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The best-supported U.S. countertop pick in the available product and test coverage is Panasonic’s HomeCHEF NN-CD87KS: it combines microwave, air-fry, convection-bake and broil modes, and includes an air-fry basket, wire rack and enamel tray. Good Housekeeping named the HomeChef its overall pick after evaluating nine microwave air-fryer combos; that is the publication’s judgment, not a universal ranking. The right choice still depends on your country, counter space, preferred cooking modes and the exact model configuration.
What to check before choosing a microwave that can air-fry
A microwave air-fryer combo can replace two appliances on the counter, but it does not eliminate the need to measure the space or store accessories. Start with the features you will actually use, then check capacity, exterior dimensions, ventilation clearance and the included cooking pieces.
- Dedicated air-fry mode: Confirm it is listed for the exact model. A combination microwave may offer convection or a grill without a separate air-fry function.
- Cooking modes: Compare air-fry, convection, broil or grill, microwave, and any modes that combine microwave power with another cooking method. “Four-in-one” does not mean every brand combines the same functions.
- Fit: Check both interior capacity and exterior measurements. Capacity alone does not tell you whether a dish or the food you cook will fit.
- Ventilation: Leave the manufacturer’s specified clearance around the appliance and follow its manual for installation.
- Accessories and storage: Verify whether the basket, rack and tray you need are included, and consider where they will go when not in use.
- Market and configuration: Confirm the country-specific model, voltage, SKU, stock, warranty and accessory compatibility. Similar names can refer to different regional products or versions.
Best-supported U.S. countertop pick: Panasonic HomeCHEF NN-CD87KS
Panasonic lists the NN-CD87KS as a 1.2 cu. ft., 1000 W countertop multi-oven. Its modes include inverter microwave, convection bake, air fry and broil, plus broil with microwave and convection with microwave. The package includes an air-fry basket, wire rack and enamel tray. See Panasonic’s NN-CD87KS product page for the manufacturer’s specifications and support information.
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The published exterior dimensions are 13.5 × 22 × 17.8 inches (H × W × D). Panasonic specifies 6 inches of clearance above, 4 inches behind and 2 inches on each side for airflow; follow the manual for final installation requirements. Those clearances matter when comparing it with the available counter space, not just the appliance’s footprint.
#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.
Good Housekeeping’s roundup, updated September 29, 2026, names Panasonic HomeChef its best overall choice. The publication says its lab tested nine combos and reports a well-shaped 9-inch cake and crispy chicken wings in its Panasonic evaluation. These are Good Housekeeping’s test observations, not independent results for every kitchen or a claim of testing here. It also notes that the multiple accessories need storage. Read Good Housekeeping’s test coverage for its methodology and current picks.
Check the exact HomeCHEF version before buying: Panasonic’s comparison page lists standard and Connect versions, both with 1.2 cu. ft. capacity and 1000 W output, while app control is indicated only for the Connect version. Do not assume that every HomeCHEF SKU has app features. Panasonic also says the broil function can toast bread on one side and that the appliance is not intended to replace a toaster. Its product FAQ describes a built-in cooling cycle intended to protect interior components and support long-term durability. Compare Panasonic HomeCHEF versions.
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.
Regional alternatives are not interchangeable models
These examples illustrate why country and exact model number matter. Their capacities and specifications describe different market models; they are not evidence that each is available or suitable in every country.
| Model and market | Published capacity and power | Cooking features | Size and included accessories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Panasonic NN-CD88, UK and Ireland | 34 L; 1000 W inverter microwave | Seven microwave power levels; 1300 W quartz grill; convection with a 40°C setting and a 100–220°C cooking range; air fry at 180–220°C; five combi cooking options | 343 × 560 × 450 mm (H × W × D); 18 kg; air-fry basket, wire rack and enamel tray included |
| Toshiba MV-TC26TF(BK), Singapore | 26 L; microwave wattage not stated on the cited product page | Microwave, grill and convection; “Health Air Fry” combines grill and hot-air circulation | Dimensions and included accessories not stated on the cited product page |
Panasonic’s UK and Ireland specifications are for the NN-CD88, not the U.S. NN-CD87KS. Toshiba’s Singapore page describes the MV-TC26TF(BK); confirm local voltage, stock and the exact SKU before considering it outside Singapore.
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
Other models mentioned in current editorial coverage
Good Housekeeping also identifies a GE 4-in-1 as its best-value pick, a Toshiba 7-in-1 as most versatile, and a KitchenAid over-the-range convection microwave for that installation type. Those labels are the publication’s categories, not a direct claim that the models are interchangeable with the Panasonic countertop unit. Consult the outlet’s current roundup for exact model details before comparing them.
Tom’s Guide’s 2026 microwave guide discusses IKEA GÅTEBO as a 0.9 cu. ft., 900 W appliance with air fry, microwave, convection and assisted cooking, and reports its own experience crisping fries and a chicken skewer. The guide says the product sold out after release, so check current availability rather than assuming it can be purchased. See Tom’s Guide’s 2026 microwave guide.
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
How to make the final choice
- Set your market first. Shop for a model sold for your country and confirm its voltage, warranty and exact SKU.
- Measure the location. Compare the appliance’s exterior dimensions with your usable counter space, then add the manufacturer’s required ventilation clearances.
- Match capacity to your usual food and cookware. Check the dimensions of dishes and portions you expect to cook; a capacity figure by itself does not guarantee a particular dish will fit.
- Compare the modes you need. Make sure air fry is explicitly listed, then check whether you also want convection, grill or broil, and microwave-combination cooking.
- Check what comes in the box. Confirm the basket, racks and trays included with the exact package, and account for storage space.
- Verify live purchase details. Price and inventory can change, so check current retailer availability, warranty terms and accessory compatibility before ordering.
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.
