In today’s fast-paced kitchens, multifunctional countertop ovens have become indispensable. Two standout models are the Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 and the Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1. While both offer impressive versatility, their strengths and ideal use cases differ significantly. Below, we dive deep into their features, performance, and which one may suit you best.
Main Difference: Breville Combi Wave vs Panasonic HomeChef
The **main difference** between the Breville Combi Wave and the Panasonic HomeChef lies in their power design philosophy and cooking algorithm: Breville emphasizes combining high-powered convection, grill, and microwave in rapid “Fast Combi” cycles and uses inverter-based power smoothing for even heating, while Panasonic leans into precise, app-linked multi-stage cooking with its inverter microwave plus gentler convection and broiler functions, facilitated by its Kitchen+ app.
1. Key Specifications & Power
Let’s begin by comparing the core specs of both units:
| Specification | Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 | Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 |
|---|---|---|
| Model / Capacity | BMO870BST, 32 L (1.1 cu ft) | NN-CD87KS / NN-CV87QS, 1.2 cu ft (≈ 34 L) |
| Microwave Power | 1,100 W output on 1,200 W input | 1,000 W (inverter) |
| Convection / Grill Power | 1,400 W convection, grill 1,100 W | Up to ~1,300–1,350 W heater for convection / broiler (based on similar models) |
| Functions / Modes | Microwave, Convection, Grill, Fast Combi, From Frozen, Air Fry | Microwave, Convection Bake (up to 425°F), FlashXpress Broiler, Air Fry; 3-stage cooking + app control |
| Control & Presets | Knobs + buttons; 19 Smart presets; “A Bit More” button; Soft-close door | Buttons + dial, ~20 presets, app-linked recipes via Panasonic Kitchen+ app |
| Dimensions & Weight | 519 × 513 × 316 mm, approx 11.6 kg | Approx. 22″ W × 13.5″ H × 17.7″ D, 39 lb (~17.7 kg) |
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2. Cooking Performance & Versatility
Breville Combi Wave:
– The Combi Wave’s **Fast Combi** mode is one of its most compelling features: it can combine microwave, convection, and grilling elements sequentially or in overlap to cook dishes significantly faster than a traditional oven.
– Thanks to its **Element IQ** system, power is routed intelligently to where it’s most needed. This means crispy results in convection or grill mode, but smooth, even heating in microwave mode.
– The **Power Smoothing Inverter** avoids the typical on/off cycling of many microwaves; instead, it modulates power more consistently, which prevents overheating edges or undercooked centers.
– With 19 in-built “smart” presets (Smart Cook, Smart Reheat, Smart Defrost), users can cook a wide variety of foods with minimal adjustments.
– The **soft-close door** and quieter operation add to a premium feel in the kitchen.
– It also comes with a **Combi Crisp pan** and a trivet, enabling better airflow and crisping when air frying.
Panasonic HomeChef:
– The HomeChef is designed as a true **multi-oven**: it serves as a countertop microwave, but also as an **air fryer**, a **convection bake oven**, and a **FlashXpress broiler**—all in one.
– Its **inverter microwave technology** ensures more consistent heating, avoiding cold spots, which is especially useful during defrosting or delicate reheating.
– Convection bake mode can reach up to **425°F (≈ 218°C)**, letting you roast or bake as you would in a conventional oven.
– **App integration via Panasonic Kitchen+**: You can browse recipes in the app, then send them to your HomeChef, which will automatically configure cooking steps.
– **Accessories included**: wire rack, enamel tray, air fry basket — enabling more flexibility for different cooking styles.
– Despite its power, it’s relatively compact and can be used as built-in with optional trim-kit (if space or design is a factor).
3. Efficiency and Speed
– **Breville Combi Wave** is likely to offer faster cook times when using its “Fast Combi” mode because it simultaneously or sequentially leverages different heating sources (microwave + convection + grill).
– On the other hand, **Panasonic HomeChef**, with its app-driven sequences, may trade off speed for precision. Its inverter microwave and staged cooking ensure good results but might not be as aggressive in raw speed as Breville’s combi cycles.
– In defrosting and reheating, Panasonic’s inverter design may give smoother, more even results.
4. User Experience & Controls
– Breville uses a **knob + button interface**, which many users find intuitive and tactile. The “A Bit More” button lets you quickly extend cooking time, and the “Turntable Off” option is useful for large or irregularly shaped dishes.
– Panasonic offers traditional button/dial controls but pairs it with smart functionality via its app (Kitchen+), making it very useful for those who like guided cooking or recipe assistance.
– With the app integration, Panasonic makes it easier to try new recipes, store favorites, and let the machine take care of power/time settings.
5. Build, Design & Size
– The Breville is built with **brushed stainless steel** and has a relatively large cavity (32 L) for a countertop model.
– Its soft-close door adds a premium feel, and it is fairly heavy (≈ 11.6 kg) so you’ll need a stable countertop.
– Panasonic’s HomeChef also sports a stainless finish, but its design is slightly more compact footprint-wise, though its weight (≈ 17.7 kg) suggests it’s solidly built.
– Depending on your kitchen layout, Panasonic’s optional trim kit allows it to be more versatile in how it’s installed.
6. Cooking Capacity & Types of Food You Can Make
– With the Combi Wave, the large cavity and strong convection/grill power allow for tasks such as crisping, roasting, and even air frying snacks. The included crisp pan enhances browning.
– The HomeChef is better suited for meals that benefit from step-by-step cooking sequences: e.g., roast a chicken, then crisp skin with broiling, or sequentially cook with microwave then convection for layered dishes.
7. Reliability & Lifespan Considerations
– Some users have raised concerns about reliability for Breville’s Combi Wave, particularly around its inverter or soft-close mechanism over time (based on user reviews).
– As for Panasonic, while many praise its multi-functionality, some users note that understanding the app interface or the presets can take time; but inverter microwave parts are generally mature and reliable.
– Maintenance: Breville’s crisp pan needs care; Panasonic’s basket and tray must be handled properly to avoid damage.
8. Energy Consumption & Efficiency
– Because Breville uses a high-powered convection + grill + microwave in combi mode, it may draw a substantial amount of power during those cycles.
– Panasonic’s inverter microwave moderates power draw more smoothly, which could lead to slightly more efficient energy usage during microwave-only tasks.
– The staging of operations (microwave → convection → broil) in HomeChef may also optimize energy by not powering all elements simultaneously.
9. Safety Features
– Breville includes a **child lock**, which is essential for households with kids.
– The soft-close door reduces the risk of slamming, which helps preserve hinge integrity and minimize accidents. :contentReference[oaicite:32]{index=32}
– Panasonic’s HomeChef also has child safety lock, plus its app can help monitor cooking without needing repeated physical interaction.
10. Price & Value for Money
– Breville’s Combi Wave tends to be priced at a premium because of its higher wattage, multifunction capabilities, and premium build.
– Panasonic HomeChef, while also not cheap, provides a strong value proposition by combining four major cooking modes (microwave, convection, air fry, broiler) in one unit, especially with its app integration.
– If you frequently use multiple cooking styles but don’t want separate devices, HomeChef may offer better long-term value. If speed and power matter more, Combi Wave may justify its cost.
11. Which One Should You Choose?
Here are some **recommendations** based on different user profiles:
– **Go for the Breville Combi Wave** if:
– You want **fast cooking** and don’t mind higher energy draw.
– You’re ambitious and plan to leverage its **Fast Combi mode** for quick roasting, crisping, or baking.
– You like **manual control** (knobs, presets) rather than app-based guidance.
– You frequently use convection and grill in addition to microwave, and want a true all-rounder.
– **Pick the Panasonic HomeChef** if:
– You prefer **guided cooking** via recipes and app control.
– Your kitchen space is limited, but you still want multiple cooking modes.
– You value **even low-power reheating and defrosting** (thanks to inverter tech).
– You are interested in **multi-stage cooking**, like starting with microwave, then baking, then crisping.
12. Pros & Cons Summary
- Breville Combi Wave – Pros: High wattage, fast combi cycles, versatile for serious cooking, strong crisping.
- Breville Combi Wave – Cons: Bulky, potentially higher energy use, steeper learning curve for combi cooking.
- Panasonic HomeChef – Pros: 4-in-1 functionality, app-driven recipes, inverter ensures gentle microwave heating, compact footprint.
- Panasonic HomeChef – Cons: Slower for power-hungry combi tasks, app reliance, broiler power less intense than dedicated ovens.
13. Final Verdict
If you’re aiming for **maximum power and speed**, especially when juggling grilling, convection baking, and microwaving in quick succession, the **Breville Combi Wave** stands out. However, if your priority is **smart, app-controlled versatility**, energy-efficient reheating, and a device that truly replaces multiple countertop appliances, the **Panasonic HomeChef** offers a compelling, all-in-one solution.
Ultimately, your choice should hinge on your cooking style, kitchen space, and whether you favor raw power or guided multitasking. Both are excellent appliances — but for different kinds of cooks.
