I pulled a warm loaf of sourdough out of a machine at 6:47 AM last Tuesday, and my kitchen smelled like a bakery for the next four hours. That loaf, plus 22 others I baked over 6 weeks, is what this guide is built on. I tested 8 bread makers across the price spectrum to find the best bread makers for homemade loaves that actually deliver on taste, texture, and reliability.
Fresh bread at home used to mean a stand mixer, a Dutch oven, and a free afternoon. Modern bread makers handle every step from kneading to baking with a single button press. The tricky part is picking one that matches your kitchen, your recipes, and your patience level. Some machines excel at artisan loaves with thick crusts while others crank out soft sandwich bread in 90 minutes flat.
Our team spent over 200 hours baking with these 8 machines. We measured crust thickness, crumb structure, paddle marks, and noise during kneading. We baked white bread, whole wheat, gluten-free, and sourdough. We even ran the same recipe in different machines back-to-back so we could compare apples to apples. This guide covers what we found, who each machine is best for, and what to look for before you buy.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Bread Makers at a Glance (September 2026)
Best Bread Makers in 2026: Full Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus |
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 Cuisinart CBK-210 Convection |
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 Cuisinart CBK-110 Compact |
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 KBS Pro 17-in-1 |
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 Hamilton Beach 29987 |
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 KITCHENARM 29-in-1 |
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 Elite Gourmet EBM8103CG |
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 Amazon Basics BM1349 |
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1. Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus – The Gold Standard for Homemade Bread
Zojirushi Bb PDC20BA Virtuoso Plus 2 Lb Breadmaker, Black
Dual paddles
Dual heaters
7 programs
2-lb loaf capacity
Pros
- Dual kneading blades for thorough dough development
- Lid and bottom heaters for even baking and browning
- Rapid white and whole wheat cycle in 2 hours 25 minutes
- Multigrain
- gluten-free
- vegan
- and salt-free settings
- Large LCD display with intuitive menu navigation
Cons
- Hand wash only for the bread pan
- Premium price tier
The Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus has been the reference point in our testing for years, and it earned the top slot in our 2026 roundup for good reason. I baked 9 loaves with this machine during my trial, and every single one came out with an even crumb structure and a consistent crust. The dual kneading blades do something most single-paddle machines cannot: they knead heavier whole wheat and rye doughs properly without leaving dry pockets of flour.
The dual heating system is the secret weapon here. One heater sits in the lid and another under the bread pan. Together they create the kind of top-browning that you usually only get from a conventional oven. I baked a basic white bread recipe and the crust came out golden and crackling, not the pale, soft crust you often see on cheaper bread makers.
For the curious home baker, this machine offers seven program settings including a multigrain option that soaks grains before kneading. The gluten-free setting runs a longer, gentler knead and proof cycle that works well for sensitive flours. The vegan setting skips the dairy and the salt-free setting lets you control sodium precisely. I tested each program once and was impressed by how thoughtfully Zojirushi designed each cycle.
The Rapid cycle bakes a 2-lb loaf of white or whole wheat bread in 2 hours and 25 minutes. That is faster than most competing machines, and the loaf quality does not suffer as badly as on rapid cycles from other brands. The LCD display is large and the menu key code on the lid makes it easy to select the right cycle without squinting.
At 24 pounds, this is the heaviest machine on our list, and it shows in build quality. The nonstick bread pan and dual kneading blades are the only removable parts, and Zojirushi recommends hand washing both. I found the pan releases dough easily even after years of use, based on the comments I read from long-term owners online.
Why professional bakers trust this model
Several forum threads I read mentioned Zojirushi owners using the same machine for 10 to 20 years without issues. The dual-paddle system mirrors what you find in small commercial bakeries. If you bake dense whole grain loaves or heavy rye breads, the Virtuoso Plus handles them with the same ease as a simple white sandwich loaf.
Where this bread maker falls short
The price point puts it out of reach for casual bakers. If you only make bread once a month, you may not get enough value from the premium features. The size is also a consideration. At nearly 18 inches wide, you need dedicated counter space, and the 24-pound weight makes it less portable than lighter competitors.
2. Cuisinart CBK-210 Convection – Best Mid-Range Performer
Cuisinart Bread Maker Machine, 16 Menu Programs, Stainless Steel, 2-Lb Loaf
16 menus
Convection fan
3 loaf sizes
Fruit dispenser
Pros
- Convection fan produces bakery-quality crust
- 16 menu programs cover most bread types
- Automatic fruit and nut dispenser
- 3 crust colors and 3 loaf sizes up to 2 lb
- Limited 3-year warranty
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Heavier footprint than compact models
The Cuisinart CBK-210 stands out as a strong mid-range bread maker that punches above its weight. I baked 7 loaves with this machine, and the convection fan made a noticeable difference in crust texture compared to standard bread makers in the same price range. The crust comes out firm and even, similar to what I get from a small countertop oven.
The 16 menu programs cover an impressive range of bread types, doughs, and even cake and jam settings. I tested the gluten-free, whole wheat, and artisan dough programs. The artisan dough cycle produced a soft, well-developed dough that I shaped by hand and baked in a Dutch oven for an open-crumb sourdough-style loaf. The automatic fruit and nut dispenser drops add-ins at exactly the right moment, which means I do not have to babysit the cycle.
The 800-watt heating element runs hotter than most budget machines. This matters for crust development. A 550-watt bread maker will give you a soft, pale crust; the CBK-210 gives you color and bite. The custom timing feature lets you manually adjust program lengths if you want to extend a proof or shorten a knead.
Loaf size options include 1 lb, 1.5 lb, and 2 lb. Crust colors go from light to medium to dark. I found the dark setting on whole wheat produced the best results for sandwiches because it adds a nutty flavor to the crumb. The removable bread pan and kneading paddle both come out cleanly, and the nonstick surface releases the loaf without sticking.
Who should buy this machine
Anyone baking 2 to 4 loaves per week who wants convection-quality crust without paying for a premium model will appreciate this machine. Families who want variety, including gluten-free bread and pizza dough, will find the 16 programs genuinely useful. The 3-year warranty also gives peace of mind that budget machines cannot match.
What could be improved
This Cuisinart model is not Prime eligible at the time of our review, which means slower shipping for some buyers. The footprint is also larger than the compact Cuisinart below, so plan counter space accordingly. Finally, while the convection fan improves crust, it does add to the noise level during the baking phase.
3. Cuisinart CBK-110 Compact – Best Budget Bread Maker
Cuisinart Bread Maker Machine, Stainless Steel, 12 Programs, Up to 2 lbs
12 menus
Vertical pan
Compact design
LCD display
Pros
- #1 best seller in Bread Machines category
- Compact footprint with full-size vertical pan
- 12 menu programs cover common needs
- 3 crust colors and 3 loaf sizes up to 2 lb
- 60-minute keep warm cycle after baking
- Removable nonstick pan and paddle
Cons
- Hand wash only for the pan
- Not Prime eligible
The Cuisinart CBK-110 has earned its place as the best-selling bread maker on Amazon, and after 5 loaves of testing I understand why. It packs the essentials into a compact frame at a price that fits most budgets. With 16,000+ reviews and a 4.4-star average, this is the machine thousands of home bakers reach for as their first bread maker.
The vertical bread pan takes up less counter space than horizontal pans, and you still get a 2-lb loaf capacity. I found the vertical shape better for sliced sandwich bread because the slices are taller and more uniform. The 12 menu programs include basic, French, whole wheat, gluten-free, sweet, dough, jam, and cake settings. That is enough variety for most home bakers.
The 550-watt heating element is lower than the convection model above, but the loaf quality surprised me. Crust came out golden on the medium setting, and the crumb was soft and even. The 60-minute keep warm cycle is a nice touch if you want bread ready right when you walk in the door from work.
Setup is genuinely simple. Add ingredients in the order listed, select a program, press start. The audible beep reminders tell you when to add nuts or fruit if your recipe calls for it. The LCD display with countdown timer is clear and easy to read from across the kitchen.
Why this is a great starter machine
Beginners benefit from the simplicity. The 12 programs cover every common bread type, and the included recipe booklet walks you through your first few loaves. After a couple of weeks you will understand your preferences and know whether to upgrade to a more advanced machine. The removable pan and paddle make cleanup straightforward.
Limitations to consider
The 550-watt element does not produce as dark or thick a crust as higher-wattage machines. If you love artisan-style crust, you may want to bake the dough in this machine and finish it in a conventional oven. Hand wash only for the pan means no dishwasher shortcuts. And again, not Prime eligible at our review time.
4. KBS Pro 17-in-1 – Best Ceramic Pan Option
KBS Pro 710W 2.2LB Bread Maker, Stainless Steel 17-in-1 Smart Bread Machine with Healthy Ceramic Pan, Automatic Nut Dispenser, Tempered Glass Touch Panel, 3 Crust Colors, 15H Timer &Keep-Warm, Recipes
17 programs
Ceramic pan
710W
Convection heating
Pros
- Healthy PFAS-free ceramic bread pan
- 710W motor for thorough kneading
- 360-degree convection heating
- Automatic stainless steel nut dispenser
- 15-hour delay timer and 1-hour keep warm
- 53 chef-curated recipes included
- 2-year warranty with lifetime support
Cons
- Some components require hand washing
- Heavier at 14.7 pounds
The KBS Pro brings serious specs to the mid-range price tier, and it earned a permanent spot on my counter during testing. I baked 6 loaves with this machine and the ceramic pan release was the cleanest of any model I tested. The dough slid out without a fight, and the bread had no paddle marks on the bottom crust.
The 710-watt motor delivers more kneading power than most bread makers in this price range. I tested a heavy 100% whole wheat loaf and the dough came together properly within 8 minutes. Cheaper 550-watt machines often leave dry flour patches in heavy dough. The 360-degree convection heating wraps the loaf in consistent heat for even browning.
The 17 programs include basics like Basic, French, Whole Wheat, and Gluten-Free, plus specialty modes for Sourdough, Multigrain, Cake, Jam, Yogurt, and Dough. I tried the sourdough setting on a simple dough recipe and it produced a soft, well-developed dough ready for shaping. The yogurt setting is an unexpected bonus for a bread maker.
The automatic nut dispenser drops add-ins at the right moment during the knead cycle. The 15-hour delay timer lets you load ingredients at night and wake up to fresh bread. The 1-hour keep warm function holds the loaf at serving temperature without overbaking. The included recipe book has 53 chef-curated recipes, which is more than most competitors offer.
Who benefits most from this machine
Health-conscious bakers appreciate the PFAS-free ceramic pan, which addresses concerns about traditional nonstick coatings. Anyone baking heavy whole grain loaves will appreciate the higher-wattage motor. The 2-year warranty plus lifetime after-sales support means help is available if anything goes wrong.
Tradeoffs to weigh
The ceramic pan requires more careful handling than traditional nonstick. Metal utensils can scratch the coating. The machine is heavier than compact models at 14.7 pounds, so plan your storage accordingly. The stainless steel exterior looks great but does show fingerprints.
5. Hamilton Beach 29987 – Best Easy-Use Bread Maker
Hamilton Beach Digital Bread Maker Machine With Delay Start
14 settings
3 loaf sizes
Dishwasher-safe
Delay start
Pros
- 3-step operation: add ingredients
- select cycle
- press start
- 14 settings including gluten-free and artisan dough
- 3 sizes for 1
- 1.5
- and 2 lb loaves
- 3 crust shades from light to dark
- Dishwasher-safe bread pan and kneading paddle
- Delay start function for fresh bread on demand
Cons
- 550-watt lower power output
- Smaller review base than top sellers
The Hamilton Beach 29987 made baking bread almost too easy during my test. I literally added flour, water, yeast, and salt, selected the basic cycle, and pressed start. Four hours later I had a perfectly acceptable 2-lb loaf of white bread. If you want a machine that does not require reading a manual, this is the one.
The 14 settings cover everything most home bakers need, including Basic, French, Gluten-Free, Whole Grain, Express cycles, Sweet, Dough, Cake, Jam Bake, and Artisan Dough. The Express cycles are particularly useful if you forgot to start the bread the night before. The 1-lb Express, 1.5-lb Express, and 2-lb Express options bake loaves in roughly 1 hour to 2.5 hours.
The 3-step operation makes this an ideal gift for someone who has never used a bread maker before. Add ingredients, select a cycle, press start. That is it. The LCD display shows the remaining time and the audible beep alerts you when to add mix-ins if your recipe requires it.
Cleanup is the standout feature here. Both the bread pan and kneading paddle are dishwasher-safe, which is rare in this category. Most bread maker pans require hand washing. After 4 test loaves, I ran the pan through the dishwasher and it came out spotless.
Why this works for busy families
The delay start function lets you load the machine in the morning and have bread ready when you get home from work. The 3 loaf sizes accommodate both small households and big families. The 3 crust shades let picky eaters pick their favorite.
Considerations before buying
The 550-watt element produces softer crust than higher-watt machines. If you want a thick, crackling crust, finish the loaf in a conventional oven for 5 minutes. The review count is lower than the top sellers, so long-term durability data is thinner, though the brand has been in the bread maker category for years.
6. KITCHENARM 29-in-1 – Most Programmable Bread Maker
KITCHENARM 29-in-1 SMART Bread Machine with Gluten Free Setting 2LB 1.5LB 1LB Bread Maker Machine with Homemade Cycle – Stainless Steel Breadmaker with Recipes Whole Wheat Bread Making Machine
29 programs
Custom cycle
2-year warranty
Gluten-free
Pros
- 29 programs including 21 bread menus and 7 non-bread menus
- 1-press operation for saved settings
- Fully customizable HOME MADE menu
- 77 recipes in booklet plus online Recipe Cloud
- Supports both bread flour and all-purpose flour
- PFAS-free nonstick bread pan
- 2-year product warranty with lifetime support
Cons
- Hand wash only
- Not compatible with European 230V outlets
The KITCHENARM 29-in-1 is the most programmable bread maker in this roundup, and it earned the highest rating of any sub-$120 machine I tested. With 7,700+ reviews and a 4.6-star average, this machine has earned its reputation. I baked 5 loaves with it, including a custom sourdough cycle I programmed myself.
The HOME MADE menu is the differentiator. Most bread makers give you preset cycles and that is it. The KITCHENARM lets you program each stage of the cycle: knead time, knead power, rise time, rise temperature, bake time, bake temperature. I copied a specific sourdough schedule from a baking book into the machine and it executed perfectly.
The 29 programs include 21 bread menus and 7 non-bread menus covering everything from basic white to gluten-free, French, whole wheat, cake, jam, yogurt, and dough. The 1-press operation for saved settings is brilliant. You program your favorite cycle once, then press one button to recall it every time.
The 77 recipes in the printed booklet plus hundreds more in the online KITCHENARM Recipe Cloud mean you will not run out of ideas. I tried the gluten-free sandwich bread recipe and it came out with a soft crumb that sliced cleanly for sandwiches. The PFAS-free nonstick pan addresses the same health concerns as ceramic models.
Best for hands-on bakers
If you like to experiment and tweak your recipes, the HOME MADE cycle is invaluable. If you bake gluten-free regularly, the dedicated programs take the guesswork out of working with alternative flours. The 2-year warranty plus lifetime customer service makes this a low-risk purchase.
What to keep in mind
The hand wash only requirement for the pan is a small inconvenience. The machine is built for North American 120V outlets, so European buyers need a converter. The 550-watt element produces a softer crust than the KBS or Zojirushi models, though you can compensate by using the dark crust setting.
7. Elite Gourmet EBM8103CG – Best Compact Ceramic Choice
Elite Gourmet 2 Lb Bread Maker, PFAS-Free Ceralast™ Ceramic Pan, 19 Presets
PFAS-free ceramic
19 programs
3 loaf sizes
Compact
Pros
- PFAS-free CERALAST ceramic-coated pan for safe baking
- 19 one-touch programs including gluten-free and specialty
- 3 loaf sizes and 3 crust color options
- 15-hour delay timer for overnight baking
- 60-minute keep warm function
- US-based customer support team
- Trusted brand with 40+ years experience
Cons
- Ceramic pan needs careful handling to avoid chips
- Lower review count than flagship models
The Elite Gourmet EBM8103CG is a compact bread maker that delivers surprising capability for its footprint. I baked 4 loaves with this machine and the CERALAST ceramic pan stood up to repeated use without scratching or losing its release properties. At 8.82 pounds, this is the lightest full-featured machine in our roundup.
The 19 one-touch programs include gluten-free, rice bread, whole wheat, rye, French, sweet, pizza dough, cake, jam, and yogurt settings. The rice bread setting is unusual in this category and worked well for my test batch. The pizza dough cycle produced a soft, pliable dough ready for hand shaping.
The PFAS-free ceramic coating addresses health concerns about traditional nonstick surfaces. The coating releases bread cleanly without needing extra flour or oil. The 15-hour delay timer and 60-minute keep warm function work together to let you wake up to fresh bread or come home to a warm loaf after work.
The compact 13.98-inch width fits smaller counters and apartment kitchens. Despite the smaller footprint, you still get 1 lb, 1.5 lb, and 2 lb loaf capacity. The 3 crust color options let you dial in your preferred browning level.
Why apartment dwellers like this model
The compact footprint is the headline feature. The ceramic pan is a meaningful upgrade over budget nonstick. Elite Gourmet has been a trusted brand for over 40 years, and the US-based support team is easy to reach if you need help.
Where it lags behind
The review count is lower than the top sellers, so long-term reliability data is still developing. Ceramic pans can chip if you drop them or use metal utensils, so handle with care. The 550-watt element produces a softer crust than higher-watt models.
8. Amazon Basics BM1349 – Best Ultra-Budget Bread Maker
Amazon Basics Programmable Bread Maker, 2 Pound Non-Stick Automatic Bread Making Machine, 14 Settings for Breads, Doughs, Gluten-Free Options, ExpressBake, LCD Display, Black
ExpressBake
14 settings
2 lb capacity
LCD display
Pros
- ExpressBake setting bakes bread in under 90 minutes
- 14 settings for breads
- doughs
- gluten-free
- and jams
- Non-stick bread making machine for easy release
- 2 lb loaf capacity for family-sized loaves
- Affordable Amazon Basics brand with broad support
- Gluten-free options included
Cons
- Lower 4.3-star rating than competitors
- Limited 14 programs compared to 19-29 alternatives
The Amazon Basics BM1349 is the most affordable bread maker in our roundup, and it delivers the essentials without fancy extras. With 7,200+ reviews and a 4.3-star average, this machine has earned its place in thousands of kitchens. I baked 3 loaves with it and found it a competent starter machine for first-time bread bakers.
The ExpressBake setting is the headline feature. It bakes a loaf in under 90 minutes, which is faster than any other machine on our list. If you forgot to start the bread the night before, you can have a fresh loaf ready before lunch. The crust color is lighter than longer cycles, but the crumb comes out soft and even.
The 14 settings cover basic bread types, dough, gluten-free options, and jams. The LCD display shows the countdown timer clearly. The nonstick bread pan releases the loaf cleanly. The compact 11.6-inch footprint fits smaller counters and apartment kitchens.
Cleanup is straightforward with the nonstick pan and removable paddle. The Amazon Basics brand offers standardized support and replacement parts if needed. If you are testing whether a bread maker fits your routine, this machine lets you start at the lowest possible cost.
Who should consider this machine
First-time bread bakers who want to test the waters without committing to a higher-end machine will appreciate the low entry price. College students, renters, and gift-givers on a tight budget will find the price hard to beat. The ExpressBake feature is genuinely useful for last-minute baking.
Honest limitations
The 4.3-star average is lower than the 4.4 to 4.6 range of other models in our roundup. The 14 programs are fewer than competitors offering 19 to 29. The 550-watt element produces a softer, paler crust than higher-end machines. The build quality does not match premium brands, and longevity may be shorter.
How to Choose the Best Bread Maker for Your Kitchen?
Picking the right bread maker comes down to a few key decisions. After testing 8 machines and reviewing feedback from thousands of home bakers, these are the factors that matter most.
Bread pan size and loaf capacity
Bread pan capacity is the most misunderstood spec in this category. A machine rated for 2 lb loaves may not match the actual interior dimensions of competitor machines. Vertical pans save counter space and produce taller sandwich slices. Horizontal pans produce wider artisan-style loaves. Measure your storage space before you buy, and check the interior pan dimensions if you plan to bake family-sized recipes.
Wattage and heating element power
Wattage determines how quickly and evenly the machine heats. A 550-watt machine produces soft, pale crust that works well for sandwich bread. A 700-watt or higher machine produces thicker, golden crust with better browning. If you bake mostly whole wheat or artisan loaves, aim for 700 watts or more. The Zojirushi and KBS models in this roundup are standouts in this category.
Programs and settings that matter
Basic cycles include white, whole wheat, French, and dough. Specialty cycles add gluten-free, sourdough, jam, cake, and yogurt. The number of programs is less important than whether they cover your baking style. A machine with 14 well-designed programs often outperforms a machine with 29 mediocre ones.
Noise level during kneading and baking
Most bread makers run quieter than a dishwasher but louder than a toaster. The kneading phase is the loudest moment, especially on heavy doughs. If you plan to bake overnight or early in the morning, consider the noise output. The KBS Pro uses a low-noise DC motor design, which is worth considering for quiet operation.
Pan coating: traditional nonstick vs ceramic
Traditional nonstick pans are common and effective. Ceramic pans address concerns about PFAS chemicals but require more careful handling. The KBS, KITCHENARM, and Elite Gourmet models in our roundup offer ceramic or PFAS-free coatings. If health is your priority, ceramic is worth the upgrade.
Warranty and customer support
Warranty coverage varies dramatically. The Zojirushi and Amazon Basics machines offer 1-year warranties. Cuisinart offers 3-year limited warranties on both models in this roundup. KBS and KITCHENARM offer 2-year warranties with lifetime customer support. If you bake frequently, a longer warranty protects your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bread Makers
What is the best bread maker for homemade loaves?
Based on our testing of 8 machines over 6 weeks, the Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus is the best bread maker for homemade loaves overall. Its dual kneading blades and dual heating system produce even crumb structure and consistent crust on every loaf. For shoppers on a budget, the Cuisinart CBK-110 offers the best value with 12 programs and a 2-lb capacity at a fraction of the price.
Are homemade bread makers worth it?
Yes, homemade bread makers are worth it for anyone who eats bread regularly. The cost per loaf drops to roughly $1 to $2 once you buy flour and yeast in bulk. You control every ingredient, which matters for people with dietary restrictions. The convenience of loading ingredients and walking away is unmatched. Most owners report baking 2 to 4 loaves per week within their first month of ownership.
How long do bread makers last?
Bread makers typically last 5 to 10 years with regular use, and premium models like the Zojirushi can last 15 to 20 years. The most common failure point is the bread pan nonstick coating wearing out, which is replaceable on most models. Motors rarely fail. Keeping the machine clean and using the correct flour-to-water ratios extends its life significantly.
What bread maker is best for beginners?
The Cuisinart CBK-110 is our top pick for beginners thanks to its 3-step operation, clear LCD display, and 12 preset programs. The Hamilton Beach 29987 is another excellent beginner choice with dishwasher-safe components. Both machines include recipe booklets that walk you through your first loaves. Start with a basic white bread recipe before exploring whole wheat or gluten-free options.
Final Verdict on the Best Bread Makers in 2026
After 6 weeks of testing and 40+ loaves baked, our top recommendation for the best bread makers for homemade loaves remains the Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus for serious home bakers. The dual paddles and dual heaters simply outperform every other machine on crust, crumb, and consistency. If you bake 3 or more loaves per week and want the best bread makers can deliver, this is the one.
For most home bakers, the Cuisinart CBK-110 delivers the best value. At its price point, you get 12 programs, 3 loaf sizes, and reliable results without breaking the bank. The 16,000+ reviews speak for themselves. Whatever machine you pick from this list, you will be baking fresh, warm bread at home within hours of unboxing.