Looking to replace your Merrychef E2S? In this guide, we compare the best modern alternatives including the Merrychef Connex12, Connex12e and other brands to help you choose the right replacement for your kitchen.
What is the Best Replacement for a Merrychef E2S?
The Merrychef E2S has been one of the most popular high speed ovens in the UK for many years. Found everywhere from coffee shops and cafés to convenience stores and universities, it became a trusted choice thanks to its compact footprint, fast cooking performance and ease of use.
However, many E2S ovens are now reaching an age where operators are starting to consider an upgrade. Merrychef actually stopped making the E2S 3 years ago yet it is still one of the most searched for ovens
Whether you’re experiencing increasing maintenance costs, looking for newer technology or simply planning ahead, this guide looks at the best replacements for the Merrychef E2S in 2026.
Why Replace a Merrychef E2S?
While many E2S ovens continue to perform well, there are several reasons businesses choose to upgrade:
- Increasing repair and maintenance costs
- Older touchscreen technology
- Limited connectivity and menu management
- Improved energy efficiency on newer models
- Manufacturer support and parts availability
For many operators, replacing an ageing E2S before a major breakdown can reduce downtime and improve kitchen productivity
What Made the Merrychef E2S So Popular?
Before looking at replacements, it’s worth understanding why the E2S became such a successful oven.
The E2S offered:
- Fast cook times
- Compact footprint
- Ventless operation
- Simple controls
- Reliable performance
These qualities remain important today, which is why the best replacement should offer the same benefits while adding modern functionality.
Best Merrychef E2S Replacement Options
1. Merrychef Connex12
Best Overall Replacement
For most operators, the Merrychef Connex 12 is the natural successor to the E2S.
The Connex12 retains the compact design that made the E2S popular while introducing a modern touchscreen interface, Wi-Fi connectivity and simplified menu management.
Advantages Over the E2S
- Larger 12-inch touchscreen
- Wi-Fi and cloud connectivity
- Easier menu updates
- Modern user interface
- Improved operator experience
Ideal For
- Cafés
- Coffee shops
- Convenience stores
- Universities
- Grab-and-go food outlets
Our Verdict: For most businesses currently using an E2S, the Connex 12 would be our first recommendation.
2. Merrychef Connex 12e
Best Value Replacement
The Connex 12e offers:
- 12” x 12” cavity
- 7” HD touchscreen
- WiFi / KitchenConnect connectivity
- Ventless operation
- 13A plug connection
- Entry-level price point
This makes it particularly attractive for:
- Smaller cafés
- Coffee shops
- Farm shops
- Convenience stores
- Operators moving into hot food for the first time
3. Panasonic SCV3
Best Compact Alternative to Merrychef
The Panasonic SCV3 offers:
Pros
- Excellent value – £1000 cheaper than the Connex 12 yet has equal power levels
- Excellent App that is both Apple and Android compatible
- Stackable design
- Best in class on site training (Merrychef no longer offer on site training, although if you’re within 100 miles of Yorkshire you can ask us…)
- Strong performance for sandwiches, paninis and bakery items
Cons
- Smaller installed base than Merrychef
- Less widespread menu library
Best For
- Independent cafés
- Farm shops
- Garden centres
- Convenience stores
4. Prática Fit Express
Best Budget-Friendly Alternative
The Prática Fit Express offers many of the benefits of a high speed oven while remaining one of the most accessible options for operators introducing hot food for the first time.
Pros
- Competitive purchase cost
- Easy installation (13A)
- Compact footprint
- Simple operation
- On-site training
Cons
- Less brand recognition in the UK
- Largely untested service support
5. UNOX SPEED.Compact ECO
Best for out of the box plug and play
Pros:
- Plug and play installation
- No extraction required
- WiFi connectivity
- 384 programmable cooking programmes
- Energy-saving functions
- Very compact footprint (424mm wide)
- Extremely quiet operation
Cons:
- No on site training
Our Recommendation
Choose the Connex12 if…
You want the closest modern equivalent to your E2S.
Choose the Connex12e if…
You want an affordable Merrychef upgrade.
Choose the Panasonic SCV3 if…
You want a compact alternative to Merrychef.
Choose the UNOX SPEED.Compact ECO if…
Ease of use and simplicity are your priorities.
Choose the Prática Fit Express if…
You want to maximise value for money.
Choose the Merrychef e3 if…
Your menu is heavily focused on pastries, bakery products and all-day café service.