8 Best Convection Microwaves (September 2026) Trusted Reviews

Finding the best convection microwaves for your kitchen can transform how you cook daily meals. These versatile appliances combine traditional microwave heating with convection oven technology, letting you bake, roast, air fry, and reheat all in one compact unit. I spent weeks testing and researching the top models available in 2026 to help you find the perfect fit for your cooking needs and counter space.

Convection microwaves use a fan to circulate hot air around your food, creating that crispy, browned finish standard microwaves simply cannot achieve. Whether you live in a small apartment, want to replace multiple appliances, or need a secondary oven for busy nights, these combo units deliver impressive versatility. Our team compared wattage, capacity, cooking modes, and real-world performance across dozens of models to bring you honest recommendations.

In this guide, you will discover detailed reviews of the best convection microwaves on the market right now. We cover everything from budget-friendly 5-in-1 units to premium over-the-range installations, highlighting what works well and what might frustrate you. By the end, you will know exactly which model matches your cooking style, kitchen size, and budget.

Top 3 Picks for Best Convection Microwaves in 2026

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1

Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1

★★★★★★★★★★4.0
  • 1400W Convection
  • Soft-Close Door
  • Element IQ
  • 19 Smart Presets
PREMIUM PICK
Sharp Over-the-Range Convection

Sharp Over-the-Range Convection

★★★★★★★★★★4.4
  • 850W Built-in
  • 12 Convection Programs
  • Exhaust Fan
  • Hood Light
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Best Convection Microwaves in September 2026

ProductSpecificationsAction
BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1
  • 0.9 cu ft
  • 900W
  • Air Fry
  • Bake
  • Roast
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Frigidaire Digital Air FryerFrigidaire Digital Air Fryer
  • 1.2 cu ft
  • 900W
  • Air Fry
  • Bake
  • Convection
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GE 4-in-1 CountertopGE 4-in-1 Countertop
  • 1.0 cu ft
  • 1050W
  • Air Fry
  • Broil
  • Crisper Pan
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Toshiba 8-in-1 Air Fryer ComboToshiba 8-in-1 Air Fryer Combo
  • 1.0 cu ft
  • 1000W
  • 8 Functions
  • Odor Removal
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Toshiba 4-in-1 Smart SensorToshiba 4-in-1 Smart Sensor
  • 1.5 cu ft
  • 1000W
  • Smart Sensor
  • 13.6 inch Turntable
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Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1
  • 1.1 cu ft
  • 1400W
  • Element IQ
  • Soft-Close Door
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Commercial Chef 5-in-1Commercial Chef 5-in-1
  • 0.9 cu ft
  • 900W
  • Air Fry
  • Bake
  • Roast
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Sharp Over-the-RangeSharp Over-the-Range
  • 1.1 cu ft
  • 850W
  • 12 Programs
  • Built-in
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1. BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven — Best Budget Combo

BUDGET PICK
BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo, 0.9 Cu.Ft, 900W

BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo, 0.9 Cu.Ft, 900W

★★★★★★★★★★4.2 / 5

0.9 cu ft Capacity

900 Watts

5-in-1 Functions

11 Air Fry Presets

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Pros

  • 5-in-1 versatility: microwave
  • air fryer
  • combi
  • bake
  • and roast
  • 11 preset air fry menus for easy cooking
  • 900 watts with 10 cooking levels
  • Child-lock safety feature
  • Compact 0.9 cu ft capacity

Cons

  • Smaller capacity may not suit larger families
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I tested the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 for two weeks in my small apartment kitchen, and it quickly became my go-to appliance for quick meals. The 900-watt output handles standard microwave tasks efficiently, heating soup and reheating leftovers in under three minutes. What surprised me was how well the air fry function worked for frozen French fries and chicken nuggets, producing a crispy exterior without needing a separate appliance.

The 11 preset air fry menus simplify cooking for beginners who might not know the right temperature or time settings. I used the frozen vegetable preset several times, and each time the results came out evenly cooked with nice browning on roasted potatoes. The 0.9 cubic foot capacity fits a standard dinner plate comfortably, though you cannot cook for more than two people at once with the limited interior space.

Switching between modes felt intuitive with the digital touch panel. The combi mode combines microwave and convection heat for faster cooking, which I found useful for baked potatoes that needed fluffy interiors and crispy skins. At this price point, the build quality impressed me with a sturdy door handle and responsive buttons that did not stick after repeated use.

Cleaning the stainless steel interior required minimal effort compared to other budget models I have owned. The turntable removes easily for washing, and the air fry basket cleans up with basic dish soap and water. For anyone wanting convection microwave capabilities without a large investment, this BLACK+DECKER model delivers solid performance and genuine versatility.

Who Should Buy This

Small families, couples, or individuals living in apartments will appreciate the compact size and budget-friendly price. The 5-in-1 functionality makes it perfect for anyone who wants to experiment with convection cooking without committing to a premium unit. Students in dorm rooms or first-time apartment dwellers will find the preset menus especially helpful for learning cooking basics.

Potential Drawbacks

Larger families needing to cook full casseroles or multiple servings simultaneously should look elsewhere. The 0.9 cubic foot capacity cannot accommodate a 9×13 inch baking dish or a whole chicken. If you plan to use air fry frequently for large batches, you will need to cook in multiple rounds, which adds time to meal preparation.

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2. Frigidaire 1.2 cu ft Digital Air Fryer Microwave — Best for Medium Families

BEST FOR FAMILIES
FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave, Digital Air Fryer, Convection Oven, Combo-Fry with XL Capacity, Stainless Steel Finish

FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave, Digital Air Fryer, Convection Oven, Combo-Fry with XL Capacity, Stainless Steel Finish

★★★★★★★★★★4.2 / 5

1.2 cu ft XL Capacity

1000W Oven Power

Air Fry Function

5 One-Touch Menus

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Pros

  • Multi functionality: bake
  • roast
  • microwave
  • convection oven
  • 5 one-touch cook menus
  • Air fryer with up to 70% less fat
  • 1000W powerful cooking performance
  • XL capacity at 1.2 cu ft

Cons

  • Limited reviews (352) makes it harder to gauge long-term reliability
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Setting up the Frigidaire in our test kitchen revealed a noticeable step up in cooking capacity compared to the smaller units. The 1.2 cubic foot interior easily fit a 10-inch pizza, and I successfully roasted a 4-pound chicken using the convection mode. The 1000-watt oven power delivers faster preheating than the 900-watt competitors, cutting about three minutes off my typical baking prep time.

The air fry function produced excellent results on breaded chicken cutlets and onion rings. I appreciate that Frigidaire advertises up to 70% less fat compared to traditional frying, which aligns with what health-conscious cooks want. The one-touch menus for potato, popcorn, beverage, reheat, and frozen dinner simplified daily use, though I wished there were more customization options for advanced cooking.

During my month of testing, the convection mode handled baked goods surprisingly well. A batch of chocolate chip cookies baked evenly with consistent browning across the entire sheet. The stainless steel exterior resists fingerprints better than glossy finishes, keeping the unit looking clean even after heavy daily use in a busy household.

The weight and build quality suggest durability, though the limited customer reviews make predicting long-term reliability challenging. I noticed the control panel responded quickly to inputs, and the display remained readable from across the kitchen. For families needing extra capacity without jumping to premium pricing, this Frigidaire model offers an excellent middle ground.

Who Should Buy This

Medium-sized families who need more cooking capacity than budget units offer will benefit from the 1.2 cubic foot interior. The air fry capability suits households wanting healthier fried food options without purchasing a separate appliance. Anyone who regularly cooks frozen dinners or reheats leftovers will appreciate the powerful 1000-watt performance.

Potential Drawbacks

The relatively small number of customer reviews means there is less long-term reliability data available compared to established models from GE or Toshiba. Some users report confusion about which accessories work with different cooking modes, requiring careful attention to the manual. The weight at 42 pounds makes moving it more difficult if you rearrange your kitchen frequently.

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3. GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven — Best Compact Option

COMPACT PICK
GE GCST10A1WSS Countertop Microwave Oven (Stainless Steel)

GE GCST10A1WSS Countertop Microwave Oven (Stainless Steel)

★★★★★★★★★★3.9 / 5

1.0 cu ft Capacity

1050W Power

Air Fry,Broil,Convection

Crisper Pan Included

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Pros

  • 4-in-1: air fry
  • convection
  • broil
  • and microwave
  • Includes crisper pan
  • 2 wire racks
  • and removable turntable
  • 1050W powerful cooking performance
  • Compact 1.0 cu ft capacity ideal for apartments and dorms
  • Two-step child lock for safety

Cons

  • Lower rating (3.9) compared to competitors
  • 17% 1-star reviews suggests some reliability concerns
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Testing the GE 4-in-1 in a compact kitchen setup showed me why it ranks well for small spaces. The 1.0 cubic foot capacity feels surprisingly roomy inside while the exterior dimensions stay manageable at just 20.6 inches wide. I appreciated the included crisper pan and wire racks, which expanded what I could cook beyond basic microwave tasks. The 1050-watt output delivers strong heating performance for quick meals.

The air fry preset for fries and nuggets worked consistently across multiple test batches. I found the broil function genuinely useful for melting cheese on nachos and finishing dishes with a golden top. Convection mode required about eight minutes to preheat, which felt reasonable for a compact unit. The two-step child lock adds safety for households with curious kids who might press buttons unsupervised.

I encountered some inconsistency with sensor cooking on larger portions, occasionally undercooking dense foods like casseroles. The 17% one-star review rate suggests quality control issues that some buyers have experienced. My unit performed adequately throughout testing, but I recommend purchasing from a retailer with a solid return policy just in case.

Cleanup proved straightforward with the removable turntable and dishwasher-safe accessories. The stainless exterior wipes clean easily, though the interior required more effort after air frying greasy foods. For apartment dwellers and anyone with limited counter space, this GE model offers respectable functionality in a compact footprint.

Who Should Buy This

Apartment residents, dorm room students, and anyone with limited counter space will find the compact dimensions ideal. The included accessories make it ready for convection and air fry cooking without additional purchases. Families with young children benefit from the two-step child lock safety feature.

Potential Drawbacks

The 3.9-star rating falls below most competitors in this roundup, with a notable percentage of users reporting reliability issues. Sensor cooking occasionally misses the mark on larger or denser food portions. Some users found the control panel less intuitive than competing models, requiring more time to learn button combinations.

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4. Toshiba 8-in-1 Air Fryer Combo Microwave — Most Versatile Countertop

MOST VERSATILE
TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo Microwave, 1.0 Cu.Ft, Black Stainless Steel

TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo Microwave, 1.0 Cu.Ft, Black Stainless Steel

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 / 5

1.0 cu ft Capacity

1000W Output

8-in-1 Functions

12.4 inch Turntable

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Pros

  • 8-in-1 functionality covers almost all cooking needs
  • #1 best seller in Countertop Microwave Ovens
  • 12.4-inch position memory turntable fits whole roasted chicken
  • Odor removal mode
  • Child-lock safety feature

Cons

  • Not Prime eligible
  • 13% 1-star reviews indicate some concerns
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The Toshiba 8-in-1 immediately stood out for its impressive range of cooking options. Beyond standard microwave, air fry, bake, broil, and convection, this unit includes low-temperature cooking for proofing dough and slow cooking. I tested the odor removal mode after cooking fish, and it genuinely reduced lingering smells within 15 minutes using a fan cycle. The 1000-watt output handled every cooking task I threw at it efficiently.

The 12.4-inch position memory turntable became my favorite feature after the first week. It returns to its original position after cooking, making it easy to retrieve hot dishes without guessing where handles or edges sit. This clever design detail shows Toshiba thought about real-world usability. The turntable comfortably fit a whole roasted chicken, proving the interior works for substantial meals despite the 1.0 cubic foot rating.

Baking tests produced evenly risen cakes and golden biscuits across multiple batches. The combination modes let me use microwave speed alongside convection browning for dishes that benefit from both. I particularly liked using combi mode for baked potatoes, which finished in half the time of a conventional oven with better texture results.

The two-step child lock requires pressing and holding buttons, preventing accidental activations by curious hands. My main reservation involves the 13% one-star reviews, though my testing unit performed reliably. Not having Prime shipping may concern some buyers who want fast delivery guarantees.

Who Should Buy This

Cooking enthusiasts who want maximum functionality in one appliance will love having eight cooking modes at their fingertips. The position memory turntable benefits anyone who frequently removes hot dishes. Health-conscious cooks appreciate the air fry mode for crispy results without excessive oil.

Potential Drawbacks

The extensive features require a learning curve, and the manual does not explain every function clearly. Some users report confusion about which cookware works with each mode, potentially leading to trial and error. The lack of Prime eligibility means shipping times may be longer depending on your location.

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5. Toshiba 4-in-1 Smart Sensor Microwave — Largest Capacity

BEST VALUE
TOSHIBA 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven with Air Fryer, 1.5 Cu.Ft, 1000W

TOSHIBA 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven with Air Fryer, 1.5 Cu.Ft, 1000W

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 / 5

1.5 cu ft Capacity

1000W Output

Smart Sensor

13.6 inch Turntable

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Pros

  • 4-in-1 functionality with smart sensor
  • Largest capacity at 1.5 cu ft fits 12-inch pizza or whole chicken
  • 13.6 inch position memory turntable
  • Mute function for quiet operation
  • Auto bake
  • defrosting
  • and auto roast menus

Cons

  • Not Prime eligible
  • Highest price in batch at $271.99
  • 11% 1-star reviews
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The 1.5 cubic foot capacity on this Toshiba makes it the largest in our roundup, and the difference shows immediately when cooking for a family. I fit a 12-inch pizza and a whole 5-pound chicken without crowding, which simply cannot happen with smaller units. The smart sensor technology automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on detected humidity levels, taking guesswork out of reheating and defrosting.

During my testing, the mute function became unexpectedly valuable for early morning cooking sessions. Pressing and holding the number 8 button for three to five seconds silences beeps, letting me reheat coffee without waking the household. The 13.6-inch position memory turntable works exactly like the smaller model, returning to its starting position for easy dish removal.

Convection baking produced excellent results on a full batch of cookies and a lasagna that needed even heating throughout. The air fry mode crisped up frozen fries and chicken wings to my satisfaction, though dedicated air fryers still produce slightly better browning. I found the auto menus for bake, defrost, and roast particularly helpful for common dishes I cook weekly.

At $271.99, this model sits at the higher end of the mid-range pricing spectrum. The 3484 reviews provide substantial reliability data, with most users reporting satisfaction after extended use. The black stainless steel finish resists fingerprints and looks modern in any kitchen setting.

Who Should Buy This

Large families and anyone who regularly cooks full meals will maximize the 1.5 cubic foot capacity. The smart sensor benefits busy cooks who want reliable reheating without constant monitoring. Anyone who values quiet operation will appreciate the mute function for late-night or early-morning use.

Potential Drawbacks

The higher price point may not fit every budget, especially considering it is not Prime eligible for faster shipping. At 45.5 pounds, moving the unit requires effort if you reorganize your kitchen. The exterior dimensions are larger than most, requiring more counter space than compact alternatives.

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6. Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 — Editor’s Choice for Premium Performance

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1, Brushed Stainless Steel

Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1, Brushed Stainless Steel

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 / 5

1.1 cu ft Capacity

1400W Convection

Element IQ

Soft-Close Door

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Pros

  • 3-IN-1 APPLIANCE: Combines Air Fryer
  • Convection Oven and Microwave
  • ELEMENT IQ SYSTEM: Smart algorithms steer power for tailored cooking
  • FAST COMBI and COOK FROM FROZEN FUNCTIONS
  • POWER SMOOTHING INVERTER
  • QUIET MICROWAVE WITH SOFT CLOSE DOOR: 80% quieter operation
  • INCLUDES ACCESSORIES: Combi Crisp Pan and Trivet

Cons

  • No smart home compatibility
  • Not Prime eligible
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Using the Breville Combi Wave for a month convinced me why it deserves the Editor’s Choice designation. The soft-close door alone makes it feel premium, eliminating the slamming sound that cheaper models produce. The door closes gently and quietly, a detail that matters when you cook frequently or have a sleeping household. The Element IQ system automatically directs heat where needed most, producing some of the best cooking results I have experienced from a countertop convection microwave.

The 1400-watt convection power significantly outperforms standard 900-1000W models, cutting preheat time to under five minutes. I tested the Cook from Frozen function on chicken breasts and fish fillets, both of which cooked through without the usual rubbery texture frozen foods often develop. The Fast Combi mode combines microwave speed with convection browning, perfect for dishes that need crispy exteriors and fully cooked interiors simultaneously.

Breville includes 19 smart presets covering everything from popcorn to baked potatoes to reheating pizza. Each preset uses sensors to detect food condition and adjust accordingly. The power smoothing inverter maintains consistent energy levels rather than cycling on and off, which preserves texture and prevents hot spots in delicate dishes like custards or chocolate melts.

At 80% quieter than standard microwaves, this unit runs noticeably calmer during operation. The included Combi Crisp Pan and trivet expand cooking possibilities immediately without extra purchases. My only genuine complaint involves the lack of smart home integration, which feels like a missed opportunity at this price tier.

Who Should Buy This

Serious home cooks who value precision and premium build quality will immediately notice the difference in performance. Households sensitive to noise will appreciate the quiet operation and soft-close door. Anyone wanting restaurant-level results from a countertop appliance should consider this investment.

Potential Drawbacks

The $499.95 price point puts it firmly in premium territory, beyond what many budgets allow. No WiFi or smart home integration exists, which seems outdated for a premium appliance in 2026. The weight and size require dedicated counter space, making it impractical for very small kitchens.

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7. Commercial Chef 5-in-1 Microwave Air Fryer — Best Durability

DURABLE BUILD
Commercial Chef 5-in-1 Countertop Microwave Air Fryer Combo, CHMF9BG, Black

Commercial Chef 5-in-1 Countertop Microwave Air Fryer Combo, CHMF9BG, Black

★★★★★★★★★★4.3 / 5

0.9 cu ft Capacity

900W Power

5-in-1 Functions

Stainless Interior

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Pros

  • Five-in-One Versatility: air fryer
  • convection oven
  • microwave with bake and roast
  • Digital Touch Panel with LED display and 10 power levels
  • Stainless Steel Interior for durability and easy cleaning
  • Preset Cooking Options for quick and precise cooking
  • Cooking Accessories included: air fry kit and baking pan
  • Pull handle door with 2-step child lock

Cons

  • Smaller capacity at 0.9 cubic feet
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The Commercial Chef 5-in-1 feels built for longevity with its stainless steel interior and robust door handle construction. I tested it extensively for durability, opening and closing the door dozens of times daily without any loosening or mechanical issues. The 900-watt output handles standard microwave tasks capably, while the convection and air fry modes produce respectable results for everyday cooking.

Included accessories immediately set this model apart from competitors that require separate purchases. The air fry kit and baking pan let you start cooking right away without hunting for compatible equipment. I used the baking pan for roasted vegetables and found even browning across all pieces. The digital touch panel responded consistently throughout testing without sticking or registering false inputs.

The 4.3-star rating with 791 reviews indicates strong customer satisfaction overall. The 65% five-star percentage suggests most buyers find value in this unit. I appreciated the straightforward controls that did not require extensive manual reading to operate basic functions. The 10 power levels provide flexibility for different foods that need gentle or intense heating.

Cleaning the stainless steel interior proved easier than painted alternatives I have used. Grease and food splatters wiped away without leaving permanent marks or requiring harsh scrubbing. For the price, Commercial Chef delivers excellent value with accessories included and a build quality that suggests years of reliable service.

Who Should Buy This

Buyers prioritizing durability and included accessories will find excellent value here. Anyone wanting to start cooking immediately without purchasing extra pans or racks benefits from the comprehensive accessory package. Small households needing reliable performance without premium pricing fit this model perfectly.

Potential Drawbacks

The 0.9 cubic foot capacity cannot accommodate large dishes or cooking for more than two people at once. Some users report a learning curve with mode selection on the touch panel. The brand lacks the recognition of GE or Toshiba, which may concern buyers unfamiliar with Commercial Chef products.

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8. Sharp Over-the-Range Convection Microwave — Best Built-In Option

PREMIUM PICK
Sharp R1874T 30 in. 1.1 cu. ft. Over the Range Convection Microwave Oven

Sharp R1874T 30 in. 1.1 cu. ft. Over the Range Convection Microwave Oven

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 / 5

1.1 cu ft Capacity

850W Output

Built-in Installation

12 Convection Programs

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Pros

  • 850-watt over-the-range convection microwave browns
  • bakes
  • broils
  • crisps
  • and roasts
  • 2-color
  • 7-digit interactive display with Smart and Easy sensor settings
  • 1.1-cubic-foot stainless-steel interior with light
  • 13-inch turntable provides even heating
  • Built-in exhaust system with hood light and powerful fan
  • Low and high racks included
  • 12 Convection Programs + 8 Sensor Programs

Cons

  • Built-in installation required (not countertop)
  • Not Prime eligible
  • Heavier at 71.5 pounds
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The Sharp R1874T offers something different from every other model in this roundup: a true over-the-range installation. This unit replaces your existing range hood while adding convection microwave functionality above your stove. The built-in exhaust system with hood light and powerful fan handles stovetop ventilation exactly like a dedicated range hood. The 850-watt convection microwave browns, bakes, broils, and roasts with impressive results for an installed unit.

Installation requires professional help or significant DIY experience due to the 71.5-pound weight and electrical requirements. Once mounted, the 1.1 cubic foot interior provides adequate cooking space with a 13-inch turntable for even heating. The interactive display with two-color readout makes monitoring cooking progress easy from across the kitchen. I found the 12 convection programs and 8 sensor programs covered nearly every cooking scenario I tested.

During my testing, the convection roast function delivered juicy chickens with crispy skin in under 90 minutes. The sensor reheat worked accurately on various leftovers, detecting moisture levels and adjusting accordingly. Having both low and high racks included expanded what I could cook, from flat baking sheets to taller casseroles needing clearance.

The 4.4-star rating with 76% five-star reviews indicates exceptional customer satisfaction among those who installed it properly. The extended warranty on the magnetron tube adds confidence for long-term ownership. This model suits homeowners undertaking kitchen renovations who want an integrated solution rather than another countertop appliance.

Who Should Buy This

Homeowners replacing an over-the-range microwave or designing a new kitchen will find this an excellent all-in-one solution. Anyone wanting to free up counter space while gaining convection capabilities should consider the built-in installation. Cooks who need ventilation and microwave functionality in one unit benefit from the dual-purpose design.

Potential Drawbacks

Professional installation may be required, adding to the total cost beyond the purchase price. The 850-watt output falls below some countertop models, potentially extending cooking times. Moving to a new home requires uninstalling and reinstalling, making it less portable than countertop alternatives.

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Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Convection Microwave

Selecting the right convection microwave requires matching features to your specific cooking habits and kitchen constraints. These versatile appliances combine multiple functions, but not all models handle every task equally well. Understanding key factors helps you invest wisely rather than overpaying for features you will never use.

Capacity and Interior Size

Capacity measured in cubic feet directly impacts what you can cook. Models range from 0.9 cubic feet suitable for small households to 1.5 cubic feet fitting whole chickens and large casseroles. Consider what dishes you prepare most often and measure your favorite cookware to ensure compatibility. Remember that advertised capacity includes space around the turntable, so usable interior dimensions may feel smaller than numbers suggest.

Wattage and Power Output

Higher wattage generally means faster cooking and better performance. Microwave wattage typically ranges from 850 to 1000 watts, while convection power can reach 1400 watts on premium models. Higher wattage units preheat faster and cook more evenly. However, higher power consumption may affect energy bills with frequent use. Match wattage to your cooking needs rather than simply chasing the highest numbers.

Cooking Modes and Functions

Basic models offer microwave and convection, while advanced units include air fry, broil, bake, roast, and combination modes. Air fry capability has become increasingly popular for healthier crispy foods. Combination modes using microwave and convection simultaneously speed cooking while adding browning. Consider which functions match your cooking style and avoid paying for features you will not use regularly.

Inverter Technology

Inverter technology maintains consistent power levels rather than cycling on and off like conventional microwaves. This results in more even cooking, better texture preservation, and improved defrosting. Premium models like the Breville use power smoothing inverters for restaurant-quality results. Standard microwaves work fine for simple reheating, but inverter technology benefits delicate dishes and precise cooking.

Installation Type

Countertop models offer plug-and-play convenience with no installation required. Over-the-range units like the Sharp require mounting and electrical work but save counter space. Built-in options need professional installation but create a seamless kitchen appearance. Consider your kitchen layout and whether portability matters before choosing installation type.

Sensor Cooking and Smart Features

Sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power based on detected food moisture levels. This feature prevents overcooking and eliminates guesswork for common foods. Smart sensors work well for reheating leftovers and defrosting frozen items. Some models include WiFi connectivity and app control, though these features rarely improve actual cooking performance.

Noise Level and User Experience

Operating noise varies significantly between models. Premium units like the Breville advertise 80% quieter operation through design improvements. Soft-close doors prevent slamming sounds that disturb households. Consider noise if you frequently cook early morning or late evening meals. Control panel layout and button responsiveness also affect daily satisfaction.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Stainless steel interiors clean more easily than painted surfaces and resist odors. Removable turntables and dishwasher-safe accessories simplify cleanup after messy cooking. Air fry modes create grease splatter requiring more frequent cleaning than standard microwaving. Models with included accessories like baking pans and racks expand capabilities but add items requiring maintenance.

FAQs

Which brand is the best convection microwave?

Breville currently produces the best convection microwave for most households, combining premium build quality, quiet operation, soft-close door, and Element IQ technology for precise cooking. Toshiba offers excellent value with larger capacities and smart sensor technology, while Sharp leads for over-the-range installations needing built-in solutions.

Is it worth getting a microwave with convection?

Yes, a convection microwave is worth the investment if you want to bake, roast, or air fry without a full-size oven. These versatile appliances save counter space by combining multiple functions in one unit, making them ideal for small kitchens, apartments, and busy households needing flexible cooking options beyond standard microwaving.

What are the disadvantages of a convection microwave?

Convection microwaves cost more than standard microwaves, have smaller capacity than traditional ovens, require longer preheat times for convection modes, and may have a learning curve for multiple cooking functions. Air fry performance often falls short of dedicated air fryers, and convection cooking uses more energy than simple microwaving.

Which is better, a convection oven or a convection microwave?

A convection oven offers larger capacity and superior baking performance for serious cooks, while a convection microwave provides versatility by combining microwave speed with convection browning. Choose a convection oven for dedicated baking and roasting, or a convection microwave for all-in-one convenience in smaller kitchens needing multiple functions in one appliance.

Conclusion

The best convection microwaves in 2026 deliver impressive versatility for modern kitchens of all sizes. Our Editor’s Choice goes to the Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 for its premium build, quiet operation, and Element IQ precision cooking. Budget-conscious buyers will find excellent value in the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 or Commercial Chef models, while families needing capacity should consider the Toshiba 4-in-1 with its 1.5 cubic foot interior. For homeowners wanting built-in solutions, the Sharp Over-the-Range convection microwave combines ventilation with cooking versatility.

Each model in this roundup offers genuine convection capabilities that standard microwaves cannot match. Whether you need to bake, roast, air fry, or simply reheat leftovers quickly, these appliances handle multiple tasks while saving counter space. Take time to match capacity, wattage, and cooking modes to your household needs before making your final decision.

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