The Magic Pot, an additional $99 accessory for this model, was a unique cooking tool across all of the microwaves I looked at. This microwave-safe pot works in all four modes (microwave, convection, air fryer, and broil). It lets you steam, grill, sear, and simmer. I used the Magic Pot to steam Barramundi filets with great results. At $500 (plus $329 for the trim kit), this unit is spendy, but the quality is evident. The Breville got the nod here thanks to some of the extra little design features like the soft-close door.
Samsung 1.2 cu. ft. Countertop Microwave with Power Convection in Black Glass
The Samsung microwave is the only model we tested that opens like an oven—from the top down. This feature alone gives it a sleek, high-end. An available trim kit gives consumers the option to build this unit into their kitchen like a wall oven. Like the Panasonic model, there are no numerical buttons. A dial and touch screen control the settings. While I had no issues with them, this was the only unit that my older children could not figure out how to use independently.
The Samsung comes with WiFi connectivity for app and voice control, which, while neat did not strike me and all that useful. The large tray fits several servings easily and serves up homemade fries at the perfect crispiness using the air fry feature. The Power Convection mode worked well for juicy chicken thighs, too. And the enameled interior, which is similar to the LG model, wipes clean with little effort.
Toshiba 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
At $219 at the time of writing, this Toshiba microwave is another great entry point for consumers looking to explore a fancy new multi-function unit without a big investment. We tested the microwave, air frying, convection cooking, and combi modes on snacks and side dishes with good results. Since the product description touts the ability to cook a whole 12-inch pizza in this microwave, I tried that too with results similar to what I get from my range. This would be a good option for dorm dwellers and their supply of convenience foods. The child lock on the Toshiba releases with a small lever on the handle, which my six-year-old was able to figure out quickly. For families with mischievous kids, another unit with a more robust child lock, like the Samsung or GE models, would be better.
Kenmore 0.9 Cu. Ft. Microwave Oven
This basic microwave comes in three wattages—700, 900, and 1000—and we chose to test the mid-tier model. It retails for just under $100 on Amazon and comes with no surprises, good or bad. Simple controls denote how to reheat and defrost food. The one-touch start for 30 seconds and 1-6 minute settings are a nice touch, as well. This microwave did slide around on the countertop—it could benefit from a set of rubber grips like most other microwaves have (you can get some aftermarket grips here).
Whirlpool – 2.2 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave with Sensor Cooking
This large countertop microwave packs a lot of power, making it a solid choice for large families or users who work with large batches of food often. The Sensor Cooking feature uses inverter technology, like several other units we tested, to avoid cold spots or dry edges on food. This worked well, and the 1200-watt power level heated food quickly. The Steam Clean feature removed caked-on spaghetti sauce splatters without any additional abrasives or chemical sprays, which is a plus as I try to keep my family healthy.
Whirlpool 1.9 Cu. Ft. Convection Microwave with Air Fry Mode
Thanks to a mistake in shipping I also had the chance to use Whirlpool’s over-the-range microwave. While I focused this testing on countertop models, I’m including what I found with this one as well. Thealso has a steam cooking and grill mode with an included trivet and cooking basket large enough for family meals. I appreciated that the air fry basket has two attached silicone grips on each side—every other model requires the use of potholders to avoid burns, so this little touch stood out to me. The convection baking option turns this microwave into a second oven, which is a huge plus. In a kitchen like mine, without space to add a wall oven or countertop microwave with a trim kit, this over-the-range model is a simple way to double our cooking capacity.
KitchenAid Countertop Microwave with Air Fry Function
This oven is loaded with great features that make it easy to use, especially for people who might find combination microwave/air fry/convection ovens overwhelming. Most of the units I tested have some shortcut buttons pre-set to specific foods, but my family particularly liked the categories on the KitchenAid unit. It was simple for my teens and tween to choose one of the included pans and select the right setting for their meal. The options include favs like chicken nuggets, french fries, cookies, and frozen pizza. There’s also a quick set button for asparagus and broccoli.
I tested out P10, the preset mode for a roast pork loin—it made great carnitas. At $647, this model is one of the pricier ovens I looked at. But a trim kit means you could incorporate it into a kitchen remodel—the sleek design would blend well with lots of design aesthetics. Overall, I think the quality of this oven justifies the high price point, but if you’re looking to explore a combination unit you can get similar features for half the price with the GE model.
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