Imagine a kitchen where you can quickly reheat leftovers, bake a perfect cake, and roast a chicken, all with one appliance. Sounds like a dream, right? That dream can be a reality with a microwave and convection oven. But with so many choices out there, picking the right one can feel like a puzzle. Do you need more microwave power, or is a bigger convection oven your priority? It’s easy to get confused!
Choosing the perfect appliance for your kitchen is a big decision. You want something that cooks food fast, makes your meals taste great, and fits your budget. This guide is here to help you sort through all the options. We’ll break down what makes each type of oven special and what features really matter.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll understand the differences between microwave and convection ovens, know what to look for when shopping, and feel confident in choosing the best one for your cooking needs. Let’s dive in and find the perfect kitchen companion for you!
Our Top 5 Microwave And Convection Oven Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave And Convection Oven Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.6/10
The TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen helper. It’s a microwave, but it also air fries, bakes with convection, broils, and more. This makes it great for trying out different recipes and cooking healthy meals. Its black stainless steel look also adds a touch of style to any kitchen counter.
What We Like:
- It’s an 8-in-1 machine, so it does a lot of cooking jobs.
- You can air fry food with less fat, making it healthier.
- The turntable remembers where your food was, so it cooks evenly.
- It has a child lock to keep little ones safe.
- The 1.0 cubic foot size is good for fitting a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- It has handy features like popcorn buttons and a mute function.
- The black stainless steel finish looks modern and is easy to clean.
- It has a powerful 1000-watt microwave output.
What Could Be Improved:
- Figuring out the two-step child lock might take a moment.
- The odor removal mode is a nice feature, but its effectiveness might vary.
This TOSHIBA microwave oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and healthy cooking options in one stylish package.
2. BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry
Rating: 9.4/10
Meet the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven, your new kitchen all-star! This stylish stainless steel appliance is more than just a microwave. It’s a versatile cooker that can handle all your mealtime needs. From quick snacks to family dinners, it makes preparing food simple and efficient. Its 0.9 cubic foot size is perfect for countertops without taking up too much space.
What We Like:
- It’s a 5-in-1 appliance: microwave, air fryer, combi (grill/convection), bake, and roast. You can cook almost anything!
- It has 10 cooking levels and 7 auto menus. These settings help you cook different foods perfectly.
- The air fryer has 11 presets. This makes cooking popular air-fried foods super easy.
- Speedy cooking is a breeze. Just press start for 30 seconds of full power.
- The child-lock feature is great for families. It keeps little ones from accidentally changing settings.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity might be small for larger families or big meals.
- While versatile, mastering all 5 cooking functions might take some practice.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It offers a lot of cooking options in one compact unit.
3. Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.4/10
The Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, ML-EC42P(SS), is a versatile kitchen helper. It does more than just microwave food. This appliance also air fries, bakes with convection, and combines microwave and convection cooking. It makes healthy eating easier because you can enjoy fried foods with less fat. This one machine can handle many cooking tasks, saving you space and effort.
What We Like:
- It’s a 4-in-1 appliance: microwave, air fryer, convection, and combination cooking.
- The air fryer feature lets you make tasty fried foods with less oil.
- It has smart sensor menus for perfect results with popular foods like pizza and veggies.
- The large 1.5 cu ft capacity with a 13.6-inch turntable fits big items like a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- It has a stylish stainless steel look that fits well in most kitchens.
- The mute function lets you turn off the buzzer sound if you want quiet.
- It includes handy features like one-touch popcorn, memory, speedy cooking, and a kitchen timer.
- The position memory turntable makes sure your food cooks evenly.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the exterior black enclosure less premium than a full stainless steel finish.
- While it offers many functions, mastering all of them might take a little practice.
This Toshiba oven is a great addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and healthy cooking options. It’s a smart choice for families and anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine.
4. GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.1/10
The GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven is a true kitchen multitasker. It’s not just a microwave; it’s also an air fryer, broiler, and convection oven all in one! This smart appliance is perfect for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or anywhere you need to save space without sacrificing cooking options. Its stainless steel finish looks great on any countertop, and at 1.0 cubic feet, it’s a good size for most everyday needs.
What We Like:
- Air Fry Mode: You can make your favorite snacks extra crispy and healthier.
- Convection Mode: This mode helps food cook evenly and get a nice golden-brown finish.
- Broil Mode: Get that grilled effect right in your microwave for perfectly seared food.
- Preset Controls: Simple buttons for things like fries and nuggets make cooking super easy.
- Compact Size: It fits easily on your counter or in tight spaces like a dorm room.
- Powerful Wattage: At 1,050 watts, it heats and cooks food quickly.
- Child-Lock Technology: This safety feature keeps little hands from accidentally turning it on.
- Glass Turntable: Your food spins for even cooking every time.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instruction manual could be clearer about using all the different modes.
- Some users found the beeping sound a bit loud.
This GE microwave oven is an excellent addition to any kitchen looking for versatility and convenience. It offers a lot of cooking power and options in a compact package.
5. Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.5/10
The Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven is a kitchen game-changer. It’s more than just a microwave; it’s a versatile appliance that can also air fry, convection bake, and even combine microwave and convection cooking. This means you can cook a wider variety of meals with just one machine. Its smart sensor technology helps ensure your food is cooked perfectly every time, making meal prep a breeze.
What We Like:
- It’s a 4-in-1 appliance: microwave, air fryer, convection oven, and combo cooker. This offers lots of cooking options.
- You can enjoy healthier fried foods with less oil thanks to the air fry function. It keeps the tasty flavor you love.
- It combines microwave and convection cooking for better food texture. It also has auto menus for baking, defrosting, and roasting popular foods.
- The large 1.5 cubic foot capacity and 13.6-inch turntable can fit a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza, perfect for families.
- It looks sleek in your kitchen with its black stainless steel finish and easy-to-clean interior.
- Convenient features like one-touch popcorn, memory function, and a mute button make cooking easier. The mute function lets you turn off the annoying buzzer.
- It’s powerful with 1000 watts of microwave power and 10 different power settings.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it offers many functions, learning to use all of them might take a little practice for some.
- The external dimensions are quite large, so make sure you have enough counter space.
This Toshiba Air Fryer Combo is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and healthy cooking options. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Microwave and Convection Oven
So, you’re thinking about getting a microwave and convection oven? That’s a smart move! These handy appliances do more than just reheat leftovers. They can bake, roast, and even grill. Let’s break down what you need to know to find the perfect one for your kitchen.
Why a Microwave and Convection Oven?
A regular microwave is great for quick heating. A convection oven uses a fan to circulate hot air, which cooks food evenly and makes it crispy. A microwave and convection oven combines both, giving you the best of both worlds. You get super-fast heating from the microwave and delicious, evenly cooked meals from the convection. It’s like having two ovens in one!
Key Features to Look For
Capacity
How much food do you need to cook? Ovens come in different sizes. Small ones are good for one or two people. Larger ones are better for families or when you entertain guests. Think about the dishes you usually make.
Power (Wattage)
Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most microwaves have power between 700 and 1200 watts. For convection cooking, look for wattage around 1000-1500 watts. More power is usually better for quicker results.
Convection Settings
Check out the different ways the convection feature works. Some ovens have pre-programmed settings for common foods like pizza or chicken. Others let you control the temperature and fan speed yourself. More options give you more cooking freedom.
Easy-to-Use Controls
You want an oven with buttons or a dial that are simple to understand. Digital displays are usually clearer. Look for controls that make it easy to switch between microwave and convection modes.
Turntable or Convection Rack
A turntable helps food cook evenly in microwave mode. For convection, you might use a rack to lift food closer to the heating element. Some ovens come with both.
Safety Features
Look for features like child lock to keep little hands safe. A cool-touch exterior is also a good idea.
Important Materials
Interior Material
Most ovens have stainless steel or ceramic interiors. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean. Ceramic is scratch-resistant and often easier to wipe down. Both are good choices.
Exterior Material
The outside is usually made of stainless steel or plastic. Stainless steel looks sleek and modern. Plastic is lighter and often less expensive.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Build Quality
A well-built oven feels solid. The door should open and close smoothly. Check reviews to see if people mention any problems with durability.
Brand Reputation
Some brands are known for making reliable appliances. Sticking with a trusted brand can give you peace of mind.
User Reviews
Read what other people say about the ovens you’re considering. They can tell you about real-world performance and any issues they encountered.
Warranty
A good warranty shows that the manufacturer stands behind their product. Look for at least a one-year warranty.
User Experience and Use Cases
Quick Meals
Use the microwave function to heat up soup, cook frozen meals, or reheat last night’s dinner in minutes.
Baking and Roasting
Use the convection feature to bake cookies, roast chicken, or cook a small pizza. It gives food a nice crispy finish.
Grilling and Toasting
Some models have grilling elements. You can toast bread or get a nice sear on meats.
Defrosting
Both microwave and convection functions can help you defrost frozen food quickly and evenly.
Space Saving
If you have a small kitchen, a microwave and convection oven can replace separate microwave and toaster oven, saving counter space.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main difference between a microwave and a convection oven?
A: A microwave uses waves to heat food from the inside out. A convection oven uses a fan to circulate hot air, cooking food evenly and making it crispy on the outside.
Q: Can I use metal in a microwave and convection oven?
A: You can usually use metal in convection mode, like you would in a regular oven. However, you should **never** use metal in microwave mode, as it can cause sparks and damage the oven.
Q: How do I clean a microwave and convection oven?
A: Unplug the oven. Wipe the inside with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tough stains, you can heat a bowl of water with lemon juice for a few minutes, then wipe clean. Always check your oven’s manual for specific cleaning instructions.
Q: Is convection cooking slower than microwave cooking?
A: Microwave cooking is very fast. Convection cooking is usually slower than microwaving but faster and more even than a traditional oven. It also gives better results for baking and roasting.
Q: What kind of dishes can I cook in a microwave and convection oven?
A: You can cook almost anything! From reheating and steaming in microwave mode to baking cakes, roasting vegetables, and cooking pizzas in convection mode.
Q: Do I need a special rack for convection cooking?
A: Yes, most convection ovens come with a rack. This rack lifts your food so the hot air can circulate around it properly.
Q: How much space do I need around the oven?
A: Always check the manufacturer’s instructions. Generally, you need a few inches of space around the sides and back, and more space above for ventilation.
Q: Are microwave and convection ovens energy efficient?
A: They can be more energy efficient than a large traditional oven, especially for smaller portions. The microwave function is very quick, saving energy.
Q: What’s the difference between a combination microwave and a solo convection oven?
A: A combination microwave has both microwave and convection functions. A solo convection oven only has the convection cooking feature.
Q: How long do these ovens typically last?
A: With proper care and use, a good quality microwave and convection oven can last between 7 to 10 years.
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!