I finally had to replace a Delonghi that I used for 13 years. That is a pretty good run for a small appliance these days. Plus, I used it a lot. So I naturally set out to get another DeLonghi to replace it (presumably for another 13 years).
What I discovered was that toaster ovens have become much more advanced and perhaps more complex as well. I usually embrace technology in all other aspects of my life but I really liked the simplicity of 3 knobs to turn. Idiot proof. I didn't relish the idea of having to punch a bunch of buttons to reheat a casserole or even make toast.
However I did a little research and decided to get a convection type oven. I narrowed it down to 2 or 3 and chose this one based on some key factors:
1. The crumb tray must be removed from the FRONT. Rear removal is a deal breaker.
2. The LCD should light up. This one does, but many don't.
3. The oven should shut itself off after cooking time is done, just like a microwave. I multi-task in the kitchen so setting separate egg timers for separate dishes gets to be a nuisance. Plus it is safer.
Okay, one real choice -- the Krups.
Now the bonuses:
1. Fast foods like fries, fish sticks, chicken tenders come out evenly cooked and very crisp.
2. There is no interior light (I didn't need one) but the heating elements are so bright that you can pretty much see everything when one is activated.
3. The controls are very easy to use. A quick read of the manual and I owned the controls.
4. Food is invariably cooked in less time with better results. This may be seen as a negative initially because you need to guesstimate cooking times. I find that with foods/recipies that provide a range (i.e., 15-18 mins.), just go with the lower value and it comes out pretty near perfect.
5. The price is very competitive and well-worth it in my opinion. I even paid more for mine at the time of purchase (price has gone down since).
In conclusion, I am very pleased. But I guess that is clear by now.
P.S. The instructions say to run the oven empty for 15 mins before using it. Do this. Mine emitted a smell when first running empty (residue from manufacturing I suppose). As a precaution, I did it a second time and no smell.
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Krups FBC2 6-Slice Digital Convection Toaster Oven, BlackProduct Description: Krups high-speed quartz heating system takes masterful control of heat in the chamber. Each set of quartz heating element, both top and bottom, is alternately powered at the full 1600 watts to maximize the effect of radiant heat. The heat distribution is aided by a special reflective crumb tray that directs this important form of heat to all corners for excellent results. Convection heat, important for longer baking times, circulates heated air around the food for the best result in the fastest time. The defrost function uses the convection fan only and gently and evenly defrosts food without producing hot spots. This 6-slice toaster oven has temperature controls in 25 degree increments from 150-450 degrees, a digital timer from 1 minute to 90 minutes and an auto shut off after elapsed time. For toasting, it has 9 levels or browning with a countdown timer. Illuminated LCD control panel with easy to use controls and high quality soft touch buttons, it has a digital clock that displays when the cooking functions are not in use.The non-stick interior surface is durable and easy to clean. This unit includes a non-stick bake pan, broiling tray and thermal resistant tongs for safe removal of hot pans or food and comes with a 1-year warranty.
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I am very satisfied with this product.It enabled me to replace a defective timer on an otherwise perfectly good toaster oven.
I like the looks of this oven.I had a Cuisinart Convection Toaster Oven that I tossed after two years.Unlike the Cuisinart the T-Fal is easy to clean, it doesn't have an area by the glass-hinged door that is impossible to clean.The crumb tray is accessed from the front of the oven, not the back.Also the T-Fal shuts off when the time on the timer is done.The warming tray is great for warming hot dog buns while broiling hot dogs in the oven.The controls are straight forward and easy to use without having to read the manual.I'm looking forward to many years of good cooking with this oven.If I experience any problems I'll update this review.
The rack was exactly what we needed.The quality has been top-notch --- it has met all of our expections --- a perfect fit.Once again we are enjoying our Delonghi Toaster Oven!!
1. I love this toaster oven. 2. I checked with Cuisinart and it is the exact same oven as the TOB-175 that goes for $[...] and has 5 star ratings and is top rated by Consumer Reports.The CTO-350PC is the price club model number.I got mine for $[...] at Costco.