- The IKEA Gåtebo combines microwave, air fryer, and grill functionalities
- Priced at $199 / £150 / $299, it's a budget-friendly alternative to traditional combi cookers
- When paired with the compact Tillreda induction stove, it can effectively replace your oven
IKEA's versatile Gåtebo microwave has gained immense popularity since its European launch last year, and is now available globally for just $199 / £150 / $299. Its compact size is comparable to a standard freestanding microwave, yet it offers a multitude of cooking functions that make it a suitable replacement for a conventional oven in smaller households.
Imagine the possibilities with the extra space you could create. You could fit in a dishwasher, install under-counter bins for waste sorting, add a full-size water softener, or simply have more storage for your cooking essentials.
While microwave and air fryer combos are not entirely new, they present a great solution for those who have hesitated to buy an air fryer due to limited kitchen space. For instance, even the compact Ninja Double Stack occupies a footprint of 11 x 18.5 inches (28cm x 47cm), which can be quite substantial in a cramped kitchen.
The Gåtebo offers various cooking options, including microwave, grill, air fry, defrost, and warming functions, along with two combination cooking modes (microwave and grill, and microwave and convection). If you're unsure where to start, the manual provides detailed instructions for popular dishes like french fries, potato wedges, chicken wings, and nuggets.
Concerned about cooking rice and pasta? You don't have to give up your stove when you ditch your oven. IKEA offers a wide range of affordable induction hobs, including the portable Tillreda, priced at just $74.99 / £45 / AU$49, which can be easily stored away when not in use.
The Gåtebo is remarkably economical as well. For comparison, our top-rated microwave and air fryer combo, the Samsung Combi Smart Microwave Oven, costs over double at £329 (approximately $440 / AU$660).
While I haven't had the chance to test the Gåtebo yet, I look forward to reviewing it soon to see if it earns a spot in our roundup of the best air fryers. It might even rival the Samsung Combi.