Comparison: Good Housekeeping Best Microwave Air Fryer (Updated | Dec 8th)

Look at the interior capacity and turntable size to ensure it can fit your typical meals, such as a whole chicken or a 12‑inch pizza. Check the wattage and whether the unit uses inverter or convection technology, as higher power and even heating translate to faster, more consistent results. Finally, consider extra functions like grill, defrost, and preset menus, as well as safety features such as child locks.

Higher microwave output (e.g., 1000‑1100 W) reduces cooking time and improves browning, especially when paired with convection or air‑fry modes. Inverter technology, found in models like Toshiba’s 6‑in‑1, provides steady power for gentle defrosting and precise temperature control. Conversely, lower‑wattage units may require longer cycles and can produce uneven results in air‑fry mode.

The Toshiba 8‑in‑1 Combo and the GE GCST10A1WSS both offer eight and five core functions respectively, including microwave, air fry, convection bake, grill/broil, and low‑temp cooking. Black+Decker’s 5‑in‑1 focuses on microwave, air fry, combi, bake, and roast, while the Ninja Crispi emphasizes a compact 4‑in‑1 (air fry, bake, max crisp, recrisp) with interchangeable glass containers. If you want the widest menu of presets, the Toshiba 8‑in‑1 and the 6‑in‑1 Inverter models lead the pack.

A larger cavity, such as the 1.3 cu ft space in Toshiba’s OptiChef model, lets you cook whole chickens, 13‑inch pizzas, or multiple dishes at once, reducing the need for separate appliances. However, the footprint grows proportionally, so ensure your kitchen has enough clearance. For small households or limited counter space, a compact 1.0 cu ft unit like the GE model still delivers solid performance without crowding the workspace.

Preset menus eliminate guesswork by automatically selecting time, power, and temperature for common foods like frozen pizza, fries, or popcorn. Sensor cooking, featured on many Toshiba and GE models, adjusts power in real time to prevent over‑cooking and preserve moisture. Together, they speed up meal prep and are especially helpful for novice cooks who want consistent results.

A two‑step child lock, like the one on Toshiba’s 8‑in‑1, requires a specific sequence to start the appliance, reducing accidental activation. Simple press‑and‑hold lock functions (e.g., Black+Decker’s three‑second lock) also work well. Low‑noise operation, found in Toshiba’s Inverter models, adds an extra layer of comfort for households with young children.

Higher‑priced models such as the Toshiba 8‑in‑1 and the Emeril Lagasse French‑door toaster oven offer extensive capacity, premium finishes, and a broader suite of cooking modes, delivering strong long‑term value for serious cooks. Mid‑range options like Black+Decker’s 5‑in‑1 or the GE 1.0 cu ft unit provide essential functions and solid performance at a lower cost, making them ideal for budget‑conscious shoppers. The Ninja Crispi’s 4‑in‑1 design is the most affordable but sacrifices some capacity and advanced presets.

Models with removable turntables and dishwasher‑safe glass containers, such as the Ninja Crispi and Black+Decker, simplify daily cleaning. Some units, like the Midea 4‑in‑1, include self‑cleaning cycles and cavity deodorization to keep the interior fresh. Stainless‑steel interiors, found on many Toshiba and Emeril Lagasse models, are easy to wipe down but may require occasional polishing to maintain their shine.