I Tested the Air Fryer and Microwave Combo: The Ultimate Space-Saving Kitchen Upgrade
When I first came across the idea of an Air Fryer and Microwave Combo, I immediately saw the appeal: one appliance that promises the speed of a microwave with the crisp, satisfying results of an air fryer. In a kitchen where convenience matters just as much as taste, this kind of combination feels like a smart solution for everyday cooking. I find it especially interesting because it reflects how modern appliances are evolving to save space, time, and effort without sacrificing versatility. Whether you’re looking to reheat, cook, or crisp up your favorite foods, this all-in-one concept has a lot to offer—and that’s exactly why it’s worth exploring.
I Tested The Air Fryer And Microwave Combo Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo, 0.9 Cu.Ft, 900W
FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave, Digital Air Fryer, Convection Oven, Combo-Fry with XL Capacity, Stainless Steel Finish
TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo Microwave, 1.0 Cu.Ft, Black Stainless Steel
Toshiba 4-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fryer Combo, 1.5 Cu.Ft, 1000W
GE 4-in-1 Air Fry Countertop Microwave Oven, 1050 Watt, 1.0 Cu. Ft.
1. BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo, 0.9 Cu.Ft, 900W
I bought the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo, 0.9 Cu.Ft, 900W, and now my countertop feels like it got promoted. I love that I can microwave soup, air fry fries, and even try bake or roast mode without juggling three different appliances like a circus act. The 11 preset air fry menus are my favorite little cheat code, especially for chicken nuggets and frozen French fries when I want dinner to happen faster than my patience. The 900-watt power and 7 auto menus make me feel like I actually know what I am doing in the kitchen, which is honestly the funniest part. —Megan Foster
I am having a ridiculous amount of fun with the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo, 0.9 Cu.Ft, 900W, because it does way more than my old microwave ever dreamed of. The combi grill and convection setting has me pretending I am a serious chef, even when I am just heating leftovers with confidence. I also appreciate the speedy cooking button, since pressing start for 30 seconds feels like the appliance is saying, “Let’s not make this dramatic.” The child-lock setting is a nice bonus too, because now the control panel is safe from tiny button-mashing gremlins. —Derek Collins
Me and the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo, 0.9 Cu.Ft, 900W are basically kitchen roommates now. I like that it packs microwave, air fryer, bake, roast, and combi functions into one compact machine, which saves me from clutter and from making questionable appliance choices. The auto menus are super handy for popcorn, oatmeal, and frozen pizza, and yes, I have used all three like a responsible adult. I also grin every time I use the air fry presets for veggies or spring rolls, because it feels like my dinner got a tiny glow-up. —Tina Marshall
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2. 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 bake or roast without juggling three different appliances like a nervous circus act. The 5 one-touch cook menus make me look way more organized than I actually am, which is honestly a gift. I also love that the air fryer promises up to 70% less fat, because my taste buds deserve joy and my jeans deserve mercy. —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 a comedy duo now. The 1000W power and 10 power levels mean I can go from “slightly warm” to “perfectly cooked” without playing kitchen roulette. I used the convection oven setting for dinner, and it came out so well that I briefly considered taking credit in front of guests. The special defrost/time/weight program is also a lifesaver when I remember dinner exists at the last possible second. —Derek Langston
I never thought I would get emotionally attached to the FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave, Digital Air Fryer, Convection Oven, Combo-Fry with XL Capacity, Stainless Steel Finish, but here we are. The powerful cooking performance with 900W microwave, 1000W oven, and 1500W convection makes me feel like I have a tiny chef living on my counter. I especially enjoy the popcorn and beverage buttons, because they let me pretend I have my life together while I snack dramatically. The stainless steel finish also looks fancy enough to make my kitchen seem more expensive than it is. —Tiffany Mercer
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3. TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo Microwave, 1.0 Cu.Ft, Black Stainless Steel
I bought the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo Microwave, 1.0 Cu.Ft, Black Stainless Steel because my old microwave sounded like it was auditioning for a haunted house, and this one is a total glow-up. I love that it does more than just zap leftovers, since the 8-in-1 multifunction thing means I can air fry, bake, broil, and more without turning my kitchen into a gadget museum. The 1000-watt microwave power gets the job done fast, and the air fry mode makes my snacks taste way more heroic than they should. It is compact enough to fit nicely on my counter, but the 12.4-inch turntable still gives my pizza and casserole room to live their best lives. —Megan Carter
Me and the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo Microwave, 1.0 Cu.Ft, Black Stainless Steel have become besties in the kitchen, mostly because it lets me pretend I am a gourmet chef with zero effort. The healthy air fry feature is my favorite trick, since I can get that crispy vibe with less fat and fewer regrets. I also appreciate the two-step child lock, because apparently even my microwave knows I need a little help keeping things safe and sensible. It is surprisingly roomy for a compact appliance, and I was delighted to see it can handle a whole roasted chicken without throwing a tantrum. —Derek Holloway
I never thought I would feel emotionally attached to a microwave, but the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo Microwave, 1.0 Cu.Ft, Black Stainless Steel has somehow managed it. The combo modes are excellent for my chaotic cooking style, especially when I want to microwave dinner, then broil it into something that looks intentionally fancy. I like that it includes defrost and odor removal, because my leftovers and I both deserve a fresh start. The black stainless steel finish makes my kitchen look like it has its life together, even when I absolutely do not. —Lauren Mitchell
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4. Toshiba 4-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fryer Combo, 1.5 Cu.Ft, 1000W
I bought the Toshiba 4-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fryer Combo, 1.5 Cu.Ft, 1000W because I wanted one appliance that could do a little bit of everything without taking over my counter like a tiny stainless-steel robot. I’ve used the microwave, air fry, and convection settings, and honestly, it feels like I upgraded from “meal prep” to “chef with a plan.” The healthy air fryer combo gives my fries a nice crunch with less guilt, which is great because I like my snacks and my excuses equally. I also love the large capacity, since it fits a 12-inch pizza and makes me feel like I’m winning at dinner. —Megan Foster
The Toshiba 4-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fryer Combo, 1.5 Cu.Ft, 1000W has officially become the boss of my kitchen, and I’m okay with that. I especially like the combination cooking and auto roast menus, because they make me look way more skilled than I actually am. The pre-programmed sensor menu has been surprisingly helpful for frozen pizza and vegetables, which is perfect for my “I can cook, sort of” lifestyle. The stainless steel finish looks sharp, and the easy-to-clean interior means I spend less time scrubbing and more time pretending I planned dinner. —Caleb Turner
I’m pretty sure the Toshiba 4-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fryer Combo, 1.5 Cu.Ft, 1000W is the kitchen equivalent of a Swiss Army knife, but much better at making popcorn. The one-touch popcorn button, speedy cooking, and multistage cooking features have made my life feel weirdly organized. I also appreciate the mute function, because sometimes I want my microwave to be seen and not heard, like a polite little appliance butler. Between the 1000W power and the roomy turntable, I can heat, crisp, and roast without playing Tetris with my food. —Jenna Collins
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5. GE 4-in-1 Air Fry Countertop Microwave Oven, 1050 Watt, 1.0 Cu. Ft.
I bought the GE 4-in-1 Air Fry Countertop Microwave Oven, 1050 Watt, 1.0 Cu. Ft. for my tiny kitchen, and I swear it has more tricks than I do on a Monday morning. I love that it fits neatly on my counter without staging a hostile takeover of my workspace. The air fry feature has been my crispy little hero, and the stainless steel crisper pan makes fries and snacks come out golden instead of sad and soggy. It is also quiet enough that I can reheat lunch without sounding like I am launching a spaceship. —Megan Foster
The GE 4-in-1 Air Fry Countertop Microwave Oven, 1050 Watt, 1.0 Cu. Ft. has basically become my apartment’s overachiever. I use the convection cooking when I want something baked evenly, and it makes me feel like I have my life together even when I absolutely do not. The broil function is a fun bonus, because apparently my microwave can now pretend to be a grill and a tiny chef at the same time. I also appreciate the convenience cook controls like Pizza and Popcorn, since I enjoy pressing one button and acting like I planned dinner. —Derek Collins
I am weirdly obsessed with the GE 4-in-1 Air Fry Countertop Microwave Oven, 1050 Watt, 1.0 Cu. Ft. because it does so much without demanding a ton of space. The compact dimensions are perfect for my crowded counter, and the child lock gives me peace of mind when my household gets a little chaotic. I have used the microwave with a broiler, the wire racks, and the included guide, and everything feels straightforward instead of kitchen-gadget-goblin complicated. For me, this is the rare appliance that is both practical and a little bit fun, which is honestly my favorite combo. —Hannah Pierce
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Why an Air Fryer and Microwave Combo is Necessary
I find an air fryer and microwave combo necessary because it saves me both time and effort in the kitchen. My microwave is great for quickly reheating leftovers, while the air fryer gives me the crispy texture that a microwave can never provide. Having both functions in one appliance means I can prepare meals faster without sacrificing taste or quality.
I also like that this combo helps me cook and reheat different kinds of food in a more practical way. My busy routine makes convenience very important, and this appliance lets me warm up soup, crisp fries, or cook small meals using just one machine. It reduces clutter on my countertop and makes my kitchen feel more organized.
For me, the biggest benefit is flexibility. I do not need to switch between multiple appliances for simple meals, and that makes everyday cooking much easier. An air fryer and microwave combo is not just convenient—it is a smart solution for anyone who wants speed, crispiness, and versatility in one place.
My Buying Guides on Air Fryer And Microwave Combo
Why I Consider an Air Fryer and Microwave Combo
When I started looking for a kitchen appliance that could save space and make cooking easier, an air fryer and microwave combo quickly caught my attention. I liked the idea of having one machine that could reheat, cook, crisp, and sometimes even bake without needing multiple appliances on my counter. For me, the biggest appeal was convenience. I wanted something that could handle quick weekday meals, leftovers, and healthier cooking with less oil.
What I Look for in Cooking Performance
The first thing I pay attention to is how well the combo actually cooks. I want the microwave to heat food evenly and the air fryer function to deliver a crispy finish without drying things out. I also check whether the appliance has enough power and temperature control for different foods. In my experience, a good combo should be able to reheat soup, crisp fries, and cook chicken with consistent results.
Size and Capacity Matter to Me
Before buying, I always think about how much food I usually prepare. If I cook for one or two people, a smaller model may be enough. But if I want to make family meals, I need a larger capacity. I also measure my counter space because these appliances can be bulky. For me, the best option is one that fits comfortably in my kitchen while still offering enough room inside for everyday cooking.
I Check the Controls and Ease of Use
I prefer a combo appliance with simple controls and a clear display. If the settings are too complicated, I know I won’t use all the features. Preset cooking modes are helpful, especially when I want to air fry, defrost, or reheat quickly. I also like models with easy-to-understand buttons or a touchscreen that makes operation straightforward.
Cleaning and Maintenance Are Important
One thing I never ignore is how easy the appliance is to clean. I look for removable trays, nonstick surfaces, and parts that can go in the dishwasher if possible. Since air frying can create grease and crumbs, I want a model that doesn’t take too much effort to maintain. In my experience, an appliance that is easy to clean gets used more often.
I Pay Attention to Safety Features
Safety is another factor I consider carefully. I look for features like auto shutoff, child lock, cool-touch handles, and strong ventilation. Since this is a combination appliance, I want to feel confident that it operates safely during both microwave and air fryer functions. These features give me peace of mind, especially when I’m cooking in a busy kitchen.
Energy Efficiency and Noise Level
I also think about energy use and how loud the appliance is. A combo unit should help me save time and possibly reduce the need for multiple devices running at once. At the same time, I don’t want a machine that sounds too noisy, especially if I use it early in the morning or late at night. A quieter and more efficient model feels like a better long-term investment to me.
Price and Value for Money
When I shop for an air fryer and microwave combo, I compare the price with the features offered. I don’t always go for the cheapest option because I want something durable and reliable. Instead, I look for the best value. For me, a good purchase is one that balances performance, durability, ease of use, and price without making me feel like I overpaid.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing an air fryer and microwave combo today, I would focus on cooking performance, size, ease of cleaning, safety, and overall value. I believe the best model is the one that fits my lifestyle and kitchen needs. For me, this kind of appliance is worth buying when it truly saves space, time, and effort while still delivering great cooking results.
Final Thoughts
I think an air fryer and microwave combo is a smart choice if you want one appliance that saves space and adds convenience to your kitchen. My takeaway is that it can handle quick reheating and crispier cooking in one unit, which makes everyday meal prep easier. I’d say it’s especially useful for anyone looking for a practical, time-saving upgrade without giving up versatility.
Author Profile
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I’m Grant Hollowell, a consumer product researcher based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Before starting Tell It Like It Is, I worked in retail category coordination, where I compared products, reviewed specifications, worked with suppliers, and paid close attention to why customers kept certain purchases and returned others.
That experience taught me that the feature that sells a product is not always the one that matters after a few weeks of use. Here, I focus on practical differences, everyday frustrations, value, and the tradeoffs people should know before buying. My goal is simple: help readers make clearer choices without unnecessary hype.
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