Air fryer fever has probably reached you by now. Chances are, at least two close friends or family members are absolutely in love with their air fryers, claiming they’ve cooked everything from gnocchi to roast beef. Whether you’ve already been won over by this cooking trend or you’re still unsure about stepping into the world of air fryers, we’re here to give you some great reasons to go one step beyond—just like Madness—into the realm of home appliance combos. Welcome to the air fryer microwave.
What can you cook in a microwave?
Almost everything you can think about. The microwave is one of the most underrated home appliances, even though it can be a great ally in the kitchen. Not only because more and more features are being added to the microwaves we already know, but they’re also a much faster option when you are short on time. That also makes them a great tool for preparing healthy meals. When cooking, microwaves tend to preserve the nutrients in food better than other methods, such as boiling, thanks to their shorter cooking times. 
If you want to try out some recipes beyond the usual mug cake, we’ve got a few ideas to help you make the most of your microwave.
What is an air fryer microwave?
It’s an appliance that combines the functions of a standard microwave with an additional air fryer feature, essentially turning it into a convection oven with a twist. The key is that many of these models incorporate even more functions—a real all-in-one solution that makes life easier when it’s time to get cooking.
These features make an air fryer microwave a more practical option for everyday use compared to other appliances—but we’ll explain more about that below.
1. The air fryer microwave is ideal for small kitchens
An air fryer microwave combines the functions of several appliances: a conventional oven, an air fryer, and a standard microwave. So, if your kitchen isn’t exactly the size of Downton Abbey’s, this will save you a lot of space.
Even if you have a large kitchen, you might not want to fill every available surface with separate appliances when you can have everything in one compact unit. And the cherry on top? These models usually have sleek, modern designs that fit seamlessly into any kitchen decor.
2. Perfect for one, two… or whoever shows up
This type of microwave is great for adjusting portions to your daily needs and cravings. Let’s be honest—turning on the oven on a Monday night just to make some nuggets, french fries, or a piece of fish feels like too much effort in terms of time, energy use, and motivation. But popping everything into the microwave and having dinner ready in minutes? That’s a much more appealing option. It’s quicker, portion-friendly, and by the time you’re out of the shower, your meal (or even tomorrow’s lunch) is ready.
It’s also a great backup appliance when cooking for a crowd. If you love hosting—whether it’s family, friends, or half the neighbourhood—this microwave is a fantastic extra. Some models even offer slow-cooking functions, like the MicroFry, so you can prepare everything from tempura to homemade yoghurt.
3. Faster than an oven
Fact: microwaves cook food much faster than an oven. If you don’t have a lazy Sunday morning to dedicate to cooking—especially with the daily rush—an air fryer microwave is a versatile, time-saving solution. Just because it cooks faster doesn’t mean it’s any less healthy. As we mentioned earlier, shorter cooking times help food retain more nutrients. Plus, the air fryer function significantly cuts down on oil use—something to keep in mind.
If you’re always short on time for cooking, an air fryer microwave can easily save you half an hour per meal. Just pop in the ingredients, select your cooking function, and let it do the rest.
Bonus: the defrost function
Forgot to take dinner out of the freezer? Classic mistake. With everything we have on our minds, it happens to the best of us. Check out the defrosting options in an air fryer microwave—you might be pleasantly surprised. For instance, the MicroFryer offers a two-stage cooking function, allowing you to place a frozen piece of meat inside and have it fully cooked at the touch of a button.
4. Easier to clean
An air fryer microwave is much easier to clean after daily use. Why?
- First, because you don’t have to climb halfway inside it like you would with a full-sized oven. The smaller space means less surface to clean.
- It takes less time and effort, so you’re more likely to clean it regularly.
- Plus, it is not the same to clean one appliance as cleaning an oven, an air fryer, and a microwave separately.
And for the next level of convenience, some models—like the MicroFryer—even feature a self-cleaning system. All it takes is a cup of water to keep it fresh. Want more? Some models even include a deodorising function, meaning your kitchen—or entire house—won’t smell like fish for hours after cooking.
5. More versatility for your recipes
The combination of microwave and air fryer functions means you can prepare a wider variety of meals with a crispy finish. Craving french fries? Make a healthier version anytime, practically oil-free. Other ideas? You can bake, steam, poach, grill, and more—all in one appliance. Most of us don’t take full advantage of everything a microwave can do.
6. An air fryer microwave is a more budget-friendly option
Investing in one appliance instead of several? That’s an easy win. If you want the benefits of an oven, love the idea of air frying, and appreciate the versatility of a microwave, this could be a smart purchase. It’s a much lower investment compared to buying separate appliances, and the advantages are significant.
Is an air fryer microwave the right choice for you? That depends entirely on your lifestyle. Think about your daily routine, cooking habits, and even your kitchen space. If you’re looking to streamline your appliances and make cooking easier, it could be a great fit. Or maybe you’re simply ready for a change. If you usually eat out but want to start preparing more homemade meals, an appliance like this could be just what you need. After all, enjoying cooking again—and experimenting with new recipes—makes life just that little bit better.