Aesthetically pleasing and functions well
5/5
This is a replacement for an AEG basic fan oven which finally gave up after providing 18 years of troubled free service.
Prior to this purchase, I have also shortlisted a Bosch of similar price range and features, however, after examining both ovens at a high street store, I decided on this AEG because the overall built quality feels better, the internal appears more spacious with wider and more minimalistic designed shelves, while the outer aesthetic is more streamline, has less black and appears more expensive overall. I was also pleasantly surprised to discover that the steel on the AEG is truly finger print resistant and the Bosch is actually not.
Having used it a few times for various food items, I am very impressed with the performance and the fancy functions (have not tried them all yet). So far, the special program turned out moist tender meat with the lightest crunchiest cracklings, the standard fan oven delivered the fluffiest Yorkshire puddings and the most superb roasted potatoes, while the steam function gave excellent result to my French baguettes.
The oven must be far more energy efficient compare to my old oven. It heats up rapidly, and the fan operates very quietly, turning off once it reaches temperature and restart again when needed.
As for cleaning, I have not found the walls easier or harder to clean compare to my old AEG, but the much brighter internal light does provide better vision. Despite the claim of the easy clean smooth enamel, the oven back did require some elbow grease to clean after roasting meat. As for the oven shelves, they are relatively easy to wipe clean due to less nooks and crannies compare to the Bosch version, however, being wider at 46.6 cm means they can no longer sit flat in my 45cm wide sink for soaking.
Overall I am very pleased with this oven. Given it’s features, performance and price ratio, I believe this purchase is the correct decision.