The Tovala Smart Oven Pro, 6-in-1 Countertop Convection Oven represents a fascinating intersection between traditional cooking appliances and modern smart home technology. Launched at $349, this WiFi-enabled countertop oven promises to revolutionise weeknight cooking through its innovative scan-to-cook technology and meal subscription service integration. But does this smart appliance genuinely deliver on its promises, or is it merely an overpriced toaster oven with unnecessary bells and whistles? After thorough research and analysis of real-world testing, here’s everything you need to know about this intriguing kitchen gadget.

What Makes the Tovala Smart Oven Pro Different?

At its core, the Tovala Smart Oven Pro is a multifunctional countertop oven that combines six cooking methods into a single appliance: baking, broiling, toasting, reheating, air frying, and steaming. Whilst many toaster ovens offer similar functionality, what sets the Tovala apart is its seamless integration with both a proprietary meal subscription service and a smartphone app that allows you to scan QR codes on over 1,000 branded grocery items for automatic cooking settings.

The oven features a built-in barcode scanner positioned conveniently on the front panel, allowing users to simply scan meal kits or compatible grocery products to initiate pre-programmed cooking cycles. This scan-to-cook technology eliminates the need to manually input temperatures and cooking times, theoretically making meal preparation more efficient and foolproof.

Technical Specifications

Understanding the technical specifications helps determine whether the Tovala Smart Oven Pro fits your kitchen space and cooking needs:

Physical Dimensions:

• Exterior: 18.5″ (L) x 14.32″ (D) x 11.75″ (H) with handle
• Interior: 12.75″ (L) x 11″ (D) x 8″ (H)
• Weight: 20.9 pounds
• Clearance required: 6 inches on all sides for safety

Cooking Capacity:

The interior cavity can accommodate a 10-inch pizza, a 4-pound chicken, or up to four Tovala meal trays simultaneously. This capacity is comparable to standard toaster ovens, making it suitable for small households but potentially limiting for larger families.

Power and Performance:

• Power consumption: 1,525 watts
• Voltage: Standard 120V household current
• Heating method: Convection with single-speed fan

Connectivity:

• WiFi-enabled for app connectivity
• Compatible with iOS and Android devices
• Integrated barcode scanner for QR code recognition

Cooking Functions:

1. Bake: Traditional convection baking
2. Broil: Top-down high-heat cooking
3. Toast: Bread toasting with adjustable settings
4. Reheat: Gentle warming function
5. Air Fry: Convection-based frying using included basket
6. Steam: Dedicated steaming function with water reservoir

Special Features:

• Water reservoir for steam cooking (unique to the Pro model)
• Built-in steamer located at the rear of the oven interior
• Dishwasher-safe components

Colour Options:

Available in Charcoal Black

What’s Included in the Box

When you purchase the Tovala Smart Oven Pro, the package includes several essential accessories:

• Main oven unit with integrated scanner
• Dishwasher-safe air fry basket
• Baking sheet (dishwasher-safe)
• Oven rack
• Crumb tray for easy cleaning
• Oven mitt for safe handling
• Water measuring cup with spout for steam function
• Quick start guide and user manual

The inclusion of these accessories means you can begin cooking immediately without purchasing additional equipment, although you’ll need to download the Tovala app to access the full range of smart features.

The Tovala Meal Subscription Service

One cannot discuss the Tovala Smart Oven Pro without addressing its companion meal subscription service, as the two are intrinsically linked in the product’s value proposition.

How It Works:

The meal subscription operates similarly to services like Blue Apron or Sun Basket, but with a crucial difference: each meal arrives with a QR code that, when scanned, automatically programmes the oven with the precise cooking cycle needed. The meals come with most preparation work completed, requiring users to simply combine ingredients and initiate cooking.

Subscription Options:

Users can select between 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, or 16 meals per week, with each serving starting at $9.99. The service offers over 35 meal options weekly, with filtering options for various dietary requirements including vegetarian, gluten-free, carb-conscious, and pescatarian preferences. Whilst the menu primarily features dinner and lunch options, breakfast items, snacks, and desserts are also available.

Flexibility:

The subscription can be paused, skipped, or cancelled at any time, providing flexibility for users who may not need meals every week. Meals must be selected one week in advance, though the service does offer reasonable adaptability for changing schedules.

Delivery and Storage:

Meals arrive in insulated coolers with ice packs, with proteins strategically placed against ice to maintain optimal freshness. Each meal box displays a prominent “best by” date, and meals typically last between 2 to 7 days in the refrigerator upon arrival. Tovala provides instructions for freezing meals if needed for longer storage.

Important Consideration:

Meals serve one person per kit, which may prove impractical for families. Additionally, whilst you can cook two meals simultaneously, they must require identical cooking settings, as the oven cannot accommodate two different programmes concurrently.

Setting Up the Tovala Smart Oven Pro

Initial setup requires more time than a traditional toaster oven but remains straightforward for most users:

1. Physical Installation: Position the oven with adequate clearance (6 inches on all sides) and ensure access to a standard electrical outlet.
2. App Download: Install the Tovala app from either the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
3. Initial Heating: Fill the steamer basket with water using the provided cup and run a 20-minute initial heating cycle to cure the oven. Some users may notice a slight smell during this process, which is normal for new appliances.
4. WiFi Connection: Register the oven in the app and connect it to your home WiFi network. Some users have reported requiring multiple attempts for successful connection, though the oven typically maintains connectivity once established.
5. Familiarisation: Review the app’s recipe library and practice using the scanning function with the meal kits or compatible grocery items.

The entire setup process typically takes 30-45 minutes, including the initial heating cycle.

Real-World Performance

Toasting Performance:

The toast function allows selection of 1-6 slices, with the oven automatically adjusting cooking time based on quantity. However, there’s no traditional light-to-dark dial; instead, users increase the slice number to achieve darker toast. Toasting takes approximately 5 minutes or more, considerably longer than standard pop-up toasters but typical for countertop ovens. The results are consistent and even, though those accustomed to quick toasting may find the duration frustrating.

Baking Function:

The baking function excels at everyday tasks like roasting vegetables, baking small batches of cookies, and cooking proteins. The oven provides countdown timers during preheating and sends smartphone notifications when it reaches the target temperature – a significant improvement over traditional ovens with simple indicator lights. Real-world testing confirms even heat distribution and reliable results across various baking applications.

Air Frying:

The air frying function initially confuses some users, as there’s no dedicated air fry button. Instead, users select the bake function and use the included air fry basket. Whilst this approach works effectively, it lacks the intuitive interface found on competing appliances with clearly labelled air fry modes. Performance matches expectations for countertop convection cooking, producing crispy results without excessive oil.

Steaming Function:

The steaming capability distinguishes the Pro model from the basic Tovala Smart Oven Air Fryer. The water reservoir, located above the scanner, feeds water to the steamer at the rear of the oven interior. This function proves particularly valuable for cooking proteins whilst maintaining moisture, and testers report this feature prevents the drying-out common with standard oven cooking.

Scan-to-Cook Technology:

The barcode scanning functionality represents the oven’s most innovative feature. Testing confirms compatibility with numerous supermarket products, including frozen pizzas, waffles, and various packaged foods. The scanner reliably reads QR codes, automatically initiating appropriate cooking cycles. This feature genuinely saves time by eliminating the need to locate and input cooking instructions manually.

App Integration:

The smartphone app serves multiple purposes: recipe browsing, meal subscription management, remote cooking initiation, and progress monitoring. The app contains a library of chef-created recipes with step-by-step instructions. Users can start preheating remotely and receive notifications when cooking completes, adding genuine convenience to the cooking process.

Meal Kit Experience

Real-world testing of the Tovala meal kits reveals several noteworthy points:

Quality and Freshness:

Meal ingredients arrive fresh with careful attention to packaging. Proteins are placed directly against ice packs, with less perishable items layered above. All components come pre-measured, significantly reducing preparation time.

Cooking Process:

Scanning the QR code on meal boxes automatically configures the oven with the precise cooking cycle required. The oven handles temperature adjustments and timing changes throughout the cooking process, occasionally employing multiple cooking methods (such as steaming followed by broiling) to achieve optimal results.

Taste and Portion Sizes:

Meal quality receives generally positive reviews, with flavours described as adequate to good. Portions prove filling for most adults without being excessive. The meals feel more sophisticated than typical weeknight fare, though opinions on specific dishes vary based on personal preferences.

Limitations:

Meals designed for one person may prove impractical for families, particularly those with young children who may not appreciate the more sophisticated flavour profiles. Whilst the oven can accommodate up to four meal trays, cooking multiple different meals simultaneously requires they all use identical settings, which extends dinner preparation time when family members want different options.

Advantages of the Tovala Smart Oven Pro

Multifunctionality:

Six cooking functions in one appliance reduces countertop clutter and eliminates the need for separate toasters, steamers, and air fryers. This consolidation proves particularly valuable in smaller kitchens with limited space.

Scan-to-Cook Convenience:

The barcode scanning technology genuinely simplifies cooking, particularly for frozen convenience foods and meal kits. This feature removes guesswork and reduces the likelihood of undercooked or overcooked food.

Smart Connectivity:

WiFi integration and smartphone notifications add meaningful convenience, allowing users to monitor cooking progress remotely and receive alerts when food is ready. The app’s recipe library provides additional value beyond the meal subscription service.

Steam Function:

The dedicated steaming capability (exclusive to the Pro model) offers a cooking method rarely found in countertop ovens. This function proves valuable for health-conscious cooking and maintaining moisture in proteins.

Build Quality:

The oven demonstrates solid construction with a durable feel. The included accessories are well-made, and dishwasher-safe components simplify cleanup.

Meal Subscription Integration:

For those who value convenience, the seamless integration with the meal service offers a unique solution to weeknight dinner planning. The combination of minimal preparation and automatic cooking appeals to busy professionals and those who find traditional meal planning overwhelming.

Faster Than Full-Size Ovens:

Like all countertop ovens, the Tovala preheats more quickly than standard full-size ovens, making it more energy-efficient for small cooking tasks.

Disadvantages and Limitations

Price Point:

At $349, the Tovala Smart Oven Pro costs significantly more than basic toaster ovens, which start around $99. Whilst the smart features justify some premium, budget-conscious consumers may struggle with the investment, particularly if they don’t intend to use the meal subscription service.

Meal Subscription Costs:

The meal service adds ongoing expenses, with weekly costs ranging from $39.96 for four meals to $159.84 for sixteen meals. This represents a significant monthly commitment that may not suit all budgets.

Single-Person Meal Limitations:

Meal kits serve one person, making family dinners complicated. Parents with young children report needing to prepare separate meals, negating the convenience factor for households with diverse preferences.

Learning Curve:

The air frying function’s non-intuitive implementation (requiring use of the bake setting with the basket) confuses some users initially. The toast function’s slice-based system rather than a traditional light/dark dial also requires adjustment.

Space Requirements:

The oven’s footprint (18.5″ x 14.32″ x 11.75″) with required 6-inch clearances demands substantial counter space. Small kitchens may struggle to accommodate the appliance and its accessories.

WiFi Setup Challenges:

Some users report difficulty establishing initial WiFi connection, requiring multiple attempts. Whilst the oven maintains connectivity once established, the initial setup frustration deserves mention.

Slow Toasting:

Toast preparation takes 5+ minutes, significantly longer than pop-up toasters. Users accustomed to quick morning routines may find this frustrating.

Limited Simultaneous Cooking:

The inability to cook multiple different meals simultaneously (unless they require identical settings) limits efficiency for families wanting varied options. Whilst up to four meal trays physically fit in the oven, they must all follow the same cooking programme.

Steamer Maintenance:

The water reservoir requires regular filling and cleaning to prevent mineral buildup. The manufacturer recommends periodic cleaning cycles with vinegar solution to maintain steamer function.

Meal Variety Preferences:

Meal kit flavours receive mixed reviews, with taste being subjective. Some testers find meals only “adequate” rather than exceptional, raising questions about long-term subscription value.

Comparison With Its Predecessor

The Tovala Smart Oven Pro represents an evolution from previous Tovala oven models. The most significant enhancement is the addition of the dedicated steam function with its built-in water reservoir, which the earlier models lacked. The Pro model also features a single-speed convection fan, whereas the newer Tovala Smart Oven Air Fryer (a different model in the current lineup) includes a two-speed fan but removes the steam function entirely.

The Pro model maintains the 1,525-watt power output and similar dimensions to its predecessors whilst incorporating improved WiFi connectivity and an expanded database of scannable grocery products. The core scan-to-cook technology has been refined based on user feedback, though the fundamental concept remains unchanged from earlier iterations.

Who Should Consider the Tovala Smart Oven Pro?

Ideal Candidates:

• Single professionals or couples without children who value convenience
• Busy individuals who struggle with meal planning and preparation
• Home cooks with adequate counter space seeking appliance consolidation
• Tech-savvy users who appreciate smart home integration
• People who regularly cook frozen convenience foods and would benefit from scan-to-cook functionality
• Those interested in exploring steam cooking without purchasing a dedicated steamer

Less Suitable For:

• Large families requiring multiple servings simultaneously
• Budget-conscious consumers who can’t justify the premium price
• Individuals with limited counter space
• Those satisfied with basic toaster ovens who don’t need smart features
• Families with young children who require simpler meal options
• Users uncomfortable with ongoing subscription expenses

Maintenance and Cleaning

The Tovala Smart Oven Pro requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance:

Routine Cleaning:

• The crumb tray should be emptied after each use
• The air fry basket and baking sheet are dishwasher-safe
• The oven interior should be wiped clean regularly with a damp cloth
• The water reservoir requires draining between uses to prevent bacterial growth

Deep Cleaning:

The app includes a built-in cleaning cycle that uses steam to loosen food residue. Users should run this cycle periodically, particularly if cooking frequently generates splatter or debris.

Steamer Maintenance:

To prevent mineral buildup in the steaming system, Tovala recommends running a cleaning cycle with a mixture of filtered water and distilled white vinegar. This maintenance should occur every few weeks, depending on usage frequency and local water hardness.

Hand-Wash Components:

Whilst many accessories are dishwasher-safe, the user manual specifies that certain components require hand washing to maintain longevity.

The Verdict

The Tovala Smart Oven Pro, 6-in-1 Countertop Convection Oven occupies a unique niche in the kitchen appliance market. Its combination of multifunctional cooking capabilities, smart technology integration, and meal subscription service creates an ecosystem that genuinely streamlines weeknight cooking for its target audience. The scan-to-cook technology delivers on its promise, removing guesswork from cooking times and temperatures for hundreds of grocery products.

However, the $349 price tag positions this as a premium appliance that won’t appeal to everyone. The ongoing meal subscription costs, whilst optional, represent where the system truly shines, meaning the full value proposition requires additional investment beyond the initial purchase. Single-person meal portions and the inability to cook multiple different items simultaneously limit its practicality for families.

The oven performs admirably across its six cooking functions, with the steam capability proving particularly valuable. Build quality inspires confidence, and the included accessories demonstrate thoughtful design. WiFi connectivity adds genuine convenience rather than serving as a gimmick, with the app providing meaningful functionality through remote monitoring and an extensive recipe library.

For single professionals and couples seeking to minimise weeknight cooking stress whilst maintaining reasonably healthy eating habits, the Tovala Smart Oven Pro represents an excellent investment. The time savings from scan-to-cook technology and simplified meal preparation justify the premium for those who value convenience highly. However, families, budget-conscious consumers, and those with limited counter space should carefully consider whether the benefits align with their specific needs before committing to this premium appliance.

The Tovala Smart Oven Pro succeeds in its primary mission: making cooking more accessible and less time-consuming for busy individuals. Whilst it won’t replace traditional cooking for everyone, it offers a compelling solution for its intended audience. As smart kitchen technology continues evolving, the Tovala represents an early but mature implementation of genuinely useful connectivity features that enhance rather than merely complicate the cooking experience.

Final Considerations:

• Cooking Performance: Excellent across all six functions
• Smart Features: Highly functional and genuinely useful
• Value for Money: Good for target audience; questionable for others
• Build Quality: Solid construction with premium feel
• Convenience Factor: Outstanding for singles and couples
• Meal Service: Quality adequate; convenience exceptional

The Tovala Smart Oven Pro earns its place in modern kitchens that prioritise efficiency and technology integration, provided users understand its limitations and align their expectations with its capabilities. For the right household, it transforms weeknight cooking from a chore into a streamlined, nearly effortless process. For others, a traditional toaster oven may better serve their needs at a fraction of the cost.

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