Air Fryer vs Microwave: Which is the Best for Healthy Cooking

Air fryers and microwaves are two of the most popular kitchen appliances used for cooking food. They have their unique features and benefits that make them suitable for different cooking needs. In this article, we'll compare the best air fryers vs. microwaves on the market and recommend the top products for you.

GE 3-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven

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Type: Countertop Microwave Oven with Air Fryer, Broiler & Convection Mode

Capacity: 1.0 Cubic Feet

Overall Dimensions: 20.2 x 21.8 x 12.1 inches

Presets: 10 Power Levels, Express Cook, Defrost, Broil, Convection, and Air Fry

Reason to buy: Versatile cooking options, spacious capacity, durable stainless steel construction

Reason to avoid: Higher price point, may take up more counter space than a standalone air fryer

Customer evaluations: Customers praise the GE 3-in-1 Microwave Oven for its ability to cook food evenly and quickly with various cooking modes. The air fryer function is a popular feature among buyers, with many reporting crispy and delicious results.

Toshiba 4-in-1 ML-EC42P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven

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Type: Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor, Convection, Air Fryer Combo

Capacity: 1.5 Cubic Feet

Overall Dimensions: 21.8 x 21.5 x 13 inches

Presets: 10 Power Levels, Express Cook, Defrost, Convection, and Air Fry

Reason to buy: Large capacity, smart sensor cooking, versatile cooking modes

Reason to avoid: Some buyers report the air fryer function does not produce as crispy results as standalone air fryers

Customer evaluations: Customers love the large capacity of the Toshiba 4-in-1 Microwave Oven and the convenience of the smart sensor cooking feature. The convection and air fryer functions are also popular among buyers, with many praising their performance.

Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven

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Type: Countertop Microwave Oven with Air Fryer, Convection Bake, FlashXpress Broiler, Inverter Microwave Technology

Capacity: 1.2 Cubic Feet

Overall Dimensions: 22.8 x 19.4 x 14 inches

Presets: 14 Auto Cook Options, Express Cook, Defrost, Convection, and Air Fry

Reason to buy: Inverter microwave technology for even heating, spacious interior, versatile cooking options

Reason to avoid: Higher price point, may take up more counter space than a standalone air fryer

Customer evaluations: Customers appreciate the even heating of the Panasonic HomeChef Microwave Oven, thanks to its inverter microwave technology. The air fryer function is a popular feature, with many reporting crispy and delicious results.

Galanz GTWHG12S1SA10 4-in-1 ToastWave with TotalFry 360

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Type: 4-in-1 (Convection, Microwave, Toaster Oven, Air Fryer)

Capacity: 1.2 cubic feet

Overall Dimensions: 20.1 x 18.0 x 12.7 inches

Presets: Multiple cooking modes and presets for convenient cooking

Reason to buy: The Galanz GTWHG12S1SA10 offers a variety of cooking options in one appliance, saving counter space and allowing for versatile meal preparation. The TotalFry 360 technology ensures crispy and evenly cooked food, while the sensor reheat function takes the guesswork out of reheating leftovers.

Reason to avoid: Some customers have reported issues with the LCD display and overall durability of the appliance.

Customer evaluations: The Galanz GTWHG12S1SA10 has received mixed reviews, with many customers praising its versatility and convenient features, while others have reported issues with its durability and reliability over time. Overall, it is a solid option for those looking for a multifunctional appliance.

Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fryer

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Type: 4-in-1 (Microwave, Convection, Air Fryer, Broiler)

Capacity: 1.2 cubic feet

Overall Dimensions: 14.97 x 20.44 x 11 inches

Presets: Multiple cooking modes and presets for convenient cooking

Reason to buy: The Panasonic HomeChef offers a range of cooking options in one appliance, including an air fryer and convection oven. Its inverter technology ensures even cooking and defrosting, while the easy clean interior makes for hassle-free maintenance. The FlashXpress broiler feature allows for quick and efficient broiling of food.

Reason to avoid: The appliance may be on the pricier side for some, and its smaller size may not be suitable for larger households.

Customer evaluations: The Panasonic HomeChef has received mostly positive reviews, with customers praising its versatility, cooking performance, and easy-to-use features. Some customers have reported issues with the durability of the appliance, but overall it is a reliable option for those looking for a multifunctional appliance with advanced features.

Best Air Fryer vs Deep Fryer: Which One to Choose: Trying to decide between an air fryer and a deep fryer? Read our comparison to find the best fit for your cooking needs..

1

Ninja SP101 Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven with 8-in-1 Functionality,

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  9.2
• Brand
  Ninja
• Prime

• DIGITAL CRISP CONTROL TECHNOLOGY: Precision-controlled temperature, heat source, and airflow for ultimate versatility and optimum cooking performance.
• 8-IN-1 VERSATILITY: The ultimate meal-making machine with 8-in-1 functionality: Air Fry, Air Roast, Air Broil, Bake, Bagel, Toast, Dehydrate, and Keep Warm all in one powerful, 1800-watt appliance. The height of the interior of this machine is approximately 3".  more

2

TOSHIBA ML2-EC10SA(BS) 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave with Air Fryer Microwave Combo,

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  9.0
• Brand
  Toshiba
• Prime

• 【8-in-1 Multifuntional Microwave】One microwave with multi-functions of microwave, air fry, bake(convection), broil (grill), combi., low temp., odor removal, defrost can fulfill more usages
• 【Healthy Air Fryer Microwave Combo】 Enjoy your wholesome fried food with original taste but less fat with healthy air fry  more

3

GE 3-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven | Complete With Air Fryer,

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  9.0
• Brand
  GE
• Prime

• AIR FRY MODE - Cook healthier, crispier versions of your favorite foods in less time, thanks to an air fryer built into your microwave
• CONVECTION MODE - Achieve crisp, golden brown results in this microwave oven with convection, which includes a special rack that allows air to circulate around foods for even heat distribution  more

4

Emeril Lagasse Power Air Fryer 360 Better Than Convection Ovens

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  9.0
• Brand
  Emeril Lagasse
• Prime

• Emerald 9-in-1 air fryer – replace your countertop convection oven! 5 all-over heating elements mimic a commercial-quality oven for perfect, even cooking. Most convection ovens only have 3. 12 pre-set cooking functions let you choose what you want to cook and how: custom toaster oven setting for up to 6 slices of bread, roast a whole turkey, bake desserts, air fry fried chicken, slow cooking up to 10 hours, roast vegetables, dehydrate jerky and fruit, bake crisp-crust pizza & more.
• Better than ordinary convection ovens - 360° quick cook technology and five super powerful heating elements mean your meals cook evenly on all sides in a whirlwind of super-heated air for crispy, delicious flavors. No added fats, oils, or unhealthy grease required. Get chef-quality results in one compact, 1500-watt countertop oven - 40% faster than regular ovens.  more

5

Air Fryer + Convection Toaster Oven by Cuisinart, 7-1 Oven

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  9.0
• Brand
  Cuisinart

• COOKING FUNCTIONS: This premium 1800 watt toaster oven and AirFryer, is equipped with an AirFry setting plus toast, convection bake, bake, convection broil, broil, warming feature, with a wide temperature range (Warm-450°F) .Toast Shade Selector-Timer | Nonstick Easy-Clean Interior | Whisper Quiet Operation
• CAPACITY: Large enough to toast 6-slices of bread, air fry 3-pounds of chicken wings, bake a 12-inch pizza or roast a 4-pound chicken  more

6

Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fryer, Convection Bake,

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  8.8
• Brand
  Panasonic
• Prime

• The Ultimate All-In-One Multi Oven: It’s a countertop microwave, broiler, airfryer, and convection oven all in one! Use each function alone or combined for delicious meals every time
• Healthy Air Fryer Mode: Quickly circulates hot air around food, producing crispy, brown results, no pre-heat required. Make french fries, nuggets, and more healthier and delicious  more

7

Kalorik® MAXX® Digital Air Fryer Oven, 26 Quart, 10-in-1 Countertop

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  8.8
• Brand
  Kalorik
• Prime

• COOK MEALS FASTER WHILE SAVING ENERGY — Experience ultra-fast cooking performance and prepare full meals in just a fraction of the time! Powerful Turbo MAXX Technology cooks french fries up to 22% faster, steak up to 37% faster, and chicken up to 27% faster, and saves consumers over 77% in energy than traditional ovens.
• ONE APPLIANCE TO REPLACE THE REST — This meal-making powerhouse can air fry, bake, toast, roast, rotisserie, braise, dehydrate, broil, and warm meals at the touch of a button — giving you everything you need in a single appliance.  more

8

TOSHIBA 7-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven Air Fryer Combo, Inverter, Convection,

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  8.6
• Brand
  Toshiba

• 【7-In-1 Ultimate Versatility】This multi-microwave with 10 power levels is your ultimate kitchen helper. The versatility as a microwave, air fryer, convection oven, broiler, defroster, combi cook and humidity sensor function make it your best countertop space-saver
• 【Inverter Microwave with Smart Sensor】Built-in humidity sensor intelligently adjusts power and cooking time, make sure your food is never undercooked or overcooked. TOSHIBA ORIGIN Inverter Technology allows more uniform distribution of heat in cavity, provides even cooking, reheating and defrosting, guarantee the maximum tender texture.  more

9

Toshiba 4-in-1 ML-EC42P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven, Smart Sensor, Convection, Air

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  8.6
• Brand
  Toshiba
• Prime

• 【4-in-1 Multifuntional Countertop Microwave】One microwave with multi-functions of microwave, air fry, convection, combination cooking (microwave+convection) can fulfill more usages.
• 【Healthy Air Fryer Combo】 Enjoy your wholesome fried food with original taste but less fat with healthy air fry  more

10

NUWAVE Bravo Air Fryer Oven, 12-in-1, 30QT XL Large Capacity

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  8.6
• Brand
  Nuwave
• Prime

• MAKE ADJUSTMENTS ON-THE-FLY – Want hotter temperature or need to cook it longer? Simply adjust on-the-fly any time. Fine-tune time and temperature any time in the cooking process. Bravo’s intuitive digital controls are easy to operate.
• INTUITIVE DIGITAL CONTROLS - Set cook temperatures from 50°F to 500°F adjustable in precise 5°F increments. Unlike the primitive methods that regulate temperature by turning the heater on and off, our heater never turns off while cooking.  more

11

Galanz GSWWA16S1SA10 3-in-1 SpeedWave with TotalFry 360, Microwave, Air Fryer,

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  8.0
• Brand
  Galanz

• Ultimate Cooking Versatility: Galanz 1.6 Cu. Ft, 1000W Speedwave Has 3 Appliance In One Multifunctional Appliance, Microwave Oven, Convection Oven, Air Fryer And Also Has Combi-Speed Cooking For Faster Results And Ultimate Cooking Versatility. Cook More Of Your Favorite Meals
• Totalfry 360 Technology: Air Fry With Little Or No Oil For Healthier, Crunchy Fried Favorites Like Chicken, Shrimp, Wings, And French Fries. The Easy-Clean Air Fry Kit Provides More Frying Surface Area With Better Air Circulation Compared To Traditional Air Fryers.Totalfry 360 Is Enhanced Air Fry Technology And Does Not Use Microwaves But Uses The Built-In Heating Elements  more

12

Galanz GTWHG12S1SA10 4-in-1 ToastWave with TotalFry 360, Convection, Microwave, Toaster

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  7.6
• Brand
  Galanz
• Prime

• True Convection: Heated Air Circulates Throughout The Oven As Food Spins 360°, Cooking Your Food Faster And More Evenly Without Hot Spots. You Can Even Broil And Bake Foods With Direct Heat, Such As Fish, Chicken And Fresh, Oven-Baked Goods.
• Sensor Cook & Sensor Reheat: A Built-In Humidity Sensor Ensures That Your Food Is Never Under- Or Overcooked. For Precooked Dishes, Sensor Reheat Stops Automatically When Food Is Hot And Ready To Eat.  more

Last update on 2024-10-16 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

Air Fryer vs Instant Pot: Which Is Best for Your Kitchen: Confused about whether to buy an air fryer or an instant pot? Discover the differences between these appliances and find out which one best suits your needs..

Is an air fryer healthier than a microwave?

Yes, air fryers are generally considered healthier than microwaves because they use little to no oil to cook food, resulting in meals that are lower in fat and calories. Microwaves, on the other hand, do not require oil to cook food, but they can make it less healthy by destroying nutrients.

Can I cook the same types of food in an air fryer and a microwave?

No, air fryers and microwaves have different cooking methods, which means that they are better suited for different types of food. Air fryers are great for cooking foods that would normally be fried, such as chicken wings, french fries, and onion rings. Microwaves are better for heating up leftovers, cooking vegetables, and making popcorn.

Which appliance is more versatile, an air fryer or a microwave?

It depends on your cooking needs and preferences. Air fryers are great for making crispy and delicious meals with little to no oil, but they may not be as versatile as microwaves. Microwaves, on the other hand, are great for heating up leftovers, cooking vegetables, and defrosting food quickly.

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Air Fryer Grill: Top Reviews: Looking for the best air fryer grill? Our comprehensive reviews feature top picks for any budget and cooking needs. Start your healthy cooking journey today!.

In comparing the best air fryers and microwaves on the market, it is clear that the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. Each of the appliances reviewed above offers a range of features and benefits, from versatile cooking modes to advanced technology and convenient presets. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to weigh the pros and cons and choose the appliance that best suits their lifestyle and cooking needs. Regardless of which appliance you choose, you can still enjoy healthy and delicious meals in no time!

So, why wait? Get yourself an air fryer and start cooking up a storm! For more options for your needs please see more.