Why I Chose the Breville BOV950BSS Joule Smart Oven Air Fryer
After my decade-old toaster oven finally gave up, I wanted an upgrade that could handle multiple cooking tasks without cluttering my limited counter space. The Breville Joule Smart Oven Air Fryer caught my attention with its promise of replacing several appliances in one sleek package.
What ultimately sold me was the combination of Breville’s reputation for quality and the innovative features powered by ChefSteps technology. The ability to control cooking remotely through an app, with step-by-step guidance, seemed like the perfect solution for my busy lifestyle.
The Element IQ system, which directs heat precisely where needed, addressed my frustration with uneven cooking in previous appliances. And while the price point initially gave me pause, the potential to replace multiple kitchen gadgets made the investment more reasonable.
What to Look for Before Buying an Air Fryer for Home
Before investing in any air fryer oven, consider these key factors to ensure you select the right model for your needs:
Capacity and Size
Consider both your kitchen space and typical cooking volume. Compact models save counter space but limit what you can cook. The Breville Joule offers substantial capacity while maintaining a reasonable footprint.
Cooking Functions
Basic air fryers offer limited functionality, while premium models like the Breville BOV950BSS include multiple cooking modes. Look for versatility that matches your cooking style.
Smart Features
Connected features range from basic timers to comprehensive cooking guidance. Evaluate whether app connectivity and smart home integration would genuinely improve your cooking experience.
Build Quality
Premium materials like stainless steel typically offer better durability and heat distribution. Check door seals, hinges, and control panels for quality construction.
Price vs. Value
Higher price often correlates with better performance and durability, but consider which features you’ll actually use. Sometimes mid-range models offer the best balance of quality and value.
Breville BOV950BSS Joule Smart Oven Air Fryer: Detailed Review
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Product Description
The Breville Joule Oven Air Fryer Pro combines advanced cooking technology with smart connectivity in a premium countertop appliance. Its brushed stainless steel exterior houses sophisticated heating elements controlled by Breville’s Element IQ system, which directs power precisely where and when it’s needed for optimal cooking results.
Core Features
- Element IQ System with 6 independent quartz heating elements
- 16 innovative cooking functions, including air fry, toast, bake, and dehydrate
- Breville+ app connectivity with guided recipes and Autopilot cooking
- Super convection technology for faster cooking and crispy results
- Voice control compatibility with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa
- Two-speed convection fan for precise air control
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
| Dimensions | 21.4″ W x 17.3″ D x 12.7″ H |
| Weight | 23 lbs |
| Power | 1800 Watts, 120V |
| Temperature Range | 80°F to 480°F |
| Capacity | 1 cu. ft. (fits 9 slices of toast or 14-lb turkey) |
| Included Accessories | 13″ pizza pan, 2 wire racks, 9″x13″ broiling rack, 9″x13″ enamel roasting pan, air fry/dehydrate basket |
| Warranty | 2-year limited warranty |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional versatility with 16 cooking functions
- Intuitive app with helpful guided recipes
- Excellent air frying performance
- High-quality construction and materials
- Spacious interior accommodates large dishes
- Super convection significantly reduces cooking times
Cons
- Premium price point
- Takes up significant counter space
- App connectivity can occasionally be finicky
- Some recipes in the app need refinement
- A glass door collects condensation during high-moisture cooking
Standout Values
What truly sets the Breville Joule Smart Oven apart is its “Autopilot” feature, which automatically adjusts cooking functions, temperatures, and times throughout the cooking process. This hands-off approach delivers consistently excellent results, especially for complex recipes that would generally require constant monitoring.
The Element IQ system also deserves special mention, as it creates precise heating environments that extract maximum flavor and texture from foods. Whether air frying chicken wings or baking delicate pastries, the temperature control is remarkably accurate.
The Breville BOV950BSS Joule Smart Oven Air Fryer combines premium construction with innovative technology for exceptional results.
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Alternative 1: Ninja SP351 Toaster Oven Air Fryer Combo
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Product Description
The Ninja SP351 offers a space-saving solution with its innovative flip-away design that allows it to be stored vertically against your backsplash when not in use. This 13-in-1 appliance combines air frying, toasting, and baking capabilities in a more affordable package than the Breville.
Core Features
- 13 cooking functions, including air fry, toast, bake, and dehydrate
- Flip-away design for vertical storage
- Digital thermometer for precise cooking
- 60-second preheat function
- Up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods
- XL capacity fits a 13″ pizza or 6 chicken breasts
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
| Dimensions | 19.72″ W x 14.96″ D x 7.56″ H |
| Weight | 17.9 lbs |
| Power | 1800 Watts |
| Temperature Range | 150°F to 450°F |
| Capacity | Fits 13″ pizza or 9 slices of toast |
| Included Accessories | Sheet pan, wire rack, air fry basket, digital thermometer |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Space-saving flip-away design
- More affordable than Breville
- Built-in digital thermometer
- Quick 60-second preheat
- Easy-to-use digital controls
- Good air frying performance
Cons
- No smart connectivity features
- Less precise temperature control
- Slightly smaller capacity than Breville
- Louder operation
- Less durable construction
Standout Values
The Ninja SP351’s most impressive feature is its space-saving design. For kitchens with limited counter space, the ability to flip the oven up against the backsplash when not in use is genuinely innovative. The built-in digital thermometer also takes the guesswork out of cooking meats to the perfect temperature.
Space-Saving Solution for Modern Kitchens
The Ninja SP351 offers versatile cooking functions with an innovative space-saving design at a more accessible price point.
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Alternative 2: Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven
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Product Description
The Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven brings celebrity chef endorsement and extra-large capacity to the air fryer oven market. With its elegant French door design and 24 cooking functions, it aims to be the centerpiece of your kitchen while handling everything from toast to full family meals.
Core Features
- 24 cooking functions, including air fry, rotisserie, and dehydrate
- French door design with single-hand operation
- Extra-large 26-quart capacity
- LCD digital display with easy-to-use controls
- 5 heating elements for even cooking
- Includes 7 accessories for various cooking methods
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
| Dimensions | 22.5″ W x 17.5″ D x 14.5″ H |
| Weight | 27.9 lbs |
| Power | 1500 Watts |
| Temperature Range | 150°F to 450°F |
| Capacity | 26 quarts (fits 12″ pizza or whole chicken) |
| Included Accessories | Crisper tray, pizza rack, baking pan, drip tray, rotisserie spit, rotisserie handle, recipe booklet |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Extra-large capacity for family meals
- Elegant French door design
- An extensive accessory package included
- The rotisserie function is not available in many competitors
- Good value for the size and features
- Celebrity chef recipes included
Cons
- Takes up significant counter space
- No smart connectivity features
- Lower wattage than competitors (1500W vs 1800W)
- Heavier than other models
- Controls are less intuitive than Breville
Standout Values
The Emeril Lagasse oven’s standout feature is its generous capacity combined with the elegant French door design. For large families or those who entertain frequently, the ability to cook larger quantities in a single batch is invaluable. The rotisserie function also provides cooking options not available in many competing models.
Perfect for Family Meals and Entertaining
The Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven offers generous capacity and versatile cooking options for larger households.
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Comparison: Breville vs. Ninja vs. Emeril Air Fryer Ovens
| Feature | Breville BOV950BSS | Ninja SP351 | Emeril Lagasse |
| Price Range | $499-$550 | $279-$329 | $199-$249 |
| Cooking Functions | 16 | 13 | 24 |
| Smart Features | App, Voice Control | Digital Thermometer | None |
| Capacity | 1 cu. ft. | 0.8 cu. ft. | 26 quarts (0.9 cu. ft.) |
| Wattage | 1800W | 1800W | 1500W |
| Unique Selling Point | Smart Connectivity | Space-Saving Design | French Doors & Rotisserie |
| Build Quality | Premium | Good | Good |
| Customer Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.3/5 |
| Best For | Tech enthusiasts, serious cooks | Small kitchens, value seekers | Large families, budget-conscious |
While all three models offer excellent air frying capabilities, they target different user needs. The Breville excels in innovative features and premium construction, the Ninja offers space-saving innovation, and the Emeril provides generous capacity at a more accessible price point.
Easy Tips to Maintain and Keep Your Air Fryer For Longevity
Regular Cleaning
Clean your air fryer oven after each use to prevent the buildup of food residue and grease. For the Breville Joule Smart Oven, allow it to cool completely before cleaning. Use a soft, damp cloth with mild soap for the exterior and interior surfaces, avoiding the heating elements.
Accessory Care
Hand-wash accessories like the air fry basket, pizza pan, and roasting tray with warm, soapy water. While some accessories may be dishwasher-safe, hand washing will extend their lifespan. Dry thoroughly before storing to prevent rust or water spots.
Dealing with Stubborn Residue
For baked-on food, create a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the affected area, and let it sit for 20 minutes before wiping it clean. Never use abrasive cleaners or metal scouring pads, which can damage non-stick surfaces and scratch glass doors.
Proper Storage
Store your air fryer oven in a clean, dry place. If counter space allows, keep it accessible for frequent use. For the Ninja model with a flip-away design, please use its vertical storage capability to save space when not in use.
Preventing Odors
To eliminate lingering food odors, place a small bowl of white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio) in the oven and heat at 300°F for 10 minutes. Allow to cool, then wipe the interior with a damp cloth.
Never immerse your air fryer oven in water or spray cleaning solutions directly onto heating elements. Always unplug the appliance before cleaning and ensure it’s cool before using it again.
Key Takeaways
- The Breville BOV950BSS Joule Smart Oven Air Fryer offers premium construction and innovative smart features that justify its higher price for tech-savvy cooks.
- Ninja’s SP351 provides excellent value with its space-saving design, making it ideal for smaller kitchens or those on a tighter budget.
- The Emeril Lagasse model excels in capacity and value, making it perfect for larger families who need to cook larger batches.
- All three models deliver excellent air-frying results but differ in innovative features, capacity, and design aesthetics.
- Regular maintenance is crucial for extending the lifespan of any air fryer oven, regardless of brand or price point.
- The Element IQ system in the Breville model provides superior temperature control and cooking precision compared to competitors.
Ready to Upgrade Your Kitchen?
Choose the air fryer oven that best matches your cooking style, kitchen space, and budget.
Breville BOV950BSS Joule Smart Oven Air Fryer: Conclusion
After thorough testing and comparison, the Breville BOV950BSS Joule Smart Oven Air Fryer stands out as the premium choice for those who value cutting-edge technology and superior cooking performance. Its innovative features and precise temperature control deliver consistently excellent results across a wide range of cooking methods.
For those with space constraints or budget considerations, both the Ninja SP351 and Emeril Lagasse models offer compelling alternatives with their own unique strengths. The Ninja excels in space efficiency, while the Emeril provides exceptional capacity for larger households.
Ultimately, your choice should align with your specific cooking needs, kitchen space, and the value you place on smart connectivity. Whichever model you choose, these versatile appliances will transform your cooking experience by combining multiple functions in a single convenient package.
FAQs About Breville BOV950BSS Joule Smart Oven Air Fryer
Is the Breville Joule Smart Oven Air Fryer worth the premium price?
For tech-savvy cooks who will utilize the innovative features and app connectivity, the Breville BOV950BSS Joule Smart Oven Air Fryer offers value that justifies its premium price. The Element IQ system provides superior temperature control, and the Autopilot feature simplifies complex recipes. However, if you won’t use these advanced features, the Ninja or Emeril models may provide better value.
How does the Breville Joule Smart Oven compare to a dedicated air fryer?
The Breville BOV950BSS Joule Smart Oven Air Fryer offers more versatility than a dedicated air fryer, combining multiple appliances in one. While dedicated air fryers may heat up faster due to their smaller size, the Breville’s larger capacity allows you to cook more food at once. The super convection feature ensures crispy results comparable to those of dedicated air fryers while also offering additional cooking functions.
Can the Breville Joule Smart Oven replace my regular oven?
For many everyday cooking tasks, the Breville Joule Smart Oven can effectively replace a regular oven, especially for smaller households. It preheats faster, uses less energy, and offers precise temperature control. However, its capacity is limited compared to a full-sized oven, so it may not be suitable for large holiday meals or extensive baking projects.
How difficult is it to clean the Breville BOV950BSS?
The Breville BOV950BSS Joule Smart Oven Air Fryer features a non-stick interior, making cleaning relatively easy. The removable crumb tray and accessories can be hand-washed with warm, soapy water. For the interior, wait until the oven is completely cool, then wipe with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners and never touch the heating elements during cleaning.
Do I need to download the app to use the Breville Joule Smart Oven?
No, the Breville BOV950BSS Joule Smart Oven Air Fryer functions perfectly well without the app. All standard cooking functions are accessible via the oven’s physical controls. However, to access the Autopilot feature, guided recipes, and some exclusive cooking modes, you’ll need to download the Breville+ app and connect your oven.
