8 Best Combination Microwave Ovens of 2025
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Cooking versatile, restaurant-quality meals at home without cluttering your kitchen with multiple appliances is a challenge many face. Standard microwaves lack browning and crisping power, while full ovens are inefficient for small meals. The right solution? A combination microwave oven that merges microwave speed with convection baking, air frying, and smart cooking technologies—all in one compact unit.
We analyzed over 50 models, testing performance, ease of use, and value to identify the best combination microwave ovens for real kitchens. Our picks balance power, capacity, smart features, and cooking precision—backed by hands-on testing and user feedback. Whether you’re reheating, baking, or air frying, these top performers deliver consistent, delicious results. Keep reading to find your ideal match.
Best Options at a Glance
Panasonic HomeChef Connect Smart Microwave
Best Smart Connectivity
- 4-in-1
- App Connected
- 1.2 cu. ft.
- 1000W
- 22″W x 13.4″H x 17.7″D
Gasland 24″ Built-in Microwave Combo
Best for Wall Installation
- 1.6 Cu. Ft
- 1000W
- Built-in
- Microwave, Convection
- Touch Control
KoolMore Built-in Microwave Combo Oven
Best Built-in Design
- 24 Inch
- 1000 Watt
- Stainless Steel
- Touch Control
- Soft Close
TOSHIBA Inverter Air Fry Combo Microwave
Best Even Cooking with Sensor
- 1.0 cu.ft/30QT
- 1000W microwave, 1800W convection
- Microwave, Air Fryer, Convection, Broil, Toast, Yogurt
- Inverter, 360° air circulation, Humidity Sensor
- 27 Auto Menu & 47 Recipes
Toshiba 4-in-1 Air Fry Microwave
Best Large Capacity
- 1.5 Cu Ft
- Microwave, Air Fry, Convection, Combo
- 1000W
- 13.6″
- Black Stainless Steel
TOSHIBA P05 Air Fryer Combo Microwave
Best Overall
- 1.3 Cu.Ft
- 1100W
- 2.4-inch
- Origin Inverter
- Alexa, TSmartLife APP
BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Air Fry Microwave
Best Value Under $200
- 0.9 cu. ft.
- 900 Watts
- 5-in-1
- 11 Air Fry
- Child-Lock
GE Air Fry Convection Microwave Oven
Best Budget Friendly
- 1.0 Cu Ft
- 1050W
- Air Fry, Convection, Broil
- Compact Stainless Steel
- Glass
Best Combination Microwave Ovens Review
How to Choose the Right Combination Microwave Oven
Choosing the right combination microwave oven involves considering several key features to ensure it meets your cooking needs and integrates seamlessly into your kitchen. These appliances offer versatility, combining microwave, convection, and often air frying capabilities, but understanding their nuances is crucial.
Capacity & Dimensions
The size of a combination microwave oven is a primary consideration. Capacity, typically measured in cubic feet, dictates the size of dishes you can cook. A 1.0 – 1.5 cubic foot model is generally sufficient for individuals or couples, while larger families may benefit from 1.6 cubic feet or more. Beyond internal capacity, carefully measure the space where you intend to install the microwave. Consider height, width, and depth, accounting for ventilation requirements. Larger capacity models are great for families or those who frequently cook whole meals in the microwave, but they take up more counter space.
Cooking Technologies: Beyond Basic Microwaving
Combination microwave ovens excel because of their added cooking technologies. Convection cooking is a standout feature. Unlike standard microwaving, convection uses a fan to circulate hot air, mimicking a traditional oven. This results in more even cooking, browning, and crisping – ideal for baking, roasting, and reheating foods like pizza or casseroles. Air frying is another popular addition. This technology uses rapid air circulation to cook foods with little to no oil, offering a healthier alternative to deep frying. Models with both convection and air frying provide the greatest flexibility. The presence and quality of these technologies significantly impact the oven’s ability to replace other appliances.
Power Levels & Sensor Cooking
Wattage is a key indicator of a microwave’s power. Higher wattage (1000W or more) generally translates to faster cooking times. However, power isn’t everything; sensor cooking is equally important. Sensor cooking uses built-in sensors to detect the moisture levels in food and automatically adjust cooking time and power, preventing overcooking or undercooking. This feature is particularly useful for reheating leftovers or cooking pre-programmed meals. A wider range of power levels also provides more control over the cooking process, allowing for delicate simmering or rapid boiling.
Smart Features & User Interface
Modern combination microwave ovens increasingly incorporate smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity and app control. These features allow you to remotely control the oven, access recipes, and receive notifications. The user interface is also critical. A clear, intuitive control panel with well-labeled buttons and a responsive touchscreen (if applicable) makes operation easier. Consider whether you prefer a traditional dial control or a more modern digital interface.
Other features to consider include:
- Pre-set cooking programs: Convenient for common dishes.
- Defrost settings: Speed and effectiveness of defrosting.
- Interior material: Easy-to-clean surfaces.
- Child lock: Safety feature to prevent accidental operation.
- Turntable: Ensures even cooking, some models have turntable on/off option.
Combination Microwave Oven Comparison
| Product | Type | Capacity (cu. ft) | Wattage (Microwave) | Air Fry? | Convection? | Smart Connectivity? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOSHIBA P05 Air Fryer Combo Microwave | Combination | 1.3 | 1100W | Yes | Yes | Yes (TSmartLife APP, Alexa) | Best Overall |
| GE Air Fry Convection Microwave Oven | Combination | 1.0 | 1050W | Yes | Yes | No | Best Budget Friendly |
| Toshiba 4-in-1 Air Fry Microwave | Combination | N/A | 1000W | Yes | Yes | No | Best Large Capacity |
| BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Air Fry Microwave | Combination | N/A | 900W | Yes | Yes | No | Best Value Under $200 |
| Panasonic HomeChef Connect Smart Microwave | Combination | N/A | N/A | Yes | Yes | Yes (Kitchen+ App) | Best Smart Connectivity |
| TOSHIBA Inverter Air Fry Combo Microwave | Combination | N/A | 1800W (Convection) / 1000W (Microwave) | Yes | Yes | No | Best Even Cooking with Sensor |
| KoolMore Built-in Microwave Combo Oven | Combination | N/A | N/A | No | Yes | No | Best Built-in Design |
| Gasland 24″ Built-in Microwave Combo | Combination | N/A | N/A | No | Yes | No | Best for Wall Installation |
How We Tested Combination Microwave Ovens
Our evaluation of the best combination microwave ovens relies on a data-driven approach, combining comprehensive feature analysis with real-world performance assessment. We began by compiling a dataset of over 50 models, focusing on key specifications like wattage, capacity, convection power, and available cooking modes (air fry, sensor cook). We then cross-referenced this data with user reviews from major retailers (Amazon, Best Buy, Home Depot) and independent testing sites like Consumer Reports and Wirecutter, analyzing sentiment and identifying recurring themes – both positive and negative – regarding usability, reliability, and cooking performance.
Where possible, we conducted in-house testing, focusing on convection baking (cake, cookies), air frying (french fries, chicken wings), and sensor cooking accuracy with common foods like potatoes and frozen entrees. We measured cooking times, temperature consistency, and browning evenness. Comparative analyses were performed, directly pitting similar models against each other based on price, features, and performance metrics. This included evaluating the effectiveness of smart features and the intuitiveness of the user interface. Our findings prioritize combination microwave ovens offering a balance of functionality, performance, and value, ensuring recommendations align with diverse cooking needs. We also considered long-term reliability data and warranty information to assess the overall ownership experience.
FAQs
What is a combination microwave oven and how is it different from a standard microwave?
A combination microwave oven offers multiple cooking functions – typically microwave, convection, and air frying – in a single appliance. Unlike standard microwaves that primarily heat food using microwaves, combination ovens utilize convection technology (hot air circulation) for baking and roasting, and air frying for crispy results. This makes them more versatile than traditional microwaves.
What size combination microwave oven do I need?
The ideal size depends on your household size and cooking habits. A 1.0-1.5 cubic foot model suits individuals or couples, while 1.6 cubic feet or larger is better for families. Always measure your available space before purchasing, considering height, width, and depth for proper ventilation. Selecting the right combination microwave oven capacity is crucial.
Are smart features on combination microwave ovens worth the extra cost?
Smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity and app control offer convenience, allowing remote operation, recipe access, and notifications. However, they aren’t essential for everyone. If you value convenience and enjoy using smart home technology, they can be worthwhile. Otherwise, a model without these features may offer better value.
How important is wattage when choosing a combination microwave oven?
Wattage indicates cooking power. Higher wattage (1000W+) generally means faster cooking. However, sensor cooking and convection capabilities are also vital. Look for a balance of high wattage and smart features like sensor cooking for optimal performance from your combination microwave oven.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the best combination microwave oven depends on your individual needs and priorities. Consider your cooking style, household size, and desired features – from convection and air frying to smart connectivity – to narrow down your options. Investing in a model that aligns with these factors will ensure years of versatile and convenient cooking.
By carefully evaluating capacity, power levels, and additional features like sensor cooking, you can confidently choose a combination microwave oven that simplifies meal preparation and expands your culinary possibilities. Don’t hesitate to explore the comparison chart and FAQs to find the perfect fit for your kitchen and lifestyle.
