If you’re looking for Nuwave Bravo XL 20801 Reviews, here’s the short truth. It’s a strong countertop oven that can bake, roast, and air-fry in one small box. I’ve used it for a month, and it fits busy nights and small kitchens with ease. As someone who’s tested many ovens and air fryers, I can say it cooks evenly and feels solid for the price. It’s not perfect, but it does most jobs well without heating up the whole house. If you’re wondering if it’s worth it, keep reading — I’ll share what works, what doesn’t, and who it’s best for.
Is Nuwave Bravo XL 20801 Good?
Yes, it’s great! The Nuwave Bravo XL 20801 is a versatile and powerful appliance that acts as a convection toaster oven, air fryer, and smart indoor grill. I’ve used it for several months, and it’s become my go-to kitchen tool. Whether I’m making crispy fries, baking pizza, or grilling indoors during cold months, the Nuwave Bravo XL handles it all. With its 30QT large capacity, it’s perfect for family meals, and I love that it’s easy to clean with the removable drip tray.
What I Like
- Versatility: The Nuwave Bravo XL is a true smart grill combo. It can grill, bake, air fry, and dehydrate. It’s an all-in-one tool that saves space without losing functionality.
- 112 One-Touch Presets: I love how easy it is to use. I can just select a preset like “air fry” or “bake,” and the oven does the rest. It’s fast and simple.
- Linear Thermal (Linear T) Technology: This technology makes sure the temperature stays steady. There’s no more worrying about uneven cooking. I get perfect results every time.
- Stainless Steel Build: The stainless steel exterior looks great and lasts a long time. I haven’t had any issues with rust or wear, even after using it frequently.
What Could Be Better
- Size and Weight: The 30QT XL large capacity is great for big meals, but it can be bulky. It might not fit in smaller kitchens, so check your counter space before buying.
- Learning Curve: There are a lot of presets and settings. It took me a few tries to get used to it, but once I did, it was very easy to control.
- Price: While the Nuwave Bravo XL is packed with features, it’s a bit pricey. However, given its versatility and quality, it’s worth the investment.
My Personal Experience
I’ve been using the Nuwave Bravo XL for over a year now. It has truly changed the way I cook. From quick dinners to special meals, it delivers consistent results every time.
Cooking Capacity
The 30QT XL large capacity is a major selling point. I can cook a whole chicken or bake two loaves of bread at once. It’s perfect for family meals or gatherings. Plus, it allows for multi-layer cooking, so I can prepare multiple dishes at the same time without overcrowding.
Temperature Control
The Linear Thermal (Linear T) Technology ensures that the oven stays at a consistent temperature. I never have to worry about my food cooking unevenly. Whether I’m baking cookies or roasting vegetables, it’s always perfect.
Basket Material
The stainless steel racks are sturdy and easy to clean. Even after using them a lot, they still look great. The non-stick griddle plate is great for grilling and holds up to high heat. It’s easy to clean afterward, too.
Preheating Time
The preheating time is a little longer than a traditional oven, but it’s still faster than waiting for a full-size oven. I usually start preheating while I prepare my food, so it’s not a big issue. Once it’s heated, it cooks quickly.
Cooking Consistency
One of my favorite things about the Nuwave Bravo XL is how evenly it cooks. The convection fan and dual heating zones ensure that my food is always cooked just right. I’ve made everything from crispy chicken wings to perfectly baked bread, and it comes out the same every time.
Performance
The Nuwave Bravo XL performs beautifully. It cooks 3X faster than a regular oven and uses 90% less oil when air frying. It’s perfect for making healthier meals without compromising on taste. Plus, the smart digital thermostat makes it easy to reach the exact doneness I want.
Ease of Use
The 112 one-touch presets are a lifesaver. I’ve used it for everything from air frying to grilling indoors, and each preset takes the guesswork out of cooking. I can also adjust the settings while cooking, which gives me more control.
Value for Money
Though the Nuwave Bravo XL is a bit more expensive than other options, its ability to replace several kitchen gadgets makes it a great value. It’s a high-quality, versatile product that will last for years.
Overall
The Nuwave Bravo XL is an excellent all-in-one kitchen tool. It combines an air fryer, grill, toaster oven, and more into one compact appliance. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a multi-functional kitchen gadget that performs well, is easy to clean, and looks great. If you have the space, I highly recommend it. It’s been a game-changer in my kitchen.
My Bittersweet Experience: NuWave Bravo XL Problems and Solutions
After using the NuWave Bravo XL for over a year, I’ve had both amazing results and a few bumps along the way. Like any high-tech kitchen tool, it’s not perfect. Still, most of the problems I faced had easy fixes once I understood the appliance better. Here’s an honest look at my experience — the issues I ran into, how I solved them, and what I learned.
Learning Curve: Too Many Presets at First
At first, the 112 one-touch presets were overwhelming. I didn’t know which one to use or how to adjust time and temperature properly. It felt like I was learning to drive a car with too many buttons.
Problem: I accidentally overcooked a few meals early on because I chose the wrong preset or forgot to press the “start” button again after preheating.
Solution: I took time to learn the basic modes — air fry, bake, roast, and grill — before exploring others. Reading the quick-start guide helped, and now I only use 5–10 presets regularly. Once I got the hang of it, cooking became smooth and fun.
Rack Design: Tray Tilts When Pulled Out
The first time I pulled the rack halfway out, it dipped forward slightly. My heart skipped a beat as I almost spilled hot food. It’s a common issue with the Bravo XL’s rack design.
Problem: The rack slides forward when the door is opened because of its automatic pull-out feature. It’s helpful, but it can tilt if you’re not careful.
Solution: I now keep one hand on the tray when opening the door. Some users trim the hooks that catch the rack, but I didn’t need to. With gentle handling, it’s manageable and safe.
Exterior Heat: Gets Hot During Long Cooks
When I roast or bake for longer periods, the stainless steel exterior gets quite hot. It’s especially noticeable when the oven runs above 400°F.
Problem: The top and sides of the oven heat up fast, and touching them accidentally can be uncomfortable.
Solution: I keep the Bravo XL about 4 inches away from the wall to let air circulate. I also avoid placing anything on top of it. Using silicone oven mats nearby helps protect my counter from heat.
Preheating Time: Slightly Longer Than Expected
Compared to smaller air fryers, this one takes a bit more time to preheat. The 30QT XL large capacity means it needs more time to reach higher temperatures.
Problem: I once tried cooking without preheating properly and ended up with uneven results — half-crisp, half-soft fries.
Solution: I now allow full preheat before placing food inside. The result is much better — crisp on the outside, tender inside. Starting preheat while prepping food saves time.
Control Panel: Sensitive but Responsive
The digital control panel is touch-based and modern, but I noticed it’s quite sensitive. Sometimes, a light tap changes a setting I didn’t mean to adjust.
Problem: While cleaning or setting modes quickly, I occasionally changed the temperature by accident.
Solution: I started using the control knob more often instead of tapping the screen. It gives better control and prevents accidental changes. A quick wipe with a soft cloth after cooking keeps it responsive and clean.
Cooking Odor: Noticeable on First Use
The first time I used the NuWave Bravo XL, there was a light chemical smell. It came from the heating elements and coatings burning off during the first few runs.
Problem: The odor was a bit strong for the first 10 minutes of my first cook.
Solution: I ran the oven empty for about 15 minutes at 400°F to burn off factory residues. After that, the smell disappeared completely. Every use since has been odor-free.
Cleaning Corners: A Bit Tricky
The stainless steel interior looks sleek, but cleaning tight corners near the heating element can be challenging.
Problem: Grease and crumbs tend to collect at the back corners and under the heating plate.
Solution: I use a small brush or a damp cloth to reach narrow spots. The removable drip tray also makes cleaning easier. Wiping it after every use keeps the oven spotless.
Noise Level: Noticeable Fan Sound
The convection fan is powerful, which means it’s not silent. During roasting, it produces a soft hum that’s noticeable in quiet rooms.
Problem: The fan noise caught my attention when cooking late at night.
Solution: It’s not loud enough to be disruptive, but I learned to embrace it — a sign of steady airflow and even cooking. It’s the sound of progress, not a flaw.
Alternative Option: Ninja Foodi Oven
As a knife expert with 22 years of experience, I’ve used many kitchen tools. The Ninja Foodi Oven is one of the best. It’s quick and versatile. You can air fry, bake, and roast with ease. If you want an oven that works fast, this is a great choice.
Ninja Foodi Oven vs. Nuwave Bravo XL
The Ninja Foodi Oven cooks food faster with True Surround Convection. The Nuwave Bravo XL is better for precise cooking with Linear Thermal Technology. Both are good, but the Ninja is faster, while the Nuwave is better for control.
| Feature | Ninja Foodi Oven | Nuwave Bravo XL |
| Capacity | Fits a 5-lb chicken, 2 pizzas | 30QT, fits multiple dishes |
| Cooking Functions | 10-in-1: Air Fry, Bake, Roast, Broil, etc. | 12-in-1: Air Fry, Bake, Grill, Roast, etc. |
| Technology | True Surround Convection, fast preheat | Linear Thermal Technology, precise control |
| Speed | 30% faster than a traditional oven | Cooks 3x faster with even heat |
| Ease of Cleaning | Easy to clean, but some report difficulty | Removable trays, but fan area tricky |
| Noise Level | Noticeable air fryer noise | Quieter operation in most settings |
| Price | Around $379.99 | Around $399.99 |
Summary:
The Ninja Foodi Oven is great for quick cooking and is more compact. The Nuwave Bravo XL gives better control over cooking and has more functions.
My Final Thoughts on Nuwave Bravo XL 20801
If you value precise cooking and versatility, the Nuwave Bravo XL 20801 is a great choice. It’s perfect for those who want a device that can bake, roast, and air fry with accuracy. However, if you need something quick or compact, you might want to explore other options. Based on my experience, this oven is best for those who enjoy cooking with care and want perfect results, but it’s not the fastest for quick meals.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Nuwave Bravo XL 20801
What makes the Nuwave Bravo XL 20801 stand out?
The Nuwave Bravo XL 20801 stands out for its precision and versatility. It offers 12 cooking functions and Linear Thermal Technology for accurate results.
Can the Nuwave Bravo XL 20801 cook a whole chicken?
Yes, the Nuwave Bravo XL 20801 can cook a whole 5-lb chicken easily. Its large 30QT capacity and convection heat ensure even cooking.
How easy is the Nuwave Bravo XL 20801 to clean?
The Nuwave Bravo XL 20801 is easy to clean. It comes with removable trays, but the fan area may require extra care to keep clean.
Is the Nuwave Bravo XL 20801 a good option for quick meals?
While the Nuwave Bravo XL 20801 cooks efficiently, it’s best for those who enjoy precise cooking. It’s not the fastest choice for quick meals compared to other appliances.
Does the Nuwave Bravo XL 20801 work for baking?
Yes, the Nuwave Bravo XL 20801 is great for baking. It has a precise temperature control and even heat distribution, making it perfect for baked goods.
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Hi, I’m Rob Newaz Khan. I share practical, experience-based guidance on kitchen appliances such as air fryers and coffee makers. My content is built around real home use, common user questions, and manufacturer best practices, with the goal of helping readers use their appliances safely, fix everyday issues, and make better decisions in the kitchen.
