Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus vs Cuisinart Compact
Based on tests by America's Test Kitchen (Aug 2026). How we score
Depends. Our pick is the Zojirushi Supreme.
Neither is our first choice. See Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus vs Zojirushi Supreme
From 1 tester: America's Test Kitchen
From 1 tester: America's Test Kitchen
Amazon prices as of Sep 30, 2:51 AM EDT (details)
What the testers found
America's Test Kitchen's Best Buy, rated Highly Recommended: "Most of the time, it produced picture-perfect loaves that had an even crumb and a pleasantly fluffy texture." Its pan is smaller and more cube-shaped, so 2-pound loaves can overflow on long-proof settings: "A 2-pound batch of dough rose too much on the whole wheat setting." "If you don't mind playing around with the settings for 2-pound loaves, this affordable machine is a great option." ATK didn't test long-term durability, and the listing doesn't state a warranty.
| Criterion | Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus | Cuisinart Compact |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 3/3 | 3/3 |
| Ease of use | 2.5/3 | 2.5/3 |
From America's Test Kitchen: The Best Bread Machines (updated Aug. 17, 2026)
Specs side by side
| Spec | Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus | Cuisinart Compact |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $454.95 | $129.95 |
| Cost per year | — | — |
| Warranty | — | — |
| Loaf | 1.5 to 2 lb, horizontal (America's Test Kitchen) | 1 to 2 lb, vertical (America's Test Kitchen) |
| Kneading paddles | 2 | 1 |
| Heating | Heated lid | — |
| Cycles | 15, including gluten free, vegan and salt free | 12, including gluten free |
| Pan | — | 6.25 x 5.5 x 6.5 in (America's Test Kitchen) |
Sources: America's Test Kitchen: The Best Bread Machines (updated Aug. 17, 2026), Manufacturer specs via Amazon listing
