I love a toastie and probably have one a couple of times a week. I needed a new Sandwich Maker but don't like spending much because I know from experience that regardless of the price they don't really have a long life, it's not long before the non stick comes off and you end up with black bits on your toastie.

Looking in Argos a few months ago I spotted this Cookworks one on sale. The 2 slice toaster is currently still on sale at £7.89 where as the 4 slice version is £14.99. Doesn't seem dear, I usually buy Value Range ones for about £6-10 so seeing as how this was about the same price I decided I'd try it (it had to be better than value surely). After paying only £6 for the 2 slice at the time, I was pleased with my purchase and couldn't wait to give it a test drive.

The quality is good, it feels better than my usual. The appearance looks stylish in black plastic with a stainless steel top. There is red light to tell you it's on and a green light to tell you when it's ready. There is no switch or temperature control, you just plug it in but the previous ones I've had are the same. It is also cool wall but obviously it does get warm. In the box is the usual instruction leaflet.

The 2 slice is 600 watts.
The 4 slice is 1100 watts.
Handle locking clip.
Non-stick plates.
Power on indicator and ready light.
Easy to clean.
Stores upright.
Non-slip feet.

Performance:

After giving it a wipe down I got to work preparing my butty with the butter on the outside to stop it sticking. I switched it on it heats up really quickly so a good start. Of course a gripe with all cheap Sandwich Makers is that they just aren't big enough to fit an average sized sandwich which either has to be cut down or made one at a time side on, this Cookworks one is no exception. Having tried 2 sandwiches it is much better to do just one at a time, 2 makes it difficult to close and the filling is more likely to pour out the back of the machine and make a mess everywhere. The machine sandwiches the bread together well, and clips securely. It's quick enough, a few minutes is all that's required depending on your preference. The toasties come out nice and evenly toasted. Cleaning it isn't easy but there's no such thing as an easy clean with these things. I was pleased with the results and the non stick hadn't come away with repeated use which with Value makers I find start to lose their non stick within a few months.

but............

It broke within a few months, the locking clip snapped off without rough use. I just closed it as normal. Having a broken clip makes it impossible to use. So I'm back to Value.

I don't think I'd buy it again.