7 Best Convection Microwaves of 2025

This compact powerhouse redefines versatility in small kitchens, packing five cooking modes—microwave, air fry, combi, bake, and roast—into a space-saving design. With 900 watts of microwave power and 11 preset air fry menus, it excels at turning frozen nuggets into golden, crispy bites or roasting vegetables without the need for a full oven. For apartment dwellers or culinary minimalists, this BLACK+DECKER model eliminates appliance clutter while tackling everyday meals with surprising confidence.

In real-world testing, the microwave function heats evenly for its class, though larger portions require rotation due to the 0.9 cu. ft. cavity and lack of inverter tech. The air fry performance stands out—crisping fries and chicken wings efficiently without preheating—thanks to focused convection heat. However, baking dense items like casseroles reveals slight browning inconsistencies, and the combi mode could use more precise timing controls. Still, for quick lunches or after-school snacks, it delivers fast, fuss-free results with intuitive button navigation.

Compared to higher-end models like the TOSHIBA OptiChef, this BLACK+DECKER sacrifices smart features and capacity but wins on value-driven functionality. It’s ideal for singles, couples, or dorm setups needing an all-in-one solution without complexity. While it doesn’t match the browning depth of a dedicated air fryer, its balance of affordability, ease of use, and multi-functionality makes it a standout for budget-conscious buyers who still want convection flexibility.

If you’re feeding a family or regularly roast whole chickens, this spacious workhorse is built for real-life demands. Boasting a massive 1.5 cu. ft. interior and a 13.6-inch turntable, the Toshiba ML-EC42P(SS) comfortably fits a 12-inch pizza or a full poultry roast—something most compact combos simply can’t handle. Its 1000-watt microwave power pairs with convection and air fry modes to deliver restaurant-style crispness without sacrificing speed, making it a true centerpiece for busy weeknight dinners.

During testing, the smart sensor technology proved reliable, automatically adjusting cook times for frozen veggies or reheating lasagna without drying it out. The combination cooking mode—microwave plus convection—cuts down total prep time significantly, though it occasionally under-browns when used for thick cuts of meat. The removable turntable and stainless steel interior make cleanup a breeze, and the mute function is a thoughtful touch for late-night snacks. Still, the unit’s bulky footprint demands serious countertop real estate, limiting its appeal in smaller kitchens.

Next to the GE GCST10A1WSS, this Toshiba model trades portability for unmatched capacity and family-friendly features. It’s best suited for households of four or more who rely on microwave convenience but refuse to compromise on texture. While it lacks advanced inverter precision, its smart menus, large cavity, and dependable convection performance offer a compelling upgrade over basic models—especially when value is measured in meals served, not just features listed.

This culinary multitasker raises the bar with TOSHIBA’s ORIGIN Inverter Technology, delivering unmatched consistency in both defrosting and convection cooking. Unlike traditional microwaves that pulse power, this model maintains a steady energy flow, eliminating hot spots and ensuring chicken breasts stay juicy while fries turn uniformly crisp. With 1800W of total power, Speedy Combi modes, and six defrost presets, it caters to perfectionists who demand restaurant-quality results without guesswork.

In practical use, the 360° air circulation system shines—producing golden, oil-free fries and flaky roasted fish that rival deep-fried versions. The broil function adds a finishing sear to steaks or melts cheese on casseroles, while the combi-mode slashes cooking time by combining microwave speed with convection browning. However, the 11.3-inch turntable limits oversized dishes, and the interface, while functional, lacks the modern touch of a color display. Still, for home chefs tired of soggy leftovers or unevenly defrosted meat, this Toshiba delivers precision and texture in every cycle.

When stacked against the Chefman MicroCrisp, this Toshiba model offers superior evenness and quieter operation, thanks to its inverter and 50dB noise profile. It’s the go-to choice for users who prioritize consistent results over flashy design, especially those cooking delicate dishes or reheating meals for guests. Though pricier than entry-level options, its engineering, versatility, and quiet performance justify the investment for serious home cooks.

Designed for tight spaces without compromising power, the GE GCST10A1WSS is a compact convection champion that fits effortlessly on dorm shelves, office counters, or minimalist kitchens. Its 1.0 cu. ft. cavity and 1050-watt output deliver a rare balance—offering air fry crispness, convection browning, and broil searing in a footprint smaller than most full-sized microwaves. The elevated rack and crisper pan work in tandem to lift food into the airflow, producing remarkably crunchy results for such a petite unit.

Real-world tests show it excels at reheating pizza with a revived crust and air frying frozen nuggets to golden perfection in under 15 minutes. The broil mode adds a satisfying char to fish or vegetables, though it’s best for finishing rather than full cooking. While the glass turntable ensures even microwave heating, the lack of inverter tech means delicate defrosting can sometimes edge into partial cooking. Still, for students or urbanites with limited counter space, it’s a highly capable all-in-one that doesn’t sacrifice core functionality.

Compared to the FRIGIDAIRE budget model, this GE microwave offers better build quality, broil capability, and a more refined cooking experience. It’s tailored for individuals or couples who want maximum features in a minimal footprint. While it can’t match the capacity of larger Toshibas, its smart design, powerful output, and crisp results make it the top pick for compact convection performance.

Say goodbye to soggy leftovers—the Chefman MicroCrisp is engineered for crisp-first cooking, leveraging a dedicated convection crisper system that transforms microwave reheating into a texture-reviving experience. With 1800W of convection power and phase-cooking technology, it first heats food with microwave energy, then crisps the exterior using circulating hot air—perfect for reviving fried chicken or achieving golden fries straight from the freezer. The guided touchscreen interface simplifies operation, making it ideal for tech-wary users who still want pro-level results.

In testing, the two-stage cooking modes delivered impressively crispy outcomes, outperforming many competitors in browning consistency. The mute function and eco mode add thoughtful touches for noise-sensitive environments, and the dishwasher-safe turntable eases cleanup. However, the 0.8 cu. ft. capacity feels cramped for families, and the 900W microwave output lags behind higher-powered models when heating large dishes. It also lacks smart sensors or inverter tech, meaning manual adjustments are often needed for optimal results.

Against the BLACK+DECKER ES9P032NA, the Chefman stands out with superior crisp control and a more modern interface, though it sacrifices some preset convenience. It’s the best choice for texture-focused users—think crispy-skinned salmon lovers or snack enthusiasts—who prioritize crunch over capacity. While not the most versatile, its specialized crisping power and intuitive design make it a top contender for those tired of mushy microwave meals.

This AI-powered kitchen brain sets a new benchmark for smart convection microwaves, blending Origin Inverter Technology, humidity-sensing AI, and Alexa compatibility into a seamless, evolving cooking experience. The 2.4-inch color touchscreen isn’t just flashy—it simplifies complex tasks with visual guidance and cloud-updated recipes, while the ChefFry Plus system delivers crispy, oil-free results rivaling standalone air fryers. With 1.3 cu. ft. of space and 1100W output, it balances size and power for most households.

In real-world use, the AI-optimized sensor cooking adapts to food moisture levels, preventing overcooking and preserving juiciness—ideal for roasts or delicate fish. The Chef Defrost function thaws meat up to 40% faster while maintaining texture, a game-changer for last-minute dinners. Even the position memory turntable remembers where it stopped, eliminating rotation guesswork. However, the premium price tag and app dependency may deter low-tech users, and the interior lighting could be brighter for monitoring food.

Next to the TOSHIBA MASTER Series, this OptiChef offers smarter automation, larger capacity, and future-proof connectivity, making it the ultimate upgrade for tech-savvy cooks. It’s perfect for families or smart-home enthusiasts who want effortless, consistent results with minimal input. While it costs more than most, its AI integration, spacious cavity, and restaurant-grade performance position it as the best overall convection microwave for those who cook often and expect perfection.

For budget-focused buyers who still want serious cooking power, the FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu. ft. microwave is a value-packed performer that doesn’t skimp on essentials. With 1.2 cubic feet of space, it outpaces many compact models, fitting larger dishes while delivering 1500W of convection power for fast air frying and browning. The Combo-Fry mode intelligently merges microwave speed with convection crispness, making it a go-to for quick family meals like frozen dinners or roasted veggies—no oven required.

Testing revealed strong performance in reheating and air frying, with crispy results on fries and nuggets thanks to its robust heating system. The 10 power levels and smart presets make operation simple, and the stainless steel interior resists stains and wipes clean easily. However, the lack of inverter technology leads to uneven defrosting, and the basic control panel feels dated compared to touchscreen rivals. It also lacks advanced features like broil or smart sensors, limiting gourmet potential.

Compared to the BLACK+DECKER ES9P032NA, this Frigidaire offers more capacity and higher convection power at a lower price, making it the best budget-friendly option for families. It’s ideal for first-time buyers, college students, or secondary kitchens where reliability and size matter more than bells and whistles. While it won’t match premium models in precision, its raw power, XL cavity, and unbeatable price make it a smart entry point into convection cooking.