Whirlpool WMCS5522RS Reviews & Ratings by Customers and Consumer Reports

Designed for households that want more than basic reheating from a compact countertop unit, the Whirlpool WMCS5522RS is a 1.0 cu. ft. all-in-one microwave that adds convection-style cooking modes—most notably air fry, grill, roast, and bake—without demanding the footprint of a separate small appliance. It’s best suited to apartment kitchens, busy family snack stations, and secondary prep areas where versatility matters as much as speed. In day-to-day use, the standout advantage is functional range. Traditional microwave tasks are handled with 900 watts of cooking power and 10 power levels, which is a practical sweet spot for consistent reheating and defrosting without overcooking delicate foods. Where this model differentiates itself is in its convection-enabled modes: air fry and roast can deliver noticeably better texture than a standard microwave, helping foods like frozen appetizers or leftover pizza regain crispness rather than turning soft. For many users, that translates to fewer pans, fewer preheats, and less countertop clutter. Usability is thoughtfully executed. The electronic touch controls are straightforward, and features like Add 30 Seconds and Keep Warm support real kitchen habits—especially when timing multiple dishes. Cleanup is also easier than average for the category thanks to a removable, dishwasher-safe turntable plate and a Steam Clean option that helps loosen everyday splatters. There are limitations to consider. At 1.0 cu. ft., capacity is appropriate for most plates and bowls, but it may not suit buyers who routinely heat oversized cookware or want to air-fry larger batches. Like many modern units, it also uses a two-step door unlock process required by UL standards, which adds a small extra step that some users may find less convenient. Finally, as with most countertop convection/air-fry hybrids, best results depend on not overcrowding the basket and allowing airflow—more “small-batch crisping” than full-size air-fryer throughput. Overall, the Whirlpool WMCS5522RS is a strong choice for shoppers in the U.S. or Canada who want a compact microwave that meaningfully expands cooking capability beyond reheating. It’s ideal for small kitchens and multi-function convenience, while heavy batch-cookers or those needing larger interior volume may want to consider a bigger-capacity platform.