There are few smells in life that are quite as irresistible as freshly baked bread.
If you'd like your home to smell of baking, but don't fancy the leg (and arm) work; a bread maker will take the load off you.
There's a couple of things to consider before you invest - function, price and size are all important factors.
For what they can do, bread makers aren't the most compact gadgets, so if you're scarce for space at home it's something to think about.
If you want the 'easy' way to bake, we're not judging - we've rounded up some of the top picks from Amazon, Argos, John lewis and more below to help you get started.
Best bread makers 2020
1. Morphy Richards 502001 Homebake Breadmaker
For an appliance that can make a whole loaf of bread, the Morphy Richards Homebaker is fairly compact in size - making it ideal for smaller homes.
Bake up to 2lbs of loafy goodness with this machine, there are 14 different automatic programs that enable you to make more than just bread. For example, if ciabatta or croissants are more your thing, there's a program for it.
Using the quick bake option will give you a loaf in 90 minutes - that's 30 minutes longer than the Kenwood - but still by no means a long time. There's also a gluten free baking option so you can enjoy your favourite gluten free snacks with full peace of mind.
If you're like us and just can't wait till the finished product, a little viewing screen will let you have a cheeky peek before it's ready.
Considering the features of this bread maker compared to pricier models, it's a steal at £80.
Price: £99.99, Amazon - buy here now
2. Panasonic SD-ZX2522 Breadmaker
This bread maker from Panasonic is the priciest on our list, though a heavy price tag doesn't necessarily mean it's the best - but the range of cool features on this machine make it pretty darn close.
Choose from three different loaf sizes and crust colours to bake your perfect loaf, and you can also take advantage of the compote setting to rustle up your own spreads.
With over 15 bake settings, you can really make whatever your heart desires, so whether it's a rustic scone, a brioche bun or a gluten free cake - you can do it all with this machine. There are also different dough programs to make pasta, pizza and more.
Price: £239.99, John Lewis - buy here now
3. Panasonic SD-2501WXC Automated 25 Mode Breadmaker
It's a little on the clunky size, but if you're after a bread machine that will do everything and we mean everything; this one from Panasonic has over 25 automatic bake and dough settings.
As well as handy jam and compote modes, there's also a nut and additional items dispenser, which evenly distributes yummy extra with you needing to check.
Another handy feature which is inclusive to all is a 100% vegan mode. This mode allows you to bake gluten free loaves, using a wide range of gluten free bread ingredients.
Price: £139.95, Amazon - buy here now
4. Russell Hobbs Compact Bread Maker
Another great option for bread making novices, the Russell Hobbs compact bread maker, is just like it's name suggests: compact, meaning it's perfectly suitable for low space kitchens.
With 12 automatic settings you can enjoy gluten free baking options, as well as make jams or compotes.
The bread baking features are quite basic, don't expect to be able to make extravagant loaves with multi grains, this machine is really suited for people who just want to perfect the humble white or brown loaf.
Price: £59.99, John Lewis - buy here now
5. Morphy Richards 48281 Fastbake Breadmaker
If you're looking for a bread maker that can do pretty much everything and for a decent price - the Fastbake from Morphy Richards is one well worth considering.
Not only is it suitable for making compotes and cakes, automatic dough functions allow you to make pizza bases, rolls and speciality breads.
The gadget has a 12 hour delay timer, perfect for baking goodies overnight. If all of that wasn't enough, it can also bake a loaf in 50 minutes, (using a fast bake setting) which is quicker than any of the machines so far.
For under £60, you can't go wrong.
Price: £59.99, Argos - buy here now
6. Sage The Custom Loaf Bread Maker
The Sage bread maker has such a stylish appearance it looks like it belongs in a professionals kitchen. If you consider yourself quite the professional, this might be one for you.
Choose from four different loaf sizes: 500g, 750g, 1kg and 1.25kg and work your way through over 60 automatic programs that are sure to give you your desired loaf. With 60 settings we would hope there's a perfect loaf for everyone in this kitchen gadget.
Once you've sifted through the programs, you can also set up to 9 of your own, which lets you store your favourite recipes alongside the pre-programmed ones.
A chute will also automatically open so you are able to dispense your own bits and bobs inside, just as another way to get your desired taste.
Price: £199, John Lewis - buy here now
Looking for other quick fixes to your kitchen needs? Why not check out the best pressure cookers for easy and hearty meals in no time.
