Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer BOV860BSS review versatile convection cooking appliance

Description

A Versatile Kitchen Companion: Breville BOV860BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer and Convection Oven

Design and Build Quality
The sleek brushed stainless steel finish of this smart oven immediately caught my eye. It blends seamlessly with other kitchen appliances, giving my countertop a modern and professional look. The compact yet spacious design is a game-changer. Despite its manageable size of 15.9″ D x 18.9″ W x 10.9″ H, the interior is surprisingly roomy. I could fit a whole 13-inch pizza or even a small roast chicken without feeling cramped. The integrated oven light is incredibly handy, offering a clear view of the food’s progress without needing to open the door. The build feels sturdy, and weighing in at about 22.8 pounds, it doesn’t feel flimsy or cheap.

Performance and Features
This smart oven isn’t just about looks; it’s packed with 11 cooking functions, including Toast, Bagel, Broil, Bake, Roast, Warm, Pizza, Air Fry, Reheat, Cookies, and Slow Cook. I’ve personally tested most of these, and they work as advertised. The dedicated air fry setting has been a lifesaver for making crispy chicken wings and guilt-free fries. The Element iQ System is genuinely impressive, utilizing 5 independent quartz heating elements to distribute heat evenly. I noticed there were no cold spots during my baking sessions, something I’ve struggled with in cheaper ovens.

The super convection technology is another highlight. It speeds up cooking by about 30%, which is fantastic on busy days when I need dinner ready quickly. Plus, the digital PID temperature control ensures precise cooking, whether I’m slow-cooking a stew or baking delicate cookies.

Included Accessories and Ease of Use
The package comes with all the essentials: an air fry basket, enamel roasting pan, 13-inch non-stick pizza pan, wire rack, and broiling rack. Each piece is well-crafted and easy to clean, though I wish the non-stick coating was a tad more durable. The LCD display is bright and user-friendly, making it easy to select cooking functions or monitor cooking progress. I also appreciated how the display indicates when preheating is complete, automatically starting the cooking countdown.

Key Benefits

• 11 smart cooking functions provide unmatched versatility.
• The air fry setting delivers crispy results without excessive oil.
• Super convection technology significantly reduces cooking time.
• Large capacity accommodates family-sized meals.
• Stainless steel construction ensures durability and style.

Drawbacks

• The non-stick coating on some accessories could be more robust.
• At 1800 watts, it’s slightly power-hungry, which might be a concern for energy-conscious users.
• The learning curve for beginners can be steep due to the many features.

Competing Products
Compared to similar models like the Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven and the Instant Vortex Plus, the Breville Smart Oven stands out for its robust build quality and precise temperature control. While the Ninja model offers similar air frying capabilities, it lacks the same breadth of cooking functions. On the other hand, the Instant Vortex Plus is more budget-friendly but doesn’t deliver the same consistency in baking and roasting. The Breville oven’s 11 cooking options and super convection technology give it an edge, though some might lean toward competitors for simpler interfaces or lower prices.

Smart Spending
Considering the features, performance, and build quality, this smart oven represents great value for the price. While it’s not the cheapest option, the versatility and reliability you get make it a worthwhile investment. If you’re someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen or simply wants an all-in-one appliance that saves time, this is a solid choice.

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