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What Is a Speed Oven? Pros, Cons, and Must-Know Details

by Orville's Home Appliances

Front view of a modern kitchen with Wolf stainless steel appliances including a speed oven, a wall oven, and a rangetop.

When you have a busy lifestyle, you don't always have time to stand over a stove to get meals cooked for you and the family. Sure, you could do food prep but even that takes a long time to complete. What you need is a speed oven to cook or even heat food quickly which is ideal for those who are in a rush.

So, what is a speed oven and what can it do? We've answered these questions in our guide below. We discuss the pros and cons of speed ovens and tips on how to choose one for your kitchen. Plus, we've provided detailed reviews on the best speed ovens from top brands like Wolf, Bosch, and Café.

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What Is a Speed Oven?

Front view of two speed ovens built into a kitchen island

A speed oven is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines convection cooking with microwave technology. This dual-function design allows it to prepare food faster than a traditional oven while still achieving the browning, crisping, and texture associated with conventional cooking.

It works with convection fans that circulate hot air for even heat distribution, while microwave energy heats the food’s interior quickly. Unlike a standard microwave, which only heats through electromagnetic waves, a speed oven delivers both efficiency and cooking precision, so it's ideal for baking, roasting, and broiling.

Speed ovens can be a practical replacement for a microwave, particularly in kitchens with limited space. For example, a built in speed oven integrates seamlessly into cabinetry to save counter space and give you a sleek, modern look.

Front view of a modern kitchen with a bosch speed oven and wall oven1

Types of speed ovens include countertop models, built-in units, and those with smart features for automated cooking. Compared to microwaves, speed ovens have enhanced cooking flexibility, but at a higher price point and with more complex operation.

Pros & Cons of Speed Ovens

So, what is a speed oven and what are its incentives? Well, their hybrid design gives you both versatility and efficiency, but it’s important to weigh the advantages and drawbacks of this type of oven so you can decide if it’s the right choice for you.

Pros

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Faster Cooking Times

Combines convection and microwave power to cook meals more quickly than a traditional oven.

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Even Heating Results

Circulating hot air ensures food is cooked evenly, with better browning and crisping.

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Space-Saving Design

Has multiple functions in one unit, ideal for smaller kitchens or those wanting to reduce appliance clutter.

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No Preheating Required

Cuts down on prep time, as many speed ovens don't require preheating like conventional ovens.

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Versatility

Suitable for a wide range of dishes, from roasts to baked goods, with improved taste and texture over microwave-only cooking.

Cons

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Higher Cost

Speed ovens are typically more expensive than microwaves, both in purchase price and potential maintenance.

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Smaller Capacity

Usually smaller than a standard oven, which may limit batch cooking or large meals.

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Learning Curve

May require time to get used to settings and functions for optimal performance.

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Limited Models

Not as widely available as microwaves, with fewer design and price options on the market.

Whether you're looking for a Monogram speed oven or something from Miele, it's important to compare features, size, and design to see if it aligns with your cooking needs.

Speed Oven Shopping Tips

When choosing a speed oven, start by evaluating capacity. Larger models can cook multiple dishes at once, while compact units save space but limit output. Stainless steel finishes improve durability and ease of cleaning. Key features to compare include convection cooking, steam options, and self-cleaning functions.

Front view of a small modern kitchen with stainless steel Thermador appliances including a refrigerator, speed oven, and range

Additionally, look at the different types of installations such as drawer microwave oven models that blend in with your cabinetry for a cohesive look in your kitchen. Built-in models are also popular because they don't protrude out.

You should also ask yourself what is a speed oven appliance's price. Prices vary, so assess value through included accessories, warranties, and tech features like WiFi or app control. Investing in high-quality models like a Bosch speed oven or a Monogram unit can enhance efficiency and reduce long-term operating costs.

5 Best Speed Ovens

Not sure what brands to look for when it comes to speed ovens? We've got you covered. Below are five of the best speed ovens on the market. Compare each one by its features so you know which one will be perfect for your cooking tasks.

Bosch® 800 Series 30" Stainless Steel Electric Speed Oven

Front view of the Bosch® 800 Series 30" Stainless Steel Electric Speed Oven

Shop this Bosch® Speed Oven

For anyone who wants a versatile cooking solution that combines speed and performance, this electric speed oven from Bosch delivers both with ease. The 30" model has a dual microwave and convection oven, that provides quick and even cooking for a variety of dishes. Its innovative SpeedChef cycles drastically reduce cooking time, so it's perfect for busy kitchens. The stainless steel finish complements any modern kitchen, and its flush installation design allows for seamless integration with Bosch’s other built-in appliances.

Café™ 30" Matte White Electric Speed Oven

Front view of the Café™ 30" Matte White Electric Speed Oven

Shop this Café™ Speed Oven

This Café speed oven brings a unique combination of microwave, convection, toaster, warming, and precision cooking, all in one compact space. Thanks to Advantium technology, it cooks food two to four times faster than conventional ovens, to eliminate the need for preheating. It also makes mealtime quicker and more convenient. The in-oven camera lets you monitor cooking progress from your smartphone for more control and precision. With a stunning matte white finish and customizable hardware options, this oven easily complements various kitchen styles

GE Profile™ 30" Stainless Steel Electric Speed Oven

Front view of the GE Profile™ 30" Stainless Steel Electric Speed Oven

Shop this GE Profile™ Speed Oven

If you want the value of both convenience and innovation, this appliance has an outstanding solution. The GE speed oven integrates over 175 preprogrammed menu selections, which makes it easy to prepare a variety of meals with just a touch of a button. With its built-in WiFi and SmartHQ app, you can control and monitor your oven from anywhere, so that your meal is cooked to perfection even when you're not in the kitchen. The in-oven camera lets you check on your food without opening the door, to give you a seamless cooking experience.  Plus, its 7" touchscreen display is bright, and interactive and includes fun features like custom backgrounds and food facts.

Thermador® Masterpiece 30" Stainless Steel Electric Speed Oven

Front view of the Thermador® Masterpiece 30" Stainless Steel Electric Speed Oven

Shop this Thermador® Speed Oven

If you’re wondering,what is a speed oven with more features that won't break the bank,” well, Thermador's 30 inch Masterpiece model provides 36 Cook Smart automatic cooking programs, that allow you to cook meals more quickly without sacrificing quality. Its sleek stainless steel design, paired with specially crafted gray glass, enhances the kitchen’s aesthetics, while the 10 levels of microwaveable power ensure versatility for various cooking needs. With convection cooking capabilities, you get even heat distribution which helps in achieving perfect results every time. Love this Thermador speed oven? Check out this video from Thermador which details even more!

Wolf® E Series 24" Stainless Steel Transitional Electric Speed Oven

Front view of the Wolf® E Series 24" Stainless Steel Transitional Electric Speed Oven

Shop this Wolf® Speed Oven

With the ability to combine microwave, convection, and broil modes, this Wolf speed oven has impressive cooking flexibility, so you can prepare a variety of dishes in less time. The 10 microwave power levels, along with quick-start controls for functions like defrosting and reheating, make everyday cooking easy and efficient. For those seeking gourmet results, the built-in Gourmet guide has helpful instructions for a perfect finish to your meals. Additionally, Wolf stands behind the durability of this model and gives you an industry-leading two-year warranty. One of the benefits is that this speed oven costs less than a full Wolf range so it's ideal if you're on a budget.

Speed Oven FAQ

A speed oven can cook meals up to two to four times faster than a conventional oven, thanks to the combination of microwave and convection technology. This is important for cooks who need to save time without compromising on quality, such as in busy households or professional kitchens. However, the exact speed can vary depending on the brand and model.

It can be used for baking, roasting, broiling, and even defrosting. Some models have specialized modes for cooking specific dishes like pizza or popcorn. These features make speed ovens ideal for cooks who want convenience, fast results, and more cooking options in one appliance.

While a speed oven gives you faster cooking times, it can't fully replace a regular oven. Regular ovens are better suited for large, slow-cooked meals and have more even heat distribution, which is essential for certain baking tasks like bread or large roasts. Double wall ovens are greater for large families. While speed ovens excel in quick meals and versatility, they lack the capacity and consistency needed for some cooking techniques.

Speed ovens are an excellent choice for small spaces like apartments because of their compact size and multifunctionality. You can purchase a speed oven from Orville's Home Appliances, where you'll find a variety of options from top brands. Each brand has unique features for different cooking needs, so be sure to visit us to find the perfect speed oven for your space and culinary requirements.

Why Trust Orville’s?

For nearly 60 years, Orville's has been synonymous with excellence in the home appliance industry. With eight appliance showrooms and a 110,000-square-foot warehouse stocked with 25,000+ major home appliances, we offer the largest selection of kitchen, laundry, and outdoor appliances in Western New York.

Every Orville’s location showcases over a 1,000 different appliance models, with products from today’s best appliance brands. From outlet deals to scratch and dent, we always ensure our customers receive the best value with a Low Price Guarantee. A continuously refreshed catalog of in-stock appliances awaits, ready and available for the region’s fastest delivery and installation service. Experience the Orville's difference today. Visit one of our local appliance stores and discover why we're your trusted source for home appliances in Western New York.

Shop Speed Ovens at Orville’s Home Appliances

As a family-owned and operated business since 1965, Orville's is deeply rooted in the WNY, Genessee Valley, and Finger Lakes community. We're proud to have been serving the appliance needs of Rochester, Buffalo, and beyond for over five decades, and we remain committed to providing exceptional service and support to our loyal customers. Our appliance specialists are always happy to answer any questions about discount appliances.

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