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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesA microwave air fryer combo uses two different heating methods: microwaves heat food in microwave mode, while a heating element and fan circulate hot air in air-fry mode. The basket helps air reach the food’s underside and sides. Some models also offer grill, convection or combined programs, but whether modes work together—and which accessories to use—depends on the model.
What happens in microwave mode?
In microwave mode, electromagnetic waves heat food. The appliance is using its microwave system, rather than the air-fry heating element and fan, to cook. For a basic explanation of microwave cooking, see Whirlpool’s guide to how microwaves work.
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What happens in air-fry mode?
In air-fry mode, a heating element warms the air and a fan moves it around the food. Some models combine the fan-driven hot air with grill heat. Whirlpool describes one of its manual air-fry modes as forced air combined with the grill; its phrase “deep-fried effect” is the manufacturer’s description, not proof that results are identical to deep frying.
Air frying is therefore a distinct mode, not simply microwave cooking with a different name. Whether a particular program uses only the air-fry system or combines it with microwave energy depends on the appliance and selected setting. Check the model’s manual or program descriptions rather than assuming the modes run together.
#1 Best Overall
- 5-in-1 Microwave Oven: Use this essential countertop appliance for cooking in five functions: microwave, air fryer, combi (grill/convection), bake, and roast for all of your culinary needs.
- 10 Cooking Levels: Featuring a 900-watt output, this compact microwave has 7 auto menus, including settings for Beverage, Fresh/Frozen Vegetables, Oatmeal, Potato, Popcorn, and Frozen Pizza.
- Air Fry Presets: This small-but-mighty microwave has 11 preset air fry menus, including for cooking frozen French fries, steak fries, squid rings, chicken nuggets/wings/legs, fish sticks/fillets, cheese sticks, vegetables, and spring rolls with an easy-to-use operation.
- Speedy Cooking: Directly press the start button to cook food at 100% power for 30 seconds and press again for an additional 30 seconds.
- Child-Lock Setting: Press the stop button for 3 seconds to lock the control panel to keep little hands from clicking buttons on the appliance.
What do convection and combination modes do?
Some combos offer convection or grill modes in addition to microwave and air fry. In convection cooking, a heating element warms air moved by a fan; a Whirlpool manual describes its convection system as an element that heats in conjunction with the convection fan. Certain programs combine heating systems—for example, Whirlpool describes a countertop model with Combi Grill, which combines convection and traditional microwave technology, and Combi Bake, which combines microwave and convection. Panasonic’s UK and Ireland NN-CD88 listing includes microwave, quartz grill, convection, air fry and combination cooking.
These are examples from particular products, not a standard feature set. Read the feature list for the exact model and region: “combination” can refer to different pairings, and not every combo offers every mode.
Rank #2
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, please open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- 8-in-1 Multifunctional 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.
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimension (WxDxH): 20.6*16.4*11.8 inches, 12.4-inch position memory turntable
- Compact Size but Large Capacity & Powerful: Small Footprint as Kitchen Essential, 12.4inch removable turntable can fit a whole roasted chicken, 12 inch pizza and 8*4 inch casserole, offers the perfect balance of size and convenience.
Why does the air-fry basket matter?
A perforated basket or raised rack allows circulating hot air to reach more of the food, including its underside. That airflow supports browning and crisping. The included accessories and their placement vary by appliance; a basket intended for one model may not fit or be approved for another. Use the manual to identify the correct accessory and confirm compatibility before buying a replacement.
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- Check the manual for your model. Follow its directions for the air-fry preset, temperature, cooking time, cookware and accessory arrangement.
- Position the basket as directed. Whirlpool’s instructions for the model covered by its support page say to center the basket on the turntable and ensure it does not touch the cavity wall. Other models may specify different placement.
- Use only the settings specified for that appliance. Whirlpool gives a default manual air-fry setting of 425°F (218°C), adjustable from 400–450°F (204–232°C), for the model covered by its instructions. These are not universal settings.
- Handle hot parts with care. The basket, cavity, door and tray can become hot. Whirlpool advises using mitts to handle the basket.
For the cited model’s full directions, see Whirlpool Product Help: Using Air Fry Mode.
Rank #3
- Multi functionality: BAKE, ROAST, MICROWAVE, CONVECTION OVEN
- 5 ONE TOUCH COOK MENUS: POTATO, POPCORN, BEVERAGE, REHEAT, FROZEN DINNER
- Air fryer: Up to 70% less fat than traditional frying methods
- SPECIAL PROGRAM: DEFROST/TIME/WEIGHT; 1000W power
- 10 POWER LEVELS
Examples of model-specific specifications
Specifications illustrate why it is important to compare named products rather than assume a category-wide figure. These examples are sold in different markets and are not a direct performance comparison.
| Model and market | Documented specifications | What the figures describe |
|---|---|---|
| Panasonic NN-CD88, UK and Ireland | 34 L capacity; 1000 W inverter microwave power; 1300 W quartz grill; air-fry range of 180–220°C | Specifications listed for this model on Panasonic’s UK and Ireland product page, accessed in 2026. |
| Whirlpool WMCS5522RB | 1.0 cu. ft. capacity | Capacity listed on Whirlpool’s product page; the cited page also describes its model’s combination modes. |
See the Panasonic NN-CD88 product page and the Whirlpool WMCS5522RB product page for their respective listings.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Balanced capacity. Powerful performance: With a versatile 1.0 cu. ft. capacity and 1,050 Watts of cooking power, this microwave delivers fast, even results for family favorites and everyday meals. Measures: 13.98" W x 9.49" H x 13.23" D
- Air Fry: The built-in microwave air fryer is a healthier way to deliver crispy, golden results without a separate appliance—a stainless steel crisper pan is included to help you get the most from every air fry session
- Convection Cooking: This convection microwave oven countertop unit uses a wire rack to let hot air circulate evenly around food, producing consistent browning and thorough cooking for everyday meals and smaller baked goods
- Broil: When you have a microwave with a broiler right inside, you can achieve the same effect you do with grill racks, radiating heat to sear or caramelize any food to perfection
- Trusted GE Performance: From quick breakfasts to late-night snacks, this GE countertop microwave delivers the reliable performance, user-friendly controls, and everyday convenience that have made GE a trusted name in kitchens for generations
Rank #4
- 4-in-1 Multifunctional Countertop Microwave One microwave with multi-functions of microwave, air fry, convection, combination cooking (microwave plus convection) can fulfill more usages
- Healthy Air Fryer Combo Enjoy your wholesome fried food with original taste but less fat with healthy air fry
- One Kitchen Appliance, Better Texture Combines microwave and convection cooking in one appliance, with auto bake, defrosting and auto roast menus. Also with pre-programmed sensor menu for optimum result of popular foods like frozen pizza, vegetables and more
- Large Capacity for a Family Size 13.6 inch removable turntable can fit a whole roasted chicken, 12-inch pizza
- Stylish Appearance: Stainless steel finish (color of door frame is stainless steel, enclosure is black) with easy to clean stainless steel interior
What to compare when choosing a combo
- Modes: Check whether the model has microwave, air fry, convection, grill and the specific combined programs you want.
- Accessories: Confirm what comes in the box and whether a replacement basket is compatible with the exact model.
- Size and installation: Compare cavity capacity and whether the appliance is countertop or another installation type.
- Market: Specifications and availability can differ by country or region, even when model names look similar.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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