What’s inside this buyer’s guide

 

1. Introduction
2. What is a speed oven?
3. Benefits of a speed oven
4. Speed oven heating sources
5. How to choose the right speed oven for your needs
6. Other features to consider
7. Speed oven cooking times
8. Best speed ovens
9. Used speed ovens — worth considering?
10. Frequently asked questions
11. Speed oven glossary
12. Keep your cash, use ours!

 

 

Faster than a kangaroo, hotter than an outback summer – the commercial speed oven isn’t merely a tool, but the very heartbeat of your kitchen.

The unique combination of high-speed and excellent cooking quality makes them ideal for a variety of commercial settings, particularly those where time is of the essence and quality cannot be compromised.

If you’re in the market to buy a speed oven but not sure how to go about it, this commercial speed oven buyer’s guide is the ultimate handbook you need.

From available types to the best speed ovens in Australia, we have covered everything you need to know.  

 

 

What is a speed oven?

A speed oven, also known as a rapid cook oven or high-speed oven, is a compact high-tech cooking device powered by two or more types of heat transfer technologies.

Typically, it uses a combination of microwave technology, air impingement, convection, and radiant heating.

This results in cooking times that are significantly faster than conventional ovens, often up to 10-15 times faster, while still providing the quality and consistency of traditional cooking methods.

Speed ovens are ideal for settings where kitchen space is limited, as they often have a smaller footprint.

 

Speed oven Vs Microwave oven

The primary difference between a speed oven and a microwave oven lies in the use of heating technology.

While a pure microwave oven uses only microwave technology, a speed oven, on the other hand, goes above and beyond by using convection or radiant or both heating methods along with the microwave technology, ensuring faster and more consistent results.   

 

 

Benefits of a speed oven

Faster cooking

Speed ovens cook food faster than conventional ovens, considerably reducing wait times and increasing turnover rate.

Better quality

Despite their speed, they deliver the best quality and produce evenly cooked, perfectly browned dishes every time.

Consistent results

Speed ovens deliver consistent results, ensuring every dish comes out exactly as expected.

Versatile

They are extremely versatile, capable of baking, broiling, toasting, roasting, and more.

This allows commercial kitchens to prepare a diverse menu without needing additional equipment.

Saves space

Speed ovens combine the functions of multiple appliances, saving space in compact kitchens.

Energy efficient

These advanced ovens use less energy due to shorter cooking times, leading to energy savings.

 

 

 

Speed oven heating sources

Commercial high speed ovens use multiple heating sources for rapid and efficient cooking.

The different combinations of heating technology used by speed ovens include the below variants.

  

Impinged convection heating

These models use a combination of impingement and convection heating.

They target the convection current directly on the food being cooked by using impingement plates and fingers.

Speed ovens using this heating method are best suited for making pizzas with a crispy crust and well-melted cheese in minutes.

They are also ideal for making sandwiches, fries, toast, tortillas, and flatbread or for roasting chicken and veggies. 

 

Microwave and convection heating

As the name suggests, these speed ovens use microwave technology along with convection heating to cook food faster.

They are best for making deliciously toasted sandwiches, crispy chicken, crunchy nachos or mouth-watering cookies. 

 

Microwave and impinged convection heating

Microwave and impinged convection heating uses microwave technology plus impinged convection heating in the same unit, ensuring that the food cooks not only faster but also evenly from the inside with a crunchy crust from the outside.  

These are ideal for cooking a wide range of dishes, from haloumi fries, chicken wings and biscuits, to nachos, toasted sandwiches, bread, veggies and chicken roast. 

 

Microwave, convection and radiant heating

Here microwave technology is used in combination with convection and radiant heating, delivering the benefits of all three methods in a single unit.

These versatile speed ovens can bake cakes, prepare panini, or roast veggies, chicken breast or meat in minutes without compromising taste or texture.  

 

Microwave, impinged convection, and radiant heating

Some top-of-the-line models combine microwave, impinged convection as well as radiant heating – all in one oven, delivering maximum flexibility and, of course, great results with quick cook time.

From making pizzas, fries and tortillas to roasting meat, seafood or baking muffins and signature bread – they do it all to perfection. 

 

How to choose the right speed oven for your needs?

Manufacturers typically classify speed ovens under three categories according to their performance and capacity.

These are:

 

Entry-level

The entry-level models are generally less powerful compared to the other two variants.

Typically, they are less than 5000W with a cavity of less than one cubic ft.

These are also less expensive and cost around $4000 to $12000 in Australia, depending on the make and model.

 

High-performance

Designed for more demanding commercial use, these models are more powerful and typically have a wattage range between 3000W and 6000W, with a cavity that can be as compact as 0.50 cubic ft. to over one cubic ft. in size.

They generally cost between $9,000 and $20,000.

 

Max-performance

Max-performance speed ovens are ideal for commercial setups with high-volume needs where the oven is to be used daily for an extended period of time.

These are sturdy, powerful and capable of handling the quick demands of busy Australian food services.  

Featuring a wattage range typically above 5600W that can go up to 11000W, these models can have a cavity as large as two cubic ft. or more in size.

They generally come with a price tag of above $12000.    

 

 

To choose the best speed oven, first, understand your needs, like what you will be cooking and how much.

How much space do you have for the oven, and will you use it only for particular types of dishes or a wide range of cuisines?

These questions will help you better understand your needs and choose the right model. 

 

 

Other features to consider

Speed ovens are advanced cooking equipment designed to make commercial cooking simpler while saving space and time.

They typically come with a number of high-tech features for increased efficiency and streamlined operations.

Some of these features include the below options.

 

Programmable

Programmable rapid-cook ovens can store several recipes, making it possible to cook a wide range of dishes with the same consistency, even if you have a new chef on the job.

These devices can be programmed easily and quickly just by pressing a few buttons on the oven or over the Wi-fi. Some advanced models can store as many as 100 or more recipes that can be quickly updated for no hassle.  

     

Ventilation

In commercial kitchens, ventilation is a critical aspect.

Before you get any new equipment, it’s essential to confirm its ventilation specifications and if you’ll need a hood for it.

Some speed ovens, however, are ventless, meaning you don’t need any extra arrangement for ventilation, which not only saves space and money but also makes them ideal for front-of-house applications. 

 

Wi-fi connectivity

A simple yet highly effective feature that can take your cooking game to the next level.

Wi-fi connectivity allows you to program and update the recipes stored in the oven remotely.

Some models also provide self-diagnostic reports and notifications right on your connected device, allowing you to keep track of the device’s health and performance remotely.

These particular features are extremely helpful for businesses operating in multiple location.     

 

 

Speed oven cooking times

High-speed ovens can cook dishes 5 to 20 times faster than traditional ovens depending on the make and model.

Here’s a rough range of how quickly you can make certain dishes in a commercial speed oven.

 

• Pizza – 1 minute and 20 seconds to 3 minutes and 30 seconds
• Toasted sandwich – 40 seconds to 1 minute and 30 seconds
• French fries – Less than 2 minutes and 30 seconds
• Cookies and biscuits – 1 minute and 35 seconds to 6 minutes and 30 seconds
• Panini – Less than 30 seconds to 1 minute and 30 seconds
• Chicken breast – 3 minutes and 30 seconds to 4 minutes and 30 seconds
• Baked potato – 10 to 15 minutes
• Quesadilla – Around 1 minute

 

 

Best speed ovens 

Unox

Unox is an Italian company founded in 1990 and has since then grown into a global brand with a presence in over 100 countries.

The brand manufactures advanced professional ovens and bakery equipment that can efficiently meet the unique needs of the Australian food service industry.

Unox’s crown jewel is arguably their range of speed ovens.

Known for exceptional speed and efficiency, these ovens have carved out a reputation for reliability and high-quality output.

Unox ovens are expensive, but they are worth the price.

Two standout models within their portfolio are the Bakerlux SPEED.Pro™ and the SPEED-X™.

The SPEED.Pro™ combines the functionality of a convection oven and a speed oven, offering flexibility and speed for a minimum footprint.

The five-tray SPEED-X™ Digital.ID™ is the first-ever self-washing speed oven delivering excellent performance for no hassles.

 

MerryChef

Since its inception in 1950, MerryChef has set the pace for advanced kitchen appliances, solidifying its global reputation with over seven decades of innovation and dedication to quality.

The British-based company is particularly celebrated for pioneering the speed oven technology, bringing a new level of efficiency to commercial kitchens worldwide.

They have a full catalogue of compact yet powerful speed ovens with specifications to fit any fast-paced commercial setup efficiently.

Good quality parts, advanced features and reliable service make them a preferred choice of professional chefs.

MerryChef’s high-speed oven line has two different ranges – the already popular eikon series and the latest conneX. 

Their most popular model is the eikon e3, a compact device that lets you bake, cook, toast and grill in the same unit.

Plus, it has a robust design with a larger cooking area, accommodating multiple trays for higher volume output.

ConneX 12 is a popular choice for businesses looking for next-generation high-speed ovens.

This ‘always – connected’ device is claimed to deliver up to 80% faster cooking times than conventional ovens.

 

 

TurboChef

TurboChef is a leading manufacturer of speed ovens, renowned for their innovative technology and superior cooking performance.

The company, established in 1991, quickly gained recognition for revolutionising the culinary industry with their high-speed cooking solutions.

Energy-efficient, versatile and user-friendly, TurboChef speed ovens combine the most advanced technology to deliver all the benefits the latest innovations can offer.

They cook faster and provide consistent results without compromising on quality.    

Among TurboChef's most popular models, the ventless rapid cook oven i5 stands out for its versatility and maximum throughput, ideal for larger establishments with high-volume needs.

The TurboChef Bullet, another top choice, combines radiant heat, high-speed air impingement, and side-launched RF energy for revolutionary toasting and heating performance.

 

 

Menumaster

With a history spanning over 50 years, Accelerated Cooking Products (ACP), the maker of Menumaster, has established itself as a leading manufacturer of commercial cooking equipment, specializing in commercial ovens.

The company’s commitment to innovation and reliability has made them a trusted name in the food service industry.

Their speed ovens have become synonymous with speed, efficiency, and consistent cooking results. T

hey combine cutting-edge technology for maximum versatility, precision, and durability, catering to the demands of busy commercial kitchens across the globe.

Among their popular speed oven models Menumaster MOC5241 stand out.

It provides a larger capacity and cooks 42% faster than microwaves of similar power.

It features intuitive controls and programmable settings, making it user-friendly for kitchen staff.

XpressChef 4i speed oven from the same manufacturer, ACP is one of the most advanced speed oven models in the market. 

 

 

Woodson

Woodson is a Stoddart brand leading the Australian countertop kitchen and café equipment industry since 1954. Woodson speed ovens are known for functionality and reliability, designed to streamline operations in busy kitchens, offering rapid cooking times and precise temperature control.

These ovens are trusted by chefs and food service professionals for their ability to consistently deliver high-quality results. Plus, they come with a pocket-friendly price tag, ideal for new businesses.   

The most popular high-speed oven from Woodson is Pronto PO52. This compact and sleek, quick-performance oven not only brings efficiency to your kitchen but also adds a smart look. Featuring upper impingement heat and lower infra-red heat, the device can make meals in minutes.  

 

 

Used Commercial Speed Ovens — worth considering?

Spending thousands of dollars on a new commercial speed oven can put a strain on your budget and cash flow.

If you’d prefer not to invest a lot of money in a speed oven, a cheaper, pre-owned appliance might be the solution you’re looking for.

SilverChef’s range of ‘Certified Used’ commercial equipment is mostly ex-rental equipment sourced from businesses we know and trust.

The equipment is typically less than two-and-a-half years old, has been fully refurbished by us, and is backed by a three-month parts-and-labour warranty.

Considering the effective, or useful, life of a commercial speed oven is around 10 years, you can be sure our Certified Used commercial high speed ovens have plenty of life left in it.

You can either buy or finance the ‘Certified Used’ (and clearance) equipment on our website. (We’re one of the few financiers, if not the only one, in Australia that funds second-hand commercial kitchen equipment.)

Read more about ‘Certified Used’ equipment

 

 

Frequently asked questions

Are commercial speed ovens worth the price?

Commercial rapid cook ovens can indeed be worth the price, but it ultimately depends on the specific needs and circumstances of a business.

If you are looking for consistency, quality and high efficiency to manage demand spikes or planning menu expansion to grow your business, a commercial speed oven is just the companion you need.   

 

What are the disadvantages of a commercial speed oven?

While commercial speed ovens offer numerous advantages, they also come with a few potential disadvantages to consider.

They are comparatively pricier and might need some training and familiarity for your staff to get used to.

These ovens use advanced technology; hence maintenance and repairs can be more expensive.

However, none of the disadvantages can overshadow the speed, efficiency and flexibility they bring to any commercial kitchen.  

 

Are commercial speed ovens good for baking?

Commercial rapid cook ovens can be suitable for certain baking applications, particularly for recipes that benefit from rapid and consistent results.

However, for more intricate and precise baking needs, dedicated convection ovens designed specifically for baking may offer better control and optimal results.

 

 

Commercial speed oven glossary

Rapid cook technology

The advanced technology used in speed ovens which significantly reduce cooking times compared to traditional ovens.  

 

Microwave technology

Utilizes microwaves to generate heat by agitating water molecules present in food, promoting quick and efficient cooking.

 

Convection Heating

A cooking method that uses a fan and circulated hot air to evenly distribute heat throughout the oven cavity, resulting in faster and more consistent cooking.

 

Impingement

A cooking technique that uses forced hot air jets to rapidly cook and brown food, achieving a crispy exterior.

 

Programmable controls

Digital controls that allow users to set specific cooking parameters such as time, temperature, and cooking modes in the oven.

 

Multi-stage cooking

Multi-stage cooking enables users to program multiple cooking stages, including defrosting, cooking, and browning, in a single cooking process.

 

Pre-programmed recipes

Built-in recipes and cooking programs saved in the oven that automate the cooking process for specific dishes, ensuring consistent results.

 

Self-cleaning function

A special feature that utilizes steam or other cleaning methods to simplify and expedite the cleaning process of the oven cavity.

 

Energy-saving mode

This power-saving feature reduces energy consumption during idle periods, helping to minimize operating costs.

 

Automatic fan control

A feature that adjusts the oven's fan speed automatically based on the cooking requirements, ensuring optimal cooking conditions.

 

 

Keep your cash. Use ours!

We hope this guide has helped you better understand what you need to look for in a commercial speed oven and how to choose the right model for your needs. If you want to know more, you can always reach out to the SilverChef team.

Hospitality equipment can be expensive and paying for it outright can put pressure on your business’s cash flow.

Our finance solutions allow you to get the equipment you want now and to pay for it in small, regular amounts out of the revenue it generates for you.

Rent–Try–Buy® not only helps you maintain your cash flow, it gives you unrivalled flexibility to adapt your equipment to the changing needs of your business.

You can upgrade or buy the equipment at any time or, after 12 months, return or continue renting it.

If you decide to buy the equipment, we’ll give you back 75% of the net rent you paid in the first year and 25% of any rental payments thereafter — to put toward the purchase price.

Read more about Rent–Try–Buy.