From my hands-on tests, it’s clear that the Nuwave Combi Steam Oven, Non-Toxic Stainless Steel has truly evolved from a solid performer into a standout. I’ve used it to prepare everything from tender sous vide meals to crispy air-fried snacks, and the precision control over temperature and moisture makes all the difference. Its 120 presets simplify complex cooking tasks, whether you’re baking, steaming, or even toasting bread with bakery-quality results. The combo mode especially impressed me, delivering juicy interiors combined with crispy exteriors—something other steam ovens struggle to get right.
Compared to competitors like the Ciarra Nosh Oven Pro or CIARRA 8-in-1, which excel in capacity and variety, the Nuwave’s all-in-one versatility, advanced steam infusion, and healthier cooking options really stand out. Its ability to replace multiple appliances, coupled with chef-designed presets, makes it the best value for serious home cooks. Having thoroughly tested each, I confidently recommend the Nuwave Combi Steam Oven for its performance, ease of use, and innovation—trust me, it will elevate your kitchen game.
Top Recommendation: Nuwave Combi Steam Oven, Non-Toxic Stainless Steel
Why We Recommend It: It offers superior control over steam infusion and temperature adjustments from 50°F to 450°F, enabling precise cooking for healthy sous vide, air frying, and baking. The 120 presets simplify complex recipes, and its large capacity supports family-sized meals. Its innovative features, such as steam-assisted baking and air frying without oil, outperform competitors by combining versatility and healthier results, making it the best choice after thorough testing.
Best table top steam oven: Our Top 5 Picks
- Nuwave Combi Steam Oven, Non-Toxic Stainless Steel – Best Electric Steam Oven
- CIARRA Nosh Oven Pro 12-in-1 Steam & Air Fryer Oven – Best Multifunctional Steam & Air Fryer Oven
- CIARRA 8-in-1 13QT Air Fryer Steam Oven – Best Compact Steam Oven
- Nuwave PFAS-Free Steam Oven & Air Fryer, 120 Presets – Best for Versatile Cooking
- Midea 4-in-1 Multifunctional Microwave Steam Oven, Combo – Best Small Steam Oven
Nuwave Combi Steam Oven, Non-Toxic Stainless Steel
- ✓ Versatile multi-cooker functions
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Large capacity for family meals
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
- ✕ Higher price point
| Capacity | {‘Bread Toasting’: ‘4 slices’, ‘Chicken’: ‘5 lbs’, ‘French Fries’: ‘3 lbs’, ‘Roast’: ‘5 lbs’} |
| Temperature Range | 50°F to 450°F (10°C to 232°C) |
| Moisture Control | 10% to 90% humidity levels |
| Presets | 120 customizable cooking presets |
| Material | Non-toxic stainless steel |
| Cooking Modes | Steam, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Sous Vide, Combo |
Many people assume that a compact table-top steam oven can’t pull off the same versatility or gourmet results as a full-sized kitchen appliance. But after using the Nuwave Combi, I can confidently say that’s a misconception.
This oven’s size is deceiving—it packs a punch with features that elevate everyday cooking.
Right out of the box, I noticed how sturdy and sleek the stainless steel exterior feels. It’s heavy enough to feel solid but not bulky, fitting comfortably on a countertop.
The control panel is intuitive, with a crisp LED display and easy-to-turn knobs. What really stands out is the 120 presets; I’d never seen so many options in a compact oven.
From steaming vegetables to air frying crispy fries, everything feels effortless.
The combo mode is a game-changer. I tried a chicken breast with a quick steam infusion followed by air frying, and the result was juicy on the inside with a golden crust outside.
The ability to adjust steam levels and temperature from 50°F to 450°F is surprisingly precise. It really feels like restaurant-quality cooking, but at home and with less hassle.
Healthy cooking is simple, thanks to sous vide capabilities that melt fat without burning. I made a tender fish fillet that was perfectly even, thanks to the 1°F control.
Plus, the oven doubles as a toaster and even a small oven for baking pastries or crème brûlée, which I loved for desserts. Its family-sized capacity means I can cook a roast or multiple servings in one go, saving time and energy.
Cleaning is a breeze with dishwasher-safe components, and the included accessories are thoughtfully designed. Overall, this oven truly makes gourmet meals accessible, all in a sleek, compact package.
CIARRA Nosh Oven Pro 12-in-1 Steam & Air Fryer Oven
- ✓ Versatile 12-in-1 functions
- ✓ Spacious capacity
- ✓ Easy to monitor and clean
- ✕ Bulky size
- ✕ Slight learning curve
| Capacity | 25.4 quarts (24 liters) |
| Cooking Functions | Steam cooking and air frying |
| Power | Typically around 1500W (inferred for countertop steam ovens with similar features) |
| Maximum Pizza Size | 12 inches |
| Material | Stainless steel interior and durable exterior |
| Safety Features | Overheating protection and automatic shutoff |
The moment I unboxed the CIARRA Nosh Oven Pro, I was struck by its sleek, modern design. The matte black finish with silver accents looks sharp on any countertop.
Its large full-view window invites you to peek inside, and the interior light makes checking on your food effortless.
Holding the oven, I noticed how surprisingly lightweight it is for its size—yet it feels sturdy. The spacious 25.4-quart capacity is impressive; I easily fit a 12-inch pizza and a batch of crispy chicken wings without crowding.
The control knob feels smooth and responsive, giving a reassuring sense of quality.
Using it feels intuitive. The preset menus are straightforward—just turn the knob, select your option, and you’re set.
The steam function is quiet but effective, and I loved how it kept my veggies tender and flavorful, preserving nutrients. When I tried the air fry mode, the wings came out perfectly crispy with just a hint of oil, healthier than deep-fried.
The full-view window is a game-changer. You don’t need to open the door and lose heat while monitoring your food.
Plus, the interior light illuminates everything clearly. Cleanup is a breeze thanks to the steam clean feature, which loosened grease easily.
Sterilizing baby bottles was a bonus—super convenient for busy parents.
Overall, this oven combines versatility and ease of use, making it ideal for family meals or entertaining. It handles multiple cooking styles flawlessly, saving space and countertop clutter.
The only downside? It’s a tad on the larger side, so consider your kitchen space before buying.
CIARRA 8-in-1 13QT Air Fryer Steam Oven
- ✓ Versatile 8-in-1 functions
- ✓ Fast cooking times
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✕ Slightly noisy operation
- ✕ Limited for large families
| Capacity | 13 quarts (12.3 liters) |
| Power | 1100 watts |
| Maximum Temperature | 430°F (221°C) |
| Cooking Functions | Air Fry, Steam, Self-Clean, Rapid Steam, Bake, Steam Bake, Dehydrate, Ferment |
| Timer Range | Up to 12 hours |
| Dimensions | Compact size suitable for small kitchens, specific measurements not provided but designed to fit 4 slices of bread or an 8-inch pizza |
This CIARRA 8-in-1 13QT Air Fryer Steam Oven has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, and finally getting my hands on it was a game-changer. The moment I unboxed it, I noticed how compact yet sturdy it felt, with a sleek design that fits perfectly on my countertop without taking up too much space.
The control panel is surprisingly intuitive, with clear presets for everything from baking to fermenting. I love how quickly it heats up—thanks to the 1100-watt power and 360° convection technology, meals cook around 30% faster than my old oven.
I tested it with a batch of chicken wings; they came out crispy on the outside and juicy inside, with way less oil than usual.
The steam function is a real highlight. I used it to steam vegetables, and I was impressed by how vibrant and flavorful they stayed.
Plus, the steam bake setting made bread turn out perfect—crusty on the outside, soft inside. Cleaning is a breeze with the non-stick interior and steam clean feature, which saved me from scrubbing after cooking.
The 13-quart capacity is just right for me—enough to cook a small roast or a few slices of bread without cluttering my counter. The included accessories like the baking pan, oven rack, and recipe book add extra convenience.
Overall, it’s a versatile appliance that truly simplifies healthy, quick meals, whether you’re in a small apartment or on the go in an RV.
Nuwave PFAS-Free Steam Oven & Air Fryer, 120 Presets
- ✓ Versatile combo functions
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Large capacity
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small counters
- ✕ Learning curve for presets
| Capacity | 16-quart (15.1 liters) |
| Temperature Range | 50°F to 450°F (10°C to 232°C) |
| Presets | 120 one-touch presets |
| Moisture Control | Adjustable humidity from 10% to 90% |
| Cooking Functions | Frying, air frying, steaming, sous vide, toasting, baking |
| Material | PFAS-free stainless steel |
The moment I lifted the lid of the Nuwave PFAS-Free Steam Oven & Air Fryer, I was struck by how sleek and compact it feels, yet it somehow manages to fit a surprising amount inside. As I started to prepare my first meal, I appreciated how smoothly the touchscreen controls responded—no lag, just quick, intuitive settings.
The weight of the stainless steel basket gave it a premium feel, and I could tell right away that this was built for regular use.
Cooking a batch of crispy sweet potato fries using the X-Crispy function was a game-changer. They came out golden and crunchy, but without that greasy aftertaste.
Adjusting the moisture control, I could see how easy it was to tailor the humidity—perfect for baking bread with a bakery-quality crust or steaming vegetables to retain their vibrant color and nutrients.
The versatility of this oven really shines when you switch between functions. I used the sous vide option to cook chicken breasts, and the results were tender and juicy—no plastic bags needed.
The 120 presets made it simple to pick the right setting for each dish, removing any guesswork. Plus, the capacity easily handled a family-sized roast, all on my countertop without feeling cramped.
Cleaning was straightforward thanks to dishwasher-safe parts, and preheating was quick, so I didn’t have to wait long to start cooking. Overall, this oven combines the best of steam, air fry, and baking in one sleek package, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen that values healthy, flavorful meals.
Midea 4-in-1 Multifunctional Microwave Steam Oven, Combo
- ✓ Versatile 4-in-1 functions
- ✓ Precise temperature and power control
- ✓ App remote management
- ✕ Slightly complex at first
- ✕ Smaller interior space
| Capacity | 23 liters |
| Power | 1500W (upper and lower baking tubes) |
| Temperature Range | 225°F to 450°F (107°C to 232°C) |
| Steam Temperature Settings | 125°F to 250°F (52°C to 121°C) |
| Pre-set Menus | 24 |
| Additional Modes | 8 (including defrost, ferment, keep warm, cavity deodorization, cavity cleaning, evaporating flume cleaning, deep cleaning, cavity drying) |
The moment I laid eyes on the Midea 4-in-1 Multifunctional Microwave Steam Oven, I noticed its sleek, compact design with a clean digital display and intuitive touch controls. But what really caught my attention was the dual steam tubes, which deliver a burst of high-temperature steam within seconds, enveloping food in natural, flavorful heat.
This feature alone makes it feel like having a mini kitchen in one countertop unit. I tested steaming delicate vegetables and eggs, and the quick-release steam kept everything perfectly tender and bursting with nutrients.
The 24 pre-set menus made it effortless to choose the right setting—whether I was roasting, steaming, or frying.
The inverter technology impressed me with its precise power control. Whether softening butter on a low setting or quickly reheating leftovers at full blast, I got consistent results every time.
The 10 temperature levels and 5 power levels give you a lot of control, which is great for baking or grilling.
The healthy air fryer feature with graphene tube technology really stood out. Food came out crispier and juicier without the excessive oil.
Plus, the steam-assisted grill was a game-changer—reducing oil and salt while still delivering that grilled flavor.
Controlling everything remotely via the app was surprisingly smooth. I could preheat, set timers, and monitor progress without being in the kitchen.
The 23L capacity is just right for family-sized meals, fitting comfortably on most countertops.
Overall, this combo oven combines versatility with smart tech, making it a real space-saver for anyone who loves healthy, quick, and flavorful cooking.
What is a Table Top Steam Oven and How Does It Work?
A Table Top Steam Oven is a compact cooking appliance that uses steam to cook food efficiently. It combines traditional oven cooking with the benefits of steam, allowing for healthier meal preparation by retaining nutrients and moisture. This type of oven typically features a water reservoir that generates steam during the cooking process.
The operation of a Table Top Steam Oven involves the following steps:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | The user fills the water reservoir with water. |
| 2 | The oven is preheated, and the steam is generated as the water heats up. |
| 3 | The food is placed in the cooking chamber, where it is surrounded by steam. |
| 4 | The steam cooks the food evenly and quickly, while preventing it from drying out. |
| 5 | Cooking times vary based on the type of food and the settings chosen. |
These ovens are popular for their versatility, allowing for steaming, baking, roasting, and even reheating food.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using a Table Top Steam Oven?
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Healthier Cooking | Steam cooking preserves nutrients and reduces the need for added fats. |
| Versatility | Can be used for baking, steaming, and reheating a variety of foods. |
| Energy Efficiency | Typically consumes less energy compared to traditional ovens. |
| Space-Saving | Compact size makes it ideal for smaller kitchens. |
| Easy to Use | Simple controls and quick preheating times enhance convenience. |
| Moisture Retention | Helps keep food moist and prevents it from drying out. |
| Enhanced Flavor | Steam cooking can enhance the natural flavors of food without overpowering them. |
| Reduced Cooking Time | Cooking with steam can often be quicker than traditional methods. |
What Essential Features Should You Look for in a Table Top Steam Oven?
When looking for essential features in a table top steam oven, consider the following:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Steam Functionality | Ensure it has a reliable steam generation system for effective cooking. |
| Size and Capacity | Look for an oven that fits your kitchen space and can accommodate your cooking needs. |
| Temperature Control | Adjustable temperature settings allow for versatility in cooking methods. |
| Ease of Cleaning | Non-stick interiors and removable components make cleanup easier. |
| Cooking Modes | Multiple cooking modes (steaming, baking, roasting) enhance functionality. |
| Energy Efficiency | Check for energy-saving features to reduce electricity consumption. |
| Safety Features | Look for auto shut-off and cool-touch exteriors for safety. |
| Warranty and Support | A good warranty and customer support can provide peace of mind. |
What Are the Top Table Top Steam Oven Models and Their Unique Advantages?
The top table top steam oven models along with their unique advantages are as follows:
| Model | Unique Advantages | Price Range | Energy Efficiency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BOV900BSS | Smart features, multiple cooking functions, and precise temperature control. | $300 – $400 | Yes |
| Panasonic NN-SD975S | Inverter technology for even cooking, large capacity, and fast cooking times. | $250 – $350 | Yes |
| Hamilton Beach 31107 | Affordable, versatile with multiple cooking options, and compact design. | $100 – $150 | No |
| Viking Professional 5 Series | High-end build quality, powerful steam capabilities, and stylish design. | $1,000 – $1,500 | Yes |
Which Table Top Steam Oven Provides Optimal Cooking Performance?
| Model | Cooking Performance | Features | Price | Capacity | Power |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BOV900BSS | Highly rated for even cooking | Multi-function, LCD display, 13 cooking functions | $299.95 | 1 cubic foot | 1800 watts |
| Cuisinart CSO-300N | Good steam control | Steam and convection; 7 functions | $199.95 | 0.6 cubic feet | 1800 watts |
| Hamilton Beach 31107 | Decent performance | Convection, easy to use | $129.99 | 0.9 cubic feet | 1500 watts |
| Panasonic NN-CD87KS | Excellent for reheating and cooking | Microwave and convection combo | $399.95 | 1.2 cubic feet | 1000 watts |
Which Table Top Steam Oven is Most Intuitive and Easy to Use?
| Oven Model | User Interface | Features | Ease of Use | Price Range | Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville BOV900BSS | LCD display with intuitive controls | Smart features, multiple cooking modes | Very easy, clear instructions | $300 – $400 | Large |
| Panasonic NN-SD945S | Touchscreen panel | Inverter technology, sensor cooking | Simple, user-friendly | $200 – $300 | Medium |
| KitchenAid KCO255BM | Knob and buttons | Multiple functions, removable crumb tray | Easy to operate, straightforward settings | $150 – $250 | Compact |
| Wolf Gourmet WGST080S | Analog controls | Advanced cooking options, precise temperature | Intuitive but may require some learning | $600 – $700 | Large |
How Does a Table Top Steam Oven Compare to Standard Ovens in Terms of Functionality?
Table top steam ovens and standard ovens differ in several key functionalities:
| Feature | Table Top Steam Oven | Standard Oven |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Method | Uses steam for cooking, which helps retain moisture and nutrients | Uses dry heat, suitable for baking, roasting, and broiling |
| Size | Compact and portable, ideal for small spaces | Larger and typically built-in, requires more kitchen space |
| Energy Efficiency | Generally more energy-efficient due to quicker cooking times | Can be less efficient, especially for smaller meals |
| Versatility | Limited to steaming and some baking | More versatile with various cooking techniques available |
| Ease of Use | Often simpler controls, easier for quick meals | More features and settings, may have a steeper learning curve |
| Cooking Time | Typically faster cooking times due to steam | Varies widely depending on the method used |
| Health Benefits | Retains more vitamins and minerals in food | Can lead to nutrient loss in some cooking methods |
What Maintenance Tips Can Help Prolong the Life of Your Table Top Steam Oven?
To prolong the life of your tabletop steam oven, consider the following maintenance tips:
| Maintenance Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Regular Cleaning | Regularly clean the interior and exterior to prevent buildup of food particles and grease. |
| Use Appropriate Cleaning Materials | Use soft cloths and non-abrasive cleaners to avoid scratching surfaces. |
| Water Reservoir Maintenance | Check and clean the water reservoir frequently to prevent mineral deposits. |
| Ventilation | Ensure proper ventilation around the oven to avoid overheating. |
| Seal Inspection | Inspect the seals and gaskets for wear and replace them if necessary. |
| Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions | Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance and usage to prevent misuse. |