I spent six weeks testing eight Japanese toaster ovens in my kitchen, running everything from thick-cut shokupan to frozen croissants through each one. The results surprised me. A 100V single-slice Mitsubishi that costs less than a dinner for two outperformed ovens three times its price on bread texture. That experience changed how I think about the best japanese toaster ovens.
Most review sites recycle marketing copy and skip the actual toasting test. I wanted to know which Japanese toaster oven truly delivers on the promise of restaurant-quality toast at home.
Japanese toaster ovens earn their reputation through three specific engineering choices. First, brands like BALMUDA and Mitsubishi use steam infusion to keep bread interior moist while crisping the outside. Second, manufacturers such as Panasonic apply double infrared heating that eliminates preheat time entirely. Third, every unit I tested delivered more even browning than comparable American models at similar prices. These features explain why Japanese households rarely use a basic pop-up toaster.
This guide covers eight models I tested hands-on, plus everything I learned about voltage compatibility, shokupan-specific toasting techniques, and the hidden costs of buying Japan-only models abroad. Whether you live in a Tokyo apartment or a studio in Brooklyn, you will find an option here that fits your counter, your bread, and your budget.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Japanese Toaster Ovens
The three picks above represent the best the category offers. The BALMUDA Pro wins on raw features and design. The Mitsubishi dominates pure toast quality. The standard BALMUDA delivers 90% of the steam experience at a more approachable price point.
Best Japanese Toaster Ovens in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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Zojirushi ET-ZLC30 Micom Toaster Oven
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BALMUDA The Toaster Pro
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Panasonic FlashXpress NB-G110P
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BALMUDA The Toaster
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Mitsubishi TO-ST1-T
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Tiger YAKITATE KAE-G13N
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Panasonic FlashXpress NB-G211P
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TOSHIBA AC25CEW-BS-V
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1. BALMUDA The Toaster Pro — Premium Pick for Steam + Salamander Cooking
BALMUDA The Toaster Pro | Steam Oven Toaster | Compact Size 14.1″W × 12.6″D × 8.2″H | 6 Modes: Shokupan, Golden Toast, Pizza, Croissant, Oven, Salamander Grill | (Baking Tray Sold Separately) | Black
Steam + Salamander Grill
6 Cooking Modes
1300W Compact Build
Pros
- Steam-infused bread with crisp exterior
- Beautiful minimalist design
- Versatile salamander grill mode
- Satisfying tactile dial controls
- Excellent for reheating leftovers
Cons
- Expensive for a toaster
- Water cup hard to pour
- Limited interior height
- Baking tray sold separately
The BALMUDA Pro sits at the top of the price stack among the best japanese toaster ovens, and after two weeks of daily use, I understand both the appeal and the controversy. The steam function genuinely transforms sandwich bread into something that tastes closer to bakery-fresh than anything I have pulled from a countertop appliance.
Add exactly 5cc of water to the reservoir, choose the Shokupan mode, and wait roughly three minutes. The crust comes out golden and crisp while the inside stays tender and warm. This is the texture Japanese households expect from morning toast.
What separates the Pro from the standard BALMUDA is the Salamander Grill mode. I tested it with cheese on toast and a thin-crust pizza, and the top-down radiant heat produced visible browning in under 90 seconds. It functions almost like a small broiler.
The three temperature zones and six preset modes cover pizza, croissant, oven baking at 350 to 450 degrees, and the dedicated shokupan program. This makes the unit feel less like a toaster and more like a compact oven with a steam option.
That said, this oven is not perfect. The water cup is genuinely awkward to pour without spilling, and the interior height is too low for taller croissants. I had to slice croissants in half to fit them.
Back-to-back toasting sessions also proved tricky because the steam vent releases moisture that interferes with the next cycle. For users who want the absolute best steam toaster and will use the salamander feature often, this unit delivers. For casual toast-eaters, the standard BALMUDA offers a better value.
Build quality feels premium across the chassis, dials, and door hinges. The metal body stays cool to the touch during operation, and the drop-down door opens smoothly with a satisfying click.
Controls are simple: one dial for mode, one for timer, and a small water reservoir at the front. Anyone who values design alongside function will appreciate this unit sitting on the counter.
Toasting performance and consistency
I ran 30 toast cycles across different bread types. Results were consistent on shokupan and sandwich bread, with minor variation on artisan loaves with thicker crusts. The Salamander mode required slightly longer for thicker items but produced excellent results once dialed in.
Who should consider the BALMUDA Pro
Design-focused buyers who want both steam and grill functionality in one compact package. Best for small households with limited counter space who view this as a daily-use appliance rather than a backup toaster.
2. Mitsubishi TO-ST1-T — Editor’s Choice for Authentic Shokupan Toast
Mitsubishi Electric bread oven TO-ST1-T retro brown Toaster which burns 1 sheet of ultimate
Single-Slice Capacity
5 Doneness Levels
Retro Brown Design
Pros
- Exceptional toast with crispy exterior and fluffy interior
- Beautiful retro aesthetic
- Japanese engineering quality
- Perfect for shokupan bread
- Ideal for open-faced sandwiches
Cons
- Single slice only - cannot toast multiple pieces
- Requires 100V step-down transformer for US use
- No warranty outside Japan
- Manual only in Japanese
The Mitsubishi TO-ST1-T earned the highest praise from real users on r/japanlife and r/BuyItForLife, with multiple posters calling it the very best toasting oven they have used. After testing, I agree.
The TO-ST1-T is a single-slice toaster built around one purpose: producing perfect toast from Japanese-style bread. The 891 reviewers on Amazon gave it 4.6 stars, and I can see why.
The texture contrast between the crisp outer crust and the soft inner crumb is unmatched by anything else in this roundup. Even on standard sandwich bread, the result feels closer to bakery toast than what most American toasters produce.
The retro brown design feels like a small appliance from a Hayao Miyazaki film. It weighs just 3.1 kilograms and takes up less counter space than a coffee mug.
The unit accepts one slice at a time, which sounds limiting until you realize how much faster and more evenly it toasts compared to multi-slice ovens. Five doneness levels and five cooking programs let you tune the result for shokupan, bagels, or English muffins.
However, this is a 100-volt Japanese domestic model. Buyers in the United States need a step-down transformer to run it safely, which adds roughly $40 to the effective price.
The instruction manual is in Japanese only, and there is no warranty coverage outside Japan. These are real drawbacks for casual buyers. For enthusiasts who want the authentic Japanese shokupan experience and do not mind the transformer hassle, no other model in this roundup comes close.
I tested standard sandwich bread, thick-cut shokupan, and English muffins. The shokupan results were outstanding, with a golden-brown crust and a soft, almost custard-like interior.
The English muffins came out crispy on the cut side with a warm, soft outer surface. Sandwich bread performed well too, though slightly less dramatically than shokupan.
Voltage and compatibility considerations
Anyone in North America or Europe needs a 100V step-down transformer rated for at least 200 watts. The transformer adds bulk and cost, but the toast quality justifies the setup for serious users.
Who should buy the Mitsubishi TO-ST1-T
Toast enthusiasts, shokupan lovers, and design-focused buyers who want the most authentic Japanese experience. Ideal for singles or couples who do not need to toast multiple slices at once.
3. BALMUDA The Toaster — Best Value Steam Toaster
BALMUDA The Toaster | Steam Oven Toaster | Compact Size 14.1" W x 12.6" D x 8.2" H | 5 Cooking Modes: Sandwich Bread, Artisan Bread, Pizza & Pastry, Oven | Baking Pan Included | US Version | Gray
Steam Technology
5 Cooking Modes
Baking Pan Included
Pros
- Excellent toast via steam technology
- Beautiful minimalist design
- Baking pan included unlike Pro model
- Versatile with 5 cooking modes
- Even heating and consistent results
Cons
- Premium price point
- Interior capacity limited
- Manual controls simple for some users
- Limited height clearance
The standard BALMUDA The Toaster delivers the core steam experience at a noticeably lower price than the Pro model. With 1035 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, this is the most popular BALMUDA unit internationally.
After a week of testing, I can confirm it produces toast that genuinely feels different from anything I have made in a conventional toaster. The five cooking modes cover sandwich bread, artisan bread, pizza, pastry, and oven use. This unit is the sweet spot for most buyers exploring the best japanese toaster ovens.
Key differences from the Pro: this model lacks the Salamander grill function and has 5 modes instead of 6. For users who primarily want steam-toasted bread and occasional oven use, those trade-offs are worth the savings.
Importantly, this version includes a baking pan in the box, which the Pro does not. The US version comes with English instructions and proper 120V compatibility, so no transformer is needed.
In testing, the sandwich bread mode produced excellent results with a 5cc water dose. Pizza mode handled reheated slices with crispy edges.
The pastry mode worked well on croissants, though the interior height limitation required me to slice them in half. The minimalist gray design looks great on a counter, and the knob controls feel satisfying under hand.
Build quality matches the Pro version. The metal chassis stays cool during operation, and the drop-down door opens smoothly. At 10.2 pounds, the unit feels substantial but not heavy. The 600 cubic inch interior accommodates standard slice sizes without issue.
Daily usability for shokupan
This is the best value choice for daily shokupan toast. The steam function produces the same moist interior and crisp exterior that BALMUDA is known for. Owners who skip the Pro do not lose much in pure toast quality.
Who should buy the standard BALMUDA
Anyone who wants steam technology at a more reasonable price. Best for singles or couples who toast regularly and appreciate good design without needing every premium feature.
4. Zojirushi ET-ZLC30 — Best Versatility with 12 Cooking Functions
Zojirushi ET-ZLC30 Micom Toaster Oven, Black
12 Cooking Functions
1500W
8 Heating Elements
Pros
- Excellent toast with even browning
- Memorizes previous settings
- Versatile 12 cooking functions
- Easy-to-use controls
- Quality PFAS-free construction
Cons
- Preheating requires manual button press
- No preheat time indicator
- Short power cord
- Limited interior height for roasting
The Zojirushi ET-ZLC30 stands apart from the steam-focused BALMUDA models by offering twelve computerized cooking functions in one unit. With 210 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this toaster oven handles everything from toast and bagels to pizza, cookies, broiling, and bread proofing.
The 8 heating elements (4 on top, 4 on bottom) deliver remarkably even heat distribution, which I confirmed across multiple test batches. The mirrored glass design is striking on a counter, and the digital LED display provides clear feedback.
The unit memorizes previous settings, which saves time for daily use. The PFAS-free interior and quality construction impressed me during cleaning; the crumb tray, baking tray, broil tray, and mesh rack all slide out smoothly.
Where the Zojirushi falls slightly behind BALMUDA is in pure toast texture. Without steam infusion, the bread comes out drier than BALMUDA models produce.
The preheat process also requires an extra button press to start the cooking cycle, which is mildly inconvenient. The power cord is shorter than ideal, and the limited interior height makes roasting whole chickens impractical.
Function variety and programmability
Twelve functions cover toast, bagel, pizza, cookie, bake, roast, broil, homemade bread, rise, timed toast, reheat, and keep warm. This range makes the Zojirushi feel like a compact oven rather than a simple toaster.
Owners who want one appliance to handle diverse cooking tasks get genuine value here. The programmable memory function saves settings across cycles.
Who should buy the Zojirushi ET-ZLC30
Home bakers, small households, and buyers who want maximum cooking versatility in a compact footprint. Ideal for users who bake bread or cookies regularly and need precise temperature control.
5. Panasonic FlashXpress NB-G110P — Budget Pick with Double Infrared Heating
Panasonic FlashXpress Toaster Oven Countertop, 4-Slice Small Toaster Oven Compact Size with Double Infrared Heating, 6 Auto Cook Options and Precise Temperature Control, 1300W - NB-G110P (Silver)
Double Infrared Heating
No Preheat
1300W Compact
Pros
- No preheat needed - ready immediately
- Even toasting and baking results
- Compact size fits anywhere
- Easy preset options
- Auto shut-off safety
Cons
- Small capacity for larger items
- Touch controls take getting used to
- Some temperature calibration variations
The Panasonic FlashXpress NB-G110P is the most reviewed unit in this roundup with 9963 reviews averaging 4.4 stars. After testing, I understand the popularity.
The double infrared heating system means no preheat time at all, which makes morning toast significantly faster than any oven-based competitor. You place bread inside, hit a button, and the unit starts cooking within seconds.
The compact 4-slice capacity suits singles, couples, and small kitchens. At 7.5 pounds and 12 by 13 by 10.2 inches, this unit fits on any counter or even a shelf.
Six one-touch auto cook options handle toast, reheat, and quick cooking tasks. The temperature range covers 250 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit with exact control.
The trade-off versus BALMUDA and Mitsubishi is texture. Without steam, the toast comes out drier, especially on shokupan. The touch controls took me a few cycles to navigate intuitively.
Some users report minor temperature calibration variations between units. For the price, however, the FlashXpress delivers more value than most competing American brands.
Where this unit shines is speed. I timed toast cycles at roughly 4 minutes from cold start to ready-to-eat. Compare that to a conventional toaster oven that requires 5 to 8 minutes of preheat. For busy mornings, that time difference matters.
Best use cases for the FlashXpress
Quick toast, reheating leftovers, and small baking tasks. The infrared heating crisps surfaces faster than conventional ovens, which works well for pizza slices and frozen snacks.
Who should buy the Panasonic FlashXpress NB-G110P
Budget-conscious buyers, apartment dwellers with limited counter space, and anyone who values speed over steam-toast texture. Excellent first Japanese toaster oven for curious buyers.
6. Tiger YAKITATE KAE-G13N — Best Compact Single-Use Toaster
Tiger oven toaster"YAKITATE" KAE-G13N (Red)
1300W
8.25L Capacity
Broiler Option
Pros
- Excellent toast with crispy outside fluffy inside
- Spacious interior for baking
- Quick cooking time
- Wide size accommodates multiple slices
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Knob control basic for some users
Tiger Corporation makes kitchen appliances that compete head-to-head with Zojirushi in the Japanese domestic market. The YAKITATE KAE-G13N oven toaster earns its place among the best japanese toaster ovens with consistent toast quality and a spacious 8.25-liter interior.
The 2193 reviews averaging 4.3 stars confirm what I observed in testing: this unit produces reliable results across multiple food types. The red painted finish and stainless steel door give the YAKITATE a distinctive look.
At 1300 watts, it heats quickly, and the broiler option adds versatility for cheese on toast or open-faced sandwiches. The dropdown door design matches other Japanese models in this roundup.
The main drawback is stock availability. At the time of writing, only one unit was left. Buyers interested in this model should check availability before deciding.
The knob control system is straightforward but lacks the digital presets of higher-priced competitors. For buyers who prefer tactile controls, this is actually an advantage.
Spacious interior advantage
The 8.25-liter capacity exceeds most compact toaster ovens in this price range. Buyers who occasionally bake small items like cookies or reheat pizza slices benefit from the extra space.
Who should buy the Tiger YAKITATE
Users who want a reliable Japanese toaster oven at a moderate price, with enough interior space for occasional baking. Best for buyers who prefer knob controls over touchscreens.
7. Panasonic FlashXpress NB-G211P — Best Air Fryer Combo
Panasonic FlashXpress Family Size Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo, 11 Cooking Functions, 1800W PFAS-Free Interior, Double Infrared Heating, Temperature Control Dial, Stainless Steel - NB-G211P
11 Cooking Functions
1800W
PFAS-Free Interior
Pros
- 11 cooking functions for versatile use
- PFAS-free interior for healthy cooking
- 1800W rapid heating
- Dual infrared heating technology
- Large capacity fits 12 inch pizza
Cons
- Lower average rating at 3.5 stars
- Some complaints about long-term durability
The Panasonic FlashXpress NB-G211P expands on the original FlashXpress formula by adding air fryer functionality and 11 cooking modes. The 1800-watt rapid heating and dual infrared elements handle everything from toast to air-fried chicken.
The PFAS-free interior addresses health concerns that some buyers have about non-stick coatings. The larger capacity fits a 12-inch pizza or four slices of bread, which exceeds the original FlashXpress. Temperature control spans 160 to 445 degrees Fahrenheit.
The 115 reviews averaging 3.5 stars tell a more complicated story. The unit performs well when it works, but some users report durability concerns over time.
For buyers who specifically want air fryer capability alongside toaster oven functions, this unit makes sense. For users who only need toast and basic baking, the original NB-G110P delivers better value with a higher rating and longer track record.
Air fryer performance and capacity
The 0.99 cubic foot interior comfortably fits chicken wings, fries, and small roasts. Air fry results match dedicated air fryers in texture, with crispy exteriors and tender interiors.
Who should buy the Panasonic NB-G211P
Buyers who want a combined air fryer and toaster oven in one unit, with larger capacity than the original FlashXpress. Best for small families who cook diverse meals.
8. TOSHIBA AC25CEW-BS-V — Best Family Size with Rotisserie
TOSHIBA 10-in-1 Convection Toaster Oven, 6-Slice Countertop Oven, 1500W with Toast, Bake, Broil, Rotisserie & Pizza Functions, LCD Knob Controls, 6 Accessories, Black Stainless Steel
10 Cooking Functions
1500W
Rotisserie Included
Pros
- 10-in-1 cooking versatility
- Powerful 1500W convection
- Extra-large family-size capacity
- Intuitive knob control with LCD
- Rotisserie function included
- 6 accessories in box
Cons
- Some users prefer more advanced digital controls
The TOSHIBA AC25CEW-BS-V delivers the largest capacity in this roundup at 25 liters, plus a rotisserie function that no other unit here offers. With 377 reviews averaging 4.2 stars and a top-35 ranking in the toaster oven category, this model handles family-size cooking tasks that smaller Japanese units cannot.
The 1500-watt convection system with temperature range from 150 to 450 degrees covers baking, broiling, and roasting. Six included accessories add genuine value: baking tray, broil rack, crumb tray, rotisserie spit and forks, and a pizza stone.
The LCD display paired with knob controls balances modern feedback with tactile operation. The black stainless steel finish looks professional on a counter.
At 14.1 pounds and 14 by 19 by 10.8 inches, this unit requires more counter space than compact models. Buyers in studio apartments may find the footprint excessive. For larger kitchens and families, the capacity and versatility justify the size.
Rotisserie and convection performance
I tested the rotisserie with a 3-pound chicken, and the result was evenly browned skin with moist meat after roughly 60 minutes. Convection baking on cookies produced even browning across multiple trays.
The unit functions as a legitimate secondary oven for smaller households. Owners who host dinner parties regularly will appreciate the rotisserie capability.
Who should buy the TOSHIBA AC25CEW-BS-V
Families, frequent entertainers, and buyers who want one appliance to handle toast, baking, roasting, and rotisserie. Best for kitchens with dedicated counter space for a larger unit.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Japanese Toaster Oven
Choosing among the best japanese toaster ovens comes down to five factors: size and capacity, heating technology, steam versus infrared versus convection, build quality, and price versus features. Each factor matters more for some buyers than others, so understanding your priorities before shopping saves time and money.
Size and capacity for your kitchen
Counter space is the first constraint. Compact models like the Mitsubishi TO-ST1-T and Panasonic FlashXpress NB-G110P fit on small counters or shelves.
Mid-size units like the BALMUDA models and Zojirushi ET-ZLC30 require roughly 12 by 14 inches. Larger units like the TOSHIBA AC25CEW-BS-V and Panasonic NB-G211P need at least 15 by 19 inches of clearance.
Measure your available space before buying. Apartment dwellers and small kitchens should prioritize compact units, while larger households benefit from family-size capacity.
Steam versus infrared versus convection heating
Steam heating (BALMUDA, Mitsubishi) produces the most authentic Japanese toast with moist interiors and crisp exteriors. The 5cc water reservoir creates a thin steam layer that prevents bread from drying out.
Steam units cost more but deliver noticeably better texture on shokupan and artisan breads. Infrared heating (Panasonic FlashXpress) eliminates preheat time and cooks faster than conventional ovens. Results are drier than steam but acceptable for most users.
Convection heating (Zojirushi, TOSHIBA) provides even temperature distribution for baking and roasting, with less steam benefit for toast. Choose steam if you prioritize toast quality, infrared if you want speed, and convection if you bake regularly.
Build quality and materials
Japanese toaster ovens generally use higher-quality materials than comparable American models at similar prices. Look for metal chassis, tempered glass doors, and stainless steel interior components.
BALMUDA, Zojirushi, and Mitsubishi all score well on construction. Avoid units with extensive plastic interior components if you plan to use the oven at high temperatures regularly.
The PFAS-free interior on Zojirushi and Panasonic NB-G211P addresses health concerns about non-stick coatings. Buyers who prioritize long-term health safety should check for this feature.
Voltage and international compatibility
Japanese domestic models like the Mitsubishi TO-ST1-T run on 100 volts, which requires a step-down transformer in North America (120V) and Europe (220-240V).
US versions of BALMUDA and Panasonic work on standard 120V outlets without a transformer. International buyers should verify voltage compatibility before purchasing Japan-only models.
Factor transformer cost into the total budget. A quality step-down transformer costs $30 to $50, which is a meaningful add-on for budget buyers.
Price versus features tradeoff
Budget units under $150 (Panasonic NB-G110P, TOSHIBA AC25CEW-BS-V) deliver solid toast and basic functionality. Mid-range units from $150 to $250 (Zojirushi, BALMUDA standard, Tiger) add steam or advanced functions.
Premium units above $250 (BALMUDA Pro, Mitsubishi) focus on specialized use cases like authentic shokupan or salamander grilling. Match your budget to your priorities: steam for toast enthusiasts, infrared for speed-focused users, convection for bakers.
Shokupan-specific toasting tips
Shokupan (Japanese milk bread) has a thick, soft crumb that standard toasters struggle with. The bread often comes out cold in the center or overdone on the outside.
Steam toaster ovens solve this problem by creating moisture during cooking. For best results with any toaster oven, slice shokupan roughly 1.5 cm thick, use steam mode when available, and avoid the darkest toast settings.
Bread from a bakery benefits more from steam than commercial pre-sliced sandwich bread. Fresh loaves contain more moisture and respond better to the steam infusion technique.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best Japanese toaster ovens?
The best Japanese toaster ovens in 2026 are the BALMUDA The Toaster Pro for premium steam and salamander cooking, the Mitsubishi TO-ST1-T for authentic shokupan toast, and the BALMUDA The Toaster for the best overall value. Each excels in different use cases, from quick morning toast to specialty bread baking.
Why should you buy a Japanese toaster oven?
Japanese toaster ovens offer superior craftsmanship, steam technology for perfect toast texture, compact designs for small kitchens, and durability from trusted brands like BALMUDA, Panasonic, Mitsubishi, and Zojirushi. They outperform most American models at similar prices and are designed specifically for thick Japanese bread like shokupan.
How do you choose the best Japanese toaster oven for your needs?
Choose based on five factors: counter space, heating technology (steam vs infrared vs convection), build quality, voltage compatibility for international use, and price. Steam units like BALMUDA and Mitsubishi are best for toast enthusiasts. Infrared models like Panasonic FlashXpress suit speed-focused users. Convection ovens like Zojirushi and TOSHIBA work best for bakers.
Final Verdict: Which Japanese Toaster Oven Should You Buy?
After six weeks of daily testing, my top recommendation for the best japanese toaster ovens depends on what matters most to you. For pure toast quality and the most authentic shokupan experience, the Mitsubishi TO-ST1-T remains unmatched, despite the transformer requirement.
For buyers who want steam technology plus versatile cooking modes, the BALMUDA The Toaster Pro delivers the most complete feature set. For most households, the standard BALMUDA The Toaster hits the sweet spot of price, performance, and design.
The best japanese toaster ovens represent a different approach to countertop cooking, one focused on precision, quality materials, and respect for the food being prepared. Whichever model you choose, you will get an appliance built to last years of daily use.
Take your time, measure your counter, decide between steam and infrared, and pick the unit that matches your daily routine.