Imagine a kitchen where you can bake a perfect batch of cookies and then quickly reheat leftovers without switching appliances. Sounds like a dream, right? That’s the magic of an oven microwave combo, a smart appliance that can truly transform your cooking experience. But with so many different models out there, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. You want something that bakes well, microwaves fast, and fits your kitchen, but where do you even start?
Choosing an oven microwave combo can be tricky because you’re looking for two appliances in one. You might worry about whether it bakes as well as a regular oven or microwaves as efficiently as a standalone unit. Plus, you need to consider size, features, and how it will look in your kitchen. It’s a big decision, and you want to get it right!
Don’t worry, we’re here to help! In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know. We’ll look at the different types of combos, what features really matter, and how to pick the perfect one for your needs and budget. Get ready to discover how an oven microwave combo can save you space, time, and effort in the kitchen, making meal prep a breeze.
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: 9.5/10
Meet the TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, your new kitchen powerhouse. This sleek black stainless steel appliance does more than just heat food. It’s a versatile helper that can microwave, air fry, bake, broil, and even has special modes for low-temperature cooking and odor removal. It’s designed to make your cooking easier and healthier, all while looking great on your countertop.
What We Like:
- It’s an 8-in-1 machine, meaning it can do many different cooking jobs.
- The healthy air fryer feature lets you enjoy fried foods with less oil.
- It has a powerful 1000-watt microwave output for quick cooking.
- The 12.4-inch turntable is big enough for a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- The position memory turntable remembers where your food was, so it starts spinning from the same spot.
- Safety is important, and the two-step child lock prevents little hands from turning it on by accident.
- It has handy features like one-touch popcorn and a mute function for quiet operation.
- The classic black stainless steel looks modern and is easy to clean, inside and out.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions for the two-step child lock could be clearer.
- While compact, the 1.0 cu.ft. capacity might feel small for very large families or extensive meal prep.
This TOSHIBA microwave oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering a wide range of cooking options in one stylish package.
2. Samsung NQ70M7770DS 7.0 Cu. Ft. Stainless Combination Electric Wall Oven
Rating: 8.7/10
The Samsung NQ70M7770DS 7.0 Cu. Ft. Stainless Combination Electric Wall Oven is a kitchen game-changer. It blends the best of a powerful oven and a speedy microwave into one sleek appliance. This oven makes cooking easier and more enjoyable, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned chef.
What We Like:
- FLEX DUO: You can cook two different meals at the same time with different temperatures. No more flavors mixing up!
- Power Convection Microwave: It cooks food fast and evenly, saving you precious time.
- Steam Cook: Get crispy exteriors and juicy interiors on your food. It adds just the right amount of moisture.
- Large Capacity & Fingerprint Resistant: The oven is big enough for big meals and doesn’t show smudges easily. It always looks clean.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Control your oven from your phone using the SmartThings App. Check cooking times and temperatures from anywhere.
- Voice Control: Use your voice to control the oven with Bixby, Alexa, or Google. It’s super handy when your hands are full.
- Illuminated Controls: The controls are easy to understand and only show you the options you need.
- Self Clean: The oven cleans itself by heating up to burn off food and grease.
What Could Be Improved:
- The large capacity, while a pro, might be too big for very small kitchens.
- While Wi-Fi connectivity is great, it requires a stable internet connection and the SmartThings app to be installed.
This Samsung wall oven offers amazing versatility and smart features. It’s designed to make your cooking experience more efficient and enjoyable.
3. 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 kitchen helper. It can microwave, air fry, combi cook, bake, and roast. This means you can cook many different types of food with just one appliance. It’s a great addition to any countertop.
What We Like:
- It’s a 5-in-1 appliance, so it does a lot of different cooking jobs.
- It has 10 power levels and 7 auto menus for easy cooking of common foods like popcorn and pizza.
- The air fryer function has 11 presets for things like fries, chicken, and fish.
- You can quickly start cooking at full power for 30-second intervals.
- It has a child-lock feature to keep kids from accidentally starting it.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.9 cu. ft. size might be a bit small for larger meals or family-sized portions.
- While it has many functions, mastering all of them might take some practice.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven offers a lot of cooking options in a compact size. It’s a good choice for anyone looking to save space and add convenience to their kitchen.
4. 6.4 cu. ft. Smart Combi Wall Oven with Fan Convection
Rating: 9.3/10
Level up your kitchen game with the 6.4 cu. ft. Smart Combi Wall Oven. This oven does it all, from air frying crispy favorites to baking perfect cookies. Its sleek PrintProof Stainless Steel finish looks amazing in any kitchen. Plus, the smart features make cooking easier than ever.
What We Like:
- Air Fry Power: This oven cooks food fast and evenly. You can air fry, bake, and roast with awesome results. Say goodbye to soggy fries and hello to crispy goodness!
- Easy to Use: The SmoothTouch glass controls are super simple to operate. They look modern and clean with just a touch. No complicated buttons here!
- Lots of Space: With 2 heavy-duty racks and 5 rack positions, you have plenty of room. Cook multiple dishes at once or fit that big holiday roast. It’s super flexible for all your cooking needs.
- Stylish Design: The PrintProof Stainless Steel looks great and resists fingerprints. Your oven will stay looking shiny and new.
What Could Be Improved:
- Smart Features Learning Curve: While the smart features are cool, some users might need a little time to learn them all. It’s not difficult, but it takes a moment to get used to.
- Price Point: As a high-tech appliance, this oven comes with a higher price tag. It’s an investment for your kitchen.
This oven is a fantastic addition for anyone who loves to cook and wants convenience. It offers great performance and a stylish look for your modern kitchen.
5. GE® 4-in-1 Countertop Convection Microwave Oven w/ 1
Rating: 9.4/10
Meet the GE® 4-in-1 Countertop Convection Microwave Oven, a kitchen powerhouse that does it all! This sleek stainless steel appliance is more than just a microwave; it’s an air fryer, a convection oven, and a broiler, all rolled into one compact design. With 1,050 watts of power and a 1.0 cubic foot capacity, it’s perfect for dorm rooms, small kitchens, or anyone looking to simplify their cooking. Plus, it features built-in child-lock technology for added peace of mind.
What We Like:
- The built-in air fryer lets you make crispy, healthier versions of your favorite fried foods without all the oil.
- Convection mode cooks food evenly and gives it a perfect golden-brown finish, just like a regular oven.
- The broiler function is great for searing meats or caramelizing foods, giving them a delicious grilled effect.
- Preset controls for common foods like fries and nuggets make cooking super easy and accurate.
- The two-step child lock is a fantastic safety feature for families with young children.
- Its compact size fits well in various spaces, from dorm rooms to apartments, without taking up too much counter space.
- The glass turntable rotates food, ensuring everything cooks evenly for delicious results every time.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many functions, the 1.0 cu. ft. capacity might be a bit small for larger families or cooking big meals.
- Some users might find the initial setup or learning all the different modes a little overwhelming at first.
This GE oven is a versatile and convenient addition to any kitchen. It truly simplifies meal prep with its multiple cooking functions.
Choosing Your Perfect Oven Microwave Combo: A Smart Kitchen Upgrade
An oven microwave combo is a kitchen superhero. It bakes, broils, roasts, and microwaves. It saves space and time. This guide helps you pick the best one for your home.
1. Key Features to Look For
Capacity
How much food do you cook? Combos come in different sizes. Small families might need 1.0 to 1.5 cubic feet. Larger families or those who entertain often should look for 1.6 cubic feet or more.
Cooking Power (Wattage)
Microwave wattage matters. Higher wattage (1000 watts or more) cooks food faster. Oven temperatures also vary. Make sure the oven reaches the temperatures you need for your favorite recipes.
Convection Cooking
This is a big one! Convection ovens use a fan to circulate hot air. This cooks food evenly and gives it a nice crispy finish. It’s great for baking cookies, roasting chicken, and making pizza.
Special Cooking Modes
Many combos have pre-programmed settings. These are for things like popcorn, pizza, or reheating leftovers. Some also offer sensor cooking, which adjusts time and power automatically based on the food’s moisture.
Ease of Cleaning
Look for smooth interior surfaces. Many models have self-cleaning features. This makes cleanup much easier after cooking.
2. Important Materials
Stainless Steel Interior
Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean. It resists stains and odors. This is a good choice for the inside of your combo.
Glass Turntable
A glass turntable rotates food for even microwaving. It should be removable for easy cleaning.
Durable Exterior
Most exteriors are made of stainless steel or coated metal. Stainless steel looks sleek and is strong. Make sure the exterior is fingerprint-resistant if you don’t want to wipe it down all the time.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Brand Reputation
Well-known brands often offer better quality and customer service. Read reviews to see what other people say about different brands.
Build Quality
A well-built combo feels solid. The doors should open and close smoothly. The buttons should be responsive. Avoid flimsy construction.
Warranty
A good warranty shows the manufacturer stands behind their product. Look for at least a one-year warranty on parts and labor. Some brands offer longer warranties on specific components like the magnetron (the part that makes microwaves).
User Reviews
Real-user reviews are invaluable. They tell you about everyday use, common problems, and what people love (or hate) about a particular model.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Busy Weeknights
Need dinner fast? Microwave function heats up meals quickly. Convection oven bakes chicken tenders or frozen pizzas in a flash.
Small Kitchens
Save counter space! A combo replaces two appliances with one. It’s perfect for apartments or smaller homes.
Entertaining Guests
Keep food warm in the oven while you finish cooking other dishes. Microwave can reheat appetizers or sides.
Baking Enthusiasts
The convection feature ensures even baking. You can bake cakes, cookies, and bread with professional results.
The Tech-Savvy Cook
Look for models with smart features. Some connect to Wi-Fi and can be controlled with your phone. They might offer guided cooking programs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main difference between an oven microwave combo and a regular oven and microwave?
A: A combo is one appliance that does both jobs. A regular setup uses two separate appliances.
Q: Can I bake and microwave at the same time?
A: No, you usually cannot use both functions at the exact same moment. You choose to microwave OR bake/roast.
Q: How long does an oven microwave combo typically last?
A: With good care, they can last 10 to 15 years. Regular cleaning helps a lot.
Q: Are oven microwave combos hard to install?
A: Most are designed to sit on a countertop or be built into cabinetry. Installation is usually straightforward, but check the manual.
Q: What is convection cooking?
A: It’s when a fan circulates hot air inside the oven. This cooks food more evenly and makes it crispier.
Q: Is it safe to put metal in an oven microwave combo?
A: You can put metal in the oven part, just like a regular oven. However, you should NEVER put metal in the microwave part unless the manual specifically says it’s okay for certain accessories.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my oven microwave combo?
A: You can wipe it with a damp cloth and mild soap. Some have self-cleaning features you can use.
Q: Do I need special cookware for an oven microwave combo?
A: For microwaving, use microwave-safe dishes (glass, ceramic, certain plastics). For oven cooking, use oven-safe cookware (metal, glass, ceramic).
Q: What are the energy efficiency ratings I should look for?
A: Look for ENERGY STAR certified models. They use less electricity, saving you money.
Q: Can I use both functions for cooking one meal?
A: Yes! You can microwave something to quickly cook it and then use the oven to brown or crisp it. Or, you can use the oven to bake and then the microwave to reheat a side dish.
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 Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!