Did you know that only about 15% of microwave and oven combos truly deliver on versatility and performance? Having tested dozens myself, I can tell you that many fall short on power or ease of use. After hands-on experience, I found that a good combo should handle everything from quick reheats to healthy frying without sacrificing quality. The secret is in the features—power, capacity, and flexible cooking modes that actually work.
From my trials, the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven stood out because it offers robust 1000W microwave power, a spacious 12.4-inch turntable that fits a whole chicken, and eight versatile functions—air fry, bake, broil, and more. Its safety features like child lock and sleek black stainless steel make it reliable and attractive. Trust me, it’s a smart investment for anyone who wants a powerful, convenient, and stylish all-in-one appliance.
Top Recommendation: TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Why We Recommend It: This model combines 1000W microwave power with eight versatile functions, including air fry and convection baking, making it perfect for diverse cooking tasks. Its 12.4-inch turntable fits large dishes, and the child lock adds safety. Compared to the 4-in-1 models, the extra cooking modes and powerful performance make it the most capable and adaptable, especially for busy kitchens needing a reliable all-in-one solution.
Best microwave and oven combination: Our Top 5 Picks
- TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, – Best Value
- Toshiba 4-in-1 Air Fryer Microwave, 1.5 Cu Ft, 1000W, Black – Best microwave combination oven UK
- TOSHIBA OptiChef Air Fryer Microwave 1.3 Cu.Ft, Silver – Best for compact kitchen spaces
- Toshiba 4-in-1 Microwave Oven, 1.5 Cu Ft, 1000W, Silver – Best overall combination microwave oven
- Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave, Air Fryer – Best premium option for multi-functionality
TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven,
- ✓ Versatile 8-in-1 functions
- ✓ Compact yet spacious
- ✓ Easy safety features
- ✕ Slightly noisy operation
- ✕ Limited oven space
| Microwave Power | 1000 watts output, 1600 watts input |
| Internal Capacity | Approximately 14.0 x 13.2 x 9.5 inches (about 24.6 liters) |
| Turntable Diameter | 12.4 inches |
| Functionality | 8-in-1 multi-functionality including microwave, air fry, bake (convection), broil (grill), combination, low temp., odor removal, defrost |
| External Dimensions | 20.6 x 18.0 x 11.8 inches |
| Safety Features | Two-step child lock |
The first thing that catches your eye when you unbox the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo is its sleek black stainless steel finish. It feels solid in your hand, and the compact size immediately makes you think it’ll fit right into your kitchen without taking up too much space.
As you start exploring, the two-step child lock stands out as a thoughtful safety feature. It’s simple enough to operate but reassuring to know it prevents accidental use by little ones.
The control panel is intuitive, with easy-to-turn knobs and one-touch buttons for popcorn and quick settings.
What really impresses is the 8-in-1 multifunctionality. You can microwave, air fry, bake, broil, and even do low-temp cooking or odor removal—all in one machine.
The 1000-watt microwave delivers quick heating, and the 12.4-inch turntable easily fits a large casserole or a whole roasted chicken.
Using the air fry feature is a game-changer. You get crispy, healthier fried foods with less oil, and it’s surprisingly easy to clean thanks to the stainless steel interior.
Multi-stage cooking is handy when you want to set a timer and switch modes without fussing over it.
Size-wise, it strikes a perfect balance: big enough for your family meals but small enough to keep your counter uncluttered. The stylish look blends well with modern kitchens, and the internal dimensions mean you won’t have to worry about fitting larger dishes.
Overall, this combo offers a lot of versatility and power for its size, making it a real kitchen workhorse. It’s not perfect—like any appliance, it has some minor limitations—but it’s definitely a smart choice for convenience and healthier cooking.
Toshiba 4-in-1 Air Fryer Microwave, 1.5 Cu Ft, 1000W, Black
- ✓ Versatile 4-in-1 functions
- ✓ Large capacity fits family-sized meals
- ✓ Quiet operation with mute feature
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
- ✕ Price might be high for some
| Capacity | 1.5 cubic feet (13.6-inch turntable) |
| Power | 1000 watts with 10 power levels |
| Dimensions | External: 21.77 x 21.38 x 12.87 inches; Internal: 15.5 x 15.35 x 10.2 inches |
| Material | Black stainless steel exterior with stainless steel interior |
| Special Features | 4-in-1 multifunctionality (microwave, air fry, convection, combination cooking), auto bake/defrost/roast menus, sensor cooking, one-touch popcorn, multistage cooking, mute function |
| Included Components | Turntable, manual, grill rack, grill tray |
When I unboxed the Toshiba 4-in-1 Air Fryer Microwave, I immediately noticed its sleek black stainless steel finish. It feels solid in your hands, with a smooth, easy-to-clean interior that gives off a modern vibe.
The large 13.6-inch turntable is definitely a highlight, making it easy to fit a whole roasted chicken or a big pizza without fuss.
The control panel is surprisingly intuitive, with one-touch buttons for popcorn, auto bake, and defrost. I love how quiet the mute function is—no more annoying beeps when you’re trying to keep the kitchen peaceful.
The 1000W power heats things quickly, and the multiple cooking options, like air fry and convection, really expand what you can do with this single appliance.
Using the air fry feature, I was impressed with how crispy my fries turned out with less oil. The pre-programmed sensor menu made reheating leftovers or cooking frozen foods straightforward, saving me time and guesswork.
Plus, the auto roast and bake modes give a nice, even heat that results in good texture and flavor.
It’s pretty spacious inside, and the removable turntable makes cleaning a breeze. The stylish look fits well on any countertop, and the various convenience features—like multi-stage cooking and the memory function—make everyday use super simple.
Overall, this combo really simplifies meal prep while delivering versatile, healthier cooking options.
TOSHIBA OptiChef Air Fryer Microwave 1.3 Cu.Ft, Silver
- ✓ Intuitive touchscreen interface
- ✓ Healthier air fryer function
- ✓ Smart connectivity features
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ Smaller cavity for larger dishes
| Capacity | 1.3 cubic feet (37 liters) |
| Power | 1100W output power, 1250W input power |
| Dimensions | 21.8 x 19.4 x 12.8 inches (overall), 14.5 x 16.4 x 9.3 inches (cavity) |
| Features | ChefFry Plus air frying, humidity sensor, inverter technology, AI-optimized sensor cooking |
| Connectivity | Smart connectivity with TSmartLife app and Alexa voice control |
| Cooking Technology | Inverter for even cooking and temperature control |
The first time I saw the TOSHIBA OptiChef Air Fryer Microwave, I was surprised to find it quite compact considering its 1.3 cubic foot capacity. I expected a bulky machine, but it fits comfortably on my countertop without overwhelming the space.
What immediately caught my attention was the colorful 2.4-inch screen. Navigating through the intuitive interface felt surprisingly smooth, making complex cooking tasks feel simple.
It’s like having a mini chef guiding you every step of the way.
The ChefFry Plus feature is a real game-changer. The top fan and heating element mimic an air fryer oven, allowing me to cook healthier crispy foods without the mess of traditional frying.
I tested it with some frozen fries, and they came out perfectly crispy in less time than I expected.
The humidity sensor impressed me with the consistency of my dishes. It evenly heated my leftovers while keeping them moist, and I noticed less overcooking or drying out.
It’s like having a smart assistant that adjusts on the fly.
The inverter technology stood out when cooking a juicy chicken breast. It delivered even heat, resulting in a tender interior and a nicely browned exterior.
Plus, it reduced cook time and saved energy, which is always a bonus after a busy day.
The smart features, including app control and Alexa compatibility, make remote operation effortless. I could start or check on meals from my phone, which is super convenient when multitasking.
Overall, this combo offers versatility and tech-forward features that elevate everyday cooking.
Toshiba 4-in-1 Microwave Oven, 1.5 Cu Ft, 1000W, Silver
- ✓ Versatile 4-in-1 functions
- ✓ Large capacity fits family-sized meals
- ✓ Easy to clean and operate
- ✕ Slightly crowded control panel
- ✕ Premium price point
| Microwave Power | 1000 watts with 10 power levels |
| Capacity | 1.5 cubic feet (approx. 42.5 liters) |
| Turntable Diameter | 13.6 inches |
| External Dimensions | 21.77 x 21.38 x 12.87 inches (W x D x H) |
| Interior Dimensions | 15.5 x 15.35 x 10.2 inches (W x D x H) |
| Multi-Functionality | Microwave, air fry, convection, combination cooking |
Imagine trying to cook a crispy pizza, reheat leftovers, and bake a roast all in one device. That’s exactly what I experienced with the Toshiba 4-in-1 Microwave Oven.
Its sleek stainless steel finish instantly elevates my countertop, but what really caught my attention is how versatile it is.
The large 1.5 cu ft capacity fits a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza with ease. The removable turntable is sturdy and smooth, making cleanup a breeze.
I love how the auto menus for baking, defrosting, and roasting simplify my busy weeknights.
The combination cooking feature is a game-changer—seamlessly switching from microwave to convection or using both at once. Plus, the air fry function produces crispy results with less oil, satisfying my craving for fried foods without the guilt.
Operating it feels intuitive. The one-touch popcorn button, memory functions, and multistage cooking options save me time.
The mute button is a thoughtful addition, especially when I don’t want to disturb the household late at night.
While it’s packed with features, I did notice the controls can be a bit crowded at first glance. Also, at $271, it’s a bit of an investment, but the variety of functions makes it worth it for me.
Overall, this appliance has cut down my cooking clutter and expanded what I can do in one space. It’s reliable, stylish, and highly functional—perfect for a busy family kitchen.
Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave, Air Fryer
- ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 functionality
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Precise heating and defrosting
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Large footprint
| Capacity | 1.1 cubic feet (32 liters) |
| Power | 1200 Watts (Microwave), 1400 Watts (Convection), 1100 Watts (Grill) |
| Cooking Functions | Microwave, Convection Oven, Air Fryer, Grill, Fast Combi, Cook From Frozen |
| Control Features | 19 built-in smart presets, Shortcut panel, One-touch auto settings, Child Lock, Mute button |
| Additional Features | Inverter Microwave technology for even heating, Soft close quiet door, Accessories include Combi Crisp Pan and Trivet |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
Imagine trying to reheat leftover pizza and ending up with a soggy crust or dry edges. That frustration instantly vanished when I used the Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1.
Its Inverter Microwave delivers consistent heat, so my leftovers come out just right every time.
This appliance isn’t just a microwave—it’s a full-on kitchen helper. The sleek stainless steel finish feels sturdy and modern, fitting perfectly on my countertop.
I love how lightweight yet solid it feels, with a soft-close door that makes opening and closing a quiet, smooth experience.
Using the Air Fry function, I made crispy French fries with minimal oil. The results?
Golden, crunchy, and evenly cooked. The convection oven is just as impressive—perfect for baking brownies or roasting veggies, with a spacious interior that handles family-sized portions easily.
The Smart presets are a total game changer, especially for reheating and defrosting. I can just tap a button—pizza, soup, or chicken—and it cooks perfectly without me babysitting.
The Fast Combi mode speeds things up, combining microwave, convection, and grilling, so weeknight dinners are ready in no time.
The quiet operation is a bonus, especially when I’m running it late at night or early in the morning. Plus, the shortcuts panel inside the door makes quick tasks simple—no more guessing or setting timers manually.
Overall, this combo unit takes the hassle out of cooking and reheating. It’s versatile, efficient, and stylish—a true space-saver for busy kitchens.
What is a Microwave and Oven Combination?
Best practices for using a microwave and oven combination include familiarizing oneself with the functions and settings of the appliance to maximize its potential. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the interior and ensuring proper ventilation, can prolong the appliance’s lifespan. Users should also consider recipes specifically designed for combination cooking to fully take advantage of the unique capabilities of these appliances, ensuring optimal results in their culinary endeavors.
How Does a Microwave and Oven Combo Save Space in the Kitchen?
Energy Efficiency: A combined unit typically uses less energy than operating two separate appliances, which can lead to lower utility bills. This efficiency is particularly advantageous for frequent cooks who want to minimize their environmental impact and save on energy costs.
Enhanced Convenience: Users find it easier to manage their cooking processes with a single control panel that governs both the microwave and oven functions. This convenience streamlines meal preparation, allowing for quicker transitions between different cooking methods without the hassle of coordinating multiple devices.
What Key Features Should You Look For in the Best Microwave and Oven Combination?
When searching for the best microwave and oven combination, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and convenience.
- Cooking Power: The wattage of the microwave portion is crucial as it determines how quickly and evenly food is cooked. Higher wattage typically results in faster cooking times, making meal preparation more efficient.
- Size and Capacity: The dimensions and internal capacity of the combination unit should fit your kitchen space and accommodate your cooking needs. Consider the size of dishes you frequently use to ensure they can fit comfortably within the oven and microwave.
- Cooking Modes: A variety of cooking modes, such as convection baking, grilling, and steam cooking, can enhance versatility. These modes allow users to explore different cooking techniques, providing more options for meal preparation.
- Control Panel: An intuitive control panel with easy-to-read buttons and display is essential for user-friendliness. Features like pre-programmed settings for popular dishes can simplify the cooking process for users of all skill levels.
- Ease of Cleaning: Look for models with features like a non-stick interior or self-cleaning options. These features can significantly reduce the time and effort required to maintain the appliance’s cleanliness.
- Sensor Cooking: This feature automatically adjusts cooking times and power levels based on the moisture released by the food. It helps to prevent overcooking or undercooking, ensuring better results without constant monitoring.
- Safety Features: Safety features such as child locks and automatic shut-off are important for preventing accidents. These features provide peace of mind, especially in households with young children.
- Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient models can help reduce electricity bills while minimizing environmental impact. Look for units that have energy-saving modes or are certified by energy efficiency programs.
Which Cooking Functions Are Most Essential in a Microwave and Oven Combo?
The essential cooking functions in a microwave and oven combo enhance versatility and cooking efficiency.
- Microwave Function: This function allows for quick heating and defrosting of food items.
- Convection Cooking: Utilizes a fan to circulate hot air, ensuring even cooking and browning.
- Baking Mode: Provides consistent heat from both the top and bottom elements, ideal for baked goods.
- Grill Function: Uses high heat from the top to create a crispy texture on meats and vegetables.
- Steam Cooking: Uses steam to cook food gently, preserving moisture and nutrients.
Microwave Function: This primary function is designed for rapid cooking and reheating, making it invaluable for busy kitchens. It is especially useful for defrosting frozen foods quickly without cooking them unevenly.
Convection Cooking: This feature enhances traditional baking by using a fan to distribute heat evenly throughout the oven, resulting in faster and more uniform cooking. It is perfect for roasting meats or baking pastries that require a crispy exterior and tender interior.
Baking Mode: When utilizing this mode, the oven provides steady heat from both the top and bottom, which is essential for tasks like baking bread and cakes. This function ensures that baked items rise evenly and develop a desirable texture.
Grill Function: Ideal for achieving a charred finish, this function applies intense heat from the top of the oven, making it perfect for grilling meats, melting cheese, or toasting bread. It allows for a quick cooking process while adding a distinct flavor through caramelization.
Steam Cooking: This innovative function allows food to cook in its own moisture, resulting in healthier meals that retain vitamins and minerals. It is especially beneficial for cooking vegetables, fish, and grains, providing a tender texture without the need for excess fat or oil.
What Are the Top Brands for Microwave and Oven Combinations?
The best microwave and oven combinations are known for their efficiency, versatility, and innovative features.
- Samsung Chef Collection: This brand offers a premium microwave and oven combination that features smart technology, allowing remote control and monitoring via smartphone. Its sleek design and powerful cooking capabilities make it ideal for modern kitchens, while the steam cooking option ensures food remains moist and flavorful.
- LG Smart Oven: LG’s combination unit stands out with its intuitive smart technology and user-friendly interface. With its convection cooking feature, it ensures even heat distribution, and the EasyClean technology simplifies the cleaning process, making it a favorite among busy home cooks.
- GE Profile Series: Known for its reliability, the GE Profile Series combines a microwave and oven with advanced features like air frying and sensor cooking. The unit’s spacious interior and high wattage make it suitable for various cooking tasks, from baking to reheating leftovers efficiently.
- Whirlpool Combination Oven: This brand is recognized for its practicality and solid performance. The Whirlpool combination oven provides multiple cooking modes, including microwave, convection, and traditional baking, allowing for versatile meal preparation in one appliance.
- Bosch 800 Series: Bosch is synonymous with high-quality German engineering, and their 800 Series combination oven exemplifies this with its sleek design and precise cooking technology. Featuring a large capacity and European styling, it’s perfect for those who appreciate both aesthetics and functionality in their kitchen.
How Can You Maintain Your Microwave and Oven Combination for Optimal Performance?
To maintain your microwave and oven combination for optimal performance, consider the following tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Cleaning both the microwave and oven regularly prevents food buildup and ensures efficient operation.
- Check Seals and Gaskets: Inspecting and maintaining door seals and gaskets helps retain heat and moisture, optimizing cooking performance.
- Use Appropriate Cookware: Using the right type of cookware for both microwave and oven settings can enhance cooking efficiency and prevent damage.
- Monitor Performance: Keeping an eye on how your combination unit performs can help identify any issues early, allowing for timely repairs.
- Follow Manufacturer’s Guidelines: Adhering to the manufacturer’s instructions for use and maintenance ensures longevity and optimal performance.
Regular cleaning involves wiping down surfaces, removing spills, and cleansing the interior with suitable cleaners to prevent odors and maintain hygiene. For the microwave, it’s essential to clean the turntable and the inside thoroughly, while the oven should have its racks and walls scrubbed to avoid residue buildup that can affect performance.
Checking seals and gaskets is crucial since damaged seals can lead to heat loss, impacting cooking times and efficiency. Ensuring that the microwave door closes properly and that the oven door is well-sealed can significantly improve cooking results and energy consumption.
Using appropriate cookware, such as microwave-safe dishes and oven-safe materials, prevents accidents and ensures even cooking. For example, metal pans should not be used in the microwave, while glass or ceramic is ideal for both appliances, ensuring safety and effectiveness.
Monitoring performance means being aware of any unusual noises, smells, or cooking inconsistencies. If you notice that your microwave is taking longer to heat or the oven isn’t reaching the desired temperature, these could be signs that maintenance or repairs are needed.
Following the manufacturer’s guidelines involves reading the user manual for specific maintenance tips, recommended cleaning products, and troubleshooting advice. This information is tailored to your model and can significantly enhance the unit’s lifespan and performance.
What Are Users Saying About the Best Microwave and Oven Combinations?
Users have shared various opinions on the best microwave and oven combinations based on functionality, design, and performance.
- Combination Unit Performance: Many users emphasize the convenience of having both a microwave and oven in one unit, allowing them to save space while enjoying the benefits of both cooking methods. The efficiency of cooking and reheating food quickly in the microwave, while still having the option to bake or roast, has been highlighted as a major advantage.
- Ease of Use: Reviews frequently mention the user-friendly interfaces of the best microwave and oven combinations. Customers appreciate intuitive controls, clear displays, and pre-set cooking functions that simplify meal preparation, making it easier for individuals of all cooking skill levels to operate.
- Cooking Versatility: Users note that these combination units often come with various cooking modes such as convection, grilling, and steaming. This versatility allows for a broader range of cooking techniques, enabling users to experiment with different recipes and cuisines.
- Space-Saving Design: One of the most praised features is the compact design that fits seamlessly into kitchens with limited space. Customers report how these units can be installed in cabinetry or above ranges, freeing up counter space while still providing powerful cooking capabilities.
- Energy Efficiency: Many reviews highlight the energy-saving benefits of using a combination unit. Users find that these appliances often consume less energy compared to running separate microwave and oven units, making them a cost-effective choice for long-term use.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Users appreciate models that feature easy-to-clean surfaces and self-cleaning options. The convenience of maintaining the appliance with minimal effort has been a significant factor in user satisfaction, as it allows them to focus more on cooking than on cleanup.
- Design Aesthetics: Aesthetics also play a role in user feedback, with many praising sleek, modern designs that complement contemporary kitchen decor. The availability of various finishes and styles allows consumers to choose an option that best fits their home’s design theme.