Breville Compact Smart Oven BOV650XL Review Perfect Toaster Oven for Small Kitchens

Description

Compact Yet Versatile: A Kitchen Must-Have

I’ve been testing the Breville BOV650XL Compact Smart Oven, and it’s safe to say that this small but powerful appliance has found a permanent place on my countertop. With its brushed stainless-steel finish, it seamlessly blends into any modern kitchen. Right off the bat, the oven’s 17 x 15.5 x 10.25-inch size makes it perfect for small spaces, yet it doesn’t compromise on capacity. Whether I’m toasting bread, baking a 12-inch pizza, or even roasting chicken, this little beast delivers consistently.

The interior’s medium capacity surprised me. It accommodates up to four slices of bread, a 6-cup muffin tray, or even a 12-inch pizza pan without breaking a sweat. For someone like me, who juggles meals for a small family, this compact size feels like the perfect balance between space and functionality.

Ease of Use and Smart Features

What sets this toaster oven apart is its smart Element IQ technology. It’s not just marketing speak—it genuinely adjusts the power distribution across its heating elements to ensure even cooking. I’ve tried baking muffins, and the results were golden perfection, no burnt edges or undercooked centers. The user-friendly dials make choosing cooking modes straightforward, and the backlit LCD screen gives you all the info you need at a glance.

The preset cooking options are another win. Toast, bake, roast, broil—you name it. I especially appreciate the reheat function, which doesn’t dry out leftovers. It’s like the oven reads your mind, knowing exactly how to tweak temperatures and timings.

Key Benefits

This oven comes packed with features that make it stand out.

• Compact yet spacious: Fits snugly on any countertop while accommodating various meal sizes.
• Element IQ technology: Ensures precise and even heat distribution.
• Versatile presets: Multiple cooking options to suit diverse needs.
• Efficient design: Reduces cooking time without compromising quality.

Caveats to Consider

While it’s a great appliance, a few limitations should be noted.

• No interior light: Makes it harder to check on food without opening the door.
• Exterior can get hot: Be cautious, especially if you have kids around.
• Limited accessories included: You might need to purchase additional trays or pans.

These are minor issues but good to keep in mind depending on how you plan to use it.

Build Quality and Design

The brushed stainless steel finish doesn’t just look sleek; it’s also easy to clean. Fingerprints and smudges don’t show up much, which is a relief when you’re in a busy kitchen. The door opens and closes smoothly, and the knobs feel sturdy—not flimsy like those on some other toaster ovens I’ve tested.

However, the lack of an interior light is a small design flaw. I found myself opening the door more often than I’d like to check on my food. Still, the compact size and premium materials make the oven feel like a high-quality addition to your kitchen.

Competing Products

I’ve used a few other toaster ovens like the Cuisinart TOB-40N and the Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven, so I can honestly say the Breville Compact Smart Oven holds its own. Compared to the Cuisinart, the Breville feels more intuitive with its smart heating technology, though the Cuisinart offers a slightly larger capacity. The Ninja Foodi, on the other hand, includes air-frying capabilities, which Breville doesn’t, but its bulkier size isn’t ideal for smaller kitchens.

The Breville stands out for its precision cooking and compact design. If you’re not looking for an air fryer and prioritize consistent results, this one’s a winner in my book.

Price Performance

In terms of value for money, the Breville Compact Smart Oven delivers solid performance. It’s not the cheapest toaster oven out there, but the quality and features justify the price. You’re paying for a reliable appliance that doesn’t just heat food—it cooks it to perfection. It’s a great investment for anyone who wants a versatile, space-saving solution that doesn’t skimp on quality.

For the price, you could get a larger oven or one with additional features like air-frying, but if your priority is precision, speed, and a sleek design, this model is worth it. It feels like it’s built to last, making it a smart buy for the long haul.

The Breville BOV650XL delivers on its promise of being a compact powerhouse for small kitchens. Sure, it has a few quirks, but its strengths far outweigh them.