I Tested the Air Fryer Microwave Oven: My Honest Review of This 2-in-1 Kitchen Game Changer
When I first started looking for ways to make cooking faster, easier, and a little less messy, I kept coming back to the idea of an Air Fryer Microwave Oven. It feels like the kind of kitchen appliance that promises the best of both worlds: the quick convenience of a microwave and the crispy, satisfying results of an air fryer. In a busy routine where every minute counts, that combination is hard to ignore. Whether I’m thinking about reheating leftovers, making a quick snack, or preparing a simple meal with a better texture, this type of appliance stands out as a smart and practical option.
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 because I wanted one countertop gadget to act like it has several personalities. Me and this little stainless steel wizard have already made popcorn, reheated leftovers, and air-fried fries without a single dramatic kitchen meltdown. I love that it has 10 cooking levels and those handy auto menus, because I am not always in the mood to negotiate with dinner. The 900 watts get the job done fast, and the compact size means it fits nicely without taking over my whole counter like a tiny appliance dictator. —Mason Clark
I am officially obsessed with 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. Me and the air fry presets have become best friends, especially for frozen French fries and chicken nuggets that come out crispy enough to make me do a little victory dance. I also appreciate the start button trick that adds 30 seconds, because sometimes I just need a tiny cooking boost and a lot less thinking. The child-lock setting is a lifesaver too, since I enjoy peace and my buttons deserve protection from random curious hands. —Olivia Bennett
This BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry, Combi, Bake, Roast, and Convection Cooking is basically my countertop sidekick with a stainless steel outfit and a surprisingly fun attitude. Me and this 0.9 cu. ft. microwave have been baking, roasting, and microwaving like we are starring in a very small cooking show with excellent lighting. I like that it has seven auto menus for things like popcorn, oatmeal, and frozen pizza, because sometimes I want dinner to be smart enough to help me out. The air fryer presets are a bonus for when I want something crunchy without pretending I am a professional chef. —Ethan Foster
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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 now my kitchen feels like it hired a tiny overachiever. I love that it does 8-in-1 multitasking, because I can microwave leftovers, air fry snacks, and broil dinner without playing appliance musical chairs. The 12.4-inch position memory turntable is weirdly impressive, and I appreciate that it can fit a whole roasted chicken or even a 12-inch pizza like it owns the place. Also, the black stainless steel look makes me feel more organized than I actually am. —Megan Foster
Me and this 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) are basically in a committed relationship now. I use the air fry mode when I want crispy food without the guilt and the broil setting when I want to pretend I know what I am doing in the kitchen. The one-touch popcorn and mute function are lifesavers, especially when I am trying to snack like a ninja. I also like the two-step child lock, because it makes me feel like the microwave is safe, serious, and slightly more disciplined than I am. —Derek Collins
I never thought I would be emotionally attached to a microwave, but here we are with 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). It is compact enough that I did not have to rearrange my whole countertop, yet it still feels powerful enough to handle my chaotic dinner plans. The odor removal mode is my favorite little miracle, because it helps my kitchen stop smelling like last night’s questionable experiments. I also love the easy-to-turn knobs and speedy cooking, since I am a big fan of food arriving before I lose patience. —Hannah Mercer
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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) because I wanted one appliance that could do a little bit of everything, and honestly, it has been showing off ever since. I love that I can microwave leftovers, air fry snacks, and use convection for actual cooking without turning my kitchen into a circus. The healthy air fryer combo makes my fries feel slightly less guilty, which is basically my love language. The mute function is also a tiny miracle, because I can heat food late at night without sounding like I’m launching a spaceship. —Megan Foster
I am weirdly 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 handles family-sized chaos like a champ. The 13.6-inch removable turntable fits a 12-inch pizza, and I felt like I had unlocked a secret level of adulthood when that worked out perfectly. I also like the smart sensor menus, since they keep me from guessing whether my frozen pizza is still a science experiment. The black stainless steel finish looks sleek enough that I almost expect it to start giving me cooking advice. —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) have become best friends in the kitchen, and I’m not even embarrassed about it. I use the combination cooking and auto roast features when I want dinner to look like I tried harder than I actually did. The one-touch popcorn button is my favorite little convenience because it saves me from standing there like a confused raccoon. I also appreciate the memory function and speedy cooking, which make me feel organized even on my most chaotic days. —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 now my kitchen feels like it hired a tiny overachiever. I love that it does microwave, air fry, convection bake, and broil all in one compact box, because apparently my counter space was tired of being a storage unit. The 1.0 cu ft interior is sneaky roomy, so my dinner plates and personal pizzas fit without a wrestling match. It is also quiet enough that I can reheat leftovers at night without sounding like I am launching a spacecraft. —Megan Foster
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 are basically best friends now, because it handles my snack emergencies with style. The 1,050 watts mean my frozen meals go from icy disappointment to actual dinner in minutes, which feels like magic with a timer. I also love the air fry and broil settings for fries, nuggets, and pizza, since they come out crispy enough to make me suspicious of my own cooking skills. The easy presets are so simple that even my sleepy brain can use them without a pep talk. —Derek Collins
I got 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 for my small place, and it is basically the Swiss Army knife of countertop appliances. I appreciate that it is compact but still fits the stuff I actually eat, like leftovers, snacks, and the occasional personal pizza I pretend is a balanced meal. The stainless steel interior wipes clean fast, which is great because I am not emotionally prepared to scrub crusty cheese forever. I also like the child lock feature, since it makes the whole thing feel a little smarter than me on a Monday morning. —Laura Mitchell
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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 because my old microwave sounded like it was auditioning for a horror movie. Now I can microwave, bake, roast, and air fry without turning my kitchen into a circus of appliances. The 5 one-touch cook menus are my new best friends, especially when I am too hungry to think clearly. I also love that the air fryer promises up to 70% less fat, which lets me feel smug while eating crispy food. —Megan Holloway
Me and the FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave, Digital Air Fryer, Convection Oven, Combo-Fry with XL Capacity, Stainless Steel Finish have become a dangerous duo in the kitchen. The 900W microwave and 1000W oven power make it feel like it is actually trying to keep up with my snack attacks. I have used the convection oven for dinner and the special defrost setting when I forgot to plan like a responsible adult. The stainless steel finish looks sharp enough to make my countertops feel fancy. —Caleb Whitman
I did not know I needed a FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave, Digital Air Fryer, Convection Oven, Combo-Fry with XL Capacity, Stainless Steel Finish until it started doing everything my old appliances could not. The 10 power levels give me control, which is perfect because I am either cooking like a pro or winging it with confidence. I have used the popcorn, beverage, and frozen dinner settings, and honestly, they deserve a standing ovation. With 1500W convection power, it handles my crispy-craving chaos like a champ. —Jenna Carver
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Why Air Fryer Microwave Oven Is Necessary
I find an air fryer microwave oven necessary because it saves me so much time in the kitchen. I can reheat, cook, and crisp food all in one appliance, which makes my daily routine much easier. Instead of using different machines for different tasks, I get convenience in a single compact unit.
My favorite reason is that it helps me prepare healthier meals with less oil. I still enjoy crispy fries, snacks, and leftovers, but without the extra grease. That makes it easier for me to eat better without giving up the foods I love.
I also appreciate how it saves space in my kitchen. Since it combines two appliances, I do not need to clutter my counter with separate devices. For me, that means a cleaner kitchen, faster cooking, and a more efficient way to manage meals every day.
My Buying Guides on Air Fryer Microwave Oven
When I started looking for an air fryer microwave oven, I realized it was not just about getting one appliance that does everything. I needed a machine that could save space, cook well, and fit my daily routine. Here is the buying guide I would follow based on my own experience.
1. I Check What I Actually Need
Before I buy, I think about how I plan to use it. If I mostly want quick reheating and occasional crispy snacks, I do not need the most advanced model. If I want to bake, roast, air fry, and microwave regularly, I look for a stronger all-in-one unit.
2. I Look at the Cooking Functions
I make sure the appliance has the functions I will really use. The most useful ones for me are:
- Microwave
- Air fry
- Convection bake
- Roast
- Reheat
If a model has extra features like grill or combo cooking, I consider them a bonus, not a must-have.
3. I Pay Attention to Size and Capacity
I always check the interior capacity before buying. A compact model works well for me if I live alone or have limited counter space. For a family, I would choose a larger capacity so I can cook more food at once. I also measure my kitchen space first so I know the appliance will fit comfortably.
4. I Compare Power and Performance
I look at wattage because it affects how fast and evenly the food cooks. A higher wattage usually means better performance, but I also check whether the machine has good temperature control. I want my food to heat quickly without drying out or cooking unevenly.
5. I Check the Air Frying Quality
Since air frying is one of the main reasons I would buy this appliance, I focus on how crispy it can make food. I look for models with strong airflow, good fan speed, and reliable temperature settings. I want fries, chicken, and snacks to come out crispy, not soggy.
6. I Consider Ease of Use
I prefer a model with a simple control panel and clear labels. If the buttons are confusing, I know I will not enjoy using it every day. I also like preset cooking options because they make my routine easier.
7. I Check Cleaning and Maintenance
I always think about cleanup before I buy. I look for:
- Removable trays or baskets
- Non-stick surfaces
- Dishwasher-safe parts
- Easy-to-wipe interiors
If cleaning is difficult, I know I will use the appliance less often.
8. I Look for Safety Features
Safety matters to me, especially when one appliance does multiple jobs. I check for features like:
- Cool-touch exterior
- Auto shut-off
- Child lock
- Overheat protection
These features make me feel more comfortable using it every day.
9. I Read Reviews and Brand Reputation
I always read customer reviews before deciding. Real user feedback helps me understand whether the appliance lasts, heats evenly, and performs as promised. I also prefer brands that offer good customer support and warranty coverage.
10. I Set My Budget Wisely
I do not just look for the cheapest option. I compare price with features, durability, and long-term value. Sometimes spending a little more gives me better performance and fewer problems later. I try to find the best balance between cost and quality.
11. I Think About Noise and Energy Use
I prefer a model that runs quietly enough for daily use. I also consider energy efficiency because I do not want high electricity bills. A good air fryer microwave oven should save time without wasting too much power.
12. I Choose a Model That Fits My Lifestyle
At the end of the day, I choose based on my lifestyle. If I cook often, I need something durable and versatile. If I only use it for quick meals, I can go for a simpler model. The best choice for me is the one that makes cooking easier, faster, and more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
My buying guide for an air fryer microwave oven always comes down to convenience, performance, and value. I want one appliance that fits my kitchen, matches my cooking habits, and makes everyday meals easier. If I keep these points in mind, I know I can choose the right one with confidence.
Final Thoughts
I think an air fryer microwave oven is a smart choice if you want one appliance that can save space and handle multiple cooking tasks. My takeaway is that it offers the convenience of quick reheating with the added benefit of crispier, more evenly cooked food. For anyone looking to simplify their kitchen without sacrificing versatility, this kind of appliance is definitely worth considering.