A convection microwave oven combines a regular convection oven with a microwave, which saves both counter space and money.
From steaming veggies and making popcorn to crisping bacons and roasting an entire chicken, a simple convection microwave oven can do it all.
Having said that, picking the right convection microwave oven is no easy task; there are dozens of selections from many different brands to choose from.
Thus, this brings us to our topic of discussion: Which convection microwave oven is the best for you? Listed below are our top picks and reviews for the best convection microwave ovens, from over-the-range to countertop ones.
My Tako Cheena earns a commission from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. That does not change which models are compared or what we say about them.
The 8 Microwaves We Compared
| Model | Capacity | Wattage | Dimensions (H x W x D) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Panasonic NN-SD372S | 0.8 Cu. Ft. | 950W | 11 x 19-3/16 x 14-13/16 in |
| Frigidaire FFMV1846VS | 1.8 Cu. Ft. | 1000W | 15.62 x 29.87 x 15.75 in |
| AmazonBasics 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave | 0.7 Cu. Ft. | 700W | 10.1 x 17.3 x 14.1 in |
| Toshiba EM131A5C-BS | 1.2 Cu. Ft. | 1100W | 12.8 x 20.5 x 17.1 in |
| Panasonic NN-SN966S | 1.8 Cu. Ft. | 1250W | 14 x 23.9 x 19.4 in |
| GE Profile PEM31SFSS | 1.1 Cu. Ft. | 800W | 12.13 x 24 x 12.88 in |
| BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave | 0.9 Cu. Ft. | 900W | 11.5 x 19.1 x 14.8 in |
| Panasonic NN-SD975S | 2.2 Cu. Ft. | 1250W | 14 x 23.88 x 19.44 in |
With a tape measure in hand, start by checking the space around the cabinet, counter, or range opening, not just the width.
Depth and door swing can decide whether a microwave feels built-in and comfortable or awkward every time you use it.
Then match size to cooking habits. Smaller units suit tight apartments and quick reheats, while larger cavities make more sense for dinner plates, casseroles, and shared kitchens.
Wattage helps set expectations for speed, but the best fit is the one that physically works in your space.
How Each Model Performs
1. Panasonic NN-SD372S
| Design | Inverter |
|---|---|
| Controls | Dial |
| Capacity | 0.8 Cu. Ft. |
| Wattage | 950W |
| Dimension (H x W x D) | 11 x 19-3/16 x 14-13/16 inch |
Key Functions
- Inverter technology with turbo defrost
- Compact design but powerful (up to 950W)
- Smart cooking with genius sensors automatically adjusts power and time depending on the food
- Keep warm feature
Are you thinking of buying the best microwave with convection? Here is your answer. When it comes to family appliances, the well-known manufacturer Panasonics is no slouch.
The company has long been trusted in providing the best kind of household products over the years and that still holds true for the Microwave Oven NN-SD372S.
The Microwave Oven NN-SD372S is one of the best convection microwave ovens, offering power and versatility while coming in at only 0.8 cubic feet.
The auto cook function offers a variety of options, ranging from frozen entrees and vegetables to pizza and pasta.
Considering its capabilities, the NN-SD372S does not consume that much power to operate, not to mention, the model is 8 pounds lighter than most other common microwaves available on the market.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| User-friendly and easy to operate | Keypad does not light up so it could be hard to navigate in the dark |
| Comes in various features and functions | Exterior surface is prone to finger and palm prints |
| Built in a modern design that guarantees to fit most kitchens |
Conclusion
The modern and compact design of the Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SD372S takes up much less space in the kitchen counter while at the same time, providing more capacity for your food at 0.8 cubic feet.
With the 11.25-inch turntable, the model will accommodate any sort of meals and snacks you might throw at it. It is, definitely an attractive choice when it comes to the best convection microwave oven.
2. Frigidaire FFMV1846VS
| Design | Inverter |
|---|---|
| Controls | Keypad |
| Capacity | 1.8 Cu. Ft. |
| Wattage | 1000W |
| Dimension (H x W x D) | 15.62 x 29.87 x 15.75 inch |
Key Functions
- Over-the-range microwave can be mounted on the cabinet
- User-friendly design with 1-touch quick cook for 1, 2, or 3 minutes
- 1-touch button to add 10 or 30 seconds
- Built-in 2-speed ventilating system to remove smoke, steam, and odors
Unlike the other convection microwave ovens listed on the list of the best convection microwave ovens, this model FFMV1846VS from Frigidaire is an over-the-range model. It features a large but sleek and modern design.
The microwave includes quite remarkable convenient options such as Auto-Reheat and One-Touch so that you can warm up any meal with just a single press of a button.
In addition, thanks to the smart ventilation system, capable of pumping 300 cu. Ft.
of air per minute, the air in the kitchen area can circulate better.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Metal mesh filters on the underside of the microwave are removable and dishwasher safe, making the cleaning process much easier than ever before | Issue about warranty service reported by a few customers |
| Child-lock to ensure the safety of your children, so it is very suitable for couples with young kids | |
| Beeper can be turned off | |
| Zero-clearance door that opens to a 90-degree angle | |
| Better cooktop visibility with LED lighting |
Conclusion
The reason why this over-the-range model from Frigidaire makes on to this list is because of the values it offers.
Not only does it features all the functions that you may look for when considering buying the best convection microwave ovens, but it also plays a role of a decent ventilation system.
3. AmazonBasics 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave
| Design | N/A |
|---|---|
| Controls | Voice via Echo device (not included) and keypad |
| Capacity | 0.7 Cu. Ft. |
| Wattage | 700W |
| Dimension (H x W x D) | 10.1 x 17.3 x 14.1 inch |
Key Functions
- With an Echo device (not included), quick cook voice pre-sets and simplified keypad lets you ask Alexa to start microwaving
- Alexa’s continuous updates with new pre-sets
The AmazonBasics Microwave has all what you would expect from a well-rounded microwave. From a kitchen timer and child lock to 10-level power and turntable, you can cook all kinds of food.
The microwave features an add 30 seconds button, and 3 pre-sets for popcorn, timed defrost and weight defrost.
Plus, the microwave includes an Ask Alexa button that when pressed, will wake up your paired Echo (not included) and the rest can be controlled by your voice. That is why it is considered one of the best convection microwave ovens.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Alexa compatibility allows seamless voice control | Only suitable for warming coffee cups, making popcorn and small dishes in general due to its size and wattage |
| Excellent support and updates from Amazon | Users reported of uneven heated food |
| Without connecting to an Alexa-enabled device, features on standalone unit are limited |
Conclusion
The AmazonBasics Microwave offers a new and innovating way of using a microwave. With just a push of a button, you can simply tell it to warm up your cup of coffee or set a cook time for your food.
4. Toshiba EM131A5C-BS
| Design | Inverter |
|---|---|
| Controls | Keypad |
| Capacity | 1.2 Cu. Ft. |
| Wattage | 1100W |
| Dimension (H x W x D) | 12.8 x 20.5 x 17.1 inch |
Key Functions
- Pre-programmed sensor menu for optimum heating
- 1-touch start popcorn
- 2 defrost settings, including custom and 1-pound auto defrost
According to best convection microwave oven reviews, the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS microwave oven features automatic sensor function that aids in the cooking process.
This built-in sensor detects the humidity level of the food and then adjust the time and temperature accordingly. With such a function, the microwave has secured itself a position in one of the best convection microwave ovens.
In addition, the EM131A5C-BS includes several other useful functions like the custom/1-pound auto defrost for frozen meat and the soften/melt function for those buttery and chocolaty dishes.
Finally, to round it all up, cleaning the microwave oven has never been simpler thanks to the easy-to-clean coating interior.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Large turntable at 12.4 inches in diameter | A little loud when operating |
| Large display with easy-to-read control panel | |
| Classy and modern black stainless-steel design |
Conclusion
The Toshiba EM131A5C-BS microwave oven is ideal for apartment kitchens or office break rooms.
With up to 3 programmable favorite time and power settings as well as 6 one-touch buttons to cook popular food items, this microwave is well-positioned on the market as one of the best convection microwave ovens.
5. Panasonic NN-SN966S
| Design | Inverter |
|---|---|
| Controls | Keypad or Dial |
| Capacity | 1.8 Cu. Ft. |
| Wattage | 1250W |
| Dimension (H x W x D) | 14 x 23.9 x 19.4 inch |
Key Functions
- Inverter technology with turbo defrost to speed up defrosting time
- Smart cooking with genius sensors automatically adjusts power and time depending on the food
- Keep warm feature
Among the models compared here, the Panasonic NN-SN966S should not be overlooked. It is able to deliver a continuous stream of power to evenly cook and provide delicious flavors.
The microwave also features 14 auto cook options for those popular dishes such as frozen entrees, soup, pizza, and pasta.
Additionally, it comes in a modern and high-end design with intelligent and intuitive controls. The state-of-the-art Turbo defrost function thaws food quickly and evenly.
Not to mention the Keep warm feature that will keep the food warm and delicious in the oven until served. At such a big size and with numerous functions, the 1250W required power is to be expected.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Large family size with turntable at 16.5 inches in diameter | The stainless-steel door button and handle are prone to fingerprints |
| Child safety lock | Users reported steam/condensation appeared inside the time display |
| 14 pre-sets menu items | To open the door, you must first unlock and then open it |
Conclusion
The Panasonic NN-SN966S Microwave Oven comes with a variety of features that will help you conveniently and easily make delicious recipes a reality.
Despite its hefty size, the microwave is very intuitive and user-friendly, even first-timers will not have any trouble using it at all.
Therefore, if you are thinking about purchasing one among the best convection microwave ovens, it surely should be the ideal choice.
6. GE Profile PEM31SFSS
| Design | N/A |
|---|---|
| Controls | Keypad |
| Capacity | 1.1 Cu. Ft. |
| Wattage | 800W |
| Dimension (H x W x D) | 12.13 x 24 x 12.88 |
Key Functions
- Touch controls
- Turntable on/off feature
- 10 cooking levels for boiling, reheating, and defrosting
The GE Profile PEM31SFSS features sensor controls to adjust cooking power and time.
With Weight and Time Defrost, you can simply enter the weight of the food and the microwave will take over and do the rest, from automatically set the defrosting time to calibrating the optimal power level.
Not only does the GE Profile pack a ton of state-of-the-art features, it also sports a bold and modern look. This microwave is the perfect combination of innovation and style, and thus well deserved a place in your kitchen.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Contemporary design | Despite the premium price point, some users reported that the door of the unit seemed to be too light and cheap |
| Turntable can be turned off for those oversized dishes | Keypad requires a bit more force to register a press |
| Option to include built-in trim kit that provides a more customized appearance and convenience. |
Conclusion
As one of the best convection microwave ovens out there, the GE Profile sure makes a name for itself thanks to its multiple features and simple design approach.
While being more costly than most of the convection microwave ovens mentioned in this list, the technologies and profile of this GE product will turn any kitchen into a piece of art.
7. BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave
| Design | N/A |
|---|---|
| Controls | Keypad |
| Capacity | 0.9 Cu. Ft. |
| Wattage | 900W |
| Dimension (H x W x D) | 11.5 x 19.1 x 14.8 inch |
Key Functions
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, pizza, and other popular dishes
- 10 power settings
- 30-second express cooking
The Digital Microwave Oven from Black+Decker features 10 power levels with removable glass turntable and spacious interior. The microwave also includes several one-touch cooking buttons for 6 of the most popular food items.
Additionally, with the large LED digital display and easy-to-read control panel, even new users will not have a hard time finding their ways through.
Finally, with the Express Cook function, the microwave can be turned on for 1 to 6 minutes at 100 percent power by simply touching the number pad.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Large LED display | Loud and excessive rings after completing cooking time |
| Intuitive control panel | Some users reported that the power of this model was not as good as expected |
| Push-button door release for easy access | |
| Child safety lock |
Conclusion
With such a sleek stainless-steel design, this Black+Decker Digital Microwave Oven will turn any kitchen into a professional one. Considering what it offers, this model sits at the affordable end of the range.
It reads as the runner-up among the models compared here.
8. Panasonic NN-SD975S
| Design | Cyclonic Inverter |
|---|---|
| Controls | Dial or Keypad |
| Capacity | 2.2 Cu. Ft. |
| Wattage | 1250W |
| Dimension (H x W x D) | 14 x 23.88 x 19.44 inch |
Key Functions
- Cyclonic wave circulates heat more efficiently, allowing versatile food preparation
- 20 pre-sets cook menu items
- Inverter turbo defrost
- Keep warm feature
Once again, the name Panasonic appears on our list of the best convection microwave ovens and there are reasons as to why this is the case.
Panasonic microwaves have long been famous for their power and precision in providing fresh and healthy meals automatically. With this NN-SD975S model, it is safe to say that the story is still the same.
Considered the biggest model among the three mentioned in our list, the NN-SD975S is the perfect fit for friend and family gatherings thanks to its size at 2.2 Cu. Ft. and its 16.5-inch turntable.
The intelligent design allocates less space for electronics and more for interior capacity.
With the addition of Cyclonic wave and inverter technology, the microwave is able to circulate heat better, retaining more texture and nutrients of the food.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Smaller footprint compared to those microwaves of the same capacity | Small number of users reported that this model would break down after 1 – 2 years |
| Child safety lock | |
| Up to 8 pounds lighter than conventional microwave ovens | |
| 1-touch Genius sensor |
Conclusion
As a countertop microwave, the Panasonic NN-SD975S can rest on any open surface in the kitchen.
It delivers a seamless stream of power at every temperature for more evenly cooked meals while allowing delicate food like fish or vegetables to simmer without being overcooked.
All these features explain why it is listed one of the best convection microwave ovens available on the market.
What to Check Before You Buy
Before heading out and actually getting your best convection microwave oven, it is always good to do some research in advance. It does not hurt to be a little prepared and well informed about your purchase.
Check out the buying guides below and hopefully you will be able to pick out the best convection microwave oven for yourself.
1. Size
When you buy a convection microwave oven, size is probably one of the first things that comes to your mind.
Depending on how much space is free in your kitchen cabinet, especially when there has already been a premade oven space, your selections can vary quite a bit.
Microwaves are typically measured in cubic feet so make sure you take accurate measurements!
2. Installation/Setup
As mentioned above, you should consider the type of convection microwave oven that you are getting, over-the-range or countertop.
If you are planning to mount it on the cabinet, in addition to the size of the available space, it is important to consider whether the cabinet can handle the weight of the microwave.
In some cases, we would even recommend hiring a professional to set up the installation properly.
By doing so, you can maximize the use of your best convection microwave oven
Turntable or Flatbed
When it comes to convection microwave oven, there are two variations: turntable and flatbed.
Those with turntables use a platform that rotates during the cooking process to ensure even cooking.
In addition, these platforms are removable, allowing an easier cleaning procedure.
On the other hand, those with flatbeds, while not having a rotating platform, make use of another form of heating technology to cook the food evenly.
More often than not, flatbed microwaves provide more cooking space compared to their turntable counterparts.
Having said that, flatbed convection microwave ovens are more costly than the turntable ones.
4. Pre-set functions/Features
Pre-set functions are standards to make cooking more convenient and easier.
From defrosting, reheating to roasting or even baking, these functions make it possible for you to enjoy your cooking time, even for those who are always in a hurry.
Before making your purchase, you should check the features of the microwave to see if it is able to cook your favorite meals.
5. The “Add 30 seconds” button
There is a reason why the button has its own section. Although this may sound trivial, it makes a big difference.
With the “Add 30 seconds” button, you will be able to quickly start or add more time without the need of going through a sequence of other buttons.
6. Child lock system
If you do have young children running around your place, a child lock system might be one of the top recommended features to have. This safety aspect will prevent the kids from operating the microwave without you supervising.
Smart Sensors
If you want to take the guesswork out of figuring out the required time to heat your food, getting a model with smart sensors is probably the best thing to do.
With the sensors, the microwave can adjust the time and power level by automatically assessing the heat in your food.
8. Wattage
Last but certainly not least, you should also consider convection microwave’s power output/wattage. Depending on the size of the microwave, its wattage can range from 650W to 1950W.
The higher that power, the lesser the time you have to wait for your food.
However, this all comes down to the purpose you use the microwave. If you cook a lot, it is better to get a higher wattage microwave.
If reheating food is your primary use, you are better off getting those with wattage at the lower end of the spectrum.
The US Food and Drug Administration publishes the federal safety standard that every microwave oven sold in the United States has to meet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose a convection microwave oven?
Typical convection microwave ovens come with fans that helps circulate hot air inside the chamber. Thanks to such a design, the cooking process can be faster while the food is cooked more evenly, roasted better, and crispier.
Therefore, undoubtedly, So if you would like the best convection microwave oven, yours must be a microwave with convection.
What wattage do convection microwaves use?
Wattage, also known as watt, indicates the power output that the microwave can generate. The higher the number, the more power and the faster the microwave cooks your food.
How do you clean a convection microwave?
Since you use the microwave almost everyday, it is crucial to have it cleaned regularly. And thankfully, cleaning one is very easy.
All you need is some water, vinegar, a microwavable bowl, and a paper towel.
First, you mix 1 cup of water with a tablespoon of vinegar into the bowl and microwave it until the solution starts boiling.
By then, some of the mixture will have evaporated, keeping it nice and steamy inside. Next, you remove the bowl and wait for the microwave to cool off before wiping it with a paper towel.
As for the turntable, you can wash it normally like any other dishes.
Finally, we move on to the exterior of the microwave. You can use a piece of wet wipes to clean it but make sure that you avoid the venting system.
What are the drawbacks of a convection microwave?
As perfect as they may be, microwave convection ovens do have their own flaw; they are not always the best option for your cooking needs, especially when it comes to baking.
This is the pitfall of a microwave convection oven.
Fundamentally, it is not designed for dishes with delicate recipes. This includes breads, cakes, and other pastries.
So While circulating hot air is good in most cases, the method will more than likely stop the dough from rising correctly, leaving behind a flat and dense batch of inedible cupcakes.
How We Chose These Models
We chose these convection microwave ovens by comparing published specifications, manufacturer documentation, retailer listings, and reported owner experience.
We do not run a test lab, so this roundup should be read as a practical buying comparison, not a set of first-hand performance results.
Our first filter was fit.
We looked at capacity, wattage, dimensions, and installation style because those details decide whether a microwave belongs in a small apartment kitchen, a family kitchen, or an over-the-range setup.
What We Compared
- Capacity: We compared interior size so readers can separate compact models from larger ovens suited to bigger plates, casseroles, or family portions.
- Wattage: We used listed power ratings as a guide to cooking speed, while noting that wattage alone does not tell the whole story.
- Dimensions: We checked height, width, and depth to help match each model to real counter space, cabinet openings, or range areas.
- Cooking features: We considered convection cooking, inverter technology, sensor cooking, defrost modes, keep-warm settings, and other functions described by the manufacturer.
- Owner feedback: We looked for repeated patterns in reported owner experience, including ease of use, noise, cleaning, durability concerns, and control layout.
We also avoid overstating small differences.
If two models are close in size, power, or feature set, we say so plainly instead of pretending one minor specification makes a clear winner.
Finally, we considered overall usefulness for common kitchen needs: reheating, defrosting, crisping, baking, and saving space.
The goal is to help you narrow the list before reading the individual model reviews.
What Size Convection Microwave Do You Need?
Size is one of the easiest ways to narrow a convection microwave shortlist. Start with where it will live, then match the capacity to the way you actually cook.
A compact countertop model is usually enough for reheating plates, steaming vegetables, popcorn, and smaller frozen meals.
A larger unit makes more sense if you want to roast a chicken, bake in batches, or replace some regular oven use.
Small Kitchens And Light Use
For apartments, dorm-style spaces, and tight counters, look at models around 0.7 to 0.9 cubic feet. These take up less room and are easier to fit under cabinets or beside other small appliances.
- Best fit: snacks, drinks, leftovers, and single portions.
- Watch for: dinner plate clearance and turntable size.
- Examples from this roundup: AmazonBasics 0.7 Cu. Ft., Panasonic NN-SD372S, and BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave.
Everyday Family Cooking
For most households, 1.1 to 1.8 cubic feet is the practical middle ground. This size range gives you more room for casseroles, larger plates, and convection cooking without jumping to the biggest footprint.
- Best fit: family leftovers, frozen entrees, vegetables, and mixed microwave-convection use.
- Watch for: exterior depth, especially on shallow counters.
- Examples from this roundup: Toshiba EM131A5C-BS, GE Profile PEM31SFSS, Frigidaire FFMV1846VS, and Panasonic NN-SN966S.
Large Capacity Needs
If you regularly cook bulky dishes, choose the largest capacity you can fit safely. Around 2.2 cubic feet gives the most interior room, but it also needs more counter or cabinet space.
- Best fit: larger cookware, bigger households, and oven-style convection tasks.
- Watch for: ventilation clearance, door swing, and total depth.
- Example from this roundup: Panasonic NN-SD975S.
What Does a Convection Microwave Cost to Run?
A convection microwave is usually inexpensive to run because it heats a small cavity and often cooks faster than a full-size oven.
Your actual cost depends on wattage, cooking time, utility rate, and whether you use microwave, convection, or combination cooking.
The models in this roundup range from 700W to 1250W, so power draw can vary noticeably. A higher-wattage unit may use more electricity per minute, but it can also finish some microwave tasks faster.
How to Estimate Running Cost
Use this simple calculation to compare any model on your shortlist:
- Find the wattage: for example, 700W, 950W, 1100W, or 1250W from the product specs.
- Convert to kilowatts: divide watts by 1,000.
- Estimate cooking time: use hours, not minutes. Fifteen minutes is 0.25 hours.
- Multiply by your electricity rate: check your utility bill for cost per kilowatt-hour.
For example, a 1000W microwave running for 15 minutes uses about 0.25 kWh before accounting for efficiency and cycling. Multiply that by your local electricity rate to get a rough per-use cost.
What Affects the Bill Most?
- Cooking mode: convection cooking usually runs longer than basic reheating.
- Food size: roasting a chicken costs more than warming leftovers.
- Preheating: some convection settings require extra time before cooking starts.
- Household use: daily meal prep adds up more than occasional popcorn or defrosting.
In most kitchens, the bigger savings come from using a convection microwave instead of heating a large oven for small meals.
For frequent cooking, compare wattage alongside capacity so the appliance fits both your food and your energy habits.
The Bottom Line
The best convection microwave oven for you depends less on one universal winner and more on where it will live, how much food you cook at once, and which trade-offs you can accept.
Based on the published specifications and reported owner experience compared in this guide, the Panasonic NN-SD372S is the strongest fit for shoppers who want a compact countertop model with more cooking flexibility than a basic microwave.
Its 0.8 cubic foot capacity, 950W output, inverter technology, and sensor cooking make it a practical pick for small kitchens, apartments, dorm-style spaces, or anyone who reheats and cooks modest portions.
The Frigidaire FFMV1846VS is the better match if you specifically need an over-the-range convection microwave.
Its 1.8 cubic foot capacity, 1000W power, cooktop lighting, child lock, and built-in ventilation make it useful for households that want to free up counter space and combine microwave cooking with range hood functions.
For larger families or anyone who regularly heats bigger dishes, the higher-capacity Panasonic models in the comparison are worth considering, especially if wattage and interior space matter more than saving counter space.
Budget-focused shoppers should look closely at the smaller, lower-wattage options, but should expect slower cooking and fewer advanced features.
Before buying, confirm the dimensions, clearance, outlet location, ventilation needs, and whether the controls are easy enough for your daily routine.
