Overview
Smeg COF01CRUS is the cream US version of Smeg's countertop combi steam oven, which includes an air-frying function. It is not a conventional pull-out-basket air fryer. That distinction matters when comparing prices: you are shopping for a multifunction countertop oven with steam, convection cooking, and an air-fry setting, rather than a compact appliance dedicated primarily to crisping frozen food.
Its approximately 30-liter cavity accommodates tray-based cooking, while the curved enclosure and coordinated controls follow Smeg's familiar retro styling. The principal attraction is combining several cooking methods in an appliance that can remain on display. Air frying uses circulating hot air; steam adds a separate capability useful for foods where retaining moisture matters. Neither the premium positioning nor the presence of an air-fry mode establishes that it crisps better than less expensive alternatives, so independent cooking tests should carry more weight than appearance or function counts.
Who it's for
This model makes the most sense for buyers who want a coordinated Smeg kitchen and expect to use the steam and conventional oven functions regularly. It may also suit someone seeking a secondary oven for smaller meals without installing another built-in appliance. Compare usable tray dimensions with your usual portions: nominal cavity volume alone does not reveal how many pieces of food will fit in a single, well-spaced layer.
If your main goal is quick fries, chicken wings, or reheated leftovers, a basket air fryer is worth considering before spending this much. General air-fryer coverage from Wirecutter and Tom's Guide highlights the importance of cooking performance, convenience, and cleanup rather than simply buying the most versatile appliance. Those category-level observations are useful here, but they should not be mistaken for verified test results for this particular Smeg model. Buyers prioritizing steam cooking should also compare dedicated countertop steam ovens.
Things to know before buying
Check the complete model suffix and retailer description. COF01CRUS identifies the cream US version; other colors and overseas versions can appear in the same search results. Confirm that the listing is for the complete oven, not an air-fry tray, replacement accessory, or imported appliance. Compare delivered prices, included accessories, return policies, and US warranty eligibility rather than treating every listing as equivalent.
Allow room for the door to open and follow the manufacturer's installation-clearance instructions. Steam cooking also brings water-tank filling, cavity drying, and periodic maintenance beyond ordinary crumb removal. Check which accessories can go in the dishwasher instead of assuming all trays can. Finally, look for model-specific evidence about browning consistency, cooking speed, and cleaning effort before buying primarily for air frying. A multifunction oven can offer broader utility without necessarily matching a smaller basket appliance for every quick snack.