When it comes to speed and versatility, high-speed ovens not only save space, but they are also convenient, affordable and easy to use.

High-speed ovens, also called rapid-cook ovens, have become popular in quick-service operations where anytime meals and convenience-style foods are often prepared across multiple dayparts. These units can also complement an existing kitchen to help with speed of service on items that take a prohibitively long time to cook.

This cooking technology supports a variety of applications but is often designated for heat-and-serve functions on the front counter. In addition, operators can use these ovens to finish or reheat dishes already produced, such as hot sandwiches or mac and cheese. Items that take more time to cook, such as quiche, can be prepared quicker with the help of these ovens. Although the units have the ability to cook raw proteins, such as meat or chicken, it is not that common in commercial applications.

These ovens cook rapidly to accommodate applications that would otherwise not be able to cook as efficiently, economically or to high-quality standards. With these ovens, there is no need to install a full-size kitchen to cook food.

Using two or more heat transfer methods, high-speed ovens can reduce cooking times by more than half. The equipment accomplishes this by combining cooking technologies, such as microwave, convection, impingement or radiant heating. Although units in this category don’t always include a microwave component, the majority utilize this technology for rapid heating along with browning.

Oven speed varies, depending on the heating technology. For example, units that combine microwave, forced convection and infrared radiant heat offer cook times that can be as much as 15 times faster than a conventional oven. With compact microwave/convection oven models, cook times can be up to 4 times faster than conventional ovens.

The majority of high-speed ovens are preprogrammed, so food that goes in at a fairly consistent state and start temperature will be guaranteed to cook fully with consistent results.

The small footprint of this countertop equipment offers powerful, versatile operation that maximizes smaller footprints. Also, because most high-speed ovens are designed to be stacked, space, capacity and volume are further maximized. Its many uses and versatility enable operators to expand menus more easily as well.

In terms of construction, most of these ovens use stainless steel on the interior and exterior, with ceramic plates inside. For front-of-house use or improved aesthetics, operators can choose from various exterior colors, depending on the model. Units also may include sturdy chrome-plated adjustable legs and handles that are ergonomic for safe, comfortable use.

With depths between 20 and 30 inches, high-speed ovens are suitable for countertop use or in smaller spaces. Capacities vary, with units accommodating ¼- to ½-size sheet pans, full-size hotel pans, and 12- or 14-inch pizzas.

Generally electric, high-speed ovens require at least 30 amps and either 208 or 240 watts of power. Microwave wattage ranges from 1000 to 2000, depending on the unit. Temperature ranges vary, depending on the type of oven, but are typically between 150 degrees F and 550 degrees F.

In addition to ventless operation, another benefit of high-speed ovens is their ease of use. These units provide multiple set point temperatures, with some models offering automatic programming for hundreds of menu items. The oven’s data keys allow for the electronic transfer of cooking programs, which can save time and ensure product consistency. Rather than push-button interfaces, many models feature resistive or capacitive touch-screen controls that are more user-friendly and intuitive.

Further simplifying use, Wi-Fi-enabled high-speed ovens can be connected to the internet for uploading recipes. This allows operators to leverage technology by sending menu updates to equipment in multiple locations and expand on limited-time offers more easily.

Some high-speed ovens include door windows for users to view the cooking process as it’s taking place. With an auto unloading feature, food is presented to operators upon its completion.

In addition to these options, there also are a number of high-speed oven accessories, including Teflon pans, sheet metal pans, baskets and pizza screens.