20521 Infrared Convection Countertop Oven
#24
NuWave

NuWave 20521 Infrared Convection Countertop Oven

Rating

Model: 20521
$109(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-08-25
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Product Overview

The NuWave 20521 Infrared Convection Countertop Oven is designed for fast and easy cooking. It utilizes a triple power combo of infrared, conduction, and convection to cook food quickly and evenly, even straight from frozen. The oven features knob controls and a dropdown door. It aims to provide a convenient cooking solution for busy weeknight meals and larger gatherings. The NuWave oven cooks with little or no oil, promoting healthier meals. Included components are a power head, dome, cooking rack, liner pan, base tray, and oven manual.

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Product Specifications

Oven Capacity
-L
Power Consumption
-W
Temperature Range
-°C
Number of Shelves
-
Dimensions (W x H x D)
-mm
Weight
-kg
Control Type
Knob
Convection Type
Infrared Convection
Preheat Function
-
Timer Function
-

Size & Weight

Weight
12.72 pounds
Hight
13.5 inches
Width
15.5 inches
Depth
15.5 inches

Features

Preheat Function

This model does not appear to have a dedicated preheat function. You may need to manually heat the oven before cooking, which can add to the overall cooking time. Without a preheat function, achieving consistent results may require some experimentation.

Rotisserie Function

This model does not have a rotisserie function. If you require the ability to evenly cook whole chickens or roasts using a rotating spit, consider other models. The absence of this function limits the oven's versatility for certain types of cooking.

Dehydrate Function

This model does not include a dehydrate function. For drying fruits, vegetables, or making jerky, you will need a separate dehydrator appliance. This function is useful to extend food shelf life, but is not available on this oven.

Steam Function

This oven lacks a steam function. To achieve moist and tender results, you may need to use alternative methods such as adding a water bath during baking. This is not optimal for bread baking without modification, and limits the types of dishes you can prepare.

Convection Bake Function

The convection bake function utilizes a fan to circulate hot air, ensuring more even and efficient cooking compared to traditional baking. This feature is ideal for baking cookies, pastries, and other baked goods, resulting in more uniformly browned and delicious treats. The infrared element also contributes to even cooking.

Temperature Probe Function

This model does not have a temperature probe function. To monitor the internal temperature of meats and poultry, you will need to use a separate meat thermometer. This is helpful for ensuring food safety during cooking, especially for larger cuts of meat, but is not included.

SHOPSTAFF Rating Score

#24
Ranked #24 out of 49 products in Category
3.6
Overall Rating

The NuWave 20521 offers a convenient and relatively affordable option for countertop cooking. Its triple power combo aims for fast cooking, but temperature control and evenness may not match higher-end models. It's best suited for simple meals and reheating, with a focus on ease of use over precision. Durability may be a concern given the plastic construction.

Oven Capacity and Dimensions
3.5
The oven's capacity is suitable for smaller meals and countertop use. Its dimensions make it easy to fit in most kitchens, but it may not accommodate larger items like a whole chicken. Consider the interior height if you plan to cook taller dishes.
Convection Technology and Features
4.0
The infrared convection technology aims to cook food faster and more evenly than traditional ovens. While it may not be 'true convection,' it still provides enhanced cooking performance compared to standard heating elements. Expect quicker cooking times and more uniform results.
Temperature Range and Control
3.0
The knob controls offer a basic level of temperature adjustment. However, they lack the precision of digital controls, making it harder to set exact temperatures. This can impact the consistency of baking and other temperature-sensitive dishes.
Cooking Functions and Presets
3.5
The oven provides basic cooking functions like baking and grilling. The 'triple power combo' aims to enhance these functions, but there are no specific preset programs for common dishes. This means you'll need to rely on your own experience and recipes.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
4.0
The knob controls are simple and intuitive to use. The dropdown door provides easy access to the interior. Cleaning may be more challenging due to the lack of a non-stick interior or removable crumb tray. Regular maintenance is recommended.
Material Quality and Durability
3.0
The plastic construction raises concerns about long-term durability. While the oven may be lightweight and easy to move, it may not withstand heavy use or high temperatures as well as stainless steel models. Handle with care to prolong its lifespan.
Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
3.5
NuWave has a moderate reputation for reliability. Customer reviews suggest that the oven performs well for basic cooking tasks. However, the warranty may be limited, so be sure to check the terms and conditions before purchasing.
Cost Performance
4.5
At its price point, the NuWave 20521 offers good value for money. Its fast cooking and ease of use make it a practical choice for budget-conscious consumers. However, be aware of its limitations in terms of temperature control and durability.

Brand & Manufacturer Details

NuWave
NuWave offers small kitchen appliances focused on health and convenience, utilizing innovative cooking technologies for easy meal preparation.

Key Highlights

  • Affordable price point.
  • Fast cooking with triple power combo.
  • Cooks from frozen.
  • Relatively compact size.

Considerations

  • Plastic construction may limit durability.
  • Knob controls offer less precision than digital.
  • Ensure proper ventilation during use.
  • Avoid overcrowding the oven for even cooking.

Recommended For

  • Individuals seeking a simple and affordable countertop oven.
  • Those who need to cook meals quickly.
  • People with limited kitchen space.
  • Users who prioritize ease of use over advanced features.

Not Recommended For

  • Those requiring precise temperature control for baking.
  • Users needing a large oven capacity.
  • Those seeking commercial-grade durability.
  • none in particular

Suitable For

  • Cooking frozen meals.
  • Reheating leftovers.
  • Baking small batches of cookies.
  • Roasting small portions of vegetables.

Not Suitable For

  • Baking delicate pastries.
  • Cooking for large gatherings.
  • High-volume commercial use.
  • none in particular

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q.Can I cook frozen food directly in this oven?
A.Yes, you can cook food straight from frozen, which is great for busy weeknight meals.
Q.Is the NuWave oven suitable for cooking large meals?
A.Yes, the oven is designed to cook mega meals, making it suitable for parties or holiday dinners.
Q.Does this oven require a lot of preparation before cooking?
A.No, this oven allows you to cook without too much prep, reducing the time spent in the kitchen.
Q.What kind of cooking technology does this oven use?
A.This oven uses a triple power combo of infrared, conduction, and convection for cooking.
Q.Can I cook healthily with this oven?
A.Yes, you can cook with little to no oil and still get delicious results, promoting healthy eating.
Q.Is the temperature adjustable on this model?
A.Staff confirmation indicates that this model has added features for temperature control.
Q.Is the tray stainless steel?
A.Staff confirmation mentions a new stainless steel tray, which is perfect for cooking fast meals.
Q.Is this oven easy to use?
A.Staff confirmation indicates that it is a great and very handy oven.
Q.Can this oven replace a regular stovetop?
A.Staff confirmation suggests that some users cook more on this oven than on their stovetop.

SHOPSTAFF Rating Ranking

#1

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Livenza EO241250M Convection Toaster Oven

$149(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-08-25

The De'Longhi Livenza offers true convection, eight preset programs, and a non-stick interior for easy cleanup.

Oven Capacity24 LPower Consumption1800 W
Temperature Range- °CNumber of Shelves1
Dimensions (W x H x D)- mmWeight11.3 kg
Control TypeDigitalConvection TypeTrue Convection
Preheat Function-Timer FunctionYes
Preheat FunctionRotisserie FunctionDehydrate FunctionSteam FunctionConvection Bake FunctionTemperature Probe Function
4.6Overall Rating
4.3Oven Capacity and Dimensions
4.8Convection Technology and Features
4.5Temperature Range and Control
4.6Cooking Functions and Presets
4.7Ease of Use and Cleaning
4.6Material Quality and Durability
4.5Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.7Cost Performance
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The Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven offers versatile cooking with air frying, baking, and grilling functions.

Oven Capacity- LPower Consumption1800 W
Temperature Range- °CNumber of Shelves-
Dimensions (W x H x D)- mmWeight- kg
Control TypeDial selectorConvection Type-
Preheat Function-Timer FunctionYes
Preheat FunctionRotisserie FunctionDehydrate FunctionSteam FunctionConvection Bake FunctionTemperature Probe Function
4.3Overall Rating
4.0Oven Capacity and Dimensions
4.3Convection Technology and Features
4.2Temperature Range and Control
4.5Cooking Functions and Presets
4.3Ease of Use and Cleaning
4.4Material Quality and Durability
4.5Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.0Cost Performance
#3

The Ninja DCT451 is a double oven with FlexDoor, thermometer, FlavorSeal, Smart Finish, and Rapid Top Convection.

Oven Capacity12 LPower Consumption1800 W
Temperature Range- °CNumber of Shelves2
Dimensions (W x H x D)- mmWeight14.06 kg
Control TypeKnobConvection Type-
Preheat Function-Timer FunctionYes
Preheat FunctionRotisserie FunctionDehydrate FunctionSteam FunctionConvection Bake FunctionTemperature Probe Function
4.2Overall Rating
4.0Oven Capacity and Dimensions
4.3Convection Technology and Features
4.0Temperature Range and Control
4.5Cooking Functions and Presets
4.0Ease of Use and Cleaning
4.3Material Quality and Durability
4.5Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.3Cost Performance
#4

Oster

Air Fryer Oven 10-in-1 Countertop Toaster 2142008

$379(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-08-25

The Oster 10-in-1 Air Fryer Oven offers versatile cooking with its large capacity and multiple functions.

Oven Capacity42 LPower Consumption1700 W
Temperature Range - °CNumber of Shelves3
Dimensions (W x H x D) - mmWeight12.3 kg
Control TypeTouch ControlConvection Type -
Preheat FunctionYesTimer FunctionYes
Preheat FunctionRotisserie FunctionDehydrate FunctionSteam FunctionConvection Bake FunctionTemperature Probe Function
4.2Overall Rating
4.5Oven Capacity and Dimensions
4.0Convection Technology and Features
4.2Temperature Range and Control
4.5Cooking Functions and Presets
4.3Ease of Use and Cleaning
4.0Material Quality and Durability
4.0Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.3Cost Performance
#5

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$199(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-08-25

The Calphalon Air Fryer Oven offers 12 preset functions, cool touch exterior, and a large capacity for versatile cooking.

Oven Capacity25 LPower Consumption1400 W
Temperature Range - °CNumber of Shelves -
Dimensions (W x H x D) - mmWeight14.58 kg
Control TypeTouch ControlConvection TypeTurbo Convection
Preheat FunctionYesTimer FunctionYes
Preheat FunctionRotisserie FunctionDehydrate FunctionSteam FunctionConvection Bake FunctionTemperature Probe Function
4.2Overall Rating
4.0Oven Capacity and Dimensions
4.5Convection Technology and Features
4.0Temperature Range and Control
4.5Cooking Functions and Presets
4.3Ease of Use and Cleaning
4.0Material Quality and Durability
4.0Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.0Cost Performance