Imagine a kitchen where you can bake a cake and reheat leftovers with just one appliance. Sounds amazing, right? That’s the magic of a microwave and oven combo! Many of us dream of a more efficient kitchen, but when it comes to picking the perfect combo, it can feel like a maze. You worry about size, features, and if it will actually make your cooking life easier.
Choosing the wrong one can lead to frustration and wasted money. Will it bake evenly? Is it easy to use? These are the questions that swirl around when you’re trying to make the best choice for your home. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you cut through the confusion.
In this post, we’ll explore what makes a great microwave and oven combo. We’ll break down the key features to look for, discuss different types, and give you tips to find the one that fits your cooking style and your kitchen. Get ready to discover how this one appliance can transform your cooking experience and make your kitchen work smarter, not harder.
Our Top 5 Microwave And Oven Combo Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave And Oven Combo Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.0/10
The TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven is a kitchen powerhouse that does more than just reheat leftovers. This sleek black stainless steel appliance can microwave, air fry, bake with convection, broil, and even has a special odor removal mode. It’s designed to make cooking easier and healthier, letting you enjoy crispy foods without all the oil. Plus, its smart features like a position memory turntable and child lock add both convenience and safety to your kitchen.
What We Like:
- Versatile cooking: It’s an 8-in-1 machine, so you can microwave, air fry, bake, broil, and more.
- Healthy eating: The air fryer function lets you enjoy fried foods with less fat.
- Spacious interior: The 1.0 cu.ft. capacity and 12.4-inch turntable fit a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- User-friendly: Features like one-touch popcorn, easy knobs, and a kitchen timer make cooking simple.
- Safety first: The two-step child lock prevents accidental use.
- Stylish look: The black stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- Learning curve: With so many functions, it might take a little time to learn how to use everything.
- Odor removal effectiveness: While it has an odor removal mode, its actual effectiveness might vary.
This Toshiba microwave oven is a fantastic addition for anyone looking to save space and expand their cooking options. It brings a blend of style, functionality, and health-conscious cooking to your countertop.
2. BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry
Rating: 9.3/10
Meet the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven, a true kitchen multitasker. This 0.9 cu. ft. countertop appliance in sleek stainless steel packs a punch with its 900 watts of power. It’s not just a microwave; it’s your go-to for air frying, grilling, baking, roasting, and convection cooking. This versatile oven simplifies your cooking routine and helps you whip up delicious meals with ease.
What We Like:
- Versatile 5-in-1 Functionality: It handles microwave, air fry, combi (grill/convection), bake, and roast. You can cook almost anything!
- Many Preset Options: With 7 auto menus for common foods like popcorn and pizza, and 11 air fry presets for everything from fries to chicken wings, meal prep is a breeze.
- Quick Start Feature: Just press the start button for 30-second bursts of full power. It makes reheating and quick cooking super fast.
- Safety First: The child-lock feature is a lifesaver for families. Simply press and hold the stop button for 3 seconds to lock the controls.
- Stylish Design: The stainless steel finish looks great on any countertop.
What Could Be Improved:
- Capacity: At 0.9 cu. ft., it might be a bit small for larger families or cooking big meals.
- Learning Curve: While user-friendly, mastering all five functions might take a little practice.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering a wide range of cooking options in one compact unit. It’s a smart choice for those seeking convenience and versatility.
3. TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo
Rating: 9.1/10
Meet your new kitchen superhero: the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo. This isn’t just a microwave; it’s a master of many trades, ready to whip up almost any meal you can imagine. It’s a microwave, an air fryer, a convection oven, a broiler, and even makes yogurt! Plus, it saves valuable counter space by doing the job of several appliances.
What We Like:
- Ultimate Versatility: It’s a microwave, air fryer, convection oven, broiler, defroster, toasts bread, and even makes yogurt. This one appliance does a lot!
- Smart Cooking: The humidity sensor adjusts cooking for perfect results every time. No more undercooked or overcooked food.
- Healthier Fried Foods: Enjoy crispy favorites like chicken nuggets and fries with less fat, thanks to the air fryer function and rapid heat circulation.
- Faster Meals: The Combi-Modes combine microwave, convection, and grill power to cook food faster and make it extra crispy outside and tender inside.
- Easy Cooking: With 27 auto menus and a cookbook of 47 recipes, even beginners can cook delicious meals.
- Even Cooking: Inverter technology ensures your food cooks evenly without cold spots.
- Quiet Operation: The mute function lets you cook without the usual loud beeps.
What Could Be Improved:
- Size: While it’s a space-saver for multiple appliances, its external dimensions might still be a consideration for very small kitchens.
- Learning Curve: With so many functions, it might take a little time to learn all the different settings and best uses for each mode.
This TOSHIBA combo oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and a wide range of cooking options. It truly makes meal preparation easier and more exciting.
4. GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.1/10
Meet the GE GCST10A1WSS, a versatile 4-in-1 microwave oven that’s a game-changer for any kitchen, dorm room, or office. This stainless steel powerhouse packs a punch with 1,050 watts and a 1.0 cubic foot capacity, making it a compact yet mighty addition to your countertop. It’s not just a microwave; it’s an air fryer, a broiler, and a convection oven all rolled into one, simplifying meal prep and expanding your cooking options.
What We Like:
- The built-in air fryer lets you cook crispy, healthier versions of your favorite foods quickly.
- Convection mode, complete with a special rack, ensures even cooking and perfectly golden results.
- Broil mode allows you to sear and caramelize food, just like a grill.
- Preset controls for items like fries and nuggets make cooking simple and accurate.
- The two-step child lock feature provides safety for families with young children.
- Its compact size makes it ideal for smaller spaces like dorm rooms and apartments.
- The glass turntable rotates food for even cooking every time.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it offers multiple functions, some users might find the initial learning curve for the different modes a bit steep.
- The 1.0 cubic foot capacity, while sufficient for many, might be limiting for cooking larger meals or multiple dishes at once.
This GE microwave oven is a fantastic appliance for anyone looking to maximize their cooking capabilities in a compact space. It truly offers a lot of bang for your buck.
5. Samsung NQ70M7770DS 7.0 Cu. Ft. Stainless Combination Electric Wall Oven
Rating: 8.5/10
The Samsung NQ70M7770DS 7.0 Cu. Ft. Stainless Combination Electric Wall Oven is a game-changer for any kitchen. It offers a huge capacity and smart features that make cooking easier and more enjoyable. This oven blends a powerful microwave with a versatile electric oven, giving you all the tools you need to create amazing meals.
What We Like:
- FLEX DUO: Cook two meals at once with different temperatures. No more mixing flavors!
- Power Convection Microwave: This feature cooks food faster and more evenly. Save precious time in the kitchen.
- Steam Cook Oven: Get crispy exteriors and juicy insides. It’s perfect for baking and roasting.
- Large Capacity & Fingerprint Resistant: The 5.1 cu. ft. oven fits big dishes. Plus, it stays looking clean and beautiful.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Control your oven from your phone using the SmartThings App. Check on your food from anywhere.
- Voice Control: Use Bixby, Alexa, or Google to control the oven with your voice. It’s super convenient when your hands are full.
- Illuminated Controls: The easy-to-use controls light up only what you need. This makes cooking simple and clear.
- Self Clean: Let the oven clean itself! It burns off grease and food residue at high temperatures.
What Could Be Improved:
- The initial setup of Wi
Microwave and Oven Combos: Your Kitchen’s New Best Friend
Are you tired of juggling multiple appliances? A microwave and oven combo can be a game-changer for your kitchen. These versatile units combine the speed of a microwave with the cooking power of a traditional oven. This guide will help you find the perfect combo for your home.
Key Features to Look For
When choosing a microwave and oven combo, several features make a big difference.
1. Cooking Modes
- Microwave Function: This is standard. Check for power levels and preset cooking options.
- Convection Oven: This is a major plus. It uses a fan to circulate hot air. This cooks food faster and more evenly, giving you crispy results.
- Grill Function: Some combos have a grill element. This is great for browning and crisping up dishes.
- Combination Cooking: The best combos let you use microwave and convection at the same time. This dramatically cuts down cooking time.
2. Capacity and Size
Measure your kitchen space carefully. Combos come in different sizes. Think about how much food you usually cook. A larger family might need a bigger capacity.
3. Controls and Interface
Look for easy-to-use controls. Digital displays and touchpads are common. Some have knobs, which some users prefer. Clear labels are important.
4. Cleaning Features
Cleaning can be a chore. Many combos have self-cleaning or steam-cleaning options. Stainless steel interiors are usually easier to wipe down than coated ones.
5. Safety Features
Child lock features are important for families with young children. A cool-touch exterior is also a good safety feature.
Important Materials
The materials used affect durability and performance.
- Stainless Steel: Many high-end combos use stainless steel for the interior and exterior. It’s durable, easy to clean, and looks good.
- Tempered Glass: The oven door usually has tempered glass. This is strong and can withstand high temperatures.
- Ceramic or Enamel Interior: Some models have ceramic or enamel interiors. These are generally easy to clean but can be prone to chipping if not cared for properly.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things impact the quality of a microwave and oven combo.
What Makes Them Better?
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often have better quality control and customer service.
- Build Quality: A solid, well-built unit feels sturdy. Check for smooth door operation and secure controls.
- Even Heating: Good convection and microwave distribution ensure food cooks evenly.
- User Reviews: Reading reviews from other buyers gives you real-world insights.
What Can Make Them Less Good?
- Flimsy Construction: A unit that feels cheap or wobbly might not last long.
- Uneven Cooking: If food is cooked unevenly, it can be frustrating.
- Difficult Cleaning: Hard-to-clean interiors can be a major drawback.
- Short Lifespan: Some cheaper models may not last as long as expected.
User Experience and Use Cases
Microwave and oven combos are incredibly useful for many tasks.
Everyday Convenience
You can quickly reheat leftovers with the microwave. Then, you can bake cookies or roast a chicken using the convection oven. This saves you time and counter space.
Small Kitchens
For apartments or smaller homes, a combo unit is ideal. It gives you the functionality of two appliances in one footprint. This frees up valuable kitchen real estate.
Busy Households
Parents can use the microwave to quickly heat up snacks for kids. Meanwhile, the oven can be used for family dinners. The combination cooking modes are a lifesaver on busy weeknights.
Entertaining
When hosting parties, you can use the microwave to warm appetizers. The convection oven can bake or roast main dishes. The grill function can add a nice char to vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main difference between a microwave and a convection oven?
A: A microwave uses electromagnetic waves to heat food quickly. A convection oven uses a heating element and a fan to circulate hot air for baking and roasting.
Q: Can I use both the microwave and oven functions at the same time?
A: Yes, many combo units allow for combination cooking. This speeds up cooking times significantly.
Q: Are microwave and oven combos difficult to clean?
A: Some are easier than others. Look for self-cleaning or steam-cleaning features and stainless steel interiors for simpler cleaning.
Q: How much space do these units typically take up?
A: They vary in size, but they are designed to replace both a standalone microwave and a smaller oven, often fitting into standard cabinet spaces.
Q: Are they energy efficient?
A: Convection cooking is generally more energy efficient than traditional oven heating because it cooks faster. Microwaves are also very efficient for quick heating.
Q: What is the typical lifespan of a microwave and oven combo?
A: With proper care, they can last anywhere from 7 to 15 years, similar to standalone appliances.
Q: Can I bake cakes and bread in a microwave and oven combo?
A: Absolutely! The convection oven function is excellent for baking cakes, bread, and pastries.
Q: Do I need special cookware for a microwave and oven combo?
A: For the microwave function, you need microwave-safe dishes. For the oven and convection functions, use oven-safe cookware like metal, glass, or ceramic.
Q: What is a “grill function” in these appliances?
A: The grill function uses a direct heating element, usually from the top, to brown and crisp food, similar to an outdoor grill.
Q: Are these units more expensive than buying a separate microwave and oven?
A: While the initial cost might seem higher, the convenience and space-saving benefits often make them a worthwhile investment, and they can be comparable to purchasing two quality separate appliances.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.