As someone who loves multifunctional kitchen appliances, I’ve tested both the Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 and the Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1. At first glance, they look similar; both combine microwave, convection oven, and air fryer functions in one unit. But after using them side by side, I noticed some key differences in cooking technology, presets, and performance that really set them apart. If you’re debating between these two premium countertop ovens, here’s my hands-on comparison.
Key Difference Between Breville Combi Wave vs Panasonic HomeChef
The main difference is that the Breville Combi Wave is a 3-in-1 unit (microwave, convection oven, and air fryer), while the Panasonic HomeChef adds a fourth function with its FlashXpress broiler. Breville shines with 19 smart presets, ultra-quiet operation, and its Element IQ system that optimizes cooking power.
Panasonic, on the other hand, offers a slightly larger 1.2 cu. ft. capacity, powerful FlashXpress broiling, and Genius Sensor Cooking that takes the guesswork out of reheating and defrosting.
- 3-IN-1 APPLIANCE: Combines Air Fryer, Convection Oven and Microwave into one versatile kitchen...
- The Ultimate All-In-One Multi Oven: It’s a countertop microwave, broiler, airfryer, and convection...
A Quick Specs Comparison Table: Breville Combi Wave vs Panasonic HomeChef
| Feature | Breville Combi Wave (BMO870BSS) | Panasonic HomeChef (NN-CD87KS) |
| Functions | 3-in-1: Microwave, Convection Oven, Air Fryer | 4-in-1: Microwave, Convection Bake, Air Fryer, FlashXpress Broiler |
| Capacity | 1.1 cu. ft. | 1.2 cu. ft. |
| Microwave Power | 1200W (Inverter) | 1000W (Inverter) |
| Convection Power | 1400W | Up to 425°F bake |
| Special Features | Element IQ System, 19 smart presets, Fast Combi, Cook from Frozen, Quiet Door | Genius Sensor Cook, Turbo Defrost, FlashXpress Broiler, AirFry Basket |
| Noise Level | Ultra-quiet, soft close door | Standard operation |
| Accessories | Combi Crisp Pan, Trivet | Turntable, Wire Rack, Enamel Tray, AirFry Basket |
| Dimensions | 20.08″D x 20.47″W x 12.6″H | 17.7″D x 22″W x 13.5″H |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |
| Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Between Breville Combi Wave vs Panasonic HomeChef: Detailed Comparison
Design & Build
Both appliances have a premium stainless steel finish, but they differ in style and footprint. The Breville Combi Wave feels sleek and compact, with clever touches like a soft-close door and quiet operation. Panasonic’s HomeChef is slightly taller and deeper, but that extra space translates into a bigger interior capacity (1.2 cu. ft. vs 1.1 cu. ft.), making it easier to fit larger dishes.
Performance & Cooking Functions
Using the Breville Combi Wave, I was impressed by how smart its cooking felt. The Element IQ System automatically adjusts power for even cooking, my lasagna came out evenly heated without dry edges, and air frying chicken wings gave me a nice golden crisp.
The Panasonic HomeChef stood out with its FlashXpress Broiler, which made toast and garlic bread perfectly browned. Its Air Fryer mode worked well for fries and nuggets, and the Genius Sensor automatically detected cooking time for reheating leftovers.
Both delivered crispy air fry results and precise convection baking, but Breville’s Fast Combi function shaved time off dinner prep by combining microwave + convection + grill power simultaneously.
- 3-IN-1 APPLIANCE: Combines Air Fryer, Convection Oven and Microwave into one versatile kitchen...
- The Ultimate All-In-One Multi Oven: It’s a countertop microwave, broiler, airfryer, and convection...
Ease of Use
Breville packs in 19 smart presets for everything from pizza to chocolate melting, all accessible from a shortcuts panel. The +30 instant start and “A Bit More” button were lifesavers for small adjustments.
Panasonic has fewer presets but makes up for it with its Genius Sensor Cook and Turbo Defrost, which automatically adjust time and power. I found Panasonic more beginner-friendly, while Breville offered more control for advanced cooks.
Breville Combi Wave Microwave, Air Fryer and Convection Oven
- 3-IN-1 APPLIANCE: Combines Air Fryer, Convection Oven and Microwave into one versatile kitchen...
Pros √
- 19 smart presets for versatile cooking
- Element IQ for precise power distribution
- Fast Combi mode cooks faster than a standard oven
- Ultra-quiet operation with soft-close door
- Compact, premium design
Cons x
- Slightly smaller capacity (1.1 cu. ft.)
- Pricier than Panasonic
Panasonic HomeChef Microwave Oven with Air Fryer
- The Ultimate All-In-One Multi Oven: It’s a countertop microwave, broiler, airfryer, and convection...
Pros √
- 4-in-1 with extra FlashXpress Broiler
- Larger 1.2 cu. ft. capacity
- Genius Sensor Cook & Turbo Defrost simplify cooking
- Includes AirFry basket and multiple accessories
- Can function as a main or secondary oven
Cons x
- Louder than Breville during use
- Fewer one-touch presets
Conclusion: Breville Combi Wave vs Panasonic HomeChef
If you want a smart, quiet, and highly customizable multi-oven, the Breville Combi Wave is the winner; perfect for foodies who want control over every dish. But if you value a slightly larger capacity, broiling capability, and beginner-friendly automation, the Panasonic HomeChef is a fantastic choice.
Personally, I lean towards the Breville Combi Wave for its Fast Combi cooking and ultra-quiet operation, but I’d recommend the Panasonic HomeChef if you often broil, bake larger meals, or want an easier learning curve.
