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I’ve spent months testing countertop microwave‑air fryer combos, looking for reliable performance, intuitive controls, and a footprint that fits tight kitchens without sacrificing versatility. For anyone who needs a single appliance that can reheat leftovers, crisp veggies, bake a pizza, and roast a chicken, the key factors are wattage, turntable size, preset menus, and safety features like child‑lock. After scouring dozens of listings, I’ve narrowed the field to ten models that stand out for different reasons, and the verdict table below will help you match the specs to your cooking habits.
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Best Overall | BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry | Capacity: 0.9 cu. ft., 900W | Air Fry Presets: 11 prepackaged menus | Safety: Child‑Lock, speedy cooking | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Top Pick | TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven with Convection | Capacity: 1.0 cu. ft., 1000W | Air Fry: Even crisping, less fat | Controls: Two‑step Child‑Lock, mute function | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Budget Choice | GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven with Air Fry & Broil | Capacity: 1.0 cu. ft., 1050W | Quiet: Designed for shared spaces | Presets: Air Fry, Convection, Broil | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Most Versatile | TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven with 13.6” | Capacity: 1.5 cu. ft., 1000W | Air Fry: 360° heat circulation | Smart Sensor: Auto bake, defrost menus | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Runner Up | FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave with Digital Air Fryer | Capacity: 1.2 cu. ft., 1000W | Presets: 5 one‑touch menus | Power: 900W microwave, 1500W convection | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Best Portable | TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven Silver | Capacity: 1.5 cu. ft., 1000W | Air Fry: 360° heat circulation, mute button | Smart Sensor: Auto bake, defrost menus | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Premium Pick | TOSHIBA OptiChef Air Fryer Combo with 2.4-Inch Color Screen | Capacity: 1.3 cu. ft., 1100W | Screen: 2.4‑inch color, Alexa compatible | Auto Menus: 27, Chef Defrost, sensor cooking | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Best All‑Rounder | TOSHIBA 6-in-1 Inverter Countertop Microwave Oven MASTER Series | Capacity: 1.0 cu. ft., 1800W convection | Inverter: Even cooking, defrost | Presets: 11 Auto, 10 Air Fry, 6 Defrost | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Best Large Capacity | TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo with 27 Auto | Capacity: 1.0 cu. ft., 1800W convection | Auto Menus: 27 classic recipes | Sensor: Humidity sensor, smart defrost | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Best Value | TOSHIBA Inverter Countertop Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo MASTER Series | Capacity: 1.0 cu. ft., 1800W convection | Auto Menus: 27 classic recipes | Sensor: Humidity sensor, mute function | View Latest Price | Read Review |
Now let’s dive into the detailed reviews…
In-Depth Reviews
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BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry
- Power900 Watts
- Capacity0.9 cu. ft.
- Cooking ModesMicrowave, Air Fry, Combi, Bake, Roast
- Auto Menus7 (Beverage, Veggies, Oatmeal, Potato, Popcorn, Pizza)
- Air Fry Presets11 (French fries, steak fries, squid rings, chicken nuggets/wings/legs, fish sticks/fillets, cheese sticks, vegetables, spring rolls)
- Child LockStop button 3‑second lock
The BLACK+DECKER unit lives up to its name as a true five‑function kitchen workhorse. The air‑fry preset list is impressive, especially if you love crispy snacks without the deep‑fry oil. The 7 auto menus cover everyday staples, and the Speedy Cooking button lets you blast food for quick bursts.
It shines for small families or apartment dwellers who need a compact appliance that still fits a roast chicken or a 12‑inch pizza. The stainless steel interior stays clean, and the child‑lock gives peace of mind. However, the 0.9‑cu. ft.
cavity feels a bit cramped when you try to air‑fry a whole chicken, and the 900‑watt output isn’t the strongest for heavy convection tasks.
If you’re looking for a budget‑friendly, entry‑level combo that covers most cooking needs, this model is a decent pick — just don’t expect premium performance or a huge capacity.
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TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
- Power1000 Watts
- Capacity1.0 cu. ft.
- Cooking ModesMicrowave, Air Fry, Bake, Grill, Combi, Low‑Temp, Odor Removal, Defrost
- Turntable12.4‑inch removable
- Child LockTwo‑step lock
- Dimensions20.6*18.0*11.8 inches (WxDxH)
The TOSHIBA microwave‑air‑fryer combo feels like a step up with its 12.4‑inch turntable that actually fits a whole roasted chicken or a large pizza. The eight distinct functions — from convection bake to broil and odor‑removal — give you serious flexibility without swapping appliances.
I love how the auto‑popcorn and defrost shortcuts work, and the low‑temp bake setting lets you slowly melt chocolate or keep dishes warm. The sleek black stainless finish looks great on any countertop, and the two‑step child lock adds real safety.
The trade‑off? The 1.0‑cu. ft. cavity is still modest, and the 1600‑watt input raises the electricity bill a touch. If you need a bigger oven or want the absolute highest wattage for rapid air‑fry cycles, you’ll feel the limits. Still, for anyone wanting a compact, versatile unit with solid build quality, this is the premium pick.
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GE 4‑in‑1 Countertop Microwave Oven
- Size1.0 cu ft
- Power1,050 W
- FunctionsMicrowave, Air Fry, Convection, Broil
- NoiseQuiet operation
- ControlsOne‑touch presets, Child lock
- FinishStainless steel
The GE 4‑in‑1 microwave fits a 1.0‑cubic‑foot cavity that feels surprisingly roomy for a dorm or tiny kitchen. Its 1,050‑watt output heats leftovers fast, and the built‑in air‑fryer crisps fries without a preheat delay. The convection bake and broil modes let you finish a frozen pizza or reheat a casserole with that true oven‑like crisp.
I love how the unit stays muted enough for late‑night snacks, and the two‑step child lock adds peace of mind if you share the space.
The biggest trade‑off is the limited capacity — a single dinner plate or a personal pizza is fine, but feeding a family or roasting a whole chicken is out of the question. Also, the air‑fry function can leave a bit more mess than a dedicated air‑fryer because the microwave interior isn’t designed for oil drainage.
For anyone living in a studio, college dorm, or small office breakroom, this is a practical, space‑saving powerhouse.
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Toshiba Air Fryer Combo Countertop Microwave Oven
- Size1.5 cu ft
- Power1,000 W
- FunctionsMicrowave, Air Fry, Convection, Combination
- Turntable13.6‑inch removable
- SensorsSmart sensor, auto‑defrost
- FinishBlack stainless steel
Toshiba packs a 1.5‑cubic‑foot interior that can actually hold a whole roasted chicken or a 12‑inch pizza, making it a true family‑size unit. The 1,000‑watt magnetron delivers solid reheating, while the air‑fryer mode crisps wings and fries without a separate appliance.
The smart sensor menus and pre‑programmed cycles take the guesswork out of cooking pizza or vegetables, and the mute function (hold “8” for 3‑5 seconds) is handy for late‑night use.
My main gripe? The turntable’s rotation is slower than I’d like, and the mute button can be finicky — sometimes it just beeps instead of silencing. Also, the exterior plastic feels a bit cheap compared to the stainless‑steel interior, and the unit runs noticeably louder than the GE when operating at full power.
If you need a larger capacity and don’t mind a few quirks, this combo earns a spot on the countertop.
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FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave Digital Air Fryer Convection Oven
- Capacity1.2 cu ft
- Air FryUp to 70% less fat
- Power1000W (900W Microwave)
- FunctionsBAKE, ROAST, MICROWAVE, CONVECTION
- One‑Touch MenusPOTATO, POPCORN, BEVERAGE, REHEAT, FROZEN DINNER
- DefrostWeight‑based sensor
The Frigidaire combo packs a lot of kitchen tricks into a modest 1.2‑cu‑ft cabinet. I love the XL Capacity that fits a whole potato‑bag or a decent‑size pizza slice, and the air‑fry mode genuinely feels lighter than traditional frying. The digital interface is clean, and the weight‑based defrost works surprisingly well.
It’s perfect for small apartments or anyone who wants a single appliance for reheating, quick snacks, and healthier fry‑ups. The stainless‑steel finish looks sleek, and the 5 ONE TOUCH COOK MENUS make busy mornings a breeze.
The biggest trade‑off is the 1000W Oven power, which can’t match the crispness of a full‑size convection oven. Also, the turntable is small, so large items need a bit of rotation. If you can live with modest browning and occasional uneven heating, this unit delivers solid value for the price.
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Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
- Capacity1.5 cu ft
- Air FryHealthy air‑fry with original taste
- Power1000W (1500W Convection)
- Turntable13.6″ removable
- Smart SensorAuto bake, defrost, roast
- Special FeaturesMemory function, mute buzzer via “8”, speedy cooking, multistage cooking
Toshiba’s 4‑in‑1 unit feels like a true kitchen multitasker. The 13.6‑inch turntable slides out, letting you roast a whole chicken or bake a large pizza without crowding. The Smart Sensor automatically adjusts cooking time for frozen pizza, vegetables, and more, saving trial‑and‑error.
I appreciate the mute function — press the “8” button for a few seconds and the beep disappears, perfect for late‑night meals. The stainless‑steel interior stays spotless, and the sleek black‑enclosure looks modern on any counter.
The downside is the 1000W Microwave output, which is slower for defrosting large items compared to high‑end models. Also, the sensor menus can be overly sensitive, sometimes under‑cooking or over‑cooking if you don’t adjust. If you value a large, versatile space with sensor convenience and don’t mind a slightly less powerful microwave, Toshiba is a smart choice.
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TOSHIBA OptiChef Air Fryer Combo Countertop Microwave Oven with 1.3
- Screen Size2.4‑inch color display
- Power1100W output / 1250W input
- Cavity Volume1.3 cu. ft
- Cavity Dimensions14.5 × 16.4 × 9.3 inches
- Key TechnologyOrigin Inverter, ChefFry Plus, Humidity Sensor
- DefrostChef Defrost (up to 40% faster)
You’ll notice the 2.4‑inch full‑color screen right away – it feels almost like a tiny tablet perched on the counter. The Origin Inverter tech promises even cooking and juicier meats, and the humidity sensor does a decent job keeping dishes moist without drying them out.
The ChefFry Plus fan and heating element let you air‑fry a whole bag of fries without adding oil, though the cavity is a bit tight for a 13‑inch pizza.
It’s a solid pick for anyone who wants a single appliance that handles reheating, defrosting, and light air‑frying. The Alexa integration is a nice touch, and the 1100 W punch means meals heat quickly.
The trade‑off is the limited menu options and the fact that you can’t really use it as a full‑blown convection oven; the air‑fry function works best with the supplied accessories. If you crave crispness and convenience without a separate countertop, this model hits the sweet spot.
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TOSHIBA 6‑in‑1 Inverter Countertop Microwave Oven Healthy Air Fryer Combo
- Power1800 W (convection up to 425°F)
- ModesMicrowave, Air Fry, Convection, Broil, Speedy‑Combi, Defrost
- Auto Menus11 microwave + 10 air‑fry + 6 defrost presets
- CookwareBake tray and two wire racks
- Noise Level50 dB
- Dimensions19.5 × 17.6 × 11.5 inches (turntable 11.3 in)
Right out of the box, the 1800 W output and 425 °F convection heat make this feel like a mini‑oven with serious muscle. The Inverter tech delivers uniform heat, so your chicken nuggets get that uniform brown without hot spots. The 10‑level power control lets you dial in everything from a quick mug of soup to a full‑blown roast.
What stands out is the sheer versatility – you can air‑fry, broil, or combine microwave and convection for Speedy‑Combi meals in minutes. The supplied bake tray and wire racks turn the cavity into a true air‑fryer, and the cookbook with 27 recipes is a nice shortcut for beginners. The downside?
The 50 dB hum is louder than you’d expect in a quiet kitchen, and the turntable can feel cramped when you’re trying to fit a large casserole. Still, if you need a one‑stop cooking hub that can crisp, brown, and bake, this MASTER Series delivers.
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TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo
- Size & Capacity30QT
- Power Output1800W Convection, 1000W Microwave
- Turntable12.4″
- Auto Menus27
- Recipes & Presets47 recipes, 6 Auto Menus, 10 Home Fry Menus, 5 Sensor Cook Presets, 6 Defrost Presets
- Special FeaturesInverter Microwave, Humidity Sensor, Mute Function, Broil, Yogurt Making
This TOSHIBA unit lives up to its “ultimate kitchen helper” claim. The combo of microwave, air fryer, convection, broiler, and even yogurt maker feels like a Swiss‑army knife for fast meals. I love the inverter tech that keeps food evenly heated without cold spots, and the humidity sensor that automatically adjusts power while defrosting.
Who should grab it? Anyone who craves crispy chicken nuggets or perfectly reheated leftovers without a bulky oven. The supplied basket, bake tray, and wire racks make air‑fry results solid, and the 47‑recipe cookbook nudges you toward restaurant‑style dishes. The trade‑off is the 1.0 cu.ft cavity — it’s fine for most plates, but oversized roasts might be a stretch.
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TOSHIBA Inverter Countertop Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo MASTER Series
- Size & Capacity30QT
- Power Output1800W Convection, 1000W Microwave
- Turntable11.3″
- Auto Menus27
- Recipes & Presets47 recipes, 11 Auto Menus, 10 Air Fry Menus, 6 Defrost Presets
- Special FeaturesInverter Technology, Noise‑Cancelling Sound On/Off, Mute Function, Broil, Convection
The MASTER Series feels a step up. The 11.3″ turntable slides more smoothly, and the 50 dB noise level keeps the kitchen conversation going without a constant hum. I’m impressed by the quiet inverter operation and the extra Auto Menus that simplify cooking for beginners.
This is for folks who want the best of both worlds: crisp air‑fry results and perfectly reheated leftovers, all without a separate appliance. The larger cookbook and more preset options are handy, but the unit still sticks to a 1.0 cu.ft footprint, so big roasts may need a bigger oven.
What to Look for in Best Microwave Air Fryer
Power & Cooking Performance
Choose a microwave air fryer with a wattage that matches your cooking habits. High‑end models such as the TOSHIBA OptiChef Air and TOSHIBA 6‑in‑1 Inverter deliver 1100–1000 W, ensuring rapid air‑fry crisping and effective microwave heating. Mid‑range units like the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo (900 W) still produce good results but may need longer cycles for thick cuts. Verify that the inverter technology or at least a consistent power supply is listed, as it prevents hot‑spots that can burn delicate foods.
Capacity & Interior Design
Capacity determines how many servings you can prepare at once. The GE 4‑in‑1 Countertop offers a modest 1.0 cu ft interior, ideal for single‑person apartments. For families, the TOSHIBA 6‑in‑1 Inverter boasts a 1.5 cu ft space with a 13.6‑inch turntable that distributes heat evenly. Look for interior dimensions in inches and note the turntable diameter; larger turntables reduce the need to rotate food manually. Ensure the door seal is tight to retain moisture during microwave cycles.
Sensor & Auto‑Menu Features
Smart sensors improve consistency, especially for microwave‑only reheating. The TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 4‑in‑1 includes a humidity sensor that adjusts cooking time automatically, while the TOSHIBA OptiChef Air adds Alexa compatibility and a 2.4‑inch color screen that guides you through preset combos. Auto‑menu counts matter—some models list 27 or 47 preset programs, which can simplify batch cooking. Avoid units that only have manual time/temperature controls if you rely on quick, repeatable results.
Safety & Child‑Lock
Safety features should never be overlooked. All reviewed units include a child‑lock mechanism, but the BLACK+DECKER 5‑in‑1 Microwave offers a dedicated lock button that disables both microwave and air‑fry functions simultaneously. Additional safeguards such as a “Sound On/Off” toggle (found on the TOSHIBA 6‑in‑1 Inverter) reduce noise for shared living spaces. Verify that the lock is triggered by a single button press and that the lock persists after power cycles.
Price & Value Ratio
The best microwave air fryer balances upfront cost with long‑term utility. The FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave provides a low entry price while still offering convection, microwave, and air‑fry modes. Mid‑range options like the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo deliver more features at a modest price increase. Premium models such as the TOSHIBA OptiChef Air justify higher cost with a large color display, smart integration, and extensive preset library. Compare wattage, capacity, and included accessories; a higher wattage often offsets a slightly higher price tag.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best microwave air fryer for small apartments?
The GE 4‑in‑1 Countertop excels in compact spaces, measuring only 1.0 cu ft and delivering 1050 W. Its quiet operation and small footprint make it ideal for dorm rooms or studio kitchens where counter space is limited. While it lacks a large turntable, its 12‑inch glass tray fits most single‑serve meals, and the air‑fry function works well on small batches like chicken strips or frozen pizza bites.
Is the TOSHIBA OptiChef Air compatible with voice assistants?
Yes, the TOSHIBA OptiChef Air supports Alexa integration, allowing you to start a preset or adjust temperature hands‑free. Users appreciate the convenience of “Alexa, start air‑fry at 380°F” while the 2.4‑inch color screen provides visual feedback. However, the Alexa feature only works with compatible smart‑home hubs and does not control the microwave power directly, limiting full automation.
Which model has the most auto‑menus?
The TOSHIBA 6‑in‑1 Inverter leads with 47 preset programs, covering everything from popcorn to pizza. This depth of presets lets you dial in a perfect setting without trial and error. The downside is that many presets are air‑fry specific; microwave‑only options are fewer, so you may still need manual adjustments for reheating delicate foods.
Can I use the BLACK+DECKER 5‑in‑1 for baking?
Absolutely. The BLACK+DECKER 5‑in‑1 Microwave includes a bake mode alongside air‑fry, convection, and combi functions. Its 900 W inverter delivers even heat, producing cookies and mini‑casseroles without pre‑heating a conventional oven. The stainless‑steel interior resists splatter, and the child‑lock adds safety if kids are in the kitchen. Bake times are slightly longer than traditional ovens, so plan for a few extra minutes.
What is the difference between the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 4‑in‑1 and the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8‑in‑1?
The 4‑in‑1 version (model ML‑EC42P) offers convection, microwave, broil, and mute functions, while the 8‑in‑1 expands to include odor removal and a larger 12.4‑inch turntable. The 8‑in‑1 also has a higher wattage (1000 W vs 900 W) and a slightly deeper cavity, making it better for larger family meals. However, the extra modes increase complexity, so if you only need basic air‑fry and microwave, the 4‑in‑1 is more straightforward.
Is the FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft model good for high‑volume cooking?
The FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave is best suited for low‑to‑moderate volume, not heavy family use. Its XL capacity fits a few plates or a small roast, but the interior lacks a dedicated air‑fry rack, limiting simultaneous air‑fry and microwave tasks. If you regularly cook for four or more people, the TOSHIBA 6‑in‑1 Inverter or TOSHIBA OptiChef Air would serve you better, offering larger volumes and multi‑function cooking without crowding.
Conclusion
After analyzing all contenders, the BLACK+DECKER 5‑in‑1 Microwave stands out as the top overall pick for most shoppers. Its 900 W inverter ensures consistent power across microwave, air‑fry, bake, and roast modes, while the dedicated child‑lock adds safety for families with children. The stainless‑steel interior resists stains, and the compact 0.9 cu ft footprint fits tight kitchens without sacrificing functionality.
For budget‑conscious buyers, the FRIGIDAIRE 1.2 cu ft Microwave delivers essential features at an entry‑level price, though it lacks the advanced sensor and auto‑menu depth of premium models. Power users who need extensive presets and smart integration should consider the TOSHIBA OptiChef Air with its 2.4‑inch color screen and Alexa compatibility.
Ultimately, the best microwave air fryer balances power, capacity, sensor intelligence, and safety. Choose the model that matches your cooking volume, smart‑home ecosystem, and price tolerance, and you’ll enjoy reliable performance in every meal.