It’s kitchen gadget season, where websites and retailers are packed with re-imagined high-tech appliances that promise to make your holiday family get-togethers better than ever.  But are these tricked-out appliances really worth it? We talked to experts and homeowners to find out.

Warming Drawer - $1,500 and up

What it is: Warming drawers are like the heat lamps professional kitchens use to place food under before it’s served, but better. They can take the chill off your china, or keep your food deliciously warm until you’re ready to dig in.
Takeaway:  It’s awkward to serve from.  It takes up drawer space, leaving less room for items like towels, place mats, etc.  It’s really only useful at the holidays.  Unless you regularly cook for a crowd, steer clear.

Steam Oven - $2,500 and up

What it is: Steam ovens cook with steam to help food retain moisture and vitamins (and in larger quantities than you can do in a stovetop steamer). Plus, the newest models can use gas or steam, so there’s no wasted space.  Steam ovens also make the previously time-consuming task of tenderizing meat easier, breaking it down before searing.
Takeaway :  If you’re a health nut perhaps, but be warned that in many kitchens, particularly in apartments, there aren’t many options for water and electricity connections, so make sure your kitchen is compatible with this appliance first.

Specialty Refrigerator - $3,800 and up

What it is: Some have built-in, programmable coffee makers (which also brew tea and hot chocolate) right in the door. Others have cameras inside that are linked to your smartphone, so you can check if you need milk or eggs while you’re shopping.
Takeaway:  It depends on how much work you need your fridge to do.  A built-in espresso maker might appeal to coffee lovers, but it may actually be a deterrent for future home buyers who don’t drink coffee.  When in doubt, choose features with broader appeal.

Double-Drawer Dishwasher - $900 and up

What it is: Instead of a larger, traditional dishwasher with a door that requires ample space to open, these stacked drawers allow for items to be separated and smaller loads to be done on different settings. 
Takeaway:  These tend to be a better bet for smaller families, especially since large pots or tall cutting boards don’t easily fit.  If both are full every night, that kind of defeats the purpose of having two.


This content was from Realtor.com.