Toshiba ChefFry Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo Review 12-in-1 Kitchen Appliance

Description

Exploring the TOSHIBA ChefFry Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo

I recently got my hands on the TOSHIBA ChefFry Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo (Model TL-AC264CZA(SS)), and it has been quite an experience experimenting with this multifunctional kitchen device. As someone who loves trying out new gadgets in the kitchen, I was excited to dive into its 12-in-1 versatility and test all its features. From air frying to dehydrating, this toaster oven promised a lot, but it also came with a few considerations. Here’s my honest take on it.

Design and Build Quality

A strong first impression comes from the stainless steel finish, which gives the appliance a sleek, modern look. It fits well on my countertop without feeling overly bulky, despite its 26.4QT capacity. The dropdown door style is not just stylish but also functional, offering easier access to food without awkward maneuvering. The LED display is bright and user-friendly, and the knob control system makes navigating through its various settings straightforward. However, I did notice that the knobs felt a bit plasticky, which slightly detracts from the otherwise premium feel.

The interior space is generous, comfortably fitting items like a 12-inch pizza, 6 slices of bread, or even a 4lb chicken. This makes it ideal for a family or anyone who loves hosting gatherings. I did find the unit to be on the heavier side at 18.16 pounds, so moving it around isn’t the most convenient task.

Cooking Performance and Features

The performance of this device revolves around its Super ChefFry Airfry Technology, which promises crispier and healthier results using up to 90% less oil. Testing this out with frozen fries and chicken wings, I was genuinely impressed by how evenly everything cooked. The fries were crispy without being overly dry, and the wings had that perfect golden-brown finish. The fact that you don’t need to preheat the oven in air fry mode is a huge time saver.

Beyond air frying, I explored its other functions like baking cookies, roasting vegetables, and even proofing dough. Each function worked as advertised, and the digital temperature and time control with precise adjustments (in 5°F increments) ensured I had complete control over the cooking process. The temperature range of 80°F to 450°F is versatile enough for most recipes, whether you’re slow-cooking or broiling something intensely.

One feature I found particularly useful was the dehydrate function. It worked wonders on apple slices, transforming them into perfectly chewy snacks. The baking rack and air fry basket included in the box are practical and easy to use, though I had to experiment a bit with placing food to ensure even cooking.

Key Benefits

• All-in-One Functionality: This toaster oven replaces multiple appliances, offering air frying, baking, broiling, and even dehydrating in one compact unit.
• Healthier Cooking Options: The air fry mode uses far less oil while still delivering that satisfying crispy texture.
• Generous Capacity: Its large size makes it perfect for family meals or meal prep.
• User-Friendly Design: The combination of an LED display and knob controls simplifies operation, even for beginners.
• Time Efficiency: The lack of preheating for air frying is a game changer for quick meals.

Favorable Attributes

• The stainless steel body is durable and easy to clean.
• Cooking temperatures and times are adjustable with precise digital controls.
• The oven comes with all necessary accessories, including a crumb tray, baking tray, rack, and air fry basket.
• Multi-functional capabilities save countertop space by eliminating the need for separate gadgets.

Areas for Improvement

While the product performs well overall, there are a few shortcomings to consider:

• Knob Build Quality: The control knobs feel slightly flimsy, which could be improved for a more premium touch.
• Size and Weight: At nearly 18 pounds, it’s not the easiest appliance to move around or tuck away.
• Noise Levels: The fan can be a bit noisy during operation, especially in air fry mode.
• Learning Curve: With so many functions, it takes a bit of trial and error to master all the settings.

Competing Products

In the world of air fryer toaster oven combos, there are plenty of competing brands to consider. I’ve previously tried products from Ninja and Cuisinart, both of which offer similar functionalities. The Ninja Foodi models excel in their build quality and quieter operation, but they don’t always match the versatility of 12 functions like this Toshiba unit. On the other hand, Cuisinart’s models are known for their intuitive controls, though they often come with a smaller capacity, making them less practical for larger families.

Where this Toshiba oven shines is in its balance of features and price point. It may not have the premium feel of some competitors, but its versatility and cooking performance more than make up for it.

Cost Efficiency

Given its extensive range of features, this product offers excellent value for its price. Many standalone air fryers or toaster ovens don’t provide the same level of functionality, meaning you’d have to buy multiple devices to match what this single unit can do. For anyone looking to save countertop space while still having access to a variety of cooking methods, this appliance is worth every penny. Of course, it’s not the most budget-friendly option out there, but the combination of size, performance, and convenience justifies the investment.

If you’re someone who values multitasking in your kitchen appliances, this air fryer toaster oven combo is a solid choice. Just be prepared for a bit of noise and a learning curve as you get used to its many features.

Additional information