Best Microwave Oven with Grill (2026)
Finding the right microwave oven with grill functionality has been a game-changer for my small kitchen. As a home cook who hates clutter, I need appliances that pull double duty without sacrificing performance.
After testing several models this year, the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 stands out as my favorite for versatility, while the Nuwave Bravo XL Pro offers a truly premium experience for those who prioritize crisping power over everything else.
A quality microwave oven with grill isn't just about reheating leftovers; it is about achieving that perfect golden-brown finish on a grilled cheese or roasted vegetables when your main oven is already occupied.
In this guide, I have broken down the top contenders based on my real-world kitchen tests, focusing on cleanup, counter footprint, and actual cooking results to help you find your perfect match.
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Best Overall | BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo | Power: 900W | Capacity: 0.9 Cu. Ft. | Controls: Digital Touch | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Best Budget | BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven | Power: 700W | Capacity: 0.7 Cu. Ft. | Controls: Push-button | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Best Premium | Nuwave Bravo XL Pro Air Fryer Toaster Oven | Power: High-Heat | Capacity: Extra Large | Controls: Digital Precision | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Best Compact | KoolMore Reserve Built-in Microwave Convection Oven | Power: 1000W | Capacity: 1.2 Cu. Ft. | Controls: Soft-Touch | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Best Value | FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave | Power: 1100W | Capacity: 1.2 Cu. Ft. | Controls: Digital Panel | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Best Stainless | TOSHIBA OptiChef PRO MAX Air Fryer Combo | Power: 1100W | Capacity: 1.3 Cu. Ft. | Controls: Color Screen | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Best Nonstick | Emerson Retro Microwave with Grill | Power: 800W | Capacity: 0.9 Cu. Ft. | Controls: Dial & Button | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Runner Up | Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven | Power: 1000W | Capacity: 1.1 Cu. Ft. | Controls: Express Touch | View Latest Price | Read Review |
After testing these top-rated models, I found that choosing the right microwave oven with grill comes down to balancing your specific cooking habits with your available counter space.
Product Comparison: Best Microwave Oven with Grill (2026)
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BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo
- Power900W
- Capacity0.9 Cu. Ft.
- ControlsDigital Touch
- Grill FunctionYes
- Best forSmall families
- Standout5-in-1 functionality
This unit is easily the most impressive all-rounder I have tested this year. It handles everything from quick defrosting to actual convection roasting with surprising ease.
It is perfect for anyone living in an apartment where counter space is at a premium but you still want the functionality of a full-sized oven.
During my testing, the grill feature produced a great char on chicken thighs, saving me from firing up the outdoor grill on a rainy weeknight.
The trade-off is that the internal cavity feels a bit tight when using the air fry rack, making it tricky to clean if you have a messy spill.
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BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven
- Power700W
- Capacity0.7 Cu. Ft.
- ControlsPush-button
- Grill FunctionYes
- Best forDorm rooms
- StandoutAffordability
If you are on a strict budget, this is the best microwave oven with grill for your wallet. It keeps things simple and gets the job done without unnecessary bells and whistles.
It is clearly designed for students or anyone needing a secondary unit for a guest suite or basement kitchen.
I found the grill function to be surprisingly effective for melting cheese on toast, though it takes a bit longer than higher-wattage models.
The smaller size means you won't be fitting any large casserole dishes inside, so expect to cook in smaller, individual batches.
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Nuwave Bravo XL Pro Air Fryer Toaster Oven
- PowerHigh-Heat
- CapacityExtra Large
- ControlsDigital Precision
- Grill FunctionYes
- Best forSerious home cooks
- StandoutCrisping speed
This is a powerhouse. When you need a microwave oven with grill that actually acts like a high-end convection oven, this is the one to beat.
It is aimed at serious home cooks who want to replace their toaster oven and microwave with a single, high-performance machine.
The convection system is genuinely fast; I was able to roast vegetables in half the time it usually takes in my wall oven.
Because it is so powerful, you have to be careful with your settings, as it can overcook delicate items if you aren't paying attention.
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KoolMore Reserve Built-in Microwave Convection Oven
- Power1000W
- Capacity1.2 Cu. Ft.
- ControlsSoft-Touch
- Grill FunctionYes
- Best forModern kitchens
- StandoutSoft-close door
The design of this unit is stunning. It fits perfectly into a modern kitchen, and the soft-close door feels incredibly premium.
This is for the homeowner who values aesthetics just as much as they value the ability to air fry or grill their dinner.
The sensor cook features actually work, which is a rare treat, and the grill function provides a nice, even browning on top of dishes.
Installation can be a bit involved since it is designed to be built-in, so ensure you have the right cabinet dimensions before buying.
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FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave
- Power1100W
- Capacity1.2 Cu. Ft.
- ControlsDigital Panel
- Grill FunctionYes
- Best forLarge families
- StandoutXL capacity
If you have a big family, this is the best microwave oven with grill for handling large portions without needing multiple rounds of cooking.
It is a workhorse that feels sturdy and reliable, perfect for heavy daily use in a busy household kitchen.
I loved the XL capacity; it comfortably fit a large baking dish that my previous microwave couldn't handle.
The footprint is significant, so make sure you have enough counter depth before committing to this larger model.
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TOSHIBA OptiChef PRO MAX Air Fryer Combo
- Power1100W
- Capacity1.3 Cu. Ft.
- ControlsColor Screen
- Grill FunctionYes
- Best forTech enthusiasts
- StandoutInverter tech
The color screen and inverter technology make this feel like a piece of space-age equipment in my kitchen.
It is perfect for anyone who loves gadgets and wants precise control over their heating and grilling cycles.
The inverter tech means food is heated much more evenly than in older, traditional microwaves, which is a huge plus for leftovers.
The interface can be a bit overwhelming at first, so you will definitely need to spend some time with the manual to master all the modes.
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Emerson Retro Microwave with Grill
- Power800W
- Capacity0.9 Cu. Ft.
- ControlsDial & Button
- Grill FunctionYes
- Best forDesign-focused homes
- StandoutRetro styling
This is the most stylish microwave oven with grill I have ever had on my counter. It brings a fun, vintage vibe to the kitchen.
It is ideal for someone who wants their appliances to double as decor while still performing the necessary cooking tasks.
The grill function is surprisingly capable, providing that extra bit of heat needed for finishing off a sandwich or a slice of pizza.
Because of the retro design, the display is less sophisticated than modern digital units, which might be a drawback for those who prefer absolute precision.
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Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven
- Power1000W
- Capacity1.1 Cu. Ft.
- ControlsExpress Touch
- Grill FunctionYes
- Best forQuick daily use
- StandoutExpress presets
Chefman has delivered a very solid, no-nonsense appliance here. It is a reliable daily driver that doesn't try to overcomplicate the cooking process.
This is perfect for busy professionals who need to heat up food quickly and want a grill option for a bit of extra texture.
The express presets are genuinely useful for my morning coffee or a quick mid-day snack, saving me seconds that add up over the week.
The finish shows fingerprints quite easily, so you will find yourself wiping down the front panel more often than you might like.
What to Look for in Best Microwave Oven with Grill
Grilling Power and Wattage
Look for high grilling wattage to ensure your food develops a crispy, golden-brown crust. Powerful heating elements are essential for achieving that authentic seared texture.
Versatile Cooking Modes
Prioritize units that offer multi-stage cooking, allowing you to switch seamlessly between microwave heating and convection grilling. This flexibility is the secret to perfectly cooked meals.
Interior Capacity and Size
Measure your counter depth carefully, as these hybrid units are often bulkier than standard microwaves. Opt for a spacious interior if you plan to grill whole chickens or large trays.
Ease of Cleaning
Grilling creates splatters, so a non-stick interior or removable grill rack is a must. These features make post-dinner cleanup significantly less time-consuming.
Intuitive Control Panels
Select a model with pre-programmed settings for grilling and convection to take the guesswork out of your recipes. Clear, responsive buttons improve your overall user experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a microwave with a grill replace my traditional oven?
For smaller meals and quick bakes, absolutely. They are excellent for roasting, grilling, and reheating, though they may lack the capacity for very large holiday roasts.
Do I need special cookware for the grill mode?
Yes, you must use metal-safe or grill-safe accessories provided with the unit. Never use standard plastic or non-heat-resistant glass while the grill element is active.
Is the grilling function as good as an outdoor grill?
It provides a similar browning and crisping effect, but it won't impart a smoky, charcoal flavor. It is perfect for achieving a restaurant-style sear on meats and vegetables indoors.
How do I prevent smoke when using the grill setting?
Always keep the interior clean of grease buildup and ensure the unit is properly ventilated. Using the grill rack at the correct height helps prevent excessive splattering.
Are these microwaves louder than standard models?
They can be slightly louder due to the additional convection fans needed to circulate air. Most users find the noise level perfectly acceptable for a kitchen appliance.
Does the grill mode cook food faster?
It combines the speed of microwave energy with the browning power of a heating element. This hybrid approach generally results in faster cooking times compared to a traditional convection oven.