Households short on space
If you want to cook some dishes, reheat leftovers and defrost food using a single cavity, a combination oven is worth comparing with the space two separate appliances would take up.
Who are these options for?
People who often cook in the oven
If your dishes need a suitably sized cavity or several cooking levels, start by checking the oven’s specifications. UFC-Que Choisir says that the air circulation in fan ovens allows you to cook on several levels.
Households that often reheat portions
If reheating and defrosting are part of your daily routine, consider these quick tasks separately from the results you expect when cooking dishes in the oven.
What should you prioritise?
Start with the task that matters most to you, then check the functions and space requirements for the model you’re considering.
Microwave and convection combination oven
Consider this if: you want one appliance for oven cooking, reheating and defrosting.
Bear in mind: cavity size and cooking results vary from model to model. Tests by the French National Consumer Institute and ADEME do not show that combination ovens work better for every dish.
Convection oven
Consider this if: oven cooking, space for your dishes and the option to use several levels matter more than built-in microwave functions.
Bear in mind: a convection oven cannot replace a microwave for quickly reheating and defrosting food.
Separate oven and microwave
Consider this if: you want a dedicated oven for cooking and a separate appliance for quick tasks.
Bear in mind: you’ll need space for two appliances, although you can replace each one separately.
| Criteria | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Reheating and defrosting | Whether the exact model has microwave and defrost settings; appliance dimensions. | If I often reheat portions, I’d rather not add more appliances, while still being able to cook some dishes. Around 42% of consumers would make having a single appliance their priority. |
| Oven cooking | Cavity capacity, usable dimensions and practical cooking levels. | If I regularly cook dishes in the oven, I want a cavity that suits my cooking first and foremost, even if I need another appliance for reheating. This would be the priority for around 33% of consumers. |
| Flexibility and energy use | Space available for one or two appliances; stated energy use for comparable settings and uses. | If I want to keep or replace my appliances separately, I also need to consider how much space they take up. Around 25% of consumers would prioritise this flexibility. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Assuming a combination oven uses less energy for every dish
Tests by the French National Consumer Institute and ADEME found that results vary depending on the dish and model, with no overall advantage that applies to all combination ovens.
Compare the settings you’ll actually use. To assess energy use, look for measurements based on comparable tasks.
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Comparing only the number of functions
A compact combination oven and a more spacious oven may not suit the same cooking needs. Cavity size, usable levels and where the appliance will go all matter too.
Measure the housing or worktop, then check the dimensions, capacity and installation instructions for the model you’ve chosen.
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Using the same cookware for every setting
Cookware suitable for oven cooking may not be suitable for microwave mode; metal utensils and some plastics can cause problems in particular.
Check that your cookware is compatible and follow the appliance instructions before switching settings.
Brands to consider
Bosch
Bosch offers compact built-in ovens with microwave functions. They’re worth comparing if an integrated appliance suits your plans.
- Bosch says the CMG7241B1 has a 45 L cavity and measures 455 × 594 × 548 mm.
- These dimensions apply to this specific model. Check your housing measurements and the instructions in its manual.
Whirlpool
Whirlpool’s range lets you compare freestanding and built-in combination models if you want one appliance for several tasks.
- Whirlpool offers appliances for reheating, defrosting and cooking; the available functions depend on the model.
- Check the exact model before relying on a particular function or installation format.
Samsung
Samsung convection microwaves are worth comparing if you often reheat and defrost food and want a combination appliance.
- Samsung lists a 28 L cavity and microwave, grill and convection settings for the MC28H5015AW.
- Before choosing this model, check whether it’s still available, which accessories are included and whether its functions suit your needs.
Appliances to compare
These products let you compare two combination ovens, which bring several tasks together in one appliance, with a convection oven for prioritising oven cooking. Check the dimensions and functions of each model against your available space and the meals you usually prepare.
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SHARP YC-MC422AE-SB, 42 L combination oven
Worth comparing if you want one appliance for reheating, defrosting and cooking. Its stated capacity is 42 L; check the manual to see how much clearance to leave around the appliance.
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LG MJ3965ACS, 39 L combination oven, black
Worth comparing if you want one appliance for cooking as well as quick reheating and defrosting. Its stated capacity is 39 L; check the dimensions and required clearances before choosing a place for it.
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Bosch HBA514BB3, 71 L built-in oven
Worth comparing if oven cooking and cavity capacity are your priorities. The product name indicates a 71 L capacity and 3D hot air setting. If you also want to reheat or defrost using a microwave, check how you’ll cover those tasks. Confirm the housing dimensions before installation.
Frequently asked questions
Is a combination oven always a better choice than a convection oven?
No. It depends on the tasks you want to combine and the dishes you cook. In tests of four combination ovens and ten built-in convection ovens, the French National Consumer Institute and ADEME found that results vary depending on the dishes and models, with no general advantage for combination ovens.
What should I check before choosing a built-in model?
Compare the dimensions of the housing with those of the exact model and follow its installation instructions, particularly for clearance and ventilation. Don’t assume an appliance has the same requirements as another model in the same range.
Can annual energy-use estimates predict how much my new oven will use?
No. ADEME’s figures are estimates for different types of appliance based on assumed usage, not measurements for the model you’re considering. ADEME gives figures of 130 kWh per year for a 63 L electric oven used for 187 cycles a year, and 40 kWh per year for a microwave. These figures can’t be used to calculate how much a combination oven will use for your dishes.
What warranty applies to an appliance bought from a professional seller in France?
Under guidance from the French Directorate-General for Competition Policy, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control, the statutory guarantee of conformity applies in France to new, second-hand and refurbished goods sold by a professional to a private individual. It is separate from any commercial guarantee. If the appliance is faulty or doesn’t match its description, contact the seller to discuss the remedies available.