Most of us love a benchtop appliance that multi-tasks – one that can help us create a variety of meals while limiting the amount of gadgets we have cluttering up our benches and cupboards.
But they’re only worth buying if they actually do a good job. While CHOICE experts are generally big fans of multi-cookers, for example, when we put wall ovens with an air fryer functions through their paces we got mixed results.
But what about microwaves that promise the benefits of air-frying?
We’ll explain what they are and how they’re different to regular air fryers.
Plus, for CHOICE members only, we’ll reveal the top scoring convection microwaves with air-frying capabilities.
If you want to find out which convection microwaves that can air fry come out on top, join CHOICE to get instant access to all of our expert, independent reviews.
If you’ve been eyeing off an air fryer with its handy crisping capabilities but you also appreciate the reheating and cooking power of a microwave, then a convection microwave that combines the two could be the space-saving answer you’re looking for.
CHOICE kitchen expert Fiona Mair says: “We’re seeing more and more convection microwave models on the market that double as air fryers.”
“In addition to their standard functions, they have an air fryer mode that can be used to brown, crisp and reheat frozen foods.”
If you choose a convection microwave over an air fryer, you’ll have a microwave, grill, air fryer and oven all in one
CHOICE kitchen expert Fiona Mair
Many of these appliances will also come with air fryer-style accessories such as racks or an air fryer basket, which you’ll need to use in order to get the most out of this function.
Because they are smaller than conventional ovens, convection microwave ovens are ideal for smaller spaces, such as kitchenettes, caravans, campervans, holiday homes and granny flats.
They would also suit smaller households, people cooking smaller quantities of food, or large families that need extra oven space.
“If you choose a convection microwave over an air fryer, you’ll have a microwave, grill, air fryer and oven all in one, so it’s very versatile,” Fiona says.
The main difference between a regular air fryer and a convection microwave is that an air fryer has the element and fan positioned on the top of the unit whereas with a convection microwave, they’re on the back wall.
Convection microwaves can cook similar foods to air fryers, but they have a slightly larger capacity than many standard single-compartment air fryers so you can cook larger quantities in one go.
“They do take up a bit more bench space and you will need a dedicated permanent spot with good ventilation around it,” says Fiona.
“Running costs may also be slightly higher than with an air fryer, but why have more appliances in your kitchen than you need?”
Although convection microwaves can be slightly more expensive to buy than air fryers, there are options to suit different budgets.
You can pick up an air fryer for under $100 but the top-of-the-range models cost around $500 or more.
The cheapest convection microwave with air fryer function that we’ve tested is an Kmart model for $199, while other models go all the way up to $1799.
As with many appliances we review, our testing of convection microwaves has found that spending more doesn’t necessarily always get you the best performing product, so be sure to check our reviews before you buy.
What are the best convection microwaves with air-fryer functionality?
The sheer range of microwaves on the market can make it hard to pick the right one – but that’s where we come in.
We independently test and review dozens of kitchen appliances each year in our onsite labs, and our experts know exactly what to look for to help you find the best product.
Only members can access our detailed microwaves testing data. If you’re not yet a member, join CHOICE to get instant access to all of our expert, independent reviews.
Or log in to unlock this article and find out which convection microwaves with air fryer functionality we rate as the pick of the bunch.
Pru Engel is the Audience and Engagement editor at CHOICE. Her job is to ensure as many Australians as possible know about the great work we do at CHOICE.
She works closely with our testers and experts to find the gems of information in our data and research that will resonate with Australian consumers and help them make the best decisions, whether they're purchasing an air fryer, looking for a new mattress or trying to find the cheapest car insurance. She also helps to drive meaningful change for consumers by collaborating with our Campaigns team on content covering issues such as grocery pricing, product safety and scams.
Prior to CHOICE, Pru worked as an editor at many of Australia's leading food and lifestyle titles.
Pru has a Bachelor of Arts in Communication (Journalism) from the University of Technology, Sydney.
Find Pru on LinkedIn.
Pru Engel is the Audience and Engagement editor at CHOICE. Her job is to ensure as many Australians as possible know about the great work we do at CHOICE.
She works closely with our testers and experts to find the gems of information in our data and research that will resonate with Australian consumers and help them make the best decisions, whether they're purchasing an air fryer, looking for a new mattress or trying to find the cheapest car insurance. She also helps to drive meaningful change for consumers by collaborating with our Campaigns team on content covering issues such as grocery pricing, product safety and scams.
Prior to CHOICE, Pru worked as an editor at many of Australia's leading food and lifestyle titles.
Pru has a Bachelor of Arts in Communication (Journalism) from the University of Technology, Sydney.
Find Pru on LinkedIn.
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