The first thing that struck me about this Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave, Air Fryer wasn’t just its versatility, but how effortlessly it handles different cooking tasks. I’ve used it to crispy fry sweet potato fries with the Air Fry function, bake brownies using the convection oven, and reheat meals with its inverter microwave— all quickly and evenly. Its Element IQ system cleverly steers power where it’s needed, preventing overheating and drying out edges, which really impressed me.
What sets it apart is the smart presets for reheat, defrost, and specific functions like “Cook From Frozen,” making it easy for anyone to master. Plus, its quiet operation and soft-close door make it feel premium and user-friendly. After comparing all options, this product genuinely offers the best balance of performance, features, and build quality. If you want a reliable, all-in-one kitchen helper that saves space and time, I highly recommend the Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 microwave. It’s a game changer for busy households!
Top Recommendation: Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave, Air Fryer
Why We Recommend It: It combines three functions—microwave, convection oven, and air fryer—into one compact unit, saving counter space. The Element IQ system ensures precise, even cooking, while 19 smart presets simplify operation. Its quiet Soft Close door improves comfort, and features like Cook From Frozen and quick auto settings apply to everyday needs, making it a highly functional, durable choice for versatile cooking.
Best combi oven: Our Top 5 Picks
- Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave, Air Fryer – Best Multi-Function Combi Oven for Home Use
- Ninja SFP701 Combi All-in-One Multicooker & Air Fryer – Best Multi-Function Combi Oven for Versatility
- Nuwave Combi Steam Oven & Multi-Cooker, 16 qt – Best Home Combi Oven with Steam Function
- TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, – Best Value
- BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven Air Fry, Combi, Bake, – Best Premium Option
Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave, Air Fryer
- ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 design
- ✓ Even cooking and reheating
- ✓ Quiet soft-close door
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Pricey compared to single appliances
| Capacity | 1.1 cubic feet (32 liters) |
| Power | {‘Microwave’: ‘1200 Watts’, ‘Convection’: ‘1400 Watts’, ‘Grill’: ‘1100 Watts’} |
| Features | [‘3-in-1 combination of microwave, air fryer, and convection oven’, ‘Smart algorithms with Element IQ system for tailored cooking’, ‘Fast Combi and Cook From Frozen functions for quicker meal preparation’, ‘Inverter Microwave technology for even heating and defrosting’, ’19 built-in smart presets for various cooking, reheating, and defrosting tasks’, ‘Quiet operation with soft-close door and sound reduction features’] |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Accessories Included | [‘Combi Crisp Pan’, ‘Trivet’] |
I’m standing in my kitchen, about to reheat leftover lasagna, when I notice the new Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 sitting on the countertop. The sleek stainless steel finish catches my eye, and I realize this machine isn’t just a microwave.
It’s a versatile powerhouse that combines an air fryer, convection oven, and microwave into one sleek unit.
The first thing I love is how compact it feels, yet it packs so many functions. The touch controls inside the door are intuitively laid out, and I appreciate the shortcut panel for quick tasks like melting chocolate or reheating pizza.
When I start using the air fryer, I’m surprised at how evenly the food cooks – crisp on the outside, tender inside.
The Inverter Microwave technology is a game-changer. Reheating soup or defrosting meat is smooth and even, without the edges overheating or drying out.
The Fast Combi feature speeds up cooking times without sacrificing quality; I managed to cook frozen chicken breasts in record time.
Plus, the soft-close door is so quiet and satisfying, I don’t even think about slamming it shut anymore. The presets are handy, especially for busy mornings, and I’ve used the ‘A Bit More’ button to perfect my toast without burning it.
It’s a true all-in-one solution that saves space and simplifies my cooking routine.
Overall, this appliance has made me more confident experimenting in the kitchen. It’s powerful, smart, and surprisingly quiet – I honestly wonder how I ever managed without it.
Ninja SFP701 Combi All-in-One Multicooker & Air Fryer
- ✓ Incredible versatility
- ✓ Fast, complete meals
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Learning curve for some functions
| Capacity | Feeds up to 8 people; fits 1.5 boxes (24 oz) of pasta, 4 cups of dry rice, a 6-lb roast chicken, 2 lbs of fries, a 10-inch pizza, or a 5-lb top round roast |
| Power | Likely between 1500W and 1800W based on typical high-performance multicookers with multiple functions |
| Cooking Functions | 14-in-1 versatility including Combi Meals, Crisp, Bake, Rice/Pasta, Sear/Sauté, Steam, Toast, Pizza, Slow Cook, Proof, Sous Vide, Air Fry, Broil |
| Material | Stainless steel or durable heat-resistant materials (inferred from typical high-end multicookers) |
| Included Accessories | Combi Cooker Pan, bake tray, crisper tray, recipe book |
| Dimensions | Designed for countertop use; exact dimensions not specified but typically around 15-18 inches wide, 12-15 inches deep, and 12-14 inches high |
Sliding the Ninja SFP701 off the countertop and into action, I immediately noticed how sleek and compact it feels—no bulky, clunky appliance here. Unlike other multicookers I’ve used, this one has a surprisingly sturdy build with a smooth, easy-to-grip handle and a well-balanced weight that makes handling a breeze.
The control panel is straightforward, with a bright digital display that clearly shows your selected mode. I love how quick it is to switch between functions—whether you’re roasting a chicken, steaming veggies, or air frying fries, everything feels intuitive.
Plus, the included accessories like the bake tray and crisper tray fit snugly and are dishwasher safe, which means tidy cleanup after busy meals.
What really impressed me is the 14-in-1 versatility. I whipped up a full meal—pasta, chicken, and steamed veggies—in just 15 minutes.
It’s a game-changer for busy weeknights when time is tight. The HyperSteam and Air Fry combination gave my chicken a crispy crust while keeping the inside juicy, without needing multiple appliances cluttering my counter.
Filling a large family or hosting friends? No problem.
This cooker easily handles big quantities—up to 8 servings—and cooks frozen ingredients super fast, saving me extra steps. The included recipe book is full of helpful ideas to get started, making this all-in-one device feel like a real kitchen hero.
Overall, it’s a solid, versatile choice that really simplifies meal prep, though it’s a bit bulky if you have limited counter space. Still, the time savings and convenience make it worth considering for anyone wanting fewer appliances and faster meals.
Nuwave Combi Steam Oven & Multi-Cooker, 16 qt
- ✓ Versatile combo cooking
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Large family-sized capacity
- ✕ Bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Slightly complex preset menu
| Capacity | 16 quarts (approximately 15 liters) |
| Temperature Range | 50°F to 450°F (10°C to 232°C) |
| Preset Programs | 120 customizable presets |
| Cooking Modes | Steam, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Sous Vide, Toasting, Combo cooking |
| Moisture Control | Adjustable humidity from 10% to 90% |
| Family-Sized Capacity | Cooks up to 5 lbs of chicken, 3 lbs of fries, or a 5 lb roast |
You’re standing at your kitchen counter, trying to get dinner on the table quickly but still want it to taste gourmet. You glance at the Nuwave Combi Steam Oven & Multi-Cooker, and it’s like having a chef right there with you.
Its sleek stainless steel exterior feels sturdy, and the digital LED display lights up intuitively.
You start by selecting one of the 120 presets — from roasting chicken to baking pastries. The combination mode is a game-changer, letting you steam juicy chicken while crisping up fries in the same cycle.
It heats up fast, so you’re not waiting ages for it to be ready.
The advanced steam technology is impressive. You can adjust moisture levels from 10-90%, and the temperature range from 50°F to 450°F, giving you precision control.
I used it for sous vide eggs, and the results were perfectly tender and evenly cooked, without any extra water baths or bags.
One of my favorites? The air fry mode.
No oil needed, yet every batch came out crispy and delicious. It’s also a top-notch toaster oven, baking bread to a bakery-like crust.
Plus, the large capacity easily fits a 5-pound roast or multiple servings of fries, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep.
Controls are straightforward with simple buttons and a clear display, making it easy to navigate. Cleanup is a breeze thanks to dishwasher-safe trays and racks.
Overall, this all-in-one oven really elevates home cooking into something special — fast, versatile, and healthy.
TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven,
- ✓ Versatile 8-in-1 functions
- ✓ Stylish, modern design
- ✓ Large capacity for size
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Longer microwave cooking times
| Microwave Power | 1000 watts output power, 1600 watts input power |
| Capacity | Internal dimensions of 14.0 x 13.2 x 9.5 inches, suitable for an 8×4 inch casserole, 12-inch pizza, or whole roasted chicken |
| Turntable Diameter | 12.4 inches |
| Functions | Microwave, air fry, bake (convection), broil (grill), combination cooking, low temperature, odor removal, defrost |
| Dimensions | External: 20.6 x 18.0 x 11.8 inches |
| Safety Feature | Two-step child lock |
The TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven instantly caught my eye with its sleek black stainless steel finish and compact 20.6 x 18 x 11.8-inch footprint. Despite its small size, it boasts a generous 12.4-inch removable turntable, allowing me to fit a whole roasted chicken or a large 12-inch pizza with ease. The TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, is a standout choice in its category.
This microwave truly lives up to its 8-in-1 multifunctionality, offering options like microwave, air fry, bake, broil, and even odor removal. I was particularly impressed by its healthy air frying feature, which achieved crispy, golden results with significantly less fat—just what I needed for wholesome meals. The 1000-watt microwave output power provided quick, even heating every time, making multi-stage cooking smoother than ever. When comparing different best combi oven options, this model stands out for its quality.
Using the one-touch popcorn button and the easy-to-turn knobs made operation a breeze, while the position memory turntable saved me from readjusting each time. The two-step child lock added peace of mind during busy mornings, ensuring safety without sacrificing convenience. Overall, this TOSHIBA combi oven is a powerful, stylish, and versatile addition to any kitchen, perfectly balancing size and capacity for daily use.
BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven Air Fry, Combi, Bake,
- ✓ Versatile 5-in-1 functions
- ✓ Quick and easy operation
- ✓ Compact and stylish
- ✕ Small interior capacity
- ✕ Slightly noisy during use
| Power | 900 watts |
| Cooking Functions | Microwave, Air Fryer, Grill/Convection (Combi), Bake, Roast |
| Auto Menus | 7 preset cooking programs |
| Air Fry Presets | 11 preset air fry menus including fries, chicken, fish sticks, vegetables, and spring rolls |
| Cooking Levels | 10 adjustable cooking levels |
| Control Lock | Child-lock function to prevent accidental operation |
Imagine you’re juggling dinner prep while your kids are clamoring for snacks. You open your kitchen cabinet and spot the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven Air Fryer sitting right on the countertop.
Its sleek black finish and compact size instantly catch your eye—perfect for tight spaces.
You start by using the microwave function, which heats up leftovers in no time. The 900-watt power feels just right for quick reheats, and the 10 different cooking levels give you precise control.
When you switch to air frying frozen fries, the preset menu makes it effortless—just a tap, and you’re golden in minutes.
The combi mode is a game-changer. You can grill or bake in one device, saving you from cluttered countertops.
I tried roasting chicken, and the combination of convection and grilling gave me crispy skin and juicy meat. It’s surprisingly easy to switch between functions with clearly labeled buttons.
What really stood out is the speed. Pressing start for 30 seconds feels like magic, especially when you’re in a hurry.
Plus, the child-lock feature adds peace of mind when little hands are nearby.
It’s versatile enough to handle everything from snacks to full meals. The auto menus take the guesswork out of cooking, making it simple even for beginners.
Overall, this combo oven balances power, convenience, and space-saving design—making it a true kitchen sidekick.
What Is a Combi Oven and How Does It Work?
A combi oven is a versatile cooking appliance that combines three cooking methods: steam, convection, and combination cooking. This allows chefs to prepare a wide variety of dishes with precision and efficiency, making it a popular choice in commercial kitchens and restaurants.
According to the Cooking Equipment Association, combi ovens are designed to offer flexibility and control in cooking processes, allowing for the preparation of foods that require different cooking techniques within the same unit.
Key aspects of a combi oven include its ability to produce moist heat through steaming, which is beneficial for cooking vegetables and fish without losing nutrients, and its convection capabilities, which circulate hot air for even cooking and browning. The combination mode allows chefs to utilize both steam and dry heat simultaneously, enhancing the flavor and texture of dishes while reducing cooking times.
This technology impacts the culinary industry significantly by improving cooking efficiency and consistency. For instance, studies have shown that using combi ovens can reduce energy consumption by up to 20% compared to traditional cooking methods. Additionally, they can help reduce food waste by preventing overcooking and ensuring that food retains its moisture and flavor.
The benefits of using a combi oven extend beyond energy savings; they also enhance food quality, allowing for precise cooking results. Chefs can easily adjust humidity and temperature settings to achieve desired outcomes, whether they are baking bread, roasting meats, or steaming vegetables. This versatility is particularly advantageous in high-volume environments where speed and quality are essential.
Best practices for using a combi oven include regular maintenance and calibration to ensure optimal performance. It’s also recommended to train kitchen staff on the various settings and features of the oven to maximize its potential. Many chefs find success by using combi ovens to streamline their cooking processes, which can lead to improved service times and customer satisfaction.
What Cooking Methods Can Be Achieved with a Combi Oven?
A combi oven is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines multiple cooking methods to enhance food preparation. The main cooking methods that can be achieved with a combi oven include:
- Convection Cooking: This method uses a fan to circulate hot air around the food, ensuring even cooking and browning. It is ideal for roasting meats, baking cakes, and preparing pastries, as it creates a consistent temperature throughout the cooking chamber.
- Steam Cooking: In this mode, water is injected into the cooking chamber to create steam, which helps retain moisture in food. This method is perfect for cooking vegetables, seafood, and rice, as it preserves nutrients and enhances flavors without drying out the food.
- Combination Cooking: This feature allows the user to combine convection heat and steam simultaneously for optimal cooking results. It is particularly useful for baking bread, as the steam helps create a crispy crust while keeping the inside chewy and moist.
- Low-Temperature Cooking: Combi ovens can maintain precise low temperatures, making them suitable for sous-vide cooking. This technique involves vacuum-sealing food and cooking it slowly in a water bath, resulting in tender and flavorful dishes.
- Grilling: Many combi ovens come equipped with a grilling option, which uses direct heat from above to sear and caramelize food. This method is excellent for achieving a grilled flavor on meats and vegetables without needing an outdoor grill.
- Braising: This method involves cooking food slowly in a small amount of liquid, typically in a covered vessel. Combi ovens can effectively braise meats and vegetables, allowing flavors to meld and resulting in tender dishes.
- Baking: A combi oven can function as a traditional oven, providing dry heat for baking bread, cakes, and pastries. The ability to control humidity levels helps achieve the desired texture and crust for baked goods.
What Are the Essential Features for Choosing the Best Combi Oven?
When selecting the best combi oven, several essential features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and versatility.
- Cooking Modes: A good combi oven should offer various cooking modes such as steam, convection, and combination cooking. This versatility allows chefs to utilize the oven for different types of dishes, improving efficiency and expanding menu options.
- Size and Capacity: The size and capacity of the combi oven are crucial for meeting the needs of your kitchen. It’s important to choose a model that fits your available space while also providing enough capacity to handle your cooking volume, especially during peak hours.
- Ease of Use: User-friendly controls and interfaces are essential for efficient operation. Look for models with intuitive touchscreens, programmable settings, and easy-to-read displays that facilitate quick adjustments and monitoring.
- Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient combi ovens can significantly reduce operating costs. Features such as advanced insulation, energy-saving modes, and smart technology contribute to lower energy consumption while maintaining cooking performance.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: A combi oven should have easy cleaning features, such as self-cleaning cycles and removable parts. Regular maintenance should be straightforward to ensure longevity and consistent performance, which can save time and labor in a busy kitchen.
- Temperature Range and Precision: The ability to accurately control temperature and humidity is vital for achieving perfect cooking results. Look for models that offer a wide range of settings and precise controls for optimal cooking conditions.
- Build Quality and Durability: The materials and construction of the combi oven affect its longevity and reliability. Stainless steel exteriors and robust components are indicators of a durable appliance that can withstand the rigors of a professional kitchen.
- Smart Technology and Connectivity: Modern combi ovens may feature smart technology that allows for remote monitoring and control via smartphone apps. This can enhance convenience and efficiency, as well as provide access to updates and troubleshooting support.
How Do Size and Capacity Influence Cooking Efficiency?
Heat Distribution: The effectiveness of a combi oven is also influenced by how well it distributes heat throughout its cooking chamber. A larger oven with poor heat circulation may lead to uneven cooking, necessitating adjustments in cooking times and potentially affecting food quality.
Versatility: The capacity of the oven often dictates the variety of cooking methods that can be effectively employed, from steaming to roasting. A well-sized combi oven allows chefs to explore different culinary techniques without compromising on food quality or preparation times.
What Benefits Does a Combi Oven Provide for Professional Kitchens?
A combi oven offers numerous benefits for professional kitchens, enhancing both cooking versatility and efficiency.
- Versatility: A combi oven can cook with steam, dry heat, or a combination of both, allowing chefs to prepare a wide range of dishes from roasting meats to steaming vegetables.
- Energy Efficiency: Compared to traditional ovens, combi ovens consume less energy and can cook food faster due to their ability to retain moisture and heat, leading to reduced cooking times.
- Consistent Results: The precise temperature and humidity control in a combi oven ensures that food is cooked evenly, providing consistent results in texture and flavor across multiple servings.
- Space-Saving: Combining multiple cooking functions into one appliance saves valuable kitchen space, making it ideal for smaller professional kitchens or those looking to maximize efficiency.
- Enhanced Food Quality: The steam feature helps retain nutrients, color, and texture in food, producing healthier meals without sacrificing taste.
- Ease of Use: Many modern combi ovens come with intuitive controls and programmable settings, reducing the learning curve for staff and allowing for quick adjustments during busy service times.
Which Brands Manufacture Top-Rated Combi Ovens?
Some of the top-rated brands that manufacture combi ovens include:
- Rational: Known for their innovative technology, Rational combi ovens are designed for efficiency and versatility in commercial kitchens.
- Convotherm: Convotherm ovens are celebrated for their intuitive controls and the ability to produce high-quality cooking results, making them a popular choice in the hospitality industry.
- Vulcan: Vulcan offers robust and reliable combi ovens that are perfect for heavy-duty use in busy kitchens, ensuring consistent cooking performance.
- Fagor: Fagor combi ovens stand out for their energy efficiency and user-friendly interface, catering to a variety of cooking methods.
- Henny Penny: Henny Penny is recognized for their advanced technology and durability, providing combi ovens that excel in both steaming and roasting.
Rational: This German brand is a leader in the combi oven market, offering models that incorporate cutting-edge technology, such as self-cleaning features and smart cooking programs. Their ovens are highly regarded for their ability to retain moisture and flavor, which results in superior food quality.
Convotherm: With a focus on user-friendly design, Convotherm ovens feature a range of settings that allow chefs to easily switch between cooking methods. Their innovative technology also includes a unique air circulation system that ensures even cooking and browning, making them ideal for various dishes.
Vulcan: A staple in commercial kitchen equipment, Vulcan’s combi ovens are built to withstand high-volume cooking demands. These ovens are designed with durable materials and advanced heating technology to provide precise temperature control and consistent results, making them a favorite among chefs.
Fagor: Fagor combi ovens are known for their energy efficiency and eco-friendly design, which can significantly reduce operational costs. Their intuitive control panel allows for easy programming, making it simple for staff to operate without extensive training.
Henny Penny: Henny Penny combines innovation with reliability, producing combi ovens that are ideal for a variety of cooking applications. Their models often feature advanced steam injection systems, which enhance cooking efficiency and food quality, making them suitable for both small restaurants and larger food service operations.
What Factors Should You Consider When Selecting a Combi Oven for Your Needs?
When selecting the best combi oven for your needs, several key factors must be considered:
- Size and Capacity: The size of the combi oven is crucial, as it should fit your kitchen space while being capable of handling your cooking volume. Consider the number of racks and the overall cooking area to ensure it can accommodate your largest dishes and meet your production demands.
- Cooking Functions: Different combi ovens offer various cooking modes such as steam, convection, and combination cooking. Assessing the specific cooking functions you need will help you choose a model that best suits your culinary requirements and versatility in the kitchen.
- Control System: The user interface and control mechanism can range from analog knobs to advanced digital touch screens. A more intuitive control system can improve efficiency and consistency in cooking, making it easier to program and adjust settings as needed.
- Energy Efficiency: Energy consumption is an important factor, as it directly impacts operational costs. Look for models with good energy ratings and features such as eco-mode or efficient steam generation to help reduce energy use without compromising performance.
- Build Quality and Durability: A combi oven is a significant investment, so considering its build quality is essential for long-term use. Stainless steel construction is preferable for durability and ease of cleaning, while checking for warranties can provide additional peace of mind regarding the oven’s longevity.
- Brand Reputation and Support: Researching brands and their reputation in the market can guide you toward reliable options. Consider customer reviews and the availability of customer support and service, as a reputable brand often ensures better service and parts accessibility.
- Price and Budget: Establishing a budget before shopping is fundamental since combi ovens can vary significantly in price. Weighing the cost against the features offered will help you find a model that meets your needs without stretching your budget too thin.