(checked 2026-10-10)
Most testers say this makes the best loaves of any machine, including gluten-free, in a normal sandwich-loaf shape. The catches are a price of around $400-460, a 24-pound body the size of a microwave, and two paddle holes in every loaf.
Top complaints
- Very expensive
Wirecutter says it usually costs around $400 and has only a one-year warranty, which is limited for the price. Food & Wine says it was the most expensive machine it tested, more than double the average. Amazon's summary says some owners feel it's not worth the money.
- Big and heavy
Wirecutter measures it at 10 by 18 inches and 24 pounds, about the size of a microwave. Serious Eats calls it big and heavy, and Food & Wine says you'll likely need to store it in a pantry or closet.
- Two paddle holes; paddles can stick
Wirecutter notes that two-paddle machines leave two holes in the bottom of the loaf. Amazon's summary says some owners report the paddles getting stuck.
What owners love
- Best loaves in multiple tests
Wirecutter's top pick since 2017 consistently made springier, lighter loaves than other machines. Serious Eats called its white bread truly exceptional, and Good Housekeeping says it was a top performer that would have been its best overall pick if it had been in stock.
- Standout gluten-free bread
Wirecutter says its gluten-free loaves were more thoroughly mixed and much less dense than other machines' loaves, and it was the only model that made something like bread from an outdated gluten-free recipe.
Source: Wirecutter - Lid heater, two paddles and sturdy pan
A second heating element in the lid gives even browning (Wirecutter, Serious Eats, The Spruce Eats). Wirecutter found the pan thicker and sturdier than most and says Zojirushi sells replacement pans (around $100) and blades.
- You bake only occasionally
- You're short on counter or storage space
- You want a quick-bread setting
- Frequent bakers who want the best loaf
- Gluten-free and whole wheat bread
- Classic horizontal sandwich loaves
Scores (tap for why)
What experts say
- Wirecutter (NYT): Top pick: it beat every machine tested on white, whole wheat and gluten-free loaves. It is large, heavy and expensive, with only a one-year warranty.
- Serious Eats: Best for consistent results: exceptional white bread and a nearly foolproof machine, but big, heavy and expensive.
- Food & Wine: Best splurge: the most even sourdough browning, with 15 settings including gluten-free. Only worth the price if you bake often.
- The Spruce Eats: Runner-up best overall: consistent results and even browning; its only listed drawback is the lack of a quick-bread setting.