Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro review exploring features, performance, and value

Description

A Game-Changer in the Kitchen: The Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro

I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect when I decided to give the Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro a try. I mean, how much could one countertop appliance improve my cooking routine? Turns out, quite a lot. From its versatile 13 cooking functions to its sleek brushed stainless steel design, this oven has redefined how I approach meal prep, and not just for me but for my entire household.

Design and Build Quality

The moment I unpacked it, the brushed stainless steel finish caught my eye. It’s elegant, modern, and blends seamlessly with other appliances in my kitchen. While it’s not exactly compact, the 17.5″ x 21.5″ x 12.7″ dimensions make it a perfect fit on most countertops without feeling overwhelming. The drop-down door feels sturdy, and the LCD display is a standout feature, showing all the settings clearly. Everything about the build screams durability, and at 30.2 pounds, it feels substantial without being a nightmare to move.

You’ve also got adjustable racks for flexibility, which I quickly learned were a lifesaver. Whether I was baking cookies or air frying chicken wings, I could easily switch up the configuration to accommodate different dishes. The interior light? A small but appreciated touch—it’s great for peeking at your food without opening the door and losing heat.

Key Benefits

One of the key benefits of this appliance is its Element iQ System. The five independent quartz heating elements are no joke—they distribute heat smartly and precisely. I tried baking cookies, and let me tell you, they were evenly browned and perfectly chewy. No raw centers, no burnt edges. The PID temperature control eliminates hot or cold spots, which makes a huge difference when you’re cooking something delicate.

• 13 cooking functions make it a multitasking marvel.
• The super convection setting reduces cooking time by up to 30%.
• The oven can reach a temperature range from 80°F to 480°F, accommodating a variety of recipes.
• The extra-large capacity fits a 9″ x 13″ pan, a 12-cup muffin tray, or even a 14-pound turkey.

Performance and Cooking Results

I’ll admit, I was skeptical about the air frying and dehydrating features, but they exceeded my expectations. I tossed a batch of French fries into the mesh basket rack, and they came out golden, crispy, and just as addictive as deep-fried ones—without the guilt of added oil. The ability to dehydrate up to four trays of fruits or veggies simultaneously also blew my mind. Imagine making your own healthy snacks at home!

The two-speed convection fan is a game-changer, especially for roasting. I roasted a chicken using the super convection setting, and the results were incredible—the skin was crisp, and the meat was juicy. It’s clear the oven’s air circulation system does a stellar job. Also, the pizza function? My homemade pizza had a perfectly crisp crust while the toppings remained gooey and delicious.

Downsides

While I’ve been impressed by its performance, there are a few areas for improvement.

• The knob controls feel slightly outdated compared to touchscreens found in some competitors.
• At 1800 watts, it’s a bit of an energy hog, so it’s worth considering if you’re mindful of your electricity bill.
• The appliance takes up a fair amount of counter space, which might be a concern for smaller kitchens.

Competing Products

I’ve tried similar products in this category, like the Cuisinart TOA-65 Air Fryer Toaster Oven and the Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven. While both have their merits, they don’t quite match the versatility of Breville’s offering.

The Cuisinart TOA-65 has fewer cooking functions (seven compared to Breville’s 13), and its air frying results didn’t feel as evenly crisp. The Ninja Foodi, on the other hand, is more compact and budget-friendly, but it lacks the dehydration feature and the same level of temperature control. Where the Breville shines is in its smart technology and overall cooking precision.

Worth Every Penny?

When it comes to value for money, this oven delivers. Yes, it’s an investment, but when you consider its multifunctionality—it replaces a toaster, air fryer, dehydrator, and even a smaller convection oven—it starts to feel worth it. I love that it comes with useful accessories, like a 13-inch pizza pan, two oven racks, a broil rack, and an enamel roasting pan. The build quality and 2-year warranty also add peace of mind.

Final Thoughts on the Smart Oven

This appliance has quickly become a staple in my kitchen. I’ve cooked everything from breakfast bagels to slow-cooked stews, and it hasn’t let me down. If space and budget allow, this oven is a fantastic upgrade for anyone looking to streamline their cooking process while achieving restaurant-quality results at home. It’s not without its quirks, but the pros far outweigh the cons.

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