The best ovens for baking, roasting and grilling, with advice from an expert

Choosing the best oven for your kitchen can feel daunting. If you love to cook at home you’ll be using it daily and relying on it to not only cook your evening meals, but possibly even to impress friends and family with your creations. From roast dinners to pies and even baking up special treats – whether it’s an electric oven or gas oven, it needs to be able to handle anything.

Just like the best microwave, daily energy efficiency is important to consider, as is the type of fuel you need, whether that’s electric, gas or even dual fuel. The size of the oven is vital too. If you often cook multiple dishes at the same time you may want to choose a double oven, while if you are just cooking for yourself a single oven could serve you just fine.

With prices ranging from just under £200 to more than £2,000 and brands including Hotpoint, Neff, Samsung, Indesit and Stoves, the choices out there can feel overwhelming. New ovens also now come with a myriad of extra features, such as pyrolytic cleaning systems, pre-set cooking programmes, built-in microwaves and even air fryers.

We asked an oven expert to recommend the best ovens. You can read our picks below, but if you’re in a hurry here’s a quick look at the top five.

What are the best ovens in 2024? At a glance

• Best oven overall – AEG DEB331010M Electric Double oven
• Best value oven – Hisense Hi6 Oven
• Best compact/single oven– Samsung Bespoke Series 5 NQ5B5763DBK single oven
• Best budget oven – Indesit Aria IFW6340IX Built In Electric Single Oven
• Best eco-friendly oven – Beko Aero Perfect RecyledNet single oven

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What are the different types of ovens?

“When you’re looking for a new oven there are three main types to choose from – conventional, convection (fan-assisted) and combination, which give you the option of both,” explains Jay Lockton, built-in cooking expert at AO. “In simple terms, for most households, combination ovens often offer the best value for money since you can choose to have the fan-assisted cooking option, or the conventional (non-fan) heating option to provide the greatest cooking versatility.”

Simply put, convection or fan-assisted ovens use fans to evenly circulate hot air inside the oven to ensure food cooks evenly, whilst conventional ovens simply heat the air inside the oven cavity.

How we choose the best ovens

To help you find the right oven, I asked the independent advice of an experienced built-in cooking expert at AO, Jay Lockton. He advised me on the best ovens based on size, capacity, energy rating and heating ability (whether it is fan assisted or conventional) and temperature regulation.

I also considered any added features like self-cleaning functions and pre-programmed settings, ease of use and smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity. Design was an important factor too: your oven is a key part of your kitchen layout, so it needs to look good and perform well.

Best ovens

1. AEG 6000 SurroundCook Clean enamel Oven

£449.99, AEG

Best oven overall, 10/10

We like: you can grill and oven cook at the same time

We don’t like: there’s no auto-cleaning function

• A/A energy rating
• 66 Litre capacity
• SurroundCook technology

Of all the ovens on this list, this built-in double oven stood out because it has a generous capacity and oven cavity size, not to mention the fact you can roast or bake two dishes at the same time. “It wins points overall thanks to its large 66 litre capacity, efficient heat distribution and competitive price,” explains Lockton.

In this double oven you can grill, use a conventional oven setting or cook fan-assisted at the same time, which is great for cooking different types of food at once. However, the one very unique function here is AEG’s SurroundCook technology. “It blows hot air at each shelf, so your food is cooked evenly and there aren’t hotspots or cold spots,” explains Lockton.

This efficient heating system means that cooking temperatures can be reduced by up to 20 per cent as a result, helping to save on energy bills in the long run. The main downside, explains our expert, is there’s no self-cleaning function, so cleaning has to happen manually – but on the plus side, the enamel interior should make wiping away grease and grime easier. Bonus points for the oven’s anti-fingerprint exterior - which should mean it stays looking clean and glossy long after your purchase. A great overall choice from our experts, especially as it has a price tag under £500.

2. Hisense Hi6 Oven

£639, AO

Best value oven, 10/10

We like: the A+ energy rating and large capacity

We don’t like: the auto-cooking functions might be complicated for some

• A+ energy rating
• 77 litres
• Pyrolytic cleaning, steam function, automatic weight cooking option

This slick-looking and generously sized oven is a great all-rounder for a family home. Although it’s technically a single oven, it still has a large 77 litre capacity. Lockton believes its smart controls are one of its stand out features: “It can connect to your Wi-Fi and mobile for greater control.”

This oven has a unique cavity shape too – designed like a wood-fired oven to ensure even heat circulation. There is also a steam function, allowing you to add water to a special tray that will ensure baked goods like bread or croissants develop a golden crust on the outside but stay light and airy inside.

Cleaning your oven regularly is never fun, so Lockton also highlights the self-cleaning function of this Hisense oven: “The Pyrolytic cleaning function enables the oven to self-clean by burning the grease away at a high temperature, which means you only have to wipe it away after the cleaning cycle is complete.”

There are a wealth of extra features too, such as an Auto-Program feature, although some of these can feel a bit overwhelming. But it’s worth mastering the technology, according to Lockton, as it’s a great value buy for its capabilities and features.

3. Samsung Bespoke Series 5 NQ5B5763DBK

£789, Samsung

Best single oven, 9/10

We like: the built-in microwave and air fryer functions

We don’t like: the neat size means cooking larger meals is challenging

• A+ energy rating
• 50 Litre
• Microwave, Steam, Airfrying

If space is at a premium, this neat-looking oven is equipped with a whole range of extra features including a microwave and air fryer function. This means you won’t need to buy these as separate appliances – saving money as well as valuable worktop space. There’s a fan-assisted function too, so you can choose multiple ways to cook or reheat food.

It also has an added steam tray that you can add water to before the cooking process – helping to keep food moist and prevent dryness. “With this oven, you can get the best of both worlds. It steam cleans itself and operates as a microwave when you’re looking for those quick, easy meals,” explains Lockton. “It’s smartphone-friendly too, so you have the added bonus of controlling it remotely. The oven air fry function is a big plus-point, allowing you healthier cooking choices.”

The main drawback, our expert explained, was the small oven size – the cooking cavity is around 45cm high, so cooking larger items or several dishes could be challenging. But the fact that you can use this oven in so many ways, and can save on other appliances, makes it very appealing.

4. Indesit Aria IFW6340IX Built In Electric Single Oven

£178, Very

Best budget oven, 7/10

We like: the removable glass door for easy cleaning

We don’t like: the design looks a little basic

• A energy rating
• 66 Litres
• Fan-assisted cooking, Click&Clean removable doors

For a single oven, this model has a generous capacity of 66 litres. Expert Lockton explains that this model is not only a great price for a fan-assisted oven, but it’s also an “A-rated appliance, and in terms of energy efficient this is a real plus, meaning you could you save on your bills.”

A highlight is its full-surface grill which ensures your food will be cooked evenly without hotspots or burnt bits. Our expert also adds that he is a fan of the oven’s “handy Click & Clean function which allows you to remove the glass from the door for cleaning purposes.”

However, it’s important to note this oven doesn’t have the high-spec extra functions of many other new ovens, such as digital programming or pyrolytic or hydrolytic self-cleaning systems, meaning you’ll have to use elbow grease to clean it by hand. But the tiltable grill and removable doors are designed to make this easier.

There aren’t many extras on this oven and the stainless steel design is simplistic, but it’s great value for money, especially if you’re thinking of updating your old oven but don’t want to spend more than £200. Lockton says it’s a great option if you’re looking to “trade a gas oven in for an electric model.”

5. Beko Aero Perfect RecyledNet single oven

£199, AO

Best eco-friendly oven, 7/10

We like: the recycled components

We don’t like: the design looks a little clunky

• A energy rating
• 72 Litre
• SimplySteam cleaning and AeroPerfect technology

If you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint without breaking the bank, this Beko model uses recycled fishing nets to make components in the oven’s door and display. “As well as its impressive eco-friendly credentials, this oven is a great affordable option too. It has a self-cleaning function which will help remove any oven grease and it is equipped with Beko’s AeroPerfect technology which is designed to help to ensure heat is evenly spread around the appliance.”

The oven is also generously-sized and although it’s classified as a single oven, it has a large 72 litre capacity, so it could suit a family kitchen. It also has a fan-assisted grilling function to help with even crispiness during cooking.

However, it feels like a few corners have been cut on the design – there are no shelf stoppers or telescopic runners for the shelves, which feels a little dated given many ovens have these as a basic requirement . The good news is there is a hydrolytic steam cleaning function, called SimplySteam, in this oven – which is unexpected considering the price tag – and the fact that some more expensive models lack a self-cleaning function. Given the eco-friendly credentials too, this could be a solid choice if you’re on a budget.

6. Stoves Richmond Deluxe Dual Fuel Cooker

£1,999, Hughes

Best dual fuel oven, 8/10

We like: the versatile gas hob

We don’t like: this oven takes up a lot of space

• A energy rating
• 33 – 44 Litres
• Four ovens, PowerWok gas hob, easy clean

This aga-designed oven manages to look both contemporary and traditional at the same time – but for nearly £2,000 is elegance enough? Although the four ovens are electric, it comes with a built-in seven burner gas hob that has a PowerWok function, meaning it quickly and evenly delivers heat to the bottom of your pan, minimising hotspots and burnt areas, which can often be an issue when it comes to cooking with gas.

“If you enjoy cooking, this range cooker offers an elevated experience and is very dynamic. It includes Stoves’ Equiflow technology, which spreads heat across each shelf evenly and the four spacious oven cavities can cater for any size meal,” says Lockton.

It also has a built-in slow cooker function and fan-assisted capabilities as well as a grill. This is one of the most expensive models our expert recommended – but one plus is that, like many others on the list, this oven means there’s no need to shell out for a separate hob. Our expert says it is important to note it won’t suit kitchens that require a built-in oven, though you’ll need plenty of space for it. It’s 100cm wide and given most built-in ovens are around the 60cm mark, this might not suit small or medium-sized kitchens.

7. Rangemaster CLA100NGFCY/C

£2,279, Rangemaster

Best oven and grill, 7/10

We like: it’s undeniably gorgeous

We don’t like: there aren’t many extra functions for the steep price

• A/A energy rating
• Capacity: 79 + 65 + 34 Litres (three cavities)
• Extra features: Ceramic hob, separate grill, glide-out grill

This hefty range oven is as good-looking as it is well designed. It has the traditional appeal that would suit period properties or country kitchens, but the glossy colour choices of cranberry, cream or classic black give it a contemporary feel too.

“This oven is very versatile because it boasts two electric ovens and a separate grill, as well as a five-burner ceramic hob. It’s not cheap, but it is a statement oven that will stand the test of time both in looks and durability,” says Lockton. That said, don’t expect many high-tech features, pre-set programmes or a self-cleaning function - something which the experts say let the model down.

This oven won points for its standalone grill and the fact it has easy-glide runners which slide without too much effort and don’t catch. The main oven also has a plate warming rack, which could come in handy. When it comes to cleaning, the oven interior has catalytic liners which are designed to not absorb grime and grease. Even though it requires cleaning by hand, the liners mean the interior is easy to wipe clean.

8. Bosch CMA583MS0B Series 4 Built-In Combination Oven

£699, John Lewis

Best integrated oven, 9/10

We like: the quick cooking

We don’t like: the digital display is confusing

• B energy rating
• 44 litres capacity
• Microwave, Hydrolytic steam cleaning, pre-set cooking programmes

This streamlined oven gets top marks from our oven expert due to its extended capabilities – it’s fan-assisted and has both a built-in microwave and a hot air grill. For a single integrated oven, it has one of the largest interior capacities we’ve come across, too.

“Its 44-litre capacity makes it a great option for families, while it also has 15 cooking programmes that are easy to use. It’s a case of setting the weight of the dish and pressing ‘Start’. It calculates the cooking time and then automatically switches off once food is cooked, to help make life simpler,” explains Lockton.

It has a hydrolytic cleaning system, which uses steam, heated to high temperatures, to dislodge dirt and food splatters, which is definitely a plus point, particularly after using the microwave where splattering occurs easily. But what about the speed of cooking? Lockton explains that it “cooks food rapidly thanks to 900 Watts of power.”

Additionally, there’s a heating element underneath the cooking trays, which is helpful to crisp pizza bases, while features such as a child-safety lock make it ideal for family kitchens. However, our expert explains the digital display is a little confusing, so if you prefer simplicity this could be a drawback.

9. Neff Slide and Hide B3ACE4HN0B

£599, AO

Best built in oven, 8/10

We like: the CircoTherm fan function for even cooking

We don’t like: for the price, the manual dials let the design down

• A energy rating
• 71 Litres
• Slide and Hide Oven Doors, CircoTherm fan function, pyrolytic cleaning

Anyone who has watched The Great British Bake Off will have witnessed the Neff Slide and Hide oven doors in action and this built-in oven style was chosen for the show for a reason – it’s great from an ergonomic design perspective and allows you to check on food easily, particularly if your oven sits a little lower in your kitchen, as they do on Bake off.

“The Slide & Hide function easily allows users to slide the open oven door beneath the oven itself, giving easy access for removing dishes once they are cooked or checking on dishes during the cooking process and the door won’t get in your way on encroach on your kitchen whilst it’s open,” explains Lockton. “It heats up extremely quickly too, due to its pre-heating feature and it also incorporates convectional fans called Circo Therm to evenly distribute heat and more efficiently cook your food.”

At 71 litres capacity, it’s a good cavity size for most kitchens. It has an efficient energy rating so will help save on bills too. But for the price, the dial controls look a little clunky and aren’t as precise as some digital models, so Lockton believes this is worth bearing in mind if you prefer a more precise setting option.

10. Hotpoint DD2540BL

£379.99, Hotpoint

Best double oven, 8/10

We like: the precision temperature feature

We don’t like: there’s no self-cleaning system

• Energy rating: A
• Capacity: 74 + 42 Litres
• Functions: Slow cooking and defrost options and separate grill function

Finding an oven that can maintain the correct temperature can be challenging – and it’s quite often the one guarantee many people are looking for when replacing an older oven that has lost that capability over time. “This Hotpoint model does just that and is a good, affordable option that doesn’t feel like a compromise on quality,” says Lockton.

He goes on to add: “It’s energy efficient and has a Circulaire fan cooking capability to better distribute heat evenly between the shelves.” The fan system also helps to reduce cooking time by 20 per cent, a big plus if you’re looking to cut down your energy bills.

Both the main oven and top oven are generously sized and there are extra features like a slow-cooking function and a defrost function that don’t look overly complicated to use. It’s nice to have the option of the central grilling feature too, for saving energy when cooking smaller items or meals where you don’t need a full-surface grill.

From an aesthetic point of view, this oven looks smart and would definitely blend into most kitchens. Cleaning the Hotpoint oven might be the drawback though, according to Lockton – as there’s no self-cleaning system, but the enamel interior has been designed with cleaning in mind.

Oven FAQs

What should you look for when buying an oven?

Extra features are important to consider: “The latest ovens have self-cleaning functions which heat the oven to a high temperature to burn away or steam off food residue and grease, while others have Wi-Fi connectivity which allows you to control your oven from your smartphone,” says oven expert Jay Lockton.

Thinking about how you use your oven most weeks is important too – perhaps you love cooking roast dinners or homemade pizza? “These days many ovens have pre-programmed features to consider like broil, bake, roast, grill, defrost or even pizza settings, which can help enhance your home cooking.”

Taking your energy bills into account is vital since you may be using your oven multiple times a day: “You should look for an oven that’s as energy efficient as possible. By choosing an oven that consumes less electricity you’ll help lower your energy bills over time without compromising on overall cooking quality.”

“It’s a better idea to spend more initially on an oven that will save you money over time, so check the reviews and energy rating to find the most efficient model for your home.” In general terms, an energy efficiency rating of A or higher is ideal.

What is the difference between an electric oven and a gas oven?

An electric oven uses electricity to heat the oven’s elements which can offer a more precise temperature control. They’re good for households who bake a lot as they tend to distribute heat evenly and they also tend to heat up faster than their gas counterparts.

“Gas ovens differ by using gas to heat their internal elements, which can be better for cooking meat and can typically be cheaper to operate in the long run,” says Lockton, “The moist heat a traditional gas oven gives off can help prevent your food from drying out too, but they may not be able to distribute heat as effectively as an electric oven.”

What is the ideal oven size?

For a double oven, look for models over 75 litres. For a single oven, a good rule of thumb is 60 to 66 litres.

Which oven brand is the most energy efficient?

Samsung, AEG, Neff and Hisense produce consistently energy-efficient ovens.

What is the best way to keep my oven clean?

If your oven doesn’t have self-cleaning capabilities, you’ll need to clean the oven regularly. “Try to wipe down the inside of your oven after each use (when it’s cool) with a damp cloth or sponge. This prevents your food spillages from creating hard debris that’ll be harder to clear further down the track.

“Next, you should remove your oven racks and soak them in warm soapy water. Scrub off any grime and once dry you can pop them back into the oven. For hard-to-shift dirt, mix half and half of baking soda and water to a paste and apply to any affected area. Leave this for a few hours and you should be able to scrub it away with a soft brush or sponge.”