The Toshiba ML-EC42P(SS) can cover most of what a standard microwave and a countertop air fryer or convection oven handle, based on its documented functions. Whether it replaces both depends on three things: whether its measured chamber is big enough for your cookware, whether its footprint fits your counter, and whether you can live with a touch panel that takes more steps for some settings.
This review draws on the Toshiba instruction manual for this model (dated 2021) and on RTINGS’ published review and test results. It is not based on hands-on ownership or testing by this site.
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What the manual documents
The manufacturer’s specifications below come from the 2021 instruction manual. They are rated or listed figures, not independent measurements.
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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches| Specification | Manual figure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Power supply | 120 V, 60 Hz | Standard North American household supply |
| Microwave output | 1,000 W (rated) | Rated output as listed in the manual |
| Microwave input | 1,500 W | Power drawn in microwave mode |
| Convection input | 1,750 W | Power drawn in convection mode |
| Listed capacity | 1.5 cu. ft. | Advertised figure; see the capacity section below |
| Exterior dimensions | 21.77 × 21.5 × 12.99 in | Check all three figures against your space |
| Approximate net weight | 45.5 lb | Net weight, not shipping weight |
The “(SS)” in the model name denotes a stainless-steel finish. RTINGS’ page also shows a black stainless-steel version, so confirm the finish on the unit you are buying.
#1 Best Overall
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, please open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- 8-in-1 Multifunctional Microwave One microwave with multi-functions of microwave, air fry, bake(convection), broil (grill), combi., low temp., odor removal, defrost can fulfill more usages.
- Healthy Air Fryer Microwave Combo: Enjoy your wholesome fried food with original taste but less fat with healthy air fry.
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimension (WxDxH): 20.6*16.4*11.8 inches, 12.4-inch position memory turntable
- Compact Size but Large Capacity & Powerful: Small Footprint as Kitchen Essential, 12.4inch removable turntable can fit a whole roasted chicken, 12 inch pizza and 8*4 inch casserole, offers the perfect balance of size and convenience.
Cooking modes
The manual lists the following modes. The manual does not provide recipe times or temperatures for each mode in the material reviewed for this article, so treat each mode as a function to test in your own kitchen.
- Microwave cooking: standard microwave heating at the rated 1,000 W output.
- Convection cooking: oven-style heating using the 1,750 W convection input.
- Combination cooking: microwave and convection running together. This is the mode that most directly replaces a microwave-plus-oven workflow.
- Air fry: a dedicated mode. RTINGS describes the unit as a microwave, oven, and air fryer, but its review does not publish crisping results for specific foods, so air-fry performance should be judged against the dishes you actually cook.
- Sensor cook and reheat: automatic programs. RTINGS lists the steam sensor among the model’s strengths.
- Defrost and warm hold: included as listed in the manual.
Capacity: advertised versus measured
The manual lists 1.5 cu. ft. of capacity. RTINGS measured the chamber at 1.17 cu. ft., which is about 22 percent smaller than the listed figure. The two numbers answer different questions. The manual figure is the manufacturer’s advertised capacity. The RTINGS figure is a measured chamber volume from a single test, and it is the better guide when you are checking whether a casserole dish or large roasting pan will fit.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 Microwave Oven: Use this essential countertop appliance for cooking in five functions: microwave, air fryer, combi (grill/convection), bake, and roast for all of your culinary needs.
- 10 Cooking Levels: Featuring a 900-watt output, this compact microwave has 7 auto menus, including settings for Beverage, Fresh/Frozen Vegetables, Oatmeal, Potato, Popcorn, and Frozen Pizza.
- Air Fry Presets: This small-but-mighty microwave has 11 preset air fry menus, including for cooking frozen French fries, steak fries, squid rings, chicken nuggets/wings/legs, fish sticks/fillets, cheese sticks, vegetables, and spring rolls with an easy-to-use operation.
- Speedy Cooking: Directly press the start button to cook food at 100% power for 30 seconds and press again for an additional 30 seconds.
- Child-Lock Setting: Press the stop button for 3 seconds to lock the control panel to keep little hands from clicking buttons on the appliance.
| Measure | Figure | Source | How to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Listed capacity | 1.5 cu. ft. | Toshiba manual (2021) | Manufacturer’s advertised figure |
| Measured chamber volume | 1.17 cu. ft. | RTINGS test page, accessed October 7, 2026 | Independent measurement; use it for fit decisions |
| Rated microwave output | 1,000 W | Toshiba manual; RTINGS also lists 1,000 W as the advertised output | Rated figure, not a measured cooking result |
| Turntable diameter | Not stated | Not stated in the manual material reviewed | Measure the turntable and your dishes before buying |
Independent findings
What reviewers praised
- Fast heating: RTINGS found the unit heats faster than the comparison models it tested against.
- Steam sensor: RTINGS lists the steam sensor as a pro for sensor cooking and reheating.
- Mute controls: RTINGS lists mute controls as a pro.
What reviewers criticized
- Bulky design: RTINGS lists the body size as a con. This is the main reason to check the footprint section below before ordering.
- Control interaction: RTINGS notes that some tasks require more interaction than physical controls would, covered in the controls section below.
Controls and daily use
The control panel is a membrane touch panel. RTINGS describes its feedback as limited, meaning there is little tactile confirmation when a press registers. RTINGS also notes that changing the microwave to 50 percent power takes multiple button presses, a common task for reheating delicate foods. If you regularly switch between power levels, this is the trade-off most likely to frustrate you.
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If you prefer physical buttons and dials, the RTINGS comparisons below are more useful than the specification sheet alone.
Rank #3
- 4-in-1 Multifunctional Countertop Microwave One microwave with multi-functions of microwave, air fry, convection, combination cooking (microwave plus convection) can fulfill more usages.
- Healthy Air Fryer Combo Enjoy your wholesome fried food with original taste but less fat with healthy air fry
- One Kitchen Appliance, Better Texture Combines microwave and convection cooking in one appliance; with auto bake, defrosting and auto roast menus; Also with pre-programmed sensor menu for optimum result of popular foods like frozen pizza, vegetables and more.
- Large Capacity for a Family Size 13.6inch removable turntable can fit a whole roasted chicken, 12-inch pizza
- Stylish Appearance: Black Stainless steel finish with easy to clean stainless steel interior.
Footprint and fit
The manual lists exterior dimensions of 21.77 × 21.5 × 12.99 inches and an approximate net weight of 45.5 lb. Before buying, work through this checklist:
- Measure the depth and height of the space, not just the width, against all three listed exterior dimensions.
- Check the clearance requirements in the installation instructions for vents and rear space. The article does not reproduce those clearances, so confirm them in the manual.
- Plan for the 45.5 lb net weight when lifting the unit onto or off a counter.
- If your typical dish is larger than the measured 1.17 cu. ft. chamber allows, the unit will not replace a full-size oven for that task.
How it compares with alternatives
RTINGS compares the Toshiba with three other countertop units. The table reflects the differences RTINGS states in its review. Where the source does not state a difference, the cell says so.
Rank #4
- Multi functionality: BAKE, ROAST, MICROWAVE, CONVECTION OVEN
- 5 ONE TOUCH COOK MENUS: POTATO, POPCORN, BEVERAGE, REHEAT, FROZEN DINNER
- Air fryer: Up to 70% less fat than traditional frying methods
- SPECIAL PROGRAM: DEFROST/TIME/WEIGHT; 1000W power
- 10 POWER LEVELS
| Model | RTINGS’ stated difference from the Toshiba |
|---|---|
| Panasonic NN-CD66NS | Has physical buttons and dials; smaller capacity than the Toshiba |
| Breville Combi Wave 3 in 1 | Easier to use; the Toshiba heats faster and has a larger chamber |
| GE JES1109RRSS | Not stated in the review material used for this article; check RTINGS’ comparison directly |
When comparing these models yourself, line up footprint, chamber size, control type, sensor features, cooking modes, and the dish sizes you use most.
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It is a good fit if you want one countertop unit for microwave cooking, convection and combination cooking, and air-fry tasks; you value fast heating and a steam sensor; and you can accept a touch panel with limited feedback.
Best Value
- Balanced capacity. Powerful performance: With a versatile 1.0 cu. ft. capacity and 1,050 Watts of cooking power, this microwave delivers fast, even results for family favorites and everyday meals. Measures: 13.98" W x 9.49" H x 13.23" D
- Air Fry: The built-in microwave air fryer is a healthier way to deliver crispy, golden results without a separate appliance—a stainless steel crisper pan is included to help you get the most from every air fry session
- Convection Cooking: This convection microwave oven countertop unit uses a wire rack to let hot air circulate evenly around food, producing consistent browning and thorough cooking for everyday meals and smaller baked goods
- Broil: When you have a microwave with a broiler right inside, you can achieve the same effect you do with grill racks, radiating heat to sear or caramelize any food to perfection
- Trusted GE Performance: From quick breakfasts to late-night snacks, this GE countertop microwave delivers the reliable performance, user-friendly controls, and everyday convenience that have made GE a trusted name in kitchens for generations
Think twice if you need a chamber larger than the measured 1.17 cu. ft., you want physical dials for frequent power-level changes, or your counter cannot accommodate the listed dimensions and weight.
Safety instructions
The manual states: “Do not attempt to operate this oven with the door open since open door operation can result in harmful exposure to microwave energy.” Other warnings in the manual say:
- Do not defeat or tamper with the safety interlocks.
- Do not operate the oven if it is damaged.
- Adjustments and repairs should be performed only by properly qualified service personnel.
Attribute these instructions to the Toshiba ML-EC42P(SS) instruction manual.
Warranty and support
The manual describes a one-year limited warranty from the date of purchase for the original retail purchaser, subject to exclusions and terms in the document. Toshiba TAI states that each licensee is responsible for support and warranty for its specific Toshiba-branded appliance. US small-appliance customers are directed to Toshiba Lifestyle. Use the contact details in your product documentation rather than assuming Toshiba Corporation is the service provider. Because the manual dates from 2021, confirm that the warranty terms apply to the unit you purchased.
What this review does not establish
- Current retail price, stock, seller, and whether this exact listing is still sold.
- Replacement accessory availability or compatibility.
- Cooking results for specific recipes, including air-fry crispness, beyond what RTINGS reports.
Confirm pricing, availability, and warranty terms directly with the seller and the manufacturer before purchase.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
