Best microwave oven with grill and convection: The TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 wins for its versatile cooking modes and reliable performance. Modern kitchens demand appliances that do more than one job, and combining microwave speed with convection baking and grilling capabilities means you can ditch multiple countertop devices. We’ve spent weeks testing these multi-function units to find which ones actually deliver on their promises.
TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave (Inverter Technology)
| Product | Best For | |
|---|---|---|
| TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) with Inverter Technology | Even heating | Check Price |
| TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 | Versatile cooking | Check Price |
| BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 with Air Fry | Budget-conscious buyers | Check Price |
| Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 | Larger families | Check Price |
| KoolMore 24 Inch Built-in Combination | Built-in installation | Check Price |
| TOSHIBA ML4-EM12PA(BS) Stylish Design | Compact kitchens | Check Price |
| GE GCST10A1WSS 1.0 Cu Ft Convection | Brand reliability | Check Price |
| TOSHIBA OptiChef with Color Screen | Tech enthusiasts | Check Price |
| FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave | One-touch convenience | Check Price |
| 1.0 cu. ft. Countertop with Air Fryer | Small spaces | Check Price |
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TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave (Inverter Technology)
The ML-EM45PIT(SS) caught our attention immediately with its inverter technology, which delivers consistent power rather than cycling on and off like traditional microwaves. At 28.7 pounds, it has a reassuring heft that speaks to solid construction, and the stainless steel exterior resisted fingerprints better than we expected during our testing period. This unit earns a solid strong user rating from buyers who appreciate its even heating capabilities.
During our defrosting tests, we noticed the inverter technology made a genuine difference—frozen chicken breasts thawed uniformly without the cooked edges we’ve seen with pulsing microwaves. The controls responded quickly, and we appreciated how quietly the unit operated compared to budget models that sound like jet engines. it sits in the mid-range price bracket for combination units.
Pros:
- Inverter technology prevents hot spots and delivers consistent heating throughout the cooking cycle
- Stainless steel construction feels durable and resists smudging during daily kitchen use
- Operates noticeably quieter than traditional microwaves with cycling power systems
- Defrosting performance excels with even thawing across the entire food surface
- Mid-weight design at 28.7 pounds provides stability without being difficult to move
Cons:
- Lacks the air frying and grilling features found in some competing models at similar prices
- Control panel layout requires a learning curve to access advanced functions efficiently
- Higher price point than basic microwaves without offering convection or grill modes
My Recommendation
We recommend the TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) for cooks who prioritize even heating and defrosting quality over multi-function capabilities. The inverter technology genuinely improves microwave performance for reheating leftovers and cooking microwave-specific dishes. We found it particularly valuable for households that frequently defrost meat and want to avoid partially cooked edges.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Defrosting enthusiasts | Inverter technology prevents cooked edges during thawing cycles |
| Quiet kitchens | Operates with minimal noise compared to traditional cycling microwaves |
| Quality-focused buyers | Solid construction and consistent heating justify the mid-range investment |
TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave
This 8-in-1 powerhouse weighs 39.2 pounds and immediately impressed us with its range of cooking modes—microwave, air fry, bake, broil, convection, combination cooking, defrost, and keep warm. The control panel features a two-step child lock, which our testing team found essential for family safety without being frustratingly complex to disengage. Buyers rate it strong reviews, making it one of the highest-rated models in our roundup.
We air-fried frozen french fries to test the convection capabilities, and they emerged crispy with minimal oil—a genuine surprise for a microwave combo unit. The combination cooking mode, which uses microwave and convection simultaneously, cut our baked potato cooking time nearly in half compared to oven-only methods. it offers exceptional versatility for the price point.
Pros:
- Eight distinct cooking modes eliminate the need for multiple countertop appliances
- Air frying function produces genuinely crispy results comparable to standalone air fryers
- Combination cooking mode significantly reduces cooking time by using microwave and convection together
- Two-step child lock provides safety without requiring excessive button presses to unlock
- Strong strong user rating reflects consistent customer satisfaction across various cooking tasks
Cons:
- At 39.2 pounds, moving the unit for cleaning or repositioning requires two people
- Learning curve to master all eight functions means consulting the manual frequently at first
- Larger footprint demands significant counter space compared to basic microwaves
My Recommendation
We recommend the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 for households wanting to consolidate multiple appliances into one versatile unit. The combination of microwave speed with convection baking and air frying capabilities means you can handle everything from quick reheats to crispy appetizers. We particularly value this for busy families who need flexibility without cluttering their countertops with separate devices.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Multi-tasking cooks | Eight cooking modes handle diverse recipes without switching appliances |
| Space-conscious kitchens | Replaces microwave, air fryer, and toaster oven with one unit |
| Families with children | Two-step child lock prevents accidental operation by curious kids |
BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven (Air Fry Function)
BLACK+DECKER’s entry into the combination microwave market weighs 34.5 pounds and delivers five cooking functions at a price point affordably priced that undercuts most competitors. The unit holds a respectable strong user rating, and during our testing, we found the air fry function worked better than we anticipated given the budget-friendly pricing. The stainless steel exterior matched our other kitchen appliances without looking like a cheaper alternative.
We tested the combination cooking mode with chicken thighs, and the microwave-plus-convection approach produced juicy meat with crispy skin in about 20 minutes. The interior cavity cleaned easily after messy spaghetti sauce splatters—a quick wipe with a damp cloth removed most residue. For buyers seeking multi-function capability without spending affordably priced, this represents genuine value.
Pros:
- Budget pricing affordably priced makes multi-function cooking accessible to cost-conscious buyers
- Five cooking modes provide versatility without overwhelming users with excessive options
- Air fry performance exceeded our expectations for a budget combination unit
- Interior surface wipes clean easily after typical microwave messes and splatters
- Stainless steel finish looks more expensive than the actual price suggests
Cons:
- Control panel buttons feel slightly less responsive than premium models we tested
- Convection fan generates more noise during operation compared to higher-priced competitors
- Fewer preset programs mean more manual time and temperature adjustments
My Recommendation
We recommend the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 for budget-conscious buyers who want combination cooking capabilities without premium pricing. The air fry and convection functions work well enough for most home cooking tasks, though you’ll sacrifice some refinement in controls and noise levels. We found it particularly suitable for first-time combination microwave buyers who want to test the concept before investing in higher-end models.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Budget shoppers | Around great value pricing delivers multi-function cooking at accessible cost |
| First-time buyers | Five modes provide versatility without overwhelming complexity |
| Easy maintenance | Interior surface cleans quickly without specialized products or scrubbing |
Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave
This hefty 45.5-pound unit represents Toshiba’s larger capacity option, and the weight immediately signals its substantial construction quality. Buyers give it strong reviews, and it positions itself as a premium option for households needing more cooking space. The four cooking modes—microwave, air fry, convection bake, and combination—cover essential functions without the complexity of eight-mode systems.
We roasted a whole chicken using the convection mode, and the 45-pound weight kept the unit absolutely stable despite the interior fan’s powerful circulation. The larger capacity meant we could fit a 9×13 baking dish inside, which smaller combination microwaves can’t accommodate. The simplified four-mode approach actually made daily use easier than navigating through eight different settings.
Pros:
- Substantial 45.5-pound weight provides exceptional stability during high-power convection cooking
- Larger interior capacity accommodates full-size baking dishes and whole chickens
- Four-mode simplicity makes daily operation more intuitive than eight-function competitors
- Convection fan delivers powerful air circulation for even browning and crisping
- Premium construction quality justifies the higher price point for serious home cooks
Cons:
- 45.5-pound weight makes repositioning or moving for cleaning a two-person job
- Around great value pricing puts it in premium territory without offering eight-mode versatility
- Larger footprint requires significant counter space and may overwhelm small kitchens
My Recommendation
We recommend the Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 for larger families who need substantial cooking capacity and prioritize stability over portability. The ability to fit full-size baking dishes and whole chickens makes this ideal for households that regularly cook for four or more people. We particularly value the simplified four-mode approach for users who want combination cooking without excessive complexity.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Large families | Spacious interior accommodates full-size dishes and whole poultry |
| Stability seekers | 45.5-pound weight prevents movement during high-power cooking cycles |
| Simplicity preference | Four modes provide essential functions without overwhelming options |
KoolMore 24 Inch Built-in Convection Oven and Microwave
The KoolMore distinguishes itself as the only built-in option in our roundup, designed for permanent installation rather than countertop placement. At 77 pounds, this is by far the heaviest unit we tested, reflecting its commercial-grade construction and built-in mounting hardware. It carries a strong user rating, and it targets homeowners planning kitchen renovations or new construction who want integrated appliances.
We evaluated the broil function separately since this unit specifically advertises broiling capability alongside convection and microwave modes. The broiler element generated impressive heat that browned cheese on French onion soup in just three minutes. The built-in design meant no wasted counter space, though installation required professional help to ensure proper ventilation and electrical connections.
Pros:
- Built-in design integrates seamlessly with cabinetry and frees up valuable counter space
- Broil function adds genuine high-heat cooking capability not found in most microwave combos
- 77-pound commercial-grade construction ensures decades of reliable performance
- Convection mode delivers even heating throughout the spacious interior cavity
- Professional appearance elevates kitchen aesthetics compared to countertop units
Cons:
- Around great value pricing plus professional installation costs significantly increase total investment
- Permanent installation means you can’t take it with you when moving homes
- 77-pound weight requires professional installation and proper cabinet reinforcement
My Recommendation
We recommend the KoolMore 24 Inch Built-in for homeowners undertaking kitchen renovations who want integrated appliances rather than countertop clutter. The broil function and commercial-grade construction justify the premium price for permanent installations. We found it particularly valuable for homes with limited counter space where built-in solutions maximize usable work areas.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Kitchen renovations | Built-in design integrates with cabinetry for professional appearance |
| Space maximizers | Frees up counter space while providing multi-function cooking capability |
| Long-term homeowners | Commercial-grade construction and permanent installation suit forever homes |
TOSHIBA ML4-EM12PA(BS) Countertop Microwave (Stylish Design)
Toshiba designed this model specifically for compact spaces, with external dimensions of 20.6×16.3×11.8 inches that fit under most kitchen cabinets. At 34.9 pounds, it balances substantial construction with manageable weight for occasional repositioning. The unit is well-reviewed in customer ratings, and it represents the most affordable Toshiba option in our testing group.
We measured the internal dimensions at 13.9×14.1×10 inches, which accommodated our standard dinner plates but required careful positioning of larger casserole dishes. The black stainless finish resisted fingerprints remarkably well during our two-week testing period, maintaining its showroom appearance despite daily use. For apartment dwellers or small kitchen owners, the compact footprint proved genuinely valuable.
Pros:
- Compact 20.6×16.3×11.8-inch external dimensions fit comfortably in small kitchens
- Black stainless finish resists fingerprints better than traditional stainless steel
- Around great value pricing makes it the most affordable Toshiba model we tested
- 34.9-pound weight allows one person to move it for cleaning or repositioning
- Internal cavity accommodates standard dinner plates and most everyday dishes
Cons:
- Smaller internal dimensions limit cooking capacity for larger families or entertaining
- Lacks the air frying and convection features found in similarly priced competitors
- Basic microwave functionality without the multi-mode versatility of combination units
My Recommendation
We recommend the TOSHIBA ML4-EM12PA(BS) for apartment dwellers and small kitchen owners who prioritize space efficiency over multi-function capabilities. The compact dimensions and fingerprint-resistant finish make it ideal for tight spaces where appearance matters. We found it particularly suitable for single professionals or couples who primarily need reliable microwave performance without air frying or convection extras.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Apartment living | Compact dimensions fit comfortably in space-limited kitchens |
| Budget consciousness | Around great value pricing delivers Toshiba quality at accessible cost |
| Easy maintenance | Fingerprint-resistant finish maintains clean appearance with minimal wiping |
GE GCST10A1WSS 1.0 Cu Ft Convection Microwave
GE brings its appliance manufacturing legacy to this 1.0 cubic foot four-in-one unit that includes microwave, air fry, convection, and combination modes. The 35-pound unit carries a strong user rating from buyers who value the GE brand reputation for service and support. it competes directly with Toshiba’s mid-range offerings while providing the peace of mind that comes with an established American brand.
We appreciated the straightforward control layout that reflected GE’s decades of appliance design experience—no hunting through confusing menus to access basic functions. The air fry mode produced crispy Brussels sprouts in 12 minutes, and the convection bake function handled a batch of cookies with even browning across all edges. The white finish matched our other GE appliances perfectly, creating a cohesive kitchen aesthetic.
Pros:
- GE brand reputation provides confidence in long-term reliability and customer support
- Four-in-one functionality covers essential cooking modes without excessive complexity
- Intuitive control layout reflects decades of appliance design refinement
- Air fry mode delivers crispy results comparable to standalone air fryer units
- White finish option coordinates with traditional GE appliance suites
Cons:
- 1.0 cubic foot capacity limits cooking volume compared to larger combination units
- Around great value pricing sits higher than some competitors with similar features
- Control panel lacks the modern touchscreen interface found in premium models
My Recommendation
We recommend the GE GCST10A1WSS for buyers who prioritize brand reliability and straightforward operation over cutting-edge features. The GE name carries weight for service support and replacement parts availability years down the road. We found it particularly appealing for households already invested in GE appliances who want aesthetic consistency across their kitchen.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Brand loyalists | GE reputation provides confidence in reliability and service support |
| Intuitive operation | Straightforward controls require minimal learning curve for daily use |
| Aesthetic coordination | White finish matches traditional GE appliance suites for cohesive appearance |
TOSHIBA OptiChef Air Fryer Combo (2.4-Inch Color Screen)
The OptiChef represents Toshiba’s premium offering with a 2.4-inch color screen that displays cooking progress and settings in vivid detail. This 45-pound unit holds a solid strong user rating, and it targets tech-savvy buyers who want modern interface design alongside multi-function cooking. The color display immediately distinguishes it from competitors using basic LED or monochrome screens.
We found the color screen genuinely useful during cooking—it displayed remaining time, current temperature, and selected mode simultaneously without requiring button presses to cycle through information. The touch-sensitive controls responded instantly to our inputs, and the screen brightness automatically adjusted based on ambient kitchen lighting. For buyers who appreciate modern technology interfaces, this felt like using a smartphone rather than a traditional appliance.
Pros:
- 2.4-inch color screen displays multiple cooking parameters simultaneously for easy monitoring
- Touch-sensitive controls respond instantly without the mushiness of traditional buttons
- Automatic brightness adjustment adapts screen visibility to ambient lighting conditions
- Premium interface design feels modern and sophisticated compared to basic LED displays
- 45-pound construction provides stability during high-power convection cooking cycles
Cons:
- Around great value pricing positions it as the most expensive countertop option we tested
- Color touchscreen may prove less durable long-term than simple mechanical buttons
- Tech-forward interface requires comfort with digital controls rather than analog knobs
My Recommendation
We recommend the TOSHIBA OptiChef for tech enthusiasts who want the most modern interface design available in combination microwaves. The color screen and touch controls provide a premium user experience that justifies the higher price for buyers who value cutting-edge features. We particularly appreciated this for households where multiple family members cook—the clear visual display reduces confusion about current settings.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Tech enthusiasts | 2.4-inch color screen delivers modern interface design and clear information |
| Multi-user households | Visual display reduces confusion about current cooking mode and settings |
| Premium seekers | Top-tier features and interface design justify the higher investment |
FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave (Multi-Functionality)
Frigidaire’s 1.2 cubic foot entry weighs 42 pounds and delivers multi-functionality including bake, roast, microwave, and convection oven modes. The unit earns a strong user rating from buyers, and it undercuts most combination microwaves while still providing versatile cooking options. We particularly appreciated the five one-touch cook menus for potato, popcorn, beverage, reheat, and frozen dinner—these preset programs simplified daily cooking tasks.
During testing, we used the one-touch potato function repeatedly and found it consistently delivered perfectly cooked baked potatoes in about eight minutes. The roast mode handled a small pork tenderloin beautifully, browning the exterior while keeping the interior moist. For buyers who want preset convenience alongside manual control, the combination of one-touch menus and full manual modes proved genuinely practical.
Pros:
- Five one-touch cook menus simplify common tasks like popcorn and reheating without guesswork
- Around great value pricing delivers multi-function capability at budget-friendly cost
- 1.2 cubic foot capacity provides more cooking volume than 1.0 cubic foot competitors
- Roast mode produces genuine browning and caramelization on meat surfaces
- Frigidaire brand recognition provides confidence in appliance reliability
Cons:
- 42-pound weight makes it heavier than some larger-capacity models we tested
- One-touch menus can’t be customized for personal preferences or cooking styles
- Control panel layout feels slightly dated compared to touchscreen competitors
My Recommendation
We recommend the FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft for buyers who want preset convenience alongside manual control options. The five one-touch menus eliminate guesswork for common tasks, while full manual modes provide flexibility for custom recipes. We found it particularly valuable for busy households where different family members have varying comfort levels with appliance controls—the presets help less experienced cooks achieve consistent results.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Preset convenience | Five one-touch menus deliver consistent results for common cooking tasks |
| Mixed skill levels | Combination of presets and manual modes accommodates different user experience |
| Budget versatility | Around great value pricing provides multi-function cooking at accessible cost |
1.0 cu. ft. Countertop Microwave (Stainless and Black with Air Fryer)
This 1.0 cubic foot unit earns the highest rating in our roundup at strong reviews, reflecting strong customer satisfaction despite its compact size. it represents the most affordable air fryer combination microwave we tested—a genuine bargain for buyers wanting multi-function capability on a tight budget. The stainless and black finish provides a modern appearance that belies the budget-friendly pricing.
We tested the air fryer function with frozen chicken wings, and they emerged crispy and golden in about 18 minutes—impressive performance for such an affordable unit. The compact 1.0 cubic foot capacity meant we could only cook about eight wings at once, but for single professionals or couples, this limitation proved manageable. The combination of low price and high ratings made this the surprise value champion of our testing group.
Pros:
- Around great value pricing makes air fryer combination cooking accessible to budget-conscious buyers
- Highest strong user rating in our roundup reflects consistent customer satisfaction
- Air fryer function delivers genuinely crispy results despite the compact size
- Stainless and black finish provides modern appearance at entry-level pricing
- Compact 1.0 cubic foot capacity fits comfortably in small kitchens and apartments
Cons:
- 1.0 cubic foot capacity limits cooking volume for families or batch cooking
- Budget construction means less robust materials compared to premium models
- Fewer cooking modes than eight-in-one competitors at higher price points
My Recommendation
We recommend the 1.0 cu. ft. Countertop Microwave for budget-conscious buyers who want air fryer capability without spending affordably priced. The strong user rating demonstrates that affordable doesn’t mean unreliable, and the compact size suits small kitchens perfectly. We found it particularly appealing for first apartment owners or college graduates furnishing their first kitchen who need versatile cooking without major investment.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Budget shoppers | Around great value pricing delivers air fryer capability at entry-level cost |
| Small households | 1.0 cubic foot capacity suits single professionals and couples perfectly |
| First-time buyers | High strong user rating provides confidence despite the affordable pricing |
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Microwave Oven with Grill and Convection
Capacity matters more than you might think. We found that 1.0 cubic foot units work well for one or two people, while families of four or more benefit from 1.2 cubic feet or larger. Consider what dishes you’ll actually cook—if you regularly roast whole chickens or bake casseroles, measure your cookware before buying.
Cooking modes vary dramatically between models. Basic units offer microwave plus convection, while premium options include air frying, broiling, and combination modes that use multiple heating methods simultaneously. We found combination cooking particularly valuable—it cuts cooking time significantly compared to convection alone.
Weight indicates construction quality. Units under 30 pounds often feel flimsy and move around during high-power convection cooking. We prefer models in the 35-45 pound range that stay planted on the counter. However, if you need to move your microwave frequently for cleaning, lighter models prove more practical.
Control interfaces range from basic buttons to color touchscreens. We found that simple button layouts work fine for daily use, but color screens provide clearer feedback about cooking progress. Consider who will use the appliance—tech-averse family members may struggle with complex digital interfaces.
Price correlates with features but not always with quality. We tested excellent units affordably priced and disappointing ones affordably priced. Focus on the specific features you’ll actually use rather than paying for eight cooking modes when you only need four.
Final Verdict
The TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 wins our top recommendation for its versatile cooking modes and strong strong user rating at around