From reheating last night's dinner to defrosting ingredients in a pinch, the microwave is an undisputed workhorse of the modern kitchen. Yet, with a market saturated with countless models, selecting the right one can be a daunting task.
Choosing the best overall microwave isn't just about finding the most powerful or feature-packed option; it's about identifying the perfect blend of performance, reliability, and overall value. This guide cuts through the noise, providing the in-depth analysis needed to make an informed decision.
We've meticulously evaluated the top contenders to help you find the best overall microwave that delivers consistent results and exceptional quality, ensuring your investment serves your household well for years to come.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Overall Microwave Compared
🏆 BEST OVERALL TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor
- Smart Sensor technology prevents overcooking by auto-adjusting time.
- 1000 watts of power provides fast and even heating.
- Convenient one-touch start for common cooking times (1-6 min).
- Versatile defrost options by either weight or time.
🥈 2ND RUNNER UP Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
- Compact size is ideal for small kitchens or dorms.
- Includes thoughtful features like a mute function and child lock.
- User-friendly digital controls with helpful presets and a memory function.
- Ten adjustable power levels provide good cooking versatility.
� BEST VALUE Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts
- Powerful 1000-watt output with 10 adjustable power levels.
- Convenient one-touch presets for popular food items.
- Spacious 1.3 cu. ft. capacity is a good size for most families.
- Includes useful safety and convenience features like a child lock and timer.
TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
- Mute function allows for silent operation.
- Child safety lock helps prevent unintended use.
- Compact size is ideal for smaller kitchens, dorms, or apartments.
- Multiple presets and 11 power levels offer cooking flexibility.
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
- Compact size is ideal for small kitchens or dorms.
- User-friendly interface with clear digital display and pre-set buttons.
- Convenient '30 Seconds Express Cooking' function.
- Includes a child safety lock for added security.
BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
- Easy-to-use controls with a clear digital display.
- Convenient one-touch presets for common foods.
- Includes useful features like a child lock and 30-second express button.
- Compact footprint suitable for smaller kitchens or limited counter space.
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6" Carousel Turntable
- Modern aesthetic with LED lighting and a clear display.
- Convenient one-touch 'Express Cook' and '+30 seconds' functions.
- Compact size is well-suited for smaller kitchens or apartments.
- Turntable ensures even heating for most standard dishes.
COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
- Multiple express and pre-set cooking functions for convenience.
- Energy-saving Eco Mode helps reduce standby power usage.
- Silent mode option to mute all beeps and alerts.
- Includes a child safety lock for added peace of mind.
IC International Concepts
- Solid parawood construction with a durable butcher block top.
- Compact footprint is ideal for smaller kitchens and tight spaces.
- Offers useful storage with two generously sized shelves.
- Easy to move and secure with four casters, two of which are lockable.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft.
- Versatile cooking with 10 power levels and multiple presets.
- User-friendly features like a mute option, +30 sec button, and child lock.
- Compact, modern design fits well in most kitchens without taking up excess space.
- Memory function allows for quick one-touch access to frequently used settings.
Detailed Reviews of the Best Overall Microwave
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor - Smart Sensor technology prevents overcooking by auto-adjusting time.
This 1000-watt microwave offers a solid combination of power and smart features for everyday kitchen use. The standout function is the smart sensor, which automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on the food's humidity. This is particularly effective for reheating leftovers, as it helps prevent them from becoming dry or rubbery.
The one-touch start for 1-6 minutes is very convenient for quick tasks. With 10 power levels and 6 presets, it provides enough flexibility for most common foods, from defrosting meat to cooking vegetables. The unit's external dimensions are fairly standard for a countertop model, but it's always wise to measure your space.
The 12.4-inch turntable is a good size, accommodating a standard dinner plate without issue. Overall, it's a capable and user-friendly appliance that performs its core functions well, with some modern conveniences that simplify the cooking process.
Pros
- Smart Sensor technology prevents overcooking by auto-adjusting time.
- 1000 watts of power provides fast and even heating.
- Convenient one-touch start for common cooking times (1-6 min).
- Versatile defrost options by either weight or time.
- The 12.4-inch turntable fits most standard dinner plates.
- 10 distinct power levels offer precise cooking control.
Cons
- The 1600-watt input power is somewhat high for a 1000-watt output appliance.
- Internal height of 8.3 inches might be restrictive for taller items.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. - Compact size is ideal for small kitchens or dorms.
This Chefman 700W microwave is a solid choice for those with limited space, such as in a dorm room, small apartment, or office kitchen. Its compact footprint is its main advantage, but it doesn't skimp on useful features. The digital controls are intuitive, offering six common presets, a quick +30 seconds button, and ten distinct power levels for everything from melting butter to reheating a meal.
I found the special features like the mute option, which silences all beeps, and the child safety lock to be particularly thoughtful additions. While its 700-watt power means it won't cook as quickly as larger, more powerful models, it handles everyday reheating and cooking tasks reliably. The memory function is a nice touch for programming a go-to setting.
The unit is also easy to maintain, with a wipe-clean exterior and a dishwasher-safe glass turntable, making it a practical and functional appliance for daily use.
Pros
- Compact size is ideal for small kitchens or dorms.
- Includes thoughtful features like a mute function and child lock.
- User-friendly digital controls with helpful presets and a memory function.
- Ten adjustable power levels provide good cooking versatility.
- Easy-to-clean surfaces and a dishwasher-safe turntable.
Cons
- The 700W power may lead to longer cooking times than higher-wattage units.
- Smaller interior capacity might not fit oversized dinner plates or large containers.
Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts - Powerful 1000-watt output with 10 adjustable power levels.
This Farberware microwave is a capable and well-rounded appliance for everyday kitchen needs. With 1000 watts of power and ten adjustable levels, it handles tasks from reheating leftovers to cooking full meals with consistent results. The 1.3 cubic foot capacity strikes a nice balance, offering enough interior space for standard dinner plates without demanding excessive counter space, making it suitable for apartments or smaller kitchens.
The one-touch cooking presets for items like popcorn and potatoes are convenient for quick meals, and the defrost options by weight or time are quite effective. The digital LED display is bright and easy to read, and features like the kitchen timer and interior light add to its usability. The child safety lock is a thoughtful addition for households with young children, making this a practical and functional unit that covers all the essential bases.
Pros
- Powerful 1000-watt output with 10 adjustable power levels.
- Convenient one-touch presets for popular food items.
- Spacious 1.3 cu. ft. capacity is a good size for most families.
- Includes useful safety and convenience features like a child lock and timer.
- Flexible defrosting options by either weight or time.
Cons
- Lacks advanced cooking functions like convection or sensor cooking.
- The design is functional but may be considered basic compared to high-end models.
TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus - Mute function allows for silent operation.
This 900-watt microwave is a solid option for kitchens with limited counter space. Its external dimensions are quite compact, and it handles daily tasks like reheating and defrosting effectively. The 11 power levels offer good control, and the 6 presets for common items like popcorn and potatoes are a convenient touch.
The one-touch start for 1-6 minutes is also very practical for quick heating. Two features that stand out are the child safety lock, which provides peace of mind for families, and the ability to mute the beeper—a welcome function for those who dislike the constant alerts. The 10.6-inch turntable accommodates standard dinner plates, but it's worth noting the internal capacity is modest, so it might not be suitable for very large casserole dishes.
Overall, it's a functional and user-friendly appliance with several thoughtful features for everyday use.
Pros
- Mute function allows for silent operation.
- Child safety lock helps prevent unintended use.
- Compact size is ideal for smaller kitchens, dorms, or apartments.
- Multiple presets and 11 power levels offer cooking flexibility.
- Convenient one-touch start for 1-6 minutes of cooking.
Cons
- Internal capacity is limited and may not fit larger dishes or cookware.
- At 900 watts, it may cook slightly slower than more powerful models.
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door - Compact size is ideal for small kitchens or dorms.
This 700-watt microwave is a solid option for those with limited counter space. Its compact dimensions (17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”) make it ideal for apartments, dorm rooms, or office break rooms. The control panel is straightforward, with a large, easy-to-read LED display and several useful pre-programmed buttons for common items like popcorn and beverages.
The 30-second express cooking feature is particularly convenient for quick reheating. While 700 watts is on the lower end of the power spectrum, it's perfectly adequate for daily tasks like defrosting, reheating leftovers, and cooking single meals. The 10-inch turntable accommodates a standard dinner plate, and features like the child safety lock and interior light are practical additions.
Overall, it performs reliably as a basic, everyday microwave, offering a good balance of features and size for its intended use.
Pros
- Compact size is ideal for small kitchens or dorms.
- User-friendly interface with clear digital display and pre-set buttons.
- Convenient '30 Seconds Express Cooking' function.
- Includes a child safety lock for added security.
- 10 power levels offer cooking flexibility.
- Easy push-button door release.
Cons
- The 700-watt power may lead to longer cooking times for some foods.
- The 10-inch turntable may not fit larger or oversized dishes.
BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door - Easy-to-use controls with a clear digital display.
This 900-watt microwave is a functional and straightforward appliance for daily kitchen use. It comes equipped with 10 power settings, providing good flexibility for different types of food preparation, from defrosting to full cooking. The pre-programmed buttons for common items like popcorn and beverages are a convenient touch, and the 30-second express cook option is great for quick reheats.
The unit's large LED display and easy-to-read control panel make it simple to operate. Its 10.6-inch turntable is large enough for a standard dinner plate, and the overall compact dimensions should fit well on most countertops without taking up excessive space. The inclusion of a child safety lock is a practical feature for households with young children.
While it handles basic tasks well, it performs as a standard, no-frills microwave, reliably covering all the essentials for everyday cooking and reheating.
Pros
- Easy-to-use controls with a clear digital display.
- Convenient one-touch presets for common foods.
- Includes useful features like a child lock and 30-second express button.
- Compact footprint suitable for smaller kitchens or limited counter space.
- Ten adjustable power levels for customized cooking.
Cons
- At 900 watts, it may cook or reheat slightly slower than more powerful models.
- The 10.6-inch turntable might be too small for larger casserole dishes.
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6" Carousel Turntable - Modern aesthetic with LED lighting and a clear display.
This 0.9 cu. ft. microwave is a solid performer for everyday tasks.
With 900 watts, it handles reheating leftovers, defrosting meats, and making popcorn without any issues. The updated design is a nice touch; the gray interior and white LED display look more modern than older models, and the interior LED light makes it easy to see your food. The one-touch buttons, like the '+30 seconds' and 'Express Cook', are genuinely convenient for quick use.
The 10.6-inch turntable is a good size for a compact unit and helps ensure food heats evenly. While it's not the most powerful microwave on the market, its performance is perfectly adequate for a small household, dorm room, or office kitchen. It does what it’s supposed to do reliably and has a clean, stainless-steel look that fits well in most kitchens.
Pros
- Modern aesthetic with LED lighting and a clear display.
- Convenient one-touch 'Express Cook' and '+30 seconds' functions.
- Compact size is well-suited for smaller kitchens or apartments.
- Turntable ensures even heating for most standard dishes.
- Weight and Time Defrost settings are accurate and useful.
Cons
- At 900 watts, it may take slightly longer to cook or heat large items.
- The stainless-steel finish can be prone to showing fingerprints.
COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off - Multiple express and pre-set cooking functions for convenience.
This microwave offers a solid range of features for everyday kitchen needs. The one-touch express cooking for 1-6 minutes and the +30 seconds button are very convenient for quick tasks, while the auto-cook presets for items like popcorn and pizza are a helpful addition. The inclusion of two distinct defrost settings, by weight or by time, adds to its versatility.
Two standout features are the energy-saving Eco Mode, which reduces standby power consumption, and the silent mode that mutes all operational beeps—a great option for quiet households. The control panel is bright and easy to navigate, and the child safety lock is a crucial feature for families. The 10-inch turntable is a standard size that accommodates most dinner plates.
It's a well-rounded appliance that balances core functionality with some very thoughtful, practical extras without being overly complicated.
Pros
- Multiple express and pre-set cooking functions for convenience.
- Energy-saving Eco Mode helps reduce standby power usage.
- Silent mode option to mute all beeps and alerts.
- Includes a child safety lock for added peace of mind.
- Two versatile defrost options (by time or weight).
- Clear digital display and an easy-to-read control panel.
Cons
- The 10-inch turntable might be small for larger or irregularly shaped dishes.
- Lacks more advanced features like sensor cooking or inverter technology.
IC International Concepts - Solid parawood construction with a durable butcher block top.
This kitchen cart is a practical addition for anyone needing extra counter space and storage. The solid parawood construction and butcher block top feel sturdy, providing a durable surface for food prep. Its compact dimensions make it a great fit for smaller kitchens or apartments without feeling intrusive.
The two fixed shelves offer a good amount of storage, with about 10.4 inches of clearance, suitable for small appliances, cookware, or pantry items. Mobility is a key feature; the casters glide smoothly, and the two locking wheels keep it securely in place when needed. While the shelves aren't adjustable, the overall design is functional and well-proportioned.
It serves its purpose well as a mobile island and storage unit, offering a simple solution to common kitchen space challenges.
Pros
- Solid parawood construction with a durable butcher block top.
- Compact footprint is ideal for smaller kitchens and tight spaces.
- Offers useful storage with two generously sized shelves.
- Easy to move and secure with four casters, two of which are lockable.
Cons
- Shelves are fixed, which limits storage flexibility for taller items.
- The work surface is relatively small, which may not be sufficient for larger prep tasks.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft. - Versatile cooking with 10 power levels and multiple presets.
This 900W Chefman microwave is a solid performer for everyday kitchen tasks. Its compact frame is ideal for smaller spaces, yet it packs enough power for most needs. The digital controls are straightforward, offering six common presets, 10 distinct power levels, and a handy +30 seconds button for quick adjustments.
Features like the memory function for saving favorite settings and the option to mute the beeps are genuinely useful additions that improve the user experience. The child safety lock provides peace of mind for families. The sleek black design fits in well with other modern appliances, and cleaning is simple thanks to the wipeable exterior and dishwasher-safe glass turntable.
While it may not be the largest or most powerful unit on the market, it offers a great balance of functionality, convenience, and modern features for its size, making it a reliable choice for daily heating and cooking.
Pros
- Versatile cooking with 10 power levels and multiple presets.
- User-friendly features like a mute option, +30 sec button, and child lock.
- Compact, modern design fits well in most kitchens without taking up excess space.
- Memory function allows for quick one-touch access to frequently used settings.
- Easy to clean with a wipeable surface and dishwasher-safe turntable.
Cons
- The compact size may not be suitable for larger dinner plates or family-sized dishes.
- At 900W, it may cook slightly slower than higher-wattage models (e.g., 1100W+).
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Overall Microwave
Size and Capacity
When selecting a microwave, consider both your available counter space and your typical usage. Compact models, often around 0.7 to 0.9 cubic feet, are ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or apartments. For families or those who frequently cook larger meals, a more spacious capacity of 1.2 to 1.3 cubic feet is a better fit, accommodating standard-sized dinner plates and larger dishes with ease. The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS, for example, offers a generous 1.2 cu. ft. capacity.
Power and Performance
A microwave's wattage directly impacts its cooking speed and evenness. A power output of 1000 watts, as seen in the Farberware and larger Toshiba models, is a great benchmark for fast, efficient heating. Also, look for models with multiple power levels—typically 10 or 11. This feature provides the precise control needed to do everything from gently melting butter to thoroughly reheating a dense casserole, ensuring you find the best overall microwave for your culinary needs.
Key Features and Convenience
Modern microwaves offer features that streamline cooking. Smart Sensor technology, found in the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS, automatically adjusts cooking time to prevent overcooking. Other valuable functions include one-touch start buttons for common times (1-6 minutes), presets for popular foods like popcorn, and flexible defrost options by either weight or time. For households with children or those sensitive to noise, look for models with a child safety lock and a mute function to silence beeps.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
A user-friendly interface with a clear digital display and an easy-to-read control panel makes daily operation simple. Features like a push-button door release and a '+30 seconds' button add extra convenience. For cleanup, consider models with easy-to-wipe surfaces and a removable, dishwasher-safe turntable, as highlighted in the Chefman products. An energy-saving Eco Mode, like the one in the COMFEE microwave, can also help reduce standby power consumption over time.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Overall Microwave
What wattage is ideal for a microwave?
For fast and even cooking, a microwave with 1000 watts of power is an excellent choice. This level of power ensures that food is heated thoroughly and efficiently, reducing cooking times for various dishes. While lower-wattage models are available and can be sufficient for basic tasks, 1000 watts provides the performance needed for more demanding jobs. It’s a common feature in many top-rated models and is a key factor when searching for the best overall microwave for your kitchen.
How do I choose the right size microwave?
Choosing the right size depends on your kitchen space and cooking habits. Compact models, around 0.7 to 0.9 cubic feet, are perfect for dorms, apartments, or kitchens with limited counter space. For families or individuals who cook larger meals, a mid-size model of 1.2 cubic feet or more is more suitable. It's also important to check the turntable diameter to ensure it can accommodate your typical dinner plates, with sizes like 12.4 inches being ideal for larger dishes.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor this is a reliable and well-featured countertop microwave, ideal for users who appreciate the convenience of sensor cooking. it effectively balances advanced features with simple controls, making it a great choice for daily reheating, defrosting, and cooking tasks.