The 4 Best Energy-Efficient Convection Microwave Ovens for Small Kitchens

FAQs

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

First available in the 70s, microwave ovens use an electron tube to produce microwaves, which are reflected off the oven walls. Microwaves cause water molecules in food to vibrate, which creates heat that cooks the food. Foods that are high in water content, like fresh veggies, cook faster than other items in the microwave. Microwaves are efficient because the energy heats only the food, not the whole oven.

Convection ovens were created in 1967 and were used first by professional bakers, but they’ve become increasingly available for home use during the last decade. A convection oven uses a fan and exhaust to circulate air and keep the temperature constant, which reduces cooking time and hot spots in dishes. It also decreases the amount of moisture in the oven to crisp up foods..

What are the pros and cons of a convection oven?

A convection oven bakes foods such as vegetables or casseroles faster and often can be used at a lower temperature than in a conventional oven. Because of better heat circulation, you also can bake multiple foods on different racks at the same time. But convection isn’t ideal for every type of food; for example, some items such as baked goods require more moisture to achieve the correct texture, and moisture is reduced by the fan system in a convection oven.

Convection microwaves also are handy as a second oven when entertaining or for holiday meals because there’s no more trying to figure out when to put what in the oven to have it all done at once.

What should I look for in an energy-efficient microwave?

Unlike other household appliances such as refrigerators, there’s no EPA EnergyStar label or recommendations for microwave ovens. However, microwaves are more energy efficient in general than conventional cooking because foods cook faster and the energy heats only the food, not the whole oven.

Another benefit? Foods also may retain more nutrients because they’re cooked quickly and without adding water. Microwaves range from 700 watts to 1200 watts. If you plan to cook meals or reheat casseroles, a full-size unit (usually defined as 900 to 1000 watts) makes sense. Some units also offer an Eco Mode function, which shuts off the display panel when not in use.

Why Trust Treehugger?

We researched the market based on reviews and reliability ratings of these units. Arricca SanSone writes for many print and digital publications about home, garden, and lifestyle. Her GE Convection Microwave is her best friend during the summer when she hates heating up the kitchen.