I've been testing Ninja's microwave/air fryer hybrid for 2 weeks — now I don't want it to leave my kitchen

The Ninja Crispi Microwave, Ninja's first foray into the microwave market, has been making waves since its U.S. launch in July. This multifunctional appliance, priced at $449 in the U.S. and £359 in the U.K., combines microwave and air fry capabilities using Ninja's FusionCrisp technology. Despite being more expensive than some competitors, such as Toshiba's EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave at $149 or IKEA's GÅTEBO 3-in-1 microwave at $199, the Ninja Crispi Microwave offers the benefits of a two-in-one appliance.

When unboxing the Ninja Crispi Microwave, it becomes clear that this is a substantial appliance, requiring careful handling and ample countertop space. The microwave comes with a 5.5-quart glass dish and a crisper plate, along with an owner's guide and quick start guide, including recipes and instructions. Users should note that the glass dish and crisper plate cannot be used in the standard microwave function.

One standout feature of the Ninja Crispi Microwave is its FusionCrisp technology, which allows for microwaving and air frying simultaneously. This feature shines in baking fruit crumbles, as demonstrated in a quick start guide recipe. The appliance also offers eight microwave presets and five air fry presets, providing a range of cooking options.

While the Ninja Crispi Microwave boasts a sleek design and looks like a standard microwave, users should be prepared for its larger dimensions, requiring 11.81 inches of clearance from the top of the appliance to any cabinets or shelves above it. Additionally, the microwave lacks a turntable, giving it 20% more usable cooking space than a standard turntable. Despite some challenges with the weight of the glass dish, the appliance offers a range of cooking possibilities, making it a worthy contender on the countertop.