Imagine a kitchen appliance that can bake a cake, roast a chicken, and reheat leftovers all in one sleek package. That’s the magic of a built-in microwave convection oven! These amazing machines are becoming a must-have for modern kitchens, blending the speed of a microwave with the browning and crisping power of a regular oven. But with so many models out there, picking the perfect one can feel like a puzzle.
You want an oven that fits your space, cooks your food just right, and doesn’t break the bank. It’s tough to know which features are truly useful and which ones are just fancy extras. Are you tired of juggling multiple appliances or settling for food that’s not quite cooked through? We get it!
That’s why we’ve put together this guide. We’ll break down what makes a great built-in microwave convection oven, helping you understand the key features and compare different types. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to choose the appliance that will transform your cooking and make your kitchen life so much easier.
Our Top 5 Built In Microwave Convection Oven Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Built In Microwave Convection Oven Detailed Reviews
1. GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.2/10
The GE GCST10A1WSS is a super handy 4-in-1 microwave oven. It’s not just for reheating leftovers; it can also air fry, broil, and use convection heat! This makes it a fantastic appliance for any kitchen, especially if you’re tight on space like in a dorm room or a small apartment. Its sleek stainless steel design looks good on any countertop.
What We Like:
- Versatile Cooking: It’s like having multiple appliances in one! You can air fry for crispy snacks, broil to get that perfect sear, and use convection for even baking and roasting.
- Safety First: The two-step child lock is a great feature for families with little ones, keeping them safe from starting it accidentally.
- Quick and Easy Presets: Want fries or chicken nuggets? Just press a button! The preset controls make cooking common foods a breeze and ensure they come out just right.
- Compact and Powerful: Despite its smaller size (1.0 cu. ft.), it packs a punch with 1,050 watts of power. It fits well in tight spaces but still cooks efficiently.
- Even Cooking: The glass turntable rotates your food, so everything cooks evenly. No more cold spots in your meal!
What Could Be Improved:
- Learning Curve: With so many functions, it might take a little time to figure out all the settings and how to best use each mode.
- Capacity: While compact, the 1.0 cu. ft. size might be a bit small for cooking large meals or for bigger families.
This GE microwave is a smart addition for anyone needing a multi-functional appliance that saves space and offers a variety of cooking options. It’s a great way to upgrade your cooking game without needing a whole new kitchen.
2. KoolMore KM-CWO30-SS Built-in Microwave with Convection Oven and Air Fryer
Rating: 8.8/10
The KoolMore KM-CWO30-SS is a sleek, silver, 30-inch built-in microwave that brings a lot of cooking power to your kitchen. It’s not just a microwave; it’s also a convection oven and an air fryer. This means you can cook, bake, and crisp your favorite foods all in one appliance. With 1000 watts of power, it heats and cooks food quickly and efficiently. Its 1.6 cubic feet of space means it can handle meals for your whole family. Plus, its stainless-steel finish looks great in any modern kitchen.
What We Like:
- It’s a 3-in-1 appliance: microwave, convection oven, and air fryer.
- The 1000-watt power cooks food fast.
- The 1.6 cubic feet capacity is large enough for big meals.
- It’s designed for built-in installation, making your kitchen look tidy.
- The air fryer feature lets you make healthier, crispy foods.
- It’s easy to clean with its manual clean type.
- The controls are user-friendly, making it simple to operate.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product is a built-in model, so it requires professional installation.
- Specific details about the 10 power levels are not provided.
This KoolMore appliance is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering great versatility for everyday cooking. It makes preparing a wide variety of meals easier and more enjoyable.
3. Gasland 24 Inch Built in microwave oven
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Gasland 24 Inch Built-in Microwave Oven. This versatile appliance combines a powerful microwave with a convection oven, giving you the flexibility to cook a wide variety of meals. Its sleek stainless steel design and user-friendly features make it a fantastic addition to any modern kitchen.
What We Like:
- 2-in-1 Convenience: It’s both a microwave and a convection oven, so you can easily heat, broil, and cook steaks, roasts, pizza, and more.
- Easy Cooking: With 8 auto-cook programs like popcorn, pizza, and sensor cook, you can prepare meals with just one touch.
- Even Heating: The 3D convection heating system spreads hot air evenly for faster, more consistent cooking without cold spots.
- Safe to Touch: The cool door technology, made with 3-layer tempered glass, keeps the outside cool and safe for families.
- Quiet Operation: The ultra-quiet soft-close door opens and closes smoothly without loud noises, creating a peaceful kitchen environment.
What Could Be Improved:
- The control panel has a protective film that needs to be peeled off before use, which might be a minor inconvenience for some.
This Gasland microwave oven combo offers a great blend of functionality and convenience. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to simplify their cooking process and enjoy delicious meals with ease.
4. Tough Grade RV Convection Microwave with Air Fryer
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your RV kitchen with the Tough Grade RV Convection Microwave with Air Fryer. This 6-in-1 built-in combo oven is a game-changer for cooking on the road. It replaces old models and gives you lots of cooking options in one easy-to-use appliance. You can microwave, grill, bake with convection, broil, air fry, or use a combination of these. It’s designed to fit perfectly into your RV, making it a smart and efficient addition.
What We Like:
- It offers amazing cooking versatility with six different cooking modes, so you can cook almost anything.
- The preset auto menu and one-touch programs make cooking fast and simple.
- You get precise control over your cooking with features like multi-stage cooking and ECO mode.
- Safety is a priority with a child lock and a clear glass turntable for even cooking.
- It’s designed for easy installation in RVs and directly replaces popular older models.
- The 1.0 cu ft capacity is generous, but the exterior dimensions are still compact for RVs.
- Its durable and lightweight construction, weighing just 45.4 lbs, makes it easy to handle during travel.
What Could Be Improved:
- This unit is designed for built-in installation only and cannot be mounted under a cabinet, which might limit placement options for some RV layouts.
This Tough Grade RV Convection Microwave is a fantastic all-in-one solution for any RVer looking to expand their cooking capabilities. It combines many appliances into one compact, efficient unit.
5. 24 Inch Built-in Microwave and Convection Oven Combination
Rating: 8.9/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the ThermoMate 24 Inch Built-in Microwave and Convection Oven Combination. This sleek stainless steel appliance offers the best of both worlds, combining powerful microwave cooking with versatile convection oven capabilities. Its 1.6 cu. ft. capacity and 1000-watt microwave power make it ideal for a wide range of dishes. The intuitive touch control LCD display and sensor cooking features simplify meal preparation, ensuring perfect results every time.
What We Like:
- Versatile cooking: It offers both convection and microwave modes, plus broil, sensor cooking, reheat, and defrost settings.
- Even cooking: The convection heating element with top and bottom elements circulates hot air for rapid preheating and even cooking.
- Energy efficient: The double-layered glass door locks in heat and prevents steam from escaping, making cooking more efficient and safer.
- Convenient accessories: It includes a reversible ceramic turntable and a wire rack for flexible cooking options.
- Stylish design: The 24-inch stainless steel finish looks great in any modern kitchen.
- Powerful performance: It boasts 1000 watts of microwave power, a 1700-watt convection element, and a 1750-watt broil element.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product size information could be more prominently displayed.
- More detailed information on specific cooking times for different foods might be helpful for new users.
This ThermoMate combination oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering both convenience and excellent cooking performance.
Your Guide to Built-In Microwave Convection Ovens
A built-in microwave convection oven is a kitchen game-changer. It’s like having two appliances in one, saving you space and letting you cook in more ways. These ovens combine the quick heating of a microwave with the even cooking of a convection oven. This means you can reheat leftovers fast, bake cookies, roast chicken, and even air fry! Let’s dive into what you need to know before you buy.
1. Key Features to Look For
Size Matters
First, decide on the size. Built-in ovens come in different widths, typically 24 inches or 30 inches. Measure your cabinet space carefully. Think about what you’ll cook. A larger oven is better for families or if you often cook big meals.
Capacity
The inside space, or capacity, is measured in cubic feet. A 1.5 cubic foot oven is a good middle ground for most households. If you bake a lot or cook large roasts, look for 2.0 cubic feet or more.
Power Levels and Wattage
Microwave power is measured in watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most built-in microwaves offer around 900 to 1100 watts. Look for multiple power levels so you can adjust the heat for different foods.
Convection Cooking Options
Check the convection features. Some ovens have just a fan, while others have a heating element too. A full convection system with a heating element will give you the best baking and roasting results. Look for pre-programmed settings for common dishes like pizza or potatoes.
User-Friendly Controls
Digital touch controls are common and easy to clean. Some models have knobs, which some people prefer. Make sure the display is clear and easy to read. Preset cooking programs can simplify your cooking.
Other Handy Features
- Turntable: A rotating turntable ensures even cooking. Some larger models might not have one, relying on convection fans instead.
- Sensor Cooking: This feature detects moisture and adjusts cooking time automatically.
- Keep Warm Function: Perfect for when dinner isn’t ready for everyone at the same time.
- Child Lock: A safety feature for families with young children.
2. Important Materials
Stainless Steel Interior and Exterior
Stainless steel is a popular choice for both the inside and outside. It’s durable, easy to clean, and looks sleek in any kitchen. Stainless steel interiors are also more resistant to rust and stains.
Glass Door and Window
A clear glass door allows you to see your food as it cooks. Look for tempered glass for safety and durability.
Ceramic or Porcelain Enamel Interior
Some ovens have ceramic or porcelain enamel interiors. These are also easy to clean and can be very durable. They are often scratch-resistant.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Build Quality
A well-built oven will feel sturdy. The door should open and close smoothly. Check for good seals around the door to keep heat in.
Brand Reputation
Stick with well-known appliance brands. They often offer better quality, longer warranties, and more reliable customer service.
Energy Efficiency
Look for Energy Star certified models. These ovens use less electricity, saving you money on your utility bills over time.
Ease of Cleaning
A self-cleaning feature or easy-to-wipe surfaces can save you a lot of hassle. Removable turntables are also a plus.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Everyday Convenience
Use it to quickly reheat meals, defrost frozen items, or pop popcorn. The microwave function is perfect for busy weeknights.
Baking and Roasting
The convection feature turns it into a mini oven. Bake cookies, roast a small chicken, or cook a casserole. It’s great for smaller portions or when you don’t want to heat up your main oven.
Specialty Cooking
Many models offer settings for specific foods like bagels, pizza, or baked potatoes. Some even have air frying capabilities, giving you crispy fries without a separate appliance.
Space Saving
For smaller kitchens or apartments, a built-in unit frees up counter space. It integrates seamlessly into your cabinetry for a clean look.
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 for even cooking and browning, like a traditional oven.
Q: Can I use metal in a built-in microwave convection oven?
A: You can usually use metal racks and cookware when using the convection or bake settings. However, never use metal in microwave-only mode, as it can cause sparks and damage the oven.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my built-in oven?
A: Most interiors can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Check your manual for specific cleaning instructions, especially for stainless steel or ceramic surfaces. Some have self-cleaning features.
Q: What size oven do I need?
A: Consider your cabinet space and how much you cook. Standard widths are 24 or 30 inches. Capacity ranges from 1.5 to 2.0+ cubic feet.
Q: Are built-in ovens difficult to install?
A: Installation usually requires basic electrical knowledge and fitting into a pre-built cabinet opening. It’s often best to have a professional installer for a safe and secure setup.
Q: How long do built-in microwave convection ovens typically last?
A: With proper care and use, they can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years.
Q: Do I need a special type of cookware?
A: For microwave use, use glass, ceramic, or microwave-safe plastic. For convection, you can use oven-safe glass, ceramic, metal bakeware, and the racks provided.
Q: What is “sensor cooking”?
A: Sensor cooking uses humidity sensors to detect how much moisture is coming from your food. It then automatically adjusts the cooking time and power for optimal results.
Q: Is a built-in unit more powerful than a countertop model?
A: Not necessarily. Power (wattage) varies by model, regardless of whether it’s built-in or countertop. Focus on the wattage listed for the specific unit you’re considering.
Q: What should I do if my oven isn’t heating properly?
A: First, check that the oven is properly plugged in and that the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. If the problem persists, consult your user manual or contact customer support for troubleshooting assistance.
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 Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!