Imagine a kitchen gadget that can reheat your leftovers perfectly and also make your fries wonderfully crispy. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, that dream appliance might be closer than you think: the microwave air fryer combination. But with so many models out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You want the best of both worlds, but wading through confusing features and comparing prices can feel like a chore.
You’re not alone in this kitchen conundrum! Many people are looking for ways to save space and time, and these combo appliances promise just that. However, picking the right one can be tricky. You might wonder if it truly replaces both a microwave and a separate air fryer, or if it’s just a jack-of-all-trades, master-of-none. We’re here to help you cut through the noise.
By the end of this post, you’ll understand what makes a good microwave air fryer combo tick. We’ll break down the key features to look for, explain how they work, and even offer some tips on what to cook. Get ready to transform your cooking experience and discover how this versatile appliance can become your new kitchen MVP!
Our Top 5 Microwave Air Fryer Combination Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave Air Fryer Combination Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.2/10
The TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven is a kitchen powerhouse that does more than just heat food. It’s a versatile appliance that can air fry, bake, broil, and even remove odors, all while looking sleek in your kitchen with its black stainless steel finish. This oven is designed to make cooking easier and healthier, fitting a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza on its spacious turntable.
What We Like:
- It’s an 8-in-1 machine, so it can do many different cooking jobs: microwave, air fry, bake, broil, and more.
- The air fryer feature lets you enjoy crispy, fried foods with less fat.
- It has a powerful 1000-watt microwave output for quick cooking.
- The 12.4-inch turntable is big enough for larger dishes and remembers where to stop.
- A child lock keeps little hands from starting it by accident.
- It has useful features like one-touch popcorn and a mute button.
- The black stainless steel looks very stylish and is easy to clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions for the two-step child lock could be clearer.
- While it has a compact footprint, the overall power input is 1600 watts, which is something to consider for your kitchen’s electrical needs.
This TOSHIBA microwave oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering a lot of cooking options in one convenient appliance.
2. BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry
Rating: 9.3/10
Meet the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven, your new kitchen superhero. This countertop appliance is a game-changer, combining five cooking methods into one sleek stainless steel unit. It’s perfect for busy families and anyone who loves to cook without a fuss.
What We Like:
- It’s a 5-in-1 wonder: microwave, air fryer, combi (grill/convection), bake, and roast. You can cook almost anything!
- It has 10 cooking levels and 900 watts of power, making it strong and efficient.
- The 7 auto menus take the guesswork out of cooking common items like popcorn and frozen pizza.
- The 11 air fry presets are amazing for crispy fries, chicken wings, and more. It cooks them perfectly with little effort.
- Speedy cooking is a breeze. Just press start for 30 seconds or add more time with another press.
- The child-lock feature is a great safety addition, keeping little hands away from the controls.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity might be a bit small for larger meals or families.
- While it has many functions, mastering all of them might take some practice.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a versatile and powerful addition to any kitchen. It simplifies cooking and offers a variety of healthy and delicious options.
3. Uten 8-in-1 Air Fryer Microwave Combo – Large 25.4QT
Rating: 8.7/10
Meet the Uten 8-in-1 Air Fryer Microwave Combo, a true kitchen game-changer. This sleek black appliance packs a punch, combining a powerful air fryer and a speedy microwave into one space-saving unit. It’s designed to make your cooking faster, easier, and more versatile. Prepare for delicious meals and quick reheating with this 25.4QT powerhouse.
What We Like:
- It’s a 2-in-1 appliance, so you save counter space by having both an air fryer and a microwave in one.
- The extra-large 25.4QT capacity is great for cooking for your whole family or for parties.
- You can create your own custom cooking settings, or choose from 8 helpful presets for easy cooking.
- The 1800W power cooks food much faster than regular appliances, saving you time.
- The stainless steel interior is easy to wipe clean, making cleanup a breeze.
- A child lock feature adds an extra layer of safety for families.
What Could Be Improved:
- The child lock needs to be held for two seconds to disengage, which might feel a bit slow if you’re in a hurry.
This Uten Air Fryer Microwave Combo is an excellent addition to any kitchen looking for efficiency and versatility. It simplifies meal prep and cleanup, making it a winner for busy households.
4. GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.7/10
The GE GCST10A1WSS is a versatile kitchen appliance that does more than just heat food. It’s a microwave, air fryer, broiler, and convection oven all in one! This stainless steel beauty has a 1.0 cubic foot capacity and 1,050 watts of power. It’s also a great fit for smaller spaces like dorm rooms or busy kitchens.
What We Like:
- It cooks food faster and makes it crispier with the built-in air fryer.
- The convection mode cooks food evenly and gives it a nice golden-brown color.
- You can easily sear or caramelize food with the broiler mode.
- Preset controls make cooking simple, like for fries and nuggets.
- The two-step child lock feature keeps little ones safe.
- It’s compact but still powerful, fitting well on countertops.
- The glass turntable ensures food cooks evenly all around.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many functions, mastering all of them might take some practice.
- The compact size might not be enough for very large families or big meals.
This GE oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering a lot of cooking options in one convenient appliance. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking for a multi-functional and space-saving solution.
5. TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo
Rating: 8.7/10
Meet the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo, a true kitchen multitasker. It’s more than just a microwave; it’s your new best friend for cooking, baking, and frying. This appliance saves you precious counter space by combining multiple cooking functions into one sleek unit. With its inverter technology and smart sensors, it ensures your food is cooked perfectly every time.
What We Like:
- Incredibly versatile, acting as a microwave, air fryer, convection oven, broiler, and more.
- The inverter microwave and humidity sensor provide even cooking, preventing cold spots and overcooking.
- Air frying uses 360° rapid heat circulation, making food crispy with less oil.
- Combi-modes cleverly combine microwave, convection, and grill functions to speed up cooking and deliver delicious results.
- Comes with a recipe book and numerous auto menus to help even beginner cooks create amazing meals.
- The mute function is a nice touch for quieter kitchens.
What Could Be Improved:
- The external dimensions might be a bit large for very small kitchens.
- While it has many features, mastering all the combi-modes and auto menus might take some practice.
This TOSHIBA combo oven is an excellent choice for anyone looking to simplify their cooking and expand their culinary horizons. It offers fantastic functionality and convenience for busy households.
Microwave Air Fryer Combo: Your Kitchen’s New Best Friend
Thinking about getting a microwave air fryer combo? It’s a smart move! These gadgets do more than just reheat leftovers. They bake, roast, and fry your food to crispy perfection. Let’s break down what to look for.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop, keep these features in mind.
Versatility is King
The best combos offer multiple cooking functions. Look for models that can microwave, air fry, bake, roast, and even grill. This means you can cook almost anything in one appliance. Think crispy fries, juicy chicken wings, and fluffy baked potatoes.
Capacity Matters
How much food do you usually cook? Combos come in different sizes. A small one is good for one or two people. A larger one works well for families. Check the internal dimensions. Make sure it fits your needs.
Power and Performance
Wattage is important. Higher wattage means faster cooking. For microwaves, 900-1200 watts is usually good. For air fryers, look for at least 1500 watts. This helps food get nice and crispy.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
A good combo should be simple to operate. Look for clear control panels. Digital displays are helpful. Cleaning should be easy too. Removable racks and non-stick interiors make cleanup a breeze. Some models even have self-cleaning functions.
Smart Features and Presets
Many combos have pre-programmed settings. These take the guesswork out of cooking. You can select “fries” or “chicken” and the machine does the rest. Some high-end models connect to Wi-Fi and have apps for even more control.
Important Materials
The materials used affect durability and safety.
- Stainless Steel Interior: This is a popular choice. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean. It also heats evenly.
- Glass Turntable: Most microwaves have a glass turntable. This helps food cook evenly. Make sure it’s sturdy.
- Non-Stick Coatings: For air fryer baskets and trays, non-stick coatings are a must. This prevents food from sticking. It also makes cleaning much easier.
- Durable Exterior: The outside of the appliance should be made of sturdy plastic or stainless steel. This protects the inner workings.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a combo better or worse.
Good Airflow Design (Improves Quality)
For air frying, good airflow is crucial. Look for models with efficient fans and vents. This circulates hot air around the food. It makes everything crispy. Poor airflow means soggy food.
Even Heating (Improves Quality)
A good combo heats food evenly. This applies to both microwave and air fryer functions. Check reviews to see if users report hot spots or cold spots.
Build Quality (Improves Quality)
Solid construction matters. A wobbly door or flimsy buttons can be annoying. Well-built appliances last longer.
Noise Level (Reduces Quality if High)
Some air fryers can be loud. If you’re sensitive to noise, check reviews for noise levels.
Limited Functions (Reduces Quality)
If a combo only does a few things, it might not be worth the space. The best ones offer a wide range of cooking options.
User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use this gadget?
- Quick Lunches: Reheat leftovers in minutes with the microwave. Then, use the air fryer to make them crispy again.
- Weeknight Dinners: Cook a whole meal in one appliance. Roast chicken and vegetables, or bake a small pizza.
- Snack Time: Make perfect French fries, chicken nuggets, or onion rings. The air fryer gives them that satisfying crunch.
- Small Kitchens: Save counter space by replacing multiple appliances with one.
- Busy People: Save time with faster cooking and easy cleanup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use metal in a microwave air fryer combo?
A: Generally, you should avoid using metal in the microwave function. Metal can cause sparks and damage the appliance. Some air fryer functions might allow specific metal racks, but always check your user manual.
Q: How do I clean my microwave air fryer combo?
A: Always unplug the appliance before cleaning. Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth and mild soap. Removable racks and trays can often be washed in the dishwasher or by hand. Check your manual for specific instructions.
Q: Is an air fryer function in a combo as good as a standalone air fryer?
A: It can be very good, but sometimes a standalone air fryer has more powerful fans for better crisping. However, modern combos are very capable.
Q: What is the difference between convection and air fry?
A: Convection uses a fan to circulate hot air for even baking. Air fry is a type of convection cooking that uses very high heat and rapid air circulation to make food crispy, similar to deep frying.
Q: How long does food take to cook in a microwave air fryer combo?
A: Cooking times vary greatly depending on the food, the function used (microwave or air fry), and the power of the appliance. Microwaving is fast, while air frying can take a bit longer than a traditional oven but cooks faster than many stovetop methods.
Q: Can I microwave and air fry at the same time?
A: Most models do not allow you to use both functions simultaneously. You typically choose one cooking mode at a time.
Q: What kind of accessories come with these combos?
A: Common accessories include a baking/roasting rack, a crisper plate, and sometimes a drip tray. Some might include a rotisserie spit.
Q: Are microwave air fryer combos energy efficient?
A: They can be more energy efficient than using a large oven for small meals. The microwave function is very efficient for reheating. The air fryer uses less energy than deep frying.
Q: What is the typical lifespan of a microwave air fryer combo?
A: With proper care and maintenance, these appliances can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years. Regular cleaning and avoiding misuse will help extend its life.
Q: Is it worth buying a microwave air fryer combo?
A: Yes, if you want to save space, cook a wider variety of foods, and enjoy healthier, crispy meals. They are very versatile for busy households.
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 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!