Breville Smart Oven Pro review Best countertop convection oven for versatile cooking

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Advantages of the Breville Smart Oven Pro BOV845BSS

After using the Breville Smart Oven Pro (model number BOV845BSS), I was genuinely impressed by its versatility and intelligent design. This countertop oven isn’t just your average toaster oven; it’s a multi-functional appliance that replaces several gadgets in your kitchen. The Element IQ system caught my attention right away. It uses five independent quartz heating elements and smart algorithms to distribute heat precisely where it’s needed. This isn’t just marketing fluff—it genuinely works, and you can see the difference in how evenly your food cooks.

The 10 pre-set cooking functions are a real game-changer. From toast and bagels to pizza and slow cooking, this oven has options for just about every culinary need. I particularly enjoyed the slow cooking feature, which lets you prepare tender, flavorful dishes that require hours of cooking at low temperatures. Once the slow cook cycle ends, the oven automatically shifts to a keep-warm setting, which is incredibly convenient when you’re multitasking.

• Convection power reduces cooking time by up to 30%, making it a time-saver for busy households.
• Large interior capacity accommodates a 13-inch pizza, a whole roast chicken, or even a 9-cup muffin tray.
• Integrated oven light and LCD display make it user-friendly and visually intuitive.
• Comes with essential accessories like a non-stick pizza pan, enamel baking pan, and broiling rack.

Areas for Improvement

While there’s so much to love about this countertop oven, a few things stood out as less-than-perfect. For one, the external surface tends to get hot during use. I found myself being extra cautious when reaching for the knobs or opening the door. It’s not a dealbreaker, but something to be mindful of, especially if kids are around.

Another minor gripe is the knob control system. While it offers precision, it can feel a bit outdated compared to touch controls on some competing models. Lastly, the price point might be a bit steep for some users, considering there are other ovens with similar features at lower costs.

• Exterior heat could pose a safety concern.
• Knob controls might not appeal to those preferring modern touchscreens.
• Higher price tag compared to some alternatives in the market.

Design and Build Quality

The brushed stainless steel finish gives this oven a premium look that fits seamlessly into any modern kitchen. I appreciate how compact yet spacious it feels. It doesn’t take up too much counter space but still manages to fit a substantial amount of food. The drop-down door design is practical, and the included crumb tray makes cleanup a breeze. At 22.8 pounds, it’s sturdy but not overly heavy, so you can move it around if needed.

The interior oven light is a thoughtful addition that makes it easy to monitor your food without having to open the door. The light automatically turns on at the end of each cooking cycle, which is a nice touch. That said, I wish the button for the light was a bit larger or more prominent.

Cooking Performance

What really sets this oven apart is its performance in cooking precision. The Element IQ system ensures that each dish is cooked evenly, whether you’re roasting meat or baking cookies. I tried making pizza, and the results were spectacular—the crust was crispy without being overdone, and the toppings were cooked perfectly. The convection setting is a lifesaver for those who want to get dinner on the table faster without sacrificing quality.

The reheat and warm functions are underrated features. Leftovers taste just as good as freshly cooked meals when heated in this oven. And if you’re someone who enjoys baking, the bake and cookie functions are tailored to deliver consistent results every time.

Competing Brands

In terms of competitors, this oven goes head-to-head with models like the Cuisinart TOA-60 and the Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven. The Cuisinart offers an air frying function, which the Breville lacks, but it doesn’t have the same level of cooking precision or the slow cook feature. On the other hand, the Ninja Foodi is more compact and includes air frying, but it falls short on capacity and lacks the polished design of the Breville.

If cooking versatility and even heating are your top priorities, the Breville is the better choice. However, if you’re looking for an all-in-one appliance that includes air frying, you might want to explore those other options. Personally, I found the Breville’s build quality and cooking results to outweigh the lack of an air fryer.

Value for Money

Talking about cost-efficiency, the Breville Smart Oven Pro is a solid investment for anyone who spends a lot of time in the kitchen. It might seem pricey at first glance, but the multiple cooking functions, durability, and time-saving features justify the expense. It’s not just an oven; it’s a multi-purpose tool that can replace several appliances, reducing clutter and simplifying meal prep.

Sure, there are cheaper alternatives, but they often compromise on features, capacity, or build quality. With the Breville, you’re paying for reliability and performance, and that’s something I’m willing to invest in. If you’re a serious home cook or someone who values convenience and precision, this oven is worth every penny.

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