Best Microwave Convection Oven Combo Countertop

Microwave convection oven combos are an excellent option for those who want to cook quickly, efficiently, and with versatility. With the advancement of technology, these appliances have become increasingly popular, and many brands offer various models with different features. However, with so many options available, deciding which one to choose can take time and effort. Let’s check out some best microwave convection oven combo countertop.

If you are looking for a microwave convection oven combo countertop, we highly recommend NN-SD975S Cyclonic Wave Inverter-Equipped Panasonic Oven. This oven has a spacious interior, powerful cooking technology, and multiple cooking functions, making it a versatile and reliable choice. With its sleek design and easy-to-use interface, this microwave convection oven combo will make a great addition to any kitchen.

In this article, we will explore the features of five more products.

Best Microwave Convection Oven Combo Countertop: Top Picks at a Glance

• Panasonic Oven with Cyclonic Wave Inverter Technology: Equipped with advanced cyclonic wave technology, this oven cooks food evenly and quickly, saving time and ensuring delicious results every time.
• Panasonic NN-SD67LS Microwave Oven: With a large 1.2 cubic feet capacity and 1200 watts of power, this oven can cook or reheat food quickly and efficiently, making it a perfect addition to any kitchen.
• Toshiba Convection Oven with Air Fryer: This versatile oven offers four different cooking modes, including convection, air fry, microwave, and broil, providing a wide range of cooking options for any meal.
• Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fryer, Convection Bake: This innovative oven offers four different cooking options, including microwave, air fry, bake, and broil, providing endless cooking possibilities.
• Sharp SMC1585BB 1.5 Cu. Ft. 900W Convection Microwave Oven: This large-capacity oven features a convection cooking option, allowing for faster and more even cooking, making it perfect for busy households.

6 Best Microwave Convection Oven Combo

01- Panasonic Oven with Cyclonic Wave Inverter Technology

Product Features:

• Made of aluminum
• Weighs 36.8 lbs.
• Operates at 1250 watts
• It has a 2.2 cubic feet capacity.
• Comes with a LED display
• Has 20 preset menu cooking functions
• Comes with a child safety lock feature
• The manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty
• Has the Cyclonic Inverter Technology
• Has the Sensor Inverter Turbo Defrost
• Countertop installation

Product Description

Many convection combo countertop oven options exist, but the Panasonic NN-SD975S deserves its top spot in this guide. There are several features you’ll find remarkable with this model.

The Panasonic NN-SD975S has a brushed stainless steel design that goes well with contemporary or vintage-style kitchens. Its display also has a user-friendly design, so you won’t have trouble getting information on the temperature and timer.

We especially love the Cyclonic Inverter Technology and the Sensor Inverter Turbo Defrost settings regarding performance. Both functions help with preparing perfectly cooked and flavorful dishes. If you have many cooking ideas, the Panasonic NN-SD975S offers 20 preset menu options for more efficiency and convenience. 

With its spacious 2.2 cubic feet interior yet compact exterior, this model saves space on your countertop while allowing you to cook many dishes. 

Pros:

• Elegant design: It goes well with contemporary or vintage-style kitchens.
• Cyclonic Inverter Technology: This feature provides perfectly cooked and flavorful dishes daily. 
• Turbo defrost: This model lets you thaw your food more efficiently and evenly, 
• Keep warm function: You won’t have to worry about your dishes getting cold and losing flavor whenever your guests arrive late. 
• Space-saving design: Although it has a fairly large interior, the exterior doesn’t occupy much space on your countertop. Your kitchen won’t look cramped even with this addition.

Cons:

• Dial the feature keypad: The dial feature keypad is not a set of mechanical switches or touchpads. Some customers say they have difficulty getting used to it as it works like a dial pad on a cell phone. If you’re looking for a more user-friendly version, you might like the NN-SD67LS Panasonic Microwave Oven. This is especially helpful for first-time users or those wanting to finish things quickly.

02- Panasonic NN-SD67LS Microwave Oven

Product Features:

• Made of stainless steel
• Weighs 35.3 lbs.
• Operates at 1100 watts
• Has a 1.3 cubic feet capacity
• Comes with a LED display
• Has 10 preset menu cooking functions
• Comes with a child safety lock feature
• The manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty
• Has the Auto-Defrosting feature
• Has the Sensor Cooking feature
• Comes with the reheating function
• Comes with 3 power level options for cooking popcorn

Product Description

The Panasonic NN-SD67LS is a reliable 1100-watt, 1.3 cubic capacity countertop oven that lets you cook with 10 preset functions. Its dedicated control panel includes a 3-level popcorn setting, sensor cook, keep warm, and auto defrost feature. 

This compact yet powerful microwave convection oven has a sleek design that lets you save space on your countertop while preparing all your favorite dishes easily and quickly! The product’s auto-defrost function lets you set a time before cooking, so dinner will be served hot at the table. 

If you’re busy and looking to heat food instantly, you’ll love its hassle-free 30-second reheat feature. The Panasonic NN-SD67LS will help you with your heating needs with zero fuss. 

You can also rely on sensor cooking that automatically sets the right temperature to cook your food. With this, you won’t have to open the oven to check the temperature or the progress of your cooking.

Pros: 

• User-friendly: It’s easy enough for anyone in your family to use. You won’t have to worry about your children eating cold food when you’re away from home. 
• Easy-to-clean interior: You won’t have to worry about sticky messes on the oven interior as it’s coated with a non-stick material that lets you clean it in a breeze!
• Great display: This model features a bright digital display and easy-to-read control panels.
• Energy-Saving: The Panasonic NN-SD67LS lets you save 50% on energy costs. 

Cons:

• Issues on Electronic Dials. Some customers say that the electronic dial does not work correctly at times. 
• Uneven cooking. Although it comes with sensor cooking, many have experienced uneven cooking with the Panasonic NN-SD67LS. The NN-SD975S Cyclonic Wave Inverter-Equipped Panasonic Oven works better in ensuring even and flavorful cooking.

03- Toshiba Convection Oven with Air Fryer

Product Features:

• Made of metal
• Weighs 40.8 lbs.
• Available in black stainless steel color
• Operates at 1000 watts
• Countertop installation
• Has a 1 cubic foot capacity
• Comes with a LED display
• Has 13 preset menu cooking functions
• Comes with a child safety lock feature
• The manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty
• Has the One-touch popcorn feature
• Comes with the Multistage cooking function

Product Description:

If you want a multifunctional convection oven you can use as a grill, convection cooker, air fryer, and low-temperature cooker, the Toshiba ML2-EC10SA (BS) 4-in-1 microwave oven is your best bet! 

This 1000-watt microwave oven features a one cubic foot interior with 10 preset menus, perfect for simple home cooking! You can prepare everything from roasted chicken to dehydrated fruits. It has a four-in-one function, so it’s pretty versatile for a small model. 

The Toshiba ML2-EC10SA (BS) also has a unique mute function that lets you cook dishes without the annoying noises of convection fans. Thanks to Eco-Mode, you can help save 50% standby power. 

Its multifunctional features give you access to 10 preset menus, allowing you to cook conveniently without any delays during busy days.

Pros:

• Stylish design. If you love to keep your kitchen in style, the Toshiba ML2-EC10SA (BS) can complement your countertop with its sleek and compact design. 
• Fuss-free cleaning. This model uses rust and scratch-resistant stainless-steel interior, so you’ll have no problem removing those chunky residues left inside after cooking. 
• Versatile cooking. Whether to air fry, grill, microwave or cook a dish at a low temperature, the Toshiba ML2-EC10SA(BS) can help you.
• Great LED lighting. It features excellent lighting that lets you check on your dish easily without opening the door. 
• Easy controls. Many customers love how easy it seems to navigate the controls. Some users say getting used to the buttons only took two days. 

Cons:

• Slow oven heating. Some customers find the mode to heat up relatively slow. We recommend the Cyclonic Wave Inverter-Equipped Panasonic Oven to ensure flavorful and evenly cooked meals.

04- Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fryer, Convection Bake

Product Features:

• Made of stainless steel
• Weighs 39.1 lbs.
• Available in stainless steel color
• Operates at 1000 watts
• Countertop installation
• Has a 1.2 cubic feet capacity
• Temperatures range up to 425 F
• Comes with a LED display
• Comes with a child safety lock feature
• The manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty
• Has the One-touch popcorn feature
• Comes with the Healthy Air Fryer Mode function
• Comes with the FlashXpress Broiler function 

Product Description: 

The Panasonic HomeChef CD87KS is a countertop microwave, air fryer, broiler, and convection oven in one combo. You can use each function alone, use two simultaneously, or use them all. 

This multifunctional, 1.2 cubic feet convection oven combo features a healthy air fryer mode that quickly distributes heat around the food, producing crispy results without taking all the nutrients from your dish. You can use your convection oven for baking or roasting up to 425 degrees F with or without preheating. 

The product is energy efficient and operates at 1000 watts. Along with the great features mentioned, it also uses turbo defrost, sensor cook, and other dedicated settings for convenient cooking and preparation.

It also features an innovative and space-saving design for a large interior yet small exterior footprint. You can place it on your countertop, and you’ll still have room to do other chores. It makes a great addition to your kitchen space and enhances its appeal.

Pros:

• Easy-to-clean interior. With this product on board, you won’t need to worry about scratching the interior since it’s completely non-stick. 
• Versatile functions. It features four machines in one microwave oven. You can grill, air fry, broil, or bake even simultaneously.
• Comes with FlashXpress Broiler. This feature is excellent for toasting, browning, and crisping.
• Great heat circulation. Many customers are pleased with how fast this product circulates heat around the interior, producing evenly crisp results. 

Cons:

• Expensive. Compared to most appliance models, this convection oven costs relatively higher. We suggest the Panasonic Oven with Cyclonic Wave Inverter Technology if you’re looking for one that offers the same multifunctionality at a more affordable price. 
• Substandard control displays: Modern convection ovens have touchscreen buttons and sleek controls. Considering its hefty price tag, this model pales compared to other brands for this feature.

05- Sharp SMC1585BB 1.5 Cu. Ft. 900W Convection Microwave Oven

Product Features:

• Made of ceramic
• Weighs 60 lbs.
• Available in black color
• Operates at 900 watts
• Countertop installation
• Has a 1.5 cubic feet capacity
• Has 10 preset menu cooking functions
• Temperatures range from 100 to 450 F
• Comes with a white LED display
• Comes with a child safety lock feature
• The manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty
• Has the Auto Defrost feature
• Comes with the +60-Second Instant Start function
• Comes with Precise Cook Sensor Technology

Product Description:

The SMC1585BB Sharp Convection Microwave Oven for a mid-sized convection oven comes at a rather high price. Nonetheless, many customers are pleased with its smart features.

You can count on the convenience it offers. The Precise Cooking Sensor Technology takes the guesswork out of your cooking. You won’t have to risk letting the heat come out while opening the oven door to check on the progress of your dishes. It also has a +60-Second Instant Start, ideal for your busy days.

The product gives you the best microwave and convection oven functions. It’s perfect for baking, browning, and roasting. Its 900-watt motor allows for fast cooking and rapid heating. 

This model also has a quality ceramic turntable platter, and a stainless-steel interior allows easy cleaning. But perhaps, the most incredible plus of this appliance is its scratch-resistant glass doors that add to its sleek design.

Pros:

• ADA-compliant. Sharp ovens comply with the ADA, ensuring all controls and operating mechanisms are designed to give cooking access to people of various ages and disabilities. 
• User-friendly. Most customers are happy with how easy it is to access the controls of this product. 
• Compact exterior with a large capacity interior. Some also liked how compact yet versatile the model’s functions were. They loved how it saved space in the kitchen but still allowed them to cook any dishes they craved!

Cons:

• Flimsy door and hard-to-read buttons. Some customers say the doors tend to be flimsy, and some buttons are hard to read. 
• Heavy. With a 60-pound weight, this convection oven is not meant to be set inside your kitchen cabinet. 
• Expensive. You can buy alternatives with the same features, such as the Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fryer.

What to Look for When Choosing the Best Microwave Convection Oven Combo? 

There’s no doubt that convection ovens are more efficient than regular ones. But what must you look for when choosing the best microwave convection oven combo? Here are the top factors to consider when shopping for this useful kitchen appliance:

Even-Heat Circulation

The first thing you need to look for when choosing a microwave convection oven is even heat circulation. Some cook faster on one side, leading to uneven cooking and causing the food to taste bitter. Ensure your convection oven distributes heat evenly through the box for a flavorful and delicious meal each time you cook.

Faster Cooking

Some convection ovens can cook faster than others. This is ideal if you’re using it for your small fast-food business or on busy days at home during family gatherings.

Sensor Cooking

Sensor cooking is a relatively new function many countertop convection oven combos have. With this, you can work on your other tasks as the sensor will automatically adjust the time the oven will shut off when the food is finished cooking. Some brands even have a “defrost” function that allows you to thaw your food before popping it inside the oven.

Capacity

Another thing you should look for when buying is the capacity. Microwave convection ovens come in different interior sizes. They generally measure from four to six cubic feet, and the wattage can vary between 800 to 3000 watts. Ensure the model you buy can cook all the food you want to serve.

Durability

Why buy something you can only use one or two times? It’s best to settle for a kitchen appliance that can withstand the test of your cooking prowess and time. The best way to determine durability is by checking customer feedback, reviews, and buyer’s guide like this one. 

Safety Measures

Some convection ovens come with safety sensors. This function automatically adjusts cooking power to cook food without the risk of overheating. Another perk is that it turns off the appliance for you when it has become idle for a while.

Ease of Cleaning

Ease of cleaning is also vital. Some microwave ovens have detachable interiors and doors that are dishwasher-safe. Make sure to look for one that won’t take too much time to maintain and clean. 

Price 

Depending on the quality and features, this appliance typically costs between $100 to $500. So, make sure to consider the prices and features before choosing.

Key Considerations

When choosing the best microwave convection oven combo countertop, you must compare the options to determine which will satisfy your cooking needs. Here are the key considerations to take note of when buying one: 

True or Traditional Convection Oven

There are two types of convection ovens: true and traditional. The true convection oven is the “European” version, while the traditional one is the “American” variety. 

True Convection Oven: This type employs a third heating element installed before the fan. The added element helps stabilize the interior temperature, resulting in faster cooking time and better efficiency. 

Traditional Convection Oven: “American” convection ovens, on the other hand, are the regular radiant oven. This version has heating elements attached above and below the unit, with a convection fan circulating the warm air. 

Indirectly Fired or Directly Fired Convection Oven

Another consideration is whether you’ll need an indirectly or directly fired convection oven. 

Indirectly Fired: The food is heated indirectly, as the oven walls provide some insulation against heat loss. The advantage of this type of oven over a conventional countertop convection oven is that you don’t have to open the door to access the food. However, because an indirect route heats the food, the quality of the food may be negatively impacted.

Flip the oven on its side, and you have an example of indirect-fired cooking. This type of cooking is most often found in Asian countries, where the climate allows for the long, slow cooking of food over large, low-heat ranges. This cooking style is ideal for poultry, duck, lamb, and other foods that don’t need to be processed too quickly.

This technique has a slower startup and takes longer to heat. If you’re into baking cakes and cupcakes, this will be ideal as it provides a greater margin in case of errors.

Directly Fired: The key to this method is choosing a location for the burner with plenty of air circulation. You can place it in the corner or on the opposite side of the door. You should also make sure that there is a good connection between the burner and the controller. The controller should be placed on a circuit with a thermostat or connected to a heat sensor.

The most important rule is to use a temperature gauge to ensure the heat is distributed properly. The less air in the cavity, the less efficient the heat extraction.

Sizes & Variety

Countertop convection ovens also come in various sizes and varieties; the most typical ones you’ll encounter are the following: 

Half Size vs. Full Size: Half-size ovens are made to hold one or two 18″ x 13″ sheet pans, making them great for lower-volume cooking and their interiors. On the other hand, full-size ovens are made for large-volume operations and generally support five 18″ x 26″ sheet pans. 

Single Deck vs. Double Deck: Single-deck ovens are perfect for saving space in your kitchen but are not intended for commercial use. You’ll need a double-deck convection oven if you use it for your bakery or fast food. They’re bigger and can accommodate high output demands. 

Power Sources

Consider your convection oven’s power sources to save on utility expenses. Here are the typical ones: 

Natural Gas: This option is affordable but requires proper connectors and hookups. It heats quickly but needs an electrical connection to power the fan. 

Liquid Propane: Heats better than natural gas but can cost more depending on location. Just like natural gas, it also requires electricity. You’ll also need regulators, tanks, and gas lines. 

Pure Electric: With this option, you’ll have little-to-no installation prep. These types are the most accessible market but can lead to higher energy costs in the long run, especially if you use high-power models.

Overall Features 

Once you know what kind of countertop convection oven you need, it’s time to check the features. Not all convection ovens have the same functions, but some features are crucial to your cooking needs. Below are some of the must-have features for the best microwave convection oven combo countertop: 

Temperature Probe Function

Some models have a temperature probe attached to the side of the oven wall. This feature directly displays the temperature on the control panel. You won’t need to open the door to check your cooking manually, allowing you to monitor the temperature as your food cooks inside the oven easily. 

High Visibility Glass Doors

If you think models with temperature probes are expensive, the alternative is to look for high-visibility glass doors. It’s always best to avoid opening the oven doors as this will allow heat to escape, dropping the internal temperature and risking uneven cooking. That’s why glass doors are a crucial feature.

Timer and Delayed Start

Suppose you’ve ever set your timer and decided to watch a movie, only to miss your microwave oven buzzing long enough to smell your turkey burning. In that case, you’ll love an appliance that automatically turns off by it after the programmed cooking has lapsed. 

A delayed start can also be a valuable feature. If you want to mix that meatloaf before taking a relaxing bath but don’t want to heat your oven for an hour, this feature lets you delay the oven start until it’s more convenient. In other words, you can prepare the food in advance, pop it in the oven, and prompt it to start cooking when it’s almost mealtime! 

Sabbath Mode

Having a convection oven with a Sabbath mode can make your life easier. While this may sound like a religious rite, it’s just a “hold” feature that lets you keep your food warm in the oven for a long time. 

It works like those red lamps in restaurants that keep the dishes fresh until the server delivers them to your table. This feature can be a great lifesaver if you have prepared dinner earlier than the gathering. 

Dual Ovens

A dual feature lets you cook in two separate compartments. You can set them at different temperatures without the risk of burning the other dish. That means you can cook two plates at a time, making your holiday meal preparation much easier!

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is a countertop convection oven combo worth the money? 

It depends on your needs. If you live in a limited space but want to cook more than one dish, having a microwave convection oven combo might benefit you. Most models generally take up the same room as a standard microwave. 

What is the difference between a convection oven and a regular oven? 

Convection ovens add a fan on top of the traditional heating elements of a regular oven to help circulate hot air in the interior, allowing for a more even cooking. 

What are the disadvantages of convection ovens? 

They are more expensive than regular ovens. Some models also have louder convection fans. 

How do you choose the best microwave convection oven combo countertop? 

When choosing the best microwave convection oven combo countertop, the typical considerations you should look for are the size, capacity, durability, and evenness of heat circulation. You should also ensure it reaches the appropriate temperature for your cooking needs. 

How does a microwave convection oven combo work? 

A convection microwave typically has two modes: the standard and the convection mode. The standard model uses the functions of a microwave to cook or heat food. In contrast, the convection mode uses the aspects of a convection oven that employs a heating element and a fan to circulate heat while cooking evenly. 

Can you use a combination microwave for baking? 

Yes. A combination microwave or a combo oven offers various cooking options, including steaming, grilling, and baking. 

Which convection oven brand is the most reliable? 

Convection ovens from Panasonic, Toshiba, and Sharp are the most reliable brands. All three brands have excellent customer feedback and ratings on Amazon. 

Do you need to preheat a convection oven? 

Yes, like regular ovens, convection ovens also need to be preheated. Note that some models have more than one heating element used during preheating, which can burn your food. The oven will let you know when the two-to-preheat cycle has finished with a beep or an indicator light. 

Are convection ovens safer than regular ovens? 

Most convection ovens come with safety features. One of the most useful functions is the auto shut-off feature, which turns off the heating element once the temperature gets too high. With this, fire accidents are lower if you forget to shut off your appliance. 

Do convection ovens need to be vented? 

No. Convection ovens do not need to be vented because they use convection fans that help circulate the air inside the oven, allowing fast and even cooking. According to your manufacturer’s recommendation, no extra venting should be needed if you have properly installed your new oven. 

How long does a countertop convection oven combo last? 

It depends on the model and brand, but on average, a countertop convection oven combo can last for five to seven years. 

What can you cook with a convection oven combo? 

You can do a range of functions with a convection oven combo. Generally, you can roast an entire chicken, bake cakes and pizza, and cook beef and other dishes. 

Conclusion

We’re hoping that this guide has helped you decide which is the best microwave convection oven combo countertop that fits your needs and, of course, the overall aesthetics of your kitchen. In addition to features and functions, you’ll have to weigh the pros and cons of owning a specific brand and model and compare their prices.