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A microwave with grill and convection capability brings a lot of flexibility to a kitchen that needs more than simple reheating. You get the speed and convenience of microwave heating combined with grilling for crisping and convection for even baking, so you can handle everything from quick weekday meals to small-batch roast or bake tasks. This guide shortlists the top choices for microwaves with grill and convection and explains the practical tradeoffs buyers face. We evaluate each pick for cooking performance, interior capacity, control layout, and ease of cleaning to help you decide which model will best fit your routine. Read on for the selection of top-rated options and what matters most when choosing one for your home.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | CONTOURE RV-955SSAF Microwave |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Panasonic HomeChef NN-CV87QS |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | CONTOURE RV-955BKAF 0.9 Cu Ft Microwave |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Equator CMO 1200 1.2 cu ft |  |
| Top Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | TOSHIBA Opticheft Series ML-EC42P |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | TOSHIBA MASTER Series ML2-TC10SAIT |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave GCST10A1WSS |  |
CONTOURE RV-955SSAF Microwave
| Capacity | 0.9 cubic feet |
|---|---|
| Power Output | 900 Watts |
| Installation Type | Built-In / Countertop Compatible |
| Cooking Features | Air Fry, Convection, Grill, Microwave, Combination Cooking |
| Control Type | Touch Controls with LED Display |
The CONTOURE RV-955SSAF is a compact built-in microwave that merges microwave speed with convection baking, grilling, and Smart Air Fry in a single 0.9 cu. ft. unit. Designed for RVs and small kitchens, it uses a 900W microwave element plus a convection/grill system and a 10.5 inch turntable to deliver faster reheats and oven-like results for baking, roasting, broiling, and crisp air-fried foods with little to no oil. Touch controls and an LED display make programming straightforward, and combination cooking modes let you pair microwave and convection to cut overall cook time while preserving texture. The stainless steel finish and countertop or built-in installation options give a seamless look where space is limited, though capacity is best suited to single-serve meals or small casseroles rather than full-family cooking. Expect typical RV-focused power limits and the need to use smaller pans and trays, but for buyers wanting one unit that replaces a microwave plus a small oven and air fryer, this model is a practical space-saving choice.
Best for: Buyers who need a single space-saving appliance that offers microwave speed plus oven-quality convection and air-fry results for RVs or compact kitchens and prioritize versatility over large capacity.
Less Ideal for: Users who regularly cook large roasts, big casseroles, or for multiple people at once should choose a larger countertop or conventional oven instead.
- Combines microwave, convection, grill, and Smart Air Fry functions in one compact unit
- 900W power with 10.5" turntable provides quick, even reheating and faster combination cooking
- Touch controls and LED display simplify preset and combination mode operation
- Built-in / countertop compatibility and stainless steel finish fit RV and small kitchen layouts
- 0.9 cu. ft. capacity limits usable dish size and is not ideal for large family meals
- Trim kit sold separately for fully integrated built-in installation
Verdict: If you need a compact, multi-function unit that replaces a microwave plus a small convection oven and air fryer for an RV or tiny kitchen, this model delivers that versatility in one appliance.
Panasonic HomeChef NN-CV87QS
| Wattage | 1000 watts |
|---|---|
| Power Consumption | 1350 watts |
| Capacity | 1.2 cubic feet |
| Number of Programs | 20 |
The Panasonic HomeChef NN-CV87QS is a 4-in-1 countertop oven that pairs inverter microwave power with convection, broil, and air-fry functions to handle everything from reheating to crisp roasting. It is typically used as an all-in-one replacement for a separate microwave and small oven: use microwave mode for quick defrosts and reheats, convection or broil for baking and finishing, and air-fry for crisping without a full-size fryer. Notable features include 1,000W microwave output with inverter technology for even heating, 20 preprogrammed modes, a 14.2-inch turntable to fit larger dishes, and connectivity to the Panasonic Kitchen+ app for recipe-guided cooking. Practical benefits are faster multi-function cooking, fewer appliance swaps, and guided app recipes that automate settings. Important limitations are its countertop footprint and weight which may be large for small kitchens, and the complexity of multiple modes means a learning curve to get the best results across functions. Power consumption is higher when using convection and broil compared with basic microwaving.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize performance and want a single countertop appliance that delivers microwave speed plus oven-quality grilling and convection results with app-assisted recipes.
Less Ideal for: People with very limited counter space or those who prefer a simple plug-and-play microwave without extra cooking modes or a learning curve.
- Combines microwave, convection, broil, and air-fry in one unit for versatile cooking
- Inverter and Genius Sensor technology for more even defrosting and reheating
- App connectivity with Panasonic Kitchen+ provides recipe guidance and remote control
- Large 1.2 cu ft cavity and 14.2" turntable fit whole roasts or poultry
- Multiple presets and seven power levels simplify common tasks
- Relatively large footprint and substantial weight for a countertop appliance
- Convection and broil use significantly more power than microwave mode
- Multiple cooking modes require time to learn for consistently best results
Verdict: Choose the HomeChef NN-CV87QS if you want a high-performance countertop microwave that also grills, air-fries, and bakes so you can replace multiple appliances with one versatile unit.
CONTOURE RV-955BKAF 0.9 Cu Ft Microwave
| Capacity | 0.9 cubic feet |
|---|---|
| Wattage | 900 watts |
| Turntable Diameter | 10.5 inches |
| Installation Type | Built-In |
The CONTOURE RV-955BKAF packs microwave, convection, grill, and Smart Air Fry technology into a 0.9 cu ft built-in design intended for small kitchens and RVs. In everyday use it operates as a fast 900W microwave with a 10.5 in turntable for reheating and defrosting, and switches to convection or grill modes when you need baking, roasting, or broiling with more even heat. The Smart Air Fry feature crisps foods using little to no oil, so you can make fries or nuggets without a separate appliance. Touchscreen LED controls keep settings simple, and the compact footprint fits into tight built-in spaces; a trim kit is available separately for integrated installs. Expect oven-like browning from the convection and grill, but the small cavity limits batch sizes and larger baking trays will not fit. If you need full-size oven capacity or heavy-duty commercial performance, this unit will feel constrained, but for space-conscious cooks who want multiple cooking modes in one stove-top replacement it delivers practical versatility.
Best for: Buyers who need to maximize cooking options in a cramped kitchen or RV and prefer a single compact appliance that can microwave, air fry, and perform light baking or grilling.
Less Ideal for: People who regularly cook large meals, use full-size baking sheets, or need high-wattage microwave speed should consider a larger oven or higher-power microwave instead.
- Combines microwave, convection, grill, and air fry functions in one compact built-in unit
- Smart Air Fry crisps foods with minimal oil for healthier fried-style results
- Touchscreen LED controls simplify mode selection and preset use
- Convection and grill provide more even browning than a basic microwave
- Compact footprint designed for RVs and small kitchens with optional trim kit for integration
- 0.9 cu ft cavity limits batch size and larger bakeware will not fit
- 900W microwave power is adequate but slower than higher-wattage countertop models
Verdict: This compact built-in unit is the best choice for space-conscious cooks who want microwave, convection, grill, and air-fry capability in a single appliance.
Equator CMO 1200 1.2 cu ft
| Capacity | 1.2 cubic feet |
|---|---|
| Wattage | 1500 watts |
| Cooking Program | MICROWAVE, GRILL, OVEN, COMBINATION |
| Number of Power Levels | 10 |
The Equator CMO 1200 is a space-saving 3-in-1 countertop unit that combines microwave, grill, and convection oven cooking for everyday meals. It is typically used where kitchen space is limited or when you want a single appliance to handle reheating, defrosting, baking, and surface grilling without a full-size oven. Notable features include 1500 watts of microwave power, a 1050-watt grill, convection heating, 10 power levels, express cook and weight/time defrost options, and programmable combination functions that chain defrost, convection, and grill steps. In practice the combo functions let you crisp and brown foods after microwave or convection cooking, and the child lock and audible completion reminder add convenience for family use. Trade-offs are its modest 1.2 cu ft capacity and 12-inch turntable that limit large dishes, and the unit is relatively heavy for a countertop appliance. For buyers prioritizing a single affordable appliance that replaces several devices and handles light baking, roasting, and grilling, the CMO 1200 is a practical choice, but it is not a substitute for a full-size oven when you need to cook large trays or multiple dishes at once.
Best for: Buyers on a tight budget who need a single countertop appliance to handle reheating, light baking, grilling, and defrosting without buying separate devices.
Less Ideal for: Those who regularly cook large roasts, multiple casserole dishes, or need a full-size oven for entertaining should look for larger built-in or freestanding ovens instead.
- Combines microwave, grill, and convection oven functions in one unit
- Multiple cooking modes including combination programs and 10 power levels
- Weight and time defrost plus express cook speed up meal prep
- Stainless steel interior for easier cleaning and durability
- 1.2 cu ft capacity and 12-inch turntable limit cooking of large dishes
- Relatively heavy for a countertop appliance which may be awkward to move
Verdict: If you want an affordable countertop unit that replaces a microwave, small grill, and convection oven for everyday meals, this 3-in-1 Equator model delivers those functions in one compact package.
TOSHIBA Opticheft Series ML-EC42P
| Wattage | 1000 watts |
|---|---|
| Power Consumption | 1800 watts |
| Capacity | 0.9 cubic feet |
| Turntable Diameter | 11.3 inches |
| Cooking Program | Air Fry, Broil, Convection Bake, Even Defrost, Speedy Combi |
The TOSHIBA Opticheft ML-EC42P is a countertop inverter microwave that doubles as an air fryer, broiler, and convection oven, so it replaces multiple small appliances in a typical kitchen. It uses inverter technology for steadier power and an Even Defrost system to reduce hot spots and more consistent thawing, and the 11.3 inch turntable helps spread heat evenly during microwave and convection cycles. Controls are a mix of buttons, keypad, and touchscreen with 27 auto menus and 47 built-in recipes that simplify common tasks, while Speedy Combi mode combines cooking methods to cut time for mixed dishes. Included racks expand roasting and air-frying capability, and the unit offers 10 power levels and sound on/off for a quieter experience. Trade-offs are its relatively compact 0.9 cu ft capacity and substantial countertop footprint, which limit large roasts or bulky bakeware, and the 1800 watt power consumption rating means it draws more from the circuit during heavy use. For buyers who want a reliable, multi-function unit that produces steadier microwave results and replaces an extra convection or air fryer, this Toshiba model is a practical choice.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize a dependable, all-in-one countertop oven/microwave that delivers consistent microwave performance and replaces separate convection or air-fry appliances.
Less Ideal for: Homes that need a very large internal cavity for big roasts or for cooks who regularly use oversized baking sheets should consider a larger oven or full-size range instead.
- Inverter technology and Even Defrost for more consistent heating and thawing
- Multiple cooking modes including air fry, broil, and convection for flexible meal prep
- 27 auto menus and 47 recipes simplify common cooking tasks
- Includes air fry and broil racks to expand cooking options
- Sound on/off and 10 power levels for a customizable user experience
- 0.9 cu ft capacity can be tight for large dishes or family-sized bakeware
- Unit is fairly heavy and takes significant countertop space
Verdict: A reliable inverter countertop microwave that combines air fry, broil, and convection into one dependable unit for everyday multi-mode cooking.
TOSHIBA MASTER Series ML2-TC10SAIT
| Wattage | 1000 watts |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1 cubic feet |
| Heating Method | Convection |
| Number of Programs | 101 |
| Included Components | Air Fryer Basket, Bake Tray, Higher Wire Rack, Lower Wire Rack |
This TOSHIBA MASTER Series countertop microwave packs microwave, convection, air fry and broil into one versatile 1.0 cu ft unit aimed at replacing multiple countertop appliances. It uses inverter technology and a built-in humidity sensor to adjust power and timing for more even reheating and defrosting, and the convection/grill modes reach higher temperatures for browning and crisping. The oven includes an air fry basket, bake tray and two wire racks so you can roast, crisp and bake without extra tools, and combi-modes blend microwave plus convection or grill to speed cooking while keeping interiors moist. Controls mix buttons and a touchscreen-style dial with many presets, which helps novices but may require a short learning curve to master custom temps and timings. The unit is fairly compact for a 1.0 cu ft oven and the cooling fan may run briefly after use. For kitchens that need a single device for reheating, baking, air frying and broiling, this model offers broad capability, but power and preset complexity mean users should expect a bit of setup time to get consistent results for specific recipes.
Best for: Buyers who want a single countertop appliance that replaces separate microwave, air fryer and small convection oven functions and who value sensor-assisted, versatile cooking over a simple plug-and-play unit.
Less Ideal for: Those who need an extremely simple, single-function microwave or who prefer a larger capacity oven for family-size roasts should look elsewhere.
- Combines inverter microwave, convection, air fry and broil in one countertop unit
- Built-in humidity sensor adjusts cook time and power for more even results
- Includes air fry basket, bake tray and two wire racks for versatile cooking
- Combi-modes let you mix microwave and convection/grill to speed cooking
- Control layout and large number of presets can be confusing at first
- Fan may continue running for a few minutes after cooking stops
Verdict: If you want to replace multiple countertop appliances with one sensor-driven oven that can microwave, air fry, convection bake and broil, this Toshiba offers broad functionality in a compact package.
GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave GCST10A1WSS
| Capacity | 1 cubic feet |
|---|---|
| Power Consumption | 1050 watts |
| Wattage | 1500 watts |
| Number of Programs | 12 |
| Inner Material | Stainless Steel |
This GE 4-in-1 countertop microwave pairs a 1,050-watt microwave with convection, broil, and an integrated air fry function to handle reheating, browning, crisping, and small baking tasks in one compact unit. Typical use is straightforward: microwave presets speed common tasks like popcorn and pizza, while the convection and broil modes use the included wire racks to circulate hot air for even browning and to sear or caramelize. The air fry mode and stainless steel crisper pan deliver noticeably crisp results compared with microwave-only cooking, and the stainless interior is easy to wipe clean. Controls are touch-based and the unit includes a two-step child lock for safety in family or shared settings. Trade-offs are the modest 1.0 cu. ft. capacity and 12.4-inch turntable, which limit larger dishes and full-sheet baking, and the unit is heavier and requires the recommended clearance for proper airflow, so counter placement needs planning. For everyday families or small households who want grill and convection capability without a separate oven, this is a convenient all-in-one choice.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize reliable, easy-to-use appliances and want a single countertop unit that adds convection, broil, and air-fry capability without complexity or multiple devices.
Less Ideal for: Anyone who regularly cooks large family-size dishes, full-sheet baking, or needs a larger internal cavity should consider a larger convection oven instead.
- Four cooking modes in one unit: microwave, convection, broil, and air fry
- Includes stainless steel crisper pan and wire racks for even browning and crisping
- User-friendly touch controls with multiple preset programs for common foods
- Stainless steel interior that is easy to clean and resists staining
- Built-in two-step child lock for added safety in family or shared spaces
- 1.0 cu. ft. capacity and 12.4-inch turntable limit larger plates and big casseroles
- Requires specified clearance and is relatively heavy, so countertop placement needs planning
Verdict: A compact, dependable countertop microwave that adds convection, broil, and air-fry functions for buyers who want one safe, easy appliance to handle everyday cooking and crisping.
Choosing the Right Microwave with Grill and Convection: Key Factors to Consider
Cooking Modes and How You'll Use Them
Understand which combination of microwave, grill, and convection modes you will actually use. If you mainly reheat and occasionally want a crisp top on casseroles, prioritize models where the grill and convection modes are easy to engage alongside microwave power.
Using grill and convection together changes cooking behavior and time compared with just microwaving. Convection works like a small oven, circulating hot air for even browning, while the grill element adds direct radiant heat for crisping. Models that let you run these modes singly or in combination give the most flexibility for different recipes.
Usable Interior Capacity
Check practical space inside the cavity, not just the headline liter number. Consider the turntable diameter or whether a flatbed design is used. A large internal volume with flexible rack positions and a removable rack increases what you can cook, from baking a small tray to grilling a pan of vegetables.
If you plan to use convection baking often, make sure the interior height and width will accept shallow oven trays or a standard baking pan. For families or frequent entertaining, a bigger usable footprint reduces the need to cook in multiple batches.
Grill Element Placement and Effectiveness
Grill performance depends on element location and available distance to the food. A grill placed closer to the top of the cavity will brown and crisp faster, which is useful for finishing and gratins. Look for models with adjustable racks or grill-only presets so you can achieve a crispy surface without overcooking the interior.
Also consider how the grill is engaged during combined-mode cooking. Some units apply the grill intermittently to avoid burning while others use steady radiant heat, which changes timing and results.
Control Layout and Presets
Controls should make it straightforward to select microwave, grill, convection, or combined modes. Intuitive dials or clearly labeled buttons reduce the guesswork of how long to run each mode and when to switch between them. Useful presets for common tasks such as grilling fish, reheating with crisp, or convection baking small items speed up routine use.
Programmable memory, one-touch cooking for common items, and clear displays help avoid overcooking. If you rely on manual settings, precise time and temperature control is important for repeatable results.
Temperature Range and Convection Performance
Convection cooking quality is tied to the heating system and airflow design. A unit that reaches and maintains a stable oven temperature will give more predictable baking outcomes and more even browning. Look for clear temperature settings and whether the unit provides fan speed or staged heating to manage delicate items.
For recipes that need steady heat, such as small roasts or baked goods, convection performance matters more than raw microwave wattage. Evaluate whether the convection mode has consistent heat distribution across the cavity rather than hotspots.
Cleaning and Maintenance
A microwave with grill and convection adds cleaning tasks compared with a simple microwave because of higher temperatures and grilling splatter. Interiors with smooth enamel or removable liners are easier to wipe down, and removable racks or grills that can be washed separately reduce effort.
Consider how accessible the grill area is for cleaning and whether the unit has features that minimize spills, like drip trays. Ease of replacing or cleaning filters, as well as straightforward door seals, affects longevity and day-to-day upkeep.
How Combined Cooking Changes Timing and Technique
Using microwave, grill, and convection modes together changes both cooking time and expected results. Microwave energy speeds internal heating, while convection and grill add surface browning and texture. That means you can often shorten the overall cook time compared with pure convection baking, but you must watch for uneven browning if the grill element is too close.
Practical technique tips include reducing standard oven temperatures when switching to combined modes, using raised racks to get the grill closer for crisping, and letting items rest briefly after cooking to let carryover heat finish internal cooking. Start with conservative time reductions and test on small items to learn how a particular unit behaves.
- Reduce convection temperatures by 10 to 20 degrees Celsius when using microwave-assisted cooking.
- Use a raised rack for faster grill browning but monitor closely to avoid burning.
- Allow a short rest after cooking to finish internal cooking from carryover heat.
Placement and Ventilation Considerations
Microwaves with grill and convection need good ventilation because higher internal temperatures and grill use produce more heat. Leave adequate clearance above and around the unit per the manufacturer guidelines and keep nearby cabinets ventilated to avoid heat buildup.
Built-in installations require specific cutout dimensions and airflow paths. For countertop use, avoid tight enclosures that trap heat and make cleaning harder. Proper placement also affects how easily you can change racks and remove trays for cleaning.
- Keep at least the recommended clearance above the unit to avoid heat damage to cabinets.
- Avoid placing the oven in tight enclosures that inhibit airflow.
- Ensure countertop units sit level to keep racks and trays stable when removing hot items.
Accessories That Improve Usability
Useful accessories include removable racks, shallow baking trays, and grill-safe pans that fit the cavity. A dedicated drip tray or crumb collector under the grill reduces mess and simplifies cleaning. Accessories that are dishwasher-safe save time.
Consider whether the unit supports standard-size pans or requires specialty trays. Universal or adjustable racks increase flexibility for dishes of varying heights and improve the effectiveness of grilling and convection baking.
- Look for removable racks that lock securely in place.
- Prefer dishwasher-safe trays and grill pans where possible.
- Check accessory dimensions to confirm they match common baking pan sizes.
Energy Use and Efficiency
Combined-mode cooking can be energy-efficient because microwave energy shortens cook times, but grill and convection use increases instantaneous power draw. For short tasks, a microwave with grill and convection often uses less energy than an oven because it heats the smaller cavity and cooks faster.
If energy consumption matters, favor models with good insulation, rapid preheat in convection mode, and precise wattage control. Some units offer eco or standby modes that reduce idle power draw.
- Microwave-assisted cooking typically lowers total cook time versus convection-only.
- Higher power grill cycles use more electricity for short bursts.
- Look for consistent temperature management to avoid long, repeated cycles.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A frequent mistake is assuming microwave timing maps directly to convection recipes. Always adjust time and temperature when switching modes. Using the grill at high power without raising the rack can cause burning before the interior is done.
Another error is overcrowding the cavity. Overcrowding blocks airflow needed for convection and leads to uneven grilling. Finally, neglecting cleaning after high-heat grilling accelerates staining and makes future browning uneven.
- Do not use microwave timings for convection-only recipes without adjustment.
- Avoid overcrowding the cavity to maintain airflow.
- Clean grill areas after each heavy use to prevent buildup.
How We Chose the Best Microwave with Grill and Convection
We shortlisted models that combine microwave, grill, and convection functions in a single unit and focused on features that affect everyday cooking. Key evaluation criteria included actual cooking performance across microwave, grill, and convection modes; how evenly the unit browns and crisps items in grill or convection use; usable interior capacity and rack flexibility; control usability and program selection; and durability plus ease of cleaning. We favored units with clear, reliable controls and those that offered useful preset programs without excessive complexity. Models that lacked a separate grill function or offered only simulated browning were excluded, as were units with very small usable interior space that limits typical household cooking. We prioritized models with practical accessory support such as removable racks and easy-to-clean interiors. The resulting list represents options that balance multi-mode cooking capability with everyday usability and maintenance.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Can I use both microwave and convection at the same time?
Yes. Many units allow simultaneous microwave and convection operation to speed cooking and add browning. Timing and temperature need adjustment because the microwave shortens the time needed.
Will the grill damage cookware that is safe for microwave use?
Grill mode uses direct radiant heat and can damage cookware not rated for high temperatures. Use grill-safe metal pans or dishes specified for oven use and avoid plastics or microwave-only containers when grilling.
How do I clean grease from the grill area?
Cool the unit, remove any removable drip trays or racks, and soak them if dishwasher-safe. Wipe the interior with a mild degreasing solution and a soft cloth, avoiding abrasive tools that could damage coatings.
Is convection baking in a microwave as good as a small oven?
Convection in a microwave can approach small-oven results for many items, especially smaller trays and single dishes. However, cavity size and airflow patterns may limit capacity and slightly affect evenness compared with a full-size oven.
Do combined-mode microwaves require special maintenance?
They need a bit more attention after grill and convection use, particularly cleaning of the grill area and drip trays. Regularly check seals and vents for blockages and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for any filter replacement.
Final Verdict
Choosing a microwave with grill and convection comes down to balancing flexibility, usable interior space, and how comfortable you are adjusting time and temperature for combined-mode cooking. Prioritize models with clear controls, adequate cavity dimensions for the trays you plan to use, and easy-to-clean interiors to reduce upkeep. Accept that combined cooking requires a short learning period to get timings right, but when matched to your typical meals it can replace multiple appliances and speed many tasks. Focus on the specific cooking functions you will use most and pick a unit that makes those tasks simple and repeatable.