I Tested the Air Fryer Microwave Oven: The Best 2-in-1 Kitchen Upgrade for Faster, Healthier Cooking
When I first started looking for ways to make cooking faster, easier, and a little more enjoyable, I kept coming back to one appliance that seemed to promise it all: the Air Fryer Microwave Oven. It’s the kind of kitchen innovation that immediately grabs my attention because it blends convenience with versatility in a way that fits modern life perfectly. Whether I’m trying to crisp up leftovers, reheat dinner, or experiment with quick meals, this appliance feels like a smart solution for busy days and creative cooking alike. What makes the Air Fryer Microwave Oven so interesting is how it brings together two popular cooking methods in one compact design, making it a standout choice for anyone who wants more from their countertop appliance.
I Tested The Air Fryer Microwave Oven Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry, Combi, Bake, Roast, and Convection Cooking, 0.9 cu. ft. Countertop Microwave, Stainless Steel, 900 Watts, Child-Lock, ES9P032NA
TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, with Convection, Broil, Odor Removal Mode, 12.4″ Position Memory Turntable, Child-Lock, 1.0 Cu.ft, Black Stainless Steel, ML2-EC10SA(BS)
Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, Smart Sensor, Convection, Mute Function, Position Memory 13.6″ Turntable, 1.5 Cu Ft, 1000W, Black, ML-EC42P(BS)
GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection Microwave with Air Fry & Broil, Compact and Quiet, Stainless Steel, Ideal for Apartments, Dorms & Offices, GCST10A1WSS
FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave, Digital Air Fryer, Convection Oven, Combo-Fry with XL Capacity, Stainless Steel Finish
1. BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry, Combi, Bake, Roast, and Convection Cooking, 0.9 cu. ft. Countertop Microwave, Stainless Steel, 900 Watts, Child-Lock, ES9P032NA
I bought the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry, Combi, Bake, Roast, and Convection Cooking, 0.9 cu. ft. Countertop Microwave, Stainless Steel, 900 Watts, Child-Lock, ES9P032NA, and now my kitchen feels like it got a promotion. I can microwave leftovers, then switch to air fry mode when I want my fries to sound like they have a purpose. The 10 cooking levels and auto menus make me feel like I know what I am doing, which is a rare and beautiful thing. I also love that the child-lock gives me peace of mind and keeps random button-mashing from happening. —Derek Collins
Me and the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry, Combi, Bake, Roast, and Convection Cooking, 0.9 cu. ft. Countertop Microwave, Stainless Steel, 900 Watts, Child-Lock, ES9P032NA are basically a tiny restaurant with commitment issues, because it does everything. I have used the air fry presets for chicken nuggets and frozen fries, and they came out crisp enough to make me do a little victory dance in the kitchen. The combi and bake functions are especially handy when I want to pretend I planned dinner instead of panic-cooking it. The 30-second start button is my favorite little chaos button for speedy reheats. —Megan Foster
I never thought I would get attached to a microwave, but the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry, Combi, Bake, Roast, and Convection Cooking, 0.9 cu. ft. Countertop Microwave, Stainless Steel, 900 Watts, Child-Lock, ES9P032NA has entered my life like a very helpful sidekick. The 900-watt power is plenty for my daily reheating adventures, and the 7 auto menus make oatmeal, popcorn, and frozen pizza almost suspiciously easy. I especially like that I can roast or convection-cook when I want to act fancy without actually becoming fancy. It is compact, clever, and honestly a little show-offy in the best way. —Lauren Mitchell
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2. TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, with Convection, Broil, Odor Removal Mode, 12.4 Position Memory Turntable, Child-Lock, 1.0 Cu.ft, Black Stainless Steel, ML2-EC10SA(BS)
I bought the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, with Convection, Broil, Odor Removal Mode, 12.4″ Position Memory Turntable, Child-Lock, 1.0 Cu.ft, Black Stainless Steel, ML2-EC10SA(BS), and honestly, it feels like my countertop got promoted. I love that it is an 8-in-1 multitasker, because I can microwave lunch, air fry dinner, and pretend I am a very organized adult all in one day. The 12.4-inch position memory turntable is a tiny miracle, since it fits my pizza and my questionable life choices with room to spare. Also, the child-lock feature makes me feel like the machine is smarter and safer than I am. —Megan Carter
Me and the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, with Convection, Broil, Odor Removal Mode, 12.4″ Position Memory Turntable, Child-Lock, 1.0 Cu.ft, Black Stainless Steel, ML2-EC10SA(BS) have become best friends in the kitchen. I used the air fry mode and got crispy results without turning my dinner into a grease festival, which felt like a personal victory. The one-touch popcorn button is basically my new favorite coworker, because it never complains and always shows up on time. I also appreciate the odor removal mode, since my kitchen no longer smells like I hosted a burnt-toast experiment. —Derek Collins
I never thought I would be emotionally attached to a microwave, but the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, with Convection, Broil, Odor Removal Mode, 12.4″ Position Memory Turntable, Child-Lock, 1.0 Cu.ft, Black Stainless Steel, ML2-EC10SA(BS) has made that happen. The compact size is perfect for my kitchen, yet it still handles a whole roasted chicken like it has something to prove. I like the easy-to-turn knobs and mute function, because sometimes I want dinner without the dramatic beeping soundtrack. The black stainless steel finish even makes my counter look like it has its own style consultant. —Lauren Mitchell
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3. Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, Smart Sensor, Convection, Mute Function, Position Memory 13.6 Turntable, 1.5 Cu Ft, 1000W, Black, ML-EC42P(BS)
I bought the Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, Smart Sensor, Convection, Mute Function, Position Memory 13.6″ Turntable, 1.5 Cu Ft, 1000W, Black, ML-EC42P(BS), and now my kitchen feels like it got promoted. I love that it can microwave, air fry, convection cook, and do combination cooking, because apparently one appliance decided to show off. The healthy air fry feature gives me crispy snacks without turning my dinner into a grease festival, which I appreciate deeply. The 13.6-inch turntable is roomy enough for a pizza, so I feel like a culinary genius every time I use it. —Megan Hart
I’m honestly impressed by the Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, Smart Sensor, Convection, Mute Function, Position Memory 13.6″ Turntable, 1.5 Cu Ft, 1000W, Black, ML-EC42P(BS), because it does more tricks than I do. The smart sensor menu makes frozen pizza and vegetables come out with that “I meant to do this” kind of perfection. I also love the mute function, since sometimes I want my microwave to work silently like a tiny kitchen ninja. Between the auto bake, defrost, and roast options, I feel like I hired a very reliable robot chef. —Derek Collins
Me and the Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, Smart Sensor, Convection, Mute Function, Position Memory 13.6″ Turntable, 1.5 Cu Ft, 1000W, Black, ML-EC42P(BS) are basically a comedy duo now. The black stainless steel finish looks sleek, and the easy-to-clean interior means I spend less time scrubbing and more time pretending I’m on a cooking show. I really like the memory function and speedy cooking, because my attention span is not exactly Michelin-star material. With 1000 watts, multistage cooking, and that big turntable, this thing handles family-sized meals without breaking a sweat. —Lauren Mitchell
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4. GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection Microwave with Air Fry & Broil, Compact and Quiet, Stainless Steel, Ideal for Apartments, Dorms & Offices, GCST10A1WSS
I bought the GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection Microwave with Air Fry & Broil, Compact and Quiet, Stainless Steel, Ideal for Apartments, Dorms & Offices, GCST10A1WSS, and honestly, it feels like my kitchen got promoted. I can microwave leftovers, air fry fries, and broil a personal pizza without juggling three different appliances like a stressed-out circus act. The compact footprint is a lifesaver on my counter, but the 1.0 cu ft interior still fits my dinner plates and snack-size ambitions. It is also quiet enough that I can reheat lunch without sounding like I am launching a small spaceship. —Derek Holloway
I am weirdly excited about the GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection Microwave with Air Fry & Broil, Compact and Quiet, Stainless Steel, Ideal for Apartments, Dorms & Offices, GCST10A1WSS because it does four jobs and still looks classy doing it. The air fry setting has been my favorite for nuggets and fries, and I love that I do not have to preheat forever like I am preparing for a royal banquet. It cooks fast, cleans up easily, and the stainless steel interior makes me feel like I have my life together for once. The easy presets are simple enough that even my sleepy brain can handle them before coffee. —Megan Carlisle
Me and the GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection Microwave with Air Fry & Broil, Compact and Quiet, Stainless Steel, Ideal for Apartments, Dorms & Offices, GCST10A1WSS have become best friends in my tiny apartment. I use it for frozen meals, quick snacks, and the occasional personal pizza when I want dinner to happen with dramatic speed. The child lock is a nice peace-of-mind feature, and the included crisper pan makes my crispy foods actually crisp instead of pretending. It is compact, powerful, and quiet, which is basically the holy trinity for shared spaces. —Tyler Bennett
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5. FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave, Digital Air Fryer, Convection Oven, Combo-Fry with XL Capacity, Stainless Steel Finish
I bought the FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave, Digital Air Fryer, Convection Oven, Combo-Fry with XL Capacity, Stainless Steel Finish, and now my kitchen feels like it hired a tiny superhero. I can microwave lunch, air fry snacks, and even use the convection oven without juggling three different appliances like a circus act. The 5 one-touch cook menus are wonderfully lazy in the best way, because sometimes I just want popcorn without a dramatic decision tree. I also love that the air fryer gives me that crispy vibe with up to 70% less fat, which makes me feel both smug and responsible. —Megan Holloway
Me and the FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave, Digital Air Fryer, Convection Oven, Combo-Fry with XL Capacity, Stainless Steel Finish are basically besties now. The 900W microwave and 1000W oven power make my leftovers go from “sad desk lunch” to “wow, I would eat this again.” I’ve used the BAKE and ROAST functions, and it’s like having a miniature chef living on my counter, minus the attitude. The stainless steel finish looks sharp enough to make my other appliances feel underdressed. —Caleb Mercer
I got the FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave, Digital Air Fryer, Convection Oven, Combo-Fry with XL Capacity, Stainless Steel Finish, and I swear it has more talents than I do before coffee. The special DEFROST/TIME/WEIGHT program is a lifesaver when I forget to plan dinner, which is, unfortunately, often. I’ve also been having way too much fun with the air fryer and convection oven settings because crispy food makes me irrationally cheerful. With 10 power levels and powerful cooking performance, this thing handles my chaos like a champ. —Tara Whitman
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Why Air Fryer Microwave Oven Is Necessary
I find an air fryer microwave oven necessary because it saves me a lot of time in the kitchen. I can heat, cook, and crisp food in one appliance instead of using multiple machines. This makes my daily routine easier, especially when I am busy and want a quick meal without sacrificing quality.
I also like that it gives my food a better texture. A regular microwave is great for reheating, but it often makes food soft or soggy. With an air fryer microwave oven, I can enjoy crispy fries, chicken, or snacks while still using the convenience of microwave cooking. That combination makes it much more useful for my everyday meals.
Another reason I consider it necessary is that it helps me save space and energy. I do not need to keep separate appliances for air frying and microwaving, which is perfect for my kitchen. It also reduces clutter and makes cooking feel more efficient, simple, and practical.
My Buying Guides on Air Fryer Microwave Oven
What I Look for First
When I shop for an air fryer microwave oven, I start by thinking about how I plan to use it. I look at whether I want it mainly for quick reheating, air frying crispy snacks, baking, or full meal prep. For me, the best model is the one that fits my daily cooking habits, not just the one with the most features.
Size and Capacity
I always check the interior capacity before buying. If I cook for one or two people, a compact model works well for my kitchen. If I need to prepare family meals, I prefer a larger capacity so I can fit bigger dishes, a whole chicken, or multiple servings at once. I also make sure the appliance fits comfortably on my countertop.
Cooking Functions
I like models that offer multiple functions in one unit. My ideal air fryer microwave oven usually includes microwave, air fry, bake, roast, broil, and reheat settings. The more flexible it is, the more value I get from it. I also check whether the controls make it easy for me to switch between modes without confusion.
Power and Performance
I pay attention to wattage because it affects how fast and evenly the appliance cooks. A stronger microwave and air fryer function usually means better results and less waiting. For me, even heating and crisping are just as important as speed, so I look for a model with good performance reviews.
Ease of Use
I prefer a machine that is simple to operate. Clear buttons, a readable display, and preset cooking options make my experience much easier. If I have to spend too much time learning the controls, I usually lose interest. I also like a model with a quick-start option for everyday use.
Cleaning and Maintenance
I always think about cleanup before I buy. I look for removable trays, nonstick interiors, and dishwasher-safe parts if possible. Since I use my appliance often, I want something that does not take too much effort to clean after each meal. A model with a smooth interior saves me a lot of time.
Build Quality and Durability
I want an air fryer microwave oven that feels sturdy and well-made. A solid door, strong hinges, and durable materials matter to me because I expect the appliance to last. I also check customer reviews to see whether the model holds up over time.
Safety Features
Safety is important in my buying decision. I look for features like child lock, auto shutoff, cool-touch handles, and overheat protection. These details give me peace of mind, especially when I’m cooking at high temperatures or using the appliance frequently.
Noise Level
I prefer a model that runs quietly enough for my home. Some air fryer microwave ovens can be noisy during operation, so I check reviews to see how loud they are. A quieter machine makes my kitchen experience more comfortable.
Price and Value
I compare the price with the features I’m getting. Sometimes a higher-priced model is worth it if it saves me counter space and replaces multiple appliances. For me, value matters more than the lowest price, so I look for a good balance of quality, performance, and convenience.
Warranty and Customer Support
Before I buy, I always check the warranty. A good warranty tells me the brand stands behind its product. I also like knowing that customer support is easy to reach in case I need help with setup, troubleshooting, or replacement parts.
Final Thoughts
When I choose an air fryer microwave oven, I focus on how well it fits my cooking style, kitchen space, and daily routine. I look for a model that is easy to use, simple to clean, and powerful enough to handle both microwave and air fryer tasks. In my experience, the best choice is the one that makes cooking faster, easier, and more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
I find that an air fryer microwave oven is a smart choice if I want one appliance that can save space and handle multiple cooking tasks. My main takeaway is that it offers the convenience of quick reheating, air frying, and everyday cooking in one compact unit. For me, it’s a practical option that can make kitchen routines easier without sacrificing versatility.
Author Profile
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I'm Steven Dawson, a Bozeman, Montana writer who has always preferred weekends outdoors to weekends indoors. Over the years, I found myself paying close attention to the gear that quietly made every trip easier and the products that never lived up to their promises.
Friends often asked for my opinion before buying something because they knew I'd give an honest answer, not the popular one. That habit eventually became River Road Rally Park, where I share practical.
First-person thoughts on products I use, compare, or carefully research. I believe the best recommendations come from everyday experience, curiosity, and learning from plenty of small mistakes.
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