Air fryer microwave combos are becoming increasingly popular kitchen appliances. These 2-in-1 appliances combine the quick cooking and crisping capabilities of an air fryer with the speed and convenience of a microwave. For many home cooks, an air fryer microwave is the perfect small appliance to save counter space without sacrificing versatility and functionality.
When shopping for an air fryer microwave combo, you’ll find options in a range of sizes. If counter space is limited in your kitchen, you may be looking for the most compact model available. Keep reading to learn more about the smallest air fryer microwave combos and how to choose the right sized model for your needs.
What is an Air Fryer Microwave Combo?
An air fryer microwave combo is a 2-in-1 countertop appliance that combines the functions of an air fryer and a microwave into one unit. Here are some key features that set these hybrid appliances apart:
– Air Frying: Air fryer microwave combos circulate hot air to crisp and cook foods like french fries, chicken wings, and veggies with little to no oil needed. The rapid air circulation mimics deep frying for crunchy textures without the added calories from oil.
– Microwaving: These appliances include all the quick-cooking functions of a typical microwave oven. You can reheat leftovers, defrost foods, pop popcorn, and more.
– Compact Size: Combining two appliances into one helps maximize countertop real estate. Air fryer microwave combos are available in a range of sizes to suit different kitchens and needs.
– Preset Programs: Many models come with preset cooking modes and air frying options to take the guesswork out of getting the best results.
– Fast Cooking: With both air frying and microwave functions, these hybrid ovens can cook foods very quickly compared to using just one or the other appliance.
What are the Benefits of an Air Fryer Microwave Combo?
Here are some of the top advantages of choosing an air fryer microwave combo for your kitchen:
– Saves Counter Space: Eliminates the need for two separate countertop appliances. Great for small kitchens.
– Budget-Friendly: Costs less than buying both an air fryer and microwave separately.
– Versatility: One appliance provides the quick-cooking functionality of a microwave plus the crispy air frying capabilities.
– Air Fry With Less Oil: Get that crispy, fried texture without all the added fat and calories from deep frying.
– Even Heating: Microwaves provide fast, even heat distribution for thorough cooking.
– Quick Cooking: Radiant heat from the air fryer and microwave settings cuts cooking times significantly.
– Easy to Use: Preset functions simplify air frying, microwaving, and more with the touch of a button.
– Simplifies Cleaning: Having just one appliance to clean rather than two separate ones saves time.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Air Fryer Microwave
Keep the following factors in mind when shopping for the best air fryer microwave for your needs:
– Size/Capacity: Consider the dimensions and interior capacity needed to handle your typical cooking load.
– Wattage: Higher wattage means faster cooking. Microwave wattage ranges from 500-1250W.
– Controls: Look for intuitive control panels with preset options for one-touch cooking.
– Settings: Make sure it includes the cooking modes you’ll use most like air frying, grilling, reheating, popcorn, defrosting, etc.
– Temperature Range: Having a wide and accurate temperature range (usually 200°F-400°F) allows more versatility.
– Accessories: Some come with bonus accessories like air frying baskets, grilling trays, and racks for added value.
– Smart Features: Options like app control, automatic programs, and voice commands take the guesswork out of cooking.
– Easy Cleaning: Nonstick, dishwasher safe parts allow simpler post-cooking cleanup.
– Brand Reputation: Stick with reputable brands known for quality and durability.
– Price: Air fryer microwave combo prices typically range from $150-$300+ depending on size, features, and brand.
What are the Smallest Air Fryer Microwave Combos?
The most compact air fryer microwave combos range between 0.5 cubic feet to just over 1 cubic foot of internal capacity. Here are some of the smallest models available:
Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven
– 0.5 Cubic Feet Capacity
– 900 Watts
– 10 Auto-Cook Programs
– Dual Convection Fan with Air Fry Crisping
– Temp Range: 105°- 450°F
– Dishwasher Safe Parts
Breville Quick Touch Crisp
– 0.7 Cubic Feet Capacity
– 1200 Watts
– Element iQ System for Even Heating
– 10 Preset Cooking Functions
– Temp Range: 105°- 480°F
– Non-Stick Interior for Easy Cleanup
Toshiba EM131A5C-BS
– 1.2 Cubic Feet Capacity
– 1000 Watts
– Pre-Programmed Microwave & Air Fry Menus
– Stainless Steel Interior
– Temp Range: 150°- 400°F
– Mute Function
Cuisinart TOA-60
– 0.6 Cubic Feet Capacity
– 1100 Watts
– 7 Menu Functions
– Adjustable Thermostat to 450°F
– Non-Stick Interior
– LCD Display with Touchpad
Detailed Review of the Top 3 Smallest Models
To give you a closer look at some of the best options for small kitchens, here are detailed reviews of 3 top-rated compact air fryer microwave combos:
Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven
The Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven tops the list when it comes to the very smallest air fryer microwave models at just 0.5 cubic feet capacity. But don’t let its petite footprint fool you—this mighty mini still packs a powerful cooking punch.
Despite its small size, it can accommodate up to a 5-pound chicken or 6 slices of bread thanks to its flip-up design that opens the appliance up fully when in use. This makes it a great option for singles, couples, and small families.
With 900 watts of microwave power, it reheats foods quickly and evenly. The proprietary TenderCrisp Technology allows you to quickly pressure cook foods to lock in juices then finish with a crispy air fryer finish.
The customizable Crisper Plate gives you the flexibility to air fry foods from frozen to golden perfection or roast veggies flawlessly. With temperatures ranging from 105° to 450°F, you can tackle nearly any cooking task.
Ten auto-cook programs simplify everything from baking and roasting to broiling, reheating, and dehydrating with the touch of a button. The interior ceramic coating is nonstick for fast cleanups. With dishwasher safe parts, maintaining this workhorse appliance is a breeze.
When it comes to high performance cooking in a petite package, the Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven is hard to beat. Its combination of versatile functions and ultra-compact size make it the smallest air fryer microwave worth considering.
Breville Quick Touch Crisp
As one of the more premium compact options, the Breville Quick Touch Crisp air fryer microwave offers standout performance and durability. At 0.7 cubic feet capacity, it can handle small meals but takes up minimal counter real estate.
This 1200-watt microwave delivers fast cooking thanks to Breville’s Element iQ system, which intelligently controls the power distribution for even heating results. The combination of convection and air frying capabilities provides crispy food textures without loads of added oil.
With 10 pre-programmed cooking functions, you can air fry, bake, broil, roast, reheat, and toast at the touch of a button. It intelligently adjusts time and temperature for perfect doneness. The interior light helps you monitor cooking progress.
The Quick Touch Crisp reaches scorching temperatures up to 480°F for air frying, broiling, and dehydrating. The non-stick cavity makes cleanup painless. While compact in size, Breville didn’t skimp on quality or versatility. It’s engineered for performance and durability despite its smaller footprint.
For those seeking an ultra-compact air fryer microwave without compromising quality or functionality, the Breville Quick Touch Crisp is a stellar choice. The thoughtful cooking presets provide added convenience in a powerful, petite package.
Toshiba EM131A5C-BS
The Toshiba EM131A5C-BS is one of the larger options on our list at 1.2 cubic feet but still among the more petite microwaves with air fryer functionality. It earns high marks for performance, versatility, and value.
With 1000 watts of microwave power, it reheats and cooks foods quickly. The integrated air fryer function allows you to crisp everything from fries to chicken wings and empanadas using little to no oil.
There are 10 built-in presets for microwaving popcorn, pizza, potatoes, frozen entrees, and more. It also includes dedicated air fry menus with recommended time and temperature settings to take the guesswork out of cooking.
The stainless steel interior is both stylish and highly durable. The EM131A5C reaches up to 400°F for all your high-heat cooking tasks. From the streamlined touch controls to the sleek handle, this model is as user-friendly as it is versatile.
For those seeking a compact microwave with a spacious 1+ cubic foot interior, the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS is a leading choice. It combines versatile cooking functions and generous capacity in a smaller footprint perfect for apartment, dorm, or office use.
Accessories to Enhance Your Air Fryer Microwave
One way to maximize the versatility of your combo air fryer microwave is by utilizing compatible accessories. Here are some of the top accessories to enhance functionality:
Cooking Racks
Cooking racks allow you to cook multiple items in layers. This lets you take advantage of the entire interior capacity. It also improves air flow all around for even crisping.
Rotisserie Kit
A rotisserie kit lets you perfectly roast chicken, pork roasts, legs of lamb, and other proteins for caramelized, savory results. The rotisserie rotation bastes meats in their own juices for added flavor.
Air Fry Basket
A dedicated air fry basket makes it easy to crisp up wings, fries, nuggets, and other finger foods. The basket design allows for maximum air circulation.
Pizza Pan
A pizza pan gives you that crispy crust when cooking pizza, flatbreads, tarts, and other baked goods right in your combo oven.
Grill Plates
Grill plates allow you to add those nice sear marks to meats, veggies, and panini. Some are reversible with a griddle surface on one side.
Tips for Using Your Air Fryer Microwave
To get the most efficient and effective use out of your combo air fryer microwave, keep these handy tips in mind:
– When air frying, cut ingredients to uniform sizes for even cooking.
– Flip or toss foods midway through air frying for optimal crisping on all sides.
– Use a bit of oil or cooking spray to promote browning and prevent sticking when air frying.
– Give foods room when cooking multiple items in batches. Overcrowding reduces crisping.
– Re-position foods from the outer edges to the center periodically for even doneness when microwaving.
– Allow standing time after microwaving so the residual heat finishes cooking the food.
– Refer to a microwave cooking time chart for guidance to avoid under- or over-cooking.
– Wrap foods well or use microwave-safe lidded dishes when reheating to prevent splatters.
– Use microwave-safe cookware and accessories only. Metal can damage microwaves.
– Keep the interior clean to avoid any food splatters or grease buildup while cooking.
FAQs
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about small air fryer microwave combos:
Are air fryer microwaves actually healthy?
While not inherently the healthiest cooking method, air fryer microwaves can be a healthier option compared to deep frying. Using little to no oil slashes fat and calories while still delivering crispy textures.
What size air fryer microwave do I need?
Consider how much you typically cook at once. Compact 0.5-1.0 cubic feet models can accommodate small meals for 1-3 people while larger 1.5+ cubic foot models handle bigger cook loads.
Which is better: air fryer oven vs air fryer microwave?
Air fryer ovens may offer larger capacities and the ability to cook an entire meal at once. But air fryer microwaves save counter space and allow quick one-touch reheating. Consider your cooking needs.
Can you put metal in an air fryer microwave?
Never put metal cookware or accessories in an air fryer microwave as it can damage the appliance and cause electrical hazards. Use only microwave-safe ceramics and heat-resistant plastics.
Should you get a convection microwave or air fryer microwave?
Air fryer microwaves circulate very hot air for crisping, similar to deep frying. Convection microwaves rely on a fan to distribute dry heat more evenly. Convection microwaves won’t get as crispy as an air fryer microwave.
Final Thoughts
When searching for the smallest air fryer microwave combo, key compact models include the Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven, Breville Quick Touch Crisp, and Toshiba EM131A5C-BS. Consider your cooking needs and kitchen space.
The right accessories like cooking racks, air fry baskets, and rotisserie kits can further maximize functionality. Follow proper usage and care tips to get the most efficient cooking results from your petite yet powerful air fryer microwave.