Last Updated on March 4, 2024 by Mosabbir
Microwaves are essential kitchen appliances for reheating leftovers or preparing snacks like popcorn for movie nights. However, the abundance of options can make finding the right one challenging.
To simplify your decision-making process, we’ve tested microwaves, evaluating their design, features, and performance. Whether you’re a cooking enthusiast or a casual home chef, our selection of the Best Combination Microwave Oven caters to all needs.
Keep reading to discover the top-performing microwaves that not only deliver on functionality but also enhance your kitchen’s aesthetic appeal.
Our Top Picks
BEST OVERALL:
Panasonic NN-GD37HSBPQ at Amazon
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BEST INVESTMENT:
Samsung MC28H5013AS at Amazon
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BEST STANDARD:
Bosch Series 2 HMT75G451B at Amazon
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Best Overall
Panasonic NN-GD37HSBPQ Combination Microwave Oven
Our Ratings
Size 5/5 Features 4/5 Heating / Effectiveness 3.5/5 Value 3/5
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If you don’t need a combination microwave, then the NN-GD37HSBPQ might be the perfect purchase as it allows you to make the eatables crispy.
This model uses inverter technology to grill the chicken evenly or prepare the macaroni cheese without any cold spots.
Panasonic NN-GD37HSBPQ has a lot of functions to use, but it’s surprisingly easy to use. This appliance has a Quick 30 Seconds programme that does the needful without any efforts.
Then, the microwave has an Auto Defrost setting that defrosts your frozen minced chicken to perfection. Yes, the results while defrosting frozen ready meals were not as we expected.
The Panasonic microwave fits into any of the kitchens. Twelve auto programs assist you while making quick breakfasts. Its cooking capacity of 23 litres and 1000W power is sufficient for a small or medium-sized family.
Overall, NN-GD37HSBPQ could be a perfect choice if you enjoy grilled eatables like vegetables, meat or bacon. Read Panasonic NN-GD37HSBPQ review.
Best Investment
Samsung MC28H5013AS Combination Microwave With Grill
Our Ratings
Size 4.5/5 Features 4/5 Heating / Effectiveness 3/5 Value 3/5
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Our second recommendation is a combination microwave, which sets itself apart from other models due to various features that are not available in its competitors. Samsung MC28H5013AS comes with a Power Defrost function that defrosts frozen meat, vegetables or any other food items quickly without leaving any cold spots. So that you can cook them directly after defrost.
The combination microwave has a deodorization feature that eliminates any odours resulting due to the cooking ingredients. It leaves the interior fresh for a happy kitchen. Apart from that, you can power on or off its turntable. You can also take it out to make full use of the available space.
Samsung MC28H5013AS has a cooking capacity of 28 litres, which is suitable for small and large families. Then, it has a ceramic enamel interior, which is very easy to clean. This model also has an eco-mode, which uses less standby power and reduces your electricity bill. Read Samsung MC28H5013AS review.
Best Standard
Bosch Series 2 HMT75G451B Brushed Steel Freestanding Combi Microwave
Our Ratings
Size 4/5 Features 4.5/5 Heating / Effectiveness 3/5 Value 3.5/5
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Bosch HMT75G451B is a compact freestanding microwave that’s available with a capacity of 17 litres, five power levels, and 11 programs, including three cooking and four defrost functions. In addition, it has a memory function that saves the setting of one particular dish that you reheat frequently.
The 800W microwave by Bosch performs well. We tested it by preparing and reheating some soups, ready meals, and jacket potatoes, and it gave us the desired results. This kitchen appliance is easy to use. However, the microwave’s capacity is lower than other models, but it’s big enough to accommodate most of your dinner plates. Read Bosch HMT75G451B full review.
Sharp R764KM Combi Grill Microwave
Our Ratings
Size 4/5 Features 4/5 Heating / Effectiveness 3/5 Value 3/5
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If you want to enjoy effortless cooking, then try the Sharp R764KM. The maximum power of this microwave is 900W, and its cooking capacity is 25 litres. This model has pre-built defrost and reheat options. Plus, there is also a 1000W grill that you can use to prepare various other dishes.
Sharp R764KM is very easy to operate because of its kitchen timer, white LED display and ten options to auto cook.
So, you can follow a wide range of recipes based on vegetables, fish or meat. Apart from that, it has one-touch start buttons that can get your meal ready within a few minutes. Read Sharp R764KM full review.
Igenix IG2590 Digital Combi Combination Microwave – 1150
Our Ratings
Size 4/5 Features 3.5/5 Heating / Effectiveness 3/5 Value 3.5/5
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You will like the compact size of Igenix IG2590, which helps you save some precious countertop space. So, it could be a perfect choice if you own a small kitchen.
Also, the combination microwave operates without making much noise, which is helpful if you are living in studio flats.
Igenix IG2590 has a black appearance and mirror glass door, which makes it stylish for any kitchen.
Then, it has the usual ten auto-cook menus that include popcorn, pasta, potato, pizza and meat. This microwave has a cooking capacity of 25 litres. So, you can easily prepare meals for a small or large family.
Using the Igenix microwave, you can grill, roast and microwave any of the food items at 1100W, 2500W and 900W, respectively.
Then, it has a Quickstart function that rapidly reheats or defrosts your eatables. Also, this appliance has multi-stage cooking that allows you to follow two cooking sequences simultaneously.
For instance, you can cook something and defrost the meat at the same time. Read Igenix IG2590 full review.
Bosch HMT72G450B Serie 4 Freestanding Combi Microwave Oven
Our Ratings
Size 4/5 Features 3.5/5 Heating / Effectiveness 3.5/5 Value 3/5
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As you can expect from Bosch HMT72G450B is a high-quality microwave oven that’s finished with brushed steel. It has only two control knobs and a button to start the cooking process. You can use the top dial to set the temperature or mode, while the lower one is to specify the tie period.
Both the knobs are labelled properly, which means you can operate the microwave without any hassles. Plus, this appliance has a power of 800W in the microwave, and it comes with a 100W quartz grill function. However, its cooking capacity of 17 litres is comparatively lower than other models. Read Bosch HMT72G450B full review.
Toshiba 900 w 23L Grill Microwave Oven – MW2-AG23PF(BK)
Our Ratings
Size 4/5 Features 3.5/5 Heating / Effectiveness 3/5 Value 3/5
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Toshiba is one of the oldest and reputable brands renowned for high-quality manufacturing household and kitchen appliances. The MW2-AG23PF combination microwave oven belongs to the same lot. So, if you need a straightforward cooking appliance without any unwanted weight or features, then it could be the right choice.
Toshiba MW2-AG23PF(BK) is a combination microwave, which means it has all the microwave and grill functions. Still, this model available at a pocket-friendly price tag. It uses 800W in the microwave mode and 1050W in the grill to cook or reheat fast without leaving any cold patches.
This microwave has five adjustable power levels to boost performance while heating, defrosting, roasting, cooking, and baking. It has eight pre-programmed options that you can use to prepare pizza, pasta, vegetables, beverages, popcorn, fish and meat. Above all, this kitchen appliance is easy to use due to its humble knob controls. Read Toshiba MW2-AG23PF(BK) full review.
Sharp YC-MG02U-S 800W Digital Touch Control Microwave
Our Ratings
Size 4/5 Features 3/5 Heating / Effectiveness 3.5/5 Value 3/5
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Sharp YC-MG02U-S is a medium-sized but efficient microwave that can easily fit into a small kitchen. Available at a reasonable price, it uses 800W for microwave and 1000W for grill functions. Apart from that, there is a digital control panel, which makes its usage easy.
The digital microwave has a modern and stylish appearance that complements other appliances in your kitchen. You will like that its timer works as a kitchen clock when you are not using it.
You can also use this LED display as a stopwatch while cooking other meals on the stove.
This Sharp microwave comes with a cooking capacity of 20 litres. Apart from that, it has eight auto-cook programs and 11 power levels. Overall, this appliance could be a suitable investment if you live in a small household. Read Sharp YC-MG02U-S full review.
Russell Hobbs RHM2031 20 L 800 W Digital Grill Microwave
Our Ratings
Size 4/5 Features 3.5/5 Heating / Effectiveness 3/5 Value 3/5
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The grill microwave by Russell Hobbs is currently available at a pocket-friendly price tag. RHM2031 uses 800W of power in microwave mode, while it has 1000 for grill function.
With such ability, this microwave grills your eatables very quickly when compared to solo variants.
Apart from that, it has a cooking capacity of 20 litres. So, this digital grill microwave is suitable for compact kitchen countertops.
Russell Hobbs RHM2031 comes with an automatic defrost function, making it easier for you to defrost frozen meat or vegetables.
You can use this feature by entering the weight of any frozen item. Plus, there are some auto-cook functions that you can use to prepare popcorn, pizza, fish and many other dishes without any hassles. Read Russell Hobbs RHM2031 Full Review.
Sharp R82STMA Combination Microwave
Our Ratings
Size 4/5 Features 3.5/5 Heating / Effectiveness 3.5/5 Value 3/5
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If you need an easy to use combination microwave, then Sharp R82STMA deserves your attention. Labelled buttons and menus make it straightforward to operate.
Plus, this variant gives you the best reheating and defrosting results. We tested it by defrosting some chicken breasts, and the results were unexpectedly favourable. We were unable to find even a small patch of ice.
Sharp R82STMA make your life simple with the help of 10 auto menu programs.
Then, it has a cooking capacity of 25 litres. So, this model can easily accommodate all your dishes, containers and even a 10-inch pizza. In other words, it’s a high-quality combination microwave without a hefty price tag. Read Sharp R82STMA full review.
Are Grills in Combi Microwaves Any Good?
A traditional microwave cooks foods as usual, but those with grill factors can roast and make the eatables crispy. It can cook meals that you can only prepare with the help of a stovetop or oven.
Some grill microwaves also come with a convection oven feature, which can bake without using any microwaves.
If you are unaware, an oven cooks by circulating hot air inside the chamber. So, a grill microwave is a decent purchase for users who enjoys grilled foods. It’s also suitable if you own a small kitchen.
What is the Difference Between Solo, Grill and Combi Microwaves?
Solo/basic microwave ovens are standard cooking appliances that can cook, reheat, and defrost your eatables. But, do not expect much from this variant of the microwave. You will not find any functions to roast or bake.
A solo microwave uses microwaves to heat your meals. These waves vibrate the water molecules inside your food, resulting in heat. Keep in mind that you can only use microwave-safe plastic dishes and containers inside these appliances.
Overall, a solo model is affordable and easy to use but has limited functions. You can try one of these models if you only need the essential functions of heating and defrosting.
As we discussed earlier, grill microwaves can grill or roast apart from reheating and defrosting.
Combi microwaves sit at the top because these kitchen machines include all the features of solo and grill variants. In addition, such an appliance also has the functions of a convection oven.
How do I Choose a Combi Grill Microwave oven?
Do you know what is the biggest problem while choosing a microwave oven with a grill? All the available options are similar and hence, it tough to decide which one is perfect according to your requirements. So, let’s know some of the factors you should consider while browsing the best microwave with grill.
Appearance: Let’s start with one of the most common points. If you look at the microwave and you don’t go, “yes, it’s what I always wanted”, then browse other models. We know that this is only a kitchen appliance, but there is no point in paying for something you don’t like. It might not give you positive vibes in the future.
Size: As you can understand after reading the reviews, microwave ovens with grill are available with various cooking capacities. So, choose something that can accommodate all the dishes and containers. Be extra cautious if you have a large family.
Power: This could be confusing for beginners, but power is generally mentioned in watts. The choice depends upon your requirements. For instance, you need a powerful microwave to cook meat or chicken. Well, a 600W microwave is perfect for reheating and defrosting. An 800W appliance can deal with almost all the light-duty microwave dishes. Similarly, a microwave with 1000W of power can cook a meal for you.
Cooking modes: You will find two categories of microwaves in the UK market; grill only and grill and convection. The latter works similar to an oven and circulated hot air inside the chamber to prepare your meals. However, both the functions at once will cost you more than just a grill microwave. So, think about what’s essential for you and choose accordingly.
Budget: Decide a price range and do not choose something that has a higher cost. Check the models we discussed above, and you will notice that the prices vary according to the make, model and features. So, pick a microwave that can fit on your countertop and work according to your requirements.
Questions You Might Ask
Which microwave is best for baking and grilling?
Convection or combi microwaves are the best when you need to grill, bake, fry or roast. When compared to solo microwaves, convection models are more efficient but also a little expensive. For instance, Samsung MC28H5013AS is one of the best microwaves for baking and grilling, but has a higher price tag than solo models.
What can you cook on a microwave grill?
A microwave grill can cook food items that you can only prepare on a stovetop or oven. Primarily, these microwaves are used for cooking frozen foods, grilled chicken, beef, fish, sandwich, veg stew, potato, buttermilk and many other recipes depending upon the requirements.
Can you make toast in a microwave grill?
Yes, you can make a toast on a microwave grill. Take a slice of bread and a paper towel. Place the bread on top of the towel inside your microwave. Close the appliance’s door and let it’s run for 30 seconds. Take out the break afterwards and check. If the bread not crispy enough, then put it inside the microwave for another 30 seconds.
How do you grill meat in a microwave?
Place the pieces of meat on the grill pan and close its lid, if there is one. Microwave the meat for 5 minutes on high settings for steaks. For medium crispy results, cook the meat for 6 to 7 minutes. If you want to enjoy wholly grilled chicken, then grill for 10 minutes. Do not forget to turn the steaks halfway during the grilling time, especially if your pan does not have a double grill function.
What is the meaning of grill in microwave?
The grill function in a microwave can cook food items that are only possible using a stovetop or oven. Such a kitchen appliance can grill the eatables and makes them brown as well as crispy. Some of these devices also have convection mode, allowing you to bake without using the microwave function.
Can I grill in a convection microwave?
A convection microwave can execute all the functions of solo and grill variants. So, a convection microwave can grill, roast, bake and even makes the food items crispy.
What is double grill microwave?
Double grill microwaves cook food items on both sides without any user’s interference. With such an appliance, you don’t have to turn things repeatedly while grilling.
Bottom line
We hope that this guide will help you to find the best combination microwave oven and grill. Try to find something that can cover all your requirements and is available in the budget. If you face any confusion, check the factors you need to consider while purchasing such a kitchen appliance. Happy grilling.
