Imagine a kitchen appliance that could do it all: toast your bread to golden perfection, bake a batch of cookies like a pro, and still reheat your leftovers in a flash. Sounds like a dream, right? That’s the magic of a countertop convection microwave, a true workhorse for any home chef, from busy parents to aspiring bakers.
But stepping into the world of these versatile machines can feel a little overwhelming. So many brands, so many features – how do you know which one will truly make your life easier and your meals tastier? You want a gadget that cooks evenly, doesn’t take up too much precious counter space, and fits your budget. It’s tough to sift through all the noise and find the perfect fit for your kitchen.
That’s where we come in! By the end of this post, you’ll feel confident in understanding what makes a great countertop convection microwave. We’ll break down the key features, explore different models, and highlight what to look for so you can finally choose the appliance that unlocks a world of culinary possibilities right on your countertop.
Our Top 5 Countertop Convection Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Countertop Convection Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.2/10
The TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen helper. It does more than just heat food; it can also air fry, bake, broil, and more. This black stainless steel appliance looks sleek on any countertop. It’s designed for busy families with features like a child lock and a large turntable.
What We Like:
- It’s an 8-in-1 appliance, so it can do many cooking jobs.
- You can air fry your favorite foods with less oil.
- The 1000-watt microwave power heats food quickly.
- The 12.4-inch turntable is big enough for a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- It has a child lock to keep little hands safe.
- The odor removal mode keeps your kitchen smelling fresh.
- It has convenient one-touch buttons, like for popcorn.
- The black stainless steel design is stylish and easy to clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions for the two-step child lock could be clearer.
- While it has a compact footprint, the internal capacity might feel limiting for very large meals.
This TOSHIBA microwave oven offers a great mix of functions and style for your kitchen. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a multi-talented countertop appliance.
2. GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.2/10
The GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen helper. It’s not just a microwave; it also air fries, broils, and uses convection heating. This makes it a great addition for any kitchen, from a busy family home to a small dorm room. Its stainless steel finish looks sleek on any countertop.
What We Like:
- The built-in air fryer lets you cook crispy foods with less oil, making them healthier.
- Convection mode cooks food evenly and gives it a nice golden-brown finish.
- Broil mode is perfect for searing meats or caramelizing vegetables, just like a grill.
- Preset controls for common foods like fries and nuggets make cooking simple.
- It’s compact at 1.0 cubic feet but still powerful with 1,050 watts, fitting easily in small spaces.
- The two-step child lock feature adds safety by preventing accidental use.
- The glass turntable ensures your food cooks evenly all the way through.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many functions, some users might find it takes a little practice to master all the different modes.
- The 1.0 cubic foot size is great for small spaces but might be limiting for very large meals.
This GE microwave oven offers a lot of cooking options in one compact appliance. It’s a practical choice for anyone looking to save space and cook a variety of foods easily.
3. BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry
Rating: 8.8/10
The BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen helper. It can do more than just reheat leftovers. This appliance can microwave, air fry, bake, roast, and even use convection heat. Its stainless steel finish looks great on any countertop. It’s a compact size, perfect for smaller kitchens.
What We Like:
- It’s a 5-in-1 appliance, saving you counter space.
- It has a powerful 900-watt output for fast cooking.
- It includes 7 helpful auto menus for common foods.
- The air fryer function has 11 specific presets for popular snacks.
- You can quickly start cooking at full power for 30-second intervals.
- The child-lock feature keeps little ones safe.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity might be small for larger meals or families.
- Some advanced users might want more manual control over air frying or convection settings beyond the presets.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a great addition to any kitchen. It offers a lot of cooking options in one convenient package.
4. Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.5/10
Meet the Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, a versatile kitchen helper that does more than just heat food. This appliance brings together microwave, air fry, convection, and combination cooking, all in one sleek silver package. Its smart sensor and pre-programmed menus make cooking a breeze, while the large capacity is perfect for feeding the whole family. Plus, its stylish stainless steel finish adds a modern touch to any kitchen counter.
What We Like:
- It’s a 4-in-1 appliance, so you get a microwave, air fryer, convection oven, and combo cooker in one.
- Enjoy healthier fried foods with the air fry function, using less oil but keeping that great taste.
- The combination of microwave and convection cooking gives you better textures for baked goods, roasted meats, and more.
- It has helpful auto menus for baking, defrosting, and roasting, plus sensor menus for popular foods like pizza.
- The large 1.5 cubic foot capacity with a 13.6-inch turntable fits a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza easily.
- It looks great with a stainless steel finish and an easy-to-clean interior.
- Convenience features like one-touch popcorn, memory function, speedy cooking, and a kitchen timer are included.
- You can mute the annoying buzzer by holding down the “8” button for a few seconds.
- It offers 1000 watts of microwave power with 10 different power settings.
What Could Be Improved:
- The enclosure is black, while the door frame is stainless steel; some might prefer a fully stainless steel look.
- While it’s a combo, mastering all four functions might take a little practice for some users.
This Toshiba Air Fryer Combo is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering a wide range of cooking options in a single, stylish appliance. It simplifies meal preparation and helps you create delicious, healthier dishes with ease.
5. TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo
Rating: 9.4/10
Meet your new kitchen MVP: the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo. This isn’t just a microwave; it’s a culinary powerhouse designed to simplify your cooking and expand your recipe repertoire. With its impressive 1.0 cu.ft capacity and 1000W of power, it handles everything from quick snacks to family dinners with ease.
What We Like:
- Incredibly versatile, it acts as a microwave, air fryer, convection oven, broiler, defroster, and even makes yogurt, saving precious counter space.
- The Inverter Microwave with Smart Sensor technology ensures food cooks evenly without any cold spots, delivering tender results every time.
- Enjoy healthier, crispier fried foods with the air fryer function that uses 360° rapid heat circulation and no added oil.
- Speedy Combi-Modes combine microwave, convection, and grill functions to cook food faster and achieve perfect crispy exteriors and tender insides.
- Comes with a helpful cookbook and numerous auto menus and presets, making it easy for anyone to create delicious meals.
- The Mute Function is a thoughtful addition for quieter kitchen environments.
What Could Be Improved:
- The external dimensions, while accommodating its features, might be a consideration for very small kitchens.
- While powerful, the 1000W microwave output is standard; some users might prefer higher wattage for even faster cooking.
This TOSHIBA combo is a fantastic all-in-one solution for modern kitchens, offering convenience, health benefits, and culinary creativity. It’s an excellent investment for anyone looking to upgrade their cooking experience.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Countertop Convection Microwave
Why a Convection Microwave is a Game Changer
Are you tired of your microwave only reheating food? Do you wish it could bake, roast, and toast too? A countertop convection microwave is your answer! It’s like having a mini oven and a microwave all in one. This handy appliance can do so much more than just warm up leftovers. It can cook a whole chicken, bake cookies, or toast your bread to golden perfection. Let’s dive into what makes a great convection microwave.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep these important features in mind:
1. Wattage Power
- Higher wattage means faster cooking. Look for at least 900 watts for good performance.
- Lower wattage is okay for basic tasks but might take longer for baking or roasting.
2. Capacity (Cubic Feet)
- Small (0.5 – 1.0 cu ft): Good for small kitchens or singles. Fits a dinner plate easily.
- Medium (1.1 – 1.5 cu ft): Best for families or those who cook more. Can fit a small casserole dish.
- Large (1.6 cu ft and up): Ideal for big families or cooking larger meals. Fits a whole chicken or a big pizza.
3. Convection Cooking Settings
- Multiple Presets: Look for settings like “Bake,” “Roast,” “Broil,” and “Toast.”
- Temperature Control: You should be able to set specific temperatures for baking and roasting.
- Preheat Function: Some models let you preheat the oven for better baking results.
4. Microwave Functions
- Standard Microwave Power Levels: Make sure it has adjustable power levels for different cooking needs.
- Defrost Options: Look for weight or time defrost to safely thaw frozen foods.
- Quick Cook Buttons: Buttons for popcorn, potato, or beverage can be super convenient.
5. Ease of Use and Cleaning
- Intuitive Controls: Dials and buttons should be easy to understand. A digital display is helpful.
- Turntable: A removable turntable helps food cook evenly and is easy to clean.
- Interior Material: Stainless steel interiors are durable and easy to wipe down. Non-stick coatings are also a plus.
Important Materials
The materials used in a convection microwave affect its durability and how well it cooks.
- Stainless Steel Interior: This is a top choice. It’s strong, doesn’t rust, and cleans up easily. It also helps reflect heat for more even cooking.
- Glass Turntable: This is standard. It spins your food for consistent heating. Make sure it’s dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
- Exterior Casing: Most are made of metal. Stainless steel exteriors look sleek and are easy to keep clean. Plastic exteriors are common on less expensive models.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a convection microwave great or not so great.
What Makes it Better:
- Even Heating: A good convection fan distributes heat evenly. This means your food cooks thoroughly without hot spots.
- Precise Temperature Control: The ability to set exact temperatures is crucial for baking and roasting.
- Durable Build: Solid construction means it will last longer.
- Quiet Operation: Some models are noisier than others. A quieter machine is more pleasant to use.
What Makes it Worse:
- Uneven Cooking: A weak convection fan or poor design leads to food that’s partly cooked and partly not.
- Inaccurate Temperatures: If the oven doesn’t reach or maintain the temperature you set, baking will be difficult.
- Flimsy Construction: Thin metal or cheap plastic parts can break easily.
- Difficult Controls: Confusing buttons or a hard-to-read display frustrate users.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your convection microwave. This will help you pick the right one.
For Busy Individuals or Couples:
- A medium-sized model with quick cook options is perfect. You can reheat lunches, make a quick dinner, and even bake a small batch of cookies.
For Families:
- A larger capacity model with robust convection settings is a must. You can roast a chicken for Sunday dinner or bake a pizza for movie night.
For Small Kitchens:
- A compact convection microwave saves valuable counter space. It still offers great versatility without taking over your kitchen.
For Aspiring Bakers:
- Look for models with precise temperature controls and preheat functions. These will give you the best results for cakes, bread, and pastries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between a microwave and a convection microwave?
A: A regular microwave uses microwaves to heat food. A convection microwave adds a heating element and a fan. This fan circulates hot air, like a regular oven, allowing it to bake, roast, and broil food.
Q: Can a convection microwave replace my regular oven?
A: For many tasks, yes! It’s great for smaller meals, baking, roasting, and toasting. However, very large items or cooking for a big crowd might still require a full-sized oven.
Q: How long do convection microwaves last?
A: With good care, most convection microwaves last between 7 to 10 years. Regular cleaning and following the manufacturer’s instructions will help it last longer.
Q: Are convection microwaves hard to clean?
A: Most are designed for easy cleaning. Removable glass turntables and stainless steel interiors make wiping down spills simple. Some even have self-cleaning functions.
Q: Can I use metal cookware in a convection microwave?
A: Yes, you can use oven-safe metal cookware in convection mode. However, you cannot use metal in microwave mode, as it can cause sparks and damage the appliance.
Q: What’s the best way to cook with convection?
A: For best results, preheat your convection microwave if the option is available. Place food in oven-safe dishes and position them on the rack, not directly on the glass turntable, for even baking and roasting.
Q: Do convection microwaves use more energy than regular microwaves?
A: They can use a bit more energy when using the convection feature because of the heating element and fan. However, they often cook food faster, which can balance out the energy use.
Q: What size convection microwave do I need?
A: Consider how much food you typically cook and how many people you cook for. Small kitchens might benefit from a compact model, while larger families may need a bigger one.
Q: Are there specific racks or accessories for convection cooking?
A: Yes, most convection microwaves come with a metal rack. This rack elevates your food, allowing hot air to circulate around it for better cooking results.
Q: What is the warranty typically like?
A: Warranties vary by brand and model. Most offer a 1-year warranty on parts and labor. Some may offer longer warranties on specific components like the magnetron.
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!