What’s the Difference Between the Merrychef conneX® 12 and conneX® 12e?
What’s the Difference Between the Merrychef conneX® 12 and conneX® 12e?
If you’re in the market for a compact, high-speed oven, you’ve likely come across the Merrychef conneX® 12 and its more budget-friendly sibling, the conneX® 12e. Both models sit within Merrychef’s next-generation range — fast, ventless, and touchscreen-controlled — but there are key differences that could influence your decision.
So, what sets them apart?
Shared Strengths: conneX® 12 & 12e
Both ovens are designed to dramatically reduce cooking times while delivering consistent, high-quality results. Key features include:
- 12” cavity size – ideal for toasted sandwiches, breakfast items, pizzas, wraps, and more
- Ventless cooking – no need for extraction hoods
- Cool-to-touch exterior – suitable for front-of-house positioning
- 7” high-resolution touchscreen – with icon-driven menu navigation
- Wi-Fi, Ethernet & USB connectivity – compatible with Merrychef’s KitchenConnect®
- Tri-heat system – combining convection, microwave, and impingement for maximum efficiency
Key Differences: conneX® 12 vs. conneX® 12e
| Feature | conneX® 12 | conneX® 12e |
|---|---|---|
| Finish Options | Stainless Steel or Carbon Black (premium option) | Matt Black Powder-Coated |
| Power Options | 13A Plug, Single Phase 32A, or 3 Phase | 13A Plug Only |
| Speed & Performance | Faster recovery, higher output during peak periods | Slightly slower recovery – best for lighter service loads |
| Price Point | Premium – especially for Carbon Black finish | Budget-friendly |
| Ideal For | High-throughput cafés, fast casual dining, chains | Smaller cafés, kiosks, lower-volume setups |
Carbon Black: Both Models, Different Implications
While both ovens are available in a black finish, the Carbon Black version of the conneX® 12 is a premium design option — often chosen for its sleek, modern appearance in front-of-house settings. It comes at a higher price than the standard stainless steel version.
The conneX® 12e, by contrast, is only available in Matt Black, offering a more affordable alternative with a similar aesthetic.
Which One Should You Choose?
- Pick the conneX® 12 if you need maximum speed, configuration flexibility (multiple power options), and a choice of finish — including premium Carbon Black for design-led environments.
- Pick the conneX® 12e if you need a reliable, compact high-speed oven at a lower price point — perfect for light to moderate service volumes.
Need Help Deciding? We’re Here.
At Anglia Catering Equipment, we stock both models — along with a full range of Merrychef conneX® accessories, including panini presses, non-stick baskets, liners, and cooking paddles.
Call us on 01379 641223 for expert advice or browse the full range below:
- Merrychef conneX® 12 – Stainless Steel or Carbon Black
- Merrychef conneX® 12e – Matt Black
