Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Review Exploring Versatility and Super Convection Performance

Description

Favorable Attributes of the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer

Using the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer and Convection Oven has been quite the experience, especially with its Element iQ system, which really sets it apart from many other countertop ovens I’ve handled. The 11 cooking functions provide impressive versatility that covers everything from toasting and broiling to slow cooking and air frying. The dedicated air fry setting stands out because it delivers that crispy, golden finish without the guilt of traditional frying, something I appreciated after trying it with homemade French fries and chicken wings. The super convection technology genuinely cuts down cooking times by about 30%, making dinner preparation less of a chore.

• The Element iQ system intelligently distributes heat for even and precise cooking.
• The oven’s large capacity fits a 13-inch pizza, a roast chicken, or even a 9-cup muffin tray with ease.
• The LCD display is intuitive and clearly shows cooking progress, including preheat status and countdown.
• Comes with handy accessories like an air fry basket, enamel roasting pan, and non-stick pizza pan.

Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

Despite all the perks, some aspects of the oven gave me pause during use. The size and weight (over 22 pounds) make it less portable than smaller toaster ovens, which could be a downside for those with limited counter space or who want to move it frequently. While the touch controls are sleek, they sometimes felt a bit sensitive, leading to accidental setting changes if I brushed against the panel. Cleaning, though manageable thanks to the dishwasher-safe parts, requires attention because the stainless steel exterior tends to show fingerprints and smudges quite easily. Also, some users might find the price point a bit steep for a countertop appliance, especially if only basic functions like toasting or baking are needed.

• The oven is quite bulky, requiring significant counter space.
• Touch controls can be overly sensitive.
• Stainless steel surfaces attract fingerprints and smudges.
• Might be costlier compared to simpler toaster ovens.

Exploring the Oven’s Design and Build Quality

The brushed stainless steel finish gives the appliance a professional, sleek look that fits well in modern kitchens. Its solid construction feels durable and robust, not cheap or flimsy like some other models I’ve tested. The oven’s dimensions (15.9″ deep by 18.9″ wide and 10.9″ high) mean it can handle larger meals, which my family and I definitely appreciate. The interior stainless steel is easy to wipe down, and the oven light is a thoughtful addition, automatically illuminating when cooking is done or when I need to check on progress without opening the door and losing heat.

Navigating the Cooking Functions and Settings

Each of the 11 cooking functions—ranging from toast and bake to slow cook and cookies—worked well, but the air fry option impressed me the most. The built-in super convection and higher temperatures really crisp up food faster than my previous ovens without drying it out. I’ve experimented with the slow cook setting too, which worked surprisingly well with a Dutch oven inside, proving this oven’s adaptability. The programmable timer and temperature controls are straightforward, and the digital PID temperature control maintains consistent heat, eliminating those frustrating cold spots that often ruin baked goods.

Performance Compared to Competitors

Comparing this smart oven air fryer to other popular countertop models like the Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven or the Cuisinart TOA-60 convection toaster oven reveals some interesting trade-offs. The Breville excels in precision and versatility, thanks to its Element iQ technology and super convection system, which many competitors lack. However, it’s less compact and more expensive than those rivals, making it potentially less attractive for small kitchens or budget-conscious buyers. The Ninja does offer slightly faster preheat times, and the Cuisinart provides a more budget-friendly option without some of the advanced features Breville boasts.

• Breville has superior air frying technology and even heat distribution.
• Competitors may be more compact or cheaper but lack the same cooking precision.
• The large capacity and included accessories give it an edge for families or frequent cooks.

Value Proposition and Price Performance

Considering its features and build, this oven positions itself in the premium range of countertop appliances. The combination of 11 cooking modes, smart heat distribution, and super convection technology offers excellent cooking results that justify the investment, especially for those who want an all-in-one solution. If you’re seeking a device that can replace multiple kitchen gadgets—like a toaster oven, air fryer, and slow cooker—this model delivers solid value. However, if your needs are limited to occasional toasting or baking, more affordable and compact alternatives might offer better cost-effectiveness.

Usability and Everyday Experience

Handling this oven daily, I found it user-friendly but not without quirks. The touch interface requires a gentle approach, and the oven light is a clever feature that helps avoid opening the door unnecessarily. My kids enjoyed helping with snacks thanks to the simple preset buttons, but they struggled a bit with the touch controls, which could use a more tactile feel. Cleaning the air fry basket and roasting pan is straightforward since they’re dishwasher safe, but wiping down the stainless steel exterior is a constant task to keep it looking pristine.

Summary of Good Points

• Exceptional cooking versatility with 11 preset functions including unique slow cook and cookie modes.
• The Element iQ system ensures even heat distribution and precise temperature control.
• Large interior space fits bigger meals, ideal for families.
• Super convection reduces cooking times noticeably.
• Included accessories like air fry basket and pizza pan add value.

Summary of Bad Points

• Bulky size may not suit all kitchen setups.
• Touch controls are sensitive and can be accidentally triggered.
• Stainless steel surface shows fingerprints easily.
• Higher price may deter budget-conscious shoppers.

This smart oven air fryer combines impressive technology and versatility but demands some patience with its size and touch interface. It’s not perfect, but for those who cook diverse dishes and want an appliance that can truly multitask, it’s worth considering.

Additional information