When selecting a countertop convection appliance, understanding core functionalities like wattage, cavity volume, and sensor cooking is paramount. The market offers a diverse array of models, each boasting unique features designed to enhance culinary convenience.
Identifying the best microwave oven requires a nuanced approach, considering everything from inverter technology for even heating to sleek, modern aesthetics. Our curated selection aims to simplify your decision-making process, highlighting top-tier options that excel in performance and reliability. Delve deeper to uncover which microwave oven truly stands out from the competition and elevates your kitchen experience.
Find Your Perfect Kitchen Companion!
1. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4″ Removable
Elevate your kitchen convenience with the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS countertop microwave. Experience perfectly cooked meals thanks to its advanced Smart Sensor Technology, designed to eliminate guesswork.
This 2 cu ft appliance offers ample space and powerful 1000-watt performance for all your heating and cooking needs.
This 2 cubic foot microwave boasts a powerful 1000-watt output and is equipped with a spacious
4-inch removable glass turntable. External dimensions measure 6 x
0 x 8 inches, making it a great fit for most countertops. Enjoy intuitive controls, a kitchen timer, and 10 distinct power levels for versatile food preparation.
Enjoy intuitive controls, a kitchen timer, and 10 distinct power levels for versatile food preparation.
Pros
- Smart Sensor Technology: This innovative feature automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring consistently delicious results and preventing over or undercooking.
- Versatile Cooking Options: With 6 preset menus for popular items like pizza and vegetables, plus 10 unique power levels, this compact microwave offers exceptional culinary flexibility, from defrosting to simmering.
- User-Friendly Operation: Features like one-touch start for quick cooking, easy weight or time defrost, and an audible Mute Mode for quiet operation enhance the overall user experience.
- Spacious Interior and Turntable: The generous 1.2 cu ft capacity and 12.4-inch removable glass turntable easily accommodate larger dishes and ensure even heating.
Cons
- While it offers a mute function, the initial setup for muting requires a specific button press sequence, which might not be immediately intuitive for all users.
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS stands out as a top choice for those seeking a reliable and intelligent microwave. Its blend of smart technology, ample capacity, and user-friendly features makes it an ideal addition to any modern kitchen, simplifying meal preparation for busy households.
2. GE Countertop Microwave Oven,1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8
Tired of juggling cooking times and uneven results? Discover the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, a spacious and powerful appliance designed to simplify your kitchen tasks.
With its substantial 0 cubic feet capacity and robust 1200-watt power output, this GE microwave comfortably handles larger dishes. The
The 0 cu ft microwave interior provides ample room, while the advanced sensor cooking controls ensure perfect results by automatically adjusting time and power levels for optimal food preparation. The convenient glass turntable promotes even cooking distribution.
Pros
- Enhanced Safety: Features a mandatory Two-Step Child Lock system to prevent accidental operation, offering peace of mind for families with young children.
- Exceptional Cooking Performance: The 1200-watt heating element combined with sensor cooking technology intelligently manages power and time for delicious, consistently cooked food, from reheating leftovers to preparing full meals.
- Spacious Capacity: The generous 2.0 cubic feet interior capacity allows for cooking larger items like a full chicken or casserole dishes, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen.
- Intuitive Operation: Effortless one-touch controls, including Instant On express cooking, multiple cooking modes, and weight/time defrost functions, make meal preparation quick and simple for any user.
Cons
- The large 2.0 cubic feet size might consume significant countertop space in smaller kitchens.
This GE countertop microwave oven is an excellent choice for households seeking a large-capacity, high-performance cooking solution. Its smart features and user-friendly design make it ideal for busy individuals and families who want efficient, reliable meal preparation without sacrificing kitchen space or convenience.
3. Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In with Inverter Technology
Experience unparalleled cooking precision with the Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S. This sleek stainless steel appliance leverages advanced Inverter Technology for consistently perfect results, transforming everyday meal preparation into an effortless culinary delight.
Boasting 1200 watts of high-power cooking and a generous 2 cubic foot capacity, the NN-SN686S ensures even heat distribution and efficient preparation.
Its compact design with a 4-inch turntable optimizes counter space while maximizing interior volume, making it an ideal addition for any kitchen seeking superior microwave performance and smart functionality.
Pros
- Consistent Cooking Power: Patented Inverter Technology delivers a seamless stream of 1200 watts for evenly cooked food and delicious flavors, eliminating hot spots and overcooking.
- Advanced Defrosting: The Inverter Turbo Defrost feature significantly speeds up the defrosting process, saving you time and ensuring food is ready to cook at the optimal temperature.
- Intelligent Meal Preparation: With the Genius Sensor, the microwave automatically adjusts power levels and cooking times for 14 preset menu items, simplifying complex recipes and providing worry-free reheating and auto cook options.
- Space-Saving Elegance: The countertop or built-in design features a thinner, lighter profile with a large interior capacity and a 13.4-inch turntable, integrating seamlessly into your kitchen décor.
- Convenient Keep Warm Function: Keep foods like soups, sauces, or desserts warm and ready to serve until you are, enhancing mealtime flexibility.
Cons
- The reliance on preset menus via the Genius Sensor might require some initial experimentation for users accustomed to manual power and time adjustments for every meal.
The Panasonic NN-SN686S is more than just a microwave; it’s a testament to Japanese engineering focused on delivering smarter, faster meals with an elevated cooking experience. Its combination of power, intelligence, and thoughtful design makes it a top-tier choice for those who value efficiency and perfect results in their kitchen appliances.
4. BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety
Experience effortless meal preparation with the BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven. Engineered for convenience, its intuitive interface and robust 900-watt power make reheating and cooking a breeze, fitting seamlessly into any busy kitchen. Enjoy perfectly cooked meals with precision power control.
Enjoy perfectly cooked meals with precision power control.
This versatile microwave features pre-programmed settings for common meals like popcorn, pizza, and potatoes, alongside 10 power levels for customized cooking. The spacious 6-inch glass turntable ensures even heating, while the child safety lock provides peace of mind.
6-inch glass turntable ensures even heating, while the child safety lock provides peace of mind. Its easy-to-read digital display and push-button door offer user-friendly operation.
Pros
- Versatile Cooking Options: Multiple pre-programmed settings (popcorn, potato, pizza, etc.) and 10 distinct power levels offer flexibility for various culinary tasks, from defrosting to reheating leftovers.
- User-Friendly Design: A large LED digital display, clear control panel, and simple push-button door release make operation straightforward for all users, including quick 30-second express cooking.
- Safety and Convenience Features: The integrated child safety lock ensures secure operation around children, while the removable, dishwasher-safe glass turntable simplifies cleanup after use.
Cons
- While efficient, its compact size might not be ideal for larger dishes or family-sized meal preparation.
The BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven is an excellent choice for individuals and small families seeking a reliable and easy-to-use appliance for everyday cooking needs. Its combination of power, convenience, and safety makes it a valuable addition to any kitchen counter, simplifying mealtime with smart features.
5. BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child
Elevate your kitchen experience with the BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven. This sleek appliance combines powerful 1000-watt performance with intuitive, one-touch cooking programs, making meal preparation a breeze for busy households. Its striking stainless steel and black finish adds a touch of modern style to any countertop.
This 1000-watt kitchen essential boasts 10 distinct power levels for precise cooking control, alongside a large LED digital display for effortless operation. Featuring convenient pre-programmed buttons for common foods like popcorn and pizza, a 30-second express cook function, and a child safety lock, it offers both efficiency and peace of mind.
4” glass turntable for even heating and easy cleaning.
Pros
- Versatile Cooking Options: With 10 power settings and specialized pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and dinner plates, this microwave simplifies cooking diverse meals.
- Powerful and Efficient Heating: The 1000-watt output ensures rapid and even cooking, while the 30-second express cook feature is perfect for quick reheating or adding extra time.
- User-Friendly Design: A clear LED display, easy-to-read control panel, and a simple push-button door release enhance usability, complemented by a child safety lock for added security.
- Spacious and Easy to Clean: The internal 1000 watt heating capacity and the removable 12.4-inch glass turntable accommodate larger dishes and simplify post-meal cleanup.
Cons
- The push-button door release, while convenient, might be slightly less intuitive for users accustomed to handle-style openings, though the overall control panel is straightforward.
The BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 is an ideal choice for individuals and families seeking a reliable, feature-rich microwave that combines powerful performance with modern convenience. Its intuitive controls and generous capacity make it a perfect addition to any busy kitchen, transforming everyday meal prep into an effortless task.
6. GE® 1.4 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven
Discover effortless meal preparation with the GE® 4 Cu. Ft.
Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven. This appliance offers a perfect blend of spaciousness and efficiency, bringing powerful 1100-watt cooking performance to your kitchen counter without sacrificing valuable space.
Enjoy consistently delicious results thanks to its intelligent sensor cooking and convenient defrost options.
Boasting 4 cubic feet of interior capacity and 1100 watts of heating power, this GE microwave oven is designed for both everyday reheating and more elaborate cooking tasks. The integrated glass turntable ensures even cooking by rotating food throughout the cycle, while advanced features like sensor cooking and weight/time defrost simplify meal preparation for busy households.
Its user-friendly interface with instant-on express cook controls makes operation straightforward.
Key Features & Benefits
- Sensor Cooking and Defrost: Achieve perfect results automatically with sensor cooking controls that adjust time and power, and enjoy simplified defrosting using either weight or manual time settings for optimal food preparation.
- Ample Capacity with Compact Design: The 1.4 cu. ft. interior accommodates larger dishes and meals, while the countertop footprint remains efficient, making it an ideal addition for kitchens of varying sizes.
- Enhanced Safety and Convenience: A crucial Two-Step Child Lock feature prevents accidental operation, offering peace of mind. Additional conveniences include instant-on express cook controls, multiple cooking modes, a kitchen timer, and cooking complete alarms.
- Even Cooking Technology: The durable glass turntable rotates throughout the cooking cycle, ensuring that food is heated uniformly for consistent taste and texture every time.
Considerations
- While powerful, users accustomed to larger capacity ovens might find the 1.4 cu. ft. size a limiting factor for very large dishes or batch cooking.
This GE countertop microwave oven is an excellent choice for individuals and families seeking a reliable, feature-rich appliance that simplifies daily cooking. Its balance of capacity, power, and smart functionality makes it a standout option for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen’s cooking capabilities and enjoy more convenient meal times.
7. Panasonic Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.2 Cu. Ft., 1250W, Inverter Technology
Elevate your kitchen experience with the Panasonic Countertop Microwave Oven, a brilliant fusion of Japanese innovation and powerful performance. This 2 cu.
2 cu. ft. appliance boasts 1250W of high-speed cooking power and intelligent Inverter Technology for perfectly even results every time, making meal prep effortless and enjoyable.
Designed for modern living, this Panasonic microwave features a spacious interior capable of accommodating large dishes, while its sleek stainless steel exterior adds a touch of sophistication to any countertop. Experience smarter cooking with Genius Sensor technology that automatically adjusts settings, ensuring optimal preparation for a variety of foods.
Pros
- Achieve remarkably even cooking and reheating thanks to advanced Inverter Technology, eliminating cold spots and overcooked edges for consistently delicious meals.
- Save valuable time with a powerful 1250W maximum output, efficiently handling everything from quick defrosting to preparing full family meals much faster than conventional methods.
- Cook or reheat large portions and casserole dishes with ease thanks to a generous 1.2 cu. ft. internal capacity, a standout feature for family-sized kitchens.
- Simplify cooking processes with the intuitive Genius Sensor, which intelligently detects food moisture and automatically sets optimal cooking times and power levels, reducing guesswork.
- Enjoy a premium look and feel with its durable, stylish stainless steel finish that easily wipes clean, enhancing your kitchen’s aesthetic while providing practical daily use.
Cons
- While offering substantial capacity, larger families or those who frequently prepare very large items might find the 1.2 cu. ft. size slightly limiting compared to some over-the-range or larger built-in models.
This Panasonic countertop microwave represents a superior choice for those seeking efficient, evenly cooked meals with a touch of modern elegance. Its combination of intelligent sensors, powerful wattage, and spacious design makes it an ideal appliance for busy households looking for reliable performance and streamlined meal preparation.
Invest in cutting-edge Japanese engineering for a truly elevated cooking experience.
8. Panasonic Microwave Oven, Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In Cyclonic Wave with Inverter
Experience unparalleled cooking precision and flavor preservation with the Panasonic Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave. Its advanced Cyclonic Wave and Inverter technologies ensure perfect results every time, making it a superior choice for health-conscious and busy households seeking efficient kitchen solutions.
This 1250-watt, 2-cubic-foot microwave delivers consistent power for evenly cooked meals, retaining essential nutrients. The Inverter Turbo Defrost dramatically cuts down thawing times, while the spacious
5-inch turntable accommodates larger dishes, offering a premium upgrade for your kitchen appliance lineup and countertop microwave needs.
Pros
- Consistent, even cooking and reheating is achieved thanks to the advanced Cyclonic Wave and patented Inverter Technology, ensuring food is never overcooked or unevenly heated.
- Rapid defrosting of frozen foods is made possible by the Inverter Turbo Defrost, significantly reducing preparation time for meals.
- Generous interior capacity, supported by a large 16.5-inch turntable, comfortably fits family-sized portions and larger cookware, making it a truly practical large microwave oven option.
- Smart cooking presets and sensor adjustments automate cooking cycles for various food types, simplifying meal preparation and offering convenience for everyday use.
- The dedicated food warming feature keeps dishes at the perfect temperature until serving, ideal for entertaining or busy schedules.
Cons
- The premium features and larger capacity come with a higher price point compared to more basic countertop microwave models.
The Panasonic Stainless Steel Microwave Oven represents a significant investment in culinary technology, perfect for those who prioritize meal quality, speed, and convenience. Its robust build and smart features make it an exceptional addition to any modern kitchen looking for a reliable and high-performance cooking appliance.
9. GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection
Unlock versatile cooking in a compact space with the GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven. This isn’t just a microwave; it’s your all-in-one solution for air frying, convection baking, and broiling, designed to maximize utility in smaller kitchens, dorms, or office breakrooms.
Experience the convenience of a 0 cu ft interior, capable of handling dinner plates and personal pizzas, all while maintaining a minimal countertop footprint. With 1050 watts of power and multiple cooking functions including air crisp, this appliance efficiently prepares everything from frozen meals to perfectly reheated leftovers, making it an ideal kitchen gadget for modern living.
Pros
- Multi-Functional Cooking: Seamlessly switch between microwave, air fry, convection bake, and broil modes, offering unparalleled versatility in a single appliance for diverse meal preparations such as crispy fries and baked goods.
- Space-Saving Design: A compact 1.0 cu ft capacity boasts a surprisingly spacious interior perfect for singles or couples, fitting easily onto dorm desks, office counters, or into small apartment kitchens without sacrificing valuable real estate.
- Quiet Operation: Engineered for low noise, this versatile microwave ensures it won’t disrupt your work, study, or sleep environment, making it an excellent choice for shared living or working spaces.
- Powerful & Efficient: Delivers 1050 watts for rapid cooking and reheating, while the built-in air fryer crisps food without preheating, saving time and energy for quick snacks and meals.
- User-Friendly Features: Includes convenient one-touch presets for popular items like pizza and fries, alongside a two-step child lock for enhanced safety and peace of mind during operation.
- Easy Maintenance: The stainless steel interior wipes clean effortlessly, and the unit comes equipped with essential accessories like a crisper pan for enhanced air frying and convection results.
Cons
- While the 1.0 cu ft capacity is adequate for many, larger families or those who frequently cook family-sized meals might find it slightly restrictive for batch cooking or very large dishes, though its specialized functions compensate for volume.
The GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven is an exceptional choice for anyone seeking a compact, multi-talented kitchen companion. Its ability to air fry, convection bake, and broil alongside standard microwave functions makes it an indispensable tool for dorm rooms, office kitchens, or compact apartments looking for maximum utility and minimal clutter.
10. Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor, 6 Menus,
Elevate your kitchen experience with the Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS), a spacious and intelligent countertop microwave designed for modern convenience. Boasting a generous
ft. capacity and powerful 1200-watt output, this appliance effortlessly handles family-sized meals and larger items, making meal preparation faster and more enjoyable.
This Toshiba microwave simplifies cooking with its intuitive humidity sensor and six specialized automatic menus, ensuring perfectly heated dishes with preserved moisture. From quickly defrosting meats to preparing breakfast favorites like oatmeal, the ML-EM62P(SS) offers versatile functionality for everyday culinary tasks.
Pros
- Generous Capacity for Family Needs: The expansive 2.2 cu. ft. interior easily accommodates large items, such as a 16-inch pizza or a whole chicken, making it ideal for larger households and entertaining.
- Smart Sensor Cooking: The integrated humidity sensor intelligently adjusts cooking time and power, guaranteeing evenly heated food and optimal moisture retention across six pre-programmed menus, including options for bacon, beverages, and frozen items.
- Efficient Auto-Defrost: The Auto-Defrost function offers specialized programs for meat, poultry, and fish, mimicking natural defrosting to achieve superior results without compromising texture or quality.
- User-Friendly Features: Enjoy added convenience with settings like One Pound Defrost, an energy-saving ECO mode, audible alerts with a sound-off function, speedy cooking, memory recall, multi-stage cooking capabilities, and a child safety lock for peace of mind.
Cons
- While it offers advanced features, this model is not a smart home appliance and lacks Wi-Fi connectivity or integration with smart home ecosystems.
For those seeking a high-capacity, feature-rich countertop microwave, the Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) stands out as an excellent choice. Its smart sensor technology, diverse auto menus, and powerful performance make it a reliable and efficient addition to any busy kitchen, simplifying meal preparation and ensuring delicious results.
Your Top Microwave Oven Guide
Capacity and size you need
The internal volume dictates not only what you can heat but also how efficiently your appliance will fit into your life.
Determining the right oven dimensions is paramount to ensuring it integrates seamlessly into your kitchen workflow and available space. Consider how much food you typically reheat – are you usually warming up single servings for one, or preparing larger portions for a family? A compact countertop model might suffice for minimal needs and tight quarters, while households that frequently cook or reheat substantial meals will benefit from larger cubic foot capacities.
A compact countertop model might suffice for minimal needs and tight quarters, while households that frequently cook or reheat substantial meals will benefit from larger cubic foot capacities. Over-the-range units, while offering space-saving advantages by replacing your hood, also come with specific width and height requirements that must align with your existing cabinetry and ventilation setup.
Microwave ovens are commonly measured in cubic feet, with standard countertop models ranging from 7 to 0 cubic feet.
0 cubic feet. Over-the-range units often fall within a similar capacity range but their external measurements are critical for installation. For example, a typical over-the-range appliance might be around 30 inches wide.
Those reheating a single plate of leftovers will find models under 0 cubic feet perfectly adequate, whereas a family often hosting dinners might require a 5 cubic feet unit or larger to accommodate bigger dishes or multiple items simultaneously.
5 cubic feet unit or larger to accommodate bigger dishes or multiple items simultaneously.
Power and performance factors
Microwave oven effectiveness is largely dictated by its core power output and intelligent functionality.
Higher wattage translates directly to quicker cooking times, meaning you can reheat leftovers or prepare meals in a fraction of the time compared to lower-powered models. This time-saving aspect is invaluable for busy individuals and families. Beyond basic reheating, advanced features significantly expand a microwave’s culinary capabilities.
Beyond basic reheating, advanced features significantly expand a microwave’s culinary capabilities. The inclusion of convection heating, for example, circulates hot air, allowing your appliance to bake, roast, and brown foods to perfection – think crispy chicken skin or perfectly golden cookies. This transforms it from a simple reheating device into a versatile oven.
Furthermore, sensor cooking technology simplifies the cooking process by automatically adjusting time and power levels based on the moisture detected in your food. This ensures optimal results, preventing undercooked or overcooked dishes and delivering consistently delicious outcomes for a wide range of meals, from delicate fish to hearty casseroles.
Userfriendly features
A well-designed user interface simplifies daily kitchen tasks.
Intuitive control panels with clearly labeled buttons and readily accessible preset cooking options for popcorn, defrosting, or reheating significantly reduce guesswork and save valuable time. Imagine effortlessly programming your meal without consulting a manual.
Beyond the front panel, the ease of cleaning both the interior and exterior is paramount; a non-stick interior coating and a smooth exterior finish minimize scrubbing after use, making maintenance a breeze. Furthermore, thoughtful additions like audible alerts that signal the completion of a cooking cycle, preventing overcooking, and essential child lock functions offer peace of mind, especially in households with young children, ensuring safe operation and preventing accidental startups.
These elements contribute to a more enjoyable and efficient cooking experience. Look for models that offer a straightforward setup experience and maintenance routines that don’t add to your workload, enhancing the overall utility of your countertop appliance.
Durability and design
The solid construction and refined appearance of a cooking appliance are paramount for both longevity and kitchen integration.
A microwave oven’s build quality directly correlates to its lifespan and performance, ensuring it can withstand daily use without faltering. Factors like the robustness of the casing, the quality of the door hinges, and the materials used for the interior are critical indicators of its ability to endure. For instance, the choice between interior finishes significantly influences upkeep and durability: stainless steel offers superior scratch and stain resistance, making it ideal for frequent, robust cleaning, while enamel interiors are generally more budget-friendly and easier to wipe clean of minor splatters, though they can be more susceptible to chips and scratches over time.
Beyond mere functionality, the visual appeal of this countertop essential plays a vital role in complementing your existing kitchen aesthetic. Whether you prefer the sleek, modern look of brushed stainless steel, the classic charm of a white or black finish, or a more integrated, panel-ready design to seamlessly blend with your cabinetry, the exterior design contributes to the overall harmony of your culinary space.
Quick Best Microwave Oven 2017 Buying Checklist
- Determine Your Space: Measure your countertop or cabinet to ensure a perfect fit.
- Assess Power Needs: Consider wattage for faster heating and specialized cooking.
- Evaluate Capacity: Choose a size that accommodates your typical meal portions.
- Look for Smart Presets: Opt for models with convenient one-touch cooking options.
- Prioritize Easy Cleaning: Select interior and exterior finishes that are simple to wipe down.
- Check for Durability: Invest in robust materials for a long-lasting appliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Typical Wattage For A Good Microwave Oven?
Most standard microwave ovens range from 700 to 1200 watts, with higher wattage generally meaning faster cooking times.
Are Countertop Or Over-The-Range Models Better?
Countertop models offer more flexibility in placement, while over-the-range models save counter space and often include a range hood.
What Does ‘Sensor Cooking’ Do?
Sensor cooking uses humidity sensors to automatically adjust cooking time and power level for optimal results, preventing over or undercooking.
How Important Is The Interior Material?
Interior materials like stainless steel are durable and easy to clean, while enamel can be prone to chipping if not cared for properly.
What Is Convection Cooking In A Microwave?
Convection cooking uses a fan to circulate hot air, allowing the microwave to bake, roast, and brown food similar to a conventional oven.
Final Words
Selecting the best microwave oven can significantly streamline your kitchen tasks. With versatile features like efficient heating, convenient presets, and durable designs, these appliances offer unparalleled convenience.
Invest wisely to enjoy faster meal prep and reheating for years to come.
