A favorite product of ours for its versatility and performance, the Dacor DCM24 convection microwave oven is not only a great addition to the kitchen, it's a particularly good value in this category.

The best part of this model is that you can use it as a microwave or an oven, or best of all as both at the same time. Cooking with both methods is called combination cooking. The convection-microwave feature uses both oven and microwave functions together to speed cooking. Cooking in combination mode shortens baking times while browning and crisping as effectively as any traditional oven. Use combination mode for roasting and baking chicken, breads, meats and cakes. Expect a time saving of about 1/3 of normal cooking time with Dacor's DCM24.

We like that the DCM24 comes with racks. Use the high rack with small pans or round pizza pans for two-level baking. Use the short rack to drain fat while roasting meats or broiling burgers.

Since you're likely to be using this oven for messier-than-usual tasks, don't be surprised when some extra cleanup is required. Meats, chickens and burgers are prone to spraying grease on the inside walls of the oven, so keep some window cleaner on hand to help keep the mess under control.

The DCM24 is equipped with automated programs and a sensor that make it easy to use for a variety of microwave, heat and combination tasks. Anything you can do in your old microwave oven you can accomplish in this Dacor unit, plus a variety of tasks you could formerly do only in your regular oven.

Available with a variety of trim kits, this model is most often used in a built-in installation, often over a wall oven. Two different styles of trim kits are sold for this model. Options work with 27-, 30- and 36-inch wall ovens and match the other Dacor brand appliances. Color choices include black, white or stainless steel.

When we compared the Dacor DCM24 to many other built-in microwave-combination models, we were surprised to find that the DCM24 offered more options and was often easier to use. Especially surprising was that many far more expensive units were often less versatile or user friendly. We usually find the adage, you get what you pay for to be true -- but that does not seem to be the case in the convection-microwave category. There are outstanding values to be found in this category and Dacor's DCM24 is one fine example.


Pros: Bakes and broils as well ad microwaves, offers combination cooking, two-level baking, trim kits come in 27, 30 and 36 inches
Cons: Roasting and boiling in this model require cleaning beyond the usual microwave oven wipe out, lacks exposed element for best broiling

Warranty
1 year