Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer BOV860BSS review combining performance and versatility

Description

Sleek Design and Build Quality

The Breville BOV860BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer and Convection Oven immediately caught my eye with its brushed stainless steel finish. It complements almost any kitchen aesthetic and feels incredibly sturdy. It’s not a lightweight appliance, weighing about 22.8 pounds, but that heft translates to durability. I’ve used plenty of countertop ovens, and this one stands out in terms of the premium materials—the stainless steel interior and exterior feel built to last. The dimensions, 15.9”D x 18.9”W x 10.9”H, fit comfortably on my counter without taking over the space, yet it’s roomy enough to accommodate larger dishes like a 13-inch pizza or a whole roast chicken. The LCD display adds a modern touch while making it easy to navigate the functions.

Performance with Element iQ System

I was genuinely intrigued by the Element iQ System that Breville advertises. It uses five independent quartz elements to adjust power distribution, ensuring even cooking. This feature shined when I tried baking cookies and roasting chicken; both came out perfectly cooked—no cold spots or uneven browning. The PID temperature control is another impressive addition, maintaining precise heat levels throughout the cooking process. Honestly, you can tell this isn’t just any old convection oven; it’s a step above.

The super convection technology deserves a mention too. It speeds up cooking by 30%, which saved me time when preparing quick dinners after work. The airflow optimizes crispness, making it ideal for things like fries or chicken wings. The dedicated air fry setting delivered on its promise of crispy, golden-brown results. I used less oil than traditional frying, and the taste was still fantastic—it’s a game-changer for health-conscious cooks.

Key Benefits

• 11 cooking functions including Air Fry, Toast, Bake, Broil, and Slow Cook provide unmatched versatility.
• Super convection technology reduces cooking time while enhancing crispness and flavor.
• Integrated oven light and LCD display make monitoring and setting up easy.
• Large capacity fits family-sized meals with ease.
• Comes with useful accessories like an Air Fry basket, roasting pan, and non-stick pizza pan.

Ease of Use and Smart Features

Navigating the 11 cooking functions felt intuitive thanks to the LCD display. The icons and labels are clear, and the preheat indicator is a thoughtful touch, letting you know when the oven is ready. I particularly appreciated the interior oven light, which turns on automatically at the end of a cooking cycle or manually when needed. It’s small details like these that elevate the user experience.

The inclusion of accessories like the Air Fry basket, enamel roasting pan, and nonstick pizza pan was a pleasant surprise. These aren’t just throw-ins; they’re genuinely useful and of good quality. I’ve made pizzas, muffins, and roasted vegetables, and cleanup was straightforward, thanks to the nonstick coating on the pans.

Downsides

• The price may feel steep compared to other countertop ovens.
• The oven’s fan can be a bit noisy, especially in super convection mode.
• Learning curve for first-time users due to the wide range of features.
• Its size might not suit very small kitchens.

Competing Products

While testing this smart oven, I compared it to models like the Cuisinart TOA-60 Air Fryer Toaster Oven and the Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven. The Cuisinart offers a more compact design, but it lacks the Element iQ System, which I found essential for precision cooking. On the other hand, the Ninja Foodi heats up quickly and is better suited for smaller portions but doesn’t offer the same large capacity as the Breville. Where this product shines is its versatility and even heat distribution, making it a superior choice for families or avid home cooks.

Worth Every Penny

This isn’t the cheapest countertop oven, but the features justify the investment. The smart technology, high-quality build, and energy efficiency make it feel like a bargain for what you’re getting. Compared to lower-priced alternatives, this product offers better cooking precision and versatility, saving you the need for multiple appliances. If you’re someone who values convenience, innovation, and reliability in the kitchen, this oven is worth the splurge.

Additional information