The Breville smart oven has consistently topped rankings in toaster oven tests conducted by professionals. The Australian appliance brand’s flagship models, notably the Joule and the Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro, offer capabilities that may make users forget about their full-sized ovens. These high-end countertop ovens are praised for their precise temperature control, rapid preheating, and efficient energy use that prevents excessive heating in the home. Additionally, Breville has enhanced its offerings by acquiring the ChefSteps brand and collaborating with other recipe developers, providing users with an extensive range of tested recipes and techniques through a mobile app.
However, despite the impressive features of Breville’s ovens, the air frying capability does not stand out as much. The air fryers in these models don’t quite achieve the crispness found in competitors like the Instant Pot basket fryer or the Cuisinart TOA-70 oven. It is speculated that the larger interior of Breville ovens might hinder optimal air circulation compared to the more compact, basket-style air fryers that effectively concentrate hot air.
The introduction of the Smart Oven Air Fryer Compact marks Breville’s smallest and most affordable air fryer model, launched quietly in early March. This 1,800-watt model includes intelligent features, particularly with its preset functionalities. Despite initial expectations, the smaller size did not necessarily improve the crisping of fries and wings.
The Smart Oven Air Fryer Compact, like others in Breville’s appliance line, incorporates helpful automation and convenience features beneficial to home cooks. It includes air fryer presets for popular items such as wings, fries, and bacon, catering to a broad American audience. The correct rack positions for each preset are clearly marked inside the oven, and the user can customize each dish, adding to the ease and utility this compact oven offers.
