What Is a Convection Microwave and Should You Buy One?
A convection microwave combines a standard microwave with a convection oven function. It can heat and cook food using microwave energy alone, convection heat alone, or both simultaneously. This makes it a versatile kitchen appliance that can replace or supplement a traditional oven in some situations.
How Does a Convection Microwave Work?
A standard microwave heats food by exciting water molecules using microwave radiation — fast, but it doesn't brown or crisp food.
A convection microwave adds a heating element and a fan that circulates hot air around the food (the convection function). This produces browning, crisping and roasting — similar results to a conventional oven, but typically faster.
Some models also include a grill/broil element for further browning from above.
What Can a Convection Microwave Do That a Standard Microwave Can't?
- Bake cakes, muffins and biscuits
- Roast vegetables and meats
- Brown and crisp food (pizza, chips, roasted potatoes)
- Cook casseroles and gratins
- Use as a full oven replacement in a small kitchen
What Can't a Convection Microwave Do as Well as a Full Oven?
- Capacity is smaller — large roasts, full-size baking trays and multiple items are difficult
- Temperature consistency may not match a dedicated oven
- Cooking results, while good, don't quite match a full-size oven for serious baking
Who Should Buy a Convection Microwave?
A convection microwave is ideal for:
- Studio and one-bedroom apartments without a full oven, or where bench space is very limited
- Supplementary cooking — using it alongside an oven to free up oven space for a large roast while baking side dishes in the microwave
- Renters who can't modify the kitchen but want more cooking capability than a standard microwave
- Small households (singles or couples) where cooking volumes are modest
Who Should Stick with a Regular Microwave?
If you have a full kitchen with a standard oven, a regular microwave is usually sufficient. The extra cost and complexity of a convection microwave isn't worth it if you already have an oven.
Popular Convection Microwave Brands
Samsung, LG, Panasonic and Sharp all make good convection microwaves available in Australia. Capacities range from 25L to 40L+.
Visit Oceania Appliances
We stock convection microwaves alongside our full range of ovens and kitchen appliances. Visit our showroom at 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park — open 7 days, 10am to 8pm. Free delivery across Sydney.