Imagine a kitchen gadget that can bake crispy fries, reheat leftovers perfectly, and even roast a chicken, all in one compact appliance. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, it’s not a dream anymore! Combination microwave air fryers are here, and they’re changing the way we cook.
But with so many models and features out there, choosing the right one can feel like a puzzle. Do you need a big one or a small one? What about all those buttons? It’s easy to get confused and wonder if you’re picking the best fit for your kitchen and your cooking style. We get it, and we’re here to help!
In this post, we’ll break down what makes a great combination microwave air fryer. We’ll guide you through the important things to look for, so you can stop worrying and start cooking. Get ready to discover how this amazing appliance can save you time, space, and make meal prep a whole lot easier and tastier!
Our Top 5 Combination Microwave Air Fryer Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Combination Microwave Air Fryer Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.6/10
Meet the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, ML2-EC10SA(BS). This kitchen gadget is a game-changer, offering a ton of cooking options in one sleek, black stainless steel package. It’s not just a microwave; it’s also an air fryer, convection oven, and broiler. Plus, it has a special odor removal mode to keep your kitchen smelling fresh. The 1.0 cu.ft. capacity is surprisingly large, fitting things like a whole roasted chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
What We Like:
- It’s an 8-in-1 wonder: microwave, air fry, bake (convection), broil, combi., low temp., odor removal, and defrost all in one.
- Enjoy healthier fried foods with the air fry feature.
- The 1000-watt microwave power cooks food fast.
- Its compact size fits easily on your counter, but it holds a lot.
- The 12.4-inch turntable remembers your food’s position, so you don’t have to rearrange it.
- One-touch popcorn and easy knobs make cooking simple.
- The child lock is a great safety feature.
- It looks super stylish with its black stainless steel finish.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “figure” for the child lock needs to be very clear for parents to follow.
This TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, blending convenience, health, and style. It truly simplifies meal preparation and offers a versatile cooking experience.
2. BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry
Rating: 8.9/10
The BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen helper. It cooks, fries, bakes, roasts, and uses convection heat. This countertop appliance saves space while offering many cooking options. Its stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen.
What We Like:
- It has five cooking functions: microwave, air fryer, combi, bake, and roast. This means you can make many different foods.
- The air fryer function has 11 special presets. It makes cooking things like french fries and chicken nuggets super easy.
- It cooks food quickly. A simple button press gives you 30 seconds of full power.
- The child-lock feature is a great safety addition. You can lock the buttons so little ones can’t accidentally change settings.
- It has 7 auto menus for common foods like popcorn and potatoes.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.9 cu. ft. size might be small for cooking large meals or for big families.
- While it has many functions, mastering all of them might take some practice.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen for its many cooking abilities. It’s a great choice for those who want a multi-functional appliance that saves counter space.
3. FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave
Rating: 9.2/10
The FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave, Digital Air Fryer, Convection Oven, Combo-Fry with XL Capacity, Stainless Steel Finish is a kitchen powerhouse that does it all. This appliance is designed to simplify your cooking and give you more options. It looks great on your counter with its sleek stainless steel finish.
What We Like:
- It’s super versatile! You can bake, roast, microwave, and use it as a convection oven.
- The air fryer feature makes food crispy with up to 70% less fat. That’s healthier!
- It has five easy one-touch cook menus for common foods like potatoes, popcorn, and frozen dinners.
- The defrost function works by time or weight, making it simple to prepare frozen items.
- It has a powerful 1000W microwave and a 1000W oven, plus 1500W for convection cooking.
- The 1.2 cu ft capacity is nice and large, so it can handle bigger meals.
- There are 10 different power levels for precise cooking.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the many functions a little overwhelming at first.
- It takes up a decent amount of counter space due to its XL capacity.
This Frigidaire combo appliance is a fantastic option for busy households. It offers a wide range of cooking methods in one convenient unit.
4. GE GCST10A1WSS 1.0 Cu Ft Convection Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.1/10
Meet the GE GCST10A1WSS, a 1.0 cubic foot convection microwave oven that packs a punch for its size. This countertop appliance boasts 1050 watts of power and combines microwave, air fry, broil, and convection cooking into one sleek, compact stainless steel unit. It’s designed to be a versatile kitchen helper, fitting easily into smaller spaces like dorm rooms or apartments without sacrificing functionality.
What We Like:
- It’s compact but powerful, offering a good balance for smaller kitchens.
- The air fry mode makes food crispy and healthier.
- Convection cooking ensures your food is evenly browned and cooked through.
- The broil mode sears and finishes food like a grill.
- Preset controls are super easy to use for common foods like fries.
- The child lock feature adds safety for families.
- The glass turntable cooks food evenly.
What Could Be Improved:
- While compact, some users might prefer a larger capacity for bigger meals.
- The instruction manual could be clearer for advanced features.
This GE microwave is a fantastic all-in-one appliance for anyone needing versatility in a small package. It truly simplifies cooking with its many features.
5. Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.1/10
The Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen helper. It combines a microwave, air fryer, and convection oven into one appliance. This means you can microwave your food, air fry it for a crispy texture, or bake it with the convection feature. You can even combine microwave and convection cooking for faster results. It’s designed to make cooking healthier and more convenient.
What We Like:
- It’s a 4-in-1 appliance: microwave, air fryer, convection, and combination cooking. This saves counter space.
- Healthy air frying lets you enjoy fried foods with less fat.
- The convection feature helps create better textures for baked and roasted foods.
- It has smart sensor menus that automatically set cooking times and temperatures for popular foods like pizza and vegetables.
- The large 1.5 cubic foot capacity and 13.6-inch turntable fit a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- The stainless steel interior is stylish and easy to clean.
- Convenience features like one-touch popcorn, memory function, speedy cooking, and a mute option are very handy. The mute function is great for quiet kitchens.
What Could Be Improved:
- The exterior color is black with a stainless steel door frame, which might not match all kitchen decors perfectly.
- While it has many functions, mastering all of them might take a little practice for some users.
This Toshiba appliance offers a lot of functionality in a single unit. It’s a solid choice for busy families looking for a convenient and healthier way to cook.
Your Guide to a Combination Microwave Air Fryer
Are you looking for a kitchen gadget that can do it all? A microwave air fryer combo might be just what you need. This appliance combines the speed of a microwave with the crisping power of an air fryer. It can also often bake, roast, and toast. Let’s dive into what you should consider before buying one.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep an eye out for these important features:
- Cooking Modes: Most combos offer microwave, air fry, and convection bake. Some have extra modes like roast, toast, or even dehydrate. More modes mean more cooking options.
- Capacity: How much food can it hold? This is measured in cubic feet or liters. A larger capacity is good for families or if you cook big meals. A smaller one is fine for singles or couples.
- Wattage: This tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. For air frying, look at the air fryer’s wattage too.
- Smart Features: Some models have pre-programmed settings for popular foods. Others connect to apps for recipes and remote control. These can make cooking easier.
- Ease of Cleaning: Look for non-stick interior coatings and removable parts like trays or racks. This will save you a lot of scrubbing time.
Important Materials
The materials used in a microwave air fryer combo affect its durability and performance.
- Interior: Stainless steel interiors are common. They are durable and easy to clean. Some have ceramic or enamel coatings. These are also easy to wipe down.
- Exterior: Most exteriors are made of stainless steel or plastic. Stainless steel looks sleek and is durable. Plastic is lighter and often more affordable.
- Air Fry Basket/Tray: These are usually made of metal with a non-stick coating. A sturdy basket that’s easy to remove is a plus.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a combo microwave air fryer better or worse.
- Even Cooking: A good unit will cook food evenly. This is especially important for air frying. Look for reviews that mention consistent results. Poor airflow or weak heating elements can lead to uneven cooking.
- Durability: Well-built units with quality components will last longer. Cheap plastic parts or weak hinges can break over time.
- Noise Level: Some appliances are louder than others. If you are sensitive to noise, check reviews for comments on how loud the unit is when operating.
- User Interface: A simple and intuitive control panel makes using the appliance much easier. Confusing buttons or a hard-to-read display can be frustrating.
User Experience and Use Cases
These appliances are designed to simplify your cooking.
- Quick Meals: Use the microwave function for reheating leftovers or cooking frozen meals fast.
- Crispy Snacks: The air fryer function is perfect for making fries, chicken wings, or vegetables crispy and delicious without a lot of oil.
- Baking and Roasting: Use the convection bake setting to bake cookies, roast chicken, or prepare other dishes that benefit from even heat.
- Space Saving: If you have a small kitchen, a combo unit replaces multiple appliances, saving valuable counter space.
- Versatility: You can cook a whole meal in one appliance. Start by roasting vegetables, then microwave some rice, and finish with air-fried chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main difference between an air fryer and an air fryer microwave combo?
A: An air fryer heats food using hot air. A combo unit has both a microwave and an air fryer function in one appliance.
Q: Can I use metal in an air fryer microwave combo?
A: You can use metal for baking or roasting in convection mode. However, never put metal in the microwave function unless the manual specifically says it’s okay for certain items.
Q: How do I clean a combination microwave air fryer?
A: Always unplug the appliance first. Wipe the interior with a damp cloth. Removable parts like trays and baskets can usually be washed in warm, soapy water or placed in the dishwasher if they are dishwasher-safe.
Q: Are combination microwave air fryers worth the money?
A: They can be. If you use all the functions regularly, they save space and can be more cost-effective than buying separate appliances.
Q: What kind of foods cook best in an air fryer microwave combo?
A: Foods that benefit from crisping, like fries, chicken tenders, and vegetables, cook well in air fry mode. Microwaving is good for reheating and quick cooking. Convection baking is best for cakes, cookies, and roasts.
Q: How long do these appliances typically last?
A: With good care, a quality unit can last 5 to 10 years or more.
Q: Does the air fryer function make food taste fried?
A: Yes, it makes food crispy and golden brown, similar to deep frying but with much less oil.
Q: Can I use the microwave and air fryer at the same time?
A: Some advanced models allow this. It’s often called a “combination cooking” mode where you can microwave and air fry simultaneously for faster cooking and crisping.
Q: What is the typical power consumption?
A: Microwave power is usually between 700-1200 watts. Air fryer power can range from 1000-1800 watts. The total power draw will depend on which function you are using.
Q: Are there any safety concerns I should be aware of?
A: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure proper ventilation. Never operate the microwave with the door open. Be careful of hot surfaces after cooking.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Florence Disha, the creator behind HomesMend.com. With a passion for making every house a home, I share my personal experiences, tips, and expertise to help you transform your living spaces. Whether it’s practical advice, creative ideas, or tried-and-true solutions, my goal is to inspire and guide you in creating a home that feels just right. Let’s make every corner of your space truly yours!