The 10 Best Countertop Microwave Oven Combo of 2025, Tested & Reviewed

Source: Amazon

Best Convection Power: TOSHIBA 6-in-1 Inverter Countertop Microwave Oven Healthy Air Fryer Combo

Pros

• High 1800W Wattage

• Convection Cooking Mode

• Child Safety Lock

• Stainless Steel Interior

Cons

• Relatively Heavy

This Toshiba countertop microwave combines robust 1800 watts of power with convection cooking, allowing for versatile meal preparation beyond standard reheating or defrosting. Its 0.9 cubic feet capacity suits moderate kitchen needs, while the stainless steel interior ensures durability and easy cleaning. The included grill function adds to its versatility, making it suitable for various cooking styles. Safety is enhanced with a child lock feature, important for family environments. Though the unit weighs nearly 29 pounds, which may affect portability, the solid build and advanced cooking options make it a reliable choice for users seeking powerful performance in a compact design.

Best High-Power Microwave: TOSHIBA 6-in-1 Inverter Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo

Pros

• Powerful 1800W Wattage

• Spacious 26.93-Quart Capacity

• Durable Stainless Steel Construction

• Convenient Defrost Function

Cons

• Heavy Weight

This Toshiba microwave model offers a substantial 26.93-quart capacity combined with a strong 1800-watt power output, suitable for efficiently cooking or reheating larger meals. Its stainless steel exterior and interior enhance durability and ease of cleaning, making it a practical choice for everyday kitchen use. The inclusion of a turntable ensures even cooking, while the defrost feature adds flexibility for handling frozen foods. Weighing nearly 34 pounds, the unit is relatively heavy for countertop appliances, which may impact portability, but its robust build and powerful performance make it a solid option for users prioritizing capacity and cooking efficiency.

Best Air Fryer Combo: TOSHIBA 7-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo

Pros

• Convection Cooking Mode

• Includes Air Fryer Basket

• Heated Dry Feature

• Spacious 1 Cubic Foot Capacity

Cons

• Lower Wattage (1000W)

This Toshiba countertop oven offers a versatile cooking experience with convection technology paired with an included air fryer basket, making it a multifunctional appliance suited for healthier frying and baking. Its 1 cubic foot capacity accommodates a variety of meal sizes, supported by multiple racks and trays for flexible cooking arrangements. The heated dry feature enhances drying efficiency, useful for certain recipes or reheating tasks. Constructed with stainless steel inside and out, it combines durability with easy maintenance. While the 1000-watt power is lower than some competitors, the appliance compensates with versatility and accessory inclusion, appealing to users looking for an all-in-one kitchen solution.

Best 3-in-1 Cooking: Toshiba EC042A5C-BS Microwave Oven with Convection Function

Pros

• Combines Microwave, Convection, and Combi Modes

• Large 1.5 Cubic Feet Capacity

• Pre-programmed Sensor Menus

• Mute Function for Quiet Operation

Cons

• Bulky Size

This Toshiba countertop microwave excels with its multifunctional design, integrating microwave, convection, and combi cooking modes to deliver versatile meal preparation options. The large 1.5 cubic feet capacity accommodates family-sized dishes, such as a whole roasted chicken or 12-inch pizza, aided by a 13.6-inch removable turntable. Advanced convenience features include auto bake, defrost, and auto roast menus, alongside pre-programmed sensor options that optimize cooking for popular foods. Additional touches like a mute function and multistage cooking enhance user control and kitchen comfort. Its sizable dimensions make it less suitable for smaller spaces, but its wide range of functions and capacity make it ideal for families seeking a multifunctional appliance.

Best 4-in-1 Functionality: Toshiba 4-in-1 ML-EC42P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven

Pros

• Microwave, Air Fryer, Convection, and Combo Cooking

• Large 1.5 Cubic Feet Capacity

• Child Safety Lock

• Pre-programmed Sensor Menus

Cons

• Moderate 1000W Power

This Toshiba countertop microwave stands out with its versatile 4-in-1 design, combining microwave, air fryer, convection, and combination cooking modes to meet diverse culinary needs. The spacious 1.5 cubic feet interior accommodates family-sized meals, supported by a 13.6-inch removable turntable suitable for dishes like whole roasted chicken or 12-inch pizza. It features convenient preset menus for auto bake, defrost, and auto roast, optimized by sensor technology for consistent results. Safety is enhanced by a child lock, while the sleek black stainless steel exterior and easy-to-clean interior add to its appeal. Despite a moderate 1000-watt power rating, the unit delivers broad functionality with thoughtful features like a mute option and multistage cooking, making it a practical choice for home kitchens seeking multi-function appliances.

1. Size and Capacity

Consider the available countertop space and the capacity needed to accommodate your cooking needs. Microwave oven combos come in various sizes, so ensure the dimensions fit your kitchen layout while providing ample interior space for cooking different dishes.

2. Cooking Power and Efficiency

Check the wattage of both the microwave and oven components. Higher wattage typically translates to faster cooking times and more efficient heating. Look for models with adjustable power levels and convection settings for precise control over cooking temperatures and methods.

3. Cooking Modes and Features

Evaluate the range of cooking modes and features offered by the appliance. Ideally, it should include standard microwave functions like defrost, reheat, and quick cook settings. Additionally, look for oven features such as bake, roast, broil, and convection cooking for versatile meal preparation options.

4. Ease of Use and Programming

An intuitive control panel with clear labeling and user-friendly interfaces simplifies operation, especially for everyday tasks. Touchpad controls, preset cooking programs, and sensor technology enhance convenience and accuracy, ensuring consistent results with minimal effort.

5. Construction and Durability

Assess the build quality and durability of the appliance, considering materials, construction methods, and overall craftsmanship. Stainless steel exteriors and interiors are durable, resistant to corrosion, and easy to clean, ensuring longevity and hygiene in the kitchen.

6. Safety Features

Prioritize safety features to prevent accidents and ensure peace of mind during operation. Child lockout controls, automatic shut-off timers, and cool-touch exteriors minimize the risk of burns and injuries, particularly in households with children or elderly individuals.

7. Ventilation and Heat Dissipation

Proper ventilation is essential to prevent overheating and maintain optimal performance. Choose a microwave oven combo with adequate ventilation systems and sufficient clearance space around the appliance to dissipate heat effectively, reducing the risk of component damage or malfunction.

8. Energy Efficiency

Select energy-efficient models with features like LED lighting, eco-friendly modes, and energy-saving settings to minimize electricity consumption and reduce utility costs over time. Look for ENERGY STAR® certified appliances to ensure optimal efficiency and environmental sustainability.

9. Brand Reputation and Warranty

Research reputable brands known for producing high-quality kitchen appliances with reliable performance and customer support. Review warranty coverage, including parts and labor, to assess the level of protection and support provided by the manufacturer.

Whether a microwave oven combo is a good idea depends on your specific needs and preferences. Microwave oven combos combine the functionality of a microwave with that of a traditional oven, offering versatility in cooking options. They are particularly useful for kitchens with limited space, as they eliminate the need for separate appliances. Additionally, microwave oven combos can provide faster cooking times compared to conventional ovens. However, they tend to be more expensive than standalone microwaves or ovens, and the oven portion may have limited capacity compared to a full-size oven.

What is the difference between a microwave and a combination microwave?

The main difference between a microwave and a combination microwave is the additional cooking capabilities offered by the latter. While traditional microwaves are primarily designed for reheating and defrosting food using microwave radiation, combination microwaves incorporate additional heating methods such as convection and grilling. This allows combination microwaves to perform a wider range of cooking tasks, including baking, roasting, and browning, similar to a conventional oven.

Can a countertop microwave be used as a built-in?

In most cases, countertop microwaves are not designed to be used as built-in appliances. Built-in microwaves are specifically designed with ventilation and insulation requirements for installation into cabinetry or walls. Using a countertop microwave in a built-in capacity can pose safety hazards and may void the warranty. However, some manufacturers offer optional trim kits that allow certain countertop microwaves to be installed in a built-in configuration while ensuring proper ventilation and aesthetics.

Is there a combination microwave and oven?

Yes, there are combination microwave and oven units available on the market. These appliances offer the convenience of both microwave cooking and traditional oven baking in a single unit. Combination microwave ovens typically feature a microwave oven on top and a conventional oven or convection oven below. This allows users to quickly heat or cook food with the microwave function while also having the option to bake, roast, or grill using the oven portion.

Do combination microwave ovens use less electricity?

The electricity usage of combination microwave ovens can vary depending on factors such as the cooking methods used, the frequency of use, and the energy efficiency of the appliance. While combination microwave ovens offer versatility in cooking options, they may consume more electricity compared to standalone microwaves due to the additional heating elements and cooking functions. However, the energy efficiency of modern appliances has improved over time, and some combination microwave ovens are designed to be energy-efficient. It's advisable to check the energy ratings and specifications of individual models to determine their electricity usage.

Related Posts:

10 Best Countertop Microwave For Seniors, Ranked By Experts

Best Countertop Microwave 2.2 Cu Ft Compare & Find Best Price

Unveiling 10 The Best Countertop Microwave Under $100

10 Best Countertop Microwave Under $150, Reviews & FAQs

The 5 Best Built-In Microwaves Of 2024

When choosing the best countertop microwave oven combo, it’s essential to consider features like cooking power, versatility, and ease of use. A quality model not only heats food quickly but also offers additional functions such as grilling or convection baking, making it a practical addition to any kitchen. By focusing on durability, user-friendly controls, and reliable performance, you can find a unit that meets your cooking needs without compromising countertop space. Ultimately, the right microwave oven combo enhances convenience and efficiency, making everyday meal preparation simpler and more enjoyable.