Air Fryer Toaster Oven vs Microwave: Which One Is The Best?

Choosing the right kitchen appliance can make a big difference in your cooking experience. In this article, I will compare air fryer toaster ovens and microwaves to help you determine which one is better match for your kitchen.We’ll look at their features, cooking processes, size and capacity, and more. Read on!

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Key Takeaways:

Air fryer toaster ovens and microwaves have different heating processes, resulting in varying cooking times.
Air fryer toaster ovens and microwaves are similar in size. Their capacity is similar, so both can accommodate more-or-less similar amounts of food.
Air fryer oaster ovens offer more cooking features like toasting, baking, and broiling, while microwaves are perfect for reheating dishes and foods with a high water content.
Both appliances require regular cleaning, but air fryer toaster ovens have more components to clean.
Air fryer toaster ovens cannot completely replace microwaves as they cook slower and are best for browning and crisping foods with low water content.

Now that we understand the basics, let’s take a closer look into each aspect to help you make the right choice for your kitchen.

Understanding The Heating Process

When it comes to cooking appliances, the heating process is a fundamental factor to consider. Air fryer toaster ovens and microwaves rely on different heating methods, which can impact cooking time and the final result. Let’s take a closer look at the heating process of both appliances.

Heating Process: Air Fryer Toaster Oven

Air fryer toaster ovens use the convection oven principle of a heating element and a fan circulatin hot air around the food. This results in even cooking. The preheating time for air fryer toaster ovens is relatively quick, allowing you to start cooking almost immediately.Due to the steady cooking process of air fryer toaster ovens, they are ideal for achieving crispy and browned exteriors. The circulating hot air helps to create a delicious texture and enhance the flavors of your favorite dishes.

Heating Process: Microwave

Microwaves use electromagnetic waves to generate heat. These waves penetrate food and cause its molecules to vibrate, generating heat from the inside out. This process allows microwaves to cook food quickly, without the need for preheating.Due to the fast cooking process of microwaves, they are great for reheating leftovers or cooking dishes with high water content. However, the rapid cooking can result in soggy or unevenly heated food, making it less suitable for achieving crispy or browned exteriors.

Comparing Cooking Time

When it comes to cooking time, microwaves generally offer quicker results compared to air fryer toaster ovens. The combination of the electromagnetic waves and the absence of preheating allows microwaves to cook food in less time.On the other hand, air fryer toaster ovens require a few minutes of preheating and a slower cooking process, which can take slightly longer. However, the result is often worth the wait, with crispy and evenly cooked dishes that are difficult to achieve with a microwave.

Size & Capacity Comparison

Air fryer toaster ovens generally have similar dimensions and capacity compared to microwaves. Still, they are ideal for smaller batches of food, such as toasting bread, cooking baked goods, or reheating leftovers. Plates don’t really fit well in this appliance.Microwaves however, can easily accommodate dinner plates or large dishes, making them suitable for cooking slightly larger meals. The size and capacity of each appliance will depend on the specific model you choose.

Appliance	Size	Capacity
Air Fryer Toaster Oven	Compact and space-saving	Small to medium
Microwave	Varying sizes available	Medium to large

Air fryer toaster ovens have a compact and space-saving design, making them suitable for smaller kitchens or countertops with limited space. They are perfect for individuals or small families who primarily need to cook small to medium portions of food.Microwaves offer a somewhat wider range of sizes to choose from, catering to different kitchen layouts and cooking needs. They are especially convenient for medium to larger households.Take into account your specific cooking requirements and the available space in your kitchen when deciding between an air fryer toaster oven and a microwave. Do keep in mind that microwaves and air fryer toaster ovens compliment each other in several ways.Consider the types of food you typically cook, the portion sizes you need, and the countertop or cabinet space you have available. By evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your cooking habits and kitchen setup.

Features & Uses

Both two appliances offer distinct advantages. Let’s take a closer look at how each appliance can enhance your cooking experience:

Features Of Air Fryer Toaster Ovens

Air fryer toaster ovens are versatile countertop appliances that can perform a range of cooking tasks. Some common features include:

Toasting: Air fryer toaster ovens excel at toasting bread and bagels, giving you a crispy and evenly browned result.
Baking & Broiling: These appliances can also be used for baking cookies, cakes, and even meat. The adjustable temperature settings allow you to achieve the desired level of browning and doneness.
Roasting: Roasting in an air fryer toaster oven allows for the creation of delicious, crispy exteriors while preserving the natural flavors and juiciness of the food. Whether those are vegetables or succulent roasted meats, the result is cooked evenly and retains its moisture.
Defrosting: Many air fryer toaster ovens have a defrost function, which is convenient for quickly defrosting frozen foods without the risk of overcooking.
Air Frying: Air fry toaster ovens, like the KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven, offer air frying functionality. This allows you to cook foods with a crispy texture using a minimal amount of oil.
Dehydrating: Certain air fryer toaster ovens come with dehydrating capabilities, which are perfect for making homemade dried fruits, jerky, or crispy kale chips.

Features Of Microwaves

Microwaves are known for their convenience and speed. Here are some common uses of microwaves:

Reheating: Microwaves are great for quickly reheating leftovers, beverages, and precooked meals. They evenly distribute heat, ensuring that your food is heated through.
Defrosting: Microwaves have a defrost function that allows you to defrost frozen foods rapidly. This can be especially useful when you need to thaw meat straight from the freezer or other ingredients quickly for a recipe.
Quick Cooking: Microwaves excel at cooking foods with high water content, such as soups, steamed vegetables. Many feature pre-programmed settings for making popcorn, potatoes, or frozen dinners. They can significantly reduce cooking time compared to traditional stove methods.

Whether you prefer the versatility of an air fryer toaster oven or the speed and convenience of a microwave, both appliances have their own unique features and uses.Consider your cooking needs and the types of food you regularly prepare to determine which appliance will best suit you.

	Air Fryer Toaster Oven	Microwave
Features	Toasting, baking, broiling, roasting, air frying, dehydrating	Reheating, cooking, defrosting
Uses	Crispy and browned foods, small dishes, baking, toasting	Quick reheating, cooking with high water content, defrosting
Suitable For	Those who want versatility and crispy results	Those who value convenience and quick cooking

Maintenance & Installation

When it comes to maintaining and installing kitchen appliances, both air fryer toaster ovens and microwaves require some attention. Let’s take a closer look at how maintenance and installation differ for these two types of appliances.

Maintenance

Maintaining an airfryer toaster oven involves cleaning various components such as wire racks and crumb catchers. Some models may also feature a removable drip tray for easier cleaning.These accessories can accumulate food particles and grease over time, so regular cleaning is important to keep your toaster oven in top condition.Microwaves, on the other hand, often come with steam-clean functions that help loosen food splatters and make wiping the interior easier.Many microwaves have removable trays that can be washed in the sink or dishwasher. Regularly check and clean the microwave’s filters to ensure proper ventilation and prevent the buildup of odors.

Installation

Air fryer toaster ovens are typically countertop appliances.

You can simply place them on your kitchen counter and plug them into a power source.
They are relatively easy to set up and can be moved around as needed.

Microwaves, on the other hand, offer more installation options.

You can choose from countertop models that sit on a flat surface, built-in models that are installed into your kitchen cabinetry, or over-the-range models that replace your existing range hood.
Built-in and over-the-range microwaves require professional installation, ensuring they are properly secured and vented.

	Air Fryer Toaster Oven	Microwave
Maintenance	Cleaning wire racks and crumb catchers	Steam-clean function and removable trays
Installation	Countertop appliance	Countertop, built-in, or over-the-range options

Maintenance and installation differ between air fryer toaster ovens and microwaves. Consider your cleaning preferences and kitchen layout when deciding which appliance is right for you.

Can A Toaster Oven Replace A Microwave?

While both appliances have their advantages, it’s required to understand the capabilities and limitations of each before deciding whether an air fryer toaster oven can truly replace a microwave in your kitchen.

Microwaves excel at quick reheating and cooking with high water content. They are perfect for heating up leftovers, reheating soups and stews, or cooking microwaveable meals.
Air fryer toaster ovens are known for their ability to brown and crisp foods with low water content. They are great for toasting bread, baking cookies, or roasting meats and vegetables.

While a toaster oven air fryer combo can certainly perform many of the same cooking tasks as a microwave, it cannot completely replace it.

Microwaves are faster at cooking and reheating, and they are more efficient when it comes to dishes with high water content.
An air fryer toaster oven, however, is better suited for tasks that require a crispy or browned texture.

Therefore, the choice between an air fryer toaster oven and a microwave ultimately depends on the specific cooking tasks you need to accomplish.

“Toaster ovens are great for browning and crisping foods, while microwaves excel at quick reheating and cooking with high water content.”

Toaster Oven Air Fryer Combo	Microwave
Slow cooking for crispy and browned exteriors	Quick cooking and reheating
Good for toasting, baking, broiling, and roasting	Ideal for reheating leftovers, soups and stews, and cooking microwaveable meals
Similar capacity, suitable for combining small batches of food	Larger capacity, can accommodate dinner plates

While an airfryer toaster oven can’t fully replace a microwave, it can certainly complement it in your kitchen.

If you frequently toast bread, bake small dishes, or need additional oven space, a toaster oven is a great addition.
If you value quick cooking and have limited countertop space, a microwave should still be a staple appliance in your kitchen. Do consider the built-in and over-the-range models, that free up your countertop.

So, before deciding whether to replace your microwave or invest in an air fryer toaster oven, consider the types of food you cook most often and the available space in your kitchen. Assess your cooking needs and preferences to determine which appliance will best suit your lifestyle.

Which Is More Suitable for Cooking: Air Fryer Toaster Oven or Convection Toaster Oven?

When comparing the air fryer vs convection toaster, both have their own strengths in cooking. The air fryer toaster oven is great for crispy and crunchy results, while the convection toaster oven excels in even cooking and browning. The choice depends on your specific cooking needs and preferences.

Air Fryer Toaster Oven vs Microwave FAQs

What is the difference in heating processes between air fryer toaster ovens and microwaves?

Air fryer toaster ovens use electric coils for cooking plus a fan to circulate hot air, while microwaves use electromagnetic waves to generate heat.

Which appliance cooks food faster, an air fryer toaster oven or a microwave?

Microwaves cook food faster as they don’t require preheating and cook from the inside out.

How do the sizes and capacities of air fryer toaster ovens and microwaves compare?

Air fryer toaster ovens and microwaves have similar sizes. Of course there are smaller and larger models.

What features do air fryer toaster ovens and microwaves have?

Air fryer toaster ovens typically have features like toasting, baking, broiling, air frying and defrosting. Microwaves are also feature defrosting, but excel in reheating and cooking “wet” dishes. Both feature power level adjustments and pre-programmed settings.

How do you clean and maintain air fryer toaster ovens and microwaves?

Air fryer toaster ovens have more components to clean, such as wire racks and crumb catchers. Microwaves often have steam-clean functions and removable trays that make cleaning easier.

Can an air fryer toaster oven replace a microwave?

While an air fryer toaster oven can perform many of the same cooking tasks as a microwave, it cannot completely replace it.

Bottom Line

Both appliances have their advantages and limitations, and the best kitchen appliance for you ultimately depends on your preferences.

The air fryer toaster oven is a great option if you enjoy crispy and browned foods without the use of excessive oil. With features like baking, broiling, and air frying, it can provide versatility in your cooking options.
The microwave is perfect for quick reheating and cooking with high water content, making it ideal for busy individuals.

To determine the best kitchen appliance for your needs, consider the types of food you cook most often.

If you frequently toast, bake, or need additional oven space, an air fryer toaster oven may be the better choice.
If you value speed and convenience, a microwave might be more suitable.

Features	Microwave	Toaster Oven Air Fryer Combi
Size	Various sizes available	Various sizes available
Capacity	small to medium capacity	small to medium capacity
Functions	Reheating, cooking, defrosting; power level adjustments, pre-programmed settings	Toasting, baking, broiling, air frying, dehydrating; power level adjustments, pre-programmed settings
Cooking Style	Quick heating, cooking with high water content	Slow cooking, browning, crisping with low water content
Installation	Built-in, over-the-range, countertop	Countertop

Ultimately, having both appliances can provide you with the most versatility in your cooking options. So, whether you decide to go for the air fryer toaster oven or the microwave, make sure it fits your kitchen layout, space, and enhances your overall kitchen experience.Happy cooking!AirfryerAid

What Are the Advantages of Using an Air Fryer Toaster Oven Over a Microwave?

When it comes to choosing between an air fryer or toaster oven, the air fryer offers several advantages over a microwave. With its ability to crisp food without needing to add oil, the air fryer or toaster oven choice is a healthier option. Additionally, it cooks food faster and more evenly than a microwave, resulting in better taste and texture.