Which configuration is right for you?

A kitchen with one housing space

If you want to reheat, defrost and cook in one built-in appliance, check that the model you’re considering has the functions you need and that its installation instructions match your housing space.

A household that cooks large quantities

If you use large dishes or cook on several levels, compare the usable dimensions and shelf positions of the combi oven with those of a conventional oven. This option also means finding space for a microwave.

Energy-conscious shoppers

If you switch between quick reheating and oven cooking, compare results for those specific uses rather than judging energy consumption by the appliance type alone. The study by the Institut national de la consommation and ADEME covers specific models and dishes.

What are the key differences between the configurations?

Built-in combi oven

Consider this if: one housing space needs to accommodate both oven and microwave functions.

Bear in mind: the compact Bosch and Electrolux models featured here have capacities of 44 to 45 L, so check that the cavity is big enough for your dishes.

Conventional oven and separate microwave

Consider this if: oven capacity is your priority and you have two suitable spaces.

Bear in mind: this setup requires two appliances. The Whirlpool WOI11P8FHT2SBAF featured here has a capacity of 73 L and five shelf positions, but no built-in microwave function.

Microwave and worktop appliance

Consider this if: there’s no suitable housing space and you can fit the appliances on your worktop.

Check: the space they’ll take up, their cooking functions and each model’s ventilation requirements before treating this as an alternative to a built-in oven.

If your kitchen has limited space for built-in appliances, start by checking the room available, then consider the size of your dishes and the functions you use every day.

Consideration What to check Best suited to
One housing space Compare the built-in dimensions and ventilation requirements for the exact model; check separately that it has both oven and microwave functions. I have just one space for a built-in appliance and want to cook and reheat without adding a second appliance. This would be the priority for around 42% of consumers.
Cooking capacity Check the usable capacity, the dimensions of dishes that will fit and the shelf positions, rather than looking only at the width of the front. My large dishes or multi-level cooking need to fit in the oven, even if that means finding space for a microwave elsewhere. Around 33% of consumers would put this capacity first.
Use and energy consumption Compare the available results for the cooking methods you usually use, and check the instructions for cleaning and ventilation guidance. I want to choose based on how I use my appliance for reheating, defrosting and longer cooking, without assuming a combi oven always uses less energy. Around 25% of consumers would put this first.

Mistakes to avoid before you buy

  • Assuming a compact model has a large oven capacity

    The compact Bosch and Electrolux combi ovens featured here have capacities of 44 to 45 L, while the conventional Whirlpool WOI11P8FHT2SBAF has a capacity of 73 L and five shelf positions. This difference matters if you regularly cook large dishes.

    Measure your usual dishes and baking trays, then compare them with the usable dimensions and accessories of the model you’re considering.

  • Relying on the width of the front alone

    Two appliances that appear to be the same width may need different housing spaces. Electrolux specifies 450 × 560 × 550 mm for the KVLAE2XH combi oven and 380 × 560 × 550 mm for the EMS4253TEX microwave.

    Before ordering, check your housing space against the instructions and installation diagram for the exact model, including its ventilation and connection requirements. Have any changes to cabinetry or electrical installation assessed by a qualified professional.

  • Assuming a ‘combi’ model uses less energy

    A 2026 study by the Institut national de la consommation and ADEME compares four combi ovens and ten conventional built-in ovens across different uses. It does not establish a rule that applies to every model and recipe.

    Look at the results for the dishes you prepare and the functions you’ll actually use.

  • Overlooking ventilation and moisture

    Electrolux says that moisture produced during heating can escape through the ventilation ducts of a microwave or compact oven, and may cause condensation.

    Follow the manufacturer’s clearance and cleaning instructions. If the door needs attention, contact an authorised service centre rather than taking it apart.

Brands and models to consider

These models illustrate different formats and functions to compare; their specifications don’t apply to every model from each brand.

Bosch

Bosch offers compact built-in ovens that combine oven cooking with a microwave function.

  • According to Bosch’s product specifications, the CMG7241B1 and CMA485GB2 have capacities of 45 L and 44 L respectively.
  • If you use large dishes, compare the cavity with that of the conventional oven you’re considering before choosing a compact model.

Electrolux

Electrolux lets you compare a compact combi oven with a separate built-in microwave.

  • Electrolux’s product specifications for the KVLAE2XH state a capacity of 44 L, a housing space of 450 × 560 × 550 mm, and functions including fan cooking and microwave.
  • The separate EMS4253TEX microwave has a capacity of 25 L and a grill; don’t mistake it for a fan oven.

Siemens

The Siemens models featured here show two built-in oven formats with a microwave function.

  • According to Siemens, the CM585AMS0 has a capacity of 44 L in a compact 60 × 45 cm format, while the HM778GMB1 has a capacity of 67 L in a 60 × 60 cm format.
  • The appliance format alone doesn’t confirm compatibility: check the housing dimensions and installation instructions for the model you choose.

Whirlpool

The conventional built-in Whirlpool oven featured here offers a point of comparison when cooking capacity is the priority.

  • Whirlpool states that the WOI11P8FHT2SBAF has a capacity of 73 L and five shelf positions.
  • This oven doesn’t combine the functions you’d need in a single appliance: you’ll need a separate microwave for microwave reheating.

Joybuy products related to this topic

Products related to this topic will be available soon.

Frequently asked questions

Can a built-in combi oven replace a separate oven and microwave?

Yes, provided the model has the oven and microwave functions you need, fits your housing space and can accommodate the dishes you usually use. If you cook large quantities, compare its cavity with that of a conventional oven: the compact Bosch and Electrolux combi ovens featured here have capacities of 44 to 45 L, compared with 73 L for the Whirlpool WOI11P8FHT2SBAF.

What measurements should I take before ordering?

Measure the available housing space and compare it with the built-in dimensions of the exact model, then check its installation diagram for the required clearances. The width of the front isn’t a substitute for these measurements: Electrolux specifies a housing space of 450 × 560 × 550 mm for the KVLAE2XH combi oven.

Does a combi oven always use less energy than a conventional oven?

No, the type of appliance alone isn’t enough to draw that conclusion. A 2026 study by the Institut national de la consommation and ADEME compares four combi ovens and ten conventional built-in ovens across several uses; check the results for each model and type of dish.

What should I do if condensation appears in a combi oven?

Follow the cleaning and ventilation instructions in the manual. Electrolux says that moisture from heated food can circulate through the ventilation ducts. If the door needs attention, don’t take it apart yourself; contact an authorised service centre.