NUWAVE Brio 7-in-1 Air Fryer Oven review with features and performance insights

Description

Pros of the NUWAVE Brio 7-in-1 Air Fryer Oven

I’ll admit I was skeptical when I first tried the NUWAVE Brio 7-in-1 Air Fryer Oven, 7.25-Quart. Air fryers have been hyped for years, and I wondered if this one could really stand out. Spoiler alert: it did. Its versatility is a game-changer, and it’s packed with features that make it more than just another countertop gadget.

• 7-in-1 functionality: This isn’t just an air fryer; it’s a multi-functional kitchen tool. It grills, bakes, broils, roasts, dehydrates, reheats, and toasts. I’ve used it for everything from crispy fries to dehydrated fruit snacks, and it handled each task with ease.
• 100 pre-programmed menu presets: With 100 presets built in, I barely had to think about what temperature or time to use. Plus, it has 50 additional memory slots for custom recipes.
• Health-conscious cooking: The ability to fry without oil means I’ve been cutting down on calories and guilt. Even frozen foods cook evenly without defrosting, which is perfect after a long day.
• Easy cleanup: The non-stick air circulation riser and reversible rack are dishwasher safe. Honestly, after using it, cleanup was the last thing on my mind because it was so simple.
• Precise temperature control: The patented Linear T Technology impressed me. It keeps the temperature steady, ensuring consistent cooking results every time. No more burnt edges or undercooked centers.

Downsides of This Air Fryer Oven

While the NUWAVE Brio has a lot to offer, it’s not without its flaws. Like any product, there are areas where it could improve.

• Size: It’s a bit bulky, so if you have limited counter space, you might struggle to find a permanent spot for it.
• Learning curve: With so many features and settings, it took me a while to explore all the options. Some might find it overwhelming at first.
• Noise levels: While not overly loud, the fan does make some noise during cooking, which might bother those who prefer a quieter kitchen environment.
• Price point: It’s not the cheapest air fryer on the market. While the features justify the cost, budget-conscious buyers might hesitate.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed was the sleek digital controls and the bright, easy-to-read display. Even in dim lighting, the interface is crystal clear. The 7.25-quart capacity is generous, making it ideal for families or meal prepping. The stainless steel reversible rack adds a premium touch and allows for multi-layer cooking, which I appreciated when I made steak and veggies simultaneously.

However, as much as I like the design, the unit takes up a good chunk of counter space. If you’re tight on room, it’s worth measuring before committing. That said, the build quality feels solid, and it’s clear that NUWAVE put thought into durability.

Performance in the Kitchen

Performance-wise, the Brio Air Fryer Oven doesn’t disappoint. I tested it on everything from frozen chicken wings to fresh-baked cookies, and it delivered consistently. The Linear T Technology made a noticeable difference; it keeps temperatures stable, so I didn’t have to worry about uneven cooking.

One of my favorite features is the “make adjustments on-the-fly” capability. Whether I needed to crank up the heat or extend the cooking time, it was seamless. I didn’t have to restart the process, which saved time and frustration.

Competing Products

In the crowded air fryer market, the Brio Air Fryer Oven faces some stiff competition. I’ve used the Ninja Foodi and Philips Airfryer in the past, and while they have their strengths, the Brio stands out for its versatility.

• Ninja Foodi: Known for its pressure cooking and air frying combo, Ninja offers more cooking styles. However, it lacks the sheer number of presets that the Brio provides.
• Philips Airfryer: Philips excels in simplicity and compact design. It’s smaller and less intimidating but doesn’t have multi-layer cooking or the same capacity.

Where the Brio truly shines is in its ability to handle multiple cooking tasks. From dehydrating to broiling, it outperforms most competitors in terms of features. However, if space is a concern, the smaller footprint of the Philips might appeal more.

Price Performance

This air fryer isn’t cheap, but it delivers excellent value for the price. I’ve seen less expensive models, but they often lack the durability, capacity, or features that the Brio offers. If you’re someone who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen or cooking for a crowd, it’s worth the investment.

That being said, if you’re just looking to occasionally make fries or chicken nuggets, there are more budget-friendly options available. But for those who want a do-it-all kitchen companion, this one is hard to beat.

Chef-Inspired Features

One standout aspect of the Brio is how chef-friendly the design is. The included presets and memory slots make it easy to experiment and save your own recipes. I’ve tried several of the chef-inspired recipes provided, and they were surprisingly good.

What’s more, the non-stick accessories are a dream to work with. Grilling, air frying, and even baking didn’t leave any stubborn residue, which made the experience feel professional yet approachable.

This air fryer oven feels like it was designed with real cooks in mind. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned pro, it’s easy to appreciate the thought that went into its functionality.