The best microwave oven combo offers incredible cooking flexibility and saves valuable counter space for chefs of all levels. These versatile appliances combine the rapid heating of a microwave with the browning and baking capabilities of a convection oven. With so many high-quality options available, choosing the right one is crucial to maximize your kitchen efficiency and avoid performance compromises.
A poorly matched unit can lead to cooking frustration and wasted potential. To help you navigate this market, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 microwave oven combos, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your culinary needs and kitchen layout.
The best microwave oven combo offers versatile cooking functions, with many models integrating air frying and convection capabilities for maximum utility. For instance, the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven provides microwave, air fry, combi, bake, and roast modes, while the TOSHIBA OptiChef PRO MAX stands out with its advanced, user-friendly touchscreen interface for simplified operation. Consider models like the FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft and Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave if multi-functionality is a priority.
Best Microwave Oven Combo: Top Picks Compared
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry, Combi, Bake, Roast, Best for: Ultimate kitchen multitasker | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | TOSHIBA OptiChef PRO MAX Air Fryer Combo Microwave Oven with Best for: Pro air fryer user | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave, Digital Air Fryer, Convection Oven, Best for: Space-conscious cooks | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave, Air Fryer and Convection Best for: All-in-one convenience | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Air Fryer Combo, Time-Saving 20 Best for: Versatile home cooking | Check Price |
How We Picked
To identify the best microwave oven combo, we prioritized build quality, real-world performance, durability, and safety. Standout features, like the advanced interfaces on the Toshiba OptiChef PRO MAX and comprehensive multi-cooking options found in the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1, were key differentiators. We ruled out basic microwaves lacking convection or air fryer capabilities.
Models offering versatile cooking modes such as bake, roast, and grill, like the Frigidaire and Breville Combi Wave, were assessed for their all-around value and user-friendliness. Ultimately, appliances excelling in consistent results and robust construction earned top consideration.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Beyond Just Microwaving: Understanding Combi Functions
When looking at microwave oven combos, the combi settings are key. These blend microwave power with convection or grilling, unlocking versatility. For instance, the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 and GE 4-in-1 models offer multiple combi options like Bake and Roast.
Understanding what each function truly provides, from achieving crispy exteriors with convection on the Frigidaire to faster cooking with microwave-grill combinations, will help you maximize your appliance’s potential beyond simple reheating.
Convection vs. Air Fryer in Combos
Many combo ovens merge microwave functions with convection and air fryer capabilities, but they aren’t always the same. Convection circulates hot air for even baking and roasting, as seen in the Breville BMO870BSS and GE 4-in-An air fryer feature, highlighted by the Toshiba OptiChef PRO MAX and Frigidaire, uses rapid air circulation to create crispy textures with less oil.
Differentiating these allows you to choose an appliance that excels at the specific crisping or baking results you desire.
1. BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry, Combi, Bake, Roast,
Best for: Five-in-one cooking for busy home cooks.
With 900 watts of microwave power and 10 cooking levels, this BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 unit allows swift reheating and precise cooking for diverse ingredients, plus additional functions like air frying and convection baking.
This 1.1 cubic foot appliance integrates microwave, air fryer, combi (grill/convection), bake, and roast modes. It features 7 auto menus for common items and 11 air fry presets, offering versatile meal preparation in a compact design.
Pros
- 900-watt microwave output for fast cooking
- 10 distinct power levels for control
- 5 versatile cooking functions in one unit
- 11 air fry presets for popular items
Cons
- Not smart home compatible, requiring manual operation for all functions.
This BLACK+DECKER model is ideal for individuals and small families seeking a multi-functional countertop appliance. It simplifies meal preparation with its array of cooking modes and auto programs.
2. TOSHIBA OptiChef PRO MAX Air Fryer Combo Microwave Oven with
Best for: Intuitive touchscreen for effortless meal prep.
The TOSHIBA OptiChef PRO MAX features a 2.4-inch colorful, responsive touchscreen interface, simplifying complex cooking tasks with 25 pre-programmed options for easier operation.
This 1.7 cubic foot oven boasts 1100 watts of power and a ChefFry Plus system that mimics an air fryer. Its humidity sensor ensures optimal moisture retention, while the Origin Inverter provides even heating for consistent results.
Pros
- 1100-watt power for efficient cooking
- 2.4-inch responsive color touchscreen
- Intuitive humidity sensor for moisture control
- 25 pre-programmed cooking options
Cons
- Only features 5 specific power levels, potentially limiting fine-tuning for some recipes.
This TOSHIBA OptiChef is perfect for tech-savvy home cooks who appreciate ease of use and advanced features. It’s well-suited for those looking for a central appliance to handle a variety of cooking methods.
3. FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave, Digital Air Fryer, Convection Oven,
Best for: Powerful oven and microwave combination.
Boasting a 1000W convection oven and 900W microwave, this FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft unit delivers robust cooking performance for baking, roasting, and reheating.
This 1.2 cubic foot oven offers air frying capabilities for healthier meals, alongside microwave, convection bake, and roast functions. It includes 10 power levels and 5 one-touch cook menus for convenience.
Pros
- 1000-watt convection oven for faster baking
- 900-watt microwave output
- Up to 70% less fat with air frying
- 10 distinct power levels
Cons
- Operates on 110 Volts, which may lead to slightly slower cooking times compared to 120V models.
This FRIGIDAIRE model is a great choice for smaller kitchens needing a powerful and versatile oven. It suits individuals or couples who enjoy baking and roasting alongside microwave convenience.
4. Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave, Air Fryer and Convection
Best for: Smart cooking with Element IQ for precise results.
The Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave features an Element IQ system that intelligently directs power where and when it’s needed, ensuring optimal results for air frying, convection baking, and microwaving.
This 1.0 cubic foot 3-in-1 appliance combines air fryer, convection oven, and microwave functions, powered by a 1400-watt element and 1200-watt microwave. It offers 10 power levels and specialized smart cook, defrost, and reheat programs.
Pros
- 1400-watt element for powerful convection cooking
- 1200-watt microwave output
- Element IQ system for precise power delivery
- 3-in-1 functionality (Air Fry, Convection, Microwave)
Cons
- Uses a combination of buttons and a jog dial for control, which might be less intuitive for some users.
This Breville Combi Wave is ideal for home cooks who value precision and versatility in a single appliance. It’s perfect for preparing a wide range of dishes, from crispy fries to baked goods and quick meals.
5. Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Air Fryer Combo, Time-Saving 20
Best for: App-enhanced cooking for ultimate convenience.
Powered by the Panasonic Kitchen+ app, this 4-in-1 HomeChef microwave simplifies meal preparation by allowing users to select dishes and wirelessly send cooking instructions to the oven.
This 1.2 cubic foot countertop oven integrates microwave, broiler, air fryer, and convection functions, operating at 1000 watts. It offers 7 power levels and 32 auto-cook programs, designed for a quicker and more efficient cooking experience.
Pros
- 1000-watt microwave power
- Integrates microwave, broiler, air fryer, and convection
- App connectivity for guided cooking
- 32 auto-cook programs
Cons
- Relies on app connectivity for full function utilization, which may not suit users preferring a standalone appliance.
The Panasonic HomeChef is designed for busy households that embrace smart technology for easier meal management. It’s perfect for those who want guided cooking and a versatile appliance for daily meals and air-fried favorites.
6. Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In with Inverter Technology
Best for: High-power inverter microwave with turbo defrost.
Delivering 1200 watts of cooking power, this Panasonic microwave features patented Inverter Technology for a seamless stream of heat, ensuring evenly prepared food without overcooking.
This 1.2 cubic foot stainless steel model includes 1480 watts of power and a 340mm turntable for maximum cooking surface. Its Advanced Inverter Turbo Defrost significantly reduces defrosting time for various food types.
Pros
- 1200-watt high power output
- Inverter Technology for even cooking
- Advanced Inverter Turbo Defrost
- 1.2 cu ft capacity with 340mm turntable
Cons
- Primarily a microwave, lacking integrated air frying or convection oven capabilities.
This Panasonic NN-SN686S is best for individuals or families primarily needing a powerful and efficient microwave. Its inverter technology is ideal for those who prioritize consistent results and faster defrosting.
7. GE 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave, 1.6 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts, 300
Best for: Spacious over-the-range microwave with venting.
With a substantial 1.6 cu ft capacity and 1000 watts of cooking power, this GE over-the-range microwave offers ample space and efficiency for a variety of meal preparations.
This microwave features convenient one-touch cooking controls and both auto and time defrost options for easy meal preparation. Its built-in two-speed, 300-CFM venting system effectively removes smoke and odors from the cooktop below.
Pros
- 1.6 cu ft capacity for large dishes
- 1000-watt cooking power
- Built-in 300-CFM venting system
- Auto and time defrost functions
Cons
- Limited to microwave heating, lacking air frying or convection functions.
This GE over-the-range model is perfect for kitchens where space is a premium and integrated ventilation is needed. It suits families looking for a robust microwave with convenient cooking features and efficient exhaust.
8. Midea 4-in-1 Multifunctional Microwave Steam Oven, Combo Air Fryer, Steamer
Best for: Advanced steam and air frying capabilities.
This Midea 4-in-1 Multifunctional Microwave Steam Oven utilizes XpressSteam and XpressFry technologies, alongside microwave functions, offering versatile cooking with 32 pre-set menus and 8 additional modes.
Operating at 1600 watts, this oven combines steam, air fry, and microwave functions, featuring inverter technology for fast and uniform heating. The 32 available programs accommodate a wide range of culinary needs, from defrosting to deep cleaning.
Pros
- 1600-watt high power output
- Combines steam, air fry, and microwave
- Inverter technology for uniform heating
- 32 cooking programs including steaming
Cons
- Features only 5 specific power levels, which may restrict fine-tuning for advanced cooking techniques.
The Midea 4-in-1 Steam Oven is ideal for adventurous home cooks looking to explore steaming and air frying alongside microwave capabilities. It’s a comprehensive solution for those seeking to minimize kitchen appliances.
9. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1,150-watt Capacity, 1.6 Cubic Ft., 8
Best for: High-wattage countertop microwave with sensor cooking.
With 1150 watts of power, this GE countertop microwave heats and cooks food rapidly, while its 1.6 cu ft capacity accommodates large dishes and family-sized meals.
This microwave is equipped with advanced sensor cooking controls that automatically adjust time and power for optimal results, preventing overcooking. It includes weight and time defrost functions and a two-step child lock for safety.
Pros
- 1150-watt power for fast cooking
- 1.6 cu ft interior capacity
- Sensor cooking for automatic adjustments
- Two-step child safety lock
Cons
- Lacks air fry or convection oven functions, limiting it to microwave cooking.
This GE countertop microwave is well-suited for busy households that need a powerful and capacious microwave for everyday use. Its sensor cooking feature is helpful for achieving consistent results without constant monitoring.
10. GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection
Best for: Versatile 4-in-1 with air fry, convection, and broil.
This GE 4-in-1 countertop microwave combines air fry, convection, and broil functions with microwave capabilities, offering a comprehensive cooking solution in a 1.0 cu ft capacity.
Operating at 1050 watts, this oven features a convection setting with a special rack for even heat distribution and a broiler for searing and caramelizing. The air fryer function allows for healthier, crispier versions of favorite foods.
Pros
- 1050-watt microwave power
- Integrated air fryer for crisping
- Convection for even baking and roasting
- Broiling function for searing
Cons
- Uses 1050 Watts for both microwave and convection, which might be less powerful than dedicated convection ovens.
This GE 4-in-1 microwave is perfect for individuals or couples wanting multiple cooking functions in a compact countertop format. It’s ideal for those who enjoy experimenting with air frying and roasting alongside quick microwave meals.
Microwave Combo Utility Hinges on Air Fryer Scope
When selecting a best microwave oven combo, the true differentiator isn’t the microwave wattage or capacity, but the breadth and depth of its air frying capabilities. A unit like the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry, Combi, Bake, Roast, offers a basic air fry function, suitable for light crisping and reheating. However, if your primary motivation for seeking this all-in-one solution is to replicate the results of a dedicated air fryer, you will invariably find yourself wanting more.
The FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave, Digital Air Fryer, Convection Oven, provides a more integrated approach, but it’s models such as the Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave, Air Fryer and Convection, and the Midea 4-in-1 Multifunctional Microwave Steam Oven, Combo Air Fryer, Steamer, that illustrate the spectrum of potential. These latter appliances emphasize the air fry component with more robust fan systems and often dedicated cookware, aiming to achieve a level of crispness and texture comparable to standalone units.
The critical distinction lies in how the appliance manages circulated hot air. For instance, while the Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Air Fryer Combo, Time-Saving 20, and the GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection both list air frying as a function, their airflow dynamics and heating element placement heavily influence the outcome. A low-power air fry setting on a microwave can feel like little more than a convection oven with exaggerated fan speed, failing to deliver the signature crunch for items like fries or chicken wings.
Those expecting true air frying performance should look for appliances that explicitly detail their air frying technology, perhaps even contrasting it with their convection modes, as seen in some higher-end models that offer distinct settings for each. This isn’t simply about adding another feature; it’s about realizing the full promise of reduced fat cooking via intense, rapid air circulation.
The complexity of the user interface also plays a role, but it’s secondary to the core air frying performance. While the TOSHIBA OptiChef PRO MAX Air Fryer Combo Microwave Oven with its colorful screen aims for user-friendliness, it’s the underlying engineering that determines if that colorful screen is displaying cooking options you’ll genuinely use for achieving crispy results. Many standard microwaves, like the Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In with Inverter Technology or the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1,150-watt Capacity, 1.6 Cubic Ft., focus solely on microwave functions and lack the specialized heating and airflow necessary for effective air frying.
The same can be said for the GE 30 Over-the-Range Microwave, 1.6 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts, which prioritizes capacity and power for conventional microwave tasks.
When the air frying is an afterthought, the combined appliance becomes merely a microwave with an added, underperforming mode.
Ultimately, the most successful integration of air frying into a microwave requires a commitment to that specific cooking method, not just a casual inclusion. Buyers seeking an authentic air frying experience alongside microwave functionality should prioritize models where air frying is a prominent, well-engineered feature rather than a supplementary function. The Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave, Air Fryer and Convection stands out for those who prioritize genuine air frying results from their combo unit.
What to Look For in the Best Microwave Oven Combo
Cooking
The 1.2 cubic foot capacity of the Frigidaire Microwave, Digital Air Fryer, Convection Oven offers ample space for family-sized meals, highlighting the importance of considering oven size for your culinary needs. Beyond sheer volume, the true value of these appliances lies in their versatility, a feature exemplified by the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven, which seamlessly transitions between microwave, air fryer, combi (grill/convection), bake, and roast functions. Similarly, the Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave is a true 3-in-1 powerhouse, merging air frying, convection baking, and microwaving into a single unit.
For those seeking even more specialized cooking, the Midea 4-in-1 Multifunctional Microwave Steam Oven boasts XpressSteam, XpressFry, and Xpress
Quick Best Microwave Oven Combo Buying Checklist
- Cooking Functions: Verify it offers both microwave and convection/grill settings for versatile meal prep.
- Capacity (Cubic Feet): Check the interior size to ensure it fits your typical meal portions and common dishes.
- Wattage: Look for at least 1000 watts for efficient and quick cooking performance.
- Installation Type: Decide between countertop, over-the-range, or built-in models based on your kitchen space and preference.
- Smart Features: Consider touch controls, interior lighting, and pre-programmed settings for ease of use.
- Ease of Cleaning: Prioritize models with easy-to-wipe interiors, removable turntables, and fingerprint-resistant exteriors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Main Benefits Of Using A Microwave Oven Combo Compared To Separate Units?
Microwave oven combo units offer significant benefits over separate appliances, primarily by maximizing kitchen space and streamlining functionality. This integration reduces the overall footprint, making them ideal for smaller kitchens, while often providing the convenience of a microwave and a convection oven in a single, energy-efficient appliance.
How Much Space Do Microwave Oven Combos Typically Require, And Are There Different Installation Options?
Microwave oven combos typically require a dedicated space of 24 inches wide by 20 inches deep, with varying heights depending on the model. Installation options include built-in under cabinetry, freestanding on a countertop, or integrated within custom cabinetry.
What Types Of Cooking Functions Should I Look For In A Best Microwave Oven Combo To Maximize Its Versatility?
To maximize versatility in a microwave oven combo
Are There Specific Cleaning And Maintenance Considerations For A Microwave Oven Combo I Should Be Aware Of?
Yes, microwave oven combos require careful cleaning and maintenance due to their dual functionality. Stainless steel interiors need non-abrasive cleaners to prevent scratching, while convection components necessitate ensuring proper ventilation and avoiding moisture buildup. Always unplug the unit before cleaning any internal or external surfaces gently.
Which Microwave Oven Combo Models Offer The Best Performance For Baking And Convection Cooking In Addition To Microwaving?
Microwave oven combo models that offer the best performance for baking and convection cooking, in addition to microwaving, typically feature robust heating elements and precise temperature controls allowing for even browning and consistent results. Look for models with dedicated convection settings and ample internal capacity designed for versatile culinary tasks beyond basic reheating.
Final Words
Investing in the best microwave oven combo unlocks a world of culinary efficiency and versatility for your kitchen. These innovative appliances seamlessly blend speed with advanced cooking capabilities, transforming meal preparation from a chore into a joy. Embrace the convenience and expand your cooking horizons today – your future self will thank you for this kitchen upgrade.