Breville the Compact Smart Oven Review: Small Size, Big Performance

When counter space is at a premium, finding an oven that delivers full-size results without dominating your kitchen can feel like a compromise. Enter the Breville the Compact Smart Oven™, a countertop appliance that packs the brand's signature smart technology into a more compact frame. In this review, we'll explore whether this small toaster oven truly delivers big performance, covering design, functionality, and real-world cooking results.

Whether you're a student in a dorm, a city dweller with a galley kitchen, or simply someone who wants a secondary oven for quick meals, the Compact Smart Oven promises versatility. But does it live up to the Breville reputation? We put it through its paces to find out.

Design and Build Quality

The Breville Compact Smart Oven is designed to save space without sacrificing style. Its brushed stainless steel exterior and compact footprint make it a welcome addition to any countertop. Measuring just a few inches shorter than the full-size Smart Oven Air, it still offers a generous interior capacity that can accommodate a 12-inch pizza or a 4-slice toaster oven load.

The build quality is typical Breville: sturdy, well-insulated, and designed to last. The door is spring-loaded for smooth opening, and the interior is coated with a non-stick enamel that makes cleaning a breeze. The control panel is intuitive, with a digital display and dials that let you select cooking functions, temperature, and time with precision.

• Compact design fits easily under standard upper cabinets
• Non-stick interior for easy cleanup
• Intuitive digital controls with LCD display

Performance and Cooking Functions

Despite its smaller size, the Compact Smart Oven is a powerhouse. It offers a range of cooking functions including toast, bagel, bake, roast, broil, and even slow cook. Thanks to its smart algorithms, it automatically adjusts time and temperature for optimal results. We tested it with everything from crispy toast to a whole roasted chicken, and it performed admirably.

One standout feature is the 'Element IQ' system, which intelligently distributes power across the heating elements to maintain consistent temperatures. This ensures even browning and cooking, a common issue with smaller ovens. In our tests, cookies came out evenly golden, and frozen pizzas had a crispy crust without a burnt edge.

• Element IQ technology for precise heat distribution
• Nine preset cooking functions for effortless meals
• Slow cook function for tender, flavorful dishes

Comparison with Other Breville Ovens

If you're considering a Breville countertop oven, you might be weighing the Compact Smart Oven against its larger siblings, such as the Smart Oven Air. While the Air offers more capacity and additional features like air frying and dehydrating, the Compact Smart Oven is ideal for those who prioritize space and simplicity. It's also a more budget-friendly option without compromising on core cooking performance.

For espresso lovers, pairing the Compact Smart Oven with a high-end espresso machine like the the Oracle® Touch creates a complete kitchen setup. The oven's compact design leaves room for your coffee station, and its fast preheat time means you can have a fresh croissant ready to accompany your morning shot.

• Compact Smart Oven: best for small kitchens and basic baking needs
• Smart Oven Air: offers air frying and larger capacity for bigger households
• Consider your counter space and cooking habits when choosing

Ease of Use and Cleaning

The Compact Smart Oven is designed with the user in mind. The controls are straightforward, and the LCD screen provides clear feedback. The interior crumb tray slides out for easy disposal of crumbs and drips, and the non-stick coating means most spills wipe away with a damp cloth. The exterior stays cool to the touch, making it safe for homes with children.

Cleaning the oven is quick, but for deeper cleaning, you can use a gentle all-purpose cleaner on the exterior and a soft brush on the interior. Avoid abrasive pads to protect the non-stick surface. Regular maintenance will keep your oven performing at its best for years.

• Slide-out crumb tray for easy cleanup
• Non-stick interior resists stubborn residue
• Cool-touch exterior for safety

The Breville the Compact Smart Oven proves that great things come in small packages. It delivers consistent, even cooking, a user-friendly interface, and a design that enhances any kitchen. While it may not have the air fry function of larger models, its performance and compact footprint make it an excellent choice for small households, apartments, and anyone who wants a reliable countertop oven. If you're looking to upgrade your small toaster oven, this Breville model is a worthy investment.