Review on 🍲 Toshiba EC042A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven with Convection: Smart Sensor, LCD Display, 1.5 CU.FT, Black Stainless Steel by Mike Pearson

Our 1980's microwave was no longer working properly so we decided to buy a new one. We liked the idea of having a convection oven as part of the microwave. After reading the questions and answers here as well as many reviews here, we decided on this model. The microwave worked great. However, the convection didn't seem to brown the roast or biscuits the way we expected. We found that the top heating element wasn't working, so we experimented with different settings and even held a paper plate near the element as the oven heated to 425 degrees. Nothing happened - not even a burn mark. We called Revain and they sent a replacement. First we checked the top element. Did not work. Then they called the manufacturer - not Toshiba but the real one, Midea from China. They are the world's leading manufacturer of small appliances and their products are manufactured by many well-known companies. After numerous calls, experiments by their representatives, and discussions with designers in China, we were told that the top element shouldn't work. THE? Yes, they said that only models priced around $1,000 could have a working top heating element. We've returned both ovens (thanks Revain) and are looking at the Kitchen Aid model, which says the top heating element works despite costing a few hundred bucks more. . Some here said their element worked, but the manufacturer said it was only hot because the oven's internal temperature was heating it up. They claim it doesn't work. The microwave worked great and the oven heated convection but don't expect the top element to work.