12 Best Air Fryer Microwave Combos (2023 Guide)
We test presets like the popcorn setting to see how well each microwave pops a bag of popcorn. We weigh the unpopped kernels that remain and assess any burning that occurred (as shown here). We also test the defrost preset on microwaves by defrosting a pound of frozen ground beef (in two different shapes).
5 Best Microwave Air Fryer Combos, According to Testing
Pop popcorn, air fry chicken wings and even bake a cake with one of these versatile countertop appliances.
A microwave air fryer combo is a small kitchen appliance which combines the speedy power of a microwave with an air fryer setting for crispy results. Whether you want a quick snack of microwave popcorn or to cook up your favorite weeknight air fryer recipe, a microwave air fryer combo will become a versatile and convenient tool for your household. We especially love that you can steam or par-cook a vegetable in the microwave and then switch to the air frying setting to add a crisp, golden brown exterior — something you wouldn’t be able to get with a traditional microwave.
In the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, we’ve tested hundreds of air fryers, microwaves, toaster ovens and combination appliances like air fryer toaster ovens and microwave air fryer combos to help determine the best microwave air fryer combos on the market.
Our top picks:
Best Overall microwave air fryer
Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
Best Value microwave air fryer
GE Appliances 3-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Most Versatile microwave air fryer
Toshiba 7-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Best Microwave air fryer with combination cooking
Toshiba 4-in-1 Microwave
Best Microwave air fryer convection oven
Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave
When we test microwave air fryer combos we assess everything from ease of opening the door to popping popcorn, air frying chicken wings, toasting and melting cheese on bread, baking a cake and so much more. When we evaluate them, we appreciate that they combine a few appliances in one and generally take up the same amount of space as a traditional microwave.
You can read more about how we test microwaves, air fryers and combination appliances in our Lab at the end of this guide — plus we offer expert advice on what to look for when shopping for a microwave air fryer combo. Interested in other combo appliances? Check out our guides to best breakfast stations, blender-food processor combos and coffee and espresso makers.
Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
Pros
- Inverter technology
- 20 different presets
Cons
The HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven is not just a regular microwave; it’s also a broiler, convection oven and air fryer — all in one sleek-looking machine that performed very well in Lab testing — making it our best overall pick for its great performance on all settings, but especially air fry. This four-in-one appliance can perform simple tasks like popping a bag of popcorn, as well as more complicated jobs like baking a cake in the convection oven or air frying chicken wings. We tried both and were especially impressed with how evenly the convection oven baked a nine-inch yellow cake and how crispy chicken wings were with the air fry function.
This model features Panasonic inverter technology which uses a continuous stream of power to thoroughly heat foods. While this microwave offers 20 presets, we recommend reviewing the instruction manual before operating to understand how they all work and which included accessories should be used.
Dimensions | 15 x 15.4 x 9 inches |
---|---|
Wattage | 1,000 watts |
Size | 1.2 cubic feet |
Settings | Microwave, broil, air fry, convection |
Power levels | 1000W-100W |
GE Appliances 3-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
GE Appliances 3-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Pros
- Easy to align turntable
- All presets are listed on the front of the microwave
Cons
GE 3-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven was one of the easiest microwaves to operate in our recent testing and costs less than other microwaves of similar performace, making it a great value for everything that it offers. While most microwaves require that you place the turntable in exact alignment on the rotating ring underneath or it won’t spin, no matter how you place this turntable on the rotating ring, it will spin. And instead of searching for preset codes, all presets are listed on the front of the microwave for superior ease of use.
This model cooked up perfectly tender baked potatoes and excelled at heat distribution tests, melting cheese evenly and defrosting meat better than the majority of its competitors. Air fried chicken wings also came out very moist and juicy. Something to note is that you have to press hard to open up the microwave while pushing the large external button and the user’s manual is very brief.
Dimensions | 16.6 x 20.6 x 11.8 inches |
---|---|
Wattage | 1,050 watts |
Size | 1.0 cubic feet |
Settings | Microwave, convection, air fry, broil, combi cook |
Power levels | PL-10-PL-1 |
Toshiba 7-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Toshiba 7-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Pros
- Best heat distribution out of all microwaves tested
- Reheated a large casserole better than any other model tested
Cons
This model from Toshiba is our best overall countertop microwave and offers seven different ways to cook — microwave, air fry, convection, broil, defrost, sensor cook and “combi” cook — making it a truly versatile microwave air fryer combo. If you use the “sensor cook” preset, it will utilize the microwave’s built-in humidity sensor to adjust power and cooking time accordingly, while the “combi” cook combines microwave, convection and broil technology in one setting.
In our recent testing, this microwave had the most even heat distribution out of all microwaves tested. It completely and evenly melted cheese, produced four perfectly cooked baked potatoes and reheated a large casserole of mac and cheese more evenly than 11 other models we tested. Take note that the microwave has presets like popcorn, but it is listed on inside of the microwave, instead of on the control panel.
Dimensions | 20.6 x 16.3 x 11.8 inches |
---|---|
Wattage | 1,000 watts |
Size | 1 cubic foot |
Settings | Microwave, air fry, broil, convection, combi, pro defrost, sensor cook |
Power levels | P100-P10 |
Toshiba 4-in-1 Microwave
Toshiba 4-in-1 Microwave
Pros
- Presets listed on the control panel
- Low price point
Cons
Toshiba microwaves have performed well in our testing and while we haven’t tested this particular model, we think this a great option at a good price point. If you aren’t looking for a microwave with seven different functions like the one above, we recommend this 4-in-1 model.
Even though it’s at a lower price point than the 7-in-1, it features more than just an air fryer setting, but also a convection and combi cook. Combi cook, which is short for “combination cooking,” combines a few forms of cooking at once to ensure your ingredient is fully and evenly cooked. For example, with combination cooking the microwave with help quickly cook the interior of a baked sweet potato, while at the same time convection will ensure the exterior is crisp. There are also presets listed on the control panel like popcorn and there is a “sensor cook” preset on this model as well for superior ease of use. Take note: this model is one of the largest on this list and does take up more space on the countertop.
Dimensions | 13 x 21.8 x 21.5 inches |
---|---|
Wattage | 1,000 watts |
Size | 1.5 cubic feet |
Settings | Microwave, air fry, convection, combi cook |
Power levels | P100-P10 |
Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave
Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave
Pros
- Great convection and air fry functions
- Attractive looking model
Cons
Not just a microwave, this model from Breville is also an air fryer and convection oven combined. Like its namesake, there is a fast combi setting which combines microwave, convection and air frying power to cook food fast and evenly. While there isn’t a popcorn button, there is a frozen food preset, ideal for cooking your favorite frozen meal or veggies. In our tests, the air fry setting yielded crispy, juicy and golden chicken wings and a very moist cake baked on the convection setting.
We can’t help but mention that this completely stainless steel model with an easy to grasp handle looks very stylish on your countertop. The backlit digital control panel makes it easy to navigate from one setting to another, once you get the hang of its multifunctional operation. But make sure to stay close by while it’s in operation because we found the model’s alerts to be quiet when you’re supposed to flip your ground beef that is defrosting or your chicken wings while air frying.
Dimensions | 20.2 x 20.4 x 12.4 inches |
---|---|
Wattage | 1,400 watts |
Size | 1.1 cubic feet |
Settings | Microwave, air fry, convection |
Power levels | P100-P10 |
How we test the best microwave air fryer combo appliances
Our team of appliance experts have tested hundreds of air fryers, microwaves, toaster ovens and combination appliances like air fryer toaster ovens and microwave air fryer combos in the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab.
Philip Friedman
To test microwave air fryers, we put them through all standardized microwave tests, but also test them with air fryer and toaster oven tests when they apply to the specific appliance.
We evaluate how evenly microwaves melt cheese (as shown here), “bake” four potatoes, reheat a large mac and cheese casserole and a dinner plate of meatloaf with sides.
We test presets like the popcorn setting to see how well each microwave pops a bag of popcorn. We weigh the unpopped kernels that remain and assess any burning that occurred (as shown here). We also test the defrost preset on microwaves by defrosting a pound of frozen ground beef (in two different shapes).
Good Housekeeping/Eva Bleyer
Because a microwave air fryer combo features additional settings to test, we also put those settings to the test by toasting bread, baking a cake and air frying chicken wings.
We also consider ease of use when it comes to the control panel, positioning the turntable, opening and closing the door and cleaning the microwave.
What to look for when shopping for the best microwave air fryer combo
✔️ Size: The internal size of a microwave is noted as cubic feet and it will determine just how much you can fit inside. Based on our research, the most common capacity for microwaves is around 1.2 cubic feet, but microwaves can be anywhere from 0.8 cubic feet to 2.2 cubic feet on average and microwave air fryers tend to be a bit larger compared to models with less settings.
✔️ Wattage: This tells you how powerful the microwave is. For more varied use, you’d want at least 1,000 watts of power. Most microwave air fryer combos have a higher wattage than their traditional counterparts and you shouldn’t have to worry too much that the power would be too low.
✔️ Settings: The majority of the microwave air fryers that we tested didn’t just feature an air fry setting, but also many other settings like broil, convection or even grill. If you think you would get use out of more settings then go for it, but if you just want a microwave that also air fries, they tend to be a little easier to use. The more settings on a microwave air fryer, the more troubleshooting it needs to find the right way to use them.
✔️ Features: There are a lot of great bells and whistles on the market these days. These are some that make microwave air fryer combo use so much easier:
- Smart sensors adjust the time and power level for you by automatically measuring the humidity in your food. They take the guesswork out of figuring out how much longer to add to the cooking time.
- Turntables rotate your food to make sure it heats evenly. Without one, you’d have to stop the cooking cycle midway just to turn your plate around. Removable ones are easier to clean. Many microwave air fryers also come with nonstick metal turntables for use on the air fry setting in addition to the traditional glass version. Some models even come with air fry baskets that can be attached to the turn table for extra crispy cooking.
- A plus-30-seconds button may seem trivial, but it makes a huge difference — it allows you to quickly start or add more time without having to press a series of buttons. Director of the Good Housekeeping Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, Nicole Papantoniou especially loves this button to start a microwave without having to push any buttons.
- Preset functions are standard these days, especially for defrosting (based on either weight or quantity), reheating and popcorn. But you might want a potato, beverage or melt preset.
- Child safety locks on microwaves are a good feature to look for if you have small children in your home. With this feature, the control panel of the oven is “locked” so that children or anyone unfamiliar with it cannot operate it accidentally.
Are microwave air fryers any good?
In our Lab tests we found microwave air fryers to in fact work and with some models, very well. Our list of picks is short because this type of combination appliance is newer on the market and some performed better than others in Lab tests. We stand behind the models on this list and think they have good performance and ease of use. The models on our list were able to churn out crispy, golden chicken wings and French fries and many also offered convection settings which could bake up nine-inch cakes in around 20 minutes.
Is an air fryer microwave the same as a convection microwave?
No, an air fryer microwave and convection microwave are two different types of microwaves. While a microwave can have convection and air fry settings (like some of the picks on this list), they are two separate settings. While they are similar settings that utilize a fan, the difference between an air fryer and convection oven is that an air fryer setting typically uses a larger, faster fan to yield crispier results than with convection. They both have benefits and should be used for separate tasks.
When we test, if a microwave has both convection and air fry in it, we test chicken wings with the air fry setting for crispy results and a nine-inch cake with convection for even browning results.
12 Best Air Fryer Microwave Combos (2023 Guide)
This detailed guide will help you find the best air fryer microwave combos for your kitchen! You’ll learn all about this helpful appliance, what to consider when looking for one, and the pros and cons of the top 12 air fryer microwaves available on the market today!
In modern day cooking, we all have our favorite appliances. There are microwave ovens, microwave toasters, and convection ovens, but what about a microwave air fryer? If you haven’t heard of this amazing kitchen tool yet, don’t worry. Air fryer microwave combos just recently hit the culinary market and are already taking it by storm.
So, are countertop air fryer microwave combos worth it? In this helpful guide, I’m covering everything you need to know about these trendy convection microwave ovens. Of course, I’ll also let you know how to get your hands on the best air fryer microwave combo around.
What Is An Air Fryer? How Do They Work?
If you’re not already on the air fryer bandwagon, allow me to be the first to welcome you. Trust me, you’re going to love it here. Over the last decade, air fryers have gained tremendous popularity for essentially being chic countertop convection ovens.
The air fryer technology is made to simulate a deep fryer, although it doesn’t deep fry foods (hello, less oil and healthier food). Instead, air fryers rapidly circulate hot air, which crisps up your food in less time than it would take to deep fry it.
Types Of Air Fryers
Now when you go to buy an air fryer, you’re going to have to choose between three different kinds of air fryers with different features.
The first is a paddle-type air fryer, which gets its name from a paddle that is rotated inside the machine’s basket. The paddle helps to circulate the air, so you don’t have to manually flip your food.
Then, we have the basket-type air fryer. This one got its name because it cooks food in —you guessed it— a basket. The basket is punctuated with holes so air can circulate easily, but you still have to manually flip your food. Basket-type air fryers are great for cooking foods like chicken wings and pizza bagels, but I would stay away from anything soupy or saucy.
The third kind of air fryer is a countertop convection oven with an air fryer function. Essentially, they use convection technology that is super similar to air frying. In general, convection toaster ovens boast a large capacity and lots of unique features that allow for variety when cooking meals.
What Is The Difference Between An Air Fryer And A Microwave?
The major difference between the two is that microwaves heat and reheat food, while air fryers alter the way it is cooked.
Air fryers use a heating coil to produce heat, then hot air is circulated within the basket or chamber. Microwaves, on the other hand, have internal heating elements that create microwaves (aka microwave radiation) that are zapped at your food to warm it through.
Air fryers are typically safer than microwaves (electromagnetic radiation can put your food at risk) and produce a much more desirable flavor and texture than microwaves. However, air fryers have longer cooking times and microwaves are the best option for heating large portions of food.
I recommend using air fryers to cook anything raw that you want transformed into crispy, delicious perfection.
However, microwave ovens may be the better choice for reheating cold food and leftovers. That being said, determining which is the better kitchen appliance will depend on your specific cooking needs at any given time.
What Are Air Fryer Microwaves?
An air fryer microwave or microwave air fryer is a small kitchen appliance that combines air fryers and microwaves into a single machine. The best way to describe it is as an appliance that has both a microwave setting and an air fryer setting, so you’re able to reap the benefits of both appliances.
What does that mean? Basically, microwaves are used to either cook or reheat food. Air fryers are used to cook food but also to get great texture, to brown foods, and fry foods without needing oil.
The best microwave air fryer combos will save you time and money and are able to cook food without using oil. A compact microwave air fryer combo is also easier to clean than a traditional oven, and it takes up minimal counter space.
On the flip side, a lot of folks don’t want to sacrifice additional counter space for their microwave air fryers. Furthermore, even though the overall cooking process is shorter than in a conventional oven, food can sometimes still take longer to cook in a microwave air fryer than in a regular microwave.
Benefits Of Air Fryer Microwaves
- Space-Saving: Combining two appliances into one (and sometimes more than two appliances, if you also get an microwave air fryer that has a convection feature) saves kitchen counter space! Some of these appliances can also be built into a cabinet or over the stove.
- Convenience: Having both an air fryer and a microwave in one appliance allows for quick and easy meal preparation.
- Versatility: The combination of cooking methods provides a variety of options for cooking and reheating food. There are also lots of different sizes to accommodate different kitchens and space needs.
- Energy Efficient: Using one appliance instead of two reduces overall energy consumption.
Downfalls Of Microwave Air Fryer Combos
- Price: These appliances tend to be more expensive than separate air fryers or microwaves.
- Limited Capacity: The size of the air fryer and microwave may be smaller than separate appliances, making it difficult to cook larger items.
- Complexity: The added features and functions of the combination appliance may make it more difficult to use, especially for those who are not familiar with air fryers or microwave ovens. But in my opinion, the learning curve is worth it!
What To Look For When Buying An Air Fryer Microwave
If you’re in the market for a top-rated microwave air fryer combo, there are a few key items to consider.
First and foremost, are you looking to cook big family meals? If so, you will need to select a combo microwave air fryer that is large enough to accommodate the whole crew.
On the other hand, if you have a smaller kitchen (with lower power levels), you’re going to be looking at a smaller appliance.
You should also consider a microwave air fryer’s features. If you’re looking to do more than simply roast chickens and cook fries, then you want to find an appliance with lots of cooking options and settings.
Of course, you should also consider the price you’re willing to pay, as everyone has different budgets. With microwave air fryers, you are paying for quality, so keep in mind that splurging initially might be worth it later on.
Criteria For Choosing The Best Air Fryer Microwave Combo Appliance
There are so many different air fryer microwave appliance combos out there, we had to be pretty scrutinizing when developing our list of the top 12. Here is the criteria we used to evaluate the best air fryer microwave appliances:
- Features: If you’re buying a combo appliance, you’re likely looking for it to cover as much functionality as possible. We prioritized microwave air fryers that had more features than most – such as multiple cooking settings, automatic shut-off, durability, adjustable power settings, even and efficient heating for both air frying and microwave cooking, etc.
- Ease Of Use: The appliance should be easy to use, with simple controls and clear instructions. It should also be easy to clean and maintain!
- Price: We prioritized air fryer microwave combo appliances that had the right balance of features and price.
- Reliability: We looked at both brand reputation and reviews to determine this. And while a warranty wasn’t a strict criteria, we did consider it a bonus!
- Customer Reviews: People’s experiences with these microwave air fryer combos matter! We took this into account.
- Size: We prioritized appliances that were large enough to cook efficiently, but not so large that they took up all the space someone in an average kitchen might have!
List Of 12 Best Air Fryer Microwave Combos
Ready to take the plunge? I’ve rounded up some of the best air fryer microwave combos on the market for you to choose from. Check out these air fryer microwave combo reviews to choose the one that makes the most sense for your home.
1. Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fryer – Best All In One, Top Pick
Looking for an all-in-one appliance to cook your whole meal? Allow me to introduce you to the Panasonic HomeChef. Yes, this thing really can do it all: microwave, broil, air fry, and convection bake. Seriously, this microwave air fryer is perfect for everything from quick weeknight dinners to crave-worthy desserts.
- Features: Partners with recipe apps Drop and SideChef to give you fun meal ideas; steel interior; child safety lock.
- Size: 1.2 cubic feet capacity and 14.97 x 15.36 x 9 inches
- Price: $529.95 USD
- Pros: It is both a microwave and a toaster oven combo, looks sleek, and has cooking times comparable to regular microwaves.
- Cons: Microwave buttons can be hard to see and there’s no online tutorial.
- What it’s known for: This 4-in-1 unit is terrific because it reduces oil/fat, has preset options, and includes safety features (a cooling fan).
- Why to consider it: You can replace your microwave with this product and add three additional functions for the same amount of space.
2. Galanz GTWHG12BKSA10 4-in-1 ToastWave – Good Variety, A Close Runner Up
This top-of-the-line appliance lands at the top of our list with TotalFry 360, a convection feature, a microwave, and an air fryer. Basically, it’s got everything you need to cook perfect meals every time for any occasion.
- Features: Stainless steel exterior; built-in humidity sensor (ensuring your food is never over or undercooked); a nonstick turntable.
- Size: 21.25 x 22.25 x 12.56 inches and 40.2 pounds
- Price: $533.12 USD
- Pros: Easy to use; great for beginners; offers a wide variety of functions.
- Cons: Takes up a lot of counter space; hot to the touch when in use.
- What it’s known for: It has an express cooking knob that replaces the need for cooking time conversions.
- Why to consider it: It is high-quality and well worth the price, given that you’re able to do almost anything with this appliance.
3. Toshiba ML2-EC10SA(BS) – Best Bang For Your Buck
My runner-up for the best air fryer microwave is the definition of multifunctional. (Think: air fry mode, microwave function, convection cooking, and grill/combi). This air fryer microwave is the best way to cook a ton of different foods.
- Features: Healthy air fryer helps you avoid added fats; easy-to-clean stainless steel interior; electronic controls.
- Size: 1 cubic foot capacity (can fit a whole roasted chicken and a 12-inch pizza)
- Price: $226.72 USD
- Pros: Saves countertop space; user-friendly with instruction guide; easy-to-use interface.
- Cons: Must preheat air fryer mode; no keypad.
- What it’s known for: Eco mode reduces the power usage of the device by 50 percent.
- Why to consider it: This appliance is incredibly user-friendly, making it ideal for first-timers.
4. Galanz GSWWA12S1SA10 3-in-1 SpeedWave – Versatile and Quiet
This is the best 3-in-1 microwave air fryer convection oven because it has a multitude of uses. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking to quickly reheat something, put together a complex meal, or fry up a quick snack, this appliance can handle it.
- Features: Touch-sensitive control panel; 10 cooking programs; heavy-duty ergonomic handle.
- Size: 1.2 cubic feet capacity and 21.19 x 22 x 12.19 inches
- Price: $286.20 USD
- Pros: It is super versatile and incredibly quiet.
- Cons: The glass door is too dark to see what’s going on inside.
- What it’s known for: This unit comes with 10 cooking programs: Bake, Air Fry, Roast, Microwave, Convection, Micro+Convection, Sensor Reheat, Sensor Cook, Popcorn, Defrost.
- Why to consider it: If you’re looking for an ultra-versatile microwave air fryer that doesn’t make a lot of noise, this is the one for you.
5. GE Profile 22” Countertop Microwave Oven – Large Capacity
This GE microwave air fryer combo is equipped with cooking controls and carved oven racks that ensure your food cooks to perfection every time. Its large size allows users to cook more at once than many other models, making it great for families.
- Features: Convection and microwave radiation; sensor cooking controls that automatically adjust the cooking time.
- Size: 20 x 21.1 x 12.1 inches and 1.5 cubic feet capacity
- Price: $889.99 USD
- Pros: It has 10 convection cooking options.
- Cons: It uses 1500 watts of energy, which is more than competitors.
- What it’s known for: This unit has an extra-large capacity of 1.5 cubic feet, making it ideal for cooking multiple dishes at once.
- Why to consider it: This unit is ideal for anyone who needs an easy-to-use microwave air fryer that can accommodate multiple dishes at once. (AKA busy moms who are feeding an army.)
6. Calphalon Performance Air Fry Convection Oven – Affordable and Versatile
Calphalon microwave air fryer reviews boast that this unit is one of the best air fryer microwave combinations available online, with a 4.5/5-star rating from over 2,500 reviews. With 11 precision cooking functions and turbo convection, this unit really can do it all.
- Features: 11 precision cooking functions; turbo convection; LCD screen; built-in-light.
- Size: Large capacity that can fit a 12” pizza and 18.7 x 15.8 x 11.6 inches
- Price: $242.99 USD
- Pros: Easy-to-clean interior; removable crumb tray; stainless steel exterior.
- Cons: It uses 1400 watts of energy, which is a bit more than its competition.
- What it’s known for: It uses quartz technology that delivers 40 percent more even heat, which generates the best results in the crispy food department.
- Why to consider it: This unit is more affordable than its competition yet can do just as much. I find this appliance is a great idea if you’re looking to get a good bang for your buck.
7. Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 – Smart Oven and Speedy
This Breville 3-in-1 appliance is one of the best microwave air fryers. It combines the speed of a microwave, the precision of a convection oven, and the efficiency of an air fryer for delicious, no-fuss meals in no time.
- Features: Easy-to-use preset buttons; illustrated instructions on monitoring panel; automatic settings to suit lots of different foods.
- Size: 21 x 20.4 x 21 inches and 1.1 cubic feet capacity
- Price: $449.95 USD
- Pros: It has a sleek glass door that allows you to watch your food cook.
- Cons: It’s a bit more expensive than some other air fryer microwave models.
- What it’s known for: This appliance has smart cook, smart reheat, and smart defrost options that are available through smart algorithms that steer power.
- Why to consider it: This unit is designed to cook your meals faster than other conventional ovens, making it a wonderful solution for busy moms and easy meal prep.
8. Toshiba ML-EC42P(BS) – Convenient and User-Friendly
The Toshiba ML-EC42P(BS) was one of the best microwave air fryer combos of 2021 for several reasons. Not only is it high-quality and adaptable, but this microwave air fryer is probably the most user-friendly of the bunch.
- Features: Pre-programmed settings to help with cooking; LED lighting; eco mode; child safety lock.
- Size: 1.5 cubic feet capacity
- Price: $254.99 USD
- Pros: It is equipped with a smart sensor that has a pre-programmed menu for popular foods —like potatoes, for example— ensuring optimal cooking results every time.
- Cons: The lightbulb is somewhat mediocre and might not last very long.
- What it’s known for: This unit has an extra-large capacity, making it great for cooking large meals or multiple dishes.
- Why to consider it: The Toshiba is incredibly user-friendly and is equipped with tons of convenience features (including multi-stage cooking, a child safety lock, clock and kitchen timer, a mute button, and more).
9. NuWave Bravo XL 10-in-1 Functions – Wide Variety for an Affordable Price
Talk about the holy grail of the best microwave convection oven air fryer combos. Believe it or not, this NuWave appliance boasts 10 functions in a single machine, making it the ultimate gadget for anyone looking to cook like a professional. If you can only afford one cooking appliance, why not make it one that functions as 10 appliances?
- Features: Temperature control; 30-quart capacity; 40 easy-to-follow recipes included.
- Size: 30 quarts capacity
- Price: $189.99 USD
- Pros: It offers a bigger cooking surface than standard air fryers and is less expensive than most without sacrificing quality. Keep in mind also, that there are two versions of this air fryer microwave – one with a keypad and one with a knob – so make sure to buy the version that works best for you!
- Cons: The instructions aren’t super clear and the manual can be hard to follow.
- What it’s known for: This unit cooks food in a wide range of temperatures and works within five cooking stages.
- Why to consider it: This microwave air fryer is designed to be much safer and more efficient than a regular oven. Not to mention, you’re getting a ton of clever touches for an affordable price.
10. Cuisinart AMW-60 3-in-1 Oven Air Fryer Microwave Combo — Most Compact
This Cuisinart air fryer takes all the benefits of a microwave air fryer combo and compacts it into the smallest amount of surface area. It’s perfect for college dorms and smaller kitchens!
- Features: 11 power levels; touchpad controls; LED display; easy to use and clean.
- Size: 0.6 cubic feet capacity and 14.4 x 17.9 x 13.8 inches
- Price: $249.95 USD
- Pros: It takes up less counter space than the competition.
- Cons: This model isn’t able to hold larger meals or multiple dishes at once.
- What it’s known for: This unit offers all the same terrific benefits of an air fryer microwave combo without taking up your entire countertop.
- Why to consider it: If you have a smaller kitchen — or less available counter space — this unit is the one for you! It was made for folks who want to fit an air fryer microwave in those harder-to-reach places.
11. LG Studio Over-the-Range Convection Microwave Oven with Air Fry — Best Over The Range Air Fryer Microwave Combo
This LG Studio Air Fryer Over-the-Range Convection Microwave allows you to bake, roast, air fry – all without giving up any counter space! With no preheat needed, you can air fry your favorite recipes easily and quickly!
- Features: Convection and humidity sensing technology ensures perfectly cooked food every time. 8 one-touch settings, 5 power levels, LED display. Uses 950 watts of energy.
- Size: 1.7 cubic feet capacity and 29 x 16.9 x 16.4 inches
- Price: $899 USD, 2 year limited warranty
- Pros: Saves you a ton of counter space by allowing you to install this above your range!
- Cons: It is on the pricier side, and requires installation (you can’t just set it on your countertop and start using it)
- What it’s known for: You can literally do everything with this appliance! It functions as a second oven, that also happens to be an air fryer. It also has a huge capacity of 1.7 cubic feet, making it easy to cook large quantities at once.
- Why to consider it: Great for anyone who wants to save counter space, and wants an all-in-one appliance.
12. GE Profile Over the Range Microwave With Air Fry — More Budget Friendly Over The Range Air Fryer Microwave
This is my more budget-friendly pick for an over-the-range air fryer microwave. With smart home technology, and convection cooking – it has all of the key features you’d want with a slightly smaller price tag!
- Features: Convection Oven, Microwave Rack, Removable Filter, Interior Light, sensor cooking controls, LED display.
- Size: 1.7 cubic feet capacity and 29.9 x 16.3 x 17.3 inches
- Price: $759 USD, 1 year warranty
- Pros: 10 power levels and 14 one touch settings (more than the LG version)
- Cons: It doesn’t have as sleek of a design as the LG version, and some users report the convection technology is uneven.
- What it’s known for: It’s large capacity (1.7 cubic feet) and the ability to tightly control how you’re cooking your food due to the large number of settings.
- Why to consider it: If you want to save counter space and save some money on buying an over-the-range air fryer microwave!
Air Fryer Recipes To Try!
Now that you’ve gotten your hands on one of the best microwaves with an air fryer, it’s time to put it to use! From wings and fries to bread and baked goods, there are tons of incredible ways to use an air fryer. Here are some of the best air fryer recipes to try:
Air Fryer FAQs
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about air fryers:
Can I replace my microwave with an air fryer?
While air fryers can technically warm foods, they’re more likely to crisp up your food than a regular microwave oven. If you’re looking to replace your old microwave, I recommend opting for one of the best microwave and air fryer combos instead.
What cannot be cooked in an air fryer?
You shouldn’t cook battered, saucy, or soupy foods in your air fryer, as they won’t be very fun to clean up. I also don’t recommend cooking large, whole chickens inside your air fryer, as you risk cooking them unevenly.
Can you put raw meat in an air fryer?
Yes! You can safely put raw meat and even frozen raw meat into your air fryer. If you forget to thaw your meat in advance, don’t worry—just pop it into the air fryer and add some extra time (exact time depends on weight) to the clock to compensate.
Final Thoughts
So, is an air fryer microwave combination worth it? After reading about the best microwave convection air fryer combos, I hope you’ve figured out your answer! Both air fryers and microwaves are amazing kitchen gadgets to have at home, but a combination of the two is a terrific way to save counter space and maximize your cooking abilities.
If you’re considering a new microwave air fryer, I hope this guide to air fryers provided the gentle push that you might have needed. Have fun shopping for your new favorite appliance and feel free to browse my air fryer recipe list for some tasty ways to get started. Happy frying!