Comparison: Best Air Fryer Microwave Combo Uk (Updated | Mar 24th)

Count the functions you actually need; a 4‑in‑1 model covers microwave, air‑fry, convection and combo cooking, which is enough for most families. If you want extra options like broil, grill, defrost, or low‑temp cooking, a 6‑in‑1 or 8‑in‑1 unit such as the Toshiba 8‑in‑1 provides more versatility. More functions usually mean a higher price and a slightly larger footprint, so balance convenience against budget and kitchen space.

The Toshiba OptiChef (1.3 cu ft) and the Toshiba 4‑in‑1 with a 13.6‑inch turntable can accommodate a 13‑inch pizza or a whole chicken, making them the most spacious options. The GE GCST10A1WSS provides 1.0 cu ft, which fits a standard 12‑inch pizza but may be tight for larger roasts. If you frequently cook family‑size dishes, the larger turntable models give you the most flexibility.

Higher microwave wattage (e.g., 1000 W in the Toshiba 8‑in‑1 versus 900 W in the Black+Decker) shortens cooking times and improves heating uniformity. Inverter technology, found in many Toshiba models, delivers continuous low‑power output for gentler defrosting and more even cooking without hot spots. Together, power and inverter design affect both speed and food texture, especially for delicate dishes.

Toshiba’s ChefFry Plus and 360° rapid heat circulation create a true oven‑like airflow for crispier results with little to no oil. The Black+Decker uses a dedicated air‑fry fan and offers 11 preset menus, which are great for quick snacks but may be slightly less powerful than Toshiba’s 1100‑W convection‑air system. GE’s built‑in air‑fry mode provides fast browning, though it relies on the same 1050‑W microwave source rather than a separate high‑speed fan.

Most units include a child‑lock; the Toshiba 8‑in‑1 uses a two‑step lock, while Black+Decker offers a simple press‑and‑hold lock. GE also provides a safety lock as part of its control panel, and the Midea combo includes a lock function alongside its steam safety interlocks. These features help prevent accidental activation and are especially important in households with young children.

If you want a balance of capacity, power, and versatile functions without paying for premium extras, the Toshiba 4‑in‑1 or 6‑in‑1 models are strong candidates, offering large turntables, inverter technology, and multiple cooking modes at a competitive price point. The Black+Decker 5‑in‑1 is more compact and cheaper, but it has lower wattage and fewer advanced features. Consider how often you’ll use convection, grill, and preset menus to determine the most cost‑effective choice.

Preset menus simplify cooking by automatically selecting time, power and temperature; GE lists specific presets for fries, nuggets, and more, while Toshiba models include auto‑menus for pizza, vegetables, and baked goods. Sensor cooking, featured in many Toshiba units, detects humidity and adjusts power to avoid over‑cooking, which is helpful for novices who may be unsure about exact settings. These tools reduce guesswork and improve consistency across a range of dishes.

Yes, convection circulates hot air for even browning, making it ideal for roasting meats and baking pastries, while a broil element provides high‑heat searing similar to a grill. Models like the GE GCST10A1WSS and Toshiba 6‑in‑1 include both convection and broil, allowing you to finish dishes with a crisp top layer without a separate oven. If you enjoy multi‑step recipes—such as roasting then broiling—these added functions expand what you can prepare on a single countertop appliance.