I have a large family so we go through a lot of toasters. Finally this one has stopped the search lasting longer than any other. You do still have to clean out the crumbs though. The soft touch buttons mean kids are no longer smashing down or up levers. No force no damage. It does seem to be more open allowing crumbs to fall rather than getting stuck on the way down. And after six months still toasts evenly and consistently. Still can be a bit off for first run (Just send it done for a warm up before the first toast). This is the best toaster I've had.