Top 5 Best Convection Microwave Options Of 2019 (How To Choose)

What Is A Convection Microwave Oven?

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First, let’s run through what a convection microwave oven is. While some people have thought about buying them, not everyone has a full understanding of what they are.

These are kitchen appliances which combine the convenience of the microwave with the usefulness of the convection oven. With one oven, you can quickly microwave something, or you can use the convection features to properly back something. No matter how you prepare it, convection ovens make life more convenient.

Durability

The most important thing to look at when choosing the best convection microwave is durability. Because this type of appliance has many features in one device, it has many more parts that can break. For that reason, convection microwaves are known for breaking too often.

Look for a convection microwave that has a good warranty plan, good durability rating, and is from a well-known brand so you can have it easily serviced. By paying attention to these factors, you’ll be able to ensure that your new appliance lasts for many years.

Convection Control

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Different microwave convection oven combinations have different amounts of control over the temperature and convection aspect of the appliance.

Some devices will only offer pre-programmed convection options while others will let you decide the exact temperature that you want to use. Since there are pros and cons to both of the convection options, you simply need to think about what you will be using the oven for and what kind of settings you will need.

If you only plan to use the convection aspect for a few different things, then simple settings may be good for you. If, however, the convection oven will be replacing any other type of oven in your home, you may want to choose something with more advanced options.

Size

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While most microwave convection ovens range between 1.1 and 1.7 cubic feet in size, that is still a fairly large range of sizes. You will want to consider how much you like to fit in a microwave.

A good way of deciding how big of an appliance you need is to find out what size your current microwave is and see if you would prefer something a bit bigger or a bit smaller.

If you don’t currently own a microwave, head to a local store and check out the models on display. See what feels large and what feels just right. Write down your findings, and do your shopping at home at your own leisure.

Choose A Type

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There are three different types of convection microwaves: countertop, over-the-range, and built-in. The most popular type is definitely the countertop microwave, with over-the-range microwaves being a close second.

Consider your kitchen setup. Do you have the space for a countertop microwave, or should you try to fit in an over-the-range microwave? The only way to have a built-in microwave is if you have a space for one, so this option might be more limited for you depending on your kitchen’s layout.

There aren’t any real differences in how these different appliances work; it’s really about how they fit into your kitchen. It’s important to note that countertops are the most inexpensive option among the three types.

Wattage

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The next thing to consider is the wattage on your convection microwave options. Wattage will affect how quickly and how thoroughly food is cooked when you are using your microwave oven. Wattage can basically be described as the power and speed of cooking that your microwave will be able to accomplish.

Look for a convection microwave that has more than 700 watts of power, if possible. Any wattage lower than this will cook food slowly and unevenly.

Functionality

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While it is, of course, possible to learn how to use any appliance, you will want to choose a convection microwave that has an intuitive design. Are the buttons logically placed? Is it similar to your current microwave? Or will you need to relearn everything?

The point of this type of appliance is how much easier it makes your life. If the controls are too complicated, you may not want to choose that microwave oven. Simple controls are key when adding a new appliance to your life.

Extra Features

There are a number of other useful features that you may want your convection microwave to have. While none of these are required, consider which of the following features you may want your appliance to include:

You will also want to consider the finish as an extra feature. If you want your microwave to blend in with your kitchen, you should consider choosing black, stainless, or another color depending on your kitchen’s design.

Of these features, the only one I’ve found useful is the quick start timer, which I use all the time to add an extra 30 seconds when needed. The choice here, however, depends on your specific needs.