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Ever wondered if a combi microwave is really worth the hype? I did too. That’s why I decided to try one for myself—and I’ve learned a lot along the way. In this article, I’ll share the real Pros and Cons of Combination Microwaves, based on my everyday use in a small UK kitchen.
From cooking roast chicken on a weeknight to figuring out what “combi 1” actually means, I’ll break it all down in plain English. If you’re thinking about buying one or just curious, I’ll help you decide if it’s the right fit for you. Let’s get started!
What Is a Combination Microwaves?
A combination microwave oven, or combi microwave, is a clever kitchen appliance that does more than just reheat leftovers. It mixes the speed of a microwave with the power of a traditional oven—and sometimes a grill too. So instead of having three bulky appliances, you get one that can microwave, bake, grill, and roast, all in one compact machine.
A combi microwave oven is a space-saving alternative to having a separate microwave, grill, and convection oven. It’s ideal for small kitchens, busy households, or anyone who wants flexible cooking without clutter.
When I first got mine, I was surprised by how many settings it had. The two I kept seeing were Combi 1 and Combi 2, and honestly, I had no clue what they meant at first. Here’s a quick breakdown, especially helpful if you’re in the UK:
- Combi 1 = Microwave + Grill
This setting is great for things like cheese toasties or jacket potatoes. You get the speed of a microwave but with that golden, crispy top you’d expect from a grill. - Combi 2 = Microwave + Convection Oven
Think of this one as your roast dinner hero. It cooks your food evenly and faster than a standard oven, while still giving it a proper baked finish.
Combi 1 and Combi 2 let you speed up cooking while still achieving that oven-baked or grilled result. You get the best of both worlds—speed and taste.
Now, I won’t lie—there was a bit of a learning curve. The first time I used Combi 2, I tried to roast a whole chicken… and forgot to reduce the time. The outside looked perfect, but the inside was still pink! Lesson learned: start with smaller meals and always check the manual—or better yet, do a test run.
Once I got the hang of it, I started loving how quick and versatile it was. From crispy fish fingers to baked sweet potatoes, it became my go-to, especially after work when I was too tired to cook from scratch.
Pros of Combination Microwaves
Space-Saving Convenience
One of the biggest wins for me was how much counter space I got back. My old setup had a separate microwave on the worktop, and I had to bend down to use the full-size oven. With the combi microwave, I ditched both. It sits neatly in one corner and does everything I need.
A combination microwave oven saves space by replacing your traditional oven, grill, and microwave with one appliance. It’s a great solution for small UK kitchens or compact flats where space is tight.
I live in a modest semi with a fairly small kitchen, and honestly, this one change made the whole space feel more open. I even had room for a small coffee station where the old microwave used to live. Little wins like that make a big difference day to day.
Versatility in Cooking
What surprised me most was how many things I could cook in it. I’ve grilled cheese toasties, roasted veggies, reheated lasagna, and even baked banana bread. One week I cooked a jacket potato using Combi 1, then used Combi 2 the next night to roast salmon fillets with crispy skin—delicious and done in under 15 minutes.
A combi microwave lets you microwave, grill, bake, and roast—all in one appliance. It’s ideal for quick dinners or heating up leftovers without losing texture or flavour.
The built-in grill crisps up the top, while the convection setting bakes evenly—great for when you want that “oven feel” without the long preheat time. It’s like having a full oven on fast-forward.
Energy and Time Efficiency
Let’s be honest—turning on a full oven just to heat one meal feels like overkill. That’s where the combi microwave really shines. It heats up quickly, cooks faster, and uses way less energy. My weekday meals are often done in half the time, and I’ve noticed a slight drop in my electricity bill too.
Combination microwave ovens are more energy-efficient and faster than traditional ovens, especially for small portions. You save both time and money without compromising on quality.
I no longer need to wait for the oven to preheat or guess when something’s done. The microwave part speeds up cooking, and the oven or grill finishes it off beautifully.
Ideal for Small Households
If you’re cooking for one or two people, a combi microwave makes so much sense. I live with my partner, and we rarely need a giant tray of food. The combi fits our lifestyle—compact meals, less washing up, and quicker cleanup.
Combination microwaves are perfect for singles or couples who want efficient, everyday cooking without a full-size oven.
It’s especially helpful when you just want to pop something in quickly without fuss. For us, it’s become the most-used appliance in the house—more than the kettle, and that’s saying something in a British home!
Cons of Combination Microwaves
Learning Curve and Complexity
A combination microwave can be tricky at first. It has more buttons, more modes, and more ways to mess up your dinner. I still remember the first time I tried a roast chicken. It looked golden on the outside but was raw in the middle. I had used the Combi 2 setting but forgot to adjust the time. Oops.
It takes practice to get it right. If you’re used to a normal microwave, you’ll need to read the manual—and maybe Google a few things. But once you get the hang of it, it gets much easier. Start small. Try a baked potato or some toasties before jumping into full roasts.
Limited Cooking Capacity
These ovens are small inside. Great for couples, not so much for big families. You can cook one dish at a time, maybe two if they’re small. Forget about doing a big tray of cookies or a full roast dinner with all the sides.
It’s fine for daily use, but not for parties. If you often cook for four or more, you’ll miss the space of a full oven.
Uneven Cooking Results
Sometimes food cooks unevenly. That’s because the microwave heats from the inside, while the grill or convection heats from the outside. If you don’t stop and stir, one side might be hot and the other cold.
Here’s a tip that works: turn or stir your food halfway through. It takes a few extra seconds but helps a lot. I learned that trick after a sad lasagna with cold corners.
Higher Upfront Cost
Combi microwaves cost more than basic ones. Mine was about double the price of a standard model. That might sound steep, but when you think about what it replaces—a microwave, an oven, and a grill—it starts to make sense.
So is it worth buying a combination microwave? For me, yes. I saved space and cook more often now. But if you already use a full oven every day, you might not need one.
Are Combination Microwaves Worth It?
Yes—for the right person. If you live in a small home, hate waiting for ovens to preheat, or want one appliance that can do it all, a combination microwave is a game-changer.
My Honest Verdict
Using mine daily for over a year, I can say it’s absolutely been worth it. I’ve made everything from crispy fish fingers to roast veg and banana bread—all in one compact corner of my kitchen. It’s fast, flexible, and frees up counter space I didn’t even realise I was missing.
If you’re wondering “Are combination microwaves worth it?”—my experience says yes, especially for small kitchens and busy days.
Sure, there’s a learning curve. I messed up more than one meal early on. But once I figured out the basics—like what Combi 1 actually does—it became second nature. It’s now the first thing I reach for when I get home from work hungry and tired.
Who Would Benefit Most?
Busy people, students, and small families will love a combi microwave. If you don’t cook massive meals every day but want good food fast, it’s ideal.
- Living in a flat? It saves you space.
- Always on the go? It saves you time.
- Don’t like dry leftovers? It reheats without ruining texture.
This one appliance handles microwave dinners, grilled cheese toasties, and Sunday roasts—no drama, no waiting.
Who Might Not Need One?
If you have a big family and often cook multiple dishes at once, a combi microwave might feel too small. You can only cook one or two things at a time, and large trays won’t fit. Also, if you already love your full oven and use it every day, this might not add much value.
So, is it right for everyone? Not quite—but it’s perfect for people like me who want fast, simple meals in a small kitchen.
Quick Checklist: Is It Worth It?
✅ You have a small kitchen or limited space
✅ You mostly cook for 1–3 people
✅ You want to save time on weekday meals
✅ You like versatile appliances
✅ You’re okay learning a few new settings
❌ You cook for big groups regularly
❌ You need to bake multiple trays at once
❌ You already use your full oven daily
How Long Should a Combi Microwave Last?
A good combination microwave should last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, as long as you take care of it properly. That’s not just marketing fluff—most brands in the UK design these appliances to handle daily use for years. Of course, how long yours lasts really depends on how you use it (and how well you treat it!).
Mine’s been going strong for just over a year now, and it still feels brand new. I use it nearly every day—for everything from jacket potatoes to baked salmon—and it hasn’t let me down yet. No weird noises, no error codes, and it still cooks like a champ. If it lasts even half a decade, I’ll call that a win.
How to Make It Last Longer? Start with the Basics
Here’s what I’ve learned: a little care goes a long way. Think of your combi microwave like a car. If you ignore the weird sounds or never clean it, it’s going to wear out fast. But treat it right, and it’ll serve you well for years.
- Keep it clean. Wipe it out regularly—food splatters can build up and affect performance. I do a quick clean with warm soapy water once a week and a deeper clean once a month.
- Let it breathe. These machines need ventilation. Don’t shove it into a tight corner or pile stuff on top. Mine has a few inches of space on each side, and that really helps keep it cool.
- Use it often. Oddly enough, regular use is better than letting it sit unused for weeks. It’s like a bike—gets smoother the more you ride it.
Quick Tip for Longevity: Always wait a few seconds after cooking before opening the door. It helps regulate the temperature inside and protects the components.
If you’re wondering “how long should a combi microwave last?”, the answer is: up to a decade, with a little love and care. Based on my experience, it’s one of those appliances that rewards you the more you use it properly. So yes, it’s an investment—but it’s one that pays off every single meal.
Tips for Choosing the Right Combi Microwave
Not all combination microwaves are created equal—and picking the right one can save you a lot of stress (and burnt dinners). After a ton of Googling, a few regrets, and some “why didn’t I think of that?” moments, here’s what I’ve learned.
1. Size Matters More Than You Think
Make sure it fits both your space and your dishes.
Before I bought mine, I didn’t realise how many combi microwaves are deceptively small inside. They might look big on the outside, but try fitting a full dinner plate or a square baking dish inside—and suddenly, you’re playing microwave Tetris.
Tip: Check the internal dimensions, not just the litres. I went with a 30L model, but more importantly, it had a wide turntable that fit my lasagna dish. Measure your favourite trays or bowls and compare.
If you’re in a flat or sharing a kitchen, think compact. But don’t go too small—some entry-level models don’t even fit a standard dinner plate.
2. Look for the Right Functions
Get the features you’ll actually use—not just the fancy ones.
Some combi microwaves come with every button under the sun—defrost, reheat, grill, bake, pizza mode, yogurt maker (yes, really). But honestly? I mostly use Combi 1, Combi 2, and the standard microwave.
Make sure it has:
- A grill function for crisping (perfect for cheese toasties).
- A convection oven mode for baking and roasting.
- An auto-cook menu that’s actually useful (some are too vague or just weird).
Real tip: Skip models that don’t let you manually adjust grill or convection temperature—you’ll end up frustrated.
3. Power and Wattage: Don’t Skimp
Look for 900W or higher for the microwave, and 1000W+ for the grill.
A weak microwave takes longer and can cook unevenly. Mine has 900W microwave power and a 1200W grill—and that combo hits the sweet spot. Jacket potatoes in 10 minutes. Crispy tops without burning.
If you’re roasting or baking, the convection power should be around 2000W or close. That means you’ll get proper browning and even heat, like a real oven.
4. Go for Trusted UK Brands
Stick with brands known for reliability and customer support.
I bought a Panasonic combi microwave, and honestly, I’ve been chuffed with it. Solid build, intuitive buttons, and no hiccups after a year of near-daily use. Other good UK options include:
- Sharp – known for reliability and good value.
- Sage by Heston Blumenthal – a bit pricier, but top-quality and stylish.
- Russell Hobbs – budget-friendly with decent reviews.
- Samsung – sleek, modern, and techy if you like smart features.
Quick tip: Read UK-based reviews on John Lewis, Argos, or AO.com—don’t just rely on Amazon. Those sites usually have better info on local models.
My Personal Pick (And Why It Works for Me)
I chose the Panasonic NN-CD58JSBPQ—and here’s why.
It had everything I needed: good internal space, powerful grill, convection fan, and a clean stainless steel design that didn’t look out of place in my small kitchen. I’ve roasted chicken, baked banana bread, grilled halloumi—you name it. It’s become the MVP of my kitchen.
What sealed the deal? The intuitive controls and reliable heat. No confusing symbols. No fiddly dials. Just set it, cook it, and enjoy.
In summary:
When choosing the right combination microwave, focus on fit, function, power, and brand. Think about your space, your habits, and what will genuinely make cooking easier—not just what looks flashy.
And if you’re still not sure, pop into a store and press a few buttons first. Or ask a mate who owns one. That real-world feel tells you more than any spec sheet.
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FAQ:
What are the disadvantages of a microwave oven combo?
Combination microwaves are incredibly handy, but they’re not perfect. Here are the main downsides:
- Price: They cost more than standard microwaves—sometimes double.
- Size: They’re bulkier and need more counter or cabinet space.
- Learning curve: Figuring out the different settings can take time.
- Cleaning: The grill and convection parts can get messy and need more frequent cleaning.
- Limited capacity: Even large models are still smaller than traditional ovens, so cooking for a big group can be a squeeze.
If you’re short on space or love a gadget that does it all, these might be minor issues. But it’s worth weighing them up before buying.
What are the disadvantages of a combi oven?
The drawbacks of combi ovens are similar to those of combi microwaves:
- Complex controls: Multi-step settings can be confusing at first.
- Slower than expected: While faster than ovens, they’re not always quicker than a microwave alone.
- Noise: The fan can be loud, especially on convection mode.
- Can dry out food: Without careful timing, baked items can lose moisture.
- Not ideal for large roasts or baking batches: Interior space is limited.
That said, for small kitchens or solo households, these cons might not be dealbreakers.
Is it worth buying a combination microwave?
It depends on your kitchen setup and how you cook. For me, the answer was a definite yes.
Pros:
- Saves time and energy
- Replaces multiple appliances (grill, oven, microwave)
- Ideal for small kitchens or busy households
Cons:
- More expensive upfront
- Requires learning how to use each mode properly
If you’re cooking for one to four people, want more flexibility without taking up loads of space, and like experimenting with meals, it’s absolutely worth it. If you only ever reheat leftovers, a regular microwave might do just fine.
How long should a combi microwave last?
Most combination microwaves last 7 to 10 years with regular use. The exact lifespan depends on how often you use the grill and convection settings and how well you maintain it.
Here are some tips to make yours last longer:
- Wipe it down after each use to avoid grease build-up.
- Avoid slamming the door—this can damage the latch.
- Let it cool down after convection cooking before closing the door tightly.
- Descale it if you live in a hard water area (especially models with steam settings).
With a bit of care, you’ll get years of reliable use.
What is combi 1 and combi 2 in microwave?
Combi 1 and Combi 2 are preset cooking modes found on many UK combination microwaves. They vary by brand, but here’s a typical breakdown:
- Combi 1: Uses microwave + grill. Perfect for things like cheese on toast or browning the top of lasagna.
- Combi 2: Uses microwave + convection oven. Ideal for roast potatoes, baked chicken, or cooking something from frozen that also needs a crispy finish.
Check your manual, but generally:
- Combi 1 = crisp and cook
- Combi 2 = bake and cook
These settings help speed up cooking while still giving you that golden, oven-finished touch.
Are combination microwaves worth it?
For most people, yes—especially if:
- You have a small kitchen or live in a flat
- You want to save energy (they preheat fast and cook quickly)
- You need a second oven or backup for busy days
They’re not for everyone. If you never bake or grill and just want to reheat food, a basic microwave will do. But if you want to cook full meals without using a full-size oven, a combi microwave is a brilliant investment.
Conclusion:
So, what’s the verdict on combi microwave ovens? They’re handy, space-saving, and can do a lot more than a basic microwave. You can reheat, grill, and even bake — all in one machine. That’s a big plus if you’ve got a small kitchen or you’re short on time. But they’re not perfect. They cost more, can be tricky to figure out at first, and don’t give you as much space as a full oven.
Would I buy one again? Yes, I would — but only because I use it a lot. It suits my lifestyle and saves me time. If you mostly reheat leftovers or use the microwave for porridge, it might not be worth the extra spend.
Still unsure? Try using one at a friend’s house or read a few reviews online. It’s the best way to see if a combi microwave fits your cooking style.