8 Best Microwave and Oven Combos of 2026

The Breville Combi Wave doesn’t just blend cooking technologies—it orchestrates them with surgical precision. This is the only countertop appliance in its class that seamlessly fuses inverter microwave, 1400W convection oven, and air fryer into a single, intelligent system powered by the proprietary Element IQ algorithm. Unlike basic combo units that merely layer functions, this one dynamically adjusts heat distribution and power output to deliver crispy air-fried wings, perfectly baked brownies, and evenly defrosted proteins without guesswork—solving the universal pain point of compromised results in multi-function appliances.

In real-world testing, the Fast Combi mode consistently cut cooking times by nearly 40% compared to conventional ovens, turning a frozen lasagna into a golden, bubbling meal in under 25 minutes. The 1.1 cu.ft cavity handles a 12-inch pizza or whole chicken with ease, though dense dishes like thick casseroles can occasionally show minor hot spots if not rotated. The Power Smoothing Inverter shines during delicate tasks—reheating leftovers without rubbery edges, defrosting ground beef while preserving texture—and the quiet operation (50% quieter than average) makes it ideal for open-concept kitchens or late-night snacking.

Positioned as the premium powerhouse, the Combi Wave outperforms budget models like the BLACK+DECKER ES9P032NA in build quality, temperature control, and culinary versatility, though it demands more counter space and investment. It’s engineered for serious home cooks who want restaurant-grade results without multiple appliances. Compared to the similarly priced Toshiba OptiChef, it trades smart connectivity for superior thermal engineering and faster air frying—delivering better performance where it matters most: on the plate.

Don’t let its modest footprint fool you—the Toshiba ML2-EC10SA packs an 8-in-1 cooking arsenal into a compact chassis, making it a value-packed multitasker that punches far above its weight. With microwave, air fry, convection bake, broil, combi-cook, low-temp, odor removal, and defrost modes, it tackles everything from crispy chicken skins to slow-roasted vegetables, all while fitting neatly on small kitchen counters. The 12.4-inch position memory turntable is a game-changer, rotating fully and remembering its spot when removed—ideal for juggling large dishes without drips or misalignment.

During testing, the air fry function delivered golden, crunchy fries with just a light spritz of oil, though results lagged slightly behind Breville’s in browning depth. The 1000W microwave power reheats efficiently, and multistage cooking lets you automate complex sequences—say, defrost then roast salmon. However, the lack of inverter tech means temperature dips during low-power cycles, occasionally leading to uneven warming. Still, for families or meal preppers, the cavity fits a whole chicken or 12-inch pizza, and the mute function ensures quiet operation—perfect for apartments or nighttime use.

When stacked against the GE GCST10A1WSS, this Toshiba offers more cooking modes and smarter controls at a slightly higher price, making it the better long-term investment. It’s the ideal pick for budget-conscious households who want broad functionality without sacrificing core performance. While it doesn’t match the premium feel of the Breville, it delivers exceptional versatility per dollar—a true workhorse for everyday cooking.

Meet the Toshiba OptiChef ML2-STC13SAIT—a smart, sensor-driven kitchen command center that redefines what a microwave combo can do. Anchored by Origin Inverter Technology, it delivers consistent, ripple-free power for flawless defrosting and reheating, while the intuitive humidity sensor adjusts cooking in real time, preventing dry-outs and undercooked centers. But the real star is the 2.4-inch color touchscreen, which transforms complex cooking into guided experiences—think guided air fry presets, cloud-updated recipes, and AI-optimized sensor cooking that learns your habits.

In practical use, the 1.3 cu.ft cavity excels: it fit a 13-inch lasagna pan and crisped a whole rotisserie chicken evenly thanks to 360° convection airflow. The ChefFry Plus mode produced fries with a crunch close to deep-fried, and Alexa integration allowed voice-started reheats—ideal for hands-full moments. However, the learning curve for the app can frustrate less tech-savvy users, and WiFi dropouts occasionally disrupted remote commands. Still, for connected kitchens, this model turns routine meals into intelligent, personalized experiences.

Compared to the Breville BMO870BSS, the OptiChef trades raw power for smarter automation and larger capacity, making it better suited for tech-forward families who value convenience over pro-grade speed. It’s not the fastest air fryer, but its adaptive cooking intelligence and OTA firmware updates ensure it evolves over time—offering a future-proof edge that pure performance models can’t match.

The Toshiba MASTER Series B0BR566XBB is a precision-focused hybrid that leverages Origin Inverter Technology to achieve what most combo microwaves fail at: truly even cooking from edge to center. With 1800W convection power and Speedy Combi modes, it slashes cooking time while preserving texture—imagine air-fried fish with crackling skin and moist flesh, all ready in under 20 minutes. The 50dB noise level makes it one of the quietest models tested, a rare win for open-plan living, and the 360° heat circulation ensures consistent browning across multiple racks.

Real-world tests confirmed its defrost superiority: a frozen steak thawed in 12 minutes with no cooked edges, thanks to modulated power delivery. The Speedy Combi function—combining microwave, convection, and grill—turned a frozen casserole into a piping-hot meal in half the time of a conventional oven. But the lack of a full-color display and reliance on button navigation feels dated next to the OptiChef. Also, while the 11.3-inch turntable fits most dishes, bulky bakeware can still be a tight fit.

For cooks who prioritize texture and consistency, this model outshines the BLACK+DECKER ES9P032NA and GE GCST10A1WSS in both power and control. It’s the inverter champion of the lineup—perfect for those who want restaurant-quality results without smart features. Compared to the Breville, it offers similar thermal precision at a lower price, though with less intuitive controls and no quiet-close door.

When family-sized meals and spacious cooking are non-negotiable, the Toshiba ML-EC42P(SS) stands tall with a massive 1.5 cu.ft cavity and a 13.6-inch position memory turntable—the largest in this lineup. This isn’t just a microwave; it’s a mini convection oven that fits a whole turkey breast or triple-stack lasagna, making it ideal for households of four or more. The 4-in-1 functionality (microwave, air fry, convection, combo) covers most cooking needs, and the smart sensor auto-adjusts time and power for frozen pizzas or steamed veggies, reducing guesswork.

In testing, the air fry results were respectable—crispy on the outside, juicy within—but slightly less aggressive than Breville or OptiChef models. The mute function is a welcome touch for late-night use, and multistage cooking lets you program defrost-to-roast sequences flawlessly. However, the 1000W microwave power feels underpowered for rapid reheating, and the bulky exterior (21.77” wide) demands serious counter real estate. Still, for large families or entertainers, the sheer capacity outweighs these trade-offs.

Against the FRIGIDAIRE B08FFG5WGP, this model offers larger capacity and smarter presets, justifying its higher cost. It’s the undisputed king of space, perfect for those who regularly cook for crowds. While not the fastest or crispiest, it delivers consistent, family-friendly meals with fewer pans and more convenience—making it a practical powerhouse where volume trumps velocity.

The BLACK+DECKER ES9P032NA is the entry-level hero—a compact, no-frills combo that brings air frying and convection baking to tight budgets and small spaces. With five core functions and 11 air fry presets, it handles everything from frozen nuggets to roasted veggies with surprising competence, while the 900W inverter-powered microwave ensures even reheating. Its Speedy Cooking button (30-second increments) is perfect for quick snacks, and the child-lock adds safety without cluttering the interface.

In daily use, it excelled at small-batch cooking: single-serve fries, baked potatoes, and reheated leftovers came out hot and crisp. The 0.9 cu.ft cavity fits a 10-inch pizza but struggles with larger family meals—roasting a whole chicken requires leg removal. Air fry results are decent but not dazzling, lacking the deep crunch of pricier models. Still, for dorm rooms, offices, or minimalist kitchens, it’s a space-saving marvel that outperforms basic microwaves.

Compared to the GE GCST10A1WSS, it offers more air fry presets and a simpler interface, though slightly less convection power. It’s the best pick for first-time buyers or renters who want versatility on a budget. While it can’t match the Breville’s precision or Toshiba’s capacity, it delivers solid performance where it counts—proving you don’t need luxury to eat well.

The Frigidaire B08FFG5WGP is a compact powerhouse that defies its modest price with XL 1.2 cu.ft capacity and 1500W convection power—a rare combo in budget models. It delivers true convection baking and air frying in a footprint smaller than many 1.0 cu.ft units, thanks to smart internal design. The Combo-Fry mode (microwave + convection) speeds up cooking without sacrificing crispness, and the 1000W microwave power reheats efficiently, making it ideal for small families or efficiency-focused kitchens.

Testing revealed strong browning and airflow, with air-fried wings achieving a satisfying crunch in 18 minutes. The defrost-by-weight function is accurate, and the 10 power levels allow fine control. However, the lack of inverter tech leads to uneven defrosting at low settings, and the plastic turntable feels flimsy compared to glass. The 5 one-touch menus are basic but functional—perfect for quick meals, but not gourmet adventures.

Stacked against the GE GCST10A1WSS, it offers larger capacity and higher convection power for just $20 more—making it the smarter buy for performance seekers. It’s perfect for apartment dwellers or downsizers who want big results in a small space. While it lacks the polish of premium models, it delivers exceptional cooking power for the price, outperforming rivals in raw thermal output.

The GE GCST10A1WSS is the budget-savvy minimalist’s dream—a compact, 1.0 cu.ft convection microwave that packs air fry, broil, and bake modes into a sleek, space-saving chassis. With 1050W microwave power and a crisper pan, it browns and crisps foods better than standard microwaves, making it ideal for dorms, RVs, or secondary kitchens. The broil mode is a standout, delivering a satisfying sear on cheese melts and garlic bread—something most budget combos skip.

In real-world use, the air fry mode produced crispy fries and nuggets, though slightly greasier than high-end models. The preset controls for fries and nuggets simplify operation, and the two-step child lock adds peace of mind. However, the cavity is tight—a 9-inch pie fits, but larger dishes require creative angling. Also, no inverter tech means uneven defrosting, and the basic interface lacks smart features.

Compared to the BLACK+DECKER ES9P032NA, it offers stronger broiling and crisper results but fewer air fry presets. It’s best for users who prioritize browning and simplicity over automation. While it can’t match the capacity of the Toshiba ML-EC42P(SS) or the smarts of the OptiChef, it delivers reliable, no-nonsense performance—a true workhorse for minimalist, budget-first buyers.