Breville Smart Oven Pro BOV845BSS review is it the best countertop convection oven?

Description

A Countertop Game-Changer: Breville BOV845BSS Smart Oven Pro

The Breville BOV845BSS Smart Oven Pro immediately caught my attention with its sleek brushed stainless steel design and promise of versatility. As someone who spends a lot of time experimenting in the kitchen, I was intrigued by its 10 cooking functions and convection-powered technology. This countertop oven seemed like a compact powerhouse, and I couldn’t wait to put it through its paces.

Design and Build: Sleek Yet Functional

Right off the bat, the oven’s modern brushed stainless steel finish gave it a premium feel. It’s not just about looks though; the dropdown door and intuitive knob controls make it incredibly user-friendly. With dimensions of 15.91″ D x 18.94″ W x 10.94″ H, it fits well on my countertop, yet its large capacity surprised me. I was able to fit a 13-inch pizza and even slow-cook a 4.4 qt Dutch oven without any issues. The interior oven light was a thoughtful touch, allowing me to monitor my food without opening the door and losing heat.

Performance: Element iQ System at Its Best

The heart of this oven is the Element iQ System, which uses five independent quartz elements to direct heat precisely where it’s needed. This feature really shone when I baked cookies. The heat distribution was so even that every batch came out perfectly golden. The 1800-watt power ensures speedy preheating, which is a lifesaver when you’re in a rush.

One standout feature is the convection setting, which reduces cooking time by up to 30%. I tested this with roasted vegetables, and they cooked evenly in record time. The built-in fan circulates the hot air effectively, ensuring the food is crispy on the outside yet tender inside. It’s as if this oven truly understands my culinary needs.

Versatility: 10 Cooking Functions

This isn’t just a toaster oven; it feels like a mini all-in-one kitchen appliance. The 10 functions include toast, bagel, bake, roast, broil, pizza, cookies, reheat, warm, and even slow cook. I found the slow cook function particularly useful for tenderizing meats and developing complex flavors. It can slow-cook for up to 10 hours, after which it automatically switches to a warming mode. This feature alone has made meal prep incredibly convenient for me.

Key Benefits

• Large Capacity: Fits 6 slices of bread, a 13-inch pizza, or a 9-cup muffin tray.
• Convection Setting: Cuts cooking time by 30%.
• Smart Element iQ System: Tailored heat distribution for precise cooking.
• Slow Cook Function: Perfect for low-temperature, long-duration recipes.
• Included Accessories: Comes with an enamel baking pan, broiling rack, and a non-stick pizza pan.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many strengths, there are a few less favorable aspects to consider:

• Price Point: While its features justify the cost, it might be a stretch for budget-conscious buyers.
• Weight: At 22.8 pounds, it’s not the easiest appliance to move around.
• Knobs: The knob controls, while functional, feel slightly outdated compared to touchscreens.

Peer Products: How It Stacks Up

I’ve tried other countertop ovens like the Cuisinart TOA-60 and the Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven, but this one feels more refined. The Cuisinart offers an air-frying feature, which is absent here, but it doesn’t match the Breville’s precise heat control or even cooking performance. The Ninja is slightly more compact but lacks the slow cook option, which has been a game-changer for me. In terms of build quality and versatility, the Breville Smart Oven Pro outshines most competitors.

Value for Money: Worth Every Penny

This oven is an investment, but it’s packed with features that make it feel worth every cent. The precision cooking, versatile functions, and durable stainless steel build elevate it above other options in its category. While it’s pricier than basic toaster ovens, the added functionality and performance make it a cost-effective choice for anyone serious about cooking.

Testing the Breville Smart Oven Pro has been a revelation. It’s not just another appliance—it’s a kitchen companion that simplifies cooking while delivering exceptional results. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone looking to upgrade their countertop game, this oven is a solid choice.

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