Convection Vs. Conventional Ovens: What’s the Difference?

Not all ovens cook the same. Whether you're baking cookies or roasting a turkey, knowing whether you have a convection or conventional oven can dramatically change your results.

In this blog, we’ll discuss convection and conventional ovens, their functions, pros and cons, when to use each, and how Van Vreede’s models make the decision easier.

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What Is a Convection Oven?

A convection oven uses a fan and exhaust system to circulate hot air evenly throughout the oven cavity. This reduces hot spots and speeds up cooking time.

That’s why recipes made in convection ovens often finish faster and more evenly than conventional ovens.

Common uses:

• Roasting meats and veggies

• Baking multiple trays at once

• Air frying (in models with that setting)

💡 Pro Tip: Wondering if your oven is convection or conventional? If there’s a fan at the back of your oven wall, it’s convection.

 

What Is a Conventional Oven?

A conventional oven (also called a traditional or regular oven) cooks using radiant heat. Heat comes from either the bottom, top, or both, but it doesn’t circulate. This can lead to uneven cooking, especially when using multiple racks.

Still, some baking purists prefer conventional ovens for delicate treats like soufflés or cakes, where a steady rise matters.

Convection vs. Conventional Oven: Pros and Cons

Convection Oven Pros:

• Even heat distribution

• Faster cooking times

• Energy-efficient

• Often includes air fry features

Convection Oven Cons:

• Can overcook food if you don't adjust time/temp

• Some baked goods may not rise properly

• More expensive upfront

Conventional Oven Pros:

• Ideal for traditional baking

• Simpler operation

• Lower purchase price

Conventional Oven Cons:

• Longer cooking times

• Uneven heat in some areas

• Less energy-efficient

 

 

Convection Oven vs Air Fryer

If you're wondering whether you still need an air fryer if you have a convection oven, the answer is probably not. Air fryers are essentially compact convection ovens with a high-speed fan and a smaller chamber, which makes them great for crisping food fast in small batches.

But here’s where it gets better: many ranges and ovens now come with built-in air fry settings. These ovens use the same technology as an air fryer but offer way more space. That means you can cook an entire tray of wings or fries at once, without needing a separate countertop appliance.

✅ Look for ovens labeled "True Convection with Air Fry" or "No Preheat Air Fry" when shopping at Van Vreede’s for the best of both worlds.

 

Temperature and Time Adjustments

One common question is: What’s the equivalent of 350°F in a convection oven?

Typically, you reduce the temperature by 25 degrees and shorten the cook time by about 20%. Always check your food early to avoid overcooking.

 

 

Top Convection Ovens at Van Vreede’s

GE Profile 30" Smart Free-Standing Electric Convection Range

• No-Preheat Air Fry setting

• Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel

• Smart capabilities via app

• Model: PB900YVFS

LG 6.3 cu ft. Smart Wi-Fi Enabled True Convection Electric Range

• InstaView® window with knock-to-light

• Air Fry and True Convection settings

• Large 6.3 cu ft. capacity

• Model: LREL6325F

Top Conventional Ovens at Van Vreede’s

Thermador Masterpiece® 30" Single Wall Oven

• Large 4.6 cu. ft. capacity

• True convection and conventional bake modes

• Fast preheat and 2-hour self-clean

• Smooth-glide racks and digital display

• Model: ME301YP

Frigidaire 30" Gas Range with Quick Boil

• 18,000 BTU Quick Boil burner

• 5.0 cu. ft. oven capacity

• Continuous grates and large window

• Built-in electronic kitchen timer

• Model: FCRG3062AS

 

 

Should You Use a Convection or Conventional Oven?

Still not sure? Here’s a quick guide:

 

 

💡 Pro Tip: Some ovens let you toggle between convection and conventional modes, too.

 

 

Shop Ovens at Van Vreede’s

Whether you're team convection, conventional, or somewhere in between, Van Vreede’s has the perfect oven for your cooking style.

Visit Van Vreede’s to shop for cooking appliances from top brands. Contact us or visit our appliance store locations in Appleton, Green Bay, and Oshkosh to shop for the best ovens for sale that are designed to fit your cooking style.

Related readings from our blog:

• Induction vs Electric Appliances: What's Better?

• How to Air Fry in a Samsung Oven

• Cooktop vs. Range: What’s the Difference?

 

FAQs: Common Questions About Ovens

1. Do you need to adjust baking time for a convection oven?

Yes. Lower the temp by 25°F and reduce cook time by about 20%.

2. Is an air fryer the same as a convection oven?

Not quite. Air fryers are small convection ovens with faster fans. A convection oven with air fry mode gives similar results with more capacity.

3. What’s the downside of a convection oven?

They can overcook food if you don’t adjust the time or temperature, and some models cost more than conventional ovens.

4. Do chefs prefer convection ovens?

Oftentimes, yes, especially for roasting and multi-rack cooking. But for delicate baked goods, even pros sometimes stick with conventional.

5. Should I use convection bake for frozen pizza?

Definitely, just lower the temp by about 25°F for a crispier, quicker result.