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Best 1200 Watt Microwave
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In the modern kitchen, a microwave is an indispensable tool, and for those seeking powerful and efficient performance, finding the best 1200 watt microwave is a top priority. These high-wattage models promise faster cooking and more even heating, but navigating the crowded market can be overwhelming.

Choosing the right unit is about more than just features; it’s about investing in quality, durability, and long-term value. This guide is designed to cut through the noise, helping you identify the key characteristics that define a superior appliance.

Our comprehensive analysis will simplify your search, ensuring you find the best 1200 watt microwave that perfectly suits your household's needs and delivers reliable performance for years to come.

Top 10 Best 1200 Watt Microwave Compared

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

πŸ† BEST OVERALL TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable

  • Powerful 1200W for quick and even heating.
  • Spacious 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is suitable for families.
  • Sensor menus automatically adjust heating time for popular foods.
  • Unique position-memory turntable for easier and safer access.
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4.7/5 Check Price on Amazon
Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor

πŸ₯ˆ 2ND RUNNER UP Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor

  • Very large 2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity fits family-sized dishes.
  • Humidity sensor helps prevent overcooking and drying out food.
  • Powerful 1200W output cooks and heats quickly.
  • Multiple convenient auto-cook and defrost presets.
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4.4/5 Check Price on Amazon
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 16.5οΏ½ BEST VALUE SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 16.5" Carousel Turntable
  • Spacious 2.2 cu. ft. interior accommodates large plates and casserole dishes.
  • Powerful 1200W with Inverter Technology provides fast and even cooking.
  • Useful Sensor Cook and auto-menu presets for convenient operation.
  • Modern design with bright LED display and interior lighting.
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4.4/5 Check Price on Amazon
TOSHIBA ML4-EM22PAIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Sensor Cook

TOSHIBA ML4-EM22PAIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Sensor Cook

  • Inverter technology provides even, consistent heating.
  • Smart sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power.
  • Large 16.5-inch turntable and spacious interior.
  • Powerful 1200-watt output for fast cooking.
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4.7/5 Check Price on Amazon
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft

  • Smart sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power.
  • Ten power levels provide flexible cooking control.
  • Convenient one-touch start and multiple presets.
  • Mute function allows for silent operation.
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4.6/5 Check Price on Amazon
Panasonic NN-SN65KW Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology

Panasonic NN-SN65KW Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology

  • Inverter Technology provides consistent and even heating.
  • Genius Sensor automatically adjusts cooking power and time.
  • Powerful 1200W output ensures fast cooking.
  • Spacious interior with a large 13.4-inch turntable.
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4.5/5 Check Price on Amazon
Farberware Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts

Farberware Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts

  • Powerful 1100-watt output for quick heating.
  • Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity fits larger dishes.
  • Multiple power levels and one-touch cooking presets for versatility.
  • Includes useful features like a kitchen timer and child lock.
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4.6/5 Check Price on Amazon
Countertop Microwave Oven with Sensor Cook

Countertop Microwave Oven with Sensor Cook

  • Inverter technology provides even, consistent cooking and defrosting.
  • Smart humidity sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power.
  • Powerful 1200-watt output heats food quickly.
  • Very spacious interior with a large 16.5-inch glass turntable.
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4.4/5 Check Price on Amazon
Panasonic NN-SN67HST 1.2 cu. ft. 1200W Cooking Pow

Panasonic NN-SN67HST 1.2 cu. ft. 1200W Cooking Pow

  • Powerful 1200W inverter technology provides fast and even cooking.
  • Efficient Turbo Defrost function thaws food quickly and evenly.
  • Good 1.2 cu. ft. capacity is suitable for small families or individuals.
  • User-friendly with a clear LED display and helpful automatic cook programs.
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4.8/5 Check Price on Amazon
Panasonic NN-SV79MS 1.4 cu.ft Smart Inverter Works with Alexa Countertop Microwave Oven 1200Watt Power with Genius Sensor Cooking

Panasonic NN-SV79MS 1.4 cu.ft Smart Inverter Works with Alexa Countertop Microwave Oven 1200Watt Power with Genius Sensor Cooking

  • Seamless Alexa integration with specific, useful voice commands.
  • Inverter technology provides consistent and even cooking results.
  • Powerful 1200-watt output and a spacious 1.4 cu ft interior.
  • Extremely easy setup process via the Alexa app.
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4.4/5 Check Price on Amazon

Detailed Reviews of the Best 1200 Watt Microwave

TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable - Powerful 1200W for quick and even heating.

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

This 1200-watt microwave offers a solid combination of power and features for a family kitchen. With a spacious 1.6 cu. ft.

interior and a 13.6-inch turntable, it comfortably handles large dinner plates and even a 13-inch pizza. The sensor menus are a standout, taking the guesswork out of reheating common items like vegetables and potatoes, leading to more consistent results. The 10 power levels provide good flexibility for various cooking needs.

Several convenience features add to its appeal. The position memory turntable, which returns to its starting point, is a thoughtful touch for safely removing hot mugs or dishes. The ability to mute the operational sounds is another welcome option.

The black stainless-steel finish gives it a modern look that fits well in most kitchens, and it covers all the essential functions like auto defrost and a child safety lock, making it a well-rounded appliance.

Pros

  • Powerful 1200W for quick and even heating.
  • Spacious 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is suitable for families.
  • Sensor menus automatically adjust heating time for popular foods.
  • Unique position-memory turntable for easier and safer access.
  • Ability to mute the buzzer sound is a great convenience feature.
  • Modern black stainless-steel design.

Cons

  • Its large external dimensions require significant counter space.
  • The variety of functions may have a slight learning curve initially.

Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor - Very large 2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity fits family-sized dishes.

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

This 2.2 Cu. Ft. microwave is a solid option for anyone needing significant capacity and power.

At 1200 watts, it heats food quickly, and its large interior can genuinely accommodate bigger items like a 16-inch pizza, which is great for family meals. The built-in humidity sensor is a standout feature, proving quite effective for reheating leftovers and cooking certain foods without drying them out. It works in tandem with several of the automatic presets, taking the guesswork out of common tasks.

The auto-defrost function also performs reliably for different types of meat, providing a more even thaw than many basic microwaves. Other practical features, like the ability to turn the beeping sound off and the child safety lock, are thoughtful additions that enhance the daily user experience. While its footprint is considerable, its performance and feature set make it a capable appliance for a busy kitchen.

Pros

  • Very large 2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity fits family-sized dishes.
  • Humidity sensor helps prevent overcooking and drying out food.
  • Powerful 1200W output cooks and heats quickly.
  • Multiple convenient auto-cook and defrost presets.
  • Includes useful features like a sound on/off option and child lock.

Cons

  • Large physical footprint requires significant countertop space.
  • May offer more features than a casual user needs.

TOSHIBA ML4-EM22PAIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Sensor Cook - Inverter technology provides even, consistent heating.

TOSHIBA ML4-EM22PAIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Sensor Cook

This 1200-watt inverter microwave is a powerful and spacious appliance. Its standout feature is the smart sensor cooking, which automatically adjusts power and time based on food humidity, leading to more consistent results. The inverter technology contributes to this by providing even heating and defrosting, effectively eliminating cold spots.

With a large 16.5-inch turntable and a roomy interior, it easily accommodates larger plates and casserole dishes. The unit offers good flexibility with its 10 power levels and 6 automatic cooking menus for common items like popcorn and beverages. The two-step child lock is a practical safety measure for households with young children, requiring a specific sequence to operate the machine.

Before purchasing, it's crucial to measure your available counter space, as the unit has a substantial footprint.

Pros

  • Inverter technology provides even, consistent heating.
  • Smart sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power.
  • Large 16.5-inch turntable and spacious interior.
  • Powerful 1200-watt output for fast cooking.
  • Includes a two-step child safety lock.
  • Versatile with 10 power levels and multiple auto menus.

Cons

  • Large external dimensions require significant counter space.
  • The two-step child lock may be slightly inconvenient for daily use.

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft - Smart sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power.

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft

This 1000-watt countertop microwave offers a solid range of features for everyday kitchen tasks. The smart sensor technology is a standout, automatically adjusting cooking times based on food humidity, which helps prevent over or undercooked results, especially with leftovers. Its internal capacity is suitable for standard dinner plates, and the 12.4-inch turntable ensures even heating.

The six preset menus and one-touch start for 1-6 minutes provide excellent convenience for common items. I particularly appreciate the ten distinct power levels, which offer greater control for more delicate tasks like melting butter or defrosting. The option to mute the operational beeps is a thoughtful addition for those who prefer a quieter kitchen environment.

Overall, it's a capable and user-friendly appliance that performs its core functions very well, with some useful smart features that add to its value. It's a well-rounded option for most households.

Pros

  • Smart sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power.
  • Ten power levels provide flexible cooking control.
  • Convenient one-touch start and multiple presets.
  • Mute function allows for silent operation.
  • 1000 watts of output power is sufficient for most needs.
  • Versatile defrost options by either weight or time.

Cons

  • The 1600-watt input power might be high for some electrical circuits.
  • External dimensions may be too large for kitchens with limited counter space.

Panasonic NN-SN65KW Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology - Inverter Technology provides consistent and even heating.

Panasonic NN-SN65KW Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology

The Panasonic 1.2 cu.ft. countertop microwave is a capable and feature-rich appliance. Its 1200 watts of power cook food quickly, and the 11 power levels offer good flexibility.

The standout feature is the Inverter Technology, which delivers consistent power for noticeably more even heating, eliminating the common issue of cold spots in the middle of food. The Genius Sensor is also quite effective, automatically adjusting cooking times for various dishes, which takes a lot of guesswork out of the process. The sensor reheat function works particularly well for leftovers.

While the design is fairly standard, it manages to fit a generous 13.4-inch turntable into a footprint that doesn't overwhelm the counter. The variety of auto-cook options, including a dedicated popcorn setting and turbo defrost, add to its overall convenience. It’s a reliable microwave that performs its core functions exceptionally well.

Pros

  • Inverter Technology provides consistent and even heating.
  • Genius Sensor automatically adjusts cooking power and time.
  • Powerful 1200W output ensures fast cooking.
  • Spacious interior with a large 13.4-inch turntable.
  • Smart design offers good capacity for its external size.
  • Useful features like Turbo Defrost and Keep Warm.

Cons

  • The control panel can be complex with its numerous options and settings.
  • The standard white plastic design is functional but lacks a premium feel.

Farberware Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts - Powerful 1100-watt output for quick heating.

Farberware Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts

This Farberware microwave is a solid, mid-sized option that performs well for daily use. With 1100 watts of power, it heats food quickly and evenly. The 1.6 cu.

ft. capacity is generous, easily fitting larger plates and containers, making it suitable for families or shared spaces like an office kitchen. The control panel is quite versatile, offering ten power levels and several handy one-touch presets for common items like popcorn and potatoes, which simplifies cooking.

I also find the defrost-by-weight and time functions to be accurate and convenient. Additional features like the bright LED display, kitchen timer, and child safety lock are practical additions that enhance its overall usability. The interior and exterior are simple to wipe down, which helps with maintenance.

It’s a capable and straightforward appliance for anyone needing reliable performance for everyday heating, defrosting, and cooking tasks.

Pros

  • Powerful 1100-watt output for quick heating.
  • Generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity fits larger dishes.
  • Multiple power levels and one-touch cooking presets for versatility.
  • Includes useful features like a kitchen timer and child lock.
  • Easy-to-clean interior and exterior surfaces.

Cons

  • The 1.6 cu. ft. size may be too large for kitchens with very limited counter space.
  • Lacks advanced cooking functions like convection or air frying.

Countertop Microwave Oven with Sensor Cook - Inverter technology provides even, consistent cooking and defrosting.

Countertop Microwave Oven with Sensor Cook

This 1200-watt inverter microwave is a capable appliance packed with useful technology. The main highlight is its smart sensor cooking, which works alongside the inverter system to provide remarkably even heating and reheating, effectively eliminating cold spots. This feature takes the guesswork out of cooking common foods by automatically adjusting power and time.

With a very spacious interior and a large 16.5-inch turntable, it easily accommodates larger dishes and family-sized meals. The 10 power levels and 6 auto-cook menus offer good flexibility for various tasks, from defrosting to preparing full dinners. The inclusion of a mandatory two-step child lock is a thoughtful safety measure for households with young children.

Prospective buyers should note its substantial external dimensions, which require considerable counter space. Overall, it's a powerful and intelligent microwave that performs its core functions very well.

Pros

  • Inverter technology provides even, consistent cooking and defrosting.
  • Smart humidity sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power.
  • Powerful 1200-watt output heats food quickly.
  • Very spacious interior with a large 16.5-inch glass turntable.
  • Features a two-step child safety lock for peace of mind.
  • Versatile settings with 10 distinct power levels and auto-menus.

Cons

  • The large external dimensions require a significant amount of counter space.
  • The mandatory two-step child lock can be a minor inconvenience for quick use.

Panasonic NN-SN67HST 1.2 cu. ft. 1200W Cooking Pow - Powerful 1200W inverter technology provides fast and even cooking.

Panasonic NN-SN67HST 1.2 cu. ft. 1200W Cooking Pow

This Panasonic microwave offers a solid combination of size, power, and useful features. At 1.2 cubic feet, it's a versatile capacity that fits well in most kitchens without being too bulky, making it suitable for individuals, couples, or small families. The 1200W inverter technology is a noticeable highlight; it cooks food more evenly and consistently, reducing the common issues of hot spots and uncooked centers.

The Turbo Defrost function also works efficiently, thawing frozen items quickly without starting to cook the edges. The interface is straightforward, with a clear blue LED display that is easy to read in any lighting. The automatic cooking programs are convenient for common items like popcorn and vegetables, taking the guesswork out of timing.

Additional features like the child lock provide peace of mind, and its Energy Star certification is a nice bonus for energy-conscious users. It's a capable and reliable appliance for daily cooking and reheating tasks.

Pros

  • Powerful 1200W inverter technology provides fast and even cooking.
  • Efficient Turbo Defrost function thaws food quickly and evenly.
  • Good 1.2 cu. ft. capacity is suitable for small families or individuals.
  • User-friendly with a clear LED display and helpful automatic cook programs.
  • Energy Star certified, helping to reduce electricity costs.

Cons

  • The 1.2 cu. ft. capacity may be insufficient for larger households or oversized dishes.
  • Lacks more advanced features like convection or grilling functions.

Panasonic NN-SV79MS 1.4 cu.ft Smart Inverter Works with Alexa Countertop Microwave Oven 1200Watt Power with Genius Sensor Cooking - Seamless Alexa integration with specific, useful voice commands.

Panasonic NN-SV79MS 1.4 cu.ft Smart Inverter Works with Alexa Countertop Microwave Oven 1200Watt Power with Genius Sensor Cooking

The Panasonic NN-SV79MS is a capable countertop microwave that successfully integrates smart technology with solid cooking performance. Setup is refreshingly simple: just plug it in, open the Alexa app, and scan the QR code. The voice commands are the main draw, and they are impressively specific, allowing you to ask Alexa to melt a certain amount of butter or reheat a specific food, with the Genius Sensor automatically adjusting power and time.

At 1200 watts and with a 1.4 cu ft capacity, it's powerful and spacious enough for most family needs. The Inverter technology ensures food cooks evenly, avoiding the common issue of hot edges and a cold center. While the smart features are central, it also functions perfectly well as a traditional microwave with a variety of presets, a turbo defrost setting, and a simple dial control on its sleek stainless steel face.

Pros

  • Seamless Alexa integration with specific, useful voice commands.
  • Inverter technology provides consistent and even cooking results.
  • Powerful 1200-watt output and a spacious 1.4 cu ft interior.
  • Extremely easy setup process via the Alexa app.
  • Features a modern stainless steel design and versatile cooking presets.
  • Genius Sensor takes the guesswork out of reheating and cooking.

Cons

  • Reliance on a stable Wi-Fi connection and the Alexa ecosystem for smart features.
  • The advanced functionality might be more than what a user seeking a basic microwave needs.

Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best 1200 Watt Microwave

Capacity and Size

When selecting the best 1200 watt microwave, consider the internal capacity, measured in cubic feet (cu. ft.). For families or those who frequently use large casserole dishes, a spacious interior of 1.6 to 2.2 cu. ft. is ideal. Models like the Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) and the SHARP Countertop Microwave offer this larger size. For individuals or smaller families, a 1.2 to 1.4 cu. ft. capacity, like that found in the Panasonic NN-SN67HST, is often sufficient and can save counter space.

Cooking Technology: Inverter and Smart Sensors

Advanced cooking technology is a hallmark of a top-tier microwave. Inverter Technology, featured in models from Panasonic and Sharp, delivers a constant stream of power for more even cooking and defrosting, eliminating the hot and cold spots common in traditional microwaves. Smart Sensors, or humidity sensors, take the guesswork out of cooking by automatically adjusting the power level and time based on the steam your food releases, preventing overcooking.

Key Convenience Features

Look for features that simplify daily use. A sound on/off or mute function, available in several Toshiba models, is perfect for late-night snacks without waking the household. A position-memory turntable, unique to the TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS), returns to its starting point, making it easier to grab hot mug handles. Other useful features include child safety locks, one-touch start buttons like '+30 seconds', and smart home integration with Alexa for voice commands.

Power and Performance

While all the models in this category are powerful, a 1200 watt microwave ensures your food cooks or reheats quickly and efficiently. This high power level is ideal for everything from boiling water to evenly cooking dense foods. Pairing this power with 10 distinct power levels, as seen in the TOSHIBA ML4-EM22PAIT(SS), gives you precise control for more delicate tasks like melting butter or softening ice cream, making it a versatile kitchen appliance.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best 1200 Watt Microwave

What is the primary benefit of a 1200-watt microwave?

The main advantage of a 1200-watt microwave is its speed and efficiency. Higher wattage translates to faster cooking and heating times, saving you valuable minutes throughout the day. This power also promotes more even cooking, especially for larger or denser food items, reducing the likelihood of cold spots in the middle of your dish. Choosing the best 1200 watt microwave ensures you have a powerful appliance capable of handling a wide variety of cooking tasks quickly.

What is Inverter Technology and why is it important?

Inverter Technology provides a constant, controlled stream of cooking power, unlike traditional microwaves that cycle their power on and off. This results in much more even heating, defrosting, and simmering. Foods are less likely to have overcooked edges and cold centers. It preserves the texture and flavor of delicate foods better. Models from Panasonic and Sharp frequently feature this technology, which is a significant factor when looking for a high-performance 1200 watt microwave.

How do smart sensors improve microwave cooking?

Smart sensors, sometimes called humidity or genius sensors, take the guesswork out of cooking. They work by detecting the amount of steam or humidity released from the food as it heats up. The microwave then automatically calculates and adjusts the remaining cooking time and power level for optimal results. This helps prevent overcooking and drying out your food, ensuring popular items like popcorn, potatoes, and frozen vegetables are cooked perfectly every time without manual programming.

What interior capacity should I look for?

The ideal capacity depends on your household

Conclusion: The Final Verdict

The TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable this microwave is a strong contender for families or anyone needing a high-capacity, powerful appliance. its combination of sensor cooking, a large turntable, and thoughtful features offers excellent convenience. if you have adequate counter space, it’s a versatile and user-friendly option for everyday kitchen tasks.