The Breville Smart Oven has become a popular choice for those seeking a multifunctional appliance that promises to replace several kitchen gadgets. Known for its air frying, toasting, and baking capabilities, this oven has garnered attention for its convenience and performance. However, like any product, it comes with its own set of pros and cons. In this review, we'll dive deep into the features, performance, and overall value of the Breville Smart Oven, helping you decide if it's the right addition to your kitchen.
Capacity
The Breville Smart Oven is praised for its spacious interior, which is a significant advantage for those looking to cook large meals or multiple dishes simultaneously. Users report being able to fit a 9x13 inch baking dish, a quarter baking sheet, and even a pizza pan, making it a viable replacement for a traditional oven in many households. This capacity is particularly beneficial for families or for those who entertain, as it can handle a variety of cooking tasks from baking bread to roasting chickens.
Temperature Control
One of the standout features of the Breville Smart Oven is its precise temperature control. The oven heats up quickly and maintains a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process. This precision allows for superior cooking results, whether you're baking cookies or roasting vegetables. However, some users have noted the presence of hot spots near the burners, which can be mitigated by using a baking stone or adjusting the rack positions.
Ease of Use
The Breville Smart Oven scores high on ease of use. It features intuitive controls and multiple preset functions that take the guesswork out of cooking. The labels on the door guide users on where to place the rack for different functions, which is a helpful touch. Additionally, the oven preheats quickly, saving time and energy. The inclusion of a convection feature also enhances its usability, providing an even cook that is especially beneficial for baked goods.
Cleaning
Cleaning the Breville Smart Oven is relatively straightforward. The bottom tray is removable, making it easy to dispose of crumbs and food particles. The interior is spacious enough to wipe down, even for those with larger hands. While the wire basket included for air frying can be challenging to clean and doesn't fit well in some dishwashers, users have found that covering it with foil can minimize mess and simplify cleanup.
Durability
The durability of the Breville Smart Oven is a mixed bag. On one hand, many users report years of reliable use without significant issues. On the other hand, there are several reports of component failures, such as problematic door hinges and malfunctioning buttons. The lack of available replacement parts from Breville is a notable drawback, as it forces consumers to either attempt DIY repairs or replace the oven entirely. This aspect could be a dealbreaker for those who prefer appliances that are easy to maintain and repair.
Price
The Breville Smart Oven is on the higher end of the price spectrum for toaster ovens. However, many users feel that the price is justified given its versatility, capacity, and the quality of its cooking results. It is seen as a worthwhile investment, especially for those looking to reduce the use of a full-sized oven or to add a reliable air fryer to their kitchen arsenal.
Conclusion
The Breville Smart Oven stands out for its versatility, ease of use, and efficient cooking performance. It is particularly suited for those with limited kitchen space who need an appliance that can perform multiple functions. While its durability could be improved, particularly in terms of component longevity and availability of replacement parts, its benefits seem to outweigh these drawbacks for most users. If you're looking for a high-performing, multifunctional oven that can handle nearly everything you throw at it, the Breville Smart Oven might just be worth the investment.
