Tired of your kitchen feeling a little…limited? Imagine baking crispy cookies, roasting chicken, and reheating leftovers all in one sleek appliance. That’s the magic of a countertop microwave convection oven combo!
But let’s be honest, wading through all the different models can feel overwhelming. You want a machine that cooks evenly, offers useful features, and fits your budget. It’s a big decision, and finding the perfect one can be a real challenge.
That’s exactly why we’re here. In this post, we’ll break down what makes these versatile ovens so great and guide you through picking the best one for your kitchen. Get ready to discover how this one appliance can transform your cooking!
Our Top 5 Countertop Microwave Convection Oven Combo Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Countertop Microwave Convection Oven Combo Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.9/10
The TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, model ML2-EC10SA(BS) A, is a versatile kitchen appliance that does more than just reheat leftovers. This black stainless steel microwave offers a wide range of cooking options, from traditional microwaving to air frying, baking with convection, and broiling. Its smart features, like the position memory turntable and odor removal mode, make cooking and cleanup easier.
What We Like:
- Eight Cooking Functions: You can microwave, air fry, bake, broil, use combi modes, low temp cooking, odor removal, and defrost.
- Healthy Air Frying: Enjoy crispy fried foods with less oil.
- Powerful Performance: It has 1000 watts of microwave power for fast cooking.
- Spacious Interior: The 1.0 cu.ft capacity and 12.4-inch turntable fit a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- Convenient Features: Includes one-touch popcorn, easy knobs, a clock, timer, and a mute function.
- Safety First: A two-step child lock prevents accidental use.
- Stylish Design: The black stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- Learning Curve: With so many functions, it might take a little time to learn how to use all of them.
- External Size: While the capacity is good, the external dimensions are a bit larger than a standard microwave.
This TOSHIBA microwave is a great choice for those who want one appliance to do it all. It combines many cooking methods into one sleek unit.
2. Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.5/10
Tired of cluttered countertops? The Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven (ML-EC42P(BS)) is a game-changer for your kitchen. This sleek black stainless steel appliance does more than just reheat leftovers; it brings a whole new level of cooking to your home. It’s a microwave, an air fryer, a convection oven, and even a combination cooker, all rolled into one. Imagine crispy, healthy fried chicken or perfectly roasted vegetables without the mess and extra oil. This 1.5 cubic foot powerhouse makes cooking easier and more versatile.
What We Like:
- This oven is incredibly versatile with its 4-in-1 functions: microwave, air fry, convection, and combination cooking.
- Enjoy healthier meals with the air fryer feature, which cooks food with less fat but keeps the delicious taste.
- The convection cooking combined with microwave power means you can bake, defrost, and roast with amazing results.
- It has smart sensor menus that automatically adjust cooking times for popular foods like pizza and vegetables.
- The large 13.6-inch turntable easily fits a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza, perfect for family meals.
- Its black stainless steel finish looks great on any counter, and the stainless steel interior is easy to clean.
- Convenient features like one-touch popcorn, memory function, and a mute button add to its user-friendliness.
- The mute function is a lifesaver, letting you silence those annoying beeps.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it offers many features, some users might find the initial learning curve for the various cooking modes a bit steep.
- The external dimensions, while fitting a good capacity, might still be a consideration for very small kitchens.
This Toshiba Air Fryer Combo is an excellent addition to any modern kitchen, offering convenience and healthy cooking options. It’s a smart investment for families looking to simplify their cooking routine.
3. BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry
Rating: 8.8/10
Meet the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven, a versatile kitchen helper that can do it all! This countertop appliance isn’t just a microwave; it’s also an air fryer, a combi oven (grill/convection), a baker, and a roaster. With its sleek stainless steel finish and compact 0.9 cu. ft. size, it fits perfectly on any counter. It packs a powerful 900 watts for speedy cooking and includes helpful features like a child lock.
What We Like:
- It’s a 5-in-1 appliance, so you can microwave, air fry, grill, bake, and roast all in one machine.
- It has 10 different cooking levels and 7 auto menus for easy cooking of common foods like popcorn and pizza.
- The air fryer function is great, with 11 preset menus for popular items like fries and chicken wings.
- Cooking is fast, with a simple button press to start at full power for 30-second intervals.
- The child-lock feature is a smart addition to keep little ones safe.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity might be a bit small for larger families or big meals.
- While it has many functions, mastering all of them might take some practice.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a fantastic addition for anyone looking to save space and cook a variety of meals with just one appliance.
4. GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.9/10
Meet the GE GCST10A1WSS, a 4-in-1 microwave oven that’s a game-changer for your kitchen, dorm room, or office. This stainless steel powerhouse packs a 1,050-watt punch and offers much more than just reheating leftovers. It’s an air fryer, a broiler, and a convection oven all rolled into one compact 1.0 cubic foot appliance. Plus, it includes a handy child-lock feature for added safety.
What We Like:
- Versatile Cooking: It air fries for crispy, healthier snacks, broils to perfection for that grilled effect, and uses convection for evenly cooked, golden results.
- User-Friendly Presets: Simple controls like “Fries” and “Nuggets” make cooking your favorite foods a breeze.
- Safety First: The two-step child lock prevents accidental use, giving you peace of mind.
- Space-Saving Design: Its compact size fits easily on countertops in dorm rooms, offices, or kitchens without taking up too much space.
- Even Cooking: The glass turntable rotates food, ensuring everything is cooked evenly.
What Could Be Improved:
- Learning Curve: While presets are helpful, mastering all four functions might take a little practice.
- Capacity: For larger families or big meals, the 1.0 cubic foot capacity might feel a bit small.
The GE GCST10A1WSS truly simplifies cooking with its multiple functions and smart features. This microwave is an excellent addition for anyone seeking convenience and versatility in a compact appliance.
5. Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave
Rating: 9.4/10
The Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1 is a kitchen powerhouse. It’s a microwave, an air fryer, and a convection oven all in one. This appliance makes cooking easier and more fun. You can make crispy fries, bake delicious brownies, or defrost soup quickly. It’s designed to be smart and efficient.
What We Like:
- It’s a 3-in-1 appliance, saving counter space.
- The Element IQ System cooks food evenly.
- Fast Combi and Cook From Frozen features save time.
- The Power Smoothing Inverter provides consistent power.
- Smart Cook, Reheat, and Defrost presets are very helpful.
- It has a quiet operation with a soft-close door.
- Shortcut panels make common tasks simple.
- It comes with useful accessories like the Combi Crisp Pan.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 1-year limited warranty could be longer.
This Breville Combi Wave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It offers great versatility and convenience for everyday cooking needs.
Your Guide to the Best Countertop Microwave Convection Oven Combo
Tired of juggling multiple kitchen appliances? A countertop microwave convection oven combo can be your new best friend. It’s a microwave, a regular oven, and a convection oven all rolled into one compact package. This means you can reheat leftovers, bake cookies, and roast chicken, all from a single appliance. Let’s find the perfect one for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep these important features in mind:
- Wattage: This tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Look for at least 1000 watts for good performance.
- Capacity: How much food can it hold? Check the cubic feet. A larger capacity is better for families or when you cook bigger meals.
- Convection Settings: Does it have a fan that circulates hot air? This is key for baking and roasting. Look for different temperature settings and fan speeds.
- Pre-programmed Settings: Many combos have buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or baked potatoes. These make cooking easier.
- Turntable: A rotating plate ensures food cooks evenly. Make sure it’s removable for cleaning.
- Easy-to-Clean Interior: Non-stick surfaces or stainless steel interiors are easier to wipe down after use.
- Safety Features: Look for child lock features and automatic shut-off.
Important Materials
The materials used in a microwave convection oven combo affect its durability and how well it cooks.
- Stainless Steel Interior: This is a great choice. It’s durable, easy to clean, and can handle high heat well. It also looks sleek.
- Porcelain Enamel Interior: This is another good option. It’s easy to clean and resists scratches.
- Glass Turntable: This is standard. It needs to be heat-resistant.
- Exterior Casing: Most are made of stainless steel or coated metal. Stainless steel is more durable and resists fingerprints.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a combo oven better, while others can make it less ideal.
- Build Quality: A sturdy appliance feels solid. If it feels flimsy, it might not last long. Check for good door seals. A tight seal helps trap heat.
- Even Cooking: Does it cook food evenly in both microwave and convection modes? Read reviews to see what other users say.
- User Interface: Is the control panel easy to understand and use? Simple buttons and a clear display are best.
- Noise Level: Some ovens can be quite loud. Quieter models are more pleasant to use.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often have better quality control and customer service.
User Experience and Use Cases
These versatile appliances are great for many things!
- Quick Meals: Use the microwave function to reheat leftovers or cook frozen meals in a flash.
- Baking and Roasting: The convection feature turns your microwave into a mini oven. You can bake cookies, roast vegetables, or even cook a small chicken.
- Toast and Broil: Some models have a broil function, which is perfect for browning the tops of casseroles or making toast.
- Space Saving: If you have a small kitchen, this combo replaces your microwave and a small oven. It frees up counter space.
- Dorm Rooms and Small Apartments: These are perfect for students or anyone living in a small space who wants more cooking options than just a microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main difference between a microwave and a convection oven?
A: A microwave uses radiation to heat food quickly. A convection oven uses a fan to circulate hot air, which cooks food more evenly and gives it a browned, crispy texture, just like a regular oven.
Q: Can I bake in a microwave convection oven combo?
A: Yes! That’s one of the main benefits. The convection feature allows you to bake, roast, and broil.
Q: How do I clean the interior of my combo oven?
A: Most interiors can be wiped down with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tougher messes, use a baking soda paste. Always unplug the oven before cleaning.
Q: Is a convection oven healthier than a microwave?
A: Neither is inherently healthier. The convection oven cooks with dry heat, which can make food crispier. The microwave heats food using radiation. Both are safe ways to cook food.
Q: How much counter space does a countertop microwave convection oven combo take up?
A: They vary in size, but they are designed to sit on your counter. Check the dimensions before buying to make sure it fits your space.
Q: Are they energy efficient?
A: Generally, they use less energy than a full-sized oven for smaller tasks. Using the microwave function is usually the most energy-efficient.
Q: What foods are best cooked in a convection oven setting?
A: Foods that benefit from browning and crisping, like roasted chicken, vegetables, cookies, cakes, and pizza, cook wonderfully in convection mode.
Q: Can I use metal in a convection oven?
A: Yes, you can use metal bakeware like baking sheets and oven-safe pans in the convection mode. However, never use metal in microwave-only mode.
Q: What is the typical wattage for these appliances?
A: Microwave wattage typically ranges from 900 to 1200 watts, while convection oven temperatures can go up to 400-450°F.
Q: Do I need to preheat the convection oven?
A: Yes, just like a regular oven, you should preheat the convection oven to the desired temperature before cooking for the best results.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!