Looking for a microwave that doubles as a grill for crispy finishes and browned toppings? This guide highlights top microwaves with built-in grill functions, designed for faster weeknight dinners and apartment-friendly cooking. Best for busy households, small kitchens, and anyone who loves a browned, grilled texture without firing up a separate grill. Below you’ll find five standout options, each with clear reasons to choose, ideal buyers, and practical caveats. A quick summary table follows to help you compare at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emerson MWG1191SB | Crisping pizzas and browning casseroles | 1100W with built-in grill | Higher price |
| Emerson MWRG0901BK-A | Compact retro kitchens | Grill function plus retro design | Smaller interior cavity |
| TOSHIBA ML2-EC10SA(BS) A | All-in-one with convection | 8-in-1 versatility | May require learning curve |
| Emerson MWRG0901W | White retro kitchens | Grill function with 0.9 cu ft | Limited auto menus |
| Emerson MWRG0901RD | Bold kitchen accents | Red retro styling with grill | Single color option |
Emerson MWG1191SB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Microwave With Built-In Grill
The Emerson MWG1191SB combines a powerful 1100W microwave with a built-in grill function, making it a solid choice for households that want crisp pizzas, browned casseroles, and grilled finishes without a separate grill. It offers 11 power levels for precise cooking control and a stainless steel exterior for easy cleaning and a modern look. Best for cooks who prioritize a crisp finish on top of everyday reheating.
Who it’s best for: small to mid-size kitchens, lovers of crispy textures, and users who want versatile meals in one appliance. Why selected: high power and integrated grill provide reliable browning and versatility in one unit.
Caution: The larger footprint may take more counter space; ensure your counters can accommodate it. The product data notes a stainless steel exterior but does not specify interior dimensions here.
Emerson MWRG0901BK-A 0.9 Cu. Ft. Retro Microwave With 1,000W Grill
Emerson’s retro 0.9 cu. ft. microwave blends 800W microwave power with a built-in 1,000W grill function. The 5 power levels and 8 auto menus provide straightforward options for crispy pizzas, toasted sandwiches, and casseroles. Its compact retro design is ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or spaces where style and function meet. Best for: retro-enthusiasts who want a space-saving but capable grill-microwave combo.
Who it’s best for: shoppers seeking a compact, stylish unit with reliable grilling capability. Why selected: balanced power, useful auto menus, and space efficiency.
Caution: The smaller interior means larger meals may require batch cooking or shorter cooking intervals.
TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 With Convection
The Toshiba ML2-EC10SA(BS) A is an 8-in-1 countertop unit that combines microwaving, air frying, baking, broiling, convection, and odor removal modes. Its 1.0 cu. ft capacity and turntable add versatility for daily meals and snacks. Best for: households wanting an all-purpose appliance that minimizes clutter while providing multiple cooking techniques. Limitations: The feature set is broad, which may require a learning curve to use all modes effectively.
BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave With Air Fry and Convection
The BLACK+DECKER ES9P032NA provides five functions in one compact unit: microwave, air fry, bake, roast, and convection cooking. With 900 watts and 10 cooking levels plus 11 air fry presets, it suits users who want a versatile device without a larger footprint. Best for: those who need a budget-friendly all-in-one with solid air frying and convection capabilities. Limitation: air fryer performance may be less robust on very thick foods compared to dedicated air fryers.
Emerson MWRG0901W Retro Microwave With Grill
The Emerson MWRG0901W offers a white retro design with an integrated 1,000W grill and 800W microwave power. It features a compact 0.9 cu. ft. capacity across 5 power levels and 8 auto menus, plus a glass turntable and child lock. Best for: fans of vintage aesthetics who still want grill-assisted browning in a small footprint. Caution: The smaller interior could limit large-batch cooking.
Emerson MWRG0901RD Retro Microwave With Grill
The Emerson MWRG0901RD adds bold red retro styling to the grill-enabled microwave line. With 0.9 cu. ft. of space, 800W microwave power, and a 1,000W grill function, it delivers reliable browning on a compact footprint. Best for: kitchens seeking a statement piece that still delivers grill capability. Limitation: Red color may not suit every kitchen decor, and the interior space remains limited for large meals.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Microwave With Grill Function
When selecting a microwave with a grill function, focus on how you cook most often, space constraints, and cleaning convenience. Below are practical considerations to help you compare models.
- Power and cooking options: Look for a high microwave wattage (around 800–1100W) and a robust grill wattage (1000W is common) for faster browning and reliable crisping.
- Size and capacity: Measure countertop space and interior capacity. Larger interiors are better for casseroles and multiple portions; smaller boxes save space but may require batches.
- Preset menus and auto cook: Auto menus help with common tasks like pizza, bread, or frozen foods. More presets = easier daily use, but ensure the options fit your typical meals.
- Design and finish: Stainless steel is easy to clean and durable, while retro designs add style. Consider color and exterior finish to match your kitchen.
- Safety features: Child lock and door interlocks are important for households with children. Check for easy-to-use controls and clear displays.
- Maintenance needs: Removable glass turntables simplify cleaning. Look for accessible interior surfaces and dishwasher-safe components where possible.
Practical Buying Tips
- Choose a model with a grill function if your priority is browning and crisping foods like pizzas, sandwiches, and casseroles.
- Consider a unit with a turntable if you regularly cook evenly across a dish; non-turntable models may require rotating food manually.
- For small kitchens, prioritize compact footprints and weight. If you entertain often, a larger model with more presets can reduce prep time.
FAQ
- What is a microwave with grill function best for? It is best for browning, crisping, and finishing foods with a grilled texture without using an outdoor grill.
- Do all microwaves with grill require a vent or special outlet? Most do not require special outlets, but check your kitchen’s electrical capacity and the unit’s plug type.
- Are grill-equipped microwaves easy to clean? Yes, but some models with painted or glossy exteriors may show fingerprints; choose stainless steel for easier maintenance.
- Can a grill microwave replace a conventional oven? For some tasks, yes, especially for small portions and quick browning, but for large meals you may still need a full-size oven.
- Is a larger microwave better for grilling? A larger interior offers more cooking space and even browning for bigger dishes but takes more counter space.
- Do grill microwaves consume more energy? They can, due to the grill element, but efficient models balance power and features to minimize impact.