Are you tired of waiting forever for your oven to preheat? Ready to slash cooking times while achieving that perfect crispy texture you’ve been craving? Breville air fryers are taking kitchens by storm, and for good reason. These aren’t just ordinary countertop appliances – they’re culinary game-changers that combine cutting-edge technology with user-friendly design to deliver restaurant-quality results at home.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive deep into Breville’s most popular air fryer models, breaking down everything you need to know before making your purchase. From the tech-savvy Joule Oven to the versatile Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro, we’ve tested them all to help you find your perfect kitchen companion.
Why Breville Air Fryers Are Dominating the Market
Breville has built a reputation for creating premium kitchen appliances that actually deliver on their promises. The Breville produced crisp food with a nice golden color without being dry, according to expert testing. What sets these units apart isn’t just their sleek design – it’s the innovative Element IQ technology that intelligently directs power where it’s needed most.
Unlike basic air fryers that simply blow hot air around, Breville’s models use sophisticated heating elements and convection systems to ensure even cooking every time. It saves us time. It is so quick to preheat unlike our regular oven. Also, for the bake and air fryer settings, which we use the most, it uses convection cooking which means it cooks food faster.
The real magic happens when you realize these aren’t just air fryers – they’re complete cooking systems that can toast, bake, roast, dehydrate, and more. It’s like having a full-sized oven, air fryer, and dehydrator all rolled into one sleek countertop unit.
Top 4 Breville Air Fryers Review
1. Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro (BOV900BSS)
The Ultimate All-in-One Kitchen Powerhouse
The Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is Breville’s flagship model, and it’s easy to see why it’s become a favorite among serious home cooks. This isn’t just an air fryer – it’s a complete cooking ecosystem that can handle everything from your morning toast to elaborate dinner preparations.
Key Features:
- Element IQ System with 5 independent heating elements
- 13 preset cooking functions including Air Fry, Bake, Toast, Roast, and Dehydrate
- Super convection technology reduces cooking time by up to 30%
- Large interior fits 6 slices of toast or a 12-inch pizza
- LCD display with intuitive controls
- Interior oven light for monitoring food
The Element IQ system is where this unit truly shines. Instead of relying on simple on/off heating like cheaper models, it intelligently adjusts power to different heating elements based on what you’re cooking. Making pizza? More power goes to the bottom elements for a crispy crust. Air frying chicken? The convection fan kicks into high gear while top elements provide that perfect golden finish.
The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro with Element iQ System is a versatile countertop oven allowing you to roast, air fry and dehydrate; Super convection reduces cooking time by up to 30%; Choose from 13 cooking functions.
What We Love:
- Incredibly versatile with 13 different cooking functions
- Fast preheating saves significant time compared to traditional ovens
- Even cooking results thanks to Element IQ technology
- Large capacity handles family-sized portions easily
- Intuitive controls make it easy for anyone to use
- Sturdy construction feels built to last
- Interior light lets you monitor cooking progress
- Included accessories like pizza stone and air fry basket
The One Downside: The size can be overwhelming for smaller kitchens – this unit requires significant counter space and clearance above for proper ventilation.
The Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro excels at versatility. Whether you’re air frying crispy Brussels sprouts, baking fresh cookies, or slow-cooking a tender roast, this machine handles it all with remarkable consistency. The large interior means you can cook for the whole family without multiple batches, making weeknight dinners significantly easier.
2. Breville Joule Oven Air Fryer Pro (BOV950BSS)
Smart Technology Meets Culinary Excellence
The Joule Oven takes everything great about the Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro and adds cutting-edge connected features through the Breville+ app. Breville’s newest appliance is its first smart connected oven, according to the brand. It pairs with the Joule Oven smartphone App to offer several features, including guided cooking assistance, an Autopilot mode, and voice-activated control with Amazon Alexa and Google home devices.
Key Features:
- All features of the Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro
- Breville+ app connectivity with guided recipes
- Autopilot mode for hands-off cooking
- Voice control compatibility with Alexa and Google Home
- Real-time cooking notifications
- Remote monitoring capabilities
- Extensive recipe library through the app
The Joule Oven represents the future of home cooking. Through the Breville+ app, you get access to hundreds of guided recipes that walk you through each step of the cooking process. The app doesn’t just give you a recipe – it actually controls the oven settings, adjusting temperature and cooking modes automatically based on what you’re making.
What We Love:
- App integration makes cooking foolproof for beginners
- Autopilot mode handles complex recipes automatically
- Voice control adds convenience when hands are messy
- Real-time notifications prevent overcooking
- Growing library of guided recipes
- All the versatility of the Smart Oven Pro plus smart features
- Professional-grade results with minimal effort
- Remote monitoring lets you multitask confidently
The One Downside: The smart features can feel overwhelming for users who prefer simple, traditional cooking methods without app dependency.
The Joule Oven shines when you want to expand your cooking skills without the stress of figuring out temperatures and timing. The guided recipes are genuinely helpful, providing step-by-step instructions that sync with the oven’s controls. It’s like having a professional chef coaching you through each dish.
3. Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer (Compact Version)
Perfect Size, Premium Performance
For those who want Breville quality but don’t need the large capacity of the Pro models, the compact Smart Oven Air Fryer delivers impressive performance in a more manageable size. This model focuses on the essentials while maintaining the build quality and cooking performance Breville is known for.
Key Features:
- Element IQ technology with 4 heating elements
- 8 preset cooking functions
- Fits 4 slices of toast or 9-inch pizza
- Convection cooking for faster, more even results
- Non-stick interior for easy cleaning
- Digital controls with LCD display
- Compact footprint ideal for smaller kitchens
This model proves that you don’t need massive size to get excellent results. The 4-element heating system still provides the intelligent heat distribution that makes Breville ovens special, just in a more compact package. It’s perfect for couples, small families, or anyone with limited counter space.
What We Love:
- Space-efficient design fits smaller kitchens perfectly
- Maintains Breville’s signature cooking quality
- Fast preheating and cooking times
- Easy-to-clean non-stick interior
- Intuitive digital controls
- Still includes convection for better results
- More affordable than larger models
- Quiet operation won’t disturb your household
The One Downside: Limited capacity means you’ll need to cook in batches for larger families or entertaining.
Despite its smaller size, this model doesn’t compromise on cooking quality. The Element IQ system ensures even heating, and the convection fan creates that perfect crispy texture we all love. It’s ideal for everyday cooking tasks and excels at air frying vegetables, reheating leftovers, and baking small batches of cookies or muffins.
4. Breville Smart Oven Compact Convection
Essential Functions, Reliable Performance
The entry-level option in Breville’s lineup focuses on core cooking functions without the bells and whistles. This model is perfect for those who want reliable Breville quality for basic cooking tasks without paying for features they won’t use.
Key Features:
- Element IQ technology with 4 heating elements
- 8 essential cooking functions including Toast, Bake, and Reheat
- Fits 4 slices of toast
- Convection cooking capability
- Simple analog controls
- Compact design
- Non-stick interior
While it may not have all the advanced features of its bigger siblings, this model still delivers the even heating and reliable performance that makes Breville special. The analog controls keep things simple – just turn the dials to set temperature and time.
What We Love:
- Most affordable Breville option
- Simple, reliable operation
- Still includes Element IQ technology
- Convection cooking for better results
- Compact size perfect for small spaces
- Easy-to-understand analog controls
- Consistent heating and cooking results
- Durable construction
The One Downside: Lacks the advanced features and larger capacity of premium models, limiting versatility for serious cooks.
This model is perfect for those who want to experience Breville quality without the complexity or cost of the premium models. It handles basic cooking tasks beautifully and makes an excellent starter unit for those new to countertop convection cooking.
Comprehensive Comparison Table
| Feature | Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro | Joule Oven Air Fryer Pro | Smart Oven Air Fryer Compact | Smart Oven Compact Convection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooking Functions | 13 (Air Fry, Bake, Toast, Broil, Roast, Pizza, Cookies, Proof, Reheat, Warm, Slow Cook, Dehydrate) | 13 (Same as Pro + App Control) | 8 (Toast, Bagel, Bake, Broil, Pizza, Reheat, Cookies, Warm) | 8 (Toast, Bagel, Bake, Broil, Pizza, Reheat, Cookies, Warm) |
| Capacity | 6 slices toast / 12″ pizza | 6 slices toast / 12″ pizza | 4 slices toast / 9″ pizza | 4 slices toast |
| Heating Elements | 5 (Element IQ) | 5 (Element IQ) | 4 (Element IQ) | 4 (Element IQ) |
| Smart Features | Basic digital controls | App connectivity, voice control, autopilot | Digital controls | Analog controls |
| Interior Light | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Convection | Super convection | Super convection | Standard convection | Standard convection |
| Display | LCD | LCD | LCD | Analog dials |
| Dimensions | 18.5″ x 16.25″ x 11.25″ | 18.5″ x 16.25″ x 11.25″ | 16.5″ x 13.25″ x 10.75″ | 16.5″ x 13.25″ x 10.75″ |
| Best For | Versatile home cooks, families | Tech-savvy cooks, beginners wanting guidance | Small kitchens, couples | Budget-conscious, simple cooking |
| Included Accessories | Air fry basket, pizza stone, broil rack | Air fry basket, pizza stone, broil rack | Broil rack, baking pan | Broil rack, baking pan |
Complete Buying Guide – Choosing Your Perfect Breville Air Fryer
Assess Your Kitchen Space
Before falling in love with any particular model, measure your available counter space. The Pro models require significant room – not just for the unit itself, but for proper ventilation around the sides and top. You’ll need at least 4 inches of clearance on all sides and 8 inches above for safe operation.
For smaller kitchens or limited counter space, the compact models offer most of the same cooking technology in a more manageable size. Don’t sacrifice kitchen functionality for a larger oven if space is at a premium.
Consider Your Cooking Habits
Think honestly about how you actually cook. If you’re someone who loves experimenting with new recipes and cooking techniques, the Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro or Joule Oven will give you the versatility to explore everything from slow-cooked roasts to perfectly dehydrated fruit leather.
For simpler cooking needs – reheating leftovers, making toast, occasional baking – the compact models provide excellent value without overwhelming features you’ll never use.
Family Size Matters
The capacity difference between models is significant. The Pro models can handle a 12-inch pizza or 6 slices of toast simultaneously, making them ideal for families of four or more. The compact models work well for couples or small families but require batch cooking for larger meals.
Technology Comfort Level
The Joule Oven’s smart features are genuinely useful, but they do require comfort with smartphone apps and connected devices. If you prefer straightforward cooking without digital assistance, the traditional Smart Oven models provide the same excellent cooking performance with simpler controls.
Budget Considerations
While we’re not discussing specific pricing, Breville air fryers represent different investment levels. The compact models offer entry into the Breville ecosystem at a lower cost, while the Pro models provide premium features and larger capacity. Consider the long-term value – a more versatile unit might eliminate the need for other appliances.
Features That Make Breville Special
Element IQ Technology
This is Breville’s secret weapon. Unlike simple toaster ovens that turn heating elements on and off, Element IQ actively directs power to specific elements based on the cooking function selected. Baking a cake? More gentle, even heat from top and bottom. Air frying chicken wings? Maximum convection with targeted top heat for browning.
Build Quality and Design
Breville doesn’t cut corners on construction. The stainless steel exteriors resist fingerprints and clean easily. Interior components are built to withstand daily use without warping or deteriorating. Door hinges feel solid, and temperature controls maintain accuracy over time.
Versatility Beyond Air Frying
While air frying gets the marketing attention, these ovens excel at traditional cooking methods too. The convection system makes them excellent for baking – cookies come out evenly browned, and roasts cook faster than in conventional ovens while staying moist inside.
User-Friendly Interface
Breville’s control interfaces strike the right balance between sophistication and simplicity. The LCD displays clearly show cooking progress, and the dial-and-button combination feels intuitive after just a few uses. Even the analog controls on budget models are well-designed and responsive.
Maintenance and Care Tips
Daily Cleaning
After each use, allow the unit to cool completely before cleaning. The removable crumb tray slides out easily for quick cleanup. Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth – the non-stick coating makes this surprisingly easy.
Deep Cleaning
Weekly deep cleaning keeps your Breville performing optimally. Remove all accessories and wash them in warm, soapy water. For stubborn residue, use a paste of baking soda and water, but avoid abrasive cleaners that could damage the non-stick surface.
Exterior Maintenance
The stainless steel exterior cleans beautifully with appropriate stainless steel cleaner or simply warm water and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive pads that could scratch the finish.
Element Care
Never use metal utensils inside the oven that could damage heating elements. If you notice uneven heating over time, contact Breville customer service – the Element IQ system should maintain consistent performance throughout the product’s life.
Performance Analysis: How Breville Stacks Up
Cooking Speed
Super convection reduces cooking time by up to 30% compared to traditional ovens. In real-world testing, frozen french fries that take 25 minutes in a conventional oven finish in about 18 minutes in the Breville with better texture and crispiness.
Energy Efficiency
Countertop ovens use significantly less energy than full-sized ovens for most tasks. The faster cooking times and smaller space to heat mean lower electricity bills, especially during summer months when you don’t want to heat up your entire kitchen.
Food Quality Results
The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro and Instant Vortex Plus both delivered light crisping and good moisture retention. The key advantage is maintaining moisture inside while creating crispy exteriors – something that’s notoriously difficult to achieve.
Consistency
One of the biggest advantages over cheaper alternatives is consistency. The Element IQ system delivers repeatable results, so your morning toast comes out the same way every time, and family recipes turn out reliably delicious.
Common Questions and Concerns
“Will this replace my regular oven?”
For many cooking tasks, absolutely. The Pro models handle everything from roasting chickens to baking sheet cakes. However, if you regularly cook for large groups or use oversized cookware, you’ll still need your full oven occasionally.
“Is the learning curve difficult?”
Surprisingly no. While the units have many features, the preset functions make them intuitive to use. Most people master the basic functions within a few uses and gradually explore advanced features as confidence builds.
“How loud are they during operation?”
Breville units run quieter than many competitors. The convection fan creates some noise, but it’s comparable to a microwave and won’t disturb normal household activities.
“Do they really cook food better than regular air fryers?”
The Element IQ technology and superior build quality do create noticeably better results. Food cooks more evenly, with better texture and browning compared to basic air fryer baskets.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Uneven Cooking
If you notice hot spots or uneven results, ensure proper spacing around food items and avoid overcrowding. The convection system needs air circulation to work effectively.
Display Issues
If the LCD becomes unresponsive, unplug the unit for 30 seconds and plug back in. This resets the control system and resolves most electronic glitches.
Unusual Noises
Some expansion and contraction sounds are normal as the unit heats and cools. However, grinding or rattling noises should be investigated by customer service.
Smoke Production
Initial uses may produce some smoke as manufacturing residues burn off. If smoking continues after several uses, check for food debris on heating elements or excessive grease buildup.
Final Verdict: Which Breville Air Fryer Should You Choose?
After extensive testing and real-world use, here’s our recommendation framework:
Choose the Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro if: You want maximum versatility, cook for a family of 4+, have adequate counter space, and value having every cooking function available. This is the best overall choice for serious home cooks.
Choose the Joule Oven Air Fryer Pro if: You love technology, want guided cooking assistance, are building your culinary skills, or appreciate the convenience of voice control and remote monitoring. Perfect for tech-savvy cooks or those wanting to expand their cooking repertoire.
Choose the Smart Oven Air Fryer Compact if: You have limited space but still want excellent cooking performance and versatility. Ideal for small families, apartments, or as a secondary cooking appliance.
Choose the Smart Oven Compact Convection if: You want Breville quality for basic cooking tasks at the most accessible investment level. Perfect for simple needs and budget-conscious buyers.
Every Breville air fryer delivers superior performance compared to basic alternatives. The Element IQ technology, build quality, and thoughtful design features justify the premium positioning. Whether you choose the feature-packed Pro models or the streamlined compact versions, you’re getting a appliance that will genuinely improve your daily cooking experience.
The real question isn’t whether a Breville air fryer is worth it – it’s which model best fits your specific needs, space, and cooking ambitions. Any choice from this lineup will transform how you think about countertop cooking and likely become one of your most-used kitchen appliances.
