Imagine a kitchen where one sleek appliance does the job of three! No more cluttered counters packed with a microwave, a bulky air fryer, and a separate convection oven. Wouldn’t that save you time, space, and maybe even some sanity?
The promise of a 3-in-1 microwave, air fryer, and convection oven sounds amazing. But when you start shopping, the features, brands, and price tags can quickly feel overwhelming. Which one truly delivers on all three functions? You want crispy fries *and* perfectly reheated leftovers, but picking the right machine feels like a major gamble.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down exactly what to look for, what each function does best, and which models offer the best bang for your buck. By the end of this post, you will know exactly which appliance fits your cooking style.
Ready to declutter your kitchen and upgrade your cooking game? Let’s dive into the top contenders for the best 3-in-1 powerhouse.
Top 3 In-1 Microwave Air Fryer Convection Oven Recommendations
- 3-IN-1 APPLIANCE: Combines Air Fryer, Convection Oven and Microwave into one versatile kitchen appliance; Create French fries with Air Fry function; Enjoy chocolate brownies with Convection Oven function; Defrost delicious soup with Inverter Microwave
- ELEMENT IQ SYSTEM: Smart algorithms steer power where and when it's needed to create a specifically tailored cooking environment; Enjoy crispy golden results and delicious meals with Air Fry and Bake functions; Power: 1200 W - Convection Input Power
- FAST COMBI & COOK FROM FROZEN FUNCTIONS: Cook dishes faster than traditional ovens with Fast Combi, which combines Convection Oven, Grilling and Microwave; Cook from Frozen achieves precisely cooked results from frozen; All in one countertop appliance
- POWER SMOOTHING INVERTER: Automatically adjust intensity and deliver smooth, even power when you need more or less; Breville appliance reheats pizza slices, soup and lasagna with precision; Defrost meats and meals without overheating or drying out edges
- SMART COOK, SMART REHEAT & SMART DEFROST: 19 built-in smart presets put all the power at your fingertips; Smooth, low temperature delivers heat evenly without overheating and drying out, allowing you to cook, reheat and defrost your favorite dishes
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- 8-in-1 Multifuntional Microwave One microwave with multi-functions of microwave, air fry, bake(convection), broil (grill), combi., low temp., odor removal, defrost can fulfill more usages.
- Healthy Air Fryer Microwave Combo: Enjoy your wholesome fried food with original taste but less fat with healthy air fry.
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimension (WxDxH): 20.6*18.0*11.8 inches, internal dimension (WxDxH):14.0*13.2*9.5 inches, 12.4-inch position memory turntable
- Compact Size but Large Capacity & Powerful: Small Footprint as Kitchen Essential, 12.4inch removable turntable can fit a whole roasted chicken, 12 inch pizza and 8*4 inch casserole, offers the perfect balance of size and convenience.
- 5-in-1 Microwave Oven: Use this essential countertop appliance for cooking in five functions: microwave, air fryer, combi (grill/convection), bake, and roast for all of your culinary needs.
- 10 Cooking Levels: Featuring a 900-watt output, this compact microwave has 7 auto menus, including settings for Beverage, Fresh/Frozen Vegetables, Oatmeal, Potato, Popcorn, and Frozen Pizza.
- Air Fry Presets: This small-but-mighty microwave has 11 preset air fry menus, including for cooking frozen French fries, steak fries, squid rings, chicken nuggets/wings/legs, fish sticks/fillets, cheese sticks, vegetables, and spring rolls with an easy-to-use operation.
- Speedy Cooking: Directly press the start button to cook food at 100% power for 30 seconds and press again for an additional 30 seconds.
- Child-Lock Setting: Press the stop button for 3 seconds to lock the control panel to keep little hands from clicking buttons on the appliance.
- 4-in-1 Multifuntional Countertop Microwave One microwave with multi-functions of microwave, air fry, convection, combination cooking (microwave plus convection) can fulfill more usages
- Healthy Air Fryer Combo Enjoy your wholesome fried food with original taste but less fat with healthy air fry
- One Kitchen Appliance, Better Texture Combines microwave and convection cooking in one appliance, with auto bake, defrosting and auto roast menus. Also with pre-programmed sensor menu for optimum result of popular foods like frozen pizza, vegetables and more
- Large Capacity for a Family Size 13.6inch removable turntable can fit a whole roasted chicken, 12-inch pizza
- Stylish Appearance: Stainless steel finish (color of door frame is stainless steel, enclosure is black) with easy to clean stainless steel interior
- 4-in-1 Multifuntional Countertop Microwave One microwave with multi-functions of microwave, air fry, convection, combination cooking (microwave plus convection) can fulfill more usages.
- Healthy Air Fryer Combo Enjoy your wholesome fried food with original taste but less fat with healthy air fry
- One Kitchen Appliance, Better Texture Combines microwave and convection cooking in one appliance; with auto bake, defrosting and auto roast menus; Also with pre-programmed sensor menu for optimum result of popular foods like frozen pizza, vegetables and more.
- Large Capacity for a Family Size 13.6inch removable turntable can fit a whole roasted chicken, 12-inch pizza
- Stylish Appearance: Black Stainless steel finish with easy to clean stainless steel interior.
- 【6-In-1 Ultimate Versatility】This multi-microwave with 10 power levels is your ultimate kitchen helper. The versatility as a microwave, air fryer, convection oven, broiler, defroster, Speedy-Combi, make it your best countertop space-saver
- 【Inverter Technology for Even Cooking & Defrost】TOSHIBA ORIGIN Inverter Technology allows more uniform distribution of heat in cavity, provides even cooking, reheating and defrosting, the maximum tender texture. Also the 50dB working noise level brings you and your family a quiet and undisturbed cooking environment.
- 【Less Fat and Crispier】TOSHIBA convection microwave with 360° heat circulation air fry cuts down on calories by using no added oil while delivering crispier and golden fried food like chicken nuggets, fried fish and French fries. The supplied bake tray and two wire racks are used for optimal air fry results. NOTE: Please use convection mode if need to customize timing and temperature, functions equally as air fryer.
- 【Speed up Cooking with Combi-Modes】Despite powerful output of 1800W under Convection up to 425°F and 1000W under Grill, Combi-Modes speed up your cooking with combination of Microwave, convection and grill function, while delivering perfect dishes with crispy, browned outsides and tender texture insides.
- 【Discover Amazing Recipes】Comes with an original cookbook with 27 classic recipes. Also, the microwave itself has 11 Auto Menus, 10 Air Fry Menus and 6 Defrost Presets, so that novice can also make Michelin-star meals at home. External Dimension: 19.5''W x 17.6''D x 11.5''H with 11.3'' turntable.
- 【6-In-1 Ultimate Versatility】This multi-microwave with 10 power levels is your ultimate kitchen helper. The versatility as a microwave, air fryer, convection oven, broiler, defroster, Speedy-Combi, make it your best countertop space-saver
- 【Inverter Technology for Even Cooking & Defrost】TOSHIBA ORIGIN Inverter Technology allows more uniform distribution of heat in cavity, provides even cooking, reheating and defrosting, the maximum tender texture. Also the 50dB working noise level brings you and your family a quiet and undisturbed cooking environment.
- 【Less Fat and Crispier】TOSHIBA convection microwave with 360° heat circulation air fry cuts down on calories by using no added oil while delivering crispier and golden fried food like chicken nuggets, fried fish and French fries. The supplied bake tray and two wire racks are used for optimal air fry results. NOTE: Please use convection mode if need to customize timing and temperature, functions equally as air fryer.
- 【Speed up Cooking with Combi-Modes】Despite powerful output of 1800W under Convection up to 425°F and 1000W under Grill, Combi-Modes speed up your cooking with combination of Microwave, convection and grill function, while delivering perfect dishes with crispy, browned outsides and tender texture insides.
- 【Discover Amazing Recipes】Comes with an original cookbook with 27 classic recipes. Also, the microwave itself has 11 Auto Menus, 10 Air Fry Menus and 6 Defrost Presets, so that novice can also make Michelin-star meals at home. External Dimension: 19.5''W x 17.6''D x 11.5''H with 11.3'' turntable.
- All-In-One Multi Oven Does The Work So You Don't Have To: Spend less time cooking and more time enjoying family; 4-in-1 countertop oven creates easy, delicious meals by pairing with our Kitchen+ app to cook everything, from tender roasts to crisp and juicy air fry
- Mealtime Simplified, Powered by Our App: Pick your dish from the Panasonic Kitchen+ app, gather ingredients, and pair your phone with the oven; the built-in modes of microwave, broiler, airfryer, and convection oven automate to help you create perfectly-cooked meals with little effort
- Discover New Quick-and-Easy Family Favorites: You'll never be stuck in a rut when deciding what to make; scroll the Panasonic Kitchen+ App and bookmark recipes they'll love, so its always easy to find a meal everyone can agree on, and make it quickly
- Backed by Legendary Panasonic Quality: Reliable performance, made with your family's needs in mind; Inverter technology for even defrosting, reheating, cooking, & warming; Genius technology prevents over-or under-cooking; Turbo Defrost, and more
- Sleek, Space Saving Design: Large capacity, small overall footprint - 22”W x 13.4”H x 17.7”D with 14.2” turntable; place on countertop or make it a built in microwave oven with optional trim kit (NN-TK81KCS)"
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Your 3-in-1 Microwave Air Fryer Convection Oven
Welcome to the future of kitchen gadgets! A 3-in-1 appliance combines the speed of a microwave, the crispiness of an air fryer, and the versatility of a convection oven. Choosing the right one can feel tricky. This guide helps you pick the best model for your home.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, focus on these important functions. A good 3-in-1 unit should do all three jobs well.
1. Cooking Power and Capacity
- Wattage: Higher wattage usually means faster cooking, especially for the microwave function. Look for at least 1000 watts if you use the microwave a lot.
- Capacity (Size): Think about how much food you cook. Small apartments might need 18-20 quarts. Families often need 25 quarts or larger to fit a small chicken or a full pizza.
2. Dedicated Cooking Modes
- Air Fry Quality: Does it have a high-powered fan for true air frying? Look for settings specifically labeled “Air Fry.”
- Convection Heating: Check if it uses a heating element *and* a fan for even baking and roasting.
- Sensor Cooking: Some smart models use sensors to detect steam and adjust cooking times automatically. This prevents overcooking.
3. Ease of Use and Cleaning
- Control Panel: Digital touchpads are easier to clean than old knobs. Clear, labeled buttons make operation simple.
- Interior Lighting: A bright light lets you check food without opening the door and losing heat.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials inside and outside affect how long your appliance lasts and how safe it is.
Durability Matters
- Exterior: Stainless steel looks great and resists fingerprints better than plain black plastic. Ensure the door hinges feel sturdy.
- Interior Cavity: Stainless steel interiors are easier to wipe clean than painted metal. They also handle high convection heat well.
- Accessories: Make sure the included air fryer basket and racks are heavy-duty. Thin, flimsy racks warp easily under heat.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
These details separate a budget model from a high-quality workhorse.
What Makes It Better?
- Inverter Technology (Microwave): Inverter microwaves deliver steady power, which cooks food more evenly than traditional models that cycle the power on and off. This improves the microwave results greatly.
- Air Circulation Design: Models that blow hot air from the top *and* bottom tend to crisp food faster and more evenly in air fry mode.
What Should You Avoid?
- Poor Insulation: If the outside gets extremely hot during air frying or convection cooking, the insulation is weak. This wastes energy and poses a burn risk.
- Proprietary Racks: If the appliance only fits one specific, hard-to-find rack, cleaning and replacing accessories becomes difficult and expensive.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use the appliance daily.
Who Needs This Appliance?
- The Busy Cook: You can defrost leftovers quickly with the microwave, then switch immediately to air fry mode to crisp up fries without dirtying a separate appliance.
- The Small Kitchen Dweller: This replaces three separate bulky items, saving valuable counter space.
- The Health-Conscious Eater: Air frying uses significantly less oil than deep frying, offering a healthier way to get crispy textures.
Test the transition between modes in your mind. Can you easily go from microwaving a frozen dinner to air frying the crust to perfection? A smooth, intuitive workflow ensures you actually use all three functions.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use metal pans inside when using the air fry or convection setting?
A: Yes, generally you can use metal bakeware in convection and air fry mode. However, *never* use metal or foil inside when the microwave function is active, as this causes dangerous sparking.
Q: Does the air fryer function cook as well as a dedicated air fryer?
A: Most high-quality 3-in-1 units cook very well, especially those with powerful top-down heating elements. Look for reviews that specifically praise the crispness achieved.
Q: How much counter space do these machines usually take up?
A: They are larger than a standard microwave. Measure your space carefully. Expect a footprint similar to a large bread maker or a small microwave.
Q: Is cleaning difficult because it has three functions?
A: Cleaning is usually simple. The microwave interior cleans easily with steam. Air fry components (baskets/racks) are often non-stick and dishwasher safe. Quality models make cleaning easy.
Q: Do I have to wait for it to preheat for all three modes?
A: You must preheat for air frying and convection baking, just like a regular oven. The microwave function starts instantly.
Q: What is the main advantage over owning three separate appliances?
A: The main advantage is saving counter space and cost. You also save time because you might use one appliance for multiple steps (like defrosting then crisping).
Q: Are these units loud when operating?
A: The microwave function is quiet. The air fry and convection modes use powerful fans, so they produce noise similar to a loud vent hood or a standard toaster oven.
Q: Can I bake a cake in the convection mode?
A: Yes, the convection setting allows you to bake cakes, cookies, and roast meats just like a traditional oven, often with faster results due to the smaller size.
Q: What happens if the power goes out?
A: Like most modern appliances, the settings and presets are usually lost, and you will need to reset the clock and saved programs once power returns.
Q: Should I buy the largest capacity I can afford?
A: If you often cook for four or more people, yes, a larger capacity improves performance across all modes. A larger air fryer space means food cooks more evenly.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!