Top 5 Microwave Oven Combos: Essential Buying Guide

Imagine this: You’re trying to cook dinner fast, but your kitchen feels cramped. You need the speed of a microwave but the perfect bake of an oven. Does the thought of choosing a microwave and oven combo leave you feeling lost in a sea of confusing features and sizes? You are not alone! Today’s kitchens demand smart solutions, but matching the right combination unit to your cooking style can feel like a puzzle.

The biggest headache is often sacrificing one function for the other. You want powerful microwave speed *and* reliable oven performance, all fitting neatly into your counter space. Choosing wrong means wasted money and frustrating meals. This guide cuts through the noise. We will break down exactly what you need to look for, from capacity to cleaning ease.

By the end of this post, you will know exactly which microwave and oven combo fits your home perfectly. Get ready to upgrade your kitchen efficiency! Let’s dive into finding the ultimate cooking partner for your busy life.

Top Microwave And Oven Combo Recommendations

SaleBestseller No. 1
TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, with Convection, Broil, Odor Removal Mode, 12.4" Position Memory Turntable, Child-Lock, 1.0 Cu.ft, Black Stainless Steel, ML2-EC10SA(BS)
  • Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
  • 8-in-1 Multifuntional Microwave One microwave with multi-functions of microwave, air fry, bake(convection), broil (grill), combi., low temp., odor removal, defrost can fulfill more usages.
  • Healthy Air Fryer Microwave Combo: Enjoy your wholesome fried food with original taste but less fat with healthy air fry.
  • Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimension (WxDxH): 20.6*18.0*11.8 inches, internal dimension (WxDxH):14.0*13.2*9.5 inches, 12.4-inch position memory turntable
  • Compact Size but Large Capacity & Powerful: Small Footprint as Kitchen Essential, 12.4inch removable turntable can fit a whole roasted chicken, 12 inch pizza and 8*4 inch casserole, offers the perfect balance of size and convenience.
SaleBestseller No. 2
BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry, Combi, Bake, Roast, and Convection Cooking, 0.9 cu. ft. Countertop Microwave, Stainless Steel, 900 Watts, Child-Lock, ES9P032NA
  • 5-in-1 Microwave Oven: Use this essential countertop appliance for cooking in five functions: microwave, air fryer, combi (grill/convection), bake, and roast for all of your culinary needs.
  • 10 Cooking Levels: Featuring a 900-watt output, this compact microwave has 7 auto menus, including settings for Beverage, Fresh/Frozen Vegetables, Oatmeal, Potato, Popcorn, and Frozen Pizza.
  • Air Fry Presets: This small-but-mighty microwave has 11 preset air fry menus, including for cooking frozen French fries, steak fries, squid rings, chicken nuggets/wings/legs, fish sticks/fillets, cheese sticks, vegetables, and spring rolls with an easy-to-use operation.
  • Speedy Cooking: Directly press the start button to cook food at 100% power for 30 seconds and press again for an additional 30 seconds.
  • Child-Lock Setting: Press the stop button for 3 seconds to lock the control panel to keep little hands from clicking buttons on the appliance.
Bestseller No. 3
30Inch Microwave Convection Oven, 1.6 Cu. Ft. Built-In Microwave Oven with Air Fryer, Child Safety Lock, Drop Down Door, Touch Control, for Versatile Cooking Solutions
  • 🍞Versatile Cooking Modes🍞: This microwave convection oven features a powerful 950 W microwave and convection modes, offering multiple cooking functions including air fryer, popcorn, speed cook, defrost, sensor cook, and slow cook to meet all your needs
  • 🍞Spacious 1.6 Cu. Ft. Capacity🍞: This 30" built-in convection microwave oven combo features a spacious 1.6 Cu. Ft. interior, easily accommodating tall coffee mugs up to 7 inches and dishes measuring up to 16 x 16 inches for versatile cooking options
  • 🍞Intuitive Touch Controls🍞: Equipped with a user-friendly touch control panel and preset cooking modes, this built-in microwave with convection oven allows anyone to create delicious meals effortlessly, regardless of their cooking experience
  • 🍞Even Cooking Results🍞: Utilizing advanced convection technology with 3D surround heating, this microwave convection oven ensures even heat distribution, eliminating hot spots for greatly cooked and roasted dishes every time
  • 🍞Space-Saving Design🍞: Measuring 29.75 W x 20.12 D x 23.18 H inches, this built-in convection microwave oven saves valuable kitchen space by combining the functionalities of a microwave and convection oven, perfect for smaller kitchens
SaleBestseller No. 4
GE GCST10A1WSS 1.0 Cu Ft Convection Microwave Oven, 1050W Countertop Air Fry Microwave with Broil & Crisper Pan, Compact Stainless Steel Design
  • COMPACT YET POWERFUL: This 1,050-watt & 1.0 CU FT. compact microwave offers the perfect balance of size and convenience, designed to fit perfectly in dorm rooms, offices and kitchens alike
  • AIR FRY MODE: Enjoy healthier, crispier versions of your favorite foods with the built-in air fryer that delivers fast, perfectly browned results
  • CONVECTION MODE: Enjoy perfectly even browning using convection technology and an elevated rack that lets hot air flow around your food for consistent results
  • BROIL MODE: Built-in broiler radiates high heat to sear, caramelize, and finish foods just like a traditional grill rack
  • PRESET CONTROLS: Use microwave preset controls like Fries and Nuggets to make operation quick and easy, while ensuring precisely cooked results
Bestseller No. 5
LG 6.4 cu. ft. Smart Combi Wall Oven with Fan Convection, Air Fry in PrintProof Stainless Steel
  • Microwave convection oven saves time by air frying, baking, and roasting food fast and more evenly
  • SmoothTouch glass controls deliver sleek style and easy operation
  • 2-heavy-duty racks and 5-rack positions for cooking flexibility
SaleBestseller No. 6
TOSHIBA OptiChef Air Fryer Combo Countertop Microwave Oven with 2.4-Inch Color Screen, Origin Inverter Technology, Smart Sensor, Compatible with Alexa, 1100W, 1.3 Cu.Ft, Silver ML2-STC13SAIT(SS)
  • Advanced User Interface: Equipped with a 2.4-inch colorful screen with an intuitive user interface that is highly responsive and easy to operate, making complex cooking tasks simple and more accessible.
  • ChefFry Plus: Features a top fan and heating element that replicates an air fryer oven, allowing for healthier cooking options.
  • Intuitive Humidity Sensor: Built-in sensor ensures even heating and retains moisture for perfectly cooked dishes every time.
  • Origin Inverter: Ensures even cooking, precise temperature control, better textures, juicier meats, and enhanced flavor preservation. It also reduces cooking time and energy consumption to get your meals on the dinner table more quickly.
  • Dimensions: This 1.3 cubic foot microwave easily accommodates a 13-inch pizza or a whole chicken. Overall measurements (W x D x H): 21.8 x 19.4 x 12.8 inches; cavity dimensions (W x D x H): 14.5 x 16.4 x 9.3 inches. Delivers 1100W of output power, 1250 input power.
Bestseller No. 7
Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave, Air Fryer and Convection Oven, Brushed Stainless Steel
  • 3-IN-1 APPLIANCE: Combines Air Fryer, Convection Oven and Microwave into one versatile kitchen appliance; Create French fries with Air Fry function; Enjoy chocolate brownies with Convection Oven function; Defrost delicious soup with Inverter Microwave
  • ELEMENT IQ SYSTEM: Smart algorithms steer power where and when it's needed to create a specifically tailored cooking environment; Enjoy crispy golden results and delicious meals with Air Fry and Bake functions; Power: 1200 W - Convection Input Power
  • FAST COMBI & COOK FROM FROZEN FUNCTIONS: Cook dishes faster than traditional ovens with Fast Combi, which combines Convection Oven, Grilling and Microwave; Cook from Frozen achieves precisely cooked results from frozen; All in one countertop appliance
  • POWER SMOOTHING INVERTER: Automatically adjust intensity and deliver smooth, even power when you need more or less; Breville appliance reheats pizza slices, soup and lasagna with precision; Defrost meats and meals without overheating or drying out edges
  • SMART COOK, SMART REHEAT & SMART DEFROST: 19 built-in smart presets put all the power at your fingertips; Smooth, low temperature delivers heat evenly without overheating and drying out, allowing you to cook, reheat and defrost your favorite dishes
Bestseller No. 8
Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, Smart Sensor, Convection, Mute Function, Position Memory 13.6" Turntable, 1.5 Cu Ft, 1000W, Silver, ML-EC42P(SS)
  • 4-in-1 Multifuntional Countertop Microwave One microwave with multi-functions of microwave, air fry, convection, combination cooking (microwave plus convection) can fulfill more usages
  • Healthy Air Fryer Combo Enjoy your wholesome fried food with original taste but less fat with healthy air fry
  • One Kitchen Appliance, Better Texture Combines microwave and convection cooking in one appliance, with auto bake, defrosting and auto roast menus. Also with pre-programmed sensor menu for optimum result of popular foods like frozen pizza, vegetables and more
  • Large Capacity for a Family Size 13.6inch removable turntable can fit a whole roasted chicken, 12-inch pizza
  • Stylish Appearance: Stainless steel finish (color of door frame is stainless steel, enclosure is black) with easy to clean stainless steel interior

The Essential Buying Guide for Your Microwave and Oven Combo

Choosing a microwave and oven combo unit can save space and offer great cooking flexibility. These appliances combine the speed of a microwave with the baking power of a traditional oven. To help you pick the best one, we break down what you need to know.

Key Features to Look For

The right features make cooking easier and more fun. Look closely at these important functions:

  • Combination Modes: The best units let you use both functions at once. This means you can cook food quickly (microwave) and brown it nicely (oven/broiler) at the same time. This saves a lot of cooking time.
  • Inverter Technology: Microwaves with inverter technology provide steady, even power. This heats food more uniformly than older models that cycle the power on and off.
  • Convection Cooking: A true oven combo needs a convection fan. This fan circulates hot air, which helps baked goods rise better and cooks meals more evenly than a standard microwave.
  • Capacity and Size: Measure your counter space carefully. Larger capacity units (1.5 cubic feet and up) let you cook bigger items, like a small turkey or a full casserole dish.
  • Pre-set Programs: Smart settings for popcorn, pizza, or defrosting take the guesswork out of cooking.

Important Materials and Build Quality

The materials used in the construction affect how long the appliance lasts and how easy it is to clean.

Interior Construction

The interior walls matter a lot. Stainless steel interiors are usually the best choice. They handle high oven temperatures well and wipe clean easily. Some cheaper models use painted metal, which can scratch or chip over time, especially under high heat.

Exterior Finish

Most modern units feature a fingerprint-resistant stainless steel or black stainless finish. This keeps your kitchen looking tidy. Make sure the door hinges feel strong; they should open and close smoothly without wobbling.

Factors That Affect Quality and Performance

Not all combos perform equally. Several factors separate the good units from the great ones.

Power Output (Wattage)

For microwave cooking, higher wattage (usually 1000W or more) means faster reheating. For the oven side, consistent temperature control is key. If the oven temperature swings wildly, your cakes will not turn out right.

Cleaning Features

A steam clean function significantly reduces scrubbing time. If you plan to use the oven often, look for easy-to-remove racks and a non-stick coating inside.

Noise Level

Since these units often sit on the counter, noise matters. Read reviews regarding the fan noise during convection cooking. Very loud fans can disrupt a quiet kitchen.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about how you will use this appliance every day. A combo unit is perfect for certain situations.

Small Kitchens and Apartments

If you lack space for both a full-sized oven and a microwave, this combo is a fantastic solution. You get full oven functionality without sacrificing counter space.

Quick Meals and Entertaining

Use the combination mode when hosting guests. You can quickly defrost and partially cook a large item using the microwave power, then switch to convection to finish it with a crispy, browned exterior. This cuts total cooking time dramatically.

A good combo unit offers flexibility. It acts as a powerful secondary oven during holidays or as your main cooking appliance year-round.


Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Microwave Oven Combos

Q: Can I use metal pans in my oven combo?

A: Yes, you can use metal pans, but only when you are using the traditional oven or convection mode. Never put metal inside when using the microwave function, as this causes sparks.

Q: Is a convection microwave the same as a combo unit?

A: Often, yes. A convection microwave includes a heating element and a fan that allows it to bake like a small oven. Most true combos offer both microwave and convection/oven modes.

Q: How much counter space do I need?

A: You need space for the unit itself, plus extra room around the sides and back for ventilation. Check the manual, but plan for 4-6 inches of clearance on all vented sides.

Q: Do these save energy compared to two separate appliances?

A: They can save energy because the combination mode cooks food faster overall. However, running the convection oven uses similar energy to a small toaster oven.

Q: What is the typical lifespan of a combo unit?

A: With regular use, a quality microwave oven combo should last between 8 and 12 years. Good maintenance helps it last longer.

Q: How do I clean the interior effectively?

A: For general cleaning, place a bowl of water with lemon slices inside and run the microwave for a few minutes. The steam loosens grime, making it easy to wipe down later.

Q: Does the microwave cook slower when the convection oven is heating up?

A: When using the combination mode, the microwave power usually remains strong, but the overall cooking time is dictated by the slower oven heating process.

Q: Are these hard to install?

A: Most countertop models just need to be plugged into a standard grounded outlet. Over-the-range models require mounting, which is best left to someone experienced.

Q: What is the difference between microwave and grill functions?

A: The microwave cooks by exciting water molecules, heating food from the inside out. The grill uses a direct heating element from the top to brown and crisp the surface, similar to a broiler.

Q: Should I buy a separate microwave and oven instead?

A: If you cook large meals often or need two full-sized ovens, separate appliances are better. If space is limited and you want versatility, the combo is the smarter choice.