How We Test Wall Ovens
We test electric wall ovens in single- and double-oven configurations using a combination of food and precise temperature measurements. To start, we wire each oven cavity with thermocouplesāwire thermometers capable of withstanding high temperaturesāto see how evenly the oven heats from one spot to another.
Next we bake multiple trays of sugar cookies and cakes on different racks, looking to see which models produce evenly browned baked goods and which leave these items raw or burned. In a typical year, we bake more than 2,000 cookies and more than 400 cakes in the course of oven testing. Then we run a pan of burger patties under each broiler to see how evenly the broiler heats, and whether it gets hot enough to sear.
We assess features and rack positions, and measure the usable area inside each oven. Last, to test the self-clean cycle, we paint the inside of each oven with a disgusting mixture that includes egg, tapioca, cheese, and pie filling and bake the mixture into place before running the cycle, seeing which ovens come clean and which leave you stuck scrubbing. For the latest test results, see ourĀ wall oven ratings.Ā
What You Need to Know
Available wall oven widths are 24, 27, 30, and 36 inches. The most common are 30 inches wide, so thatās what we test. If youāre replacing a wall oven, itās crucial that you measure the wall oven and the cabinet cutout before you shop.
Fuel
Electric wall ovens are overwhelmingly the most popular type. In our tests of ovens in ranges, we find that electrics tend to perform better, particularly at broiling.Ā
Capacity
Many manufacturers make misleading claims about oven capacityātypically, they include every square inch of space, even if thereās no way to use it to cook (like the area below the bottom rack).Ā We look for usable capacity, and find big differences between models. For single-oven wall ovens, the smallest models in our test offer about 2 cubic feet of usable space, and the largest models (those that weād rate as Excellent for capacity) have more than 3 cubic feet of usable space. It might not matter much for a tray of cookies, but youāll be glad you have the clearance when youāre finessing a giant turkey into the oven next Thanksgiving.Ā
Configuration
Wall ovens come in single- and double-oven configurations, and we test both. A double oven lets you cook more, and allows you to cook foods at two different temperatures, which is particularly helpful around busy cooking holidays. A double wall oven is a lot bigger than the double oven you might find built into a range (which is really just a single oven divided into two cavities). For a true double wall oven, both cavities are the same size.Ā
Wall Oven Types
Most sold are 30-inch-wide electric models, and thatās what we test. They come with a single oven or double ovens. With a model in mind, check the manufacturerās online manual to find exact cutout dimensions for the wall oven.
Single Wall Oven
Single wall ovens are usually smaller than the ovens youād find on a rangeāthe single wall ovens we test range in usable capacity from 2 to 3 cubic feet, and those in ranges are usually between 3 and 4 cubic feet.Ā
Make sure that the controls are easy to see and reach, and that the door is at a height that prevents unnecessary bending.Ā
More than 95 percent of all models available are electric; that type generally performs better in our tests of oven ranges.Ā
Double Wall Oven
Double wall ovens offer double the capacity of a single wall oven, and they share a single control panel. They allow you to bake, roast, or broil at two different temperatures at the same time.Ā
As with a single-oven model, a double wall oven should be installed at a height that allows for easy accessāthe upper oven should be reachable and the lower oven shouldnāt require any more bending than needed.Ā
In addition to a true double oven, like the one shown above, some manufacturers offer a single wall oven with a steam oven or a microwave built in above the oven. Consumer Reports does not currently test those models.Ā
Wall Oven Features
The more features on a wall oven, the higher the price. However, some of these features boost safety and convenience.Ā
Air Fry
This oven function lets you cook crispy foods like French fries without buying a countertop air fryer. Some ovens include a perforated tray for air frying, which allows hot air to circulate while you cook. Some manufacturers sell this tray separately. Ā
PHOTO: GE
Control Lockout
This lets you disable the oven controls and is recommended for households with children.
PHOTO: KITCHENAID
WiFi Connected
Most WiFi-connected ovens work with an app on your smartphone. The app will let you check the oven temperature, set a timer, or even check the internal temperature of whatever youāre cooking, if your oven comes with a temperature probe. You can also use the app to make sure you remembered to turn off the oven, even if youāve left the house.
PHOTO: WHIRLPOOL
Side-Swing and French Doors
The first is a single door with hinges on one side. French-door models (shown) have two doors that separate in the middle and open outward. Both types prevent you from having to reach over an open door to retrieve that 30-pound turkey.
PHOTO: GE
Convection
Many midpriced and higher-priced wall ovens have one or more convection fans that circulate hot air, which can reduce cooking time for some foods.
Variable Broil
Most electric and some gas ovens have it. This feature offers adjustable settings for broiled foods that need slower or faster cooking, instead of only āonā (typically 500Ā° F) and āoff.ā
PHOTO: KENMORE
Air Fry
This oven function lets you cook crispy foods like French fries without buying a countertop air fryer. Some ovens include a perforated tray for air frying, which allows hot air to circulate while you cook. Some manufacturers sell this tray separately. Ā
PHOTO: GE
Wall Oven Brands
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