Detailed Reviews of the Best 10 Microwave Ovens

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. - Multiple convenient presets and one-touch functions.

This Chefman 700W microwave is a solid choice for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or anyone needing a compact unit. It covers all the essential functions with its six presets for common items and 10 adjustable power levels, which provide good cooking flexibility. The digital controls are straightforward, and features like the +30-second button and memory function add a layer of convenience for daily use.

I particularly appreciate the thoughtful additions, such as the mute option to silence the beeps and the child safety lock, which is great for households with kids. While 700 watts means it might take a bit longer to heat food compared to more powerful models, it performs reliably for its size. The sleek black design fits well on most countertops, and the removable glass turntable makes cleaning simple.

It's a well-rounded appliance that focuses on practicality and essential features.

Pros

• Multiple convenient presets and one-touch functions.
• Includes thoughtful features like a mute option and child safety lock.
• Ten adjustable power levels offer good cooking versatility.
• Compact, modern design is easy to clean and fits well in small spaces.
• Memory function allows for saving custom cooking settings.

Cons

• At 700W, cooking and reheating may take longer than higher-wattage models.
• The compact size might not accommodate larger dinner plates or cookware.

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

This 0.9 cubic feet microwave is a solid option for those with limited counter space, such as in apartments or dorm rooms. It packs a good number of features for its size, including six pre-programmed menus for common items like popcorn and pizza, which simplifies daily use. The ten adjustable power settings offer a nice degree of control for more specific tasks, from gentle defrosting to full-power cooking.

The one-touch start feature is a convenient time-saver for quick reheating. It's designed to be user-friendly with a clear display, a kitchen timer, and a memory function. The inclusion of a two-step child safety lock is a thoughtful addition for households with young children.

While the capacity is sufficient for a standard 10-inch dinner plate, users who need to cook for a large family or use oversized dishes might want to consider a larger model. Overall, it's a functional and practical appliance for everyday use.

Pros

• Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, apartments, or dorms.
• Six pre-programmed auto-cook menus for popular food items.
• Ten adjustable power levels provide cooking versatility.
• User-friendly features like one-touch start and a child safety lock.
• Sized to fit a standard 10-inch pizza or dinner plate.
• Memory function allows for quick recall of favorite settings.

Cons

• The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity might be too small for large families or oversized cookware.
• The two-step child lock, while a useful safety feature, could be slightly inconvenient for users without children.

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Panasonic NE-1054F Compact Light-Duty Countertop Commercial Microwave Oven with 10 Programmable Memory and Touch Screen Control - Durable, commercial-grade construction for high-use environments.

This commercial-grade microwave is a solid performer for its intended environment, such as an office breakroom, convenience store, or any high-traffic area. The 1000W power combined with the bottom energy feed system provides impressively fast and consistent heating for common items like coffee, leftovers, and pre-packaged meals. Its standout feature is the programmable keypad, which is a significant time-saver in a commercial setting, allowing for one-touch operation for popular items.

The build quality feels robust, from the sturdy door handle to the simple, easy-to-clean interior. While its 0.8 cu. ft.

capacity is intentionally compact to save counter space, potential buyers should measure their typical dinner plates or containers to ensure they fit. The inclusion of a Braille keypad is a thoughtful and appreciated feature for accessibility. It's a no-frills workhorse built for speed and repetition.

Pros

• Durable, commercial-grade construction for high-use environments.
• Programmable memory pads allow for fast, one-touch operation.
• Bottom-feed energy system provides quick and even heating.
• Compact design saves valuable counter space.
• User-friendly keypad includes Braille for enhanced accessibility.

Cons

• The 0.8 cu. ft. capacity is small and may not accommodate larger dinner plates or casserole dishes.
• Lacks features common in residential models, such as a rotating turntable or sensor cook options.

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BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door - Compact footprint is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.

This 700-watt microwave is a solid, no-frills appliance that's well-suited for smaller living spaces like apartments or dorm rooms. Its compact dimensions mean it won't dominate your countertop. The control panel is straightforward, featuring a large, easy-to-read LED display and several pre-programmed buttons for common items like popcorn and beverages, which adds a layer of convenience.

The 30-second express cooking button is particularly useful for quick reheating tasks. While it's not the most powerful model available, its 10 power settings provide enough versatility for most everyday needs. The interior light, child safety lock, and removable 10-inch glass turntable are all practical features that round out this functional unit.

It performs reliably for basic heating, defrosting, and cooking, making it a practical choice for simple use.

Pros

• Compact footprint is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
• Intuitive control panel with a large, clear LED display.
• Convenient one-touch buttons for common foods and a 30-second express option.
• Includes essential features like a child safety lock and interior light.
• Ten distinct power levels offer good cooking flexibility for a basic model.

Cons

• At 700 watts, it may heat food slower than higher-powered models.
• The smaller interior and 10-inch turntable might not fit larger dinner plates or cookware.

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BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door - Multiple pre-programmed buttons for common food items.

This is a functional and straightforward countertop microwave that performs well for everyday tasks. At 900 watts with 10 power settings, it handles reheating, defrosting, and basic cooking reliably. The pre-programmed buttons for common items like popcorn and frozen vegetables are a convenient feature, simplifying operation.

The large LED digital display and easy-to-read control panel make it user-friendly, and the 30-second express cooking button is perfect for quick warm-ups. The interior is a decent size, and the 10.6” removable glass turntable makes cleaning manageable. The inclusion of a child safety lock is a thoughtful addition for households with young children.

While it may not be the fastest or largest model available, it offers consistent performance and the essential features needed for a standard kitchen, office, or dorm room. The push-button door release is responsive and feels sturdy enough for regular use.

Pros

• Multiple pre-programmed buttons for common food items.
• Large, easy-to-read digital display and control panel.
• Includes a child safety lock for added security.
• Quick 30-second express cooking option.
• Removable glass turntable simplifies cleaning.
• Compact external dimensions suitable for smaller spaces.

Cons

• At 900 watts, it may cook or heat more slowly than higher-wattage models.
• The 10.6-inch turntable might be too small for larger dinner plates or casserole dishes.

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Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft. - Intuitive digital controls with multiple presets and a +30 seconds button.

This Chefman 900W microwave is a solid choice for everyday use, especially in smaller kitchens. The digital controls are intuitive, with six common presets and simple one-touch buttons for quick starts. Having 10 distinct power levels is a great feature, offering flexibility for tasks beyond just reheating, like melting butter or defrosting.

The inclusion of thoughtful extras like a mute function to silence the beeps and a child safety lock adds significant value. While its 900-watt power is sufficient for most daily needs, it might take a bit longer than larger, more powerful models. The memory function is useful for saving frequently used settings, and the easy-to-clean exterior and dishwasher-safe turntable make maintenance straightforward.

Its compact and modern design fits well on most countertops without being obtrusive. Overall, it's a well-rounded and functional appliance that balances size, features, and performance effectively for general household tasks.

Pros

• Intuitive digital controls with multiple presets and a +30 seconds button.
• Ten adjustable power levels provide cooking versatility.
• Helpful extra features like a mute option and child safety lock.
• Compact, modern design is easy to clean.
• Memory function allows for programming favorite settings.
• Eco Mode helps save power by turning off the display.

Cons

• At 900 watts, it may heat food slightly slower than more powerful 1000W+ models.
• The compact interior may not be suitable for very large or oversized dinner plates.

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TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor - Smart Sensor technology prevents guesswork and overcooking.

This 1000-watt countertop microwave has proven to be a reliable appliance for daily kitchen tasks. The performance is consistent, heating food quickly and evenly, thanks in part to the 12.4-inch turntable which accommodates a standard dinner plate with ease. Its standout feature is the Smart Sensor technology, which automatically adjusts cooking times based on humidity, effectively preventing overcooked or dry results, especially for reheating leftovers.

The one-touch start for 1 to 6 minutes is very convenient for quick jobs. The interface is straightforward, with six common presets and ten power levels offering good flexibility. While its external footprint is standard for its class, be sure to measure your counter space.

The defrost by weight or time functions as expected, making it a well-rounded and capable microwave for general use. It handles all the essential functions without unnecessary complexity, making it a solid choice for most households.

Pros

• Smart Sensor technology prevents guesswork and overcooking.
• Convenient one-touch start for 1-6 minutes at full power.
• 1000 watts provides fast and even heating.
• Versatile defrost options by either weight or time.
• Large 12.4-inch turntable fits standard dinner plates.
• 10 distinct power levels for cooking flexibility.

Cons

• The 1600-watt input power is relatively high for a 1000-watt output unit.
• Internal height of 8.3 inches might be restrictive for some taller items.

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SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6" Carousel Turntable - Compact 0.9 cu. ft. size is ideal for limited counter space.

This 0.9 cu. ft. microwave is a solid performer for everyday kitchen tasks.

With 900 watts of power, it handles reheating leftovers, defrosting meats, and cooking single-serve meals efficiently. The design is modern, featuring a stainless steel finish, a bright white LED display, and an updated gray interior that's easy to clean. I found the one-touch functions, like the '+30 seconds' and 'Express Cook' buttons, to be particularly convenient for quick jobs.

The 10.6-inch turntable is a standard size and does a good job of ensuring food is heated evenly. While it won't replace a full-power oven, it has enough power levels and presets to provide flexibility for most common microwave needs. It's a well-rounded unit that fits nicely on a counter without taking up excessive space, making it a great choice for smaller kitchens or apartments.

Pros

• Compact 0.9 cu. ft. size is ideal for limited counter space.
• Convenient one-touch cooking options like '+30 seconds' and 'Express Cook'.
• Modern aesthetic with stainless steel finish and LED lighting.
• Multiple power levels and defrost options offer good cooking control.
• Carousel turntable system promotes even heating.

Cons

• The 900-watt power level may be slightly slow for cooking larger food items.
• Interior capacity may not accommodate larger serving dishes or family-sized cookware.

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Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. - Powerful 1000W performance with 10 adjustable power levels.

This 1000W microwave from Chefman is a capable and feature-rich option for its compact size. It handles a variety of tasks effectively with its ten power levels and six one-touch presets for common foods like popcorn and pizza. The digital controls are straightforward, and the +30 seconds button is a welcome convenience.

What sets it apart are the thoughtful extra features, such as the memory function for programming frequent uses and the mute option to silence the beeps—great for late-night snacks. The child safety lock on both the door and the control panel provides peace of mind for families. Its sleek black design fits well in most modern kitchens, and the easy-to-clean surfaces, including a dishwasher-safe turntable, make maintenance simple.

It’s a well-rounded appliance that covers all the essential bases with a few useful enhancements.

Pros

• Powerful 1000W performance with 10 adjustable power levels.
• User-friendly features including six presets, a memory function, and a +30 sec button.
• Thoughtful additions like a mute option for silent operation and an eco mode.
• Includes important safety features like a child lock for the door and control panel.
• Compact, modern design with an easy-to-clean exterior and dishwasher-safe turntable.

Cons

• The compact frame, while space-saving, may not be suitable for very large dinner plates or cookware.
• The one-year warranty is standard but may be shorter than what some other brands offer.

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COMMERCIAL CHEF 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave with 10 Power Levels - Powerful 1000-watt output for quick heating.

The COMMERCIAL CHEF countertop microwave offers a solid combination of power and functionality for daily kitchen tasks. With 1000 watts and a 1.1 cubic foot capacity, it's well-equipped to handle most meals, from reheating leftovers to cooking simple dishes. The 10 distinct power levels provide good control, and the six one-touch menu options are convenient for common items like popcorn.

The digital controls are straightforward, featuring a clear timer and an end-of-cycle signal. Its dimensions (21.3" x 16.1" x 11.7") make it a standard size for a countertop model, fitting into most kitchen spaces without issue. The inclusion of Weight and Speed Defrost is a practical feature that adds to its overall utility.

While it performs its core functions effectively, it's a fairly standard appliance without many standout frills, focusing instead on reliable, essential performance for busy individuals or families needing a dependable microwave.

Pros

• Powerful 1000-watt output for quick heating.
• Versatile cooking with 10 power levels and 6 one-touch menus.
• Spacious 1.1 cubic foot interior capacity.
• Easy-to-use digital controls and kitchen timer.
• Includes useful Weight and Speed Defrost functions.

Cons

• At 35.3 lbs, it is relatively heavy for a countertop model, which may make it difficult to move.

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Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best 10 Microwave Ovens

Size and Capacity

When searching for the best 10 microwave ovens, the first thing to consider is size. Capacity is measured in cubic feet (Cu. Ft.). Compact models, ranging from 0.7 to 0.9 Cu. Ft., like those from Chefman and BLACK+DECKER, are perfect for dorm rooms, small apartments, or office breakrooms. Larger capacities, such as 1.1 or 1.2 Cu. Ft., are better suited for families and can accommodate larger dinner plates and dishes, like the 12.4-inch turntable in the TOSHIBA model.

Power and Cooking Versatility

Wattage determines how quickly and evenly your food cooks. Many models in this list, such as the TOSHIBA and Chefman 1.1 Cu. Ft., offer a powerful 1000-watt output for fast heating. A key feature in many of the best 10 microwave ovens is the inclusion of multiple power levels. Most of the featured products have ten adjustable levels, giving you the flexibility to do everything from melting butter on a low setting to reheating leftovers at full power.

Convenience Features and Presets

Modern microwaves are designed for ease of use. Look for one-touch functions for popular items like popcorn and pizza, a "+30 seconds" express button, and pre-programmed auto-cook menus. Advanced features to watch for include the memory function, found on several Chefman and BLACK+DECKER models, which lets you save your favorite custom settings. The TOSHIBA model even includes a Smart Sensor that automatically adjusts cooking time and power, preventing guesswork and overcooking.

Safety and User-Friendly Design

Safety is a crucial consideration, especially for families. The child safety lock is a standard feature on nearly all listed models, preventing accidental operation. Other thoughtful additions that enhance user experience include a mute option for silent operation (offered by Chefman), easy-to-clean surfaces, removable turntables, and clear LED displays. For enhanced accessibility, the Panasonic commercial model even includes Braille on its user-friendly keypad, making it a standout choice for specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best 10 Microwave Ovens

What size microwave is best for a small kitchen or dorm?

For smaller spaces, a compact microwave is ideal. Look for models with a capacity between 0.7 and 0.9 cubic feet. Products like the Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. and the BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu. Ft. are specifically designed with a small footprint to save valuable counter space. They are large enough to fit a standard dinner plate or a 10-inch pizza but won't overwhelm your kitchen, making them a top choice for apartments and dorms.

What do adjustable power levels do?

Adjustable power levels provide cooking versatility and precision. Full power (level 10) is great for boiling water or reheating soup, but lower levels are essential for more delicate tasks. You can use a lower setting to gently soften butter, defrost meat without cooking the edges, or simmer a sauce. Having ten distinct levels, as most of these models do, gives you granular control to ensure every type of food is cooked perfectly, which is why it's a key feature.

Are there microwaves with features for households with children?

Yes,

Conclusion: The Final Verdict

Overall, this Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. microwave is a feature-packed and practical option for its compact size. While its lower power means slightly longer cooking times, it's an excellent choice for dorm rooms, small apartments, or offices where space is limited. It offers great functionality for everyday reheating and light cooking tasks.