Tired of a cluttered kitchen counter? Dreaming of more versatile cooking options without sacrificing precious space? You’re in luck! The modern kitchen appliance landscape has evolved, bringing us ingenious solutions like the microwave and toaster oven combination. These multi-functional marvels are designed to do it all, from quickly reheating leftovers to perfectly toasting bagels, air frying crispy snacks, and even roasting a whole chicken.
Gone are the days when you needed separate appliances for every cooking method. A good microwave and toaster oven combination brings together the speed of a microwave with the precision of a toaster oven, often adding other popular features like air frying and convection baking. This means less clutter, more cooking possibilities, and a more efficient kitchen for busy families and culinary enthusiasts alike.
We’ve scoured the market to bring you a list of the 7 best microwave and toaster oven combinations, highlighting their unique strengths and helping you find the perfect fit for your home. Let’s dive in!
1. Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave, Air Fryer, Convection Oven
The Breville Combi Wave isn’t just a microwave; it’s a complete culinary powerhouse. This 3-in-1 appliance truly stands out with its sophisticated ELEMENT IQ SYSTEM, which intelligently directs power to create the perfect cooking environment, ensuring everything from crispy air-fried fries to tender convection-baked brownies turns out just right. Its quiet operation and soft-close door add a touch of luxury to your kitchen experience, making everyday cooking a pleasure.
-
Key Features:
- 3-in-1 appliance: Combines Air Fryer, Convection Oven, and Inverter Microwave.
- ELEMENT IQ SYSTEM: Smart algorithms steer power for tailored cooking.
- Fast Combi & Cook From Frozen functions: Faster cooking than traditional ovens.
- Power Smoothing Inverter: Delivers smooth, even power for precise heating/defrosting.
- Smart Cook, Reheat & Defrost: 19 built-in smart presets.
- Quiet Microwave with Soft Close Door: 80% quieter soft-close and 50% quieter operation.
- Shortcuts panel on inside door for common tasks.
- Includes Combi Crisp Pan and Trivet.
-
Pros:
- Extremely versatile with excellent performance across all functions.
- Quiet operation and soft-close door are premium features.
- Intuitive controls and smart presets simplify cooking.
- High-quality construction and design.
-
Cons:
- Higher price point than many competitors.
- 1.1 cu.ft capacity might be small for very large families.
User Impressions: Users consistently praise the Breville Combi Wave for its exceptional cooking results and quiet operation. Many highlight how it truly replaces multiple appliances, freeing up significant counter space. The air fryer and convection functions are particular favorites, delivering crispy and evenly cooked foods.
2. TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
When it comes to ultimate functionality in a compact footprint, the TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 truly shines. This unit manages to pack microwave, air fry, bake (convection), broil (grill), combi, low temp, odor removal, and defrost functions into one sleek appliance. Its healthy air fryer ensures you can enjoy your favorite fried foods with less fat, while the smart design, including a position memory turntable, makes it incredibly convenient for daily use. It’s a fantastic kitchen essential for anyone seeking versatility without bulk.
-
Key Features:
- 8-in-1 Multifunctional Microwave: Microwave, air fry, bake, broil, combi, low temp, odor removal, defrost.
- Healthy Air Fryer Combo: Enjoy fried food with less fat.
- Compact size with large capacity: 12.4-inch removable turntable fits a whole roasted chicken or 12-inch pizza.
- Convenience features: One-touch popcorn, easy-to-turn knobs, position memory turntable, speedy cooking, mute function.
- Two-Step Child Lock for safety.
- Stylish black stainless steel finish and easy-to-clean stainless steel interior.
-
Pros:
- Impressive 8 functions in one appliance.
- Excellent healthy air frying capabilities.
- Large interior capacity despite its compact external dimensions.
- User-friendly controls and helpful convenience features.
-
Cons:
- Some users might find the knob controls less precise than pure digital buttons for certain settings.
- The “odor removal” function’s effectiveness can vary.
User Impressions: Customers love the TOSHIBA 8-in-1 for its incredible versatility and the space it saves. The air fryer feature receives high marks for delivering crispy results, and the oven’s ability to fit larger dishes like a whole chicken is a pleasant surprise for many. Its modern look is also a frequent compliment.
3. BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry, Combi
The BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven is a workhorse that proves you don’t need to break the bank for multi-functionality. This appliance is perfect for those who want essential cooking versatility without unnecessary frills. With microwave, air fryer, combi (grill/convection), bake, and roast functions, it covers all your culinary bases. Its intuitive air fry presets make whipping up quick, healthy snacks a breeze, and its compact size is ideal for smaller kitchens or dorm rooms.
-
Key Features:
- 5-in-1 Microwave Oven: Microwave, air fryer, combi (grill/convection), bake, and roast.
- 10 Cooking Levels with 900-watt output.
- 7 auto menus for popular foods like popcorn and potatoes.
- 11 preset air fry menus for common fried items (e.g., French fries, chicken wings).
- Speedy Cooking: One-touch 30-second increments.
- Child-Lock Setting for safety.
-
Pros:
- Great value for money with a good range of functions.
- Convenient air fry presets simplify cooking.
- Compact footprint, ideal for smaller spaces.
- Straightforward and easy to use.
-
Cons:
- 900-watt microwave power might be less than some higher-end models.
- The interior capacity is on the smaller side.
User Impressions: Reviewers appreciate the BLACK+DECKER’s affordability and its impressive array of functions for the price. The air fry feature is particularly highlighted for its effectiveness, and users find it a reliable option for everyday cooking and reheating, especially in apartments or offices.
4. Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
This Toshiba 4-in-1 model masterfully combines convenience with quality cooking. It’s a versatile microwave and toaster oven combination that focuses on delivering optimal results for popular foods. Beyond its microwave and air fry capabilities, it boasts robust convection cooking and unique auto bake/roast menus. The larger 13.6-inch position memory turntable is a significant advantage, allowing you to cook family-sized meals or a large pizza with ease, making it a true kitchen hero.
-
Key Features:
- 4-in-1 Multifunctional: Microwave, air fry, convection, combination cooking.
- Healthy Air Fryer Combo for less fat.
- Better Texture: Combines microwave and convection for improved food quality.
- Auto bake, defrosting, and auto roast menus.
- Pre-programmed sensor menu for optimum results on popular foods (e.g., frozen pizza).
- Large Capacity: 13.6-inch removable turntable fits a whole roasted chicken or 12-inch pizza.
- Stylish stainless steel finish with an easy-to-clean stainless steel interior.
- Convenience features: One-touch popcorn, memory function, speedy cooking, mute function.
-
Pros:
- Excellent large capacity for family meals.
- Sensor cooking ensures precise results for common foods.
- Convection and air fry functions work very well.
- Attractive design and durable stainless steel interior.
-
Cons:
- Might be slightly larger externally than some compact models.
- Some users report a learning curve with the sensor cooking settings.
User Impressions: Many users are impressed by this Toshiba’s ability to handle larger dishes thanks to its spacious interior. The sensor cooking is a frequent highlight, delivering perfectly cooked results without guesswork. The air fryer also garners praise for its efficiency and consistent performance.
5. TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo (Ultimate Versatility)
This TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven takes versatility to the next level. With 10 power levels and specialized functions like yogurt making, it’s designed to be your ultimate kitchen helper. What truly sets it apart is the Inverter Microwave with Smart Sensor technology, which intelligently adjusts cooking time and power to prevent under or overcooking, ensuring maximum tenderness and even heating. Coupled with 360° rapid heat circulation for crispier air-fried foods and an included recipe book, this is a fantastic choice for experimental home cooks.
-
Key Features:
- Ultimate Versatility: Microwave, air fryer, convection oven, broiler, defroster, toast function, and even yogurt making!
- 10 power levels.
- Inverter Microwave with Smart Sensor: Adjusts power/time for even cooking, reheating, and defrosting.
- Less Fat and Crispier: 360° rapid heat circulation for air frying.
- Speed up Cooking with Combi-Modes (Microwave, convection, grill combinations).
- Includes original cookbook with 47 classic recipes, plus 6 Auto Menus, 10 Home Fry Menus, 5 Sensor Cook Presets, and 6 Defrost Presets.
- Supplied air fry basket, bake tray, and two wire racks for optimal results.
-
Pros:
- Unparalleled versatility with unique functions like yogurt making.
- Inverter and Smart Sensor technology ensure excellent cooking results.
- Comes with an extensive recipe book and numerous presets.
- Speeds up cooking with powerful combi-modes.
-
Cons:
- The sheer number of functions and presets might be overwhelming for some users initially.
- Exterior dimensions might require more counter space than smaller models.
User Impressions: This Toshiba model is lauded for its advanced features, especially the inverter and smart sensor, which consistently deliver perfectly cooked food. The added recipes and accessories are a big hit, encouraging users to explore new dishes. Many consider it a superb all-in-one replacement for several kitchen gadgets.
6. GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven, 1,050 Watts Air Fryer
The GE GCST10A1WSS offers reliable performance and classic GE quality in a compact, yet powerful 4-in-1 package. This microwave and toaster oven combination features dedicated Air Fry, Convection, and Broil modes, providing a full range of cooking options for nearly any meal. It’s designed for efficiency and convenience, boasting specific preset controls for popular items like fries and nuggets, ensuring perfectly cooked results every time. Its compact size makes it an ideal fit for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or office spaces without compromising on power.
-
Key Features:
- 4-in-1 Microwave Oven: Microwave, Air Fry, Convection, and Broil modes.
- AIR FRY MODE: Healthier, crispier versions of favorite foods.
- CONVECTION MODE: Crispy, golden brown results with even heat distribution.
- BROIL MODE: Searing and caramelizing foods to perfection.
- PRESET CONTROLS: Quick and easy operation for items like Fries and Nuggets.
- Compact Yet Powerful: 1,050-watt and 1.0 CU FT. capacity.
- Glass Turntable: Rotates food for even cooking.
- Two-Step Child Lock for safety.
-
Pros:
- Reliable GE brand quality.
- Excellent air fry, convection, and broil functions.
- Compact design suitable for various spaces.
- Easy-to-use preset controls.
-
Cons:
- 1.0 cu.ft capacity is quite small for larger families.
- Some users might prefer more advanced smart features found in other models.
User Impressions: Customers appreciate the straightforward functionality and consistent performance of this GE combo. The air fryer and convection features are particularly well-received, offering a noticeable improvement over standard microwave cooking. Its compact size and ease of use are also frequently mentioned positives.
7. Nuwave Bravo Air Fryer Toaster Smart Oven, 12-in-1
Important Note: While the Nuwave Bravo Air Fryer Toaster Smart Oven is a highly versatile multi-functional appliance, it’s crucial to understand that it does NOT include a microwave function. It excels as an advanced toaster oven and air fryer combination. We’ve included it on this list as an exceptional alternative for those who prioritize superior air frying, toasting, baking, and roasting capabilities in a single unit, and who may already have a separate microwave or don’t require one.
The Nuwave Bravo stands out with its incredible precision and control. With “adjustments on-the-fly” and an integrated digital temperature probe, you’ll never undercook or overcook your food again. Its Linear Thermal (Linear T) Technology maintains consistent temperatures throughout the entire cooking process, while 112 presets make gourmet cooking accessible to everyone. This heavy-duty appliance is a true smart oven for serious home chefs.
-
Key Features:
- No Microwave Function: Primarily an advanced toaster oven/air fryer.
- 12-in-1 versatility: Grilling, air frying, baking, broiling, roasting, dehydrating, reheating, defrosting, toasting, and more.
- Adjustments On-The-Fly: Change time, temperature, and even top/bottom heater power mid-cook.
- Integrated Digital Temperature Probe: Ensures desired internal food temperature is reached automatically.
- 112 Presets: 12 cooking functions + 100 pre-programmed recipes, plus 50 custom slots.
- Linear Thermal (Linear T) Technology: Maintains precise temperatures from 50°F to 500°F.
- High-quality construction: Heat-resistant tempered glass door, heavy-duty racks, non-stick enamel pan.
- Includes: Broiler rack, crumb tray, air fry basket.
-
Pros:
- Unmatched precision and control for a toaster oven/air fryer.
- Integrated temperature probe eliminates guesswork.
- Vast array of presets and customizable options.
- Robust and durable construction.
- Excellent for air frying, baking, and roasting.
-
Cons:
- Does NOT have a microwave function.
- Takes up significant counter space.
- Can have a steeper learning curve due to advanced features.
User Impressions: Users rave about the Nuwave Bravo’s ability to perfectly cook a wide variety of foods. The digital temperature probe is a game-changer for many, guaranteeing perfectly cooked meats. While acknowledging it’s not a microwave, customers often see it as a superior replacement for traditional ovens for smaller meals, praising its consistent performance and versatility for everything from dehydrating to air frying.
FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Microwave and Toaster Oven Combinations Answered
Q1: What exactly is a microwave and toaster oven combination?
A: A microwave and toaster oven combination is a single kitchen appliance that combines the functions of a microwave oven (for quick heating and defrosting) with those of a toaster oven (for toasting, baking, broiling, and often air frying or convection cooking). The goal is to save counter space and offer versatile cooking options in one unit.
Q2: How do these combination ovens save counter space?
A: By merging multiple appliances into one, you eliminate the need for separate microwave ovens, toaster ovens, air fryers, and even sometimes small convection ovens. This significantly reduces clutter, freeing up valuable counter space in smaller kitchens or for a more minimalist aesthetic.
Q3: Are microwave and toaster oven combination units energy efficient?
A: Generally, yes, especially when used for smaller tasks that would typically require a full-sized oven. For instance, baking a small batch of cookies or air frying chicken wings in a combo oven is often more energy-efficient than preheating and using a large conventional oven, as they heat up faster and have smaller internal volumes.
Q4: Can I use the microwave and oven functions simultaneously?
A: Typically, no. Most combination ovens operate on one primary cooking mode at a time. While they offer multiple functions, you usually can’t microwave something while simultaneously baking or air frying, as they share heating elements and internal components. Some “combi” modes, however, might use a combination of microwave and convection/grill in sequence or together to speed up cooking.
Q5: What should I look for when buying a microwave and toaster oven combination?
A: Consider capacity (cu. ft. for microwave, or fit for pizza/chicken for oven), power (watts for microwave, temperature range for oven), available functions (air fry, convection, grill, defrost presets), ease of cleaning (stainless steel interior), digital controls vs. knobs, safety features (child lock), and specific brand reputations. Think about your most frequent cooking needs.
Q6: How do I clean a combination oven?
A: Cleaning usually involves wiping down the interior with a damp cloth and mild soap after each use, especially after cooking greasy or splattering foods. Removable parts like turntables, racks, and crumb trays should be washed by hand or in a dishwasher. Always consult your specific model’s manual for detailed cleaning instructions and recommended cleaning agents.
Q7: Is the air fryer function in these combos effective?
A: Yes, many modern microwave and toaster oven combination units with an integrated air fryer function are highly effective. They use powerful convection fans to circulate hot air rapidly, creating a crispy, fried texture with significantly less oil than traditional deep frying. Look for models that include dedicated air fry baskets for optimal results.
Q8: What’s the difference between convection and air fry functions in these appliances?
A: Both convection and air fry use circulating hot air to cook food. However, an air fryer is essentially a highly concentrated convection oven designed for maximum crispiness. Air fryers typically have a more powerful fan and often a smaller cooking chamber or a basket to allow 360-degree airflow around food, leading to faster cooking and crispier results, particularly for “fried” foods. Convection mode is great for baking and roasting evenly.
