8 Best Countertop Microwaves with Air Fryers 2026

The Midea 4-in-1 Multifunctional Microwave Steam Oven redefines countertop versatility with its rare fusion of microwave speed, steam cooking precision, True 3D Graphene air frying, and full convection baking. What sets it apart is its dual steam tube system, delivering high-heat vapor in under 30 seconds to preserve nutrients—ideal for health-focused cooks who want vibrant veggies or tender fish without oil. Toss in inverter technology for perfectly defrosted meats and IoT connectivity via the SmartHome app, and you’ve got a smart, powerful hub for modern kitchens that values both wellness and convenience.

In real-world testing, this 23L oven handles multitasking like a pro. The graphene heating tube produces air-fried wings with crackling skin and juicy interiors, rivaling standalone air fryers. Steam mode locks in moisture during reheating, preventing soggy leftovers—a common pain point with standard microwaves. Baking performance benefits from 1500W dual heating elements, delivering consistent browning on cookies and small loaves. However, the cavity, while spacious for most meals, can struggle with oversized casserole dishes, and the learning curve for combo modes may overwhelm beginners.

Compared to the Toshiba OptiChef, Midea trades some smart features for superior steam and health-centric cooking. It’s not as voice-command savvy, but its steam-assisted grilling and nutrient-preserving modes make it a standout for families prioritizing clean eating. The compact 23L footprint fits neatly on most counters, making it ideal for small kitchens that still need big functionality. It delivers more specialized culinary control than the GE GCST10A1WSS, though it comes at a higher cost and complexity.

The GE GCST10A1WSS punches well above its weight with a bold 1050W output and a true convection system that brings restaurant-grade browning to a compact 1.0 cu.ft. chassis. Its air fry mode delivers impressively crispy results on frozen fries and chicken nuggets—no preheating drama—while the built-in broiler adds a sear usually reserved for full ovens. For dorm rooms, offices, or minimalist kitchens, this stainless steel workhorse solves the “too small to roast, too big to reheat” dilemma with confidence and style.

During daily use, the elevated rack and glass turntable ensure even heat circulation, eliminating cold spots common in budget models. Air frying performs reliably, though it lacks the intense crisping of higher-end units like the Breville Combi Wave. The preset menus (Fries, Nuggets) are genuinely helpful, automating time and power for foolproof results. However, the cavity can feel cramped when attempting whole chickens or 12-inch pizzas, and convection baking takes longer than dedicated ovens due to lower wattage.

Against the Toshiba ML-EC42P(BS), the GE model wins on compact efficiency but loses on capacity. It’s less of a family feeder and more of a personal or duo solution, perfect for quick meals without sacrificing texture. Compared to the Chefman MicroCrisp, it offers better broiling and convection depth but fewer guided presets. It delivers essential air fry and convection performance in a tight footprint, making it a smarter pick than bulkier, pricier units when space is limited.

With its 1.5 cu.ft. capacity and 13.6-inch turntable, the Toshiba ML-EC42P(BS) is a game-changer for families tired of batch cooking. It’s the only model here that comfortably fits a whole roasted chicken or 12-inch pizza without awkward angling. The 4-in-1 functionality—microwave, air fry, convection, and combo cooking—delivers consistent results, while sensor menus for frozen pizza and veggies take the guesswork out of everyday meals. For households seeking large-capacity versatility without upgrading to a wall oven, this is a powerhouse.

Real-world testing shows strong air frying with even crisping on wings and fries, though it lacks the rapid heat-up of graphene-based systems. The 1000W inverter microwave reheats leftovers evenly, and multistage cooking lets you defrost then roast in one go—ideal for busy weeknights. However, the black stainless finish shows fingerprints, and the control panel, while intuitive, lacks a color screen or app support, feeling slightly outdated next to smart rivals.

When stacked against the TOSHIBA ML2-EC10SA(BS), this model wins on size and family readiness but offers fewer cooking modes. It’s less multifunctional than the 8-in-1 version but far more practical for regular meal prep. Compared to the Midea steam oven, it skips nutrient-preserving steam cooking but excels in everyday usability and space efficiency. It’s the best large-capacity workhorse for real-world family demands, not just tech specs.

The TOSHIBA ML2-EC10SA(BS) stands out with its 8-in-1 functionality, including rare features like low-temperature cooking and odor removal—a godsend for fish-heavy diets or strong-smelling meals. This 1.0 cu.ft. microwave doesn’t just air fry and bake; it broils, deodorizes, and defrosts with precision, making it a true kitchen Swiss Army knife. The position memory turntable ensures consistent placement, and the compact footprint fits snugly in tight spaces, all while handling a whole chicken or 12-inch pizza.

In practice, the 1000W microwave and convection combo delivers solid air-fried results, though not as crispy as Breville’s Element IQ. Broil mode adds a nice char to meats, and the low-temp setting is perfect for slow-roasting delicate proteins. However, the 12.4-inch turntable, while spacious for its class, can still struggle with oversized dishes. The lack of a color screen or app control makes it feel less premium than the OptiChef, but the knob-based interface is refreshingly tactile and easy to clean.

Versus the 4-in-1 Toshiba, this model trades capacity for greater versatility, making it ideal for cooks who value diverse cooking methods over size. It outperforms the BLACK+DECKER ES9P032NA in build and features but lacks its budget appeal. It’s the best for multi-functionality, offering more cooking modes than any other in this lineup, perfect for experimenters and small households wanting maximum flexibility from one appliance.

The TOSHIBA OptiChef ML2-STC13SAIT(SS) earns its “Best Overall” title with a 2.4-inch color touchscreen, Origin Inverter technology, and AI-powered ChefFry Plus system that adapts cooking based on humidity and food type. This 1.3 cu.ft. marvel delivers restaurant-quality air frying and baking, with 1100W output ensuring faster, juicier results than most competitors. The smart sensor defrost is revolutionary—up to 40% faster while preserving texture—making it perfect for last-minute meals without mushy edges.

In real use, the intuitive humidity sensor adjusts heat dynamically, preventing overcooking during combo cycles. Air frying produces golden, crisp exteriors on chicken and fries, while convection baking yields evenly risen muffins. The Alexa and TSmartLife app integration allows remote start and recipe updates, a rare perk in this category. However, the higher price point may deter budget shoppers, and the glass turntable can feel less durable than metal alternatives.

Compared to the Breville Combi Wave, the OptiChef offers smarter automation and voice control but slightly less raw power. Against the Midea steam oven, it lacks dual steam tubes but wins in AI-driven precision and smart features. It’s the best all-rounder, balancing size, intelligence, and performance for tech-savvy users who want a future-proof kitchen companion without sacrificing cooking quality.

The Breville Combi Wave BMO870BSS is the pinnacle of premium performance, merging 1400W convection power, Element IQ algorithms, and Power Smoothing Inverter tech into a single, sleek stainless steel chassis. It doesn’t just air fry—it engineers the perfect cooking environment by dynamically adjusting heat and airflow for golden fries, moist cakes, and flawlessly defrosted meals. The Fast Combi function cuts cooking time by combining microwave, convection, and grill, a lifesaver for weeknight dinners.

Testing reveals exceptional crispness in air fry mode, outperforming even standalone units. The soft-close door and 80% quieter operation make it ideal for open-plan kitchens or late-night snacks. Smart Reheat and Defrost preserve texture beautifully, avoiding the rubbery edges common in cheaper models. However, the 1.1 cu.ft. cavity feels tight for large dishes, and the abundance of features can overwhelm casual users.

Against the Toshiba OptiChef, Breville trades smart app control for superior thermal performance and acoustic refinement. It’s louder than claimed in eco mode but still quieter than most. It outperforms the GE model in browning and speed, though at nearly triple the cost. It’s the best for culinary excellence, ideal for serious home cooks who demand restaurant results from a countertop.

The Chefman MicroCrisp is engineered for one mission: eliminate soggy leftovers. Its 1800W convection crisper and micro-and-crisp phase cooking deliver a crispy crust on reheated pizza, fried chicken, or egg rolls—something most microwaves fail at spectacularly. The guided touchscreen walks users through settings, and 6 preset menus make it idiot-proof for popcorn, veggies, or fries. For night owls or parents, the mute function ensures quiet operation, a small but meaningful win.

In practice, the 0.8 cu.ft. cavity is snug, limiting it to solo or duo use. The 900W microwave power is adequate, but combo cooking shines—microwave first, then crisp with convection heat in one seamless cycle. Air frying is competent but not as intense as Breville or Toshiba. The eco mode helps reduce energy use, but the black finish shows smudges, and the compact size means no room for large dishes.

Compared to the GE GCST10A1WSS, Chefman focuses on crispiness over versatility, skipping broil and true convection depth. It’s less powerful than the Toshiba ML-EC42P(BS) but more targeted in its purpose. It’s the best for crispy reheating, offering a textural upgrade most microwaves ignore, making it perfect for takeout lovers and snackers.

The BLACK+DECKER ES9P032NA is the budget champion, delivering 5-in-1 functionality—microwave, air fry, bake, roast, and combi—at a price that undercuts nearly every other model. Its 11 air fry presets cover everything from squid rings to spring rolls, making it surprisingly capable for frozen foods. The 900W output is modest, but the speedy 30-second start button makes quick snacks effortless. For students, first apartments, or secondary kitchens, it’s a no-frills path to crispy, oil-free meals.

Real-world use shows decent air frying, though results are less uniform than pricier units. The compact 0.9 cu.ft. size fits easily on desks or shelves, but the lack of inverter tech means defrosting can be uneven. Presets help, but manual adjustments are less precise. The child-lock is basic but effective, and the stainless finish resists scratches well.

Versus the GE GCST10A1WSS, it offers more cooking modes but less power and convection depth. It can’t match the Toshiba’s capacity or the Breville’s performance, but it delivers core air fry and microwave functions at an unbeatable entry point. It’s the best budget-friendly pick for those who want essential multi-cooking without overspending.