The Best Combination Microwave

Combination microwaves have become a staple in modern kitchens, offering the speed of a microwave with the browning, baking, and crisping capabilities of a convection oven or air fryer.

Whether you’re reheating leftovers, roasting vegetables, or air-frying chicken wings, a quality combination microwave can replace multiple appliances and save counter space.

At BestProducts, we evaluate each model through rigorous research, analyzing specifications, expert review consensus, verified buyer feedback, and published data, to assign a BP Score on a 0-to-10 scale.

This article highlights the top-rated combination microwaves available in 2026, helping you find the perfect fit for your cooking needs.

Our picks span a range of sizes, features, and budgets, from compact units ideal for small kitchens to full-featured combos with air fry, convection, and broil modes.

Below, you’ll find our curated list of the best combination microwaves, followed by a detailed buying guide, why you can trust our recommendations, final thoughts with award highlights, and answers to common questions.

Best Combination Microwave Buying Guide

Capacity and Footprint

Consider how much interior space you need for everyday meals. Combination microwaves typically range from 0.7 to 1.6 cubic feet. A 0.7, 0.9 cu. ft. model suits singles or couples, while 1.0 cu. ft. and above can fit a whole chicken or large casserole dish.

Measure your counter depth and height to ensure the unit fits, especially if you plan to use it under cabinets. Some combos are taller due to built-in air fry baskets or convection fans, so check dimensions carefully.

If you have limited counter space, a compact combination microwave (like the 0.9 cu. ft. models) can still offer air fry and convection functions without dominating your kitchen.

For larger households, a 1.5 cu. ft. or 1.6 cu. ft. unit provides enough room for family-sized dishes and reduces the need for multiple cooking batches.

Cooking Modes: Air Fry, Convection, Broil

The hallmark of a combination microwave is its ability to cook beyond simple reheating.

Look for models that offer at least two additional cooking methods, convection for baking and roasting, air frying for crispy results with less oil, and broil for browning tops.

Some high-end units also include a humidity sensor for automatic adjustments and a speedy combo mode that combines microwave and convection for faster cooking.

Not all combos are created equal: some use a dedicated heating element for convection, while others rely on a quartz or ceramic heater. Verified buyer feedback often highlights models that heat evenly and brown food consistently.

Expert reviews consistently praise units that deliver true air fry performance, crispy exteriors without drying out the interior.

Power and Performance

Wattage determines how quickly and evenly food cooks. Most combination microwaves offer 900, 1000 watts for microwave mode, which is sufficient for everyday tasks. For convection and air frying, higher wattage (1000W+) generally means faster preheating and better browning.

Inverter technology (found in some Toshiba models) provides consistent power delivery for gentle defrosting and even heating, especially useful for delicate foods.

Check the turntable diameter as well: a larger turntable (11, 12.4 inches) accommodates bigger plates and reduces the need to rotate dishes manually.

If you cook frozen pizzas or large casseroles frequently, opt for a model with a spacious turntable or one that allows the turntable to be turned off for rectangular cookware.

Ease of Use and Controls

User-friendly controls make daily operation pleasant. Look for models with intuitive button layouts, a clear digital display, and one-touch presets for popcorn, potato, pizza, and beverage.

Some combos offer a mute function to disable beeps, a nice feature for open-concept kitchens or when cooking late at night. Child lock is essential for households with young children.

Multistage cooking (e.g., defrost then cook) is a valuable convenience. Many top-rated models also include a memory function to save your favorite settings.

Verified buyer reviews often note that straightforward controls and a well-organized manual reduce the learning curve, especially for first-time combination microwave users.

Build Quality and Design

Stainless steel exteriors resist fingerprints and match most kitchen decors. A sturdy door hinge and smooth latch mechanism indicate better longevity.

Check the interior material, some models have a ceramic enamel coating that’s easier to clean and more durable than standard paint. Ventilation is also important; ensure the unit has adequate airflow around the electronics to prevent overheating.

For those who plan to use the air fry function frequently, look for a model that includes a dedicated air fry basket or crisper tray. Some combos also offer a steam cleaning function to loosen baked-on food.

Weight and stability matter too: a heavier unit tends to be more robust and less likely to shift during operation.

Price and Value

Combination microwaves span a wide price range, from budget-friendly options under $100 to premium units over $300. Higher-priced models typically include more cooking modes, larger capacity, inverter technology, and smart features like app connectivity.

However, many mid-range options (around $150, $250) deliver excellent performance and a solid set of features without breaking the bank.

When evaluating value, consider the number of functions you’ll actually use. If you mainly need a microwave with occasional air frying, a 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 model may be sufficient.

For serious home cooks who want to replace a toaster oven and microwave, a 4-in-1 or 5-in-1 unit with convection, broil, and air fry offers the best return on investment.

Our picks below are chosen based on BP Score, which reflects the balance of performance, features, and reliability.

Why You Should Trust Us

BestProducts is an independent review site dedicated to helping you make informed buying decisions. We do not conduct our own product trials; our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback.

Each product in this guide has been assessed against a consistent set of criteria, including specifications, real-world user experiences, and professional analysis, and scored on our 0-to-10 BP Score.

Our goal is to highlight the models that offer the best combination of performance, features, and reliability for their price range.

We are transparent about our affiliate relationships: we may earn a commission from purchases made through links on this site, but this does not influence our rankings or recommendations. Our editorial team selects products based solely on their merit, ensuring you get honest, unbiased advice.

Final Thoughts

• Best Overall: TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo, With a BP Score of 9.9/10, this model combines microwave, air fry, convection, and broil functions in a compact 1.0 cu. ft. footprint. Its inverter technology ensures even cooking, and the 27 auto menus make meal prep effortless. Verified buyers consistently praise its even heating and quiet operation.
• Best Value: BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo, Scoring 9.8/10, this 0.9 cu. ft. unit offers five cooking modes at a mid-range price. It includes air fry, convection, and broil, plus a mute function and child lock. Users love the easy cleanup and compact size that fits most counters.
• Best for Versatility: TOSHIBA 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven with Air Fryer, With a 1.5 cu. ft. capacity and 1000W power, this model (BP Score 9.9) excels at large meals. The air fry basket and convection fan deliver crispy results, and the stainless steel finish looks sleek in any kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a combination microwave?

A combination microwave integrates microwave technology with additional cooking methods such as convection (fan-forced hot air), broil (top heat), or air frying (high-speed fan).

This allows you to bake, roast, crisp, and brown foods beyond what a standard microwave can do, essentially replacing a toaster oven or small convection oven.

Can a combination microwave replace a full-sized oven?

For many everyday tasks, baking small casseroles, roasting chicken pieces, air frying frozen foods, a combination microwave can serve as a capable secondary oven.

However, it cannot replace a full-sized oven for large roasts, multiple racks of cookies, or dishes requiring precise temperature control over long periods. Think of it as a versatile supplement that saves time and energy for smaller meals.

How do I clean a combination microwave?

Wipe the interior with a damp cloth after each use. For stuck-on food, place a bowl of water with lemon slices inside and run the microwave for 2, 3 minutes; the steam loosens residue.

Avoid abrasive cleaners on the control panel and interior coating. Many models have a removable turntable and air fry basket that are dishwasher safe. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific care instructions.

Do combination microwaves use more electricity than standard microwaves?

Combination microwaves generally consume similar wattage in microwave mode (900, 1000W).

When using convection or air fry, they may draw slightly more power due to the heating element and fan, but overall they are still more energy-efficient than a full-sized oven because they heat a smaller cavity and cook faster.

Look for models with an eco mode or energy-saving settings to minimize electricity use.

What size combination microwave should I buy?

Choose based on your household size and typical dishes. A 0.7, 0.9 cu. ft. model is ideal for 1, 2 people and fits smaller countertops. A 1.0, 1.2 cu. ft. unit offers more flexibility for casseroles and medium roasts.

For families of 4 or more, consider 1.5, 1.6 cu. ft. models that can accommodate a whole chicken or a 9×13 baking dish. Always measure your counter space and check the unit’s external dimensions before purchasing.

Are combination microwaves noisy?

Some noise is normal, the fan for convection or air frying can be audible, similar to a toaster oven. However, many modern models include sound-dampening features and a mute option for the beeps.

Verified buyer reviews often note that premium units like the Toshiba Master Series are quieter than average. If noise is a concern, look for models with a quiet mode or read user feedback on noise levels.

About the author