Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro Review Comprehensive Look at Features and Performance

Description

Highlights of the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro

Testing the Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro and Convection Oven has been an interesting journey, especially given its impressive 13 cooking functions. This countertop appliance excels by combining the capabilities of an air fryer, toaster, pizza oven, and even a slow cooker in one sleek package. The Element iQ System stands out, utilizing five independent quartz elements to steer heat intelligently, eliminating cold spots and providing precise temperature control. I appreciate how the oven’s super convection technology accelerates cooking times by up to 30%, thanks to a powerful two-speed convection fan that circulates hot air evenly.

Versatility is at the core of this kitchen gadget. Whether roasting a 14-pound turkey, air frying crispy French fries, or dehydrating fruits on multiple trays simultaneously, it handles a wide variety of tasks with ease. The adjustable rack and included accessories like the mesh basket for air frying and a broil rack add even more flexibility. The interior oven light is a small but thoughtful touch, letting me monitor progress without opening the door and losing heat.

• 13 versatile cooking functions including air fry, bake, roast, and dehydrate
• Super convection technology reduces cooking time by up to 30%
• Element iQ System ensures precise, even heat distribution
• Includes mesh basket and broil rack for varied cooking needs

Limitations That Matter

Despite its many strengths, the oven does have some drawbacks that I noticed during use. Its size and weight—weighing over 30 pounds and measuring 21.5″ wide—make it a bit bulky for smaller kitchens or limited countertop space. It’s not the most portable appliance if you like to rearrange your kitchen often. Furthermore, the price point is on the higher side compared to simpler toaster ovens or standalone air fryers, which might deter budget-conscious buyers.

The knob control system, while intuitive, sometimes feels less responsive than modern touchscreens, especially when setting precise times or temperatures. Also, although the door style with a dropdown mechanism is sturdy, it can be a bit awkward to maneuver when placing or removing heavier dishes like a large roast. These minor inconveniences don’t overshadow the overall performance but are worth considering.

• Bulky size and heavy weight may challenge small kitchens
• Higher price compared to basic countertop ovens and air fryers
• Knob controls less precise than digital touch alternatives
• Dropdown door can be awkward with heavy cookware

Design and Build Quality

The appliance’s brushed stainless steel finish gives it a professional, polished look that fits well in most modern kitchens. Beyond aesthetics, the build quality feels solid and durable. The oven includes two oven racks, a 9×13 broil rack with enamel roasting pan, a 13-inch pizza pan, and a mesh basket for air frying and dehydrating, covering a wide range of cooking setups. The 3.4-foot power cord is long enough for different kitchen layouts, which I found convenient.

Its interior dimensions allow cooking large items, such as a 14-pound turkey or multiple trays for dehydration, a feature that not all countertop ovens offer. The LCD display simplifies navigating the 13 cooking modes and shows preheat status and cook time countdowns clearly. However, the screen is somewhat small, which could be a challenge for users with vision difficulties.

User Experience and Ease of Use

Operating this smart oven is generally straightforward. The knob control lets me quickly select temperature, time, and cooking functions without diving into complicated menus. The preheat indicator on the LCD display is helpful; it signals when the oven is ready, ensuring I don’t start cooking prematurely. The oven light automatically turns on after cooking, which is a neat feature I didn’t expect but grew to appreciate.

I tested the air fry function extensively, and the crispy results were impressive without the need for excessive oil. Dehydration performance also stood out, as I could dry multiple trays of fruit evenly, thanks to the super convection airflow. The slow cook setting worked well with larger Dutch ovens, making this appliance a genuine multi-tasker in the kitchen.

Alternative Offerings on the Market

Comparing this oven to popular competitors like the Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven or the Cuisinart TOA-60 AirFryer Toaster Oven reveals some interesting contrasts. The Breville excels in cooking versatility and precision with its Element iQ System, while competitors often focus on just air frying and basic baking. However, some rivals offer touchscreen controls and slightly more compact designs, which might appeal to those prioritizing ease of use or space-saving.

In terms of energy efficiency, the Breville’s super convection fan speeds up cooking, reducing overall power consumption compared to slower models. Yet, the price premium means some users might opt for competitors if budget is a primary concern. Overall, this model holds its own by combining multiple appliances into one, though it’s not the smallest or cheapest option.

Value for Money

Assessing the price to quality ratio, this smart oven delivers solid value for those seeking an all-in-one cooking solution. The convenience of having a toaster, air fryer, dehydrator, and slow cooker in a single unit justifies the investment for many home chefs. Its durable construction, extensive accessories, and precise cooking controls provide features that cheaper models lack.

On the flip side, the initial cost might be steep if you only want basic toasting or air frying. If you frequently cook large meals or experiment with diverse recipes, this versatile oven is likely worth every penny. For casual users with limited kitchen space, the size and price could be less appealing.

Positive Features That Impress

• Tailored cooking environment via Element iQ System for even heating
• Ability to dehydrate up to 4 trays at once, ideal for snacks and preservation
• Super convection fan provides faster, more even air frying and roasting
• Large capacity fits 9 slices of bread or a 14-pound turkey comfortably

Negative Attributes to Consider

• Bulky size takes up significant countertop real estate
• Heavy weight makes repositioning cumbersome
• Knob controls can feel less precise than digital touchscreens
• Dropdown door requires careful handling with heavy dishes

Overall, the product offers a compelling mix of features and performance, but the trade-offs in size and price might not suit everyone’s kitchen or budget.

Additional information