GE GCST10A1WSS Countertop Microwave Oven review with air fry and convection modes

Description

Stylish and Compact Design for Any Space

I’ve been using the GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven, and I have to say, its sleek stainless steel finish immediately caught my eye. It doesn’t just sit on the countertop; it actually enhances the kitchen aesthetic. At 16.6 x 20.6 x 11.88 inches and weighing only 35 pounds, it fits snugly in smaller spaces like dorm rooms or office kitchens without feeling bulky. The compact size doesn’t compromise on functionality either, which is a major win for anyone working with limited counter space. The build feels sturdy, and the glass turntable, which rotates food evenly, is surprisingly easy to clean. While it’s a good fit for most kitchens, I noticed it might not hold larger dishes due to its 1.0 cu. ft. capacity, so keep that in mind if you frequently cook for larger groups.

Impressive Multi-Functionality

This microwave is not just a microwave—it’s a 4-in-1 appliance. I mean, how often do you find something that combines a microwave, air fryer, convection oven, and broiler in one sleek design? The air fry mode is particularly impressive. I tested it with frozen fries, and they came out crispy and golden without needing oil, which feels like a small miracle. The convection mode uses a dedicated rack to circulate heat evenly, giving baked goods that perfect golden crust. And the broiler mode? I caramelized some sugar on a crème brûlée, and the results were as good as any high-end oven. However, I did notice the preset controls like “Fries” and “Nuggets” are a bit niche—great for quick snacks but less versatile if you cook more complex meals.

Key Benefits

• 4-in-1 functionality: Microwave, air fryer, convection oven, and broiler in one.
• Compact yet powerful: 1,050 watts and 1.0 cu. ft. capacity.
• Stylish stainless steel design that enhances kitchen aesthetics.
• Glass turntable ensures even cooking and is easy to clean.

Areas for Improvement

• The 1.0 cu. ft. capacity might feel limiting for larger families or those who cook big meals.
• Preset controls are convenient but may lack customization for advanced cooks.
• The air fry mode works well, but it takes a bit longer than dedicated air fryers for heavily breaded items.

Ease of Use and Safety Features

What stood out to me right away was the two-step child-lock feature. As someone with curious little ones running around, this mandatory safety feature is a game-changer. It prevents any accidental button presses, and you can deactivate it if it’s not needed. The preset controls make operation intuitive—press a button for fries, and you’re good to go. However, navigating the settings for more advanced functions like convection baking took me a couple of tries to get used to. Still, the learning curve isn’t steep, and the digital display is bright and clear.

Peer Products

Looking at similar products, I’ve tried the Panasonic NN-CD87KS, which also combines microwave and convection features. While it offers a slightly larger cooking capacity, I found its air fry mode wasn’t as effective as the one on this GE model. The Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 is another competitor. It’s pricier and has a more premium feel, but its lack of a specific broiler mode makes it less versatile. The GE GCST10A1WSS, on the other hand, strikes a balance between price, functionality, and performance, especially if you’re looking for a compact solution.

Cost-Effectiveness

Given everything this multifunctional microwave offers, I’d say it’s a solid investment for its feature set. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the versatility of combining four appliances into one makes it worth the price. If you’re someone who values space-saving solutions without compromising on performance, this product definitely delivers. It’s rare to find a microwave that can air fry, broil, and bake so effectively, and that alone justifies the cost.

Performance Under Pressure

Testing the broiler mode, I was pleasantly surprised by how evenly it radiated heat. My grilled cheese had that perfect balance of crispy edges and gooey center. The 1,050-watt power output ensures food heats quickly, and the automatic defrost function came in handy when I forgot to take out frozen meat ahead of time. I will say, the convection mode works best for smaller portions—larger dishes might require multiple cycles to cook thoroughly. However, for its compact size, the performance is truly impressive.

Final Thoughts on Who Should Buy This

This microwave is ideal for individuals or small families who want a versatile, space-saving appliance. It’s perfect for students, professionals with tight kitchen spaces, or anyone looking to upgrade their countertop setup. While it may not replace a full-sized oven for larger households, its air fry and convection capabilities make it a fantastic secondary appliance. With its sleek design, safety features, and multi-functionality, it checks a lot of boxes for modern kitchens.

Additional information