The answer depends on your usage preference and for what you mostly do with microwave.
The air fryer does offer a wide range of functions that are similar to those of an oven or a convection oven, and microwave oven.
What’s more, using an air fryer for heating liquids is not recommended as it is not suitable for this task.
So, if you don’t need your food heated quickly or don’t require heating liquids then an air fryer can serve as a great alternative to regular and convection ovens.
Not only do air fryers reduce fat content, they can also offer different flavor and texture options.
Although microwaves often save time by rapidly cooking an item in less time, the taste of food cooked in an air fryer can far surpass those made in a microwave when it comes to crispness and crunch.
In other words, an air fryer is worth the extra time if you’re looking for tastier results than what a microwave has to offer!
Air fryer vs Microwave: Comparison
1-Working Method
According to FDA (Federal Drug Authority), The magnetron within the microwave produces electromagnetic radiation which heats the water contained in food , so while outer layers are cooked primarily cooked first by microwaves, and then the conducted heat from those layers cooks the inside of the food.
Although the food is safe to consume but you won’t get the taste of traditionally cooked food.
On the other hand, air fryers are a convenient and health-friendly alternative to deep-frying food in oil. Often referred to as the “healthier fryer”, its cooking method is based on hot air circulated through the basket where you place your food. The fan placed in the top section blows hot air over and around the food, creating a convection effect that causes it to cook and get crispy with a browned color.
If you’re looking for an easier way to prepare your favorite fried foods without adding extra calories through oils, then try out an air fryer! It’s portable and easy to use; all you have to do is place your chosen ingredients into the basket and adjust the temperature settings on the device.
Although it may not provide exactly the same traditional taste associated with deep-frying, but still the food cooked is efficient and generally healthier than its counterpart.
2-Cooking Time
When it comes to cooking times, microwave oven is ahead of air fryer. It cooks more quickly than air fryer.
While the microwave is great for quickly heating up and defrosting food, it can’t quite cook to the same level as an air fryer. With the right accessories, you’ll be mastering steaks, bacon, and even fried chicken in your air fryer!
Although microwaves still have an advantage when it comes to heating up liquid and soups more efficiently.
3-Capacity
Microwaves are versatile and convenient kitchen appliances around. With a little bit of creativity, they can be used to heat any type of leftovers in minutes!
All you need to do is pop your food into the microwave and set the appropriate time, it’s that easy.
But the down side is that if you reheat food in microwave, it will get soggy.
On the other side, air fryers comes in array of sizes available, it’s easy to find one to fit the size and scope of your recipes.
From small models perfect for making a single meal for two people, to mid-range machines suitable for four or more meals, to larger appliances that can feed a family without sacrificing quality, air fryers have something for everyone.
But it’s important to note that when using any size model, you must leave enough room between the ingredients so that air can circulate properly for optimum taste and texture.
4-Electricity Usage
The electricity usage of a microwave oven can range between 700 to 1800 watts, while air fryers also vary greatly in wattage based on size and design.
Small air fryers have an average use of 1000-1250 watts, making them a much more cost-effective option for those who often take advantage of such small appliances.
For those looking for something a bit more powerful, high-end models with larger capacities come with slightly higher electricity usages, ranging from 1300 to 1800 watts.
5-Max Temperature
A microwave oven and an air fryer are similar when it comes to temperature range.
Not only do they save time, but both appliances also offer temperature ranges that can produce restaurant-quality dishes without a lot of effort. With the different settings on a microwave oven, users can heat up food from 300°F to 500°F (or 150°C to 260°C).
An air fryer offers similar temperature ranges, ranging between 350°F and 500°F for perfect crisps, colors and textures.
6-Crispiness Level
For a quick and satisfying meal, air fryers are the go-to choice if you’re looking for a crispy texture. While microwaves have their benefits of efficiently reheating food in just minutes, they can’t give your food that desirable crisp you may need and the food might feel soggy.
With air fryers, you’ll have to endure a longer reheating time, but food that comes out has superior flavor and texture – especially when it comes to crunchy textures like fried chicken wings. If getting the perfect crispy mouthfeel is important to you, invest in an air fryer – you won’t regret it!
Can an air fryer replace a toaster oven?
It is a valid question to think that whether an air fryer can be a suitable replacement of a toaster oven or not?
However, the truth is that yes, it can replace a toaster oven.
With similarity in functions , air fryer can perform the tasks conducted in toaster ovens.
An air fryer with properly set power levels and temperature settings can produce food that has just as much flavor and texture as cooked in a toaster oven.
Can you reheat food in air fryer?
The short answer is yes you absolutely can reheat food in an air fryer!
The cozy convenience of microwaves is hard to beat, but if you find yourself wanting a crispier finish to your leftover fare, an air fryer might be the better way to go.
You can also use the broil setting on the air fryer for those crispy edges you’re after.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to reheating leftovers; so, if you want something out of the ordinary give the air fryer a try!
