In our test kitchen, and indeed in my own home, countertop real estate is a fiercely contested territory. There’s the toaster, the air fryer, the kettle, and the bulky, single-purpose microwave that’s used for little more than reheating yesterday’s coffee or zapping a ready meal. It often feels like we’ve accumulated a collection of specialized gadgets that, while useful, contribute to a sense of clutter and inefficiency. The dream has always been to find one single, powerful appliance that could consolidate these roles—a device that can not only reheat but also grill, bake, and even proof dough, freeing up precious space and streamlining the cooking process. This isn’t just about tidiness; it’s about reclaiming the kitchen as a creative, functional space. The failure to find such a solution means compromising on culinary ambitions or resigning oneself to a permanently cluttered work surface, a frustration many home cooks know all too well.
- Smart Moisture Sensor - With the simple push of a button, Samsung’s distinct Smart Moisture Sensor determines interior air humidity to respect natural texture and original taste of ingredients
- Pre-programmed Recipes - Easily cook everything - from green beans to brown rice, boneless chicken breast to Grilled salmon steaks
What to Consider Before Buying a Combination Microwave
A combination microwave is far more than a simple reheating box; it’s a key solution for versatile, fast, and efficient cooking in modern kitchens. By integrating microwave, grill, and convection oven technologies into a single unit, it solves the problem of limited space and the need for multiple appliances. This allows users to defrost mince, grill sausages, bake cakes, and roast a small chicken, all within one compact footprint. The primary benefit is unparalleled versatility, saving both time and energy compared to preheating a large conventional oven for smaller meals. We find that the ability to combine functions—for instance, using microwave and grill power simultaneously—results in food that is cooked through quickly yet finishes with a desirable crispy, brown texture.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the challenges of a smaller kitchen, such as in an apartment or flat, or a busy family looking to prepare varied meals quickly. It’s also perfect for avid home cooks who would benefit from a secondary oven during large gatherings. Conversely, it might not be suitable for those who only ever use a microwave for the most basic tasks like defrosting and reheating. For these individuals, a simpler, less expensive solo microwave would be more than adequate. If your primary need is just rapid reheating, the advanced features and higher cost of a combination model would be an unnecessary expense. You can explore its full range of cooking functions to see if they match your culinary style.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: A combination microwave is typically larger and heavier than its solo counterpart. Before purchasing, meticulously measure your intended countertop space, ensuring there is adequate ventilation clearance around the back, top, and sides as specified by the manufacturer. The Samsung MC28A5125AK 28L Combination Microwave, for example, has dimensions of 47.6 x 51.7 x 31 cm, which requires a substantial footprint.
- Capacity & Performance: Capacity, measured in litres, determines the size of dishes you can accommodate. A 28-litre capacity, like this Samsung model offers, is generous for most families, fitting large dinner plates and even a small chicken. Performance is dictated by wattage; 900 watts of microwave power is robust for quick cooking, but also check the power ratings for the grill and convection oven to ensure they meet your expectations for browning and baking.
- Materials & Durability: The interior material is critical for both cooking performance and longevity. Many high-end models, including this one, feature a ceramic enamel interior. We find this surface to be superior to standard painted steel as it is highly scratch-resistant, anti-bacterial, and exceptionally easy to clean—spatters and grease wipe away with minimal effort.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: An intuitive control panel is essential. Look for a clear display and a logical combination of dials and buttons. Pre-programmed auto-cook and defrost menus can be a huge time-saver, removing the guesswork from common tasks. Long-term care involves regular cleaning of the interior, turntable, and grill element to maintain performance and hygiene.
While the Samsung MC28A5125AK 28L Combination Microwave is an excellent choice for those seeking versatility, it’s always wise to see how it compares to other types of microwaves. If you suspect a combination model might be overkill for your needs, a simpler solo microwave could be the perfect fit. For a broader look at those models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- MIRRORED FINISH - The Russell Hobbs RHM2076B features a sleek black body and contemporary mirror door finish
- Ceramic Enamel Interior - It's exceptionally smooth antibacterial surface makes it easy to clean. It is also highly rust and scratch resistant so it won't discolour over time.
- COMPACT EVERYDAY COOKING: A practical 20L capacity with a 24.5cm glass turntable fits standard dinner plates and bowls, delivering reliable, even heating for quick meals, snacks and reheats in busy...
First Impressions and Key Features of the Samsung MC28A5125AK 28L Combination Microwave
Upon unboxing the Samsung MC28A5125AK 28L Combination Microwave, the first thing we noticed was its substantial and premium feel. The sleek, all-black finish and minimalist design give it a modern aesthetic that would complement most contemporary kitchens. At 17.8 kg, it has a reassuring heft, suggesting quality components within. Setting it up was straightforward: remove the packaging, place the large 318mm glass turntable on its roller ring, and plug it in. The control panel, a mix of a mechanical knob and touch buttons, feels responsive and well-organized. The bright LED display is easy to read from a distance. Compared to older combination models we’ve tested, which often suffer from cluttered interfaces, Samsung has done an admirable job of keeping the controls clean and relatively intuitive. One user’s comment about it being “quite big but works great” is spot-on; this is not a compact appliance, but its capabilities certainly justify the space it occupies. It feels like a serious piece of kitchen equipment, ready to tackle a wide array of culinary tasks right out of the box. You can check the latest price and availability for this model here.
What We Like
- Highly versatile with microwave, grill, and convection oven functions
- Smart Moisture Sensor for perfectly cooked, never-dry food
- Unique fermentation function for making homemade dough and yoghurt
- Generous 28-litre capacity with a large 318mm turntable
What We Didn’t Like
- Some user reports raise concerns about long-term reliability after the warranty period
- Requires a significant amount of countertop space due to its large size
In-Depth Performance Analysis: How the Samsung MC28A5125AK Cooks in the Real World
A combination microwave lives or dies by its performance across its various functions. It’s one thing to list features on a spec sheet, but it’s another entirely to see how they translate into perfectly cooked meals, day after day. We put the Samsung MC28A5125AK 28L Combination Microwave through a rigorous series of tests in our kitchen, from simple reheating to complex baking, to see if it truly is the all-in-one workhorse it claims to be. Our findings were, for the most part, deeply impressive, revealing a machine with some genuinely game-changing technology under its hood.
The SensorCook Revolution: Beyond Basic Reheating
Perhaps the most transformative feature we tested is Samsung’s Smart Moisture Sensor, marketed under the SensorCook banner. Anyone who has ever turned a delicious plate of leftovers into a sad, rubbery puck will understand the limitations of traditional timed microwaving. The SensorCook technology aims to eliminate this guesswork entirely. Internally, the microwave constantly measures the humidity level of the air inside the cooking cavity. As food heats, it releases steam, and by detecting the precise point at which the food is perfectly heated through, the machine automatically adjusts the remaining cooking time and power level. We first tested this with a notoriously difficult item: leftover spaghetti bolognese. Instead of setting a time, we simply selected the sensor reheat option. The result was astonishing. The pasta was piping hot, the sauce was bubbling, and crucially, nothing was dry or tough. The sensor had shut the microwave off at the perfect moment. We achieved similar success with a whole jacket potato, which cooked through to a fluffy, steaming interior without any hard spots. This technology is a genuine leap forward, preserving the texture and taste of food in a way that manual timing rarely can. It elevates the appliance from a simple reheater to a smart cooking tool, a feature that really sets it apart from basic models.
A True Combination Powerhouse: Grilling, Baking, and Beyond
The “combination” aspect is where this machine truly shines. We first tested the 1500W grill function. Using the included wire rack to bring the food closer to the heating element, we made a round of cheese on toast. The grill produced a beautifully golden, bubbling top in just a few minutes, far quicker than a conventional oven grill. Next, we moved on to the convection oven function, which can reach up to 200°C. We baked a 12-inch frozen pizza, a common task for any oven. The Samsung MC28A5125AK 28L Combination Microwave preheated quickly and cooked the pizza evenly, with a crisp base and perfectly melted cheese in about 15 minutes. While it may not replace a full-size oven for a large family’s Sunday roast, it proved itself to be an incredibly capable secondary oven, perfect for side dishes, baking small batches of cookies, or cooking weeknight meals without the long preheat time and energy consumption of a large appliance. The true magic happens with the combi-modes, which use microwave energy to cook the food rapidly from the inside while the grill or convection heat browns and crisps the outside. We cooked chicken thighs this way, and they emerged with crispy skin and juicy, tender meat in under 25 minutes—a result that speaks to the unit’s immense versatility and power. It’s this multi-functionality that makes it such a compelling choice for modern kitchens.
The Secret Weapon for Home Bakers: Dough & Yoghurt Fermentation
This is a feature that you simply don’t find on most microwaves and one that immediately caught our attention. The specialized fermentation function uses advanced technology to maintain a precise, stable, low-temperature environment—the perfect conditions for activating yeast in dough or cultures in yoghurt. As keen bakers, we were eager to test the dough proofing setting. We prepared a standard bread dough and placed it inside the microwave on this setting. The machine gently warmed the cavity, creating a draft-free, consistently warm space that is notoriously difficult to achieve in a typical home kitchen. Within an hour, our dough had perfectly doubled in size, creating a light, airy structure that baked into a beautiful loaf. We also experimented with making homemade yoghurt, combining milk with a starter culture and letting the machine work its magic overnight. We woke up to thick, creamy, tangy yoghurt that was far superior to many store-bought varieties. This single feature transforms the Samsung MC28A5125AK 28L Combination Microwave from a cooking appliance into a creative culinary tool, opening up new possibilities for enthusiasts who want to explore baking and fermenting without buying yet another specialized gadget. It’s an unexpected but brilliantly executed addition that adds enormous value and justifies the investment. We were thoroughly impressed by this sophisticated and thoughtful feature.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, the feedback for the Samsung MC28A5125AK 28L Combination Microwave presents a tale of two distinct experiences. On one hand, there is a strong sense of brand loyalty and satisfaction with its performance. One long-time user, who had an almost identical Samsung model for over 12 years, was so impressed with its longevity and functionality that they immediately purchased this new version when their old one finally gave out, calling it “reunited with an old friend.” This speaks volumes about the core design and cooking capabilities, suggesting that when the unit works, it works exceptionally well for a very long time.
However, it is impossible to ignore a more critical counter-narrative. A significant concern raised by another user involves the product’s lifespan, specifically pointing to failures of the microwave function and control buttons occurring just after the warranty expires. This user’s frustration is palpable, framing the issue as a potential manufacturing defect and a significant environmental waste. This is a serious point of consideration for any potential buyer, highlighting a potential risk in the long-term reliability of the appliance. It suggests that while the day-to-day performance is excellent, there may be a question mark over its durability beyond the manufacturer’s guarantee period.
How Does It Compare? Samsung MC28A5125AK vs. The Competition
While the Samsung MC28A5125AK 28L Combination Microwave is a formidable contender, it’s crucial to see how it stacks up against other popular models on the market, each of which caters to slightly different needs and priorities.
1. Russell Hobbs RHEM2301B 23L Flatbed Microwave
- The easiest and most instinctive microwave with 4 simple buttons that allow you to Microwave, Defrost, Start and Stop/Cancel.
- No complicated auto cook menus or power levels.
The Russell Hobbs RHEM2301B presents a compelling alternative for those who prioritize ease of cleaning and consistent heating over multi-functionality. Its key differentiator is the flatbed design, which completely eliminates the need for a turntable. This not only allows it to accommodate larger, rectangular dishes that wouldn’t fit in a traditional microwave but also makes the interior an absolute breeze to wipe clean. With a 23L capacity and 800W of power, it’s slightly smaller and less powerful than the Samsung, and it is a solo microwave, meaning it lacks any grill or convection features. This is the ideal choice for a user whose primary needs are reheating, defrosting, and cooking simple meals, and who values low maintenance above all else.
2. Samsung MS23K3513AK 23L Solo Microwave Black
- Ceramic Enamel Interior - It's exceptionally smooth antibacterial surface makes it easy to clean. It is also highly rust and scratch resistant so it won't discolour over time.
- Eco mode - reduce the use of your standby power with eco mode to help save money on your energy bills.
For those who are drawn to Samsung’s quality and design but don’t require the advanced features of a combination model, the MS23K3513AK is the logical alternative. As Samsung’s own solo microwave offering, it shares the brand’s sleek aesthetic and user-friendly interface, including the easy-to-clean ceramic enamel interior. At 23 litres, it’s a more compact option suitable for smaller kitchens or individuals. It focuses on executing the core microwave functions perfectly, offering quick defrost and a range of auto-cook programs. This model is best for the brand-loyal customer who wants a reliable, high-quality appliance for everyday tasks without the higher price tag and larger footprint of the combination model.
3. Nostalgia Retro 800-Watt Microwave Oven
- 800 watts cooking power: At 25L, this microwave provides the cooking power needed to quickly cook and reheat foods
- Convenient cooking controls: 12 pre programmed cooking settings, delay timer and express cooking provide options for the optimal heating of popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potatoes, veggies and...
The Nostalgia Retro Microwave stands in stark contrast to the Samsung, competing not on cutting-edge technology but on pure aesthetic appeal. This microwave is a style statement. With its vibrant red colour, chrome accents, and retro dial, it’s designed for someone who is building a specific look in their kitchen. Functionally, it’s a capable 800-watt solo microwave with a 25.4L capacity and 12 pre-programmed settings. However, it lacks the SensorCook, convection, grill, and fermentation functions of the MC28A5125AK. A user would choose the Nostalgia model if the visual design is their primary purchasing driver and their cooking needs are relatively basic. It’s for the person who values form as much as, if not more than, function.
The Final Verdict: Is the Samsung MC28A5125AK 28L Combination Microwave a Smart Investment?
After extensive testing and analysis, we can confidently say that the Samsung MC28A5125AK 28L Combination Microwave is a deeply impressive and remarkably versatile kitchen appliance. Its ability to seamlessly switch between powerful microwaving, effective grilling, and true fan-assisted convection baking makes it a genuine space-saver, capable of replacing several other gadgets. The standout features—the intelligent Smart Moisture Sensor that prevents food from drying out and the unique fermentation function for dough and yoghurt—elevate it from a mere convenience item to a creative culinary partner. It is ideally suited for small families, avid home cooks, or anyone living in a space-challenged home who refuses to compromise on their cooking capabilities.
However, the user reports concerning post-warranty failures are a valid point of caution that must be weighed. While our performance experience was flawless, this potential longevity issue is a risk factor. Ultimately, we recommend the Samsung MC28A5125AK 28L Combination Microwave for the user who will take full advantage of its rich feature set. If you see yourself baking, grilling, and fermenting, its value is immense. If you’re ready to consolidate your kitchen appliances into one intelligent and powerful hub, you can find the best price and order yours here.
Last update on 2025-11-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API