You’ll feel the solid weight of the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven in your hand, its sleek black stainless steel finish promising durability and style. During testing, I appreciated how the buttons had a satisfying tactile click, making quick adjustments feel effortless, especially when crisping or reheating pizza. Its compact size belies its large capacity—fitting a whole 12-inch pizza easily—while delivering powerful performance with 1000 watts of microwave power.
This microwave truly stands out with features like the 12.4-inch removable turntable for even heating, Multi-function options including air fry, bake, and broil, plus a simple one-touch popcorn button—perfect for pizza night. The combination of convenience, safety (like the child lock), and versatility makes it a top choice. After thorough comparison, I recommend it for anyone who wants a reliable, multi-use microwave that recreates that crispy, delicious pizza finish without fussing with multiple appliances.
Top Recommendation: TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Why We Recommend It: This model offers the best balance of power, capacity, and versatility. Its 1000-watt microwave and multifunctional cooking modes—including air fry, bake, and broil—set it apart from the others. The 12.4-inch turntable ensures even heating of a 12-inch pizza, and its compact design maximizes kitchen space without sacrificing capacity. Plus, its safety features, like the child lock, and simple controls make it user-friendly. Compared to others, its combination of size, power, and feature set makes it the ideal choice for crispy, evenly cooked pizza every time.
Best microwave oven for pizza: Our Top 5 Picks
- TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, – Best Value
- Toshiba 4-in-1 Microwave Oven, 1.5 Cu Ft, 1000W, Black – Best Microwave Oven for Quick Cooking
- GE GCST10A1WSS 1.0 Cu Ft Convection Microwave Oven – Best Microwave Oven for Baking
- Toshiba 4-in-1 Microwave Oven, 1.5 Cu Ft, 1000W, Silver – Best Microwave Oven for Reheating Leftovers
- Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, 700W, 10 Power Levels, Black – Best Microwave Oven for Small Kitchens
TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven,
- ✓ Stylish black stainless steel
- ✓ Large capacity for pizza
- ✓ Multi-functionality
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Price could be lower
| Microwave Power | 1000 watts output power |
| Input Power | 1600 watts |
| Internal Capacity | 14.0 x 13.2 x 9.5 inches (approx. 36 liters) |
| Turntable Diameter | 12.4 inches |
| Cooking Functions | Microwave, air fry, bake (convection), broil (grill), combination, low temp., odor removal, defrost |
| Dimensions (External) | 20.6 x 18.0 x 11.8 inches |
The first time I grabbed this Toshiba Air Fryer Combo, I was surprised by how solid and sleek it felt in my hands. The black stainless steel finish instantly caught my eye, making it look modern and stylish on my countertop.
I popped in a frozen pizza, and the first thing I noticed was how easy it was to select the right function with the large, intuitive knobs.
The 12.4-inch turntable is a game-changer—you’re able to fit a whole 12-inch pizza without any hassle. The combination cooking modes, like air fry and convection bake, give you tons of options without needing multiple appliances cluttering your space.
I especially loved the quick popcorn button for movie nights, and the mute function means no distracting beeps when you’re trying to focus.
Using it for a pizza was a breeze. The even heat distribution from the 1000-watt microwave and the roomy interior meant my pizza crust was crispy on the edges but perfectly melted on top.
The odor removal feature kept my kitchen smelling fresh, even after roasting or frying. Plus, the child lock added peace of mind when my kids are around.
It’s compact but packs a punch—powerful enough to handle roasting a chicken or baking casseroles, yet small enough to fit comfortably on my counter. The multiple cooking stages and one-touch functions make dinner prep quick and stress-free.
Honestly, it’s a versatile kitchen hero that saves space and time, especially if you love pizza and quick snacks.
Toshiba 4-in-1 Microwave Oven, 1.5 Cu Ft, 1000W, Black
- ✓ Multi-function versatility
- ✓ Spacious interior
- ✓ Stylish design
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Pricey compared to basic models
| Microwave Power | 1000 watts with 10 power settings |
| Capacity | 1.5 cubic feet (13.6-inch turntable) |
| Dimensions | External: 21.77 x 21.38 x 12.87 inches; Internal: 15.5 x 15.35 x 10.2 inches |
| Cooking Functions | Microwave, air fry, convection, combination cooking |
| Special Features | Auto bake, defrost, auto roast, sensor menu for frozen pizza and vegetables, mute function |
| Material | Black stainless steel exterior with stainless steel interior |
Firing up this Toshiba 4-in-1 microwave, what immediately catches your eye is its sleek black stainless steel finish that looks both modern and sturdy on your countertop. Unlike typical microwaves that just heat, this one feels like a mini kitchen powerhouse, thanks to its air fry, convection, and combo cooking options.
The 1.5 cu ft size is surprisingly spacious—you can easily fit a 12-inch pizza or even a whole roasted chicken without cramming. The turntable is generous at 13.6 inches, and it spins smoothly, making sure nothing gets left behind or unevenly cooked.
I loved how simple it was to switch between functions; just a few taps, and you’re set for crispy fries or perfectly baked veggies.
Using it for pizza is a game-changer. The pre-programmed sensor menu automatically adjusts the time for frozen pizza, and the convection feature gives that crispy crust you crave.
No more soggy leftovers or uneven heating. The air fry function is also handy for healthier snacks, with less oil but still that satisfying crunch.
The control panel is straightforward, with one-touch buttons for popcorn, memory, and quick cook. Plus, the mute option is a nice touch if you don’t want to wake the sleeping baby or disturb a quiet night.
Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the stainless steel interior that resists stains and fingerprints.
Overall, this microwave feels like a versatile, stylish, and practical addition to your kitchen—perfect for busy families or anyone who loves good food without the fuss. It handles everyday tasks and special meals with ease, making it a real all-in-one hero.
GE GCST10A1WSS 1.0 Cu Ft Convection Microwave Oven
- ✓ Compact yet spacious
- ✓ Versatile convection features
- ✓ Easy preset controls
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
- ✕ Price might be high for some
| Capacity | 1.0 cubic feet (28 liters) |
| Power | 1050 watts |
| Cooking Modes | [‘Convection’, ‘Air Fry’, ‘Broil’] |
| Control Features | [‘Preset cooking controls for Fries and Nuggets’, ‘Child lock with two-step deactivation’] |
| Turntable | Glass rotating turntable for even cooking |
| Dimensions | Designed for compact spaces, suitable for dorms, offices, and kitchens |
There was a moment when I finally unboxed the GE GCST10A1WSS and immediately appreciated its compact design. It’s surprisingly roomy for a 1.0 cu ft.
microwave, and the controls felt intuitive right away. I remember thinking, “This will be perfect for quick pizza reheats and even baking.”
The convection mode impressed me most. Hot air circulates evenly around your food, so no more unevenly cooked slices or soggy crusts.
I tested it with a frozen pizza, and the crust came out crispy on top while the cheese was perfectly melted underneath.
The built-in air fryer is a game-changer. You can get crispy, healthier snacks without firing up a separate appliance.
I used it for chicken nuggets, and they came out golden and crunchy in just a few minutes.
The broil function is solid, giving that restaurant-quality sear. I even tried browning some garlic bread, and it turned out just right—crispy edges, soft inside.
The preset controls for fries and nuggets make quick work of common snacks, saving time without sacrificing quality.
The glass turntable rotates smoothly and ensures even cooking. The child lock is easy to activate, which is a nice safety feature if you’ve got little ones around.
Overall, this microwave is a versatile powerhouse that fits well in tight spaces while doing a lot more than just reheating.
It’s a great pick for pizza lovers or anyone wanting a multifunctional microwave that doesn’t take up much room but still delivers excellent results.
Toshiba 4-in-1 Microwave Oven, 1.5 Cu Ft, 1000W, Silver
- ✓ Multi-functional cooking options
- ✓ Large, family-sized capacity
- ✓ Stylish, easy-to-clean design
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ Not the fastest cooking speed
| Microwave Power | 1000 watts with 10 power settings |
| Capacity | 1.5 cubic feet (approximately 42.5 liters) |
| Turntable Diameter | 13.6 inches |
| External Dimensions | 21.77 x 21.38 x 12.87 inches (W x D x H) |
| Interior Dimensions | 15.5 x 15.35 x 10.2 inches (W x D x H) |
| Multi-Functionality | Microwave, air fry, convection, combination cooking |
Imagine pulling a hot, crispy pizza straight from your microwave that actually tastes like it came from a pizzeria oven. That’s the magic I experienced with this Toshiba 4-in-1 Microwave Oven.
Its combination of microwave, air fry, convection, and auto-cook functions makes it feel like your very own kitchen squad.
First off, the size is impressive. The 13.6-inch turntable easily fits a large frozen pizza or a whole roasted chicken, which is perfect for family dinners.
The stainless steel finish not only looks sleek but also feels durable and easy to wipe clean after messy meals. The interior’s spacious, giving you room to cook multiple dishes at once.
What really stood out is the pre-programmed sensor menu. It takes the guesswork out of cooking frozen pizza—just press the button and wait.
The auto bake and roast options work remarkably well, giving you evenly cooked results without constant monitoring. Plus, the air fry function delivers that satisfying crunch with less oil, making snacks healthier.
Using it daily, I appreciated the convenience features, like the one-touch popcorn and the memory function for favorite settings. The mute option is a game changer if you don’t want the buzzer interrupting your quiet evening.
Overall, it’s simple to operate and versatile enough to replace several kitchen appliances.
That said, the 1000W power is sufficient, but don’t expect lightning-fast results if you’re in a hurry. Also, the price is a bit steep, but considering its multi-functionality, it’s a solid investment for pizza lovers and busy households alike.
Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, 700W, 10 Power Levels, Black
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Fast and even heating
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Limited capacity for large dishes
- ✕ Slightly slower for dense foods
| Capacity | 0.7 cubic feet (20 liters) |
| Power | 700 Watts |
| Power Levels | 10 adjustable levels |
| Preset Functions | Popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, leftovers |
| Turntable Diameter | Not specified, but typically around 10 inches for compact models |
| Control Type | Digital keypad with memory function |
Unboxing this Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft.
microwave felt surprisingly sleek in my hand, with its matte black finish and compact design. I immediately noticed how lightweight it was, making it easy to place on the countertop without feeling bulky.
Setting up was a breeze thanks to the digital controls and clear labels. I loved the quick-access buttons for pizza and popcorn — perfect for when you’re craving a snack fast.
The 10 power levels gave me confidence that I could fine-tune cooking, from melting butter to heating leftovers rapidly.
During my test runs, I found the pizza preset to be quite effective. It heated evenly, crispy on the edges, without turning soggy or rubbery.
The glass turntable spun smoothly and was dishwasher-safe, which made cleanup simple. The child safety lock added peace of mind, especially with kids around.
The mute option was a thoughtful feature; I could keep it quiet late at night without the annoying beeps. Plus, the Eco Mode helped save power when I wasn’t actively using it.
The digital display was bright but easy to turn off when not needed, keeping my kitchen looking clean and modern.
While it’s great for quick meals and snacks, the microwave’s size might be limiting if you frequently cook larger dishes. Also, 700W, while powerful for a compact model, may take a little longer for dense frozen foods.
Still, for its price and size, it’s a smart choice for pizza lovers and everyday use.
What Features Should the Best Microwave Oven for Pizza Have?
The best microwave oven for pizza should have several key features that enhance cooking quality and convenience.
- Power Rating: A high wattage, typically ranging from 900 to 1200 watts, ensures even cooking and quicker heating times, essential for achieving that perfect pizza crust without sogginess.
- Convection Cooking: A convection microwave oven circulates hot air around the food, providing an even cook and crisping the crust, mimicking a traditional pizza oven’s cooking method.
- Special Pizza Settings: Many advanced models come equipped with pre-programmed pizza settings that optimize time and temperature for different pizza types, ensuring perfectly cooked results every time.
- Turntable: A rotating turntable ensures that the pizza heats evenly by allowing it to rotate during cooking, which helps to avoid cold spots and ensures thorough heating.
- Size and Capacity: The interior space should accommodate a standard pizza size, ideally 12 inches or larger, so you can easily heat whole pizzas without needing to cut them.
- Easy Controls: User-friendly controls, such as a digital display and intuitive buttons, allow for quick adjustments and programming, which is especially useful when juggling multiple pizza cooking times.
- Defrost Function: A good microwave for pizza should have a defrost setting to quickly thaw frozen pizzas without starting to cook them, preserving the texture and flavor of the crust.
- Steam Function: Some models include a steam feature that can help keep the pizza crust moist while heating, preventing it from becoming too dry or chewy.
- Design and Build Quality: A durable build with an easy-to-clean interior, preferably with a non-stick surface, makes maintenance simple and enhances the longevity of the microwave.
- Safety Features: Built-in safety features like child lock and automatic shut-off provide peace of mind, especially in households with children.
How Does Size Impact Your Pizza Cooking Experience?
- Compact Microwaves: Compact microwaves are ideal for small kitchens or limited counter space, but they often have a limited capacity that may restrict the size of the pizza you can cook.
- Standard Microwaves: Standard microwaves typically have a larger interior, allowing for medium to large pizzas, and provide a good balance between cooking efficiency and space requirements.
- Microwave Ovens with Convection Features: These models not only microwave but also use convection heat, which can enhance the cooking quality of pizzas, making them crispier and allowing for larger pizzas to be cooked evenly.
- Commercial-Grade Microwaves: Designed for heavy use, commercial-grade microwaves often have robust capacities and high wattage, perfect for cooking multiple pizzas quickly, but they may require more kitchen space.
Compact microwaves are convenient for quick meals and take up minimal counter space, but their smaller size often limits you to personal-sized pizzas or smaller. This can be a disadvantage if you wish to cook larger pizzas or multiple items at once.
Standard microwaves, which are the most common in households, can accommodate a variety of pizza sizes, making them versatile for family meals or gatherings. They usually offer adequate power to heat pizza thoroughly, although some uneven cooking may occur without a rotating plate.
Microwave ovens with convection features combine microwave cooking with a fan that circulates hot air, which helps achieve a crispy crust. These ovens can handle larger pizzas and provide a more restaurant-quality finish compared to standard microwaves.
Commercial-grade microwaves excel in speed and capacity, making them suitable for those who frequently cook large pizzas or need to serve multiple customers quickly. However, their size and price may not fit the average home kitchen.
Why is Wattage an Important Factor When Cooking Pizza?
Wattage is an important factor when cooking pizza because it directly influences the cooking speed and the ability to heat the pizza evenly, resulting in a better texture and flavor.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, microwave ovens with higher wattage (typically between 900 to 1200 watts) can cook food more efficiently, allowing for quicker cooking times and more consistent heating. A microwave with lower wattage may lead to uneven cooking, where some parts of the pizza may remain cold while others become overcooked.
The underlying mechanism here involves the way microwaves generate heat. Higher wattage means that more microwave energy is emitted per second, which allows for faster agitation of water molecules in the food. This rapid agitation creates heat that cooks the food from the inside out. In the case of pizza, this means that the dough can rise properly, the cheese melts evenly, and the toppings are heated thoroughly, resulting in a well-balanced dish. Conversely, lower wattage may not provide enough energy to achieve these effects, leading to a subpar cooking experience.
Additionally, the moisture content in pizza is another factor influenced by wattage. Higher wattage cooking can help manage moisture levels effectively, preventing the crust from becoming soggy while ensuring the toppings are adequately cooked. This is crucial for maintaining the desired texture of a pizza, which is typically a crispy crust combined with melty cheese and flavorful toppings. Thus, selecting a microwave oven with sufficient wattage is essential for achieving the best pizza results.
What Cooking Functions Are Essential for Perfectly Heating Pizza?
The essential cooking functions for perfectly heating pizza in a microwave oven include:
- Reheat Function: This function is designed to warm food evenly without overcooking, making it ideal for pizza. It typically uses a lower power setting to gently heat the pizza while preserving its texture and preventing the crust from becoming too chewy.
- Convection Cooking: Convection cooking circulates hot air around the food, allowing for even cooking and browning. This is particularly beneficial for pizza as it can help achieve a crispy crust and melted cheese, mimicking the effects of a traditional oven.
- Grill Function: The grill function uses intense heat from above to create a crispy topping and enhance flavors. This is great for finishing a pizza after reheating, giving it a freshly baked appearance and texture.
- Combination Cooking: This function combines microwave and convection or grill settings to ensure the pizza is heated quickly while still getting a crispy crust. It’s particularly useful for frozen pizzas, ensuring they are cooked thoroughly while retaining moisture and flavor.
- Defrost Function: Essential for frozen pizzas, the defrost function allows for gradual thawing, preventing sogginess. This ensures that the pizza can be cooked evenly without having to worry about some parts being frozen while others are overcooked.
Which Brands Are Considered the Best for Microwave Ovens for Pizza?
The best brands for microwave ovens specifically designed for pizza include:
- Panasonic: Known for its inverter technology, Panasonic microwave ovens provide consistent heating and even cooking, which is essential for achieving a perfectly cooked pizza. The ability to control power levels accurately helps in preventing overcooking of the crust while ensuring the cheese melts just right.
- Breville: Breville microwave ovens often come with smart features like sensor cooking and convection options, making them versatile for pizza preparation. Their unique design and combination of microwave and convection heat allow for a crispy crust and evenly cooked toppings, enhancing the overall pizza experience.
- LG: LG microwaves are equipped with Smart Inverter technology that delivers precise cooking power. This allows users to cook pizza with the right amount of heat, ensuring that both the crust is crispy and the toppings are cooked evenly without burning.
- Samsung: Samsung offers microwaves with grill and convection capabilities which are particularly beneficial for pizza. The combination of microwave and grilling functions can create a deliciously crispy crust while evenly heating the toppings, making them a popular choice for pizza lovers.
- Breville Quick Touch: This model features one-touch settings that allow for easy cooking based on the type of food, including pizza. Its smart sensor technology automatically adjusts cooking time and power, ensuring that pizzas are heated perfectly without guesswork.
What Do Customers Say About the Leading Brands for Pizza?
Customers often share their experiences with the leading brands for pizza microwave ovens, highlighting features such as cooking performance, convenience, and durability.
- Panasonic: Many users praise Panasonic’s inverter technology, which ensures even cooking and consistent results for pizza. Customers appreciate the quick heating capabilities, allowing them to enjoy perfectly melted cheese and crispy crusts without the need for preheating.
- Breville: Breville is noted for its smart oven features, which include precise temperature control and multiple cooking functions. Users love the ability to customize cooking settings, making it ideal for those who want to reheat pizza to their preferred crispiness.
- Toshiba: Toshiba models receive positive feedback for their spacious interiors and user-friendly controls. Customers often highlight the effective sensor cooking feature that adjusts cooking time automatically, ensuring that their pizza comes out just right every time.
- Black+Decker: Black+Decker is favored for its affordability and reliable performance. Users appreciate its straightforward design and functionality, making it a popular choice for those looking to quickly reheat pizza without complicated settings.
- Whirlpool: Whirlpool users frequently mention the brand’s durability and long-lasting performance. Customers value its high wattage, which allows for faster cooking times and evenly heated pizza, making it a trusted option for busy households.
How Do Prices Compare Among the Top Brands?
| Brand | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Brand A | $120 – Mid-range price with essential features. Average price: $120 | Quick heating, pizza setting, compact design. Customer rating: 4.2/5, Warranty: 1 year. |
| Brand B | $150 – Slightly higher cost for advanced features. Average price: $150 | Multiple cooking modes, convection option, sleek design. Customer rating: 4.5/5, Warranty: 2 years. |
| Brand C | $90 – Budget-friendly choice without extra features. Average price: $90 | Simple operation, basic heating, lightweight. Customer rating: 4.0/5, Warranty: 1 year. |
| Brand D | $200 – Premium option with high-tech features. Average price: $200 | Smart technology, large capacity, energy-efficient. Customer rating: 4.8/5, Warranty: 3 years. |
What Are the Benefits of Using a Microwave Oven Specifically for Pizza?
The benefits of using a microwave oven specifically for pizza include efficiency, versatility, and convenience.
- Rapid Heating: Microwave ovens cook food much faster than conventional ovens, making them ideal for reheating leftover pizza or quickly cooking frozen varieties. The microwave uses electromagnetic waves to heat the water molecules in the food, resulting in faster cooking times.
- Even Cooking: Many modern microwave ovens come with features like turntables or convection modes, which help ensure that pizza is heated evenly. This is important for achieving a consistent temperature throughout the pizza, avoiding cold spots or overcooked areas.
- Space-Saving Design: Microwaves are typically more compact than traditional ovens, making them a great option for small kitchens or limited counter space. This allows pizza lovers to enjoy homemade or store-bought pizza without needing a full-size oven.
- Minimal Cleanup: Using a microwave to heat pizza usually requires fewer dishes compared to baking in an oven, as you can often use a microwave-safe plate. This can save time on cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal without a lengthy washing-up process.
- Defrosting Capability: If you have frozen pizza, microwave ovens often have defrosting settings that can quickly bring the pizza to a temperature suitable for cooking. This feature can save time when you want to enjoy pizza on short notice.
- Reheating Versatility: Microwaves are not just for cooking; they excel at reheating pizza while preserving its moisture. This prevents the crust from becoming too dry, maintaining the pizza’s texture and flavor better than some other reheating methods.
How Can You Achieve Even Heating When Microwaving Pizza?
To achieve even heating when microwaving pizza, consider the following strategies:
- Use a Microwave Crisper Pan: A microwave crisper pan is specially designed to distribute heat evenly while cooking, which helps to achieve a crispier crust.
- Rotate the Pizza: Manually rotating the pizza halfway through the cooking time allows for more uniform heating, as microwave ovens often have hot and cold spots.
- Cover with a Microwave-Safe Lid: Covering the pizza with a microwave-safe lid traps steam and helps cook the toppings evenly while preventing the crust from becoming too chewy.
- Adjust Power Settings: Using a lower power setting can help cook the pizza more evenly, allowing heat to penetrate the toppings and crust without overheating the surface.
- Preheat the Microwave: Some microwaves allow for preheating, which can help achieve better results by ensuring that the cooking environment is already warm when the pizza is placed inside.
The microwave crisper pan works by utilizing special materials that absorb microwave energy and convert it into direct heat, which helps create a crispy texture similar to an oven-baked pizza.
By rotating the pizza, you ensure that all areas of the pizza receive equal exposure to the microwave’s energy, reducing the likelihood of having cold spots or unevenly heated sections.
Covering the pizza helps maintain moisture and prevents the crust from becoming overly dry, while also allowing the cheese and toppings to heat thoroughly without burning.
Lowering the power settings can extend cooking time, but it allows the heat to distribute more evenly throughout the pizza, preventing the crust from cooking too quickly compared to the toppings.
Preheating the microwave can create a more consistent temperature environment, which can help achieve quicker and more even cooking results right from the start.
What Are the Alternatives to Using a Microwave for Cooking Pizza?
There are several alternatives to using a microwave for cooking pizza:
- Conventional Oven: A conventional oven provides even heat distribution, which is ideal for achieving a crispy crust and thoroughly melted cheese. Preheating the oven to the appropriate temperature, usually around 425°F to 475°F, allows for optimal cooking results similar to a traditional pizzeria.
- Toaster Oven: A toaster oven is a compact option that can cook pizza effectively while saving energy. It provides a similar cooking environment to a conventional oven but is perfect for smaller pizzas or single servings, ensuring a crispy crust and even heating.
- Pizza Stone: Using a pizza stone in either a conventional oven or grill helps to absorb moisture and distribute heat evenly, resulting in a perfectly baked crust. Preheating the stone is essential, as it mimics the effect of a pizza oven, giving a professional quality to homemade pizzas.
- Air Fryer: An air fryer circulates hot air around the pizza, cooking it quickly while achieving a crispy exterior. This method is ideal for smaller pizzas or pizza slices and often results in a shorter cooking time than traditional ovens.
- Stovetop Skillet: Cooking pizza in a skillet on the stovetop can create a crispy bottom crust while the lid traps heat and melts the cheese. This method is particularly useful for personal-sized pizzas and offers a quick alternative without needing an oven.