KitchenAid Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven KCO124BM review and performance insights

Description

Key Benefits of the KitchenAid Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven

I’ve had the pleasure of testing out the KitchenAid Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven, KCO124BM in my own kitchen, and it’s safe to say, this device has some serious upside. The versatility of this appliance is immediately apparent. From baking a 9×13-inch sheet cake to air frying crispy golden fries, this oven caters to a wide range of cooking needs, all while taking up minimal counter space.

• 360° Air Fry System: The inclusion of the No-Flip Air Fry Basket is a game-changer. It ensures an even crisp on all sides, eliminating the need to tediously flip your food. Whether I was making fish or fries, the results were consistently perfect.
• Even-Heat Convection Technology: The dual heating elements and convection fan worked together seamlessly. I noticed that the inside of the oven stayed at a steady, precise temperature, which helped avoid those pesky cold spots.
• Spacious Interior: Despite its countertop-friendly size, this oven accommodated everything from a 12-inch pizza to two full-sized chickens. It’s a lifesaver for hosting small gatherings or preparing multi-course meals.
• Multiple Cooking Settings: With 9 settings, including proofing, dehydration, broiling, and toasting, this oven offers incredible flexibility. It’s like having a mini professional kitchen at your fingertips.

Design and Build Quality

The sleek black matte finish was the first thing that caught my eye. It gives the oven a modern and stylish appearance that fits effortlessly into a variety of kitchen aesthetics. The dropdown door, combined with the glass panel, made it easy to monitor my food as it cooked. Each component, including the removable crumb tray and metal racks, felt sturdy and well-constructed. I especially appreciated how easy it was to clean up after use—no more wrestling with stuck-on crumbs!

Weighing in at 15.9 pounds, it’s portable enough to move around when needed but heavy enough to feel durable. The intuitive knob controls simplified the cooking process, and I didn’t find myself fumbling to figure out the settings. Everything felt straightforward, which is a big plus if you’re not a fan of overly complicated appliances.

Performance and Versatility

This oven performs like a champ. The fast preheat feature was something I didn’t know I needed until I used it. It took less than 4 minutes to get the oven ready, saving me a ton of time during meal prep. I also experimented with the proofing and dehydration functions, and both worked as advertised. The dehydration setting, in particular, was a hit—I managed to make some amazing dried fruit snacks that my kids couldn’t get enough of.

One thing that stood out was how evenly everything cooked. The Even-Heat Convection Technology ensured there were no undercooked or overcooked spots. I tested it with a batch of cookies and a whole chicken, both of which came out perfectly. The air fry feature added a delightful crispness without the need for excess oil, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frying.

Areas for Improvement

While I’m mostly impressed with this oven, it’s not without its flaws.

• The control knobs, while functional, could feel a bit more premium given the oven’s price point. They work fine, but they didn’t match the overall high-quality feel of the rest of the appliance.
• Fan noise: The convection fan was slightly louder than I expected. It wasn’t deafening by any means, but it’s something to consider if you’re sensitive to noise in the kitchen.
• Size limitations: Despite its spacious interior, it still has its limits. If you’re someone who regularly cooks for a large family or hosts big parties, this might not replace your full-sized oven.

Competing Brands

Comparing this product to similar countertop ovens on the market, I found that it holds its own quite well. For instance, brands like Breville and Cuisinart offer similar appliances, but each has its pros and cons.

The Breville Smart Oven Air comes with additional smart features like app connectivity, but it’s significantly more expensive. While the Cuisinart TOA-60 Air Fryer Toaster Oven is a bit more budget-friendly, it doesn’t match the KitchenAid’s 360° Air Fry System in terms of even cooking. Where the KitchenAid shines is in its large capacity and versatility, which makes it a great middle ground between these competitors.

Value for Money

In terms of price to quality ratio, this oven offers excellent value. It combines a sleek design, impressive functionality, and a range of features that make it a worthwhile investment for most households. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the performance and convenience it offers justify the cost. I’d say it’s worth every penny if you’re looking for a countertop oven that can handle just about anything you throw at it.

Ultimately, this air fry countertop oven is a solid choice for anyone who wants the functionality of a full-sized oven in a more compact and efficient package. Whether you’re baking, frying, or just toasting some bread, it delivers consistently great results with minimal hassle.

Additional information