A microwave‑air‑fry combo, like the GE 4‑in‑1 or Toshiba ML2, saves countertop space and lets you switch between quick reheating and crisping without moving dishes. Separate air‑fryer ovens usually offer higher airflow and larger cooking volumes, which can produce more consistent texture on bigger batches. Consider how often you need each function and how much kitchen real‑estate you have before deciding.

The Black+Decker 5‑in‑1 microwave and the Chefman Multifunctional Air Fryer+Rotisserie both list five to six distinct modes, including microwave, air fry, bake, roast, and rotisserie. The Ninja DZ201 Foodi stands out with dual‑zone independent baskets and six programs, while the GE 4‑in‑1 adds broil and convection. Look for the appliance that matches the specific techniques you plan to use most often.

Higher wattage generally means faster heat buildup and more even airflow, which translates to crispier results; the Toshiba ML2 delivers 1100 W of microwave power and 1250 W input, while the Black+Decker offers 900 W. For dedicated air fryers, wattage is less emphasized, but models like the Cosori TurboBlaze use a 3600 RPM fan and can reach 450 °F for rapid cooking. Choose a unit with at least 900 W if you want a microwave‑air‑fry combo that doesn’t compromise on speed.

If you need to fit a whole chicken or a 12‑inch pizza, aim for a 1.3‑cubic‑foot microwave like the Toshiba ML2 or a 12‑quart air‑fryer oven such as the Chefman 12‑Quart model. The Emeril Lagasse French‑door toaster oven offers a massive 26‑quart space, suitable for larger gatherings. Smaller units, like the Ninja Crispi PowerPod, are great for single‑serve meals but may require multiple batches for family‑size dishes.

Child‑lock mechanisms, found on the GE 4‑in‑1 and Black+Decker models, prevent accidental activation and add peace of mind in homes with young children. While they add a modest price premium, the safety benefit often outweighs the cost, especially for busy families. If your household doesn’t have children, you can prioritize other features such as cooking presets or larger capacity.

Presets simplify cooking by automatically setting time, temperature, and power levels for common foods; the GE 4‑in‑1 includes fries and nuggets, while the Black+Decker offers 11 air‑fry presets. These programs reduce guesswork and improve consistency, especially for beginners. However, experienced cooks may prefer manual control for fine‑tuning recipes.

The GE 4‑in‑1 Countertop Convection Microwave balances a solid 1050 W microwave, air‑fry, convection, and broil functions at a competitive price point, making it a strong value proposition. The Black+Decker 5‑in‑1 also offers versatility with a lower wattage but includes many preset menus. If you prioritize larger cooking volume, the Toshiba ML2’s 1.3‑cubic‑foot cavity provides extra space without a steep price increase.

Dual‑zone models like the Ninja DZ201 let you cook two different foods simultaneously, saving time and eliminating the need for back‑to‑back batches, which can be valuable for busy families. The added complexity and higher price are offset by the convenience of finishing multiple dishes at once. If you rarely cook multiple items together, a single‑basket air fryer may be more cost‑effective.