Imagine a kitchen gadget that can crisp up your fries, reheat leftovers perfectly, and even cook a whole chicken – all without a greasy mess! Sounds amazing, right? That’s the promise of a microwave air fryer, a clever appliance that’s popping up in more and more kitchens. But with so many models out there, picking the perfect one can feel like navigating a maze. You want to get crispy food, but you also need it to be a good microwave. It’s a tough decision!
If you’re dreaming of faster, healthier, and more delicious meals, you’ve come to the right place. We’re going to break down what makes a microwave air fryer tick. You’ll learn what features really matter, what to look out for, and how to avoid common pitfalls. By the end of this post, you’ll have the confidence to choose a microwave air fryer that will transform your cooking game and make mealtime a breeze.
Our Top 5 Microwave Air Fryer Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave Air Fryer Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.1/10
The TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven is a kitchen powerhouse that does more than just heat your food. This versatile appliance can microwave, air fry, bake, broil, and even has special modes for low-temperature cooking and odor removal. Its sleek black stainless steel design looks great on any countertop, and the 1.0 cubic foot capacity is surprisingly spacious.
What We Like:
- It’s an 8-in-1 machine, so it can do many cooking jobs.
- The healthy air fry feature lets you enjoy fried foods with less fat.
- Its compact size fits well in most kitchens, but the turntable is big enough for a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- The position memory turntable remembers where your food was, so it goes back to the same spot after you check it.
- It has a child lock to keep little ones safe.
- Convenience features like one-touch popcorn and easy knobs make cooking simple.
- The odor removal mode keeps your kitchen smelling fresh.
- The black stainless steel looks very stylish.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions for the two-step child lock might be a bit tricky to follow at first.
- While it’s powerful, the input power is 1600 watts, which is something to consider for your electricity usage.
This TOSHIBA microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering incredible versatility and convenience in one stylish package.
2. BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry
Rating: 8.8/10
Meet the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven, a super handy appliance for your kitchen counter. It does more than just heat up leftovers! This clever machine can microwave, air fry, bake, roast, and even use convection cooking. It’s a true multitasker, ready to tackle almost any meal you can imagine.
What We Like:
- It’s a 5-in-1 cooker: microwave, air fryer, combi (grill/convection), bake, and roast. This means you can cook in many different ways.
- It has 10 cooking levels, including 7 helpful auto menus for things like popcorn and frozen pizza.
- The air fryer has 11 presets for popular foods like chicken wings and French fries, making cooking easy.
- You can cook food quickly with the speedy start button, adding 30-second bursts of power.
- A child-lock feature keeps little ones safe by locking the control panel.
- The stainless steel design looks sleek on any countertop.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity might be a bit small for larger families or big meals.
- While it has many functions, mastering all of them might take a little practice.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven is a versatile addition to any kitchen. It offers a lot of cooking options in one compact unit, making meal prep easier and more fun.
3. Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.8/10
The Toshiba Air Fryer Combo ML-EC42P(SS) is a versatile kitchen appliance that brings together four cooking functions into one sleek unit. This 1.5 cubic foot countertop oven can microwave, air fry, bake with convection, and even combine microwave and convection cooking. It’s designed to make your cooking easier and healthier, offering a way to enjoy crispy, fried foods with less oil.
What We Like:
- It’s a 4-in-1 appliance, meaning you get a microwave, air fryer, convection oven, and combination cooker all in one.
- You can cook healthier fried foods with the air fryer function, enjoying the taste with less fat.
- The convection and microwave combination helps create better textures for baked goods and roasts.
- It has smart sensor menus that help you cook popular foods like frozen pizza and vegetables perfectly.
- The large 1.5 cubic foot capacity and 13.6-inch turntable can fit a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- The stainless steel interior is stylish and easy to clean.
- Convenient features like one-touch popcorn, memory function, and speedy cooking make meal prep faster.
- The mute function lets you turn off the buzzer, which is great for quiet mornings or late-night snacks.
- It offers 1000 watts of microwave power with 10 different power settings.
What Could Be Improved:
- The exterior enclosure is black, while the door frame is stainless steel, which might not match all kitchen decors perfectly.
- While it has many functions, learning to use all of them might take a little time.
This Toshiba Air Fryer Combo is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and healthy cooking options. It’s a smart choice for families looking to simplify their cooking routine.
4. GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.5/10
The GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen helper. It’s a microwave, air fryer, broiler, and convection oven all in one sleek stainless steel package. This appliance is compact, making it ideal for countertops, dorm rooms, or small kitchens. With 1,050 watts of power and a 1.0 cubic foot capacity, it can handle a variety of cooking needs.
What We Like:
- The built-in air fryer lets you cook crispy, healthier versions of your favorite foods quickly.
- Convection mode cooks food evenly and gives it a nice golden-brown finish.
- The broiler mode sears and caramelizes food perfectly, just like a grill.
- Preset controls for common foods like fries and nuggets make cooking simple.
- The two-step child lock feature keeps little hands from accidentally turning it on.
- It’s powerful yet compact, fitting easily into smaller spaces.
- The glass turntable ensures your food cooks evenly all the way through.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the 1.0 cubic foot capacity a bit small for larger meals or multiple dishes.
- While it has many functions, mastering all of them might take a little practice.
This GE microwave oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, especially if you value versatility and space-saving design. It offers a lot of cooking options in one convenient appliance.
5. Uten 8-in-1 Air Fryer Microwave Combo – Large 25.4QT
Rating: 9.3/10
The Uten 8-in-1 Air Fryer Microwave Combo is a game-changer for your kitchen. It’s a powerful appliance that combines two essential cooking tools into one sleek unit. This means you get to enjoy crispy, delicious air-fried foods and quickly reheated meals without taking up tons of counter space. It’s designed to make cooking faster and easier for everyone.
What We Like:
- This appliance is a 2-in-1 powerhouse, acting as both an air fryer and a microwave. It saves you precious counter space.
- It boasts a huge 25.4-quart capacity, perfect for cooking large meals for your family or friends. The square design offers more usable space than round ones.
- You can customize your cooking with precise temperature and time settings. It also comes with 8 helpful presets for easy cooking.
- The 1800W turbo power cooks food much faster than usual. For example, frozen fries get crispy in just 6 minutes.
- Cleaning is a breeze! The stainless steel interior wipes clean easily with a damp cloth.
- A child lock feature adds extra safety by automatically engaging after a period of inactivity.
What Could Be Improved:
- The child lock feature, while a safety benefit, requires a specific two-second press of the [Stop/Clear] button to deactivate, which might be a minor inconvenience for some users.
This Uten combo is an excellent choice for anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine and save space. It delivers speed, capacity, and versatility, making it a valuable addition to any modern kitchen.
Your Guide to Buying a Microwave Air Fryer
Are you looking for a kitchen gadget that can do it all? A microwave air fryer might be your answer! This amazing appliance combines the speed of a microwave with the crispiness of an air fryer. It’s like having two helpers in one. Let’s figure out what makes a good one.
What to Look For: Key Features
When you shop for a microwave air fryer, keep these important features in mind.
1. Size and Capacity
Think about how much food you usually cook. Do you cook for one person or a whole family? Microwave air fryers come in different sizes. A smaller one is good for snacks or single servings. A larger one can cook a whole chicken or a bigger batch of fries.
2. Power (Wattage)
Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most microwaves are between 700 and 1200 watts. For an air fryer, more power helps it get hotter and crispier food quicker. Look for at least 1000 watts for good air frying results.
3. Air Frying Technology
Good air fryers use a strong fan to move hot air around. This makes food crispy. Check if the appliance has a powerful fan and a good design that lets air circulate well. Some models have special racks or baskets for better airflow.
4. Microwave Functions
Of course, it needs to microwave well too! Check for different power levels and pre-set cooking options. Things like defrost and popcorn settings are handy.
5. Easy Cleaning
Nobody likes scrubbing tough messes. Look for models with non-stick coatings inside and dishwasher-safe parts. A smooth interior makes wiping down spills much easier.
6. Controls and Presets
Simple buttons and clear displays make using the appliance a breeze. Pre-set cooking programs for common foods like chicken wings, fries, or pizza can save you time and guesswork.
Materials That Matter
The materials used in your microwave air fryer affect its durability and how well it works.
- Stainless Steel: This is a strong and durable material. It’s often used for the interior and exterior. Stainless steel heats evenly and is easy to clean.
- Plastic: Some parts, like the outer casing or control panels, might be made of high-quality, heat-resistant plastic. Make sure it feels sturdy.
- Non-Stick Coatings: Inside the air fryer basket or tray, a good non-stick coating is a lifesaver. It stops food from sticking and makes cleaning simple.
What Makes a Quality Appliance (and What Doesn’t)**
Good quality means your appliance will last longer and work better.
Factors That Improve Quality:
* **Even Heating:** A good design ensures hot air reaches all parts of the food. This means your fries are crispy all over, not just on top.
* **Strong Fan:** A powerful fan is key for effective air frying. It circulates air quickly.
* **Durable Build:** Sturdy construction means it won’t break easily.
* **Intuitive Controls:** Easy-to-understand buttons and settings make cooking enjoyable.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
* **Uneven Cooking:** If hot air doesn’t move well, some parts of your food might be burnt while others are still soft.
* **Weak Fan:** A slow or weak fan won’t give you that crispy texture.
* **Cheap Materials:** Thin plastic or poorly made parts can break or melt over time.
* **Difficult Cleaning:** If it’s hard to clean, you might avoid using it.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a microwave air fryer is all about making your life easier and your food tastier.
User Experience:
Many people love how fast these appliances cook. You can microwave leftovers quickly and then use the air fryer to make them crispy again. It’s also great for cooking frozen foods. The controls are usually straightforward, making it easy for anyone to use.
Use Cases:
* **Quick Meals:** Heat up yesterday’s pizza and then air fry it for a crispy crust.
* **Snack Time:** Make perfect, crispy chicken wings or French fries in minutes.
* **Healthy Cooking:** Air frying uses less oil than deep frying, so it’s a healthier way to get crispy food.
* **Space Saving:** It’s a great addition to small kitchens because it does the job of two appliances.
* **Baking Small Treats:** Some models can even bake cookies or small cakes.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a microwave air fryer?
A: It’s an appliance that works as both a microwave and an air fryer. You can microwave food to cook it fast or air fry it to make it crispy.
Q: Can I air fry foods that are already cooked?
A: Yes! You can reheat leftovers like pizza or fried chicken and use the air fry function to make them crispy again.
Q: How much space do I need for a microwave air fryer?
A: They come in different sizes. Check the dimensions before you buy to make sure it fits on your counter.
Q: Is air frying healthier than deep frying?
A: Yes, air frying uses much less oil than deep frying, making your food healthier.
Q: Are they hard to clean?
A: Most are designed for easy cleaning. Look for non-stick surfaces and dishwasher-safe parts.
Q: What kind of foods can I cook in it?
A: You can cook many things: chicken, fish, vegetables, fries, snacks, and even bake small items.
Q: Does it cook food as fast as a regular microwave?
A: Microwaving is faster for cooking from raw. Air frying takes a bit longer but gives you crispy results.
Q: Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
A: Yes, most air fryer functions work best when you preheat the appliance for a few minutes.
Q: Can I use my regular microwave-safe dishes in the air fryer part?
A: Usually, yes. But check your manual. Some materials might not be suitable for the high heat of air frying.
Q: What is the main benefit of a microwave air fryer?
A: The main benefit is versatility. It saves space and lets you cook and crisp your food in one appliance.
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!