Sous Vide Combination Steam Oven: Temperature & Time Guide
Combi ovens (steam ovens) can also hold 140°F with steam, making them a 'sous vide without bags' alternative. They cost 10-20x a circulator but add baking, roasting, and browning in one appliance.
Our top pick
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
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Quick comparison
| Pick | Why we like it | |
|---|---|---|
| Anova Precision Cooker 3.0 | A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking. | View → |
| Instant-read meat thermometer | Use one to verify your water bath and spot-check the finish — a $15 probe removes all guesswork. | View → |
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
Editor’s PickA circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
- + On-device temperature control
- + 1100W heats fast
- + Recipe library for temps
- − Premium price
- − Some app features paywalled
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Use one to verify your water bath and spot-check the finish — a $15 probe removes all guesswork.
- + Verifies actual temperature
- + Cheap insurance
- − Not needed if your circulator is accurate
Free shipping on eligible items
Buying advice
Circulator for: precision on a budget, bags with aromatics, and portability. Combi oven for: the same precision plus browning and baking — if you already own one or bake a lot. For most home cooks, the circulator is the value pick.
FAQ
Is a combi oven better than sous vide?
It can do everything sous vide does plus bake and roast — but costs far more. The circulator wins on value.
Can I brown in a combi oven?
Yes — that's its advantage: steam-cook at low temp, then switch to dry heat to brown in the same box.
Do I still need bags with a combi oven?
No — that's the other advantage: no vacuum bags, just steam.
Ready to cook perfectly?
Our top pick for this guide — check today’s price and clip any on-page coupon on Amazon:
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Want exact temps and times? Use our free sous vide calculators.