First consider the interior capacity; a larger cavity lets you fit whole chickens or 12‑inch pizzas, while a compact unit saves countertop space. Next, compare power ratings—microwave output around 900‑1100 W and air‑fry power of 1500‑1800 W affect cooking speed and crispness. Finally, look for safety and convenience features such as child‑lock, preset menus, and an intuitive control panel.

The Toshiba 8‑in‑1 offers eight cooking modes, including low‑temp and odor‑removal functions, while the GE 4‑in‑1 focuses on microwave, air‑fry, convection, and broil. Toshiba’s higher microwave output (1000 W) and larger turntable accommodate bigger dishes, whereas GE provides a dedicated broil mode for grill‑style searing. The extra modes on Toshiba add versatility but may come with a steeper learning curve.

A child‑lock prevents accidental activation, which is especially important in households with young children. Both the Toshiba 8‑in‑1 and the GE 4‑in‑1 feature a two‑step child‑lock, while the Black+Decker 5‑in‑1 uses a press‑and‑hold lock method. Choosing a model with a clear lock indicator can add peace of mind.

The Nuwave Bravo XL Pro stands out with 1800 W air‑fry power, 3× faster cooking, and 35 % crispier results, making it ideal for serious air‑fry enthusiasts. However, it is a toaster‑oven style unit rather than a traditional microwave. For a balanced microwave‑air‑fry experience, the Toshiba P05 (1100 W microwave, 1250 W input) provides strong air‑fry results with a larger cavity at a typically lower price point.

Presets simplify cooking by automatically selecting power, time, and temperature for common foods like pizza, fries, or popcorn. Models like Black+Decker and GE include 10‑plus preset menus, while the Emerson MWG1191SB offers 9 basic presets. If you value convenience over manual control, prioritize units with a broader preset library.

Interior dimensions range from about 13‑14 inches wide (Toshiba 8‑in‑1) to 16‑inch wide (Toshiba P05), influencing the size of dishes you can prepare. A larger cavity can accommodate whole chickens and 12‑inch pizzas, while smaller models are better suited for side dishes and reheating. Choose a size that matches your typical meal portions and countertop space.

Yes, the Midea 4‑in‑1 includes a dedicated steam mode with dual steam tubes for quick, nutrient‑preserving cooking, and the Toshiba 8‑in‑1 offers a low‑temp function for delicate dishes. These features are useful for health‑focused cooking, such as steaming vegetables or slow‑cooking desserts, and add extra versatility beyond standard microwave and air‑fry.

Higher‑end models like the Nuwave Bravo XL Pro and Midea tend to carry a premium price due to advanced convection fans, graphene heating technology, and extensive preset libraries, but they also promise faster cooking and longer component life. Mid‑range options such as the Toshiba 8‑in‑1 and GE 4‑in‑1 offer solid performance at a more affordable price, with reliable brand warranties. For budget‑conscious shoppers, the Black+Decker 5‑in‑1 provides essential functions at a lower cost, though it may lack some of the premium durability features.