Review of Breville BOV800XL Smart Oven Countertop Convection for Versatile Cooking Needs

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Breville BOV800XL Smart Oven Countertop Convection really caught my attention with its sleek brushed stainless steel finish. This thing looks premium, and it fits beautifully into a modern kitchen setting. The dropdown door feels sturdy and opens smoothly, which matters more than you’d think when you’re balancing a hot tray in one hand. Its compact yet spacious design is impressive—while it doesn’t take up a ridiculous amount of counter space, the 18.5 x 15.7 x 11.1-inch interior comfortably fits a 13-inch pizza or a 6-cup muffin tray. That’s a game-changer for anyone who’s tired of juggling small oven racks or using alternative appliances to get the job done.

The LCD display is another standout feature, making it easy to navigate the nine cooking functions. I found the interface intuitive, with clear prompts that help you avoid any guesswork. And let’s not overlook the non-stick cavity coating—cleaning up after baking cookies or roasting veggies couldn’t be easier. It’s a detail that speaks volumes about thoughtful design.

Key Benefits

• Element iQ System ensures precise cooking by adjusting the power of five independent quartz elements.
• Convection technology reduces cooking time by up to 30%, which is perfect for busy days.
• Large capacity accommodates family-sized meals, making it versatile for everyday use.
• Included accessories like the enamel baking pan, broiling rack, and pizza pan add extra value.
• The non-stick interior simplifies cleaning after heavy use.

Performance and Features

Testing this oven was genuinely fun. The 1800-watt power ensures preheating happens fast, and I noticed meals were ready much quicker compared to my old toaster oven. The inbuilt fan for convection cooking is a huge plus, circulating hot air evenly throughout the interior—no more unevenly toasted bread or undercooked casserole edges. I tried all nine cooking functions, from toasting six slices of bread for breakfast to roasting a small chicken, and everything turned out perfectly.

What stood out most was the Element iQ System. It felt like the oven was learning as it went, redirecting power where it was needed for optimal results. For example, when baking cookies, the edges didn’t burn before the center was done—a common problem with other ovens I’ve used. It’s like having a mini-chef adjusting the settings for you.

Boons

• Nine versatile cooking modes allow everything from baking cookies to warming leftovers.
• The LCD display is user-friendly and reduces the chances of overcooking or undercooking.
• Quick preheat ensures you’re not waiting around when you’re hungry.

Areas of Concern

While the Breville Smart Oven is impressive, I noticed a few flaws worth mentioning. The exterior does get quite hot during extended cooking sessions. It’s not a dealbreaker, but you’ll want to make sure it’s placed in a safe spot, especially if you have kids around. Also, the power cord is only three feet long, which felt limiting in my kitchen setup. Lastly, I had to play around with the toast function a bit—it tends to lean on the darker side, even at medium settings.

• The exterior heats up significantly, so keep flammable items or curious hands away.
• Short power cord may require strategic placement or an extension cord.
• Toasting can be inconsistent until you tweak the settings for your preferences.

Competing Products

Compared to other countertop ovens like the Cuisinart TOA-60 and the Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven, the Breville really holds its own. The Cuisinart does offer air frying as an added feature, but it feels bulkier and less intuitive to operate. On the other hand, the Ninja Foodi is excellent for its slim profile, but it doesn’t match the versatility of the Breville’s nine cooking functions. Where the Breville shines is in its Element iQ System and convection technology, which deliver precision and faster cooking times. However, if budget is a major concern, the Ninja might edge out as a more affordable option, albeit with fewer features.

Price Performance

For what it offers, I’d say the Breville Smart Oven is definitely worth every penny. It feels like a high-end product, and the features justify the investment. While there are cheaper options on the market, they often lack the same build quality, cooking precision, and versatility. If you spend a lot of time cooking or if you’re someone who appreciates multitasking appliances, this one is a solid choice. It’s not just an oven—it’s your new kitchen workhorse.

Additional information