Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Review Unveiling Top Performance and Versatility

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Highlights of the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer and Convection Oven

Testing out the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer and Convection Oven, model BOV860BSS1BUS1, I was impressed by its versatility and the way it combines multiple cooking appliances into one sleek countertop unit. The Element iQ System is a standout feature, intelligently distributing heat with five independent quartz elements to create an even cooking environment. This means no more cold spots on your food, allowing everything from crispy air-fried French fries to perfectly roasted chicken to come out just right.

The 11 cooking functions — including Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, Bagel, Roast, Warm, Pizza, Reheat, Cookies, and Slow Cook — give plenty of options for experimenting in the kitchen. The super convection technology speeds up cooking by circulating hotter air and pushing cooler air down, which definitely shaved off time during my tests. It felt like the oven was working smarter, not harder.

• Intelligent heat distribution with Element iQ
• Wide range of cooking presets for diverse meals
• Faster cooking times thanks to super convection

Drawbacks Noticed During Use

Despite many upsides, a few limitations caught my attention. The oven’s size and weight (22.8 pounds) make it a bit cumbersome to move around or store easily. It takes up a significant chunk of countertop space, which might be a challenge in smaller kitchens. Also, the learning curve for the touch controls and LCD display was steeper than I expected. Navigating through the 11 cooking functions took some patience before it felt intuitive.

Another point worth mentioning is the price point, which might feel steep compared to simpler toaster ovens or air fryers without smart features. While the oven delivers on its promises, some users may find it overkill if they just want basic functions without all the bells and whistles.

• Bulky and heavy design
• Touchscreen control requires adjustment period
• Higher price may deter budget-conscious buyers

Versatile Air Frying and Cooking Performance

The dedicated air fry setting impressed me the most. It uses higher temperatures combined with super convection for that perfect crispy, golden finish without needing excess oil. I made chicken wings, French fries, and even roasted vegetables, all of which came out deliciously crisp and evenly cooked. The included air fry basket helped achieve this texture without sogginess.

It’s not just for air frying though — the large capacity allows for a 13-inch pizza, 6 slices of bread at once, or even a whole roast chicken. The oven’s interior is lined with stainless steel, making it easy to clean and durable. Plus, the nonstick pizza pan, roasting pan, wire rack, and broiling rack cover almost every cooking need I could think of.

User-Friendly Features and Build Quality

One thing that stood out during my experience was the integrated oven light that automatically turns on when cooking ends. It’s a small but thoughtful detail, allowing me to check progress without opening the door and losing heat. The LCD display clearly indicates preheat status and cooking countdown, which adds a layer of convenience.

The stainless steel exterior and interior give the oven a premium feel, and the fact that many parts are dishwasher safe makes cleanup less of a chore. However, the removable crumb tray and accessories need regular washing to maintain optimal performance and hygiene.

Alternative Products Worth Considering

Comparing this oven to popular rivals like the Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven and the Cuisinart TOA-60 AirFryer Toaster Oven, the Breville model excels in smart heating technology and build quality. The Element iQ System offers more precise temperature control than the Ninja’s simpler heating elements. On the other hand, the Ninja is lighter and easier to handle, which might appeal to those with limited kitchen space.

The Cuisinart model offers similar cooking functions but lacks the advanced convection speeds and smart algorithms of the Breville. While it’s less expensive, it doesn’t quite match the consistency and crispiness achieved by the super convection in this oven. Each has its strengths, but the Breville stands out for those who want top-tier performance and versatility.

Value Assessment for the Smart Oven Air Fryer

Considering the array of features packed into this smart oven, the price to quality ratio seems justified for home cooks who appreciate precision and versatility. The combination of air frying, baking, roasting, slow cooking, and more in one appliance saves money and space compared to buying multiple devices.

Still, if you’re only after a basic air fryer or toaster oven, spending extra on this model might not be necessary. For people who enjoy experimenting with different cooking styles or need to feed a family, it represents smart spending due to its comprehensive functionality and durable construction.

User Experience: Family and Friends’ Feedback

My family has been quite partial to meals cooked with this appliance. Kids loved the crispy fries and cookies baked in it, while my partner appreciated how quick the oven was at roasting meats without drying them out. Even my mother-in-law, who’s skeptical about new gadgets, admitted the pizza cooked inside was impressively uniform and delicious.

That said, some found the menu navigation a bit fiddly at first. It took a few tries to confidently switch between modes without flipping through the manual. I noticed that once the oven “remembers” your preferences, it becomes easier to use. The quiet operation was another plus — it never felt like a noisy machine was invading the kitchen atmosphere.

Final Thoughts on Features and Practicality

This smart oven air fryer truly delivers on its promise of maximum performance and versatility. From the thoughtful design of its cooking baskets and pans to the advanced heating technology, it caters to a wide range of culinary needs. The programmable functions and durable stainless steel materials add to its appeal as a long-term kitchen companion.

Though it’s heavier and pricier than simpler models, the added convenience, faster cooking times, and consistent results make it a strong contender for anyone serious about their home cooking. The two-year limited warranty also provides peace of mind, confirming the brand’s confidence in this product’s reliability.

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