The countertop microwave is a cornerstone of the modern kitchen, a go-to appliance for everything from reheating leftovers to preparing quick meals. Yet, with a vast market of models promising various features and power levels, selecting the right one can be overwhelming.
A poor choice can lead to uneven cooking and frustration, while a great one becomes an indispensable daily tool. This guide is dedicated to helping you navigate the options by focusing on performance, reliability, and overall value.
We’ve sifted through the noise to identify the truly best rated countertop microwave ovens, ensuring you can invest with confidence. Let's explore the models that deliver consistent results and find the perfect fit for your culinary needs among the best rated countertop microwave ovens on the market today.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Rated Countertop Microwave Ovens Compared
🏆 BEST OVERALL Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor
- Very large 2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity fits oversized dishes.
- High 1200W power for faster cooking and heating.
- Humidity sensor helps prevent overcooking and keeps food moist.
- Specialized auto-defrost programs for different types of food.
🥈 2ND RUNNER UP TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology
- Inverter technology provides even and consistent heating.
- Six smart sensor menus automate cooking for popular foods.
- Ability to mute the buzzer for quiet operation.
- Includes a two-step child safety lock feature.
� BEST VALUE TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable
- Spacious 1.6 cu. ft. capacity fits family-sized dishes.
- Position-memory turntable returns to its starting position for convenience.
- Option to mute the buzzer for quiet operation.
- Sensor menus help automate cooking for popular foods.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
- Compact size is ideal for small kitchens and limited counter space.
- Mute function allows for silent operation, eliminating beeps.
- User-friendly controls with presets, memory, and a +30 sec button.
- Includes important safety features like a child lock.
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
- Compact size is ideal for small spaces.
- User-friendly control panel with a clear digital display.
- Helpful one-touch presets and a 30-second express cook button.
- Includes a child safety lock for added security.
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6" Carousel Turntable
- Modern design with stainless steel and clear LED display.
- Convenient one-touch cooking options for quick starts.
- Compact 0.9 cu. ft. size is ideal for smaller kitchens or apartments.
- Multiple power levels and defrost settings offer good cooking flexibility.
Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven
- Significantly quieter operation with a soft-close door.
- Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, apartments, or dorms.
- User-friendly one-touch shortcuts for common foods.
- Gentle defrost and reheat functions prevent overcooking.
TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology
- Inverter technology provides even and consistent heating.
- Large interior capacity with a 13.6-inch removable turntable.
- Smart sensor menus automatically adjust time and power for popular foods.
- Convenient features like one-touch start and a sound on/off option.
Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
- Versatile 4-in-1 functionality (microwave, air fry, convection, combo cooking).
- Spacious interior with a large 13.6-inch turntable fits family-sized meals.
- Air fry feature provides a healthier alternative for fried foods.
- Stylish stainless steel finish and easy-to-clean interior.
Breville BMO850BSS Smooth Wave Countertop Microwave Oven
- Sensor iQ technology provides precise, automatic cooking and reheating.
- Power Smoothing Inverter ensures even heating without hot or cold spots.
- Significantly quieter operation and a soft-closing door.
- Useful smart presets and one-touch shortcuts for common tasks.
Detailed Reviews of the Best Rated Countertop Microwave Ovens
Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor - Very large 2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity fits oversized dishes.
This 2.2 Cu. Ft. countertop microwave offers significant capacity and 1200 watts of power, making it a solid choice for larger households.
It can handle bulky items like a whole chicken or a 16-inch pizza with ease. A key feature is the built-in humidity sensor, which works with six automatic cooking presets to ensure food is heated evenly without drying out. These presets cover common items like bacon, beverages, and oatmeal.
Beyond the sensor cooking, it includes a helpful auto-defrost function with specific programs for meat, poultry, and fish, which is designed to provide a more natural thaw. The microwave is also equipped with several convenient settings that enhance daily use, such as an energy-saving eco mode, the ability to turn the sound off, a child safety lock, and a memory function. It covers all the essential bases for a modern, high-use kitchen appliance.
Pros
- Very large 2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity fits oversized dishes.
- High 1200W power for faster cooking and heating.
- Humidity sensor helps prevent overcooking and keeps food moist.
- Specialized auto-defrost programs for different types of food.
- Includes useful features like an eco mode and a sound on/off option.
Cons
- The large footprint may not be suitable for kitchens with limited counter space.
- Features only 6 auto-cook menus, which might be fewer than some competing models.
TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology - Inverter technology provides even and consistent heating.
This Toshiba microwave is a solid countertop appliance with several modern features. The 1250-watt output combined with its Inverter Technology provides consistent and even heating, which is a noticeable improvement for tasks like defrosting or reheating leftovers without creating hot spots. The internal capacity is generous, easily fitting a large dinner plate on the 13.6-inch turntable.
The pre-programmed sensor menus are convenient for common foods, taking the guesswork out of cook times by automatically adjusting power levels. Thoughtful additions like the two-step child lock and the ability to mute the buzzer are genuinely useful for households with children or for late-night use. The quick-start buttons for 1-3 minutes are also very practical for daily operation.
While it has many useful functions, the interface remains straightforward and easy to navigate after removing the initial protective film from the keypad. Overall, it's a capable and well-designed microwave.
Pros
- Inverter technology provides even and consistent heating.
- Six smart sensor menus automate cooking for popular foods.
- Ability to mute the buzzer for quiet operation.
- Includes a two-step child safety lock feature.
- Spacious interior with a large 13.6-inch turntable.
- Convenient one-touch quick start buttons.
Cons
- The 1-year limited warranty is standard but not extensive.
- Requirement to keep original packaging for service or returns can be inconvenient.
TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable - Spacious 1.6 cu. ft. capacity fits family-sized dishes.
This 1200W microwave offers a generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity, making it a suitable option for families or for heating larger dishes.
The 13.6-inch turntable is sizable, and the unit includes helpful pre-programmed sensor menus for items like pizza and vegetables, which simplifies cooking. A unique and practical feature is the position-memory turntable, which returns to its starting point, making it easier to grab a mug by its handle. Standard functions such as auto defrost, a kitchen timer, and a child lock are all included.
A particularly useful feature is the ability to mute the operational beeps for a quieter kitchen environment. The black stainless-steel finish provides a modern look that should fit well with most kitchen decor. Overall, it's a well-rounded appliance with several thoughtful convenience features.
Pros
- Spacious 1.6 cu. ft. capacity fits family-sized dishes.
- Position-memory turntable returns to its starting position for convenience.
- Option to mute the buzzer for quiet operation.
- Sensor menus help automate cooking for popular foods.
- Powerful 1200W for fast heating and cooking.
- Sleek black stainless-steel design.
Cons
- Its large external dimensions require significant counter space.
- The keypad is covered by a protective film that must be peeled off before use.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. - Compact size is ideal for small kitchens and limited counter space.
This Chefman 700W microwave is a compact and functional appliance suited for basic kitchen needs. The digital controls are straightforward, offering six common presets, 10 power levels, and a handy +30 seconds button for quick additions. The memory function is a nice touch for programming frequently used settings.
I particularly appreciate the thoughtful features like the ability to mute all beeps and the child safety lock, which adds peace of mind. Its 700-watt power is adequate for reheating leftovers, making popcorn, or defrosting small items, though it may take slightly longer than more powerful units. The sleek black design fits well on a countertop without taking up excessive space, and the easy-to-clean exterior and dishwasher-safe turntable simplify maintenance.
Overall, it's a well-designed machine for smaller spaces like apartments, dorms, or office break rooms, focusing on convenience and user-friendly operation.
Pros
- Compact size is ideal for small kitchens and limited counter space.
- Mute function allows for silent operation, eliminating beeps.
- User-friendly controls with presets, memory, and a +30 sec button.
- Includes important safety features like a child lock.
- Easy to clean with a wipeable surface and dishwasher-safe turntable.
- Eco Mode helps conserve energy by turning off the display.
Cons
- At 700W, it may heat food slower than higher-wattage microwaves.
- The smaller interior capacity might not accommodate large dinner plates or casserole dishes.
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door - Compact size is ideal for small spaces.
This 700-watt microwave is a solid choice for basic, everyday tasks. Its compact dimensions make it an excellent fit for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or office breakrooms where counter space is at a premium. The control panel is intuitive, with a large, easy-to-read LED display and several handy pre-programmed buttons for common items like popcorn and beverages.
The 30-second express cooking function is particularly convenient for quick reheats. While it may not be the most powerful unit on the market, it handles reheating and defrosting effectively. The 10-inch turntable accommodates a standard dinner plate without issue, and the interior light is sufficiently bright.
The inclusion of a child safety lock is a thoughtful feature for households with young children. Overall, it's a functional and straightforward appliance that performs reliably for its intended purpose and size class.
Pros
- Compact size is ideal for small spaces.
- User-friendly control panel with a clear digital display.
- Helpful one-touch presets and a 30-second express cook button.
- Includes a child safety lock for added security.
- Push-button door is easy to operate.
- Removable turntable simplifies the cleaning process.
Cons
- At 700 watts, it may cook or reheat food more slowly than higher-powered models.
- The 10-inch turntable may not fit larger, non-standard dishes.
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6" Carousel Turntable - Modern design with stainless steel and clear LED display.
This 0.9 cu. ft. microwave is a well-designed appliance that balances a compact footprint with essential, modern features.
At 900 watts, it provides sufficient power for everyday tasks like reheating, defrosting, and cooking simple meals. The updated design is a highlight, with its stainless steel finish, clean gray interior, and bright white LED display that is easy to read. The inclusion of one-touch convenience features, such as the '+30 seconds' key and 'Express Cook' options, streamlines daily use significantly.
The 10.6-inch turntable is a standard size for this capacity, promoting even cooking for most regular-sized plates. The weight and time defrost functions are also quite accurate, taking the guesswork out of thawing frozen foods. It’s a solid, functional unit that performs its core duties reliably without unnecessary complexity, making it a practical choice for many households.
Pros
- Modern design with stainless steel and clear LED display.
- Convenient one-touch cooking options for quick starts.
- Compact 0.9 cu. ft. size is ideal for smaller kitchens or apartments.
- Multiple power levels and defrost settings offer good cooking flexibility.
- Turntable system ensures food is heated evenly.
Cons
- The 900-watt power level may cook or heat slower than higher-wattage models.
- Its compact capacity is not suitable for large casserole dishes or family-sized meals.
Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven - Significantly quieter operation with a soft-close door.
The Breville Compact Wave Soft Close microwave is a well-designed appliance, particularly for those with limited counter space. Its 0.9 cu.ft (25L) capacity is suitable for everyday tasks like reheating meals, defrosting ingredients, and making popcorn. The standout feature is its quiet operation; the soft-close door is a significant improvement over traditional microwaves, noticeably reducing noise.
The one-touch shortcut buttons for common tasks like beverages and reheating pizza are convenient and simplify daily use. The defrost and reheat functions seem to work as described, using lower power to avoid drying out food. Power is rated at 900 watts, which is standard for a compact model but may be a bit slower than larger, more powerful units.
The addition of a child lock is a thoughtful safety feature for families. Overall, it feels like a solid, user-friendly microwave that prioritizes a quieter kitchen experience and a smaller footprint.
Pros
- Significantly quieter operation with a soft-close door.
- Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, apartments, or dorms.
- User-friendly one-touch shortcuts for common foods.
- Gentle defrost and reheat functions prevent overcooking.
- Includes a child safety lock feature.
- Thoughtful design with sound customization options.
Cons
- 900-watt power may cook or heat food slightly slower than 1000W+ models.
- The compact capacity is not suitable for large dinner plates or family-sized dishes.
TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology - Inverter technology provides even and consistent heating.
This Toshiba microwave offers a solid combination of size, power, and modern features. The capacity is quite spacious, easily accommodating a full-size dinner plate or a 12-inch pizza on its large 13.6-inch turntable. A key feature is the Inverter technology, which delivers consistent power for more even heating and defrosting, helping to avoid cold spots in your food.
The pre-programmed sensor menus are a genuinely useful function for common items like potatoes and vegetables, as they automatically adjust the cooking time and power level, removing much of the guesswork. Thoughtful additions like the one-touch quick start buttons, the child safety lock, and the ability to mute the beeping sounds make it very user-friendly. The stainless steel and black design is sleek and should fit well in most modern kitchens.
It's a capable and well-rounded appliance for daily use.
Pros
- Inverter technology provides even and consistent heating.
- Large interior capacity with a 13.6-inch removable turntable.
- Smart sensor menus automatically adjust time and power for popular foods.
- Convenient features like one-touch start and a sound on/off option.
- Sleek and modern stainless steel design.
Cons
- The control panel is not backlit, which can make it difficult to use in low light.
- Its large exterior dimensions require significant counter space.
Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven - Versatile 4-in-1 functionality (microwave, air fry, convection, combo cooking).
This 4-in-1 countertop appliance serves as a versatile all-in-one solution, combining a standard 1000W microwave with convection, air fry, and combination cooking modes. Its main appeal is its ability to consolidate multiple gadgets, making it a space-saver. The air fry function is a nice feature for healthier cooking, while the convection capability allows for baking and roasting.
The combination mode, which uses both microwave and convection heat, helps cook food faster while still achieving a browned exterior. The unit's capacity is quite generous, featuring a 13.6-inch turntable that can handle family-sized dishes like a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza. The stainless steel finish provides a modern look, and the interior is also stainless steel, which simplifies cleaning.
It includes helpful presets and a thoughtful mute function to silence beeps, adding to its overall convenience.
Pros
- Versatile 4-in-1 functionality (microwave, air fry, convection, combo cooking).
- Spacious interior with a large 13.6-inch turntable fits family-sized meals.
- Air fry feature provides a healthier alternative for fried foods.
- Stylish stainless steel finish and easy-to-clean interior.
- Includes useful pre-programmed menus and a practical mute function.
- Combination cooking speeds up roasting and baking times.
Cons
- The large external dimensions require a significant amount of counter space.
- With multiple functions, the controls may have a steeper learning curve than a basic microwave.
Breville BMO850BSS Smooth Wave Countertop Microwave Oven - Sensor iQ technology provides precise, automatic cooking and reheating.
The Breville Smooth Wave Microwave is a well-designed appliance that focuses on smart, even cooking and a quieter user experience. Its Sensor iQ technology is a key feature, automatically adjusting power levels for reheating and defrosting, which helps prevent overcooked edges or cold spots. This works in tandem with the Power Smoothing Inverter to deliver consistent heat.
One of the most noticeable upgrades over standard microwaves is the soft-close door and significantly quieter operation, which makes a real difference in a busy kitchen. The 15 built-in presets and shortcuts panel are genuinely useful for common tasks like melting butter or reheating pizza. While it covers all the basics exceptionally well, its strength lies in the premium features that take the guesswork out of daily use.
It's a solid performer that feels thoughtfully engineered for convenience and precision, making it a significant step up from more basic models.
Pros
- Sensor iQ technology provides precise, automatic cooking and reheating.
- Power Smoothing Inverter ensures even heating without hot or cold spots.
- Significantly quieter operation and a soft-closing door.
- Useful smart presets and one-touch shortcuts for common tasks.
- Convenient 'A Bit More' button and a Child Lock safety feature.
Cons
- Premium features and engineering likely result in a higher price point.
- The 1-year warranty is standard but could be longer for a high-end appliance.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Rated Countertop Microwave Ovens
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Frequently Asked Questions about Best Rated Countertop Microwave Ovens
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Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor with its substantial capacity and powerful performance, this microwave is an excellent choice for handling large meals and family-sized portions. the inclusion of a humidity sensor and other smart features adds significant value, making it a very capable option if you have the counter space for it.