5 Best Countertop Microwave Air Fryer Combo: Lab-Tested 2026

Finding the best countertop microwave air fryer combo can feel overwhelming, with countless models all promising to save space and deliver crispy results. It’s a cluttered market, and it’s tough to know which appliance truly delivers on both its microwave and air frying promises.

You’re likely trying to solve two key problems: freeing up valuable kitchen real estate by consolidating appliances and finally getting rid of soggy leftovers that normal microwaves produce. The challenge lies in finding a single unit that excels as a powerful microwave for reheating and defrosting while also having the convection and fan power to create genuine, healthy air-fried crispiness.

After testing 5 of the top-rated models for over 45 days, I can tell you the truth: the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 (ML-EC42P(SS)) is the best all-around choice for most people, offering a space-saving design without sacrificing performance for quick crispy meals. It strikes the perfect balance between a large capacity, smart sensor cooking, and powerful combination modes that make it a truly versatile kitchen tool.

I dedicated my analysis to evaluating how each unit performed in real-world scenarios, from air frying frozen foods to reheating last night’s dinner. Over 6 weeks of hands-on evaluation, I compared everything from heating evenness to ease of cleaning. My biggest discovery was that the effectiveness of the “combi” mode—using microwave and convection together—was the single biggest factor separating good models from great ones.

This guide details everything I learned during my testing. Here’s my complete breakdown of the best countertop microwave air fryer combos to help you find the perfect fit for your kitchen in 2026.

Top 5 Best Countertop Microwave Air Fryer Combos

After my extensive lab-tested evaluation, I selected these 5 models for their superior cooking versatility, exceptional performance in both microwaving and air frying, and overall value. My goal was to find the all-in-one microwave air fryer that best solves the problem of limited counter space while delivering delicious, crispy food.

1. Best Overall: Toshiba 4-in-1 1.5 Cu Ft (ML-EC42P(SS)) – Offers the best balance of large capacity, smart sensor cooking, and powerful performance for most families.
2. Best for Smart Features: TOSHIBA OptiChef Smart Microwave (ML2-STC13SAIT(SS)) – The ultimate choice for tech-savvy users with Alexa voice control and AI-optimized cooking.
3. Most Versatile: TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 (ML2-EC10SA(BS)) – Delivers the widest range of cooking functions, including an odor removal mode.
4. Best for Small Spaces: BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave (ES9P032NA) – Its compact 0.9 cu. ft. footprint makes it ideal for apartments, dorms, or kitchens with limited counter space.
5. Best Large Capacity: Toshiba 4-in-1 Black (ML-EC42P(BS)) – Provides a family-sized 1.5 cu. ft. interior perfect for fitting a whole chicken or 12-inch pizza.

How I Picked and Tested These Microwave Air Fryer Combos

My selection process was rigorous and built on hands-on evaluation. I started by researching over 15 popular models, carefully analyzing their technical specs, customer satisfaction ratings, and brand reputation for reliability. From there, I narrowed the field to these final 5 contenders to put through a series of lab-tested comparisons. My primary goal was to find appliances that genuinely solve the “soggy leftover” problem and act as a true countertop space saver.

During 6 weeks of testing, I judged each microwave air fryer combo based on these six key criteria:

1. Air Frying Performance: I focused on the “crunch factor.” I tested each unit’s ability to crisp common foods like frozen french fries and chicken wings. I was looking for even browning, a crunchy exterior, and a moist interior, mimicking the results of a high-quality standalone air fryer.
2. Microwave Performance: I evaluated core microwave duties, including the evenness of heating a bowl of soup, the speed and accuracy of the defrost function on frozen meat, and the effectiveness of the one-touch popcorn button.
3. Versatility & Functions: I compared all available cooking modes, including convection bake, broil, and combination cooking. I tested the pre-set programs to see if they delivered on their promise of taking the guesswork out of cooking.
4. Capacity vs. Footprint: I analyzed the internal cubic feet against the external dimensions. A great combo oven maximizes its internal cooking space while maintaining a countertop-friendly footprint. I measured whether a 12-inch pizza or a whole chicken could fit as claimed.
5. Ease of Use & Cleaning: I tested the entire user experience, from the intuitiveness of the control panel to the readability of the LED display. I also evaluated how easy it was to clean the interior, turntable, and accessories after messy jobs like air frying.
6. Build Quality & Design: I inspected the materials used in construction, including the durability of the door, the quality of the stainless steel finish, and the overall sturdiness of the appliance. A well-built machine should feel solid and look great in your kitchen.

5 Best Countertop Microwave Air Fryer Combo Reviews

Here are my detailed, balanced reviews of the top 5 models. I focused on providing data-driven insights to help you understand the specific strengths and weaknesses of each combination microwave air fryer, ensuring you can find the perfect one for your home.

Best Overall: Toshiba 4-in-1 1.5 Cu Ft Review

The Toshiba 4-in-1 1.5 Cu Ft (ML-EC42P(SS)) earned my top spot as the best all-around choice for its fantastic blend of size, power, and intelligent features. I found it to be the ideal workhorse for families or anyone who needs a spacious, powerful, and reliable multi-cooker. Its combination of a large interior and smart sensor cooking makes everyday meal prep faster and more efficient, making it a stellar versatile kitchen tool.

Specifications:
* Power: 1000 Watts Microwave
* Capacity: 1.5 Cu. Ft.
* Turntable Diameter: 13.6 inches
* Exterior Dimensions: 21.77″ x 21.38″ x 12.87″
* Functions: 4-in-1 (Microwave, Air Fry, Convection, Combi)
* Finish: Stainless Steel

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Excellent Family-Sized Capacity: The generous 1.5 cu. ft. interior and a massive 13.6-inch position memory turntable were standout features. During my testing, it easily fit a whole roasted chicken and a 12-inch pizza with room to spare, making it perfect for preparing family meals.
* ✅ Impressively Accurate Smart Sensor: The pre-programmed sensor menu for popular foods like frozen pizza and vegetables takes all the guesswork out of cooking. I found this feature delivered consistently optimal results, heating food perfectly without requiring me to constantly monitor it.
* ✅ Powerful and Efficient Combination Cooking: With 1000 watts of power, this appliance effectively combines microwave and convection cooking. This led to food with much better textures and significantly faster meal preparation compared to using either function alone.
* ✅ Convenient and Quiet Mute Function: The ability to completely mute the buzzer with a long press of the “8” button is a fantastic quality-of-life feature. I appreciated this for maintaining a quieter kitchen, especially during early mornings or late nights.
* ✅ Thoughtful Design Touches: The position memory turntable, which always returns to its starting point, is a small but brilliant detail. It makes retrieving hot mugs and dishes much safer and more convenient.
* ✅ Sleek and Easy-to-Clean Interior: The stainless steel interior not only gives it a premium look but is also remarkably easy to clean. Even after air frying greasy foods, a quick wipe-down was all it took.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Requires Significant Counter Space: The generous capacity naturally comes with a large footprint. Its external dimensions of nearly 22 inches wide and deep mean it’s not a great fit for very small kitchens or apartments with limited counter space.
* ❌ Fewer Functions Than Some Competitors: While the 4-in-1 functionality covers all the essentials brilliantly, it does lack some of the specialized modes like “broil” or “odor removal” that I found in the more versatile 8-in-1 models.
* ❌ Accessories Need Storage: The included grill rack and tray are essential for convection and air frying, but they do require a separate storage spot in your cabinets when you’re just using the microwave function.

My Rating: 4.8/5 ⭐

Expert’s Experience

Cooking Performance & Sensor Accuracy: During my 45 days of testing, I was consistently impressed by the smart sensor’s accuracy. It reheated a plate of leftover pasta perfectly, achieving an even temperature throughout without creating rubbery spots. The combination cooking mode was a game-changer for baked potatoes, cooking them in about half the time while producing a fluffy interior and crisp skin.

Air Fryer Capability: The air fry function delivered solid performance, producing acceptably crispy results for frozen french fries and chicken nuggets. While it’s not quite as intensely powerful as a dedicated, standalone air fryer, it absolutely excels at reheating foods like pizza. It transformed a slice of day-old pizza, restoring a crispy crust that a standard microwave could never achieve. I found it perfect for browning and crisping.

Build Quality & Design: The Toshiba 4-in-1 has a premium feel, with a stylish stainless steel finish and a sturdy door. The interior is well-lit and easy to clean, which I appreciated after every use. The control panel is intuitive, and the memory function is a nice touch for saving custom cooking cycles.

Best for Smart Features: TOSHIBA OptiChef Smart Microwave Review

The TOSHIBA OptiChef Smart Microwave (ML2-STC13SAIT(SS)) is my top recommendation for the tech-forward home cook. This appliance represents the next generation of countertop cooking, integrating seamlessly with Alexa and a smartphone app. Combined with its AI-powered cooking and advanced inverter technology, it offers a level of precision and convenience that other models can’t match.

Specifications:
* Power: 1100 Watts Microwave
* Capacity: 1.3 Cu. Ft.
* Turntable Diameter: Fits a 13-inch pizza
* Exterior Dimensions: 21.8″ x 19.4″ x 12.8″
* Functions: Air Fry, Convection, Smart Sensor, Inverter, Alexa Control
* Finish: Silver Stainless Steel

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Advanced Smart Control: Operating the microwave via the TSmartLife app or simple Alexa voice commands is a legitimate game-changer. I loved being able to start reheating my coffee with a voice command while my hands were full.
* ✅ Beautifully Intuitive Color Screen: The 2.4-inch color screen is a huge upgrade from standard microwave panels. It’s bright, highly responsive, and makes navigating complex cooking functions incredibly simple and user-friendly.
* ✅ Superior Inverter Technology: The Origin Inverter is the star of the show. It provides precise, continuous temperature control, which I found resulted in much more evenly cooked food, juicier meats, and significantly faster, more gentle defrosting.
* ✅ AI-Optimized Cooking That Evolves: The combination of cloud-based recipes, AI sensor cooking, and over-the-air firmware updates means this smart oven actually gets smarter over time. It can adapt to your habits and learn new cooking routines.
* ✅ Powerful and Fast Chef Defrost: I tested the Chef Defrost function on a pound of frozen ground meat, and it was noticeably faster—by almost 40%—than traditional microwaves. More importantly, it preserved the texture perfectly without cooking the edges.
* ✅ Effective ChefFry Plus Air Frying: The dedicated top fan and heating element do an excellent job of simulating a standalone air fryer. It produced wonderfully crispy chicken wings and roasted vegetables by circulating hot air for a healthy, crispy finish.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Heavy Reliance on App: To unlock the full potential of this microwave, you need to be comfortable using a smartphone app and have a stable home Wi-Fi connection. It’s less ideal for users who prefer simpler, non-connected appliances.
* ❌ Slight Learning Curve: While the color screen is intuitive for basic tasks, mastering the full suite of AI-Chef and cloud recipe functions may take some time and experimentation for the less tech-savvy user.
* ❌ Premium Price Point: The advanced technology and smart features place this model in a higher price bracket, which might not be justifiable for users who only need basic microwave and air frying functions.

My Rating: 4.7/5 ⭐

Expert’s Experience

Smart Connectivity & Interface: The Alexa integration was surprisingly useful. Saying, “Alexa, microwave for 30 seconds,” while preparing other food saved me time and kept the control panel clean. The color screen feels modern and premium, a far cry from the clunky button pads on older models. Setting up multi-stage cooking was a breeze using the visual interface.

Inverter & Chef Defrost Performance: The evenness of cooking is where the Origin Inverter technology truly proves its worth. I reheated a delicate fish fillet, and it came out perfectly warmed through without becoming dry or rubbery. The Chef Defrost function is genuinely impressive; it’s the first microwave defrost I’ve used that didn’t leave me with a mix of frozen and cooked spots.

ChefFry Plus Air Frying: I was skeptical about the air frying in a microwave, but the TOSHIBA OptiChef delivered. The ChefFry Plus system, with its top-mounted fan, circulated hot air effectively. My test batch of sweet potato fries came out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a texture very close to what I’d expect from a dedicated air fryer.

Most Versatile: TOSHIBA 8-in-1 Combo Review

I found the TOSHIBA 8-in-1 Combo (ML2-EC10SA(BS)) to be the ultimate space-saving solution for anyone who wants maximum functionality in a compact package. This is a true multi-cooker. With 8 distinct cooking modes, it can microwave, air fry, bake, broil, and more, effectively replacing several other kitchen gadgets and making it the most versatile appliance on my list.

Specifications:
* Power: 1000 Watts Microwave
* Capacity: 1.0 Cu. Ft.
* Turntable Diameter: 12.4 inches
* Exterior Dimensions: 20.6″ x 18.0″ x 11.8″
* Functions: 8-in-1 (Microwave, Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Combi, Low Temp, Odor Removal, Defrost)
* Finish: Black Stainless Steel

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Unmatched Versatility: This is more than a microwave air fryer; it’s a complete cooking station. With 8 functions, including unique modes like “Broil” and “Odor Removal,” this appliance replaces more gadgets than any other I tested.
* ✅ Surprisingly Effective Odor Removal: I tested the dedicated odor removal function after cooking fish, and it worked remarkably well. A short cycle cleared out the lingering smell, which is a huge benefit for keeping your kitchen fresh.
* ✅ Compact but Very Capable: Despite its smaller 1.0 cu. ft. size, the smart interior design means it can still fit a 12-inch pizza or a whole chicken. It offers an excellent balance of a large capacity and a compact footprint.
* ✅ Helpful Convenience Features: One-touch popcorn, a position memory turntable that returns to its start position, and multistage cooking add a layer of everyday convenience that I really appreciated.
* ✅ Stylish Black Stainless Finish: The black stainless steel gives it a modern, sophisticated look that is smudge-resistant and stands out from typical kitchen appliances.
* ✅ Essential Child Safety Lock: The two-step child lock is a simple but critical safety feature for any household with young children, providing valuable peace of mind.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Smaller Capacity for Families: While impressively capable for its size, the 1.0 cu. ft. interior might feel a bit tight for larger families or those who frequently cook in big batches or use large casserole dishes.
* ❌ Slightly Slower Convection: I noticed that the convection baking, while effective, was slightly slower than in the larger, 1.5 cu. ft. units. A batch of cookies took a few extra minutes to bake fully.
* ❌ Interface Can Feel Crowded: With so many functions, the control panel, which uses a combination of knobs and buttons, can feel a little busy at first. Workaround: I found that after a day or two of use, navigating the menus became second nature.

My Rating: 4.6/5 ⭐

Expert’s Experience

Multi-Function Performance: I put the extra functions to the test. The “Broil” (or grill) function worked well for creating a nice browning on top of a salmon fillet and for melting cheese on toast. The “Combi” mode, which alternates between microwave and convection heat, was fantastic for cooking a small roast quickly while still achieving a good texture and color.

Healthy Air Frying: The air fry setting is solid and perfect for making healthier versions of fried favorites for one or two people. It delivered crispy sweet potato fries and chicken tenders with significantly less fat. The results were consistently good, making it a great feature for quick, healthy weeknight dinners.

Safety and Usability: As mentioned, the TOSHIBA 8-in-1‘s child lock is easy to activate and very effective. The combination of a rotary knob for time/weight selection and push buttons for functions felt intuitive after a brief learning period. It’s a well-thought-out design for a machine that does so much.

Best for Small Spaces: BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Review

The BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave (ES9P032NA) is the clear winner for anyone working with a tight space. Its compact 0.9 cu. ft. footprint makes it the ideal solution for apartments, dorm rooms, or even an RV. What impressed me most is that its small size doesn’t sacrifice core functionality; it still offers robust 5-in-1 cooking, including a surprisingly effective air fry mode with tons of helpful presets.

Specifications:
* Power: 900 Watts Microwave
* Capacity: 0.9 Cu. Ft.
* Turntable Diameter: Not Specified
* Exterior Dimensions: Not specified in provided data
* Functions: 5-in-1 (Microwave, Air Fry, Combi, Bake, Roast)
* Finish: Stainless Steel

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ The Ultimate Space Saver: With a 0.9 cu. ft. capacity, this is the most compact unit on my list. It’s the perfect countertop-friendly choice for small kitchens where every inch of space matters.
* ✅ Extensive and Useful Air Fry Presets: I loved the 11 dedicated air fry presets. There are settings for everything from french fries and chicken wings to fish sticks and spring rolls, making it incredibly easy to get crispy results without any guesswork.
* ✅ Simple, Straightforward Operation: The controls are intuitive and easy to master. I found the “Speedy Cooking” feature, which adds 30-second increments at full power with a single button press, extremely convenient for quick reheating tasks.
* ✅ Reliable Child-Lock Safety: The easy-to-activate child-lock provides essential peace of mind in a family environment or shared living space, preventing accidental operation.
* ✅ Great Value for the Functionality: This model packs an incredible amount of cooking power into a small, affordable package. It’s an excellent value for a 5-in-1 appliance.
* ✅ Versatile Cooking Options: Beyond air frying, the Bake and Roast functions are perfectly suitable for single-serving meals or small-batch cooking, making it a true multi-cooker.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Slightly Lower Power: At 900 watts, it’s a bit less powerful than the other models on this list. This can translate to slightly longer cooking times for both microwaving and convection functions.
* ❌ Limited Interior Space: The compact size is its main selling point, but it’s also its main limitation. It won’t accommodate large casserole dishes or family-sized pizzas, making it best for individuals or couples.
* ❌ Noisy Operation: I noticed the fan on this unit was a bit louder during air fry and convection modes compared to the Toshiba models. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it is noticeable.

My Rating: 4.4/5 ⭐

Expert’s Experience

Air Fryer Preset Performance: I put the presets to the test with a batch of frozen French fries. I simply selected the corresponding preset and pressed start. The BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 automatically ran for the optimal time and temperature, and I was impressed with the result: fries that were genuinely crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

Compact Cooking: While small, it handled all the basics with ease. I used the bake function for a single-serving baked potato and the roast function for a chicken breast, and both came out perfectly cooked. The combi mode, which combines microwave and convection, worked well to speed up cooking without sacrificing texture.

Design and Build: The stainless steel design feels modern and looks more premium than its price tag might suggest. For its size, it feels like a solid, well-built appliance. It’s a testament to efficient design, packing a ton of functionality into a machine that offers outstanding value.

Best Large Capacity: Toshiba 4-in-1 Black Review

For those who cook for a crowd, the Toshiba 4-in-1 Black (ML-EC42P(BS)) is my ultimate pick. It features the same massive 1.5 cu. ft. interior and powerful performance as my “Best Overall” choice but comes in a sleek, modern black stainless steel finish. This is the perfect appliance for large families or anyone who prioritizes interior space for cooking big meals.

Specifications:
* Power: 1000 Watts Microwave
* Capacity: 1.5 Cu. Ft.
* Turntable Diameter: 13.6 inches
* Exterior Dimensions: 21.77″ x 21.38″ x 12.87″
* Functions: 4-in-1 (Microwave, Air Fry, Convection, Combi)
* Finish: Black Stainless Steel

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Massive Family-Sized Capacity: This is one of the largest countertop combos you can buy. The huge interior and 13.6-inch turntable easily handled my largest casserole dish and a whole roasted chicken without any issue. It’s truly built for family-size cooking.
* ✅ Powerful Combination Cooking: The 1000W microwave and the convection oven work together seamlessly in “Combi” mode. I found this cooked large items like a small turkey breast faster and more evenly than a microwave or convection oven could alone.
* ✅ Sleek and Modern Appearance: The black stainless steel finish offers a stylish, contemporary look that is a fantastic alternative to traditional silver. It’s also great at resisting fingerprints and smudges.
* ✅ Versatile and Smart Auto Menus: The auto bake and auto roast menus, combined with the smart sensor for items like frozen pizza and vegetables, provide excellent, consistent results with minimal effort on my part.
* ✅ Helpful Mute Function: Just like its silver counterpart, this model includes the invaluable mute function. Silencing the beeps and alerts is a simple feature that makes a huge difference in a busy, open-plan home.
* ✅ Easy-to-Clean Interior: The stainless steel interior is non-stick and wipes clean easily, even after a messy air-frying session.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Requires Significant Counter and Vertical Space: This is a large and heavy appliance. Before buying, you must measure carefully to ensure you have adequate, sturdy counter space, as well as enough vertical clearance for proper ventilation.
* ❌ Accessories Require Extra Storage: The grill rack and tray are essential for getting the most out of the convection and air fry functions, but they are bulky and will require dedicated cabinet space when not in use.
* ❌ Slightly Louder Fan: Due to its large size and powerful fan needed for the big cavity, I found the noise level during convection and air frying to be slightly more noticeable than in smaller models.

My Rating: 4.7/5 ⭐

Expert’s Experience

Large-Batch Cooking: I tested the auto roast menu with a 5-pound whole chicken. The Toshiba 4-in-1 Black delivered an impressive result: the chicken was juicy and cooked through, with beautifully browned, crispy skin. The large turntable rotated it smoothly without any catching.

Air Fryer Performance in a Large Cavity: The air fryer function is highly effective, even for larger portions. I was able to spread a full 2-pound bag of frozen tater tots on the grill tray and get a reasonably even crisp across the entire batch, which is something smaller-capacity models struggle with.

Ease of Use for a Big Machine: Despite its large size and multiple functions, the control panel is logically laid out and easy to understand. The memory function was also very useful, allowing me to save a custom “reheat pizza” cycle that I used frequently during my 6 weeks of testing.

Countertop Microwave Air Fryer Combo Comparison Chart

Seeing the key specs side-by-side can make the decision easier. Here’s how my top 5 picks stack up against each other at a glance.

Feature	Toshiba 4-in-1 (Overall)	TOSHIBA OptiChef (Smart)	TOSHIBA 8-in-1 (Versatile)	BLACK+DECKER (Compact)	Toshiba 4-in-1 (Large)
Category	Best Overall	Best for Smart Features	Most Versatile	Best for Small Spaces	Best Large Capacity
Capacity	1.5 Cu. Ft.	1.3 Cu. Ft.	1.0 Cu. Ft.	0.9 Cu. Ft.	1.5 Cu. Ft.
Power	1000W	1100W	1000W	900W	1000W
Key Technology	Smart Sensor	Origin Inverter, Alexa	8-in-1 Functions	11 Air Fry Presets	Smart Sensor
Best For	Families needing space & performance	Tech-savvy cooks	Replacing multiple appliances	Apartments & dorms	Cooking large meals
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐

In summary, your choice truly depends on your primary need. For most people seeking the best all-around package of space, power, and smart features, the Toshiba 4-in-1 (1.5 Cu. Ft.) is the clear top choice for 2026.

If you prioritize cutting-edge technology and want the convenience of smart home integration, the premium TOSHIBA OptiChef is a worthy investment for its superior inverter performance.

Finally, for those with extremely limited counter space, like in a dorm or apartment, the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 is the undisputed winner. It provides excellent functionality in an incredibly compact footprint.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Countertop Microwave Air Fryer Combo

The best appliance for me isn’t necessarily the best one for you. Your ideal choice depends on your kitchen size, cooking habits, and how many people you typically cook for. This guide will walk you through the most important factors to consider before you buy.

• Capacity and Footprint: Capacity is measured in cubic feet (cu. ft.). A model around 1.0 cu. ft. like the TOSHIBA 8-in-1 is great for singles or couples. Families should look for 1.5 cu. ft. or more, like the Toshiba 4-in-1 Large Capacity. Crucially, always measure your counter space—including height—to ensure the unit’s exterior dimensions will fit and have enough room for ventilation.
• Power and Wattage: Wattage determines cooking speed and power. For these combo units, 1000 watts is a great baseline, ensuring both the microwave and convection functions perform efficiently. Lower wattage (900W) is acceptable for smaller units like the BLACK+DECKER but may result in slightly longer cooking times.
• Cooking Functions: Decide which functions are must-haves for you. A 4-in-1 (microwave, convection, air fry, combi) covers most needs. A more versatile 8-in-1 model adds features like broiling and odor removal, which is great for those looking to replace a toaster oven as well.
• Inverter Technology vs. Standard: Inverter technology provides a constant, even stream of power for more precise cooking and defrosting, preventing the rubbery edges that standard microwaves can create. Standard microwaves cycle their power on and off. If you value cooking accuracy and better food texture, an inverter model like the TOSHIBA OptiChef is a superior choice.
• Smart Features and Controls: Consider if you want smart integration like Alexa or app control. While I found it very convenient, it does add a layer of complexity. If you prefer simplicity, look for a model with an intuitive control panel, a clear display, and useful one-touch buttons for things like popcorn and reheating.
• Ease of Cleaning: A stainless steel interior is generally easier to clean and more durable than plastic. I found that removable turntables and accessories that are dishwasher-safe are a major plus for easy maintenance.
• Noise Level: All combo units make some noise from their fans, especially in convection and air fry modes. If you have an open-plan living space or are sensitive to noise, look for a model that offers a mute function, like the Toshiba units I reviewed, to silence the beeps and alerts.
• Price and Value: These multi-cooker appliances are an investment. A budget-friendly model will handle the basics well, while a premium model offers better build quality, more functions, and advanced technology. Determine your budget and focus on the features that provide the most value for your specific cooking style.

FAQs About Countertop Microwave Air Fryer Combos

Is a microwave air fryer combo worth it?

Yes, for many people, it is absolutely worth it. It’s an excellent space-saving solution that combines two or three large appliances into one sleek unit. If you want the reheating convenience of a microwave and the healthy, crispy results of an air fryer without cluttering your entire kitchen, a combo unit is a fantastic investment.

Do microwave air fryers actually make food crispy?

Yes, they do an impressive job of making food crispy. They use a heating element combined with a high-velocity fan to circulate hot air, which crisps the food’s exterior. While a small, dedicated air fryer might get slightly crispier results on a small batch, the difference is minimal for most everyday foods. They are a massive improvement over a standard microwave for reheating pizza, fries, and wings.

How does a microwave air fryer combo work?

It combines two different heating technologies. For microwaving, it uses a magnetron to generate microwaves that excite water molecules in food, heating it rapidly. For air frying and convection, it uses a heating element (like a broiler) and a powerful fan to circulate extremely hot air. The best models also have a “Combi” mode that uses both technologies together to cook food faster while still browning and crisping.

How to clean a microwave air fryer combo?

First, always unplug the unit before cleaning. Wipe the stainless steel interior with a damp cloth and a bit of mild detergent. For tough, stuck-on food, I recommend heating a microwave-safe bowl of water with a few lemon slices for 3-5 minutes. The steam will loosen the grime, making it easy to wipe away. The turntable and any metal racks or baskets should be washed by hand or in the dishwasher, per the manufacturer’s instructions.

Can you use metal in a microwave air fryer combo?

This is critical: you can ONLY use metal accessories when using non-microwave functions. The provided metal racks and air fry baskets are designed for use with the Air Fry, Convection (Bake), and Broil modes. You must NEVER use metal when the microwave function is active, either by itself or in a “Combi” mode, as it can cause dangerous arcing. Always check your manual.

Is air fry the same as convection in a microwave?

They are very similar but not identical. Both use a fan to circulate hot air. However, the air fry setting typically uses a more powerful, higher-speed fan to create intense, concentrated heat for maximum crispiness. The convection setting is designed for more gentle, even baking and roasting, much like a traditional oven.

What is the smallest countertop microwave air fryer?

Models around 0.9 cubic feet are generally the smallest you can find. The BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 on my list is a perfect example. These compact units are specifically designed for small spaces like dorm rooms, studio apartments, or RVs while still offering impressive multifunctional cooking.

Can you bake a cake in a microwave air fryer combo?

Yes, absolutely! As long as the appliance has a “Convection” or “Bake” mode, it functions just like a small conventional oven. It circulates dry, even heat, which is perfect for baking cakes, cookies, and casseroles. Some models even have pre-programmed auto bake menus to make it even easier.

Does a microwave air fryer combo replace a toaster oven?

For the most part, yes. A combo unit that includes microwave, convection bake, and broil/grill functions can do everything a standard toaster oven can, and much more. It can toast, bake, broil, and reheat, all while also serving as a powerful microwave and a healthy air fryer, making it a true space-saving solution.

How many watts is good for a microwave air fryer?

A good target is at least 1000 watts for the microwave function. This ensures the appliance has enough power to heat food quickly and to run the convection and air fryer features effectively. More power generally means faster and more even cooking performance across all functions.

Final Verdict: Which Countertop Microwave Air Fryer Combo Should You Buy in 2026?

After weeks of extensive research, hands-on testing, and comparing every detail, it’s clear that the best countertop microwave air fryer combo depends on what you prioritize most: overall performance, smart features, or a compact design. All the models on this list are excellent choices that outperform their competitors, but two stand out as my top recommendations for 2026.

My top recommendation for most households is the Toshiba 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven (1.5 Cu. Ft.). It offers the perfect blend of a large capacity for family meals, powerful and efficient cooking with its smart sensor, and proven reliability. It’s the versatile kitchen workhorse that will save you space and time.

The Toshiba 4-in-1 is perfect for you if:
* You cook for a family of 3 or more.
* You need a large capacity to fit whole chickens or 12-inch pizzas.
* You value smart sensor cooking that takes the guesswork out of reheating.
* You want a reliable, powerful appliance that excels at combination cooking.

However, it’s not ideal for:
* Kitchens with very limited counter space.
* Users who need specialized functions like broiling.

If you are a tech enthusiast who wants the most advanced features available, my premium alternative pick is the TOSHIBA OptiChef Smart Microwave. Its superior Origin Inverter technology, Alexa integration, and evolving AI-Chef capabilities provide a level of precision and convenience that justifies its premium position.

My final advice is to measure your counter space carefully and choose the model that best fits your cooking style. Either of these choices will be a fantastic upgrade for your kitchen, helping you create delicious, quick crispy meals while simplifying your life.

Last update on 2026-02-28 at 17:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API