Imagine a kitchen where one appliance can bake a perfect roast chicken and then quickly reheat your leftovers with the power of a microwave. Sounds amazing, right? But when it comes time to actually buy one of these clever oven-microwave combos, the choices can feel overwhelming. You might wonder, “Which one is best for my family?” or “Will it really save me time?” It’s a common problem, and we’re here to help you sort through it all.
This guide will make choosing your new kitchen helper much easier. We’ll break down what makes a good oven-microwave combo and explain the different features you’ll find. By the time you finish reading, you’ll feel confident knowing exactly what to look for to find the perfect fit for your cooking needs and your kitchen space. Get ready to discover how this one appliance can transform your cooking routine!
Our Top 5 Oven Microwave Combo Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Oven Microwave Combo Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.3/10
Meet the TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, a kitchen powerhouse that does more than just reheat your leftovers. This sleek black stainless steel appliance is designed to be your go-to for a variety of cooking tasks, from quick meals to healthier treats.
What We Like:
- Versatile Cooking: It’s not just a microwave! You can air fry, bake, broil, and more, making it an 8-in-1 wonder.
- Healthy Air Frying: Enjoy crispy, guilt-free fried foods with less oil.
- Powerful Performance: With 1000 watts of microwave power, it cooks food quickly and efficiently.
- Smart Turntable: The 12.4-inch turntable remembers your food’s position, so it comes out perfectly placed.
- Family-Friendly Safety: The two-step child lock keeps little hands from accidentally starting the oven.
- Compact Yet Spacious: It fits easily on your counter but is big enough for a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- Easy to Use Features: One-touch buttons, simple knobs, and a mute function add to the convenience.
- Stylish Design: 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 all its capabilities.
- Odor Removal Mode Explanation: While it has an odor removal mode, the exact steps to use it might need clearer instructions for some users.
This TOSHIBA microwave oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering a blend of convenience, health, and style.
2. BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry
Rating: 8.8/10
The BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen helper. It can microwave, air fry, grill, bake, and roast. This countertop appliance saves space. It’s great for making all sorts of meals.
What We Like:
- It offers five cooking functions: microwave, air fryer, combi, bake, and roast.
- It has 10 cooking levels and 900 watts of power for fast cooking.
- There are 7 auto menus for common foods like popcorn and pizza.
- It includes 11 air fry presets for easy cooking of favorites like fries and chicken wings.
- The speedy cooking feature lets you start cooking instantly.
- A child-lock setting keeps little ones from accidentally turning it on.
- The stainless steel finish looks modern on any counter.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity might be small for larger families or big meals.
- Some users might find the 11 air fry presets limiting if they like to experiment with custom recipes.
This BLACK+DECKER oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen that needs more cooking options. It makes meal preparation quicker and easier for busy households.
3. Samsung NQ70M7770DS 7.0 Cu. Ft. Stainless Combination Electric Wall Oven
Rating: 8.8/10
The Samsung NQ70M7770DS 7.0 Cu. Ft. Stainless Combination Electric Wall Oven is a game-changer for any kitchen. This oven makes cooking easier and more enjoyable with its smart features.
What We Like:
- **FLEX DUO:** You can cook two meals at different temperatures at the same time. This means no more waiting or flavors mixing.
- **Power Convection:** This feature cooks food fast and evenly. Your meals will be cooked perfectly every time.
- **Steam Cook:** Get crispy exteriors and juicy insides for your food. This feature adds moisture for better results.
- **Large Capacity & All Shine:** The oven is fingerprint resistant, so it always looks good. Its big size fits many dishes or large pans.
- **Wi-Fi Connectivity & Voice Control:** You can control the oven from your phone using the SmartThings App. You can also use voice commands with Bixby, Alexa, or Google.
- **Illuminated Digital-Analog Controls:** The controls are easy to understand. Only the available cooking options light up.
- **Self Clean:** The oven cleans itself. It heats up to burn off grease and food bits.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the oven has many advanced features, some users might find them a bit complex at first.
- The large capacity is great, but it might take up more space in some kitchens.
This Samsung wall oven offers incredible cooking flexibility and smart technology. It’s a fantastic addition for anyone looking to upgrade their cooking experience.
4. GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.5/10
Meet the GE GCST10A1WSS, a versatile 4-in-1 microwave that’s a game-changer for any kitchen, dorm room, or office. This sleek stainless steel appliance packs a powerful 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, offering a world of cooking possibilities.
What We Like:
- The built-in air fryer lets you make your favorite foods crispy and healthier without needing a separate appliance.
- Convection mode, complete with a special rack, ensures your food cooks evenly and gets perfectly golden brown.
- Broil mode lets you sear and caramelize food, just like a grill, right inside your microwave.
- Preset controls, like for fries and nuggets, make cooking simple and accurate.
- The two-step child lock feature gives you peace of mind by preventing accidental use.
- Its compact size is ideal for smaller spaces, but it still packs a powerful 1,050-watt punch.
- The glass turntable rotates your food for even cooking every time.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it offers multiple functions, the learning curve for mastering all the modes might take a little time for some users.
- The stainless steel finish, while stylish, can show fingerprints and may require frequent wiping to maintain its shine.
The GE GCST10A1WSS is a fantastic all-in-one solution for modern cooking needs. It simplifies meal prep and expands your culinary horizons, making it a must-have for busy individuals and small spaces.
5. Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready to transform your kitchen with the Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo. This appliance is a true game-changer, handling everything from quick snacks to big family dinners with ease. Its sleek stainless steel finish and elegant French doors add a touch of style to any countertop.
What We Like:
- It’s a super versatile air fryer and multi-cooker. You can air fry snacks or roast a whole chicken for a crowd.
- Toast comes out perfectly every time! The oven automatically turns off, so no more burnt toast.
- It has 25 cooking presets, so you can easily bake, roast, slow cook, and more.
- The dual-speed fan circulates hot air for crispy, golden results.
- The 26-quart capacity is huge! It can feed 4-6 people and even rotisserie a 6-lb chicken or bake a 12-inch pizza.
- The stainless steel exterior looks great in any kitchen, and the French doors make it easy to open.
- An interior light lets you keep an eye on your food while it cooks.
What Could Be Improved:
- With so many functions, it might take a little time to learn all the settings.
- The “Keep Warm” function is a nice addition, but we’d love to see even more specialized warming options.
This Emeril Lagasse oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering incredible versatility and style. It makes cooking easier and more enjoyable for everyone.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Oven Microwave Combo
Why Consider an Oven Microwave Combo?
An oven microwave combo is a kitchen superhero. It combines the speed of a microwave with the roasting and baking power of a traditional oven. This saves you space and gives you more cooking options. It’s perfect for smaller kitchens or for anyone who wants to cook smarter, not harder.
1. Key Features to Look For
Microwave Wattage
Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most combos range from 900 to 1200 watts. More power is generally better.
Convection Cooking
This feature uses a fan to circulate hot air. It cooks food evenly and gives it a nice crisp. It’s like having a mini oven inside your microwave.
Grill Function
Some combos have a grill element. This is great for browning and crisping up food, like the top of a casserole or some grilled cheese.
Sensor Cooking/Reheating
Sensors detect moisture and adjust cooking time automatically. This helps prevent overcooking or undercooking.
Turntable vs. Flatbed
A turntable spins your food for even heating. A flatbed design offers more usable space and is easier to clean.
Capacity
Consider how much food you usually cook. Combos come in various sizes, from compact to large family-sized models.
Pre-programmed Settings
Many combos have buttons for specific foods like popcorn or potatoes. These take the guesswork out of cooking.
2. Important Materials
Stainless Steel Interior
Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean. It also reflects heat well, helping food cook evenly.
Glass Turntable or Shelving
Glass is a common material for turntables and shelves. It’s easy to wipe clean.
Exterior Finish
Stainless steel, black, or white finishes are common. Choose one that matches your kitchen decor and is easy to keep clean.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Build Quality
A well-built combo feels sturdy. Check for solid doors and controls. Poorly made units can break easily.
Ease of Use
The control panel should be simple to understand. If it’s too complicated, you might not use all its features.
Cleaning Features
Removable turntables and smooth interior surfaces make cleaning much easier. Some models have steam clean functions.
Energy Efficiency
Look for models with good energy ratings. This can save you money on your electricity bills over time.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Quick Meals
Use the microwave function for reheating leftovers or cooking frozen meals fast.
Baking and Roasting
Use the oven or convection setting to bake cookies, roast chicken, or cook a pizza. It’s great for smaller items or when you don’t want to heat up a big oven.
Convenience
The combo saves you time and effort. You can defrost and cook in one appliance.
Space Saving
It’s ideal for apartments, dorm rooms, or RVs where space is limited.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are oven microwave combos worth the money?
A: Yes, they are often worth it. They offer versatility, saving you space and giving you more cooking options. They can replace both a microwave and a small oven.
Q: Can I bake a cake in an oven microwave combo?
A: Yes, most oven microwave combos with convection settings can bake cakes and other baked goods very well.
Q: How do I clean my oven microwave combo?
A: Always unplug the appliance first. Wipe the interior with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Removable parts can usually be washed in the sink or dishwasher. Check your user manual for specific cleaning instructions.
Q: What’s the difference between a convection microwave and a regular microwave?
A: A convection microwave has a fan that circulates hot air, allowing food to cook more evenly and get crispier. A regular microwave heats food using microwaves only.
Q: Can I use metal in an oven microwave combo?
A: Generally, you can use metal when using the oven or convection functions, as long as it’s not in contact with the microwave walls. However, always refer to your specific model’s manual, as some manufacturers have different guidelines.
Q: How long do oven microwave combos typically last?
A: With proper care and maintenance, an oven microwave combo can last anywhere from 7 to 15 years.
Q: What size oven microwave combo do I need?
A: Consider your cooking habits and the amount of counter space you have. For small households or limited space, a smaller unit might be fine. For larger families or frequent cooking, a bigger capacity is better.
Q: Are there any safety concerns with oven microwave combos?
A: Always follow the user manual. Ensure the door seals properly. Never operate the appliance when empty. Keep it away from water sources.
Q: Do I need special cookware for an oven microwave combo?
A: For microwave functions, use microwave-safe glass, ceramic, or plastic. For convection or oven functions, you can use oven-safe metal cookware, baking dishes, and silicone. Avoid plastic unless it’s labeled oven-safe.
Q: What is the warranty usually like for these appliances?
A: Most oven microwave combos come with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty covering parts and labor. Some may offer longer warranties on specific components like the magnetron.
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.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!