Note: This article contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support our research and content. Read our full affiliate disclosure here.
If you want faster meal prep and fewer appliances crowding your countertop, an air fryer with microwave can be a practical upgrade. These hybrid units combine rapid hot-air crisping and conventional microwave heating so you can toast, reheat, and brown food from a single machine while freeing shelving space. This guide covers seven shortlisted air fryers with microwave features, chosen for sensible capacity, control layout, and cooking flexibility. We evaluate each option on capacity, cooking modes, and ease of daily use so you can pick the right hybrid for your kitchen. Read on for a concise overview of what matters and how the top picks compare against real cooking needs.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave GCST10A1WSS |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | Commercial Chef 5-in-1 CHMF9GB |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Frigidaire EMW1220AMZ 1.2 cu ft |  |
| Top Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | TOSHIBA Opticheft Series ML-EC42P |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | TOSHIBA OptiChef 1.5 Cu Ft Microwave |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Air Fryer |  |
GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave GCST10A1WSS
| Capacity | 1 cubic feet |
|---|---|
| Power Consumption | 1050 watts |
| Wattage | 1500 watts |
| Number of Programs | 12 |
| Number of Power Levels | 10 |
This GE 4-in-1 countertop microwave is a compact multitasker that replaces several small appliances for kitchens with limited space. It cooks like a standard 1,050-watt microwave for reheating and defrosting, adds air-fry capability with a stainless steel crisper pan for crisping fries and nuggets, and includes convection and broil modes with wire racks for even browning and searing. Controls are touch-based with a set of convenient presets such as Pizza and Popcorn and an Auto Cook feature that adjusts time and power automatically. The unit is designed for countertop use and ships with a glass turntable, crisper pan, and racks to support the different cooking modes. Practical benefits include quieter operation suitable for dorms or offices and the ability to consolidate appliances into one footprint. Limitations are the modest 1.0 cu ft capacity and the need to follow clearance requirements for proper airflow, so larger family-sized dishes or full-sheet pan cooking will be constrained.
Best for: Buyers who want a single compact appliance that handles reheating, quick microwave meals, and occasional air-frying or baking without adding multiple devices to a small kitchen.
Less Ideal for: Large households or users who regularly cook full-size casseroles, sheet-pan meals, or larger roasts should look for a larger-capacity oven or separate oven and air fryer solution.
- Four cooking modes in one unit: microwave, air fry, convection, and broil.
- Includes accessories for each mode: stainless steel crisper pan, tall and short wire racks, and a glass turntable.
- User-friendly touch controls with presets and Auto Cook simplify common tasks.
- Quiet operation makes it suitable for shared spaces like dorms or offices.
- Compact footprint conserves countertop space while offering multiple functions.
- 1.0 cu ft capacity limits how much you can cook at once compared with larger countertop ovens.
- 1050-watt microwave power may be slower than higher-watt models for some tasks.
- Requires recommended clearances for safe airflow, which reduces placement options on crowded counters.
Verdict: If you need a space-saving, multiuse countertop unit that adds air-fry and convection baking to a standard microwave, this GE 4-in-1 is a practical all-in-one choice.
Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1
| Wattage | 1400 watts |
|---|---|
| Microwave Input Power | 1200 watts |
| Convection Input Power | 1400 watts |
| Cooking Programs | Air Fry, Oven, Smart Cook, Smart Defrost, Smart Reheat |
| Capacity | 1.1 cubic feet |
The Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 pairs an inverter microwave with a convection oven and air fry mode to give a lot of cooking flexibility on one countertop. It is typically used for reheating and defrosting with the microwave, air frying frozen snacks to a crisp without extra oil, and baking or roasting using convection or Fast Combi presets that blend microwave, grill and convection heat to speed cooking. Breville's Element iQ steering and power smoothing inverter help deliver even results and avoid overheated edges when defrosting or reheating, while the shortcuts panel and 19 smart presets simplify common tasks. The soft close door and quieter operation are practical touches for a busy kitchen. Trade-offs are its modest 1.1 cu ft capacity, which limits large roasts or multiple dishes at once, and its footprint, which requires clear counter space; it also has many features to learn compared with a simple microwave. For buyers who want oven-like finishes and fast microwave convenience in one box, it is a strong performance-focused choice.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize cooking performance and want one appliance that produces crisp air-fried results and oven-quality baking while also handling microwave tasks quickly.
Less Ideal for: Those who need maximum internal capacity or a minimal, no-frills microwave should consider dedicated larger ovens or a simpler microwave instead.
- Combines air fry, convection oven and inverter microwave in one unit for versatile cooking
- Element iQ and inverter power deliver more even heating and gentler defrosting
- Fast Combi and Cook From Frozen presets speed up cooking while maintaining texture
- Soft close door and quieter operation reduce noise and improve everyday use
- 1.1 cu ft capacity limits cooking for larger families or big roasts
- Countertop footprint is relatively large compared with basic microwaves
- Many presets and controls create a learning curve for users wanting simplicity
Verdict: Choose this if you want a single high-performance countertop appliance that delivers crisp air-fried results and oven-style cooking alongside reliable microwave reheating.
Commercial Chef 5-in-1 CHMF9GB
| Wattage | 900 watts |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 0.9 cubic feet |
| Heating Method | Convection |
| Number of Power Levels | 10 |
This Commercial Chef 5-in-1 countertop unit pairs a 900W microwave with convection and air-fry capability to give small kitchens a lot of cooking flexibility. It is typically used as a space-saving all-in-one for reheating, defrosting, baking, roasting and crisping foods that would normally require separate appliances. The touch LED control panel offers 10 power levels and preset options for popcorn, potato, beverage and frozen dinners, while the included air-fry kit and baking pan sit on the 10.6" turntable for even results. The stainless steel interior is easy to wipe clean and the door includes a two-step child lock for safety. Expect practical benefits like faster crisping than a microwave alone and fewer devices on the countertop, but note the 0.9 cu. ft. capacity limits batch sizes and clearance around the unit is needed for convection airflow and downdraft features. For everyday meal prep and occasional air-frying in tight spaces, it delivers good value and convenience.
Best for: Buyers who want to replace multiple small appliances with one compact, multipurpose countertop unit to simplify meal prep and save space.
Less Ideal for: People who regularly cook large quantities or need a full-size oven replacement should consider a larger countertop or built-in solution.
- Combines microwave, convection and air-fry functions in one compact countertop unit
- Includes air-fry kit and baking pan for immediate use
- Digital touch controls with 10 power levels and useful presets for common foods
- Stainless steel interior that is easy to clean and durable
- Built-in two-step child lock for added safety
- 0.9 cu. ft. capacity is small for larger families or big batches
- Convection/air-fry airflow may require extra clearance and produces more heat than a standard microwave
Verdict: A practical space-saving microwave that adds convection and air-fry capability for versatile, everyday cooking in small kitchens.
Frigidaire EMW1220AMZ 1.2 cu ft
| Capacity | 1.2 cubic feet |
|---|---|
| Wattage (microwave) | 900 watts |
| Cooking programs | Bake, Roast, Microwave, Convection Oven |
| Power levels | 10 |
| Included components | Air Frying Kit, Bake Plate, Microwave |
This Frigidaire countertop combo packs a microwave, convection oven and digital air fryer into a single 1.2 cu ft unit aimed at maximizing kitchen utility in a small footprint. Typical use is replacing a standalone microwave or adding air-fry and convection baking capabilities without extra appliances; the unit includes an air frying kit and bake plate and offers one-touch menus for common tasks like potato, popcorn and reheating. It runs at 900W for microwave tasks with up to 1500W convection and a 1000W power draw listed, and provides 10 power levels plus programmable touch controls and timer functions for precise cooking. The practical benefits are space savings, reduced need for separate devices, and the ability to air-fry with up to 70% less fat than traditional frying. Limitations to consider are the modest internal capacity for larger dishes, the combined-function learning curve for timing different cooking modes, and that built-in performance will not match a full-size oven for large batches.
Best for: Buyers who need multiple cooking functions on a tight budget and limited counter space and want a single appliance that handles microwaving, convection baking and air frying for everyday meals.
Less Ideal for: Those who regularly cook large casseroles or need professional-level oven capacity and throughput should choose a full-size oven instead.
- Combines microwave, convection oven and air fryer in one countertop unit
- Includes air frying kit and bake plate for immediate use
- Ten power levels and programmable touch controls for flexible cooking
- One-touch cook menus simplify common tasks like popcorn and reheating
- 1.2 cu ft capacity limits large dishes and batch cooking
- Combined unit may require trial-and-error to get timings right across modes
Verdict: If you want an affordable countertop appliance that replaces a microwave and adds air-fry and convection baking without buying multiple devices, this Frigidaire combo is a practical budget-friendly choice.
TOSHIBA Opticheft Series ML-EC42P
| Wattage | 1000 watts |
|---|---|
| Power Consumption | 1800 watts |
| Capacity | 0.9 cubic feet |
| Turntable Diameter | 11.3 inches |
| Number of Power Levels | 10 |
The TOSHIBA Opticheft Series ML-EC42P is a 0.9 cu ft countertop microwave that pairs inverter microwave heating with air fry, broil, and convection modes to handle a wide range of cooking tasks. It is typically used as an all-in-one replacement for a microwave plus small oven or air fryer, with 27 auto menus and 47 built-in recipes to simplify meal prep. Notable features include inverter technology for more even defrosting and cooking, a 10-level power control, Speedy Combi mode for faster combined-modes cooking, and an 11.3 inch turntable for better heat distribution. Practical benefits are convenient one-touch programs, a silence option for audible feedback, and included racks that let you air fry or broil without extra accessories. Important limitations are the modest 0.9 cu ft capacity that restricts large dishes, the unit weight and footprint that require a sturdy countertop spot, and a maximum 1000 W microwave output which may be slower than higher-powered microwaves for some tasks.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize a reliable, multifunction countertop appliance that replaces several standalone devices and want predictable, even cooking from inverter technology.
Less Ideal for: Those who need to cook large roasts or sheet-pan meals regularly or who require the highest microwave power for very fast reheating should consider larger ovens or higher-wattage microwaves.
- Multiple cooking modes in one appliance: microwave, air fry, broil, and convection.
- Inverter technology helps deliver more even heating and gentler defrosting than fixed-power microwaves.
- Large 11.3" turntable and 27 auto menus simplify cooking and reheating tasks.
- Includes air fry and broil racks so you can use multifunction modes out of the box.
- Capacity under 1 cubic foot limits size of trays and family-size dishes.
- Relatively heavy and wide footprint needs permanent counter space.
- 1000 W microwave output is adequate but not the fastest for high-volume reheating.
Verdict: Choose this if you want a dependable, space-saving countertop unit that combines inverter microwave performance with built-in air fry and convection cooking.
TOSHIBA OptiChef 1.5 Cu Ft Microwave
| Capacity | 1.5 cubic feet |
|---|---|
| Output Power | 1000 watts |
| Turntable Diameter | 13.6 inches |
| Number of Programs | 7 |
| Wattage | 1000 watts |
The TOSHIBA OptiChef is a multifunction countertop microwave that adds air-fry and convection cooking to standard microwave functions, so it can reheat, roast, bake, and crisp foods without a separate appliance. Typical use is family meal prep: quick microwave reheats and defrosts, sensor-guided preset cooking for common foods, or using the convection and air-fry modes to make roasted chicken, 12-inch pizzas, and crisped vegetables. Notable features include a 1.5 cu ft stainless steel cavity, 13.6-inch position memory turntable, 10 microwave power levels, a mute function, LED cavity light, and several auto menus driven by sensor cooking. The practical benefit is flexibility — you can replace two or three countertop devices with one unit and save counter space while getting reasonably good roast and air-fry results. Important limitations are the 1000W power cap which means some convection/air-fry cycles are slower than full-size ovens, and the unit is relatively heavy and large for tight kitchens. Controls are button- and keypad-based rather than a smartphone app, so advanced remote features are not available.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize reliable real-world performance and want a single, well-featured countertop appliance to handle reheating, baking, roasting, and healthier frying without needing separate devices.
Less Ideal for: If you need the fastest possible convection or professional-level baking performance or want app-based smart controls, consider a full-size oven or a smart-connected microwave instead.
- Combines microwave, convection, and air-fry functions in one countertop unit
- 1.5 cu ft stainless steel cavity and 13.6-inch turntable fit family-size dishes like a whole chicken or 12-inch pizza
- Multiple sensor and preset programs simplify cooking common foods
- Touch keypad with 10 power levels and memory functions for repeatable results
- Includes grill rack and tray so you can air-fry and roast without buying extra accessories
- 1000W output limits speed compared with larger ovens for convection and air-fry tasks
- Large and heavy footprint that may be difficult to fit in small kitchens
Verdict: A versatile countertop microwave that reliably replaces separate microwave, convection, and air-fry appliances for buyers who value proven, multifunction performance.
BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Air Fryer
| Wattage | 900 watts |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 0.9 cubic feet |
| Cooking Program | Air Fry, Bake, Combi (Grill/Convection), Microwave, Roast |
| Number of Power Levels | 10 |
This BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Air Fryer combines a 900W microwave with convection, grill, bake, roast, and an air-fry mode in a compact 0.9 cu ft countertop unit designed for small kitchens and RVs. Typical use is quick reheating and microwave cooking plus occasional air-frying or small-batch baking thanks to the convection/grill combo and included bake tray and grill racks. Notable features include 10 power levels, 7 auto microwave menus, 11 air-fry presets, and a child-lock for safer operation. In practice the air-fry function is convenient for frozen snacks and small portions, and the combi mode helps brown or crisp items that microwaves normally leave soggy. The compact turntable and interior limit how much you can cook at once, so this works best for singles, couples, or small families rather than large batches. Controls are touch and button based and are straightforward, though the small interior means selecting the right rack and tray placement requires some care. For buyers who want a single countertop appliance that handles basic microwave tasks plus occasional air frying and roasting, this is a sensible, space-saving choice.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize a reliable, all-in-one countertop appliance for everyday reheating plus occasional air frying and roasting and who prefer a simple, familiar control layout.
Less Ideal for: Those who need to cook large meals, use oversized dishes, or require very high-power microwave performance for frequent heavy use.
- Five cooking modes in one unit: microwave, air fry, combi (grill/convection), bake, and roast
- Compact 0.9 cu ft footprint fits small kitchens and RV counters
- Multiple presets and 10 power levels simplify common tasks
- Includes bake tray and two grill racks for combi and air-fry flexibility
- Small interior and turntable limit batch size and larger cookware
- 900W output may cook slower than higher-power countertop models
Verdict: A compact, risk‑averse choice that combines microwave convenience with an air-fry and convection grill for small kitchens and occasional crisping tasks.
Choosing the Right Air Fryer with Microwave: Key Factors to Consider
Usable Interior Capacity
Capacity is more than a headline number. You should look at the usable shape of the cavity and whether the air-fry basket or rack reduces usable microwave space. Consider the size of plates, casserole dishes, and baskets you normally use. A unit with a slightly larger stated volume but awkward internal layout can be less useful than a more efficiently shaped interior.
Capacity affects how many servings you can prepare at once and whether you can fit taller items when using microwave mode. If you plan to reheat dinner plates, cook family-size portions, or air-fry larger cuts of meat, prioritize a model with ample usable depth and removable accessories that do not overly intrude on the cavity.
Cooking Mode Flexibility
Hybrid units vary in how they combine microwave heating with convection-style air frying. Check whether the appliance offers independent microwave and air-fry functions as well as programmed combo cycles that switch or overlap modes. The presence of adjustable temperature controls, variable fan speeds, and programmable timers gives you finer control over texture and doneness.
Flexible modes matter because some foods need microwave power to heat through and a hot-air phase to crisp. A unit that supports custom sequences or has reliable presets for common dishes will save time and reduce guesswork.
Control Layout and Presets
Controls determine how repeatable and intuitive your cooking sessions are. Look for clear, labeled buttons or a straightforward dial-and-display combination that makes switching between microwave, air-fry, and combo modes fast. Presets are useful but only when they are sensible and editable; locked presets can lead to inconsistent results across food types.
A good control layout shortens the learning curve and reduces mistakes when shifting between modes. Backlit displays, audible prompts, and keypad durability are also practical considerations because the unit will see frequent daily use.
Cleaning and Removable Parts
Combining frying and microwaving can increase grease and splatter inside the cavity. Removable baskets, racks, and trays that are dishwasher-safe simplify maintenance and reduce long-term residue buildup. Also check whether the interior finish resists staining and whether corners and edges allow easy wiping.
Routine cleaning affects performance and odor retention. A design that minimizes hidden crevices and allows quick disassembly will make ownership less of a chore and extend the effective life of the appliance.
Safety, Venting, and Heat Management
Hybrid operation produces both steam and hot oil aerosols, so thoughtful venting and heat management are essential. Look for models with well-placed vents that direct steam away from cabinets and with safety cutoffs that deactivate heating elements if the unit overheats. Stable feet and cool-touch exterior surfaces reduce burn risks during use.
Good heat management also protects surrounding surfaces and reduces lingering cooking smells. Verify that the design channels exhaust away from user controls and that door seals remain tight after repeated cycles.
How Combo Cooking Changes Meal Prep
Combining microwave speed with air-fry crisping changes how you approach everyday meals. Instead of using a microwave solely for reheating and a separate air fryer for texture, hybrid units let you steam or heat through with microwave energy then finish with hot air to regain crunch. That workflow shrinks cook time and reduces dishes.
Expect workflows like preheating briefly in air-fry mode before applying a quick microwave burst to finish internal temperature, or using microwave power to defrost and then air-frying to restore surface browning. Learning these sequences takes a few tries but can speed common dinners considerably.
- Microwave first, air-fry second for moist interior and crisp exterior
- Air-fry first when you need a crisp base, then microwave for quick finishing
- Use combo presets when available to avoid manual sequencing
Space and Installation Considerations
Hybrid air fryers with microwave capability save countertop and cabinet space by replacing two appliances with one. When planning placement, leave clearance above and at the rear for ventilation as specified in the user guide. Poor ventilation leads to reduced performance and possible heat damage to surrounding surfaces.
Also consider access to electrical outlets and the ability to place the unit at a comfortable height for loading and unloading hot trays. If you plan to tuck the unit under an overhead cabinet, measure clearance for the door swing and exhaust path to avoid heat buildup.
- Allow manufacturer-specified clearance for vents
- Place on a stable, heat-resistant surface
- Ensure convenient access to power without using extension cords
Everyday Maintenance Tips
Wipe the cavity after each use to prevent grease and food buildup. Empty crumbs and wash removable baskets promptly to avoid stubborn stains and odors. For stubborn residues, soak removable parts before hand-washing or use a short dishwasher cycle if the parts are rated dishwasher-safe.
Periodically check the condition of seals around the door and inspect vents for blockages. Routine maintenance keeps combo functions performing predictably and reduces the chance of lingering burnt smells affecting subsequent dishes.
- Wipe spills promptly with a damp cloth
- Soak and clean baskets after frying sessions
- Inspect vents and door seals monthly
Cooking Techniques to Try First
Start with simple recipes that combine microwave heat and air-fry finishing, such as frozen items that benefit from defrost-and-crisp sequences. Practice with one portion sizes to dial in timing and temperature before scaling up to family meals. Keep notes on successful sequences so you can repeat them reliably.
Avoid overloading the basket or cavity during combo cycles. Crowding reduces airflow and leads to uneven browning. When trying a new recipe, reduce quantities slightly to allow room for hot air circulation.
- Defrost then crisp for frozen breaded items
- Microwave to steam vegetables then finish with a short air-fry for texture
- Use lower microwave power with longer air-fry finishing for delicate foods
Noise and Daily Use Expectations
Hybrid units contain fans and magnetron components, so some operational noise is normal. Fan speed during air-fry cycles is the primary noise source and varies across modes. Expect a moderate hum during long air-fry runs and a brief higher-pitched sound when the microwave component is active.
If noise is a concern, test units at higher fan settings where possible. Many users find the noise acceptable given the time savings, but awareness helps set realistic expectations for cooking in open-plan spaces.
- Fan noise increases with air-fry intensity
- Microwave activity adds intermittent higher-frequency sound
- Run a short test cycle to assess noise in your kitchen environment
How We Chose the Best Air Fryer with Microwave
We focused on features that matter most when you combine air-frying and microwave cooking into one appliance. First, usable cavity capacity was a primary filter because hybrid cooking requires enough room for both plated meals and air-fry baskets. Second, we evaluated cooking versatility by checking the range of preset programs, adjustable temperature ranges, and whether users can chain microwave and air-fry functions for one-touch or combo cooking. Third, controls and user interface were weighed for clarity and repeatability, including digital displays, tactile buttons, and program memory. Fourth, ease of cleaning influenced selection through removable baskets, accessible interiors, and dishwasher-safe components. Fifth, we considered safety features and venting design to avoid steam and grease buildup in combined-mode operation. We excluded single-function microwaves and standalone air fryers that do not support true combined cooking modes. We also omitted units that lack basic safety certifications or that have clearly undersized interiors for shared microwave and air-fry use. The final list emphasizes practical blends of capacity, control, cleaning, and multi-mode reliability.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Can I use air-fry and microwave modes at the same time?
Many hybrid units support combo cycles that sequence or overlap microwave and air-fry functions. Whether they run simultaneously or in sequence depends on the product design. Check the unit's control options for a dedicated combo program or the ability to program consecutive steps.
Will combining functions make cleaning harder?
Combining microwave and air-fry cooking can increase splatter, especially when frying fatty foods. Removable, dishwasher-safe baskets and easy-to-wipe interiors mitigate this. Regular wiping after use and prompt washing of accessories keep maintenance manageable.
How do I prevent soggy results when reheating fried foods?
For best texture, use a short microwave burst to heat through, then finish with a few minutes of air-fry to restore crispness. Avoid long microwave-only reheats, which steam surfaces and cause sogginess.
Are there safety concerns unique to combo units?
Combo units produce both steam and hot oil aerosols, so proper venting and stable placement are important. Follow clearance recommendations and allow the unit to vent between heavy frying or steaming cycles to avoid excess heat buildup.
What accessories should I expect or buy separately?
Standard accessories often include an air-fry basket or rack and a removable drip tray. Optional accessories can include multi-level racks, crisper pans, or baking dishes sized to fit the cavity. Verify compatibility before purchasing extras.
Final Verdict
When choosing an air fryer with microwave, prioritize usable interior capacity and how the unit sequences or combines cooking modes. Controls that are intuitive and accessories that are easy to remove for cleaning have outsized impact on everyday convenience. Balance the desire for advanced presets against the ability to manually program sequences you will use regularly. Ultimately, pick a model that fits the portion sizes you cook and offers straightforward controls and maintenance. That approach minimizes frustration and ensures the hybrid unit becomes a time-saving, space-reducing mainstay in your kitchen.