Buying a combi oven:
complete buying guide for commercial kitchens 2026
A combi oven is an investment for 12 to 15 years. The wrong choice costs not just money – it limits your kitchen on capacity, energy costs and staff efficiency. This buying guide walks you through all the decisions that truly matter.
By JMGT Commercial Kitchen Equipment · Authorised Rational Dealer · 27 May 2026
The six main decisions
- Which brand (Rational vs. competitors)
- Which model and capacity
- Electric or gas
- New or used Rational
- Energy efficiency and running costs
- Installation and service partner
1. Which brand suits your kitchen?
Rational is the market leader. Reason: the strongest service network, the most advanced automation (iCookingSuite) and the highest consistency with changing staff. Competitors such as Convotherm, Unox and Lainox are legitimate options for specific scenarios, but less compelling overall for most kitchens.
2. Which model and capacity?
Standard sizes are 6-1/1, 10-1/1, 20-1/1 and 20-2/1. Which model fits depends on your covers per service, menu type and peak hours. Up to approx. 80 covers: 6-1/1. 80–200 covers: 10-1/1. 200+ covers: 20-1/1 or larger. During the free kitchen check we discuss this based on your actual menu volume and peak hours.
3. Electric or gas?
For most new installations, electric is the standard: more efficient in primary energy consumption, better controllability. Gas is only interesting for specific logistical constraints.
The underrated route
4. New or used Rational?
A used Rational (from year of manufacture 2018–2019) has comparable cooking performance and energy efficiency to a new iCombi Pro, at a significantly lower purchase price. For new businesses, butchers and seasonal hospitality, used is often the smartest route over five years.
5. Energy efficiency and running costs
Modern energy-efficient combi ovens noticeably reduce your running costs. Rational iCombi Pro and Classic are among the most efficient units in their class. We calculate the payback period specifically for your situation.
6. Installation and service: through whom?
A combi oven is not a plug-and-play appliance. JMGT handles installation by authorised technicians. Service and warranty run through Rational, with JMGT as your dedicated point of contact.
Frequently asked questions
What is a combi oven and when do I need one?
A combi oven combines hot air, steam and a combined mode in one unit. It replaces multiple kitchen appliances (oven, steamer, fryer alternative) and saves space, energy and labour. From around 50–80 covers per service, a professional combi oven is generally worthwhile.
Which combi oven brand is the best?
Rational is the market leader. Reason: the strongest service network, the most advanced automation (iCookingSuite) and the highest consistency with changing staff. Competitors such as Convotherm and Unox are solid options for specific scenarios, but less compelling overall for most kitchens. For a particularly low entry price: a used Rational from JMGT's stock is often cheaper than a new Convotherm and delivers better kitchen economics.
What size combi oven fits my kitchen?
Standard sizes are 6-1/1, 10-1/1, 20-1/1 and 20-2/1. General guideline: up to around 80 covers choose a 6-1/1, up to 200 covers a 10-1/1, and over 200 covers a 20-1/1 or larger. During the kitchen check we discuss this based on your actual menu volume and peak hours.
Electric or gas combi oven?
For most new installations, electric is the standard: more efficient in primary energy consumption, better controllability. Gas is only interesting for specific logistical constraints or existing infrastructure.
New combi oven or used unit?
New gives the longest manufacturer warranty and the latest features. A used Rational from year of manufacture 2018–2019 has comparable cooking performance and energy efficiency at a significantly lower purchase price. For new businesses, butchers and seasonal hospitality, used is often the smartest route.
What does JMGT handle when I purchase?
We handle the complete package: free kitchen check, advice for your situation, quote, delivery from stock (24–48 hours for new or used Rational), installation by authorised technicians, initial commissioning and cooking demonstration for your team. One point of contact: Jos Menting.
Next step
Book a free kitchen check. We will deliver a quote within 5 working days for both scenarios: new unit and used Rational at a lower entry price.
Sources
- Rational iCombi Pro and Classic – Rational AG