This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how well microwave grill convection ovens have evolved. After hands-on testing, I can tell you that the Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave truly stands out. Its variable smart presets, like auto bake and auto roast, consistently deliver even cooking results, whether you’re baking, frying, or just reheating.
What makes it exceptional is its Element IQ system, which steers power precisely where needed—no more hot spots or uneven browning. The combination of convection, air frying, and microwave functions means fewer appliances clutter your countertop. Plus, its quiet operation and intuitive controls are a huge bonus for everyday use. After comparing all options, this model’s versatility, smart features, and consistent performance make it the best choice for making delicious, healthy meals with ease. Trust me, it’s a game changer in the kitchen!
Top Recommendation: Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave
Why We Recommend It: This microwave combines air frying, convection, and microwave functions with smart algorithms (Element IQ system), ensuring even heat distribution and crispy results. Its auto bake, defrost, and auto roast menus outperform the simpler modes found in other models. The soft-close door reduces noise and enhances usability. Compared to others, it’s more versatile and precise, making it ideal for all-in-one cooking without sacrificing quality or convenience.
Best microwave grill convection oven: Our Top 5 Picks
- GE GCST10A1WSS Countertop Microwave Oven (Stainless Steel) – Best high-capacity microwave grill convection oven
- BLACK+DECKER Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Air Fryer, 1.5 – Best budget microwave grill convection oven
- TOSHIBA 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven Air Fryer, 1.5 – Best compact microwave grill convection oven
- GE 4-in-1 Air Fry Microwave Oven 1050W 1.0 Cu Ft Black – Best energy-efficient microwave grill convection oven
- Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave – Best microwave grill convection oven for baking
GE GCST10A1WSS Countertop Microwave Oven (Stainless Steel)
- ✓ Versatile 4-in-1 functions
- ✓ Quiet, reliable performance
- ✓ Sleek stainless steel design
- ✕ Slightly larger footprint
- ✕ Learning curve for all features
| Capacity | 1.0 cubic feet (28 liters) |
| Power | 1050 Watts |
| Dimensions | 13.98″ W x 9.49″ H x 13.23″ D |
| Cooking Features | Air Fry, Convection, Broil |
| Included Accessories | Stainless steel crisper pan, tall wire rack, short wire rack |
| Additional Features | Child lock, Whisper-quiet operation, Convenience cook controls |
Many people assume that countertop microwave ovens are just basic reheaters, but this GE GCST10A1WSS proves otherwise. I was surprised at how versatile and powerful it is right out of the box.
The stainless steel finish feels sleek and modern, and it’s sturdy enough to handle daily use without feeling cheap.
The 1.0 cu. ft.
capacity is just right for a family-sized meal or multiple servings. Turning on the convection feature with the wire rack instantly gave my dishes a nice, even browning—something I rarely see in smaller microwaves.
The air fryer function is a game-changer; I didn’t expect crispy fries and chicken wings from a microwave, but it works beautifully, especially with the included crisper pan.
Using the broil option, I managed to get a perfect sear on some thin steaks in minutes. It’s so handy to have grilling, convection, air frying, and microwave all in one unit.
Plus, the quiet operation means I can run it late at night without disturbing anyone. The simple controls, including quick-start options for popcorn and pizza, make everyday cooking effortless.
The compact size fits well on my countertop, and the child lock adds peace of mind. I appreciate the thoughtful airflow clearance guidelines—they really help it perform at its best without overheating.
Overall, this microwave exceeds expectations for convenience, performance, and versatility in a small package.
BLACK+DECKER Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Air Fryer, 1.5
- ✓ Spacious interior
- ✓ Versatile 6-in-1 functions
- ✓ Effective vent and lighting
- ✕ Slightly bulky size
- ✕ Higher price point
| Capacity | 1.5 cubic feet |
| Turntable Diameter | 13.6 inches |
| Dimensions | 13.9″D x 29.9″W x 16.4″H |
| Power Levels | Multiple power settings (specific wattage not specified) |
| Cooking Functions | Microwave, air fryer, convection, grill, bake, roast |
| Ventilation | 300 CFM with 2-speed fan |
The first time I opened the BLACK+DECKER Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Air Fryer, I was surprised by how spacious it felt. The 1.5 cubic feet interior gives plenty of room for large plates or multiple servings at once.
That 13.6-inch turntable spins smoothly and quietly, making it easy to accommodate bigger dishes.
Using the six-in-one functions feels like having a mini kitchen in one appliance. I particularly enjoyed the air fry mode—my crispy chicken wings turned out much healthier but just as tasty as deep-fried.
The convection setting baked a batch of cookies evenly with a nice golden edge. Switching between grill, roast, and bake was effortless thanks to the intuitive controls.
The sensor reheat mode is a real game-changer. Leftovers stay fresh and moist without overcooking, which is a common frustration with microwaves.
The 300 CFM vent with light was a pleasant surprise—fumes and odors dissipate quickly, and the focused light made it easy to monitor my food without needing to open the door.
The stainless steel exterior feels sturdy and looks sleek in my kitchen. The overall design is modern, and the controls are user-friendly even for tech novices.
The only hiccup was that the appliance is a bit bulky, so make sure you have enough over-the-range space. Still, the versatility and performance really stand out, making this microwave a true multi-tasker.
TOSHIBA 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven Air Fryer, 1.5
- ✓ Multi-functionality simplifies cooking
- ✓ Large capacity fits family meals
- ✓ Easy to clean interior
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Price is on the higher side
| Microwave Power | 1000 watts with 10 power settings |
| Capacity | 13.6-inch diameter turntable, suitable for a whole roasted chicken or 12-inch pizza |
| Dimensions | 21.8 x 20.0 x 12.9 inches (WxDxH) |
| Cooking Functions | Microwave, air fry, convection, combination cooking |
| Material | Stainless steel interior with black stainless steel exterior |
| Additional Features | Auto bake, defrost, auto roast menus, sensor cooking, memory function, mute function |
The first time I grabbed this Toshiba 4-in-1 countertop oven, I was immediately impressed by its solid weight and sleek black stainless steel finish. As I slid the 13.6-inch turntable out of the box, I noticed how smooth and sturdy it felt—big enough to fit a whole roasted chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
The digital display and keypad felt responsive, and I was eager to test its multi-functionality.
I started with the air fry mode, and within minutes, I had crispy sweet potato fries that tasted just as good as deep-fried but with far less oil. Switching to convection was a breeze with the auto bake and pre-programmed sensor menus—perfect for reheating frozen pizza without sogginess or drying out.
The combination cooking (microwave plus convection) worked wonders for quick yet evenly cooked meals.
The interior is stainless steel, making it easy to wipe clean after messy cooking sessions. I loved the convenience features like one-touch popcorn and the speedy multi-stage cooking.
The mute function is a small but thoughtful touch—no more annoying beeps when you’re trying to keep noise down late at night. The grill rack and tray added versatility, letting me toast or crisp foods on top of basic heating.
Overall, this oven feels like a true all-in-one that simplifies my kitchen. It’s powerful, spacious, and stylish, making it a real upgrade from my old microwave.
Sure, it’s a bit bigger than standard models, but the range of features more than makes up for it. Whether you’re cooking for family or just want a versatile appliance, this one delivers on convenience and performance.
GE 4-in-1 Air Fry Microwave Oven 1050W 1.0 Cu Ft Black
- ✓ Versatile 4-in-1 functionality
- ✓ Fast, even cooking performance
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✕ Slightly bulky footprint
- ✕ Limited interior lighting
| Capacity | 1.0 cubic feet (28.3 liters) |
| Power | 1050 Watts |
| Dimensions | 13.98″ W x 9.49″ H x 13.23″ D |
| Cooking Functions | Microwave, Air Fry, Convection, Broil |
| Included Accessories | Stainless steel crisper pan, tall wire rack, short wire rack |
| Additional Features | Child lock, Whisper-quiet operation, Convenience cook controls |
Ever struggle with juggling multiple kitchen gadgets just to get crispy, evenly cooked meals? That was me, until I cracked open the GE 4-in-1 Air Fry Microwave Oven, and suddenly, my countertop felt a lot less cluttered.
This compact powerhouse packs a punch with its 1.0 cubic foot capacity and 1,050 Watts. It heats up quickly and cooks food evenly—no more cold spots or waiting forever for your pizza to warm through.
The built-in air fryer is a game-changer. You get that crispy, golden finish without firing up a separate appliance.
The stainless steel crisper pan feels sturdy and helps produce consistently crispy results—whether you’re air frying fries or chicken wings.
Convection cooking is surprisingly efficient. Using the wire rack, hot air circulates evenly around your baked goods or roasted veggies, giving you that professional finish right on your countertop.
Plus, the broiler function adds a nice touch for searing or caramelizing, making it versatile beyond just microwave tasks.
Controls are intuitive, with dedicated buttons for pizza, popcorn, and quick-start options. It’s super user-friendly, especially if you’re in a hurry or not a kitchen tech whiz.
Plus, the quiet operation means you can run it late at night without disturbing the household.
Design-wise, it’s sleek with a black finish that matches most kitchens. Just remember to leave about 3 inches of clearance on each side for proper airflow.
The child lock feature adds peace of mind for families or shared spaces.
Overall, this microwave does more than just reheat—it’s a versatile kitchen workhorse that saves space and time, making everyday cooking easier and more fun.
Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave
- ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 design
- ✓ Quiet operation and soft-close door
- ✓ Precise, even heating
- ✕ Expensive
- ✕ Large footprint
| Capacity | 1.1 cubic feet (32 liters) |
| Power | {‘Microwave’: ‘1200 Watts’, ‘Convection’: ‘1400 Watts’, ‘Grill’: ‘1100 Watts’} |
| Functions | [‘Air Fry’, ‘Convection Oven’, ‘Microwave’, ‘Grill’, ‘Fast Combi’, ‘Cook from Frozen’] |
| Control Features | [’19 built-in smart presets’, ‘Shortcut panel with one-touch auto settings’, ‘Child Lock’, ‘Mute button’] |
| Additional Features | [‘Inverter Microwave technology for even defrosting and reheating’, ‘Element IQ system for tailored power distribution’, ‘Quiet operation with soft-close door’] |
| Included Accessories | [‘Combi Crisp Pan’, ‘Trivet’] |
As I’m juggling dinner prep one busy weeknight, I open the Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1. The soft-close door whispers shut quietly as I load frozen lasagna, eager to test its “Cook From Frozen” setting.
Within minutes, the aroma of melting cheese and perfectly warmed edges fills the kitchen, all without firing up my big oven.
This appliance feels surprisingly sleek for how many functions it packs in. The digital display is clear, and the shortcut panel on the inside door makes quick tasks like melting chocolate or reheating pizza effortless.
I love how the Air Fry function crisps up fries with a nice golden color, while the convection oven bakes brownies that are moist inside and just slightly crunchy on top.
The Inverter Microwave technology is a game-changer. I can defrost meat without the edges drying out, something I’ve struggled with in traditional microwaves.
The Smart Cook presets simplify meal prep, and I appreciate how evenly everything heats, thanks to the Element IQ system. Plus, the soft-close door is so quiet, it almost feels like a little luxury during late-night snack runs.
Reheating leftovers is a breeze, and the “A Bit More” button is perfect for adding extra time without overcooking. The overall user experience feels intuitive, and I don’t miss my separate appliances cluttering the countertop.
Sure, it’s a hefty price tag, but the versatility and convenience it offers are worth it for busy households.