What Is a Convection Microwave?

A convection microwave combines the standard features of a conventional microwave oven with an additional convection heating element that can help roast, bake and crisp your favorite foods.

Because of this added functionality, convection microwaves are a versatile kitchen tool that can help you multitask and expand your menu. Read on below to learn more about convection microwaves and their benefits to help you decide whether it’s the right match for the way you make.

What is the difference between a microwave and a convection microwave?

The main difference between conventional and convection microwaves is their heating elements. Traditional microwaves cook food using electromagnetic waves, while convection microwaves have an additional heating element and fan to circulate heat throughout the cavity.

Because of this oven-like heating element, you can use a convection microwave to bake, broil or roast smaller portions of your favorite recipes.

• Cooking Methods: Convection microwaves come with an additional heating element that allows you to bake, broil or roast small dishes. They may also feature Air Fry Mode, which may replace a countertop air fryer for all of the crisping with none of the clutter. Conventional microwaves typically offer features like defrosting and reheating, without the crispy results.

• Primary Use: Convection microwaves allow you to bake, broil or roast small dishes. Conventional microwaves, on the other hand, are typically used mostly for defrosting and reheating.

• Benefits / Limitations: If you are unable to install an oven in your space, a convection microwave can be a good alternative. They are also handy if you cook a lot of side dishes and simply need another cooking space in addition to your oven. They typically offer some of the same features as a traditional oven, in addition to the defrosting and reheating abilities that a conventional microwave offers.

What is the difference between a convection oven and a convection microwave?

A convection microwave cooks food similar to a convection oven when the convection setting is activated. Convection microwaves are much smaller appliances than ovens and can be installed as a built-in, over-the-range or simply placed on your countertop.

Convection ovens are larger appliances that occupy more space in your kitchen and can cook multiple dishes and larger portions than convection microwaves. Learn more about the differences between convection ovens and microwaves.

• Cooking Methods: Convection ovens use a fan to circulate heated air around dishes, helping create browned, crispy foods. Convection microwaves combine the features of a traditional microwave and convection oven, allowing you to reheat and defrost foods in addition to baking, roasting and grilling foods.

• Size and Capacity: Convection ovens typically have a larger cooking capacity and tend to take up more space than convection microwaves, which tend to be best for smaller dishes.

• Speed: Certain items may cook faster in a convection microwave, as the convection element and microwave work simultaneously. Plus, racks allow you to cook multiple smaller dishes at once.

SHOP KITCHENAID^®MICROWAVES WITH AIR FRY MODE

KitchenAid^® microwaves help bring convenience and versatility to your meals. Explore KitchenAid^® microwaves with features like Air Fry Function, which can replace a countertop air fryer for all of the crisping with none of the clutter. Select KitchenAid^® microwaves also come with Infrared Sensor Mode, which provides intuitive assistance to smoothly melt chocolate, defrost frozen chicken without cooking the edges and help prevent splatters.

How do convection microwaves work?

In addition to usual microwave functions, convection microwaves work using a feature that transforms your microwave into a miniature convection oven. A heating element and fan work together to circulate heat throughout the interior of the microwave, allowing you to unlock your culinary creativity with techniques like baking, grilling and roasting.

Benefits of convection microwaves

There are several benefits to adding a convection microwave to your kitchen. 

• Convection cooking capabilities: If you currently own a conventional oven, you can still create with convection heat without having to replace a large appliance.

• Multifunctional modes: You can use convection microwaves as a standard microwave or as a convection oven to grill, bake and roast.

• Cook multiple dishes at once: Many models come equipped with multiple racks so you can cook more than one dish at a time when inspiration strikes.

• Fast cooking times: The convection element and microwave cook simultaneously in convection microwaves, allowing for fast cooking times on certain items.

• Distributes heat evenly: The fan in a convection microwave helps circulate hot air around the food, helping your dishes cook evenly across multiple racks.

• Easy cleanup: Due to its smaller size, a convection microwave may be easier to clean after using.

CONVECTION MICROWAVE COOKING TIPS

Convection microwaves typically have a similar layout to conventional microwaves, with buttons such as “Cook Time” and “Cook Power,” which preheat the convection microwave. Any added features may have their own set of instructions and accessories, such as an Air Fryer Basket or baking tray. Always check your owner’s manual for specific appliance guidance.

When should you not use a convection oven?

Though convection heat is a great option for juicy roasts, bubbly casseroles, crisp veggies and homemade cookies, you may want to avoid using it on more delicate recipes. Cakes, custards and soufflés may rise unevenly and become a bit dry when baked using convection heat.

Can you put metal in a convection microwave oven?

Yes, you can place metals like aluminum foil or small baking sheets in convection microwaves, but only when the appliance is in convection mode. Never use metal inside a convection microwave while it is using traditional microwave heating.

Can a convection microwave replace an oven?

A convection microwave can be a great supplement to a standard sized oven, or possibly used in a space where you are unable to install a traditional oven. However, you may not want to replace the appliance completely. Convection microwaves are not designed to prepare large portions of food as they simply don’t have the internal capacity.

Learn more about different microwave dimensions to find the best fit for your home.

Shop KitchenAid^®Convection Microwaves

You can open the door to new creative possibilities with the help of a KitchenAid^® convection microwave in built-in, over-the-range and countertop options. Enjoy standard microwave features and convection heating in addition to convenient features on select models like this KitchenAid^® microwave with the Sensor Steam Cycle that allows precision steaming or simmering based on the food type and doneness level selected. Browse KitchenAid brand’s entire collection of convection microwaves to find the right fit for your kitchen.