode is designed for artisanal loaves with thicker crusts and denser centres, while Crumpet Mode directs additional heat towards the face of a crumpet for more even browning. For those who prefer darker toast, the 'A Bit More' function provides an extra touch of browning.
Additional features and cleaning
The Timer Mode disables the optic sensors and allows the appliance to operate using conventional timed heating, which is suitable for warming pastries and other treats. The toaster automatically lowers and raises bread for hands-free use and can accommodate frozen bread without a separate defrost setting.
Sage has also focused on ease of cleaning. A non-stick ceramic-coated top prevents crumbs from baking onto the surface, while the Clearway Cavity directs crumbs down into a removable Catch All Crumb Tray. Both models include integrated cord storage to keep kitchen worktops tidy.
Customer feedback and alternatives
While there are no direct reviews for the new Sage toasters yet, customers have shared their experiences with the brand on Trustpilot. One individual commented: "Very satisfied with the resolution to an issue with a great product. The 4-slice smart toaster is streets ahead of its competition."
Another customer said: "I own a Sage toaster and Sage Barista Express coffee machine, which have been fantastic for many years. Needed some further advice, so phoned Sage for a second time in a week, needing to check something and was assisted by Hope, who was fantastic." They added: "She was superbly friendly, knowledgeable, had a great sense of humour and offered excellent customer service. In addition to the call, Hope also emailed me with the guidance."
Some customers had minor reservations, with one noting: "Good customer service. The faulty toaster was replaced immediately. Although it did take a while to set up the online account to facilitate this." Overall, the majority were pleased, as another customer remarked: "Very easy to deal with, everyone we spoke to was professional and friendly, answering all of our questions. The order processing was quick and efficient, and the new toaster arrived within a day of ordering it. What a great product, what a great service - thank you."
For those considering alternatives, the KitchenAid Artisan 2-Slice Toaster in ink blue is available for £269 at Currys, offering a defrost function, extra-wide slots, a bagel function and a reheat option. Robert Dyas stocks the Zwilling Enfinigy Toaster in black for £148.99, which features four slots, eight separate heating elements and balanced heat distribution. The new Eye Q Auto toaster range is available to purchase directly from Sage.
