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Best Top 10 Countertop Microwaves
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The countertop microwave is an undisputed workhorse of the modern kitchen, essential for everything from reheating leftovers to preparing quick meals. Yet, when it's time for an upgrade, navigating the vast market of available models can be surprisingly overwhelming.

Choosing the right appliance is crucial; it's a decision that impacts daily convenience and cooking efficiency. This isn't just about finding a machine that heats food, but about investing in quality, performance, and long-term value.

To simplify your search, we have meticulously researched and compiled our definitive guide to the best top 10 countertop microwaves. Our comprehensive review will help you confidently select from the best top 10 countertop microwaves, ensuring your new appliance is a perfect fit for your home and lifestyle.

Top 10 Best Top 10 Countertop Microwaves Compared

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

🏆 BEST OVERALL Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

  • Compact size is ideal for kitchens with limited counter space.
  • Features a mute button to silence beeps and alerts.
  • Comprehensive child safety locks for both the door and control panel.
  • Multiple one-touch cooking options and 10 adjustable power levels.
★★★★
4.5/5 Check Price on Amazon
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4🥈 2ND RUNNER UP TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor
  • Smart sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power.
  • 1000 watts of power provides quick and even heating.
  • Convenient one-touch express cook buttons (1-6 minutes).
  • Good capacity with a 12.4-inch turntable for dinner plates.
★★★★
4.4/5 Check Price on Amazon
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6� BEST VALUE SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6" Carousel Turntable
  • Convenient one-touch cooking with '+30 seconds' and 'Express Cook' keys.
  • Modern design with an easy-to-read white LED display and interior lighting.
  • Precise thawing options with both weight and time defrost settings.
  • Compact size is suitable for smaller kitchens, dorms, or offices.
★★★★
4.4/5 Check Price on Amazon
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu Ft

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu Ft

  • Compact footprint is ideal for apartments, dorms, or small kitchens.
  • User-friendly with one-touch start and pre-programmed auto menus.
  • Ten adjustable power settings provide good cooking versatility.
  • Includes a two-step child safety lock for enhanced household safety.
★★★★
4.3/5 Check Price on Amazon
Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor

Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor

  • Spacious 2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity and 1200W power are ideal for large dishes and families.
  • Built-in humidity sensor helps prevent overcooking by automatically adjusting power levels.
  • Specialized auto-defrost programs provide more effective thawing results for meat and poultry.
  • Includes many user-friendly features like a sound on/off option, eco mode, and a child lock.
★★★★
4.8/5 Check Price on Amazon
Kenmore KMCMWP11S2-10 Countertop Microwave 6 Auto-Preset Menus

Kenmore KMCMWP11S2-10 Countertop Microwave 6 Auto-Preset Menus

  • Intuitive control panel with 6 useful presets.
  • Convenient one-touch express cook options.
  • Compact footprint is ideal for smaller spaces.
  • Good capacity and turntable size for a countertop model.
★★★★
4.6/5 Check Price on Amazon
BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry

BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry

  • Combines five cooking functions (microwave, air fryer, bake, etc.) in one appliance.
  • Compact design helps save valuable counter space.
  • Features numerous auto-cook and air fry presets for easy operation.
  • Convenient 30-second express cooking button.
★★★★
4.6/5 Check Price on Amazon
TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable

TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable

  • High 1200-watt power for faster cooking and heating.
  • Large 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is ideal for families.
  • Innovative position-memory turntable for convenient access.
  • Sensor cooking menus simplify heating popular foods.
★★★★
4.5/5 Check Price on Amazon
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft.

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft.

  • User-friendly digital controls with convenient presets and a +30 seconds button.
  • Includes helpful features like a child safety lock and a mute option for silent operation.
  • Compact and modern design is suitable for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
  • Ten adjustable power levels provide good cooking and reheating flexibility.
★★★★
4.8/5 Check Price on Amazon
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 12.4SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 12.4" Carousel Turntable
  • Modern design with updated LED display and interior lighting.
  • Convenient one-touch controls like Express Cook and +30 seconds.
  • Good 1000W power level for fast and even heating.
  • Mid-size 1.1 cu. ft. capacity fits standard dinner plates.
★★★★
4.4/5 Check Price on Amazon

Detailed Reviews of the Best Top 10 Countertop Microwaves

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. - Compact size is ideal for kitchens with limited counter space.

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

The Chefman 700W microwave is a practical and feature-rich appliance, particularly well-suited for smaller living spaces like apartments, dorms, or office kitchens. Its 700-watt output is sufficient for daily tasks like reheating leftovers, making popcorn, or defrosting food, though it may take slightly longer than more powerful models. The unit offers excellent control with its ten power levels and six convenient presets for common items.

I found the digital interface to be intuitive, and features like the +30 seconds button and memory function add to its ease of use. The inclusion of a mute option is a thoughtful touch for avoiding noise, and the child safety lock provides peace of mind. Its compact, modern design fits well on a countertop without taking up excessive space, and the easy-to-clean surfaces are a definite plus for maintenance.

Overall, it's a solid, functional microwave for its intended purpose.

Pros

  • Compact size is ideal for kitchens with limited counter space.
  • Features a mute button to silence beeps and alerts.
  • Comprehensive child safety locks for both the door and control panel.
  • Multiple one-touch cooking options and 10 adjustable power levels.
  • Easy to clean with a wipeable exterior and a dishwasher-safe turntable.
  • Memory function allows for programming frequently used settings.

Cons

  • The 700W power level may result in longer cooking times compared to higher-wattage units.
  • Its smaller internal capacity might not accommodate large dinner plates or casserole dishes.

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor - Smart sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power.

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4

This 1000-watt microwave has been a reliable addition to the kitchen. Its performance is consistent, heating food quickly and evenly, which is the most important function. The standout feature is the Smart Sensor technology; it's genuinely useful for reheating leftovers, as it adjusts the time automatically and prevents food from getting dry or overcooked.

The one-touch start for 1 to 6 minutes is another convenient feature that gets used daily. The size is a good compromise, fitting well on the counter without taking up excessive space, and the 12.4-inch turntable is large enough for a standard dinner plate. The interface is relatively intuitive, with the preset menus for things like pizza and vegetables being a nice touch.

For a mid-range model, it offers a solid set of features that covers all the essential microwave needs effectively and adds a bit of modern convenience.

Pros

  • Smart sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power.
  • 1000 watts of power provides quick and even heating.
  • Convenient one-touch express cook buttons (1-6 minutes).
  • Good capacity with a 12.4-inch turntable for dinner plates.
  • Versatile with 10 power levels and multiple presets.
  • Defrost options by both weight and time.

Cons

  • The 1600W input power is on the higher side for a 1000W output unit.
  • The sensor feature may require some initial trial and error for best results.

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu Ft - Compact footprint is ideal for apartments, dorms, or small kitchens.

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu Ft

This 0.9 cubic foot microwave offers a practical set of features for its compact size, making it a suitable option for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or office breakrooms. The 10 adjustable power levels provide good flexibility for various cooking needs, from defrosting to full-power heating. The six pre-programmed auto menus are a convenient touch for common items like popcorn and frozen vegetables, and the one-touch start button simplifies daily operation.

It can comfortably accommodate a standard 10-inch dinner plate or a small pizza on its turntable. The inclusion of a two-step child safety lock is a valuable feature for households with children, adding an extra layer of security. While it doesn't boast the advanced functions of larger models, it reliably covers all the essential microwave tasks with an intuitive interface, making it a dependable choice for everyday use.

Pros

  • Compact footprint is ideal for apartments, dorms, or small kitchens.
  • User-friendly with one-touch start and pre-programmed auto menus.
  • Ten adjustable power settings provide good cooking versatility.
  • Includes a two-step child safety lock for enhanced household safety.
  • Memory function allows for quick recall of frequently used settings.

Cons

  • The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity may be too small for larger dishes or family-sized meals.
  • As a compact model, it may have lower wattage, potentially leading to longer cooking times than larger units.

Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor - Spacious 2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity and 1200W power are ideal for large dishes and families.

Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor

This 2.2 Cu. Ft. countertop microwave is a solid option for larger households, offering significant capacity and 1200 watts of power.

It's large enough to handle items like a 16-inch pizza or a whole chicken, which is a major convenience. The standout feature is the built-in humidity sensor, designed to prevent overcooking by automatically adjusting cooking time for more even results. This works with several of the six preset menus, which include useful daily options like bacon, beverages, and chicken pieces.

The auto-defrost function is also quite capable, with specific programs for different types of meat to simulate a more natural thawing process. Additional practical features include an energy-saving eco mode, the ability to turn off the alert sounds, a child safety lock, and a memory function. For a high-capacity microwave, it covers the essential bases with a few modern conveniences.

Pros

  • Spacious 2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity and 1200W power are ideal for large dishes and families.
  • Built-in humidity sensor helps prevent overcooking by automatically adjusting power levels.
  • Specialized auto-defrost programs provide more effective thawing results for meat and poultry.
  • Includes many user-friendly features like a sound on/off option, eco mode, and a child lock.

Cons

  • The large capacity results in a significant countertop footprint, requiring ample space.
  • With numerous features and settings, there may be a slight learning curve for some users.

Kenmore KMCMWP11S2-10 Countertop Microwave 6 Auto-Preset Menus - Intuitive control panel with 6 useful presets.

Kenmore KMCMWP11S2-10 Countertop Microwave 6 Auto-Preset Menus

This Kenmore microwave is a solid, no-frills appliance that handles everyday tasks effectively. At 1.1 cubic feet, its size is well-suited for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or office breakrooms without sacrificing too much interior space. The 12.4-inch turntable is large enough to accommodate a standard dinner plate.

The control panel is straightforward, with six preset menus for common items like popcorn and pizza, which simplifies operation. The one-touch express cook buttons for 30 seconds and 1 to 6 minutes are particularly convenient for quick reheating. The defrost function, offering options for both time and weight, is a practical feature that works as expected.

While it doesn't have advanced features like sensor cooking or convection, it reliably performs all the essential functions you would expect from a standard microwave. It's a capable and user-friendly machine for basic heating, defrosting, and cooking needs.

Pros

  • Intuitive control panel with 6 useful presets.
  • Convenient one-touch express cook options.
  • Compact footprint is ideal for smaller spaces.
  • Good capacity and turntable size for a countertop model.
  • Flexible defrost options by either time or weight.

Cons

  • Lacks advanced features like sensor reheat or an inverter.
  • The design is functional but very basic.

BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry - Combines five cooking functions (microwave, air fryer, bake, etc.) in one appliance.

BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry

This 5-in-1 countertop appliance combines a microwave, air fryer, convection oven, grill, and roaster into a single compact unit, making it a versatile option for kitchens with limited space. With 900 watts of power, it handles standard microwave tasks effectively through 10 power levels and 7 auto-cook menus for items like popcorn and vegetables. The dedicated air fryer function is a major highlight, offering 11 presets for popular foods such as fries and chicken wings, which simplifies the cooking process.

Additional features like the 30-second express cook button and a child-lock for the control panel add practical, everyday convenience. While a multi-function device may not offer the same specialized power as individual, larger appliances, its ability to perform so many tasks in one machine is its primary strength. It's a solid choice for those looking to declutter their countertops without sacrificing functionality.

Pros

  • Combines five cooking functions (microwave, air fryer, bake, etc.) in one appliance.
  • Compact design helps save valuable counter space.
  • Features numerous auto-cook and air fry presets for easy operation.
  • Convenient 30-second express cooking button.
  • Includes a child-lock safety feature for the control panel.

Cons

  • At 900 watts, it may cook or heat slower than higher-wattage models.
  • Performance of specialized functions like air frying may not match dedicated, single-purpose appliances.

TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable - High 1200-watt power for faster cooking and heating.

TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable

This 1200-watt countertop microwave is a feature-rich appliance well-suited for family use. The 1.6 cu. ft.

capacity is substantial, and the 13.6-inch turntable easily fits large dishes or a full-size pizza. The sensor menus are a practical addition, designed to optimize heating for common foods without guesswork. One of the more innovative features is the position-memory turntable, which returns to its original position, making it easier to grab a mug handle.

Other thoughtful functions include the ability to mute the buzzer, a child safety lock, and various cooking presets. The black stainless-steel finish provides a modern aesthetic for the kitchen. Given its powerful performance and large size, it appears to be a solid and capable unit for daily, heavy-duty use.

Potential buyers should take note of its considerable external dimensions to ensure it fits their available space.

Pros

  • High 1200-watt power for faster cooking and heating.
  • Large 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is ideal for families.
  • Innovative position-memory turntable for convenient access.
  • Sensor cooking menus simplify heating popular foods.
  • Ability to turn off the sound for quiet operation.
  • Stylish black stainless-steel design.

Cons

  • The large footprint (21.77" W x 17.91" D) requires significant counter space.
  • May have more features than a user looking for a simple microwave needs.

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft. - User-friendly digital controls with convenient presets and a +30 seconds button.

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft.

This 900-watt Chefman microwave is a solid option for those needing a compact and functional appliance. It covers the basics well with six common presets for items like popcorn and pizza, and offers 10 distinct power levels for more controlled cooking, from melting butter to reheating leftovers quickly. The digital controls are straightforward, featuring a handy +30 seconds button and a memory function for your favorite settings.

Thoughtful additions like the child safety lock and a mute option to silence beeps are genuinely useful for households. The modern black design fits well in most kitchens without taking up too much counter space. Maintenance seems simple, with a wipe-clean exterior and a dishwasher-safe glass turntable.

While it's not the largest or most powerful microwave available, its feature set makes it a very practical choice for everyday use in smaller spaces.

Pros

  • User-friendly digital controls with convenient presets and a +30 seconds button.
  • Includes helpful features like a child safety lock and a mute option for silent operation.
  • Compact and modern design is suitable for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
  • Ten adjustable power levels provide good cooking and reheating flexibility.
  • Easy to maintain with a wipe-clean exterior and a dishwasher-safe glass turntable.

Cons

  • At 900 watts, it may cook or heat food slightly slower than higher-powered models.
  • The compact interior capacity may not fit larger dinner plates or casserole dishes.

Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Top 10 Countertop Microwaves

Size and Capacity

When selecting a microwave, the first consideration is its physical size and internal capacity, measured in cubic feet (cu. ft.). For smaller kitchens, apartments, or dorms, compact models like the Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. or the BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu. Ft. are ideal. For families or those who cook larger dishes, spacious models like the Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) at 2.2 Cu. Ft. or the Toshiba ML-EM45P(BS) at 1.6 Cu. Ft. offer ample room for bigger plates and containers.

Power and Performance

A microwave's power, measured in watts, determines how quickly and evenly it cooks. Models with 1000 to 1200 watts, such as the TOSHIBA and SHARP units, provide faster heating. For superior performance, look for features like a smart humidity sensor, found in several Toshiba models. This technology automatically adjusts cooking time and power by detecting the moisture released from food, helping to prevent overcooking and ensuring perfect results every time.

Key Features and Convenience

Modern microwaves offer a host of features to simplify daily use. Look for one-touch express cook buttons (1-6 minutes) and a "+30 seconds" key, common on SHARP and Toshiba models. For households with children, a comprehensive child safety lock is crucial, a feature highlighted on the Chefman and BLACK+DECKER ovens. Other convenient options include a mute button or sound on/off setting for quiet operation and a memory function to program your most-used settings.

Versatility and Cooking Functions

Beyond simple reheating, the best top 10 countertop microwaves offer enhanced versatility. Most models come with 10 adjustable power levels and multiple pre-programmed menus for items like popcorn, pizza, and vegetables. Advanced defrost options, allowing you to thaw by either weight or time, provide more precise results. For the ultimate in versatility, consider a multi-function appliance like the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1, which combines a microwave with an air fryer, baker, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Top 10 Countertop Microwaves

What is a smart sensor and is it worth it?

A smart sensor, found in models like the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS, is a highly useful feature that detects the humidity released from food as it heats. The microwave then automatically adjusts the cooking time and power level to prevent overcooking and ensure food is heated perfectly. This technology removes the guesswork from cooking, provides more consistent results for popular foods, and is a valuable addition for anyone seeking a more intuitive and efficient appliance.

Which microwave is best for a small kitchen or dorm room?

For kitchens with limited counter space, a compact microwave is the best choice. Models specifically designed with a small footprint include the Chefman Countertop Microwave Ovens (both 0.7 and 0.9 Cu. Ft. versions), the SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with a 10.6" turntable, and the BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu. Ft. model. These units provide essential functionality and good cooking versatility without occupying too much valuable surface area, making them perfect for apartments, offices, and dorms.

Are there microwaves that operate silently?

Yes, several models among the best top 10 countertop microwaves offer a feature to silence audible alerts. The Chefman microwaves come with a dedicated mute button, while select Toshiba models, like the ML-EM62P(SS) and ML-EM45P(BS), include a sound on/off option. This functionality is ideal for households where someone might

Conclusion: The Final Verdict

The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. this is an excellent option for anyone seeking a compact microwave with a great set of modern features. it's highly recommended for students, small apartments, or as a secondary appliance in an office.