Declutter Your Countertop: Our Top Recommendations for a Combination Microwave with Air Fryer in 2026
As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to help you navigate the crowded market of kitchen appliances. Many of us in the UK, particularly those in flats or homes with smaller kitchens, face the constant challenge of limited countertop space. Juggling a microwave, an oven and the increasingly popular air fryer can feel like a game of kitchen Tetris.
A combination microwave with air fryer offers a practical solution, merging several essential appliances into a single, space-saving unit. This guide is designed to help you understand what to look for in a countertop multi-function oven and to highlight a few models that stand out for their features and versatility.
Choosing the Right Air Fryer Microwave Combo: A Quick Guide
Before diving into specific products, consider these key factors to ensure you select an appliance that fits your lifestyle and kitchen.
1. Capacity vs. Footprint
The internal capacity, measured in litres, determines how much food you can cook at once. A 23-26 litre model is generally sufficient for individuals or small families, while larger households might benefit from a 30+ litre appliance. It is crucial to balance this internal space with the external dimensions. Measure your available countertop area, ensuring you leave adequate clearance for ventilation (typically 10-20cm around the sides and top) as specified by the manufacturer.
2. Core Functions: More Than Just Microwaving
The term 'combination' can mean different things. A basic model might just be a microwave and air fryer combo. However, more advanced units are true 5-in-1 kitchen appliances, often including:
- Convection Oven: Uses a fan to circulate hot air, allowing for baking and roasting just like a conventional oven.
- Grill: A dedicated heating element at the top of the cavity for browning, crisping and grilling.
- Combination Cooking: Blends microwave power with convection or grilling to cook food faster while still achieving a browned, crispy finish.
A combi microwave with grill and convection offers the most versatility, effectively replacing multiple separate appliances.
3. Ease of Use and Smart Features
Consider how you prefer to interact with your appliances. A digital air fryer microwave with clear pre-set programmes for things like pizza, vegetables or defrosting can simplify daily cooking. For those who enjoy more control and connectivity, a smart microwave oven with Wi-Fi and a companion app allows you to monitor cooking, find recipes and even control the appliance remotely.
Our Top Recommendations for 2026
Here are a few combination microwave ovens that offer a compelling blend of functionality, design and convenience.
DAEWOO Combination Microwave - 26L, 5-in-1
Why It Stands Out: The DAEWOO SDA2618GE is a highly versatile unit that packs five distinct functions into a compact frame. Its air fryer mode uses rapid air technology to deliver crispy results with less oil, and its 28 pre-set cooking programmes remove the guesswork from meal preparation.
Pros:
- 5-in-1 functionality: Microwave, air fryer, oven, reheat and defrost.
- Generous capacity: The 26L interior is suitable for family-sized portions.
- Energy-conscious: Features an Eco mode and is designed to be more energy-efficient than a conventional oven.
- User-friendly: An LED display and simple controls make it easy to operate.
Who is it for? This is an excellent all-rounder for busy households or anyone seeking maximum functionality without sacrificing too much countertop space. The extensive pre-sets make it ideal for those who value convenience.
Samsung 32L Combination Microwave with Smart Wifi
Why It Stands Out: With its large 32-litre capacity and smart connectivity, the Samsung MC32DG7646CKE3 is built for the modern, connected family. It combines high-performance cooking functions—including air fry, convection and a wide grill—with the convenience of app-based control for recipes and monitoring.
Pros:
- Large 32L capacity: Perfect for cooking larger dishes and family meals.
- Smart Wi-Fi connectivity: Offers app-based control and access to guided recipes.
- Durable and easy to clean: The ceramic enamel interior is scratch-resistant and antibacterial.
- Comprehensive cooking: A true air fryer microwave oven with powerful convection and grill functions.
Who is it for? Families or enthusiastic home cooks who need a larger capacity and appreciate the integration of smart technology into their kitchen routine.
Toshiba 23L Combination Digital Air Fryer Microwave
Why It Stands Out: The Toshiba MW3-SAC23SF(MB) proves that a smaller footprint doesn't have to mean compromised performance. This 23L model offers full 3-in-1 functionality (microwave, grill, convection) and smart app control, all wrapped in a sleek, frameless mirror black design that adds a modern touch to any kitchen.
Pros:
- Compact and stylish: The 23L size is ideal for smaller kitchens, and the mirror finish is visually appealing.
- Powerful grilling: Features a 1000W grill for excellent browning and crisping.
- Smart control: Includes app connectivity for remote operation and monitoring.
- Precise cooking: Offers 10 auto-menus and 5 power levels for tailored results.
Who is it for? Individuals, couples, or small families living in flats or homes where space is at a premium. It's perfect for those who want advanced cooking functions and smart features in a compact, design-forward package.
Looking for Other Options?
If the models above aren't quite what you're looking for, or if your primary need is for grilling and browning capabilities, you may want to explore a wider selection.
️ Discover more models in our microwave with grill category.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is a combination microwave with an air fryer worth it? For many households, yes. It consolidates multiple appliances into one, saving significant countertop space. It also offers greater cooking versatility than a standard microwave, allowing you to bake, roast, grill and achieve crispy, "fried" textures with less oil, all from a single machine.
2. Can you use metal in an air fryer microwave combo? This depends on the function. You must never use metal trays or foil when using the microwave-only or combination-microwave modes, as it can cause sparks and damage the appliance. However, for air fry, grill or convection-only modes, metal racks and trays are often required and typically supplied with the unit. Always consult your appliance's user manual for specific instructions.
3. How does an air fryer microwave work? In air fry mode, the appliance uses a combination of a top heating element (similar to a grill) and a high-speed fan. This fan circulates hot air rapidly around the food, creating a crisp, golden-brown exterior that mimics the results of deep-frying but with a fraction of the oil. This is distinct from the microwave function, which uses microwaves to heat the water molecules inside the food.