Imagine a kitchen gadget that can reheat your leftovers perfectly, crisp up your fries without a drop of oil, and even bake a small cake. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, that dream is becoming a reality for many home cooks with the rise of the combo microwave air fryer.
But with so many models popping up, choosing the right one can feel like navigating a maze. You want all the benefits – speed, convenience, and healthy cooking – but which one actually delivers? We get it. The sheer number of features, brands, and price points can leave you scratching your head, wondering if you’re getting the best bang for your buck.
That’s where we come in! In this post, we’ll break down what makes a combo microwave air fryer so special. We’ll guide you through the key things to look for, explain what those fancy buttons really do, and help you find the perfect appliance to transform your cooking. Get ready to say goodbye to kitchen clutter and hello to delicious, speedy meals!
Our Top 5 Combo Microwave Air Fryer Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Combo Microwave Air Fryer 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 up leftovers. It’s designed to be your go-to appliance for a variety of cooking tasks, from quick meals to healthier fried foods and even baking.
What We Like:
- It’s an 8-in-1 appliance, meaning it can microwave, air fry, bake with convection, broil, and more. This saves you counter space.
- The healthy air fryer function lets you enjoy crispy foods with less oil.
- It has a powerful 1000-watt microwave output, making cooking quick.
- The 12.4-inch turntable is large enough for a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- A handy position memory turntable remembers where your food started.
- The child lock feature adds extra safety for families.
- It looks stylish with its black stainless steel finish.
- Convenience features like one-touch popcorn and a mute function make it user-friendly.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instruction for the two-step child lock might be a bit tricky to follow at first.
- While it has a compact footprint, the 1.0 cu.ft. capacity might be a little small for very large families or big meal prep sessions.
This TOSHIBA microwave offers a lot of versatility in a stylish package. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen with a multi-functional appliance.
2. BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry
Rating: 9.1/10
The BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen helper. It can microwave, air fry, combi cook, bake, and roast. This compact appliance fits easily on your countertop. It has a nice stainless steel finish and 900 watts of power.
What We Like:
- It’s a 5-in-1 appliance, so you can cook in many ways. You can microwave, air fry, use combi (grill/convection), bake, and roast. This covers all your cooking needs.
- It has 10 cooking levels and 900 watts of power for fast cooking.
- There are 7 auto menus for common foods like popcorn and pizza.
- The air fryer has 11 presets for things like fries, chicken, and fish sticks. It’s easy to use.
- You can start cooking at 100% power for 30 seconds with one button press.
- The child-lock feature keeps kids from accidentally starting the microwave.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity might be 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 great addition to any kitchen. It offers many cooking options in one compact unit.
3. Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.0/10
The Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven (ML-EC42P(SS)) is a kitchen powerhouse. It’s more than just a microwave; it’s a versatile appliance that can air fry, bake with convection, and even combine microwave and convection cooking. This means you can make crispy, healthy fried foods with less oil and enjoy perfectly cooked meals. Its large capacity is great for families, and the stylish stainless steel finish looks good on any counter. Plus, it has smart features like sensor cooking and a mute function for quiet operation.
What We Like:
- It’s a 4-in-1 appliance, saving counter space. You get microwave, air fry, convection, and combination cooking.
- You can make healthier fried foods with its air fry feature.
- It cooks food with better texture using a mix of microwave and convection.
- The large 1.5 cu ft capacity and 13.6-inch turntable fit big items like a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza.
- It has helpful features like a mute function, memory function, and speedy cooking.
- The stainless steel interior is easy to clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- The stainless steel finish is only on the door frame; the enclosure is black, which might not match all kitchens.
- Some users might find the initial setup or learning all the functions a bit complex.
This Toshiba oven is a fantastic addition for anyone looking for a multi-functional appliance that offers healthy cooking options and convenience. It simplifies meal preparation and delivers great results for various dishes.
4. GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.0/10
The GE GCST10A1WSS is a versatile 4-in-1 microwave oven that does more than just heat up leftovers. With its 1,050 watts of power and 1.0 cubic feet of space, this stainless steel appliance is a great addition to any kitchen, dorm room, or office. It combines the functions of a microwave, air fryer, broiler, and convection oven into one compact unit, making it a real space-saver and a kitchen essential.
What We Like:
- AIR FRY MODE: You can cook healthier, crispy snacks and meals quickly. It’s like having a separate air fryer built right in!
- CONVECTION MODE: Get perfectly golden-brown results for roasts and baked goods. The included rack helps air flow for even cooking.
- BROIL MODE: Sear and caramelize foods just like you would on a grill. It adds that perfect finishing touch.
- PRESET CONTROLS: Making popcorn or heating up fries is super easy with the preset buttons. They ensure your food is cooked just right.
- COMPACT YET POWERFUL: It’s not too big for your countertop, but it packs a punch with 1,050 watts of power. It fits perfectly in small spaces.
- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This safety feature prevents little ones from accidentally turning it on. You can also turn it off if you don’t need it.
- GLASS TURNTABLE: The turntable spins your food around, so everything heats up evenly. No more cold spots!
What Could Be Improved:
- The user manual could be clearer on how to use all the different modes.
- Some users might wish for a slightly larger capacity for bigger meals.
This GE microwave is a fantastic all-in-one appliance that offers great value. It makes cooking faster and more convenient, especially for those with limited kitchen space.
5. Uten 8-in-1 Air Fryer Microwave Combo – Large 25.4QT
Rating: 8.6/10
Meet the Uten 8-in-1 Air Fryer Microwave Combo, a game-changer for your kitchen! This appliance is designed to simplify your cooking and save you precious counter space. It cleverly combines the power of an air fryer and a microwave into one sleek, black unit. Imagine getting crispy fries and perfectly reheated leftovers without needing two separate machines.
What We Like:
- It’s a 2-in-1 powerhouse, acting as both an air fryer and a microwave. This saves you space.
- Its 25.4-quart capacity is huge, perfect for cooking for your whole family or guests. The square design gives you more room than round ones.
- You can customize your cooking with precise temperature and time settings. It also has 8 helpful presets for easy cooking.
- The 1800W turbo power heats up super fast. It cooks frozen fries in just 6 minutes and leftovers in 90 seconds.
- Cleaning is a breeze! The stainless steel interior wipes clean easily with a paper towel or damp cloth, keeping your food safe and hygienic.
What Could Be Improved:
- The child lock feature automatically activates if the appliance is left inactive for three minutes. You need to press and hold the [Stop/Clear] button for two seconds to unlock it. This can be a bit inconvenient if you need to quickly access the controls.
This Uten combo is a fantastic addition for anyone looking for efficiency and versatility in their kitchen. It makes cooking faster, easier, and more enjoyable.
Your Guide to the Amazing Combo Microwave Air Fryer
Are you tired of a cluttered kitchen counter? Do you dream of crispy fries without the oil or perfectly reheated leftovers? A combo microwave air fryer might be your kitchen’s new best friend! This handy appliance combines two popular cooking methods into one sleek package. Let’s dive in and find the perfect one for you.
Why Choose a Combo Microwave Air Fryer?
These machines are super versatile. You can microwave your food quickly, just like a regular microwave. But then, you can switch to air frying to get that delicious crispy texture. Think golden chicken wings, crunchy vegetables, or even reheating pizza so it’s not soggy. It saves you space and time.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep an eye out for these important features.
1. Capacity
- Size Matters: How much food do you usually cook? Combo units come in different sizes. Smaller ones are good for one or two people. Larger ones work well for families. Think about how much space you have in your kitchen too.
2. Power Levels and Wattage
- Microwave Power: Higher wattage means faster cooking. Look for at least 900-1000 watts for good microwave performance.
- Air Fryer Temperature: Air fryers need high heat to crisp food. Check for a good temperature range, usually up to 400-450°F (200-230°C).
3. Presets and Smart Functions
- Easy Buttons: Many units have pre-programmed settings for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, or chicken. This makes cooking super simple.
- Combination Cooking: The best models let you combine microwave and air fry functions. For example, you can microwave a casserole to cook it through, then air fry the top to make it cheesy and bubbly.
4. Ease of Cleaning
- Non-Stick Interior: A non-stick coating inside makes wiping up spills a breeze.
- Removable Parts: Look for racks or trays that you can easily remove and wash in the sink or dishwasher.
Important Materials
The materials used in your combo unit affect its durability and how well it cooks.
- Stainless Steel Interior: This is a popular choice. It’s durable, easy to clean, and doesn’t absorb odors.
- Ceramic or Enamel Interior: These are also good options. They are generally easy to clean and resist scratches.
- Plastic Exterior: Most units have a plastic exterior. Look for sturdy, good-quality plastic that won’t warp or discolor.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one unit better than another?
- Build Quality: A solid, well-built appliance feels sturdy. It should have smooth-gliding doors and responsive buttons. Cheaper models might feel flimsy.
- Even Cooking: The best units cook food evenly, whether microwaving or air frying. Poorly designed units might have hot spots, leading to unevenly cooked food.
- Noise Level: Some air fryers can be quite noisy. Check reviews to see if a particular model is quieter than others.
User Experience and Use Cases
How will you actually use this appliance?
- Busy Weeknights: Microwave your veggies for 5 minutes, then air fry some chicken tenders for 10 minutes. Dinner is ready in a flash!
- Snack Time: Craving crispy fries or onion rings? Pop them in the air fryer for a healthier, quicker alternative to deep frying.
- Reheating Leftovers: Tired of soggy pizza? Use the air fry function to get that crisp crust back.
- Baking Small Batches: Some units can even bake small cakes or cookies.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)**
Q: What is the main difference between a microwave and an air fryer?
A: A microwave uses electromagnetic waves to heat food from the inside out. An air fryer uses hot air that circulates rapidly to cook food and make it crispy on the outside.
Q: Can I use any microwave-safe dish in my combo unit?
A: For microwaving, yes, use microwave-safe dishes. For air frying, use accessories that are designed for high heat and air circulation, often provided with the unit.
Q: How do I clean my combo microwave air fryer?
A: Always unplug the unit first. Wipe the interior with a damp cloth and mild soap. Removable racks and trays can usually be washed by hand or in the dishwasher.
Q: Is air frying healthier than deep frying?
A: Yes, air frying uses much less oil, making your food lower in fat and calories.
Q: Can I air fry frozen foods?
A: Absolutely! Frozen fries, chicken nuggets, and other frozen snacks crisp up wonderfully in an air fryer.
Q: How long does food take to cook in a combo unit?
A: Cooking times vary greatly depending on the food, quantity, and the specific unit. Microwaving is fast, while air frying takes longer, similar to a conventional oven.
Q: Do I need to preheat an air fryer?
A: Yes, most air fryers recommend preheating for a few minutes to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Q: Can I use the microwave and air fryer at the same time?
A: Some advanced models allow you to combine functions. This means you can cook food faster and then crisp it up.
Q: What if my food is not getting crispy?
A: Make sure the air fryer basket or rack is not overcrowded. Ensure the food is in a single layer. You may also need to increase the temperature or cooking time.
Q: Are combo microwave air fryers worth the money?
A: For many people, the convenience, space-saving design, and versatility make them a great investment for their kitchen.
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 Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!