The Oliso SmartHub + SmartTop is the quintessential multi-purpose kitchen tool. An induction cooktop – the SmartHub – provides the heating element. When paired with the SmartTop, the unit transforms into the perfect sous vide water bath. Unlike other water bath models, though, the Oliso unit can function as a slow cooker, bain marie, oven, and more. Induction technology is a critical part of this energy-efficient design, eliminating heat loss that can take place using a traditional electric or gas stove.
Specs at a Glance
- Can be used with other cookware or Oliso accessories
- Up to 1500 Watts for fast heating
- Perforated bottom promotes heat convection
- Compact design
- Adjustable rack
The SmartHub brings a lot to the table as a sous vide cooker. A powerful induction base heats water quickly to the desired temperature, and precision temperature control keeps the water steady within 0.1 degree Celsius.
A perforated grate not only keeps food floating off the bottom of the unit, which could lead to uneven cooking, but also helps simulate circulation by improving the heat convection. The 11-quart capacity also provides flexibility for the amount of cooking that can be done at once.
What makes the SmartHub stand apart from other sous vide water bath options is the ability to save the vacuum sealed bags for another meal and use the reservoir for making yogurt, sprouting grains, or baking a chicken. By removing the SmartTop, home chefs can add any compatible cookware to the SmartHub for other types of cooking, even searing that perfectly cooked steak from the water bath. Oliso has promised other tops are in production that can be used with the SmartHub to expand the cooking options even further.
The SmartHub is capable of delivering up to 1500W for extremely fast heating but can also maintain temperatures with as few as 2W, making it very energy-efficient. Induction heats the top directly, eliminating the inefficiencies associated with transmitting heat from electrical and gas stove tops to the pan. The benefit of reduced energy consumption, however, is offset at least initially by the price for this endless functionality.
Although the countertop footprint is small at roughly one square foot, the SmartHub plus SmartTop weighs in at over 24 pounds, which limits portability (though the two pieces can be separated to make it more manageable). The numerous appliances that can be replaced with the combination, though, may mean more counter-space real estate for it to consume.
Oliso offers an optional vacuum sealer that really puts everything you need for the perfect sous vide experience right where you need it.
Pros:
- Uses induction cooking so you can cook in 1/2 the time
- Digital LCD touch control panel
- Has countdown timer, which lets you cook up to 100 hours
- Very fast heating – boasts 1500 watts of power
- Energy efficient and quiet operation
- Holds 10.4 liters (2.7 gallons) of water
- Comes with 1 year manufacturer limited warranty
Cons:
- Not ideal for cooking small portions of food