In our modern kitchens, where space is at a premium, optimising every square inch is essential. Between the stand mixer, the coffee machine, and the toaster, countertops can get cluttered fast. This is where the combination microwave oven emerges as an invaluable ally. Capable of defrosting, reheating, grilling, and even baking like a conventional oven, it's the Swiss Army knife of the contemporary kitchen.
This guide is here to help you make sense of it all. We'll break down the essential selection criteria and present our top picks for 2026. The goal: to help you find the perfect appliance that fits your habits and your budget.
Faced with a jungle of features, choosing the right appliance can quickly become a headache. To ensure you make the right choice, here are the essential criteria to scrutinise.
Expressed in litres (L), the capacity determines the size of the dishes you can fit inside. For a single person or a couple, a 20 to 25-litre model will be more than enough. A family of three to four should look for a large-capacity microwave between 25 and 35 litres. Beyond that, models over 35 litres are aimed at large families and those who love to entertain.
Power, measured in watts (W), is crucial: it dictates the speed of cooking and defrosting. For the microwave function alone, 900?W is a good baseline. For the grill and convection functions, higher power guarantees more even cooking and much crispier results.
The key advantage of a combination microwave oven is its versatility. Here’s an overview of the game-changing functions:
Automatic programmes simplify your life in the kitchen. Just select the type of food and its weight, and the appliance does the rest by adjusting the power and duration. Automatic defrost functions, in particular, are a valuable time-saver.
Finally, one point you should never overlook is maintenance. A cavity with a non-stick coating or, even better, a self-cleaning one (catalytic or pyrolytic on the most premium models) will save you a lot of cleaning chores when dealing with grease splatters.
To put theory into practice, here are three models that perfectly illustrate different user profiles, from the most basic to the most demanding.
Why it stands out: This Hisense model is the ideal compromise between compactness and functionality. With its 25-litre capacity and grill function, it's a smart, versatile solution for kitchens where every centimetre counts.
Pros:
Who is it for? It's the perfect choice for students, young couples, or small families looking for an efficient everyday appliance that can handle both quick reheating and preparing a delicious gratin.
Why it stands out: We're moving upmarket with the LG MJ3965ACS, a true powerhouse of technology for high-end cooking. Its large capacity and numerous modes make it a monster of versatility.
Pros:
Who is it for? The ideal companion for large families and home chefs who want an ultra-high-performance all-in-one appliance capable of juggling steamed vegetables, roasts, and even baked goods.
Why it stands out: With its XXL 42-litre capacity and formidable convection power, this Sharp model positions itself as a true alternative to a traditional oven, with the added speed of a microwave.
Pros:
Who is it for? It's clearly aimed at large households and those who love to cook on a grand scale. Its power and volume make it a more than serious alternative to a built-in oven, especially when there isn't space to install a second appliance.
Our selection is just a glimpse of what's available. The final choice is yours, depending on your habits and budget. To explore other brands, capacities, or designs, feel free to browse our full catalogue.
? Explore All Our Kitchen Microwave Ovens
What's the difference between a combination microwave and a microwave with a grill? A microwave with a grill simply adds a top heating element to brown dishes. The combination microwave oven goes much further: it incorporates convection heat (a fan that circulates hot air) to bake, roast, and even prepare pastries like a real oven. In short, it's in a different league.
Can a combination microwave really replace a conventional oven? Absolutely! For most everyday dishes, the results are stunning. A good convection model can easily roast a chicken, bake a cake, or perfectly brown a gratin. Its added advantage: ultra-fast preheating and reduced cooking times. Only high-precision baking purists will still find an advantage in a traditional oven, but for everyone else, the combination microwave is a remarkably effective solution.
What capacity should I choose for my combination microwave? It all depends on the size of your household and your cooking habits. Here are a few guidelines to help you: