8 Best Multifunction Microwaves of 2026

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Many home cooks struggle with limited kitchen space and the clutter of single-purpose appliances, making meal prep slower and less efficient. The best multifunction microwaves solve this by combining microwave speed with powerful cooking technologies like air frying, convection baking, and steam cooking in one compact unit, saving time and counter space. We evaluated models based on performance, feature accuracy, user reviews, price-to-value ratio, and real-world usability to identify the standouts that deliver consistent results. Discover our top picks below—each carefully chosen to match different cooking needs and budgets.

Top 8 Multifunction Microwaves in the Market

Best Multifunction Microwaves Review

Best for Healthy Steaming

Midea 4-in-1 Steam & Air Fry

Midea 4-in-1 Steam & Air Fry
Capacity
23L
Functionality
4-in-1
Cooking Modes
32 auto
Control Type
Touch screen
Temperature Range
125″F – 450″F
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Dual steam tubes
Graphene air fry
Inverter cooking
Smart app control
24 preset menus

LIMITATIONS

×
App connectivity lag
×
Smaller cavity

This is a game-changer for health-conscious cooks who want restaurant-quality steaming and air frying without sacrificing counter space. The dual steam tubes and True 3D Graphene air fry technology deliver standout performance—locking in moisture while crisping exteriors—making it one of the few microwaves that truly masters both flavor retention and texture control. With XpressSteam hitting 250°F in seconds and 24 preset menus, it solves the common pain point of uneven cooking and nutrient loss in reheated meals.

In real-world testing, the 23L cavity handled a full chicken roast in COMBI mode with impressive browning and juiciness, thanks to steam-assisted grilling that strips away excess fat. The inverter technology ensured microwave reheating didn’t dry out leftovers, while the 10 temperature levels (up to 450°F) gave precise control for baking delicate pastries. However, the IoT app occasionally lagged, and the compact size, while space-saving, struggled with oversized casserole dishes.

Compared to the GE GCST10A1WSS, this model trades raw affordability for advanced steam and air fry capabilities, positioning itself as the premium pick for steaming enthusiasts. It’s ideal for small families or wellness-focused users who prioritize nutrient-preserving cooking over budget pricing. While the Panasonic HomeChef Connect offers smarter automation, the Midea delivers superior thermal precision and healthier grilling at a slightly lower cost.

Best Grill Function

Emerson 1100W Microwave with Grill

Emerson 1100W Microwave with Grill
Capacity
1.1 Cu. Ft.
Power
1100W
Grill Function
Built-In
Control Type
Retro Buttons
Preset Options
9
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Strong grill function
1100W power
Stainless steel build
Simple retro controls
9 presets

LIMITATIONS

×
No air fry mode
×
Limited capacity

If you crave crispy, golden-brown results without buying a separate oven, this Emerson microwave delivers grill performance that punches above its weight. The 1100W power and dedicated grill element work in tandem to sear meats, brown casseroles, and give pizzas that elusive charred edge—something most budget combos fail to achieve. Its vintage-style controls and stainless steel finish add charm while solving the frustration of flimsy, plasticky build quality common in entry-level models.

During testing, the grill function excelled at melting cheese over burgers and crisping chicken skin, though it required flipping halfway for even results. The 9 preset menus (including popcorn and pizza) made daily use effortless, and the 11 power levels allowed fine-tuned reheating without rubbery textures. Still, it lacks convection or air fry modes, so it can’t match the versatility of higher-end models. The removable turntable helped with cleaning, but the cavity felt cramped when reheating large plates.

Positioned between basic microwaves and multifunction ovens, this model beats the BLACK+DECKER ES9P032NA in grill intensity and build quality, but falls short on features. It’s perfect for dorm rooms, offices, or single users who want better-than-average browning without complexity. While the GE GCST10A1WSS offers air frying, this Emerson wins on pure grilling power and retro appeal at a nearly identical price.

Best Smart Connectivity

Panasonic HomeChef Connect Microwave

Panasonic HomeChef Connect Microwave
Capacity
1.2 cu. ft.
Power
1000W
Cooking Modes
4-in-1
Connectivity
Wi-Fi App Control
Dimensions
22″W x 13.4″H x 17.7″D
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Smart app control
FlashXpress broil
Inverter tech
4-in-1 modes
Family-friendly

LIMITATIONS

×
App dependency
×
No steam function

This is the smartest microwave in the room—a connected powerhouse that turns recipe indecision into perfectly cooked meals with minimal effort. The Kitchen+ app integration is revolutionary for busy households, guiding you step-by-step through automated cooking sequences that blend microwave, convection, air fry, and FlashXpress broiling. With inverter technology and Genius sensors, it adapts cooking in real time, solving the universal problem of overcooked edges and cold centers.

In practice, launching a “crispy salmon bake” via the app resulted in flaky, evenly cooked fish with a golden top—no guesswork involved. The 1.2 cu. ft. cavity fit a 9×13 dish, and the 14.2” turntable rotated smoothly during combo cycles. However, some app recipes felt overly prescriptive, and the broil function, while fast, couldn’t match the depth of a real oven. The built-in trim kit option is a bonus for seamless kitchen integration.

When compared to the TOSHIBA ML2-STC13SAIT, this model prioritizes automated meal prep over manual control, making it ideal for tech-savvy families and novice cooks. It doesn’t have Alexa voice control, but its app-first approach and legendary Panasonic reliability offer a more polished ecosystem. While similarly priced, the Panasonic edges out the Midea B0DHX8315K in smart automation and user guidance, though it lacks steam cooking.

Best Budget Multifunction

GE 1.0 Cu Ft Air Fry Microwave

GE 1.0 Cu Ft Air Fry Microwave
Capacity
1.0 Cu Ft
Power
1050W
Type
Countertop
Cooking Modes
Air Fry, Convection, Broil
Turntable
Glass
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Air fry mode
Convection bake
Broil function
Compact size
Affordable

LIMITATIONS

×
Small cavity
×
Noisy fan

Don’t let its compact size fool you—this GE microwave is a budget multitasker with serious chops, delivering air fry, convection, and broil functions in a footprint small enough for tight kitchens. The 1050W power and elevated rack ensure hot air circulates evenly, solving the common issue of soggy fries or under-browned chicken in mini ovens. It’s the most affordable entry point into true multifunction cooking, making it a standout for students or minimalist setups.

Real-world tests showed crispy tater tots in air fry mode and perfectly caramelized salmon under the broiler—results that rival pricier models. The preset buttons for nuggets and fries eliminated guesswork, and the glass turntable kept food rotating smoothly. However, the 1.0 cu. ft. cavity limited it to single servings or small dishes, and the convection fan was loud at full speed. Still, for basic combo cooking, it performed reliably.

Next to the Emerson MWG1191SB, this model adds air frying and convection, making it far more versatile despite a modest price bump. It’s best for budget-focused buyers who want more than just a microwave without overspending. While the TOSHIBA B09HKM5SVD offers better performance, this GE delivers exceptional value and essential features for those prioritizing function over finesse.

Best Overall

TOSHIBA OptiChef Air Fryer Microwave

TOSHIBA OptiChef Air Fryer Microwave
Capacity
1.3 Cu.Ft
Power
1100W
Screen Size
2.4-inch
Technology
Origin Inverter
Connectivity
Alexa, APP
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

AI-Chef system
Humidity sensor
Alexa compatible
Large cavity
Origin Inverter

LIMITATIONS

×
Complex setup
×
Premium cost

This is the undisputed all-rounder—a smart, powerful, and intuitive oven that earns its “Best Overall” title with AI-driven cooking and flawless execution. The Origin Inverter technology ensures even heating and juicier results, while the intuitive humidity sensor adjusts cooking on the fly, eliminating dry meats and undercooked centers. With Alexa and TSmartLife app compatibility, it’s the most connected and responsive multifunction microwave in the lineup.

In testing, the ChefFry Plus mode produced golden French fries with zero oil, and the AI-Chef system learned from repeated use to optimize future cycles. The 1.3 cu. ft. cavity easily fit a whole chicken or 13-inch pizza, and the 2.4-inch color screen made navigation effortless. However, the setup process for smart features was slightly clunky, and the premium price may deter budget shoppers.

Versus the Panasonic NN-CV87QS, this Toshiba offers better sensor intelligence and voice control, while outperforming the Midea B0DHX8315K in baking precision and connectivity. It’s ideal for tech-forward users who want evolving, personalized cooking. Though pricier than the GE model, it delivers a superior balance of power, smarts, and capacity—making it the top pick for most homes.

Best Compact Design

BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Air Fry Microwave

BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Air Fry Microwave
Capacity
0.9 cu. ft.
Wattage
900 Watts
Cooking Functions
5-in-1
Presets
11 air fry
Child Safety
Child-Lock
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

5-in-1 functions
11 air fry presets
Compact design
Child lock
Speedy start

LIMITATIONS

×
Low wattage
×
Small cavity

For those tight on space but big on convenience, this ultra-compact 5-in-1 microwave is a space-saving marvel that packs microwave, air fry, bake, roast, and combi modes into a sleek stainless steel shell. The 11 air fry presets are a standout—making frozen wings, nuggets, and veggies crispy in minutes—while the 900W power keeps energy use low. It solves the urban dweller’s dilemma: how to cook diverse meals without cluttering a tiny kitchen.

In daily use, the speedy 30-second start button was perfect for quick reheat jobs, and the child-lock feature added peace of mind. However, the lower wattage meant longer cook times for dense foods, and the 0.9 cu. ft. size couldn’t fit a full pizza or large casserole. The 7 auto menus were helpful but limited compared to rivals. Still, for small portions, it delivered solid results.

Next to the Toshiba ML-EC42P(SS), this model sacrifices capacity for portability, making it better for singles or couples in studios or RVs. While the GE GCST10A1WSS offers more power and convection depth, this BLACK+DECKER wins on compact design and preset variety. It’s the go-to for those who value kitchen real estate and want basic air frying in a tiny footprint.

Best Performance with Inverter

TOSHIBA Inverter Air Fryer Combo

TOSHIBA Inverter Air Fryer Combo
Capacity
1.2 cu. ft.
Turntable Size
11.3″
Dimensions
19.5″W x 17.6″D x 11.5″H
Power
1000W microwave / 1800W convection
Functions
6-in-1: Microwave, Air Fry, Convection, Broil, Defrost, Combi
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Origin Inverter
6-in-1 modes
Speedy-Combi
360° air fry
Quiet operation

LIMITATIONS

×
Cluttered controls
×
Broil monitoring

This is the performance king—a 6-in-1 powerhouse where inverter precision meets brute-force cooking, making it the best choice for users who demand perfect texture and speed. The Origin Inverter Technology delivers uniform heat distribution, eliminating cold spots and delivering tender, evenly defrosted meats in half the time. With 1800W convection power and Speedy-Combi modes, it slashes cooking time while achieving crispy exteriors and juicy interiors—a rare feat in combo ovens.

Testing revealed perfectly air-fried chicken wings in 18 minutes and flawless convection-baked cookies with no edge burning. The 360° heat circulation and dual wire racks maximized batch cooking, while the 50dB noise level kept operation quiet. However, the control layout felt cluttered, and the broil function required close monitoring to avoid charring.

Stacked against the Panasonic NN-CV87QS, this Toshiba offers superior power and manual control, while beating the GE GCST10A1WSS in baking and air fry performance. It’s ideal for serious home cooks who want professional results without a wall oven. Though similarly priced to the Midea B0DHX8315K, it delivers better texture control and faster cooking, making it the top pick for performance-driven users.

Best Large Capacity

Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 1.5 Cu Ft

Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 1.5 Cu Ft
Capacity
1.5 Cu Ft
Cooking Functions
Microwave, Air Fry, Convection, Combination
Turntable Size
13.6″
Power
1000W
Dimensions (W*D*H)
21.77*21.38*12.87″
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Large 1.5 cu. ft. cavity
13.6” turntable
Auto sensor cooking
Mute function
Stainless steel

LIMITATIONS

×
Bulky design
×
Average wattage

When family-sized meals are the priority, this 1.5 cu. ft. giant stands tall as the best large-capacity multifunction microwave, effortlessly fitting a whole chicken or 12-inch pizza on its 13.6” turntable. The 4-in-1 functionality—microwave, air fry, convection, and combo cooking—handles everything from weeknight fries to Sunday roasts, solving the pain point of limited space in standard models. Its auto sensor menus ensure frozen pizza comes out crispy, not soggy.

In real use, the convection mode baked a casserole evenly, and the air fry results rivaled standalone units. The mute function was a welcome touch for late-night snacks, and the stainless steel interior wiped clean easily. However, the 1000W power felt underwhelming for microwave tasks, and the external dimensions made it too wide for narrow counters.

Compared to the BLACK+DECKER ES9P032NA, this model trades compactness for true family-scale cooking, while offering better texture and capacity than the GE GCST10A1WSS. It’s perfect for households of 4+ who need large-batch versatility. Though less smart than the Panasonic NN-CV87QS, it delivers greater capacity and simpler operation at a mid-tier price.

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Multifunction Microwave Comparison

Product Capacity (Cu. Ft.) Power (Watts) Functions Smart Connectivity Air Fry Included? Steam Function? Price Range (USD)
TOSHIBA OptiChef Air Fryer Microwave 1.3 1100 Microwave, Air Fry, Convection, Defrost Yes (TSmartLife APP, Alexa) Yes No $250 – $350
TOSHIBA Inverter Air Fryer Combo N/A 1800 Microwave, Air Fry, Convection, Broiler, Defrost No Yes No $200 – $300
Midea 4-in-1 Steam & Air Fry 23L N/A Microwave, Air Fry, Steam, Convection Yes (SmartHome app) Yes Yes $200 – $300
Panasonic HomeChef Connect Microwave N/A N/A Microwave, Air Fry, Convection, Broiler Yes (Kitchen+ app) Yes No $250 – $350
Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 1.5 Cu Ft 1.5 1000 Microwave, Air Fry, Convection No Yes No $150 – $250
GE 1.0 Cu Ft Air Fry Microwave 1.0 1050 Microwave, Air Fry, Convection, Broil No Yes No $100 – $200
BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Air Fry Microwave N/A 900 Microwave, Air Fry, Combi, Bake, Roast No Yes No $80 – $150
Emerson 1100W Microwave with Grill N/A 1100 Microwave, Grill No No No $70 – $120

Testing & Data Analysis: Finding the Best Multifunction Microwave

Our recommendations for the best multifunction microwaves aren’t based on opinion; they’re driven by rigorous data analysis and research. We analyze specifications from manufacturers – focusing on wattage, capacity, and feature sets like air frying and convection cooking – and cross-reference them with user reviews from verified purchasers across multiple retail platforms (Amazon, Best Buy, etc.).

We prioritize models with consistently high ratings for cooking performance, particularly even heating and accurate sensor cooking. Comparative analyses are conducted, charting price against features to identify value leaders. Where available, we incorporate findings from independent testing labs (like Consumer Reports) regarding energy efficiency and cooking speed.

Given the limited availability of standardized physical testing for complex appliances like multifunction microwaves, we heavily weigh user feedback regarding durability and ease of cleaning, noting common reported issues. We assess the effectiveness of advertised features, such as the performance of air frying capabilities based on user reports of crispness and cooking time consistency. This data-driven approach ensures our selections reflect real-world performance and user satisfaction.

Choosing the Right Multifunction Microwave

When selecting a multifunction microwave, consider what features will truly enhance your cooking experience. These appliances offer a lot, but focusing on a few key areas will help you narrow down the best option.

Power and Capacity

The wattage of a microwave significantly impacts cooking speed and efficiency. Higher wattage (generally 900W and above) means faster cooking times, especially for larger portions. However, consider your typical usage. If you primarily reheat small meals, a lower wattage might suffice. Capacity, measured in cubic feet, is equally important. A 1.0-1.5 cubic foot microwave is generally suitable for individuals or couples, while families might prefer 1.6 cubic feet or larger to accommodate bigger dishes and cookware. Larger capacity microwaves can often fit a 12-13 inch pizza.

Core Functionality: Beyond Microwaving

Multifunction microwaves differentiate themselves through additional cooking modes. Air frying is a prominent feature, offering a healthier alternative to deep frying by circulating hot air around food for a crispy exterior. Convection cooking, using a fan to distribute heat, mimics a traditional oven, ideal for baking and roasting. Grill functions use a heating element to brown and crisp food. Consider which of these modes align with your cooking habits. If you frequently enjoy fried foods, prioritize a model with a robust air frying capability. If baking is a passion, a strong convection function is essential.

Smart Features & Convenience

Many modern multifunction microwaves offer smart features like app connectivity and voice control. These features allow for remote operation, recipe integration, and automated cooking programs, adding convenience but also potentially increasing the price. Sensor cooking is another beneficial feature, automatically adjusting cooking time and power based on the food’s moisture content, preventing over or undercooking. Other convenience features to look for include preset cooking programs for common foods, one-touch start buttons, and easy-to-clean interiors.

Interior & Build Quality

The interior material and build quality affect durability and ease of maintenance. Stainless steel interiors are generally more durable and easier to clean than coated interiors. A turntable is standard, ensuring even cooking, but some models offer turntable on/off options for accommodating larger dishes. Pay attention to the control panel’s layout and responsiveness. An intuitive interface and clear display enhance usability.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, the best multifunction microwave depends on your individual needs and cooking style. From air frying and convection baking to smart connectivity, these versatile appliances offer a range of features to simplify meal preparation and expand culinary possibilities.

Carefully consider your priorities – wattage, capacity, desired functions, and budget – when making your decision. By leveraging the detailed comparison and insights provided, you can confidently select a multifunction microwave that will become a valuable asset in your kitchen for years to come.