Imagine a kitchen where one appliance does it all: browning toast to perfection, reheating leftovers in a flash, and even baking small treats. Sounds like a dream, right? For many of us, our kitchens are getting smaller, and counter space is precious. Trying to fit both a toaster and a microwave can feel like a juggling act, and when you start looking for a combo unit, the choices can be overwhelming. You want something that toasts well, microwaves efficiently, and maybe even offers a few extra cooking tricks, but where do you even begin?
Choosing the right toaster oven microwave combo can feel like a puzzle. You’re balancing speed with quality, convenience with capability, and trying to figure out which features actually matter for your everyday cooking needs. It’s easy to get lost in confusing specifications or end up with an appliance that doesn’t quite live up to its promise. But what if there was a way to cut through the clutter and find the perfect fit for your kitchen and your lifestyle?
In this guide, we’ll break down what makes a great toaster oven microwave combo. We’ll explore the key features to look for, discuss the pros and cons of different models, and help you understand which one will best suit your cooking habits. Get ready to discover how this versatile appliance can simplify your meal prep and free up valuable counter space, making your kitchen life a whole lot easier.
Our Top 5 Toaster Oven Microwave Combo Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Toaster Oven Microwave Combo Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.5/10
The TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen appliance that can do more than just reheat leftovers. It’s designed to be your go-to for cooking, frying, and baking, all in one sleek package.
What We Like:
- It’s an 8-in-1 wonder, handling microwave, air fry, convection bake, broil, low temp cooking, odor removal, and defrosting.
- Enjoy healthier fried foods with the air fryer function, which uses less oil.
- It’s powerful, with 1000 watts of microwave output, making cooking faster.
- The 12.4-inch turntable fits a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza, offering good capacity for its size.
- Convenient features like one-touch popcorn, easy knobs, and a mute function make it user-friendly.
- The black stainless steel finish looks stylish in any kitchen.
- A two-step child lock adds an important safety feature for families.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the initial setup for the child lock a bit tricky, requiring a look at the instructions.
- While compact, the external dimensions might still be a consideration for very small countertops.
This TOSHIBA microwave oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering a lot of cooking options in one appliance. It balances performance with user-friendly features for a great cooking experience.
2. BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry
Rating: 9.1/10
The BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven is a versatile countertop appliance that can do more than just heat up leftovers. It combines the functions of a microwave, air fryer, grill, convection oven, and roaster into one sleek, stainless steel unit. With 900 watts of power and 0.9 cubic feet of space, it’s designed to handle a variety of cooking tasks for your family.
What We Like:
- Versatile Cooking: This oven offers five cooking functions: microwave, air fry, combi (grill/convection), bake, and roast. It truly can do it all.
- Convenient Presets: It features 7 auto menus for common items like popcorn and pizza, plus 11 air fry presets for popular snacks like fries and chicken wings. This makes cooking quick and easy.
- Simple Operation: The “Speedy Cooking” feature lets you start cooking at full power for 30 seconds with a single button press.
- Safety Feature: The child-lock setting prevents accidental button presses, keeping your little ones safe.
What Could Be Improved:
- Capacity: At 0.9 cubic feet, it might be a bit small for larger families or cooking big meals.
- Learning Curve: While presets are helpful, mastering all five functions might take some practice.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen looking for a multi-functional appliance. It simplifies cooking with its many features and presets.
3. Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.2/10
Meet the Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, ML-EC42P(SS). This kitchen helper does more than just heat your leftovers. It’s a microwave, an air fryer, a convection oven, and it even combines microwave and convection cooking. This means you can cook a whole chicken or a pizza with ease.
What We Like:
- It’s a 4-in-1 appliance, so it saves counter space.
- The air fryer feature lets you enjoy crispy food with less oil.
- It has smart sensor menus for cooking popular foods perfectly.
- The large 1.5 cubic foot capacity and 13.6-inch turntable fit big meals.
- You can mute the annoying buzzer with the special mute function.
- It looks sleek with its stainless steel finish.
- Convenience features like speedy cooking and memory function make cooking faster.
What Could Be Improved:
- The stainless steel finish can show fingerprints.
- Some users might find the initial setup or learning curve a bit tricky.
This Toshiba microwave oven is a versatile addition to any kitchen, offering a healthy way to cook and saving you time and space.
4. Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo
Rating: 9.5/10
Get ready to transform your kitchen with the Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo. This isn’t just another appliance; it’s your new best friend for making delicious meals. From crispy snacks for the kids to a fancy roast for guests, this combo does it all. Its sleek stainless steel finish and elegant French doors make it a stylish addition to any countertop.
What We Like:
- It’s a super versatile air fryer and multi-cooker. You can cook almost anything with it.
- Toast comes out perfectly every time. The oven turns off automatically, so no more burnt toast!
- It has 25 cooking presets, giving you tons of options like baking, roasting, and even slow cooking.
- The dual-speed fan makes food extra crispy by circulating hot air all around.
- It’s large, with a 26-quart capacity. You can cook a 6-lb chicken or a 12-inch pizza easily. It’s great for feeding 4-6 people.
- The stainless steel exterior looks fantastic in any kitchen.
- The French doors are easy to open with one pull. The interior light helps you see your food as it cooks.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many functions, learning all 25 presets might take some time.
- The “Keep Warm” function could be more powerful for longer periods.
This Emeril Lagasse combo is a game-changer for home cooks. It makes preparing a variety of meals easy and enjoyable.
5. GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.5/10
Meet the GE GCST10A1WSS, a 4-in-1 microwave oven that’s more than just a microwave! This stainless steel appliance packs a punch with its 1,050 watts of power and a 1.0 cubic foot capacity. It’s designed to be a kitchen essential, fitting perfectly on your countertop or in a dorm room. With features like air frying, broiling, and convection, it simplifies cooking and opens up a world of delicious possibilities.
What We Like:
- Versatile Cooking: Enjoy healthier, crispy foods with the built-in air fryer. Achieve perfectly golden-brown results with the convection mode, thanks to even heat circulation. Sear and caramelize foods to perfection using the broil mode.
- Safety First: The two-step child lock feature adds an extra layer of safety, preventing accidental use by little ones.
- Convenient Presets: Quickly cook popular items like fries and nuggets with easy-to-use preset controls, ensuring delicious outcomes every time.
- Space-Saving Design: This compact microwave is powerful yet fits easily into smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices.
- Even Cooking: The glass turntable rotates food throughout the cooking cycle, guaranteeing even heating and thorough cooking.
What Could Be Improved:
- The user manual could be more detailed regarding the convection and air frying rack placement for various foods.
- While compact, the 1.0 cu. ft. capacity might be limiting for larger families or batch cooking.
The GE GCST10A1WSS is a fantastic addition to any kitchen or dorm, offering a variety of cooking functions in one convenient appliance. It’s a smart choice for those seeking versatility and ease of use.
The Smart Kitchen Companion: Your Guide to Toaster Oven Microwave Combos
Are you looking for a kitchen gadget that can do it all? A toaster oven microwave combo might be your answer! These handy appliances combine the crisping power of a toaster oven with the speed of a microwave. This guide will help you pick the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
- Versatility: The best combos can toast, bake, broil, and microwave. Some even have air fry or convection settings. More functions mean you can cook almost anything.
- Capacity: Think about what you’ll cook. Do you need to fit a whole chicken? Or just toast a few slices of bread? Combos come in different sizes. A larger capacity is good for families, while a smaller one is great for apartments.
- Power (Wattage): Higher wattage usually means faster cooking. For microwaves, 900-1200 watts is common. For toaster ovens, look at the broil and bake wattage.
- Ease of Use: Simple controls are a must. Look for clear buttons or a digital display. Easy-to-clean surfaces also save you time and effort.
- Preset Cooking Functions: Many models have buttons for common foods like pizza, popcorn, or bagels. These make cooking quick and easy.
Important Materials
The materials used in a toaster oven microwave combo affect its durability and how it cooks.
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice for the exterior and interior. It looks sleek, is easy to clean, and is very durable.
- Non-stick Interior: A non-stick coating inside makes cleaning up spills and splatters much easier.
- Tempered Glass Door: A strong glass door lets you see your food as it cooks. It should be heat-resistant.
Factors That Affect Quality
Not all combos are created equal. Here’s what can make one better than another.
- Even Heating: Does the appliance cook food evenly? Check reviews to see if users report hot spots or undercooked areas.
- Build Quality: A sturdy build means the appliance will last longer. Wobbly parts or cheap-feeling buttons can be a sign of lower quality.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often have better customer service and produce more reliable products.
- Safety Features: Look for features like auto shut-off and cool-touch exteriors.
User Experience and Use Cases
These appliances are great for many situations.
- Small Kitchens: If you have limited counter space, a combo saves room by replacing two appliances.
- Dorm Rooms or Apartments: They are perfect for students or those living in small spaces who want more cooking options than just a microwave.
- Quick Meals: Reheat leftovers, toast bread, or even bake a small batch of cookies quickly.
- Busy Families: Use the microwave for speed and the toaster oven for crispier results.
Choosing a toaster oven microwave combo can make your kitchen more efficient and versatile. Consider your cooking needs and the features that matter most to you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a toaster oven microwave combo?
A: It’s a kitchen appliance that combines the functions of a toaster oven (for toasting, baking, broiling) and a microwave (for quick heating).
Q: Can I toast bread in it?
A: Yes, most toaster oven microwave combos have a dedicated toasting function.
Q: How does it differ from a regular microwave?
A: It offers more cooking methods like baking and broiling, which a standard microwave cannot do. It can also achieve crispier results.
Q: What size should I get?
A: Consider how many people you cook for and the types of food you usually prepare. Smaller ones are good for 1-2 people, while larger ones are better for families.
Q: Are they energy efficient?
A: They can be more energy efficient than using separate appliances, especially if you use the right function for the job. Microwaving is generally very efficient.
Q: Is it hard to clean?
A: Many come with non-stick interiors and removable crumb trays, making cleaning easier. Always check the cleaning instructions for specific models.
Q: Can I bake a cake in it?
A: Yes, many models can bake cakes, muffins, and other baked goods. Check the oven’s temperature range and capacity.
Q: What is convection cooking?
A: Convection cooking uses a fan to circulate hot air. This cooks food more evenly and faster, giving it a nice crispy texture.
Q: Do they have preset cooking options?
A: Many models do. These presets are for common foods like pizza, bagels, or popcorn and simplify the cooking process.
Q: Are they safe to use?
A: Yes, they are designed with safety features like automatic shut-off and heat-resistant exteriors. Always follow the user manual for safe operation.
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!