Variable browning works between all ranges White-Light Brown-Burnt Black. Setting of 2-3 should be good enough for most people. The outside body does remain cold and touchable. Speed of toasting is amazing, we were done with 12 toasts in 3-4 minutes, with the bread out of the fridge just before toasting. The spring only latches in only if the machine is powered, that is a new feature for me. Build quality is also very nice as compared to other toasters which I had seen in the market. Matt finish on the product helps as it does not get with butter stains or finger prints.