At a Glance:
Speed Oven vs Other Oven Types
Sometimes you don't have a lot of time to cook your dinner. But what happens when your family is hungry and your kids need quick meals that don't take forever to cook? What you may need is a speed oven.
A speed oven is all about faster cooking. Combining the functions of a microwave and a convection oven is helpful for anyone who loves cooking but doesn't have hours to spend in the kitchen. Learn more about the speed oven and how to have a more efficient cooking experience as we dive into answering "How much faster is a speed oven, really?"
Explore Speed Ovens at Arnold's Appliance
Looking for a speed oven? Discover options from top brands like Bosch, Monogram, Wolf, and more at Arnold's Appliance, today.
Shop All Speed OvensWhat is a Speed Oven?
Speed ovens are ovens that allow you to cook food quickly and evenly. A dish that typically takes an hour in a traditional oven can be cooked in a fraction of the time. It combines the functions of two other familiar tools: the microwave and the convection.
The microwave gives you rapid heating, while the convection ensures the food is cooked thoroughly until it has a golden brown, crispy finish. But it wouldn't be right to call a speed oven "microwave" because it carries far more advanced features. A speed oven can bake, roast, broil, and grill various dishes. Busy households can take maximum advantage of this oven due to its versatility.
Most speed ovens have a sleek, modern aesthetic. But installing either a built in speed oven or a countertop speed oven will often require the involvement of a trusted electrician. Built-in ones may need further work as they require the correct dimensions to match your cabinetry.
How Much Faster is a Speed Oven?
A speed oven is significantly faster than a conventional oven, typically cooking food in a fraction of the time. While cooking times can vary depending on the specific model and cooking method, speed ovens utilize a combination of microwave, convection, and radiant heating technologies to accelerate the cooking process.
In comparison to traditional ovens, which rely solely on convection or radiant heat, speed ovens can cook food up to 50% faster. This increased speed allows for quicker meal preparation, making speed ovens ideal for busy households or those who frequently entertain guests. Additionally, the rapid cooking time helps to preserve the natural flavors and nutrients of the food, resulting in delicious and evenly cooked dishes. Whether you're reheating leftovers, baking a batch of cookies, or roasting a chicken, a speed oven offers convenience and efficiency without compromising on quality.
Here is a list of common foods and the time it needs to cook in a high speed oven.
- Bread, Sandwiches, and Toast: Less than 30 seconds
- Cookies: Around 1 minute and 35 seconds
- French Fries: Around 2 minutes and 30 seconds
- Pizza: Around 3 minutes and 30 seconds
- Vegetables: Around 4-5 minutes
- Roasted Chicken Breast: 6 minutes and 30 seconds
Comparing Speed Ovens vs. Other Oven Types
When determining if a speed oven is right for you, it's important to compare the oven to other types. Here are some of their main similarities and differences.
Speed Oven vs Conventional Oven
A speed oven cooks or bakes food faster than a conventional oven. For families relying on speed and efficiency on weekdays, for example, a speed oven will suffice for reheating or defrosting frozen foods. It's also more functional because it can be used for different tasks; the microwave function will give you certain benefits that a standard oven does not.
However, conventional ovens, whether a range or wall oven, are still preferable for traditional cooks and bakers who want more control over their dishes. A conventional oven may also hold larger dishes than a speed oven, whose interior is more compact. A traditional oven works best for those with a lot of time on their hands and who are more of a cooking expert in the kitchen, whereas a speed oven might be better for apartment cooking or those on-the-go.
Speed Oven vs Microwave
Although microwave technology is used in speed ovens, these two appliances differ. Microwaves are used for reheating leftovers and cooking simple, often pre-made dishes. Meanwhile, speed ovens can cook more complex meals. Microwaves are also limited to heating and boiling water, but speed ovens can roast, bake, and broil food.
A speed oven's features are often more advanced than a microwave's. A speed oven's preset cooking program, temperature probe, and various cooking modes allow for more precise cooking and results. If you don't already have a microwave, consider getting a speed oven instead. After all, it still works as a microwave and then some.
Speed Oven vs Steam Oven
Speed ovens cook foods much faster than steam ovens. With the microwave function, speed ovens cook food in around 5 minutes. With the convection speed option, speed ovens can cook in around 15 minutes.
However, the steam oven takes much longer than either of those times; it can take around 15 minutes for a steam oven to reach the ideal temperature. The food will then take around 20 more minutes to cook.
Since steam ovens cannot be interchanged with microwaves, their functionality is less than that of a speed oven. However, many experts say cooking with steam can be much healthier and more nutritious than the alternatives. If you are health-conscious, this may be the appliance for you.
Pros and Cons of Speed Ovens
Throughout this article, you may have noticed the benefits of a speed oven. But this list will clarify the pros once again:
✅ Time-Saving: The biggest advantage of a speed oven is undoubtedly its swiftness, which will save you a lot of time in the kitchen.
✅ Versatility: This appliance's other advantage is its multiple cooking functions, such as convection, microwave, and boil. This all-in-one feature will be helpful for those looking for cooking efficiency.
✅ Energy Efficiency: Speed ovens use less energy than traditional ovens because of the reduced cooking time, thus lowering your energy bills. They also produce less heat, making them more comfortable cooking in summer.
Unfortunately, there are drawbacks to speed ovens. Although they are few, they still require careful deliberation.
❌ Limited Capacity: Due to the smaller size of speed ovens compared to traditional ones, it can be a problem when you're trying to cook for a large group of people or want to prepare multiple dishes at once
❌ Higher Cost: Speed ovens tend to be more expensive than traditional ovens, which can be a hindrance for some people. But the initial investment may be made up later in time and energy-saving
How to Choose a Speed Oven
Before you buy a speed oven, here are some aspects you may need to consider:
- Oven Size and Installation Type: Figure out how much space you have in your kitchen and whether a built-in or freestanding oven is more likely to fit in it.
- Power Consumption: Consider all the power requirements of a speed oven and ensure your house's electrical system can handle it. Some speed ovens may even require a dedicated circuit.
- Cooking Habits and Needs: Your cooking style also influences what speed oven you ultimately choose based on the available features
- Oven features: Matching your cooking needs to the oven's features is also essential. The cooking modes and present programs help you cook faster, but if you don't find any of these functions in a particular speed oven, that one is not for you.
- Oven Interface: Choose the oven with the friendliest interface to you. Touch controls are more convenient, but perhaps you prefer actual knobs. You can decide based on personal preference.
- Price Range: Speed ovens often cost more than a conventional oven, so commit to a budget. It's highly recommended that you invest in a quality oven that will endure for years than a cheaper one that needs replacing within a year or two.
5 Featured Speed Ovens
Now, let’s take a look at some of the top featured speed ovens available at Arnold’s.
Bosch® 800 Series 30" Stainless Steel Electric Speed Oven
This Bosch speed oven cooks faster than traditional ovens. The SpeedChef™ offers several cooking cycles and ensures your dishes are ready in minutes. It also has dual microwave and convection oven functions for many cooking options. Plus, you can install it flush with your cabinets and match it with your other Bosch products. The 30-inch width can even be installed in either a horizontal or vertical configuration.
➤ Model #: HMC80152UC
Monogram Minimalist 30" Stainless Steel Electric Speed Oven
This Monogram speed oven, a part of its Minimalist Collection, is streamlined to create a contemporary aesthetic. Its functionality is exceptionally high as a convection oven, toaster, microwave, warming oven, and precision cook oven. It's also speedy: it cooks up to four times faster than a regular oven! What's more impressive is its spacious interior with a 1.7 cubic feet oven space featuring a 16-inch fully rotating turntable. You will love its pre-programmed recipes of 175 preset food selections!
➤ Model #: ZSB9231NSS
Thermador® Masterpiece 30" Stainless Steel Electric Speed Oven
Shop this Thermador® Speed Oven
A special sensor mode equips this Thermador speed oven, making it easier to adjust your cooking level and time. It also allows you to control humidity so your food doesn't get too dry or too moist. The automated programming will help you cook even faster—36 auto programs from the CookSmart® feature, ten microwave programs, and three combination modes. And don't worry about running out of space; the 1.6 cubic feet interior can give your food of choice plenty of room.
➤ Model #: MC30WS
Fulgor Milano 700 Series 24" Stainless Steel Electric Speed Oven
Shop this Fulgor Milano Speed Oven
This Italian speed oven holds up its own among the competitors. It has all the best features of a 3-in-1 oven capable of microwaving, convection cooking, and combination methods. You can experiment with different pre-selected or customized recipes based on weight, temperature, and cooking time. And with ten combined functions, you can be as versatile in the kitchen as you wish. Look out for its quick-access menu on an easy-to-use single keyboard.
➤ Model #: F7DSPD24S1
Wolf® M Series 30" Stainless Steel Professional Electric Speed Oven
This Wolf speed oven offers microwave power with convection and broil capabilities in a single appliance. And it's quick—accessing the ten microwave power levels and controls for popular operations takes no time. The control panel also directs you to cook some foods requiring more supervision for doneness. You can cook gourmet quality dishes automatically! You can trust this brand with its warranty and testing to guarantee the product's durability.
➤ Model #: SPO30PM/S/PH
FAQ
What is a speed oven?
A speed oven is an appliance that combines the functions of a microwave and convection cooking. It reduces cooking time and prepares meals at a faster speed than usual.
Are speed ovens worth it?
Speed ovens can be worth the investment if your household is busy and cannot waste time on meal preparations. But if you already have a microwave that still functions well, reconsider the options.
How does a speed oven work?
A speed oven uses convection power (around 90%) and microwave power (10%) to heat the elements in a food item. The convection fan moves heat evenly over the elements, shortening the cooking time. The result is usually a crispy, brown exterior on your dishes with a still juicy interior.
Where can I buy a speed oven near me?
You can search for a "speed oven near me" online. Or, if you already have a trusted store, such as Arnold's Appliance, pop in to see the available models.
→ Learn more: Kitchen Hacks: Oven Not Heating Up?
Why Trust Arnold’s Appliance?
Arnold's Appliance started in the summer of 1956 when it opened its doors as Lakeshore Appliance in Redmond, Washington. John Arnold and his family have since grown the store from just a few brands to the large appliance store it is today and moved to Bellevue in 1999 in search of a larger building. Arnold’s Appliance now offers high-end innovative products from over 45 manufacturers.
In addition to extensive product knowledge, Arnold’s has been providing fine appliances to Northwest builders, remodelers, designers, architects, and developers for over 47 years. Arnold's supplies products and installation to many of the finest custom and spec home builders in the Pacific Northwest. Along with single-family housing, Arnold's has also supplied products for some of the largest multi-unit projects in the area. Arnold’s, now the third generation of the Arnold Family, is dedicated to bringing the best quality products, delivery services, and installation to customers for years to come.
Shop Speed Ovens at Arnold’s Appliance
Stop by Arnold’s Appliance Bellevue, WA location to see what a difference buying locally with an experienced staff can make. Or shop speed ovens online! Our friendly experts are always happy to help you choose a speed oven, today — whether you call us at 425-454-7929, use our online chat feature, or visit us in person.
→ Learn more: How Convection Ovens Help You Cook for Crowds