Welcome, fellow food lovers! As someone who lives and breathes kitchen innovation, I understand the constant quest for appliances that simplify our culinary journey without compromising on results. We all dream of a single gadget that can handle multiple cooking tasks, freeing up precious counter space and making meal prep a joy rather than a chore.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind KitchPrep. With over 15 years immersed in the world of kitchen equipment, I’ve meticulously analyzed thousands of appliance specifications, delved into extensive industry reports, and sifted through countless real-world user experiences to bring you truly informed recommendations.
The modern kitchen demands efficiency and versatility, and that’s precisely where these multi-functional powerhouses shine, offering more than just simple reheating. Finding the perfect appliance to simplify your kitchen tasks and deliver delicious, versatile meals is easier than ever with our comprehensive guide to the best combo microwave on the market.
How To Choose The Best Combo Microwave
Selecting the right combo microwave involves more than just picking the prettiest model. As a seasoned culinary equipment expert, I look for a harmonious blend of power, versatility, capacity, and user-friendliness. Consider these crucial aspects to ensure your investment truly enhances your kitchen.
Versatility & Cooking Modes
A true combo microwave should offer a range of cooking functions beyond basic microwaving. Look for convection baking and roasting for oven-like results, air frying for crispy textures with less oil, and even grilling or steaming capabilities. The more functions it integrates seamlessly, the more counter space you save and the more culinary possibilities you unlock.
Power & Performance
Wattage is key for both microwave and other heating elements. For microwaving, 900-1200 watts ensures efficient and even heating. For convection or air frying, higher wattage (1400W+) often translates to faster preheating and better cooking performance. Inverter technology is a significant plus, providing continuous, even power for delicate tasks like softening butter or defrosting without hot spots.
Capacity & Footprint
Consider your household size and typical dishware. Capacities usually range from 0.9 to 1.6 cubic feet. While a larger interior is desirable for family-sized meals or a 12-inch pizza, ensure the external dimensions fit comfortably on your countertop or within your designated space. A compact footprint with a surprisingly spacious interior is often a sign of smart design.
Quick Comparison
On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.
| Model | Type | Best For | Key Feature | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 | Countertop | Best Overall | Element IQ & Soft Close Door | AmazonCheck Price |
| TOSHIBA OptiChef Air Fryer Combo | Countertop | Smart Kitchens | 2.4-inch Color Screen & Alexa | AmazonCheck Price |
| SAMSUNG Convection Microwave with Air Fry | Countertop | Power & Tech | Power Convection & SmartThings | AmazonCheck Price |
| Midea Multifunctional Microwave Steam Oven | Countertop | Healthy Steaming | XpressSteam & Graphene Air Fry | AmazonCheck Price |
| GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven | Countertop | Compact Living | Quiet Performance & Crisper Pan | AmazonCheck Price |
| Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 | Countertop | Family Meals | 1.5 Cu Ft & Position Memory Turntable | AmazonCheck Price |
| FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave | Countertop | Everyday Versatility | Bake, Roast, Microwave, Convection | AmazonCheck Price |
| BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven | Countertop | Quick Air Frying | 11 Air Fry Presets | AmazonCheck Price |
| Chefman MicroCrisp Countertop Digital Microwave | Countertop | Crispy Reheats | Unique “Cook & Crisp” Power Combo | AmazonCheck Price |
| Magic Chef 1.0 cu. ft. Countertop Microwave | Countertop | Simple Reliability | 1000 Watt Multi-Use | AmazonCheck Price |
| Commercial Chef 5-in-1 Countertop Microwave | Countertop | Budget Versatility | Stainless Steel Interior | AmazonCheck Price |
| Galanz 4-in-1 ToastWave | Countertop | Toast & Fry | TotalFry 360 & Inverter Technology | AmazonCheck Price |
| Emerson Microwave with Built-In Grill Function | Countertop | Basic Grilling | Microwave & Grill in One | AmazonCheck Price |
| Sharp Over-the-Range Convection Microwave | Built-In | Over-the-Range | Built-in Exhaust System | AmazonCheck Price |
| Gasland Built in microwave oven | Built-In | Integrated Kitchens | 3D Convection Heating & Soft-Close Door | AmazonCheck Price |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave, Air Fryer and Convection Oven
Check Latest PriceThe Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 truly stands out as a culinary workhorse, combining a microwave, air fryer, and convection oven into one sleek appliance. Its Element IQ system intelligently directs power, ensuring tailored cooking environments for crispy air-fried delights and perfectly baked goods. This unit is designed for those who appreciate precision and quiet operation, featuring a soft-close door that’s 80% quieter than standard models.
Home cooks consistently praise its ability to perform all three functions with impressive results. Many have noted how effectively it air fries, delivering crunchy textures without excessive oil, and how its convection oven feature produces beautifully browned dishes. The intuitive dial and shortcut buttons on the inside door, offering presets for tasks like melting chocolate or softening butter, make it incredibly user-friendly, even for complex recipes.
For culinary enthusiasts and busy families seeking a high-quality, versatile appliance that saves counter space and performs consistently across a range of cooking methods, the Breville Combi Wave is an exceptional choice. Its thoughtful design, quiet operation, and reliable performance make it a deserving top pick for any modern kitchen.
Why it’s great
- Element IQ system for tailored cooking
- Quiet soft-close door and operation
- Fast Combi & Cook From Frozen functions
- Intuitive controls with smart presets
Good to know
- Higher price point than basic models
- Some find the end beep loud, even on low setting
2. TOSHIBA OptiChef Air Fryer Combo Countertop Microwave Oven
Check Latest PriceThe Toshiba OptiChef is a forward-thinking combo microwave designed for the smart kitchen, featuring a vibrant 2.4-inch color screen and compatibility with Alexa voice control. Its ChefFry Plus technology mimics an air fryer oven, while the Origin Inverter ensures precise, even cooking and defrosting, preserving texture and flavor. This unit boasts AI-Chef smart cooking capabilities, offering cloud recipe updates and OTA firmware upgrades for an evolving culinary experience.
Owners appreciate the modern interface and the convenience of smart connectivity, making it easy to operate remotely or via voice commands. Many have highlighted the effectiveness of the air fryer function for small snacks, and the inverter technology’s ability to defrost foods more evenly than traditional microwaves. The spacious 1.3 cubic foot capacity comfortably accommodates larger dishes like a 13-inch pizza or a whole chicken, making it versatile for various meal sizes.
This Toshiba model is ideal for tech-savvy individuals or anyone looking to streamline their cooking process with advanced features and smart home integration. While some initial setup for connectivity might require patience, the long-term benefits of its intelligent cooking and versatile functions make it a compelling choice for a modern kitchen.
Why it’s great
- Advanced 2.4-inch color screen UI
- ChefFry Plus for healthy air frying
- Origin Inverter for even cooking and defrosting
- Smart connectivity with Alexa and TSmartLife App
Good to know
- Can be challenging to connect to Wi-Fi initially
- Internal height obstructed by broiler element for very tall items
3. SAMSUNG 1.2 cu. ft. Countertop Convection Microwave with Air Fry
Check Latest PriceSamsung’s 1.2 cu. ft. Countertop Convection Microwave is a powerhouse designed for those who demand speed and smart integration in their kitchen. Featuring Power Convection technology, it cooks up to 30% faster by thoroughly distributing hot air. The dedicated Air Fry function promises healthier fried foods, while the PowerGrill Duo ensures browning and crisping without drying out the interior. With SmartThings Food and Wi-Fi connectivity, it offers recipe recommendations and voice control via Bixby, Alexa, or Google Assistant.
Users appreciate the large 15-inch turntable, which is ideal for big pizzas or family-sized dishes, and its relatively compact external footprint for its internal capacity. Many have found the Power Convection and grill functions to be particularly effective for achieving oven-like results. The smart app integration, providing notifications on your phone or even Samsung TV when cooking is complete, adds a layer of modern convenience that busy individuals truly value.
This Samsung model is an excellent choice for tech-forward households or anyone seeking a high-wattage appliance capable of rapid and versatile cooking. While some have noted a preference for more temperature control in air fry mode, its overall performance, smart features, and robust build quality make it a standout option for a connected and efficient kitchen.
Why it’s great
- Power Convection forfaster cooking
- Dedicated Air Fry and PowerGrill Duo
- SmartThings Food with recipe recommendations
- Wi-Fi and Voice Control (Bixby, Alexa, Google Assistant)
Good to know
- Limited temperature selection for air fry presets
- Some users miss a permanent clock display
4. Midea 4-in-1 Multifunctional Microwave Steam Oven
Check Latest PriceThe Midea 4-in-1 Multifunctional Microwave Steam Oven is a truly unique appliance, integrating XpressSteam, XpressFry, and XpressWave functions, along with baking and fermenting. It boasts 32 auto functions and 8 additional modes, essentially creating a mini-kitchen in one compact unit. The True 3D Graphene Technology in its air fryer ensures ultra-high thermal conductivity for crispier and juicier results, while dual steam tubes deliver high-temperature steam in just 30 seconds to lock in nutrients.
Owners are particularly impressed with its versatile capabilities, from fermenting sourdough to steam-assisted grilling that helps remove excess oil. Many have highlighted the effectiveness of the steam function for vegetables and the microwave’s inverter technology for even heating. The color screen touch control and IoT remote control via the SmartHome app add modern convenience, allowing for precise temperature and power adjustments.
This Midea oven is perfect for health-conscious cooks, RV owners, or anyone with limited kitchen space who desires a wide array of cooking methods, especially steaming and advanced air frying. While guests might inadvertently use the microwave with racks installed, its comprehensive features and ability to perform multiple tasks efficiently make it a valuable addition to any kitchen seeking ultimate versatility and healthier cooking options.
Why it’s great
- 4-in-1 functionality: steam, air fry, microwave, oven
- True 3D Graphene Air Fryer for superior crisping
- Quick Steaming with dual tubes
- IoT remote control and 32 auto functions
Good to know
- Top element insufficient for strong broiling/toasting
- Steam vents from top back, tricky for built-in installation
5. GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Check Latest PriceThe GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact powerhouse, combining microwave, air fry, convection bake, and broil functions. Designed with shared spaces in mind, it operates quietly, making it ideal for dorm rooms, offices, or small apartments. Its 1.0 cubic foot interior feels surprisingly spacious, accommodating dinner plates and personal pizzas without overwhelming your counter. With 1050 watts of power, it delivers fast, even cooking and reheating.
Many users appreciate its multi-functionality, effectively replacing several appliances. Busy students and office workers find the built-in air fryer perfect for crisping fries and nuggets without preheating, while convection and broil modes handle personal pizzas and leftovers efficiently. The easy-to-clean stainless steel interior and included crisper pan are frequently highlighted as practical benefits, simplifying both cooking and cleanup.
This GE model is an excellent choice for anyone needing a versatile, space-saving appliance that performs well across various cooking tasks, especially in environments where quiet operation is valued. While some wish for backlit buttons or more detailed instructions, its overall performance and compact design make it a reliable companion for quick meals and smaller bakes.
Why it’s great
- 4-in-1: microwave, air fry, convection, broil
- Compact footprint with large interior feel
- Quiet operation for shared spaces
- Easy-to-clean stainless steel interior
Good to know
- Buttons are not backlit, can be hard to read in low light
- Some units have reported issues with oven temperature accuracy
6. Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Check Latest PriceThe Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 is a versatile countertop microwave oven designed to handle a variety of cooking needs for families. It combines microwave, air fry, convection, and combination cooking functions, all powered by a 1000W microwave. The healthy air fryer combo allows for guilt-free fried foods, while the convection mode excels at baking and roasting. Its generous 1.5 cubic foot capacity and 13.6-inch position memory turntable can easily accommodate a whole roasted chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
Many home cooks appreciate the quiet operation and the ability to mute the buzzer, making it less disruptive in busy households. The stainless steel interior is easy to clean, and features like one-touch popcorn, memory function, and multistage cooking add to its convenience. Users often highlight its effectiveness as a convection oven, producing excellent results for baked items, and its ability to defrost food without cooking the edges.
This Toshiba model is an excellent choice for families or individuals who frequently cook larger meals and desire a multi-functional appliance with ample capacity. While the controls might require a slight learning curve, its robust performance across various cooking modes and convenient features make it a valuable asset for any kitchen looking to streamline meal preparation.
Why it’s great
- 4-in-1: microwave, air fry, convection, combi-cooking
- Large 1.5 Cu. Ft. capacity with 13.6″ turntable
- Healthy air fryer combo for less fat
- Mute function for quiet operation
Good to know
- Instruction manual could be more detailed for all functions
- Racks provided may not extend to the full turntable diameter
7. FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave, Digital Air Fryer, Convection Oven
Check Latest PriceThe FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave is a multi-functional appliance that brings bake, roast, microwave, and convection oven capabilities to your countertop, along with a digital air fryer. With 10 power levels and 5 one-touch cook menus, it aims to simplify daily meal preparation. The air fryer function promises up to 70% less fat than traditional frying, making it a healthier option for your favorite crispy foods.
Many busy parents and meal preppers appreciate the convenience of having a 3-in-1 product that frees up counter space. Reviewers often highlight its beautiful stainless steel finish and effective microwave performance. While some acknowledge that the air fryer function might take longer than a dedicated unit, it still offers a decent alternative for achieving crispy results on various foods.
This Frigidaire model is a solid choice for households seeking a versatile, space-saving appliance for everyday cooking. Its combination of microwave, convection oven, and air fryer functions makes it suitable for a wide range of dishes, from reheating leftovers to baking and roasting. If you’re looking for a reliable and aesthetically pleasing unit that covers multiple cooking bases, this is a strong contender.
Why it’s great
- Multi-function: Bake, Roast, Microwave, Convection, Air Fry
- 5 one-touch cook menus for convenience
- Air fryer for healthier frying
- Sleek stainless steel design
Good to know
- Air fryer function may take longer to cook
- Some reports of units arriving damaged
8. BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry
Check Latest PriceThe BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven is a versatile countertop appliance that brings microwave, air fry, combi (grill/convection), bake, and roast functions to your kitchen. With 900 watts of output and 10 cooking levels, it’s equipped to handle a variety of culinary tasks. A standout feature is its 11 preset air fry menus, making it incredibly easy to prepare favorites like French fries, chicken nuggets, and fish sticks with minimal effort.
Home chefs appreciate its compact size, which fits well on countertops without being overly bulky, and its straightforward controls. Many have found the microwave heats food evenly and quickly, and the air fryer, while not as powerful as a standalone unit, performs decently for smaller portions. The child-lock setting is a valued safety feature for families, and the easy instructions to disable it are a plus for those who don’t need it.
This BLACK+DECKER model is an excellent choice for individuals or small families seeking a multi-functional appliance with a strong emphasis on convenient air frying. Its wide array of air fry presets simplifies healthy cooking, and its reliable performance across all functions makes it a practical and dependable addition to any kitchen.
Why it’s great
- 5-in-1 functionality including Air Fry, Bake, Roast
- 11 convenient air fry presets
- Compact size for counter space efficiency
- Easy-to-use controls and child-lock feature
Good to know
- Air fryer may not perform as well as dedicated units
- Exterior can get hot when using bake/air fry functions
9. Chefman MicroCrisp Countertop Digital Microwave Oven
Check Latest PriceThe Chefman MicroCrisp Countertop Digital Microwave Oven is a game-changer for anyone tired of soggy microwave food. Its unique “Cook & Crisp” power combo delivers dual cooking options, combining a 1000W microwave with an 1800W crisper at 400°F. This means you can reheat leftovers with a crispy crunch, achieve crackly skin on chicken, and get perfectly crunchy pizza crusts, all from one appliance.
Culinary enthusiasts are consistently impressed with its ability to transform traditionally soft microwave dishes into crispy delights. The user-guided touch control panel and 6 precision presets simplify cooking, defrosting, and reheating, eliminating guesswork. Many busy individuals also appreciate the alarm mute option, allowing for quiet operation without disturbing others in the house.
This Chefman model is ideal for anyone who values food texture and wants to elevate their microwave cooking beyond simple heating. If you’re looking for a microwave that acts like an air fryer combo, delivering hot and crispy results, and fits seamlessly into a smaller kitchen space, the MicroCrisp is a fantastic and reliable choice.
Why it’s great
- Unique “Cook & Crisp” power combo for crispy results
- 1800W crisper at 400°F
- User-friendly touch control panel with 6 presets
- Alarm mute option for quiet operation
Good to know
- Child safety door lock can be inconvenient for single users
- Power cord may be shorter than expected
10. Magic Chef 1.0 cu. ft. Countertop Microwave in Stainless and Black with Air Fryer
Check Latest PriceThe Magic Chef 1.0 cu. ft. Countertop Microwave is a multi-use oven functioning as an air fryer, convection oven, grill, and microwave. With 1000 watts of power and 10 power levels, it offers versatile cooking options for everyday meals. It includes air-fry presets for common foods like french fries and chicken nuggets, along with auto-touch settings for pizza, potatoes, and vegetables, all controlled by easy-to-use electronic controls and a digital display.
Many busy individuals and small families appreciate its ability to heat food quickly and evenly, often outperforming other units in its class. The spacious interior and large rotating tray provide ample cooking space, and the easy-to-clean design is a recurring positive comment. While some users find the child lock annoying, it’s easily disabled, making it a flexible option for different household needs.
This Magic Chef model is a reliable and straightforward choice for those seeking a powerful and versatile combo microwave without unnecessary complexities. Its strong heating performance, ample capacity, and array of cooking modes make it a dependable appliance for daily use, whether you’re air frying snacks or reheating family dinners.
Why it’s great
- 1000 Watt multi-use: air fryer, convection, grill, microwave
- Fast, even, and consistent heating performance
- Easy-to-use electronic controls with digital display
- Includes air frying rack, crisper tray, and grill rack
Good to know
- Buttons could have clearer markings
- Some units reportedly arrive with minor dents
11. Commercial Chef 5-in-1 Countertop Microwave Air Fryer Combo
Check Latest PriceThe Commercial Chef 5-in-1 Countertop Microwave Air Fryer Combo offers impressive versatility for its price point, functioning as an air fryer, convection oven, microwave with bake and roast capabilities. With a compact 0.9 cubic foot capacity and 900 watts of power, it’s designed to fit smaller kitchens while providing a wide range of cooking options. The digital touch panel with LED display and 10 power levels ensures ease of use and precise control.
Many users appreciate how this unit effectively replaces multiple appliances, saving valuable counter space. The stainless steel interior is a frequently praised feature for its durability and ease of cleaning. While some have noted the interior is smaller than expected for a 0.9 cu. ft. unit, its preset cooking options for popcorn, potato, and frozen dinner make quick meals a breeze.
This Commercial Chef model is an excellent budget-friendly choice for individuals or small households seeking a multi-functional appliance that covers essential cooking needs. If you’re looking for a compact microwave air fryer combo that delivers on versatility without breaking the bank, this unit offers a compelling blend of features and value.
Why it’s great
- 5-in-1: air fryer, convection, microwave, bake, roast
- Stainless steel interior for durability and easy cleaning
- Digital touch panel with LED display
- Includes air fry kit and baking pan
Good to know
- Interior capacity can feel smaller than stated
- Beeping sounds can be frequent and annoying for some users
12. Galanz 4-in-1 ToastWave with TotalFry 360
Check Latest PriceThe Galanz 4-in-1 ToastWave is a versatile countertop appliance that brings together a microwave, air fryer, convection oven, and toaster. With 900 watts of cooking power and 11 variable power levels, it offers ultimate flexibility for everyday meals and gourmet creations. Its True Convection system circulates heated air for faster, more even cooking, while the TotalFry 360 technology allows for healthier, crunchy fried favorites with little to no oil.
Home cooks appreciate the ability to toast bagels and make crispy fries, often noting the effectiveness of the air fry kit for better air circulation. The patented Inverter Technology ensures continuous, even heat, preventing hot spots and drying out food during microwaving. The non-stick turntable is also a convenient feature for easy cleanup after cooking.
This Galanz ToastWave is a good option for individuals or small families who frequently use a toaster alongside their microwave and want to consolidate appliances. While some users have reported issues with the accessories or microwave power, its overall versatility and unique combination of functions make it a compelling choice for those seeking a multi-functional kitchen hub.
Why it’s great
- 4-in-1: microwave, air fry, convection, toast
- TotalFry 360 technology for healthier frying
- True Convection for even cooking
- Patented Inverter Technology for consistent heat
Good to know
- Accessories like the rubber ring on the air fryer tray can expand
- Some reports of microwave having low power
13. Emerson Microwave with Built-In Grill Function
Check Latest PriceThe Emerson MWG1191SB Microwave with Built-In Grill Function offers versatile cooking in a compact countertop design. With 1100W microwave power and 11 adjustable power levels, it handles everything from gentle reheating to full meal preparation. The integrated grill function is perfect for crisping pizzas, browning casseroles, or achieving a grilled finish on meats and sandwiches, adding a new dimension to your microwave cooking.
Home cooks frequently praise its sleek stainless steel design, which adds a modern touch to any kitchen, and its ease of cleaning. Many users appreciate the quiet operation and efficient defrosting capabilities. While some find the child lock feature inconvenient if not needed, the overall consensus is that it’s a strong, quiet, and effective microwave that delivers on its promise of dual functionality.
This Emerson model is an excellent choice for individuals or small families seeking a reliable microwave with the added benefit of a grill function for browning and crisping. If you’re looking for a straightforward, powerful appliance that offers more than just basic microwaving without a steep price tag, this unit provides great value and performance for everyday culinary tasks.
Why it’s great
- Microwave & Grill in one appliance
- Powerful 1100W microwave performance
- Sleek stainless steel design
- User-friendly controls with 9 preset options
Good to know
- Child lock feature cannot be permanently removed
- Can cook hotter than expected, requiring cooking time adjustments
14. Sharp R1874T Over-the-Range Convection Microwave Oven
Check Latest PriceThe Sharp R1874T is an over-the-range convection microwave oven designed for seamless integration into your kitchen while offering diverse cooking capabilities. With 850 watts of power, it browns, bakes, broils, crisps, and roasts, making it a true multi-functional asset. Its 1.1 cubic foot stainless steel interior and 13-inch turntable ensure even heating, while the built-in exhaust system with a powerful fan and hood light adds essential kitchen utility.
Many RV owners and homeowners replacing older units praise its perfect fit and easy installation, often noting it’s a direct replacement for previous models. Users consistently highlight the convenience of being able to turn off the turntable in convection mode, allowing for the use of rectangular sheet pans—a feature not found in many other convection microwaves. The interactive display and Smart and Easy sensor settings simplify operation for various dishes.
This Sharp model is an excellent choice for those seeking an integrated, space-saving solution that combines microwave and convection oven functions with a robust ventilation system. If you’re looking to expand your cooking and baking options without sacrificing valuable counter space, this over-the-range unit offers reliable performance and thoughtful features for a busy kitchen.
Why it’s great
- Over-the-range installation saves counter space
- Convection baking, broiling, crisping, roasting
- Built-in exhaust system with powerful fan and hood light
- Option to turn off turntable for rectangular pans
Good to know
- 850W microwave power is lower than some countertop models
- Some reports of shipping damage, requiring careful inspection upon arrival
15. Gasland 24 Inch Built in microwave oven
Check Latest PriceThe Gasland 24 Inch Built-in Microwave Oven offers a seamless, integrated look for modern kitchens, combining microwave and convection oven capabilities. With 1000W power and 11 levels, it supports heating and broiling, allowing you to easily prepare steaks, roasts, pizza, and frozen entrees. Its 3D Convection Heating system ensures even heat distribution, eliminating cold spots and potentially reducing cooking time, while the Cool Door Technology keeps the exterior safe to touch.
Homeowners often highlight its elegant stainless steel appearance and how well it integrates with other appliances. The ability to adjust the volume of beeps and alerts is a frequently praised feature, making it ideal for early risers or night owls who don’t want to disturb others. The spacious 1.6 cubic foot interior and soft-close door add to the user experience, providing both convenience and a premium feel.
This Gasland built-in microwave is an excellent choice for those designing a new kitchen or upgrading existing appliances, prioritizing both aesthetics and multi-functional performance. If you’re looking for a powerful and quiet appliance that offers both microwave and convection cooking in a sleek, integrated package, this model delivers a sophisticated and efficient culinary experience.
Why it’s great
- Built-in design for a sleek kitchen aesthetic
- Microwave and Convection Oven combination
- 3D Convection Heating for even cooking
- Ultra quiet soft-close door and adjustable beep volume
Good to know
- Requires professional installation for built-in setup
- Some reports of units arriving with minor dents
Understanding the Specs
Wattage & Power Levels
The wattage indicates how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage (1000W-1200W+) generally means faster cooking and more even heating. Combo microwaves also list wattage for their convection, air fry, or grill functions, which are crucial for assessing their performance in those modes. More power levels offer greater control, allowing you to fine-tune cooking for delicate items or intense heating.
Capacity & Turntable Diameter
Capacity, measured in cubic feet (or liters), tells you how much food the microwave can hold. For combo units, consider if it’s large enough for your typical baking sheets, pizza sizes, or roasting pans. The turntable diameter is equally important, as a larger turntable (12-15 inches) accommodates bigger plates and ensures more consistent heating by rotating food through the microwave energy field.
FAQ
What is a combo microwave?
A combo microwave is a multi-functional kitchen appliance that combines the traditional microwave function with other cooking methods, such as convection baking, air frying, grilling, or steaming. This versatility allows it to perform tasks typically handled by separate appliances, saving counter space and offering more diverse cooking options.
Can I use metal in a combo microwave?
It depends on the cooking mode. Metal is generally safe and often required for convection, air fry, or grill modes in a combo microwave. However, metal cannot be used during microwave-only cooking, as it can cause arcing and damage the appliance. Always check your appliance’s manual and ensure you switch out any metal accessories before using the microwave function.
Do combo microwaves cook faster?
Yes, some combo microwaves can cook faster, especially those with “combi” modes that combine microwave energy with convection heat. This allows food to cook internally from the microwave while simultaneously browning and crisping externally from the convection or grill elements. Dedicated air fry or convection functions also often preheat and cook smaller dishes more quickly than a full-sized oven.
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most people, the best combo microwave winner is the Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave, Air Fryer and Convection Oven because of its superior all-around performance, intuitive controls, and quiet operation across all three cooking modes. If you want cutting-edge smart features and voice control, grab the TOSHIBA OptiChef Air Fryer Combo Countertop Microwave Oven. And for healthy steaming and an impressive array of multi-functional cooking capabilities, nothing beats the Midea 4-in-1 Multifunctional Microwave Steam Oven.
