Tired of cluttered countertops with a microwave, air fryer, and toaster oven taking up space? The Breville 3-in-1 microwave combines these appliances into one powerful machine. In this guide, we review the top Breville combos and alternatives to help you decide if they are right for your kitchen. For more air fryer options, check out our Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer review.
What to Look for in a 3-in-1 Microwave
Cooking Functions
A true 3-in-1 microwave should handle air frying, convection baking, microwaving, and often grilling. Breville models like the Combi Wave use Element iQ technology to steer power precisely, while Toshiba’s Optichef series offers inverter technology for consistent heating. Make sure the unit you choose includes all the functions you actually use.
Heating and Crisping Performance
Even heating and crispy results are hallmarks of a quality 3-in-1. We verified that the Breville Combi Wave delivers golden fries and evenly baked goods, thanks to its power smoothing inverter. The Toshiba model also impressed with its Speedy Combi mode, which combines microwave and convection for faster cooking without drying out food.
User Interface and Presets
Smart presets save time and guesswork. Breville microwaves feature a shortcuts panel inside the door for one-touch tasks like melting chocolate or reheating pizza. Look for a model with intuitive controls, a clear display, and a quiet soft-close door, which many Breville units offer.
Countertop Footprint
Consider your available space. The Breville Compact Wave Soft Close Microwave has a smaller 0.9 cu. ft. capacity, ideal for tight kitchens, while the Combi Wave offers a larger interior for roasting whole chickens. Measure your counter before buying. For more buying tips, see our buying guides.
Compare with other air fryer ovens in our Cuisinart air fryer review or read our Breville air fryer toaster oven reviews.
Final Thoughts
After evaluating the top models, the Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave, Air Fryer stands out as the ultimate all-in-one solution for busy home cooks, delivering exceptional air frying, convection baking, and precise microwaving with smart presets. If you want a more affordable alternative that still performs well, the TOSHIBA Optichef Series Inverter Countertop offers inverter technology and a broad range of auto menus at a lower price point. Both models are excellent choices depending on your budget and counter space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the air fryer function without preheating?
Most Breville 3-in-1 microwaves, such as the Combi Wave, allow you to skip preheating for air frying, but for best results we recommend using the preheat cycle. The Toshiba model also has a preheat option for the convection mode. Always check the manual for your specific model.
How does the inverter microwave differ from a standard one?
Inverter technology delivers continuous, even power rather than cycling on and off. This means more consistent heating, gentler defrosting, and better results for delicate foods like chocolate or fish. Breville and Toshiba both use inverter systems in their premium models.
Is the Breville 3-in-1 easy to clean?
Yes, most models come with a crumb tray and a stainless steel interior that wipes clean easily. The air fryer basket and crisp pan are dishwasher safe. The soft-close door helps prevent food splatters from escaping during cooking.
Which model is best for small kitchens?
The Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close has a 0.9 cu. ft. footprint and is 80% quieter than standard microwaves, making it perfect for apartments or dorm rooms. Despite its compact size, it still offers air frying and convection functions.
