7 Best Microwave Air Fryers of 2026

The Panasonic HomeChef NN-CD87KS is a culinary powerhouse, blending microwave speed with true multi-function versatility in one sleek unit. What sets it apart is its FlashXpress Broiler—a rare feature that delivers actual browning and crisping, not just reheating shadows. Paired with 1000W inverter technology, this oven eliminates hotspots and ensures even cooking, whether you’re reviving leftovers or air frying frozen fries. For users tired of juggling multiple appliances, this is a game-changer, solving the classic microwave dilemma: fast but flavorless.

In real-world testing, the 1.2 cu ft cavity handled a whole rotisserie chicken with room to spare, and the air fry results were impressively crisp—think golden wings and crunchy tater tots, all without preheating. The convection bake reached 425°F reliably, producing moist muffins and evenly roasted vegetables. However, the turntable limits pan size, making larger sheet-style air frying tricky. While the broiler works, it’s not quite as intense as a dedicated toaster oven, so thick cuts of meat benefit from combo cooking (convection + broil) to achieve that sear.

Compared to the Toshiba OptiChef ML2-STC13SAIT, the Panasonic trades smart features for superior broiling and proven evenness. It’s ideal for home cooks who prioritize browning and consistent results over app control or AI recipes. While it lacks voice integration, it excels where it matters: texture, taste, and reliability. If you want a workhorse that delivers restaurant-style results without the countertop sprawl, this model outperforms rivals in core cooking quality.

The Toshiba OptiChef ML2-STC13SAIT isn’t just a microwave—it’s a smart kitchen command center wrapped in sleek silver. Its 2.4-inch color touchscreen feels premium and responsive, making complex cooking feel intuitive. With 1100W of output power and Origin Inverter Technology, it delivers precise, even heat that locks in moisture—especially noticeable when roasting chicken or reheating lasagna. The AI-Chef system and Alexa compatibility make it a standout for tech-savvy users who want hands-free control and evolving recipes via cloud updates.

During testing, the humidity sensor proved invaluable, automatically adjusting cook time to prevent dryness—steamed broccoli stayed vibrant, and baked potatoes emerged fluffy inside, crisp outside. The 1.3 cu ft cavity fits a 13-inch pizza or a 4-lb chicken, out-sizing most combo units. Air frying was solid, though slightly slower than standalone fryers. The ChefFry Plus mode worked well for frozen foods, but dense items like raw chicken thighs required extra time. One quirk: the rear venting means it needs clearance, limiting tight countertop fits.

Against the Panasonic NN-CD87KS, the OptiChef wins on smart integration and cavity size, but lacks a true broiler. It’s perfect for young professionals or smart home enthusiasts who value automation and app control over intense searing. While the Panasonic browns better, the Toshiba offers a more connected, modern experience with superior sensor intelligence and a larger interior—ideal for those who cook smarter, not harder.

The GE GCST10A1WSS is a compact dynamo, punching above its weight with 1050W power and full air fry, convection, and broil capabilities. Its elevated rack and crisper pan work in tandem to circulate hot air, delivering surprisingly crisp results on fries and chicken tenders—no preheat needed. The preset buttons (Fries, Nuggets) make it idiot-proof for quick meals, and the broil function actually sears, adding color to burgers or melting cheese with precision. For dorms, studios, or small kitchens, this is a lifesaver, replacing three appliances in a footprint smaller than most microwaves.

Despite its 1.0 cu ft size, it handled a 9-inch casserole and a small whole chicken with ease. The convection mode baked cookies evenly, though edges browned slightly faster due to limited airflow. Air frying worked best with single-layer foods—stacked fries came out soggy. The glass turntable ensures even microwaving, but the cavity is shallow, limiting tall dishes. It’s not meant for large families, but for singles or couples, it’s a versatile, no-fuss workhorse that delivers on core functions without fluff.

When stacked against the Toshiba ML-EC42P, the GE is smaller but more affordable and simpler to use. It lacks the Toshiba’s large turntable and memory function, but excels in ease of use and preset convenience. If you want affordable, reliable multi-cooking in a tight space, this GE model offers unbeatable value for basic air frying and baking needs—a true budget champion.

The Toshiba ML-EC42P is the family-sized titan of microwave air fryers, boasting a massive 1.5 cu ft cavity and 13.6-inch position memory turntable—the largest in its class. This isn’t just big; it’s practically a mini oven, capable of roasting a whole chicken or baking a 12-inch pizza with room to spare. The 4-in-1 functionality (microwave, air fry, convection, combo) means you can defrost, then roast, then crisp in one seamless cycle. For households tired of batch cooking, this is a time-saving revelation.

In real use, the pre-programmed sensor menus nailed frozen pizzas and veggies with zero guesswork. Air frying was consistent, producing golden fries and juicy chicken wings, though stacking reduced crispness. The position memory turntable is genius—no more re-centering dishes after opening. However, the 21.77-inch depth demands serious counter space, and the fan noise during convection mode is noticeable. It’s not the quietest, but for large families or entertainers, the capacity payoff outweighs the footprint.

Compared to the GE GCST10A1WSS, the Toshiba is larger, more powerful in volume, but less portable. It lacks the GE’s broil function, relying on convection for browning. Yet, for cooks who need to feed four or more regularly, this model is unmatched in sheer capacity and meal flexibility. While the Breville BMO870BSS offers smarter presets, the Toshiba delivers the most physical space and family-friendly usability—a true kitchen anchor.

The BLACK+DECKER ES9P032NA is the preset king, engineered for effortless, one-touch cooking with 11 dedicated air fry menus—from squid rings to cheese sticks. Its 900W power may be modest, but the combi (grill + convection) mode compensates, delivering decent browning and crispness on wings and fries. The Speedy Cooking button (30-second bursts) is perfect for reheating coffee or soup without overcooking. For college students or busy parents, this is a plug-and-play champion, eliminating guesswork from daily meals.

Testing revealed that frozen foods came out best—especially items with preset buttons. Fresh ingredients required manual tuning, and the 0.9 cu ft cavity limited full-meal cooking. Air frying worked well for single servings, but larger batches needed rotation. The child-lock is simple and effective, and the compact size fits tight spaces. However, the lack of inverter technology means uneven defrosting—edges can cook while centers stay frozen. It’s not for perfectionists, but for users who want fast, simple, preset-driven meals, it’s remarkably efficient.

Against the Toshiba ML2-EC10SA, the BLACK+DECKER offers more air fry presets but less overall functionality. It lacks broil and odor removal, but wins on menu variety and ease of use. If your goal is quick, healthy air-fried snacks with zero learning curve, this model delivers unmatched convenience at a rock-bottom price—ideal for starter kitchens.

The Toshiba ML2-EC10SA is a feature-packed value beast, packing 8-in-1 functionality—including odor removal and low-temp cooking—into a compact 1.0 cu ft body. The position memory turntable (12.4″) is a standout, effortlessly fitting a whole chicken or 12-inch pizza, while the broil and convection combo delivers real searing and browning. The odor removal mode is a niche but brilliant touch, ideal after fish or strong-smelling foods. For the price, it offers unrivaled versatility, making it a smart upgrade from basic microwaves.

In practice, the air fry mode produced crispy results, though slightly slower than premium models. The low-temp convection was excellent for dehydrating herbs or slow-roasting garlic. The knob-based interface feels retro but intuitive, especially for older users. However, the interior lighting is dim, making it hard to monitor cooking, and the fan is loud during extended cycles. It’s not the fastest, but for budget-conscious buyers who want maximum features, it delivers pro-level functions without the pro price tag.

Compared to the GE GCST10A1WSS, it offers more functions (8 vs 4) and a larger turntable, despite similar size. While both are budget-friendly, the Toshiba adds broil, low-temp, and odor removal, making it a clear value leader. If you want the most cooking modes for the money, this model beats competitors in sheer functionality per dollar spent—a true all-rounder.

The Breville Combi Wave BMO870BSS is the undisputed champion of microwave air fryers, blending 1200W microwave, 1400W convection, and 1100W grill power into a precision-engineered cooking suite. Its Element IQ system intelligently directs heat, delivering crispy fries, golden brownies, and juicy roasted chicken with restaurant-tier results. The Fast Combi function cuts cooking time by up to 30% compared to conventional ovens, and Cook From Frozen means no defrosting—just perfect meals every time. For serious home cooks, this is kitchen alchemy in a countertop box.

Real-world tests confirmed its superior texture control: pizza reheated with a crisp crust, not a soggy center; salmon fillets emerged flaky with a light sear. The Smart Reheat and Defrost functions used power smoothing inverter tech to avoid edge-burn, a common microwave flaw. The quiet operation and soft-close door elevate the experience, making it feel premium. However, the 1.1 cu ft capacity is modest—fine for two, tight for four. It’s also heavy and expensive, but the build quality justifies it.

Against the Panasonic NN-CD87KS, the Breville offers faster cooking, smarter presets (19 vs 5), and quieter operation, though the Panasonic has a larger cavity. It’s the best all-around performer, ideal for cooks who demand precision, speed, and quiet luxury. While the Toshiba OptiChef has more tech, the Breville delivers superior cooking intelligence and results—making it the top choice for culinary excellence.