Convection vs Conventional Ovens: Which is Better for Roasting and Baking?

Want to know the secret to mastering recipes like the pros? The answer may already be in your kitchen, and you might not even know it. We’re talking about convection baking, of course, and while more home cooks are catching on to the benefits of convection baking, not all cooks know how it compares to conventional baking.

That's why we've created this convection oven vs conventional oven guide for you to see the differences. In this article, we break down the key differences between these two oven types and explain how the benefits of convection oven technology can elevate everyday meals.

Understanding Convection Baking

Let’s start with the basics: How does a convection oven work? It’s pretty simple, really. Convection baking uses a fan to circulate hot air evenly around food to create faster and more consistent cooking compared to traditional oven methods.

Unlike conventional ovens, which rely on radiant heat, convection ovens produce faster baking outcome. As a result, users are required to lower recipe temperatures by 25°F and reduce cooking time by about 25%.

But not all convection baking ovens provide the same level of results. Here’s a quick breakdown of the types of convection wall ovens available on the market:

🟢Convection Ovens: Standard fan circulation for even cooking.

🟢Dual Convection Ovens: Two fans deliver quicker, more uniform heat distribution.

🟢True European Convection Ovens: Three heating elements and up to three oven fans create professional-level baking environments for restaurant-quality meals and pastries.

Is Convection Baking Better than Regular Baking | Advantages

Wondering when is convection baking better? Well, if you're making quicker meals or are preparing recipes that require crisping, like pizza or chops, then convection cooking is the type of technology you want in an oven.

But if you want to slow-cook meals and you're looking to retain moisture, then a conventional oven will do the trick. There are ovens that can give you both cooking options, so knowing when to bake or convection bake can make all the difference for a meal. Here are some helpful tips:

One of the main advantages is even browning as it makes cookies, pastries, and roasted vegetables cook uniformly without needing to rotate or flip trays.

It also speeds up cooking and reduces overall bake and roast times while maintaining consistent results. That means foods retain moisture better, and multiple trays can be baked simultaneously without compromising quality.

When comparing a convection oven vs conventional oven, convection consistently delivers crisp edges and tender interiors. At-home culinarians who want the best oven features will appreciate the way convection technology improves efficiency, precision, and convenience in the kitchen.

When to Use Regular Baking Settings

When you do a convection oven vs conventional oven comparison, results show that using the regular oven setting excels at roasting meats and baking pastries because it provides crisp exteriors and evenly cooked interiors.

So, when is convection baking better?

While convection is superior for most baked goods, there are times when regular baking settings are preferable. Custards, like flan, rice pudding, or some cheesecakes, benefit from gentle, steady heat that prevents cracking or curdling.

Long roasts are another scenario where conventional settings shine. For one, they don’t require complex temperature or time adjustments. But more importantly, a standard oven is better at low and slow cooking methods, meaning they’re the best oven for roasting.

Ultimately, Stick to Conventional Baking If…

✅You’re roasting with aluminum foil: Using foil with during a convection setting can block airflow, cause uneven cooking, and even damage your oven. Stick to conventional baking when roasting with aluminum foil for safer, more consistent, and reliable results.

✅You’re braising or following long-roasting recipes: Convection’s constant airflow can dry out meats and disrupt moisture levels if you cook them for too long. Conventional baking is better for braising or long-roasting because it of its slower cooking rate, which creates tender textures and allows flavors develop slowly without losing valuable juices.

✅You’re preparing a dessert with high moisture: Is convection baking better for baking? In some cases, yes. However, high-moisture desserts like custards and cheesecakes need gentle, stable heat. Convection airflow can cause cracking or uneven texture, so conventional baking is better for these types of desserts.

Top Convection Ovens

If you’re ready to upgrade your cooking repertoire, starting with the best convection oven for baking is a fantastic jumping point. To help you find the perfect fit for your cooking needs, we've provided convection oven reviews on some of our most popular models. And if you prefer another type of convection oven then take a look at our Jenn-Air reviews.

KitchenAid® 30" Stainless Steel Double Electric Wall Oven

Shop This KitchenAid Oven

Cooking multiple dishes at once is easier with this KitchenAid double wall oven, thanks to two 5 cubic-foot compartments. The Even-Heat True Convection system distributes air evenly to give you consistent roasts, flaky pastries, and flavorful vegetables. Or use the Air Fry mode with a dishwasher-safe basket for crispy pub or gametime favorites with less oil and minimal cleanup.

Owners also love features like the integrated meat thermometer and EasyConvect conversion system help simplify precise cooking. If you’re searching for the best convection oven that blends style, capacity, and smart functionality, this stainless steel model delivers the high performance you want.

GE Profile™ 30" Smart Built In Convection Stainless Steel Double Wall Oven

Shop This GE Profile Oven

The swing doors on this GE Profile oven may seem like a small luxury, but the design makes it easier to place and remove heavy dishes without awkward reaching. GE Profile equips this double oven with True European Convection and Direct Air so that heat circulates evenly for consistent results. Built-in WiFi and a full-color touchscreen bring modern convenience right into your kitchen. It’s a modern choice loaded with smart upgrades made for today’s homeowners to tackle meals from holidays to weeknight courses.

LG 30" PrintProof® Stainless Steel Oven/Microwave Combo Electric Wall Ovens

Shop This LG Oven

Dinner prep is more efficient with this LG TurboCook speed oven with full oven-quality performance for meals up to four times faster without preheating. In the main compartment, True Convection ensures even heat circulation for consistent results across every rack. Unlock new cooking techniques with add-ons such as air fry and steam sous vide, all while admiring your work through the InstaView door.

Café™ Professional Series 30" Stainless Steel Electric Single Wall Oven

Shop This Cafe Oven

With over 125 5-star ratings, this Café model is the best oven for baking on a smaller scale. Its design offers professional-level cooking into the home with features like True European Convection and Direct Air for precise heat circulation for even results. The built-in WiFi and in-oven camera let you monitor meals without opening the door, so you can save time and keep the heat steady. It even comes with a food dehydrator function for added versatility, while the sleek touchscreen display makes controls effortless.

If you want a convection oven for versatile cooking scenarios, this single wall oven has the style, smart technology, and reliable performance that fits seamlessly into your modern cooking routine.

Wolf® E Series 30" Stainless Steel Professional Built in Single Electric Wall Oven

Shop This Wolf Oven

Wolf’s dual convection system eliminates hot and cold spots for dependable and precise multi-rack. Ten cooking modes—including Gourmet Mode with nearly 50 presets—simplify everything from soufflés to roasts at the touch of a button. A full-color touchscreen and temperature probe add accuracy and ease, while Wi-Fi control keeps cooking flexible. We name this the best oven with convection on our list for Wolf’s quality German engineering that not only produces top results but is designed to last at least 20 years.

GE Profile™ 30" Stainless Steel Single Electric Wall Oven

Shop This GE Profile Electric Oven

A kitchen upgrade is smarter when an oven practically thinks for you, and GE Profile delivers just that. Precision cooking modes adjust time and temperature automatically, while scan-to-cook tech simplifies packaged meals. True European Convection with Direct Air ensures consistent results, provide three heating sources for optimum baking and roasting settngs. Add air frying, a no-preheat option, and a smooth-glide rack, and it’s clear this oven is a high-performance appliance that's easy for homeowners to operate.

Café™ Professional Series 30" Stainless Steel Single Electric Wall Oven

Shop This Cafe Oven

Café brings professional-grade style and functionality to the home with its French-door wall oven for easier access and precise control over every dish. True European Convection with Direct Air ensures even heat distribution, which makes your choice clear on convection technology for consistent baking and roasting. Smart precision cooking modes, air fry capability, and a vibrant full-color display simplify complex recipes while adding a sleek touch to the kitchen. With no-preheat convenience and customizable handles, this stainless steel oven has proficient performance, efficiency, and professional design in one standout package.

Knowing how to use an oven is an essential skill for any home cook, so don’t underestimate the power of convection baking. If you’re still curious why this feature is beloved by home cooks and professionals, we’re happy to explain even more! Stop on by one of our Pittsburgh appliance showrooms to explore our top picks and to get inside details from the experts in the industry.

Learn More: JennAir Convection Oven Reviews [+ Top Picks]

Why Trust Don’s Appliances?

Founded in 1971, Don’s Appliances is a family-owned, independent appliance retailer based out of Pittsburgh, PA. Don’s has since expanded to 10 locations selling, delivering, installing, and servicing all major appliance brands. Large enough to offer competitive pricing yet small enough to continue offering the “white glove” service we pride ourselves on, our focus is always on the customer experience — from the first step into a showroom to the purchase transaction to well after your new appliance has been installed.

When our customers are remodeling or building a new house, Don’s has all the expertise, product knowledge, inventory, brands, displays, and services to meet and exceed your needs. And in the event an appliance breaks, we are there, right on time and with the right product, delivery, installation, and service.

Shop Ovens at Don’s

Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today, and shop cooking appliances online at Don’s Appliance. Our friendly experts are always happy to help you understand when to use a convection oven vs conventional oven — whether you call us at 866-544-1711, email us, or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by any of our Don’s Appliances Pittsburgh, PA warehouse locations. Visit us today!

Learn More: European vs. American Convection: What's the Difference?

• Shop Appliance Deals
• Shop What’s In-Stock Near You
• Shop Clearance & Discount Appliances
• Learn About Our Services
• Learn About Financing Options