The microwave has evolved from a simple reheating box into an indispensable workhorse of the modern kitchen. From quickly defrosting ingredients to preparing full meals, its convenience is undeniable.
However, navigating the vast market can be overwhelming, with countless models promising different features. The difference between a great appliance and a mediocre one often comes down to quality and long-term value.
A poor choice can lead to unevenly heated food and daily frustration. This guide is designed to simplify your search, helping you identify the best top microwaves for your specific needs and budget.
We’ve done the research to cut through the noise, ensuring you find the best top microwaves for your home and make a purchase you’ll be happy with for years to come.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Top Microwaves For Compared
🏆 BEST OVERALL TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor
- Smart Sensor technology helps prevent over or undercooking.
- Ten distinct power levels offer precise cooking control.
- Convenient one-touch start for 1-6 minutes at full power.
- Dual defrost options by either time or weight.
🥈 2ND RUNNER UP Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor
- Very large 2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity fits oversized dishes.
- High 1200W power provides fast cooking and heating.
- Humidity sensor helps prevent overcooking and retain food moisture.
- Multiple auto-cook and specialized defrost programs.
� BEST VALUE Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
- Compact size is perfect for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
- User-friendly features including a mute function, child lock, and +30s button.
- Versatile cooking options with 6 presets and 10 adjustable power levels.
- Easy to clean with a wipeable exterior and a dishwasher-safe turntable.
TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable
- Large 1.6 cu. ft. capacity fits family-sized dishes and pizzas.
- High 1200-watt power ensures fast and even cooking.
- Sensor cooking menus automatically adjust for popular foods.
- Position-memory turntable is a convenient safety feature.
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6" Carousel Turntable
- Compact size is ideal for limited counter space.
- Modern aesthetic with stainless steel finish and updated LED lighting.
- User-friendly one-touch cooking functions like 'Express Cook' and '+30 seconds'.
- Precise defrost options based on weight or time.
Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven
- Significantly quieter operation with a soft-close door and mute function.
- Compact 25L footprint is ideal for smaller kitchens and countertops.
- User-friendly one-touch shortcuts for common foods and tasks.
- Precise reheat and defrost functions prevent overcooking.
TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology
- Inverter technology provides consistent and even heating.
- Spacious interior easily accommodates large dishes.
- Useful smart sensor menus for common foods.
- Convenient option to mute the operational sounds.
Farberware FMWO11AHTBKB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Stee
- Powerful 1000-watt output heats food quickly and evenly.
- Compact 1.1 cu ft size is ideal for small spaces like apartments or offices.
- Features multiple one-touch and express-cook presets for convenience.
- Simple, intuitive controls with a clear LED display and kitchen timer.
Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
- Versatile 4-in-1 functionality saves counter space.
- Large capacity is ideal for family-sized meals.
- Easy-to-clean stainless steel interior.
- Includes useful pre-programmed menus and sensor cooking.
COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
- Multiple convenient one-touch and auto-cook presets.
- Mute function allows for completely silent operation.
- Includes a child safety lock for household safety.
- Energy-saving Eco Mode helps reduce standby power usage.
Detailed Reviews of the Best Top Microwaves For
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor - Smart Sensor technology helps prevent over or undercooking.
This 1000-watt countertop microwave performs its core functions reliably and adds some useful modern conveniences. The standout feature is the Smart Sensor technology, which automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity. This is particularly effective for reheating leftovers, helping to avoid the common issues of overcooked edges or cold centers.
The unit offers good flexibility with its 10 power levels and six common food presets. The one-touch express cook function for 1-6 minutes is very convenient for quick tasks. With a 12.4-inch turntable, it comfortably fits a standard dinner plate.
The overall build feels solid, and the interface is straightforward to navigate after a brief learning period. It’s a capable appliance for a busy household kitchen, handling everything from defrosting to preparing simple meals with consistency and ease.
Pros
- Smart Sensor technology helps prevent over or undercooking.
- Ten distinct power levels offer precise cooking control.
- Convenient one-touch start for 1-6 minutes at full power.
- Dual defrost options by either time or weight.
- Spacious 12.4-inch turntable fits most standard dinner plates.
Cons
- The 1600-watt input power might be high for energy-conscious users.
- Its external dimensions could be a bit large for smaller kitchen countertops.
Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor - Very large 2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity fits oversized dishes.
This 2.2 cubic foot, 1200-watt microwave is a substantial appliance well-suited for larger households. Its significant capacity 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 preset menus (including options for bacon, beverages, and chicken pieces) to automatically adjust cooking time for more even results.
The auto-defrost function is also quite useful, offering specific programs for meat, poultry, and fish to ensure a more thorough thaw. Additional conveniences like the ability to turn the sound off, an energy-saving eco mode, and a child safety lock add to its overall functionality. While its large footprint requires considerable counter space, the combination of power, size, and smart features makes it a capable kitchen workhorse for demanding daily use.
Pros
- Very large 2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity fits oversized dishes.
- High 1200W power provides fast cooking and heating.
- Humidity sensor helps prevent overcooking and retain food moisture.
- Multiple auto-cook and specialized defrost programs.
- Includes useful quality-of-life features like a sound on/off option and child lock.
Cons
- The large physical footprint requires significant counter space.
- With numerous features, there may be a slight learning curve for some users.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. - Compact size is perfect for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
This Chefman 700W microwave is a solid, compact appliance well-suited for smaller living spaces like apartments, dorms, or office kitchens. It offers a surprising number of features for its size, including six common presets, ten distinct power levels, and a handy +30 seconds button for quick reheating. The digital controls are intuitive and easy to navigate.
Thoughtful additions like the mute option to silence beeps and a child safety lock are genuinely useful in a shared or family environment. While its 700-watt power output means it might take a bit longer to heat food compared to larger, more powerful models, it handles daily tasks like warming leftovers and melting butter efficiently. The sleek black design is modern and easy to clean, with a dishwasher-safe glass turntable that simplifies maintenance.
It's a reliable machine for everyday, light-duty use.
Pros
- Compact size is perfect for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
- User-friendly features including a mute function, child lock, and +30s button.
- Versatile cooking options with 6 presets and 10 adjustable power levels.
- Easy to clean with a wipeable exterior and a dishwasher-safe turntable.
- Digital controls are simple and intuitive to use.
Cons
- The 700-watt power level can result in longer cooking times compared to higher-wattage units.
- Its smaller internal capacity may not accommodate larger plates or cookware.
TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable - Large 1.6 cu. ft. capacity fits family-sized dishes and pizzas.
This 1.6 cu. ft. microwave is a capable appliance for a family kitchen, offering a solid balance of power and features.
With 1200 watts and 10 power levels, it heats food quickly and consistently. The sensor cooking menus are a practical addition, taking the guesswork out of heating common items like potatoes and vegetables. I particularly appreciate the thoughtful details like the position-memory turntable, which always returns to its starting point, making it easier to grab hot mugs by the handle.
The ability to mute the beeping sounds by long-pressing a button is another great feature for households wanting less noise. The overall operation is straightforward, with standard functions like auto-defrost and a child safety lock. The black stainless-steel finish looks modern, though like many similar finishes, it may require regular wiping to keep it looking its best.
For its size and feature set, it's a solid performer.
Pros
- Large 1.6 cu. ft. capacity fits family-sized dishes and pizzas.
- High 1200-watt power ensures fast and even cooking.
- Sensor cooking menus automatically adjust for popular foods.
- Position-memory turntable is a convenient safety feature.
- Helpful sound on/off function to mute beeps.
- Stylish and modern black stainless-steel design.
Cons
- The black stainless-steel finish may show fingerprints and smudges easily.
- Its large external dimensions require significant counter space.
Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven - Significantly quieter operation with a soft-close door and mute function.
The Breville Compact Wave Soft Close microwave is a well-designed appliance, particularly for those with limited kitchen space. Its 25L (0.9 cu.ft) capacity is suitable for everyday reheating, defrosting, and cooking for one or two people. The standout feature is its quiet operation, attributed to the soft-close door and the Breville Sound Suite, which includes a mute button to silence beeps.
The one-touch shortcuts for common items like popcorn, beverages, and pizza are genuinely convenient for quick use. The 900-watt power level is adequate for its size, and the dedicated reheat and defrost functions are engineered to heat food evenly without drying it out. The addition of a child lock is a thoughtful safety feature.
Overall, it focuses on user experience by reducing noise and simplifying common tasks, making it a solid choice for smaller households that prioritize convenience and a quieter kitchen environment.
Pros
- Significantly quieter operation with a soft-close door and mute function.
- Compact 25L footprint is ideal for smaller kitchens and countertops.
- User-friendly one-touch shortcuts for common foods and tasks.
- Precise reheat and defrost functions prevent overcooking.
- Includes a valuable child lock safety feature.
- Modern design with a focus on user convenience.
Cons
- The 900-watt power level may be less powerful than larger models, potentially leading to slightly longer cooking times.
- Its compact 0.9 cu.ft. capacity might not be large enough for bigger dishes or family-sized meals.
TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology - Inverter technology provides consistent and even heating.
This Toshiba microwave has proven to be a reliable and efficient kitchen appliance. The large 13.6-inch turntable is a significant advantage, easily fitting full-size dinner plates and even a 12-inch pizza without issue. The standout feature is the Inverter technology, which delivers noticeably more even heating and defrosting compared to older models, eliminating annoying hot and cold spots.
The sensor cooking presets are quite accurate, especially for vegetables and potatoes, taking much of the guesswork out of meal prep. I also appreciate the thoughtful, practical features like the ability to mute all beeps and the simple one-touch start for 1 to 3 minutes. While the main body is black, the stainless steel door gives it a modern look that fits well in most kitchens.
It's a solid, functional microwave that performs its core duties very well.
Pros
- Inverter technology provides consistent and even heating.
- Spacious interior easily accommodates large dishes.
- Useful smart sensor menus for common foods.
- Convenient option to mute the operational sounds.
- One-touch quick-start for 1-3 minutes of cooking.
Cons
- The control panel is not backlit, making it difficult to use in low light.
- The stainless steel finish is only on the door frame, while the main casing is black.
Farberware FMWO11AHTBKB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Stee - Powerful 1000-watt output heats food quickly and evenly.
This Farberware microwave is a capable and straightforward appliance that performs its core functions very well. With 1000 watts of power, it heats food quickly and consistently, and the ten distinct power levels allow for good control over the cooking process. The 1.1 cubic foot capacity is a great middle-ground, offering enough space for most standard dinner plates without taking up an excessive amount of counter space, making it suitable for apartments or smaller kitchens.
The one-touch options for popcorn, potato, and pizza are genuinely convenient for quick tasks, and the express cook buttons are perfect for simple reheating. The interior is simple to wipe down, and the inclusion of a child safety lock provides welcome peace of mind. While it may not have the most advanced features, it's a solid, reliable unit for everyday use that gets the job done without any unnecessary complexity.
Pros
- Powerful 1000-watt output heats food quickly and evenly.
- Compact 1.1 cu ft size is ideal for small spaces like apartments or offices.
- Features multiple one-touch and express-cook presets for convenience.
- Simple, intuitive controls with a clear LED display and kitchen timer.
- Includes a child safety lock for added security in family homes.
- Easy-to-clean interior and exterior surfaces.
Cons
- The 1.1 cu ft capacity might be restrictive for larger families or oversized cookware.
- Lacks more advanced features like sensor cooking or inverter technology.
Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven - Versatile 4-in-1 functionality saves counter space.
This 4-in-1 countertop appliance effectively combines a microwave, convection oven, and air fryer into a single unit. The 1000-watt microwave function performs as expected, heating food evenly with its 10 power levels. The convection and air fry features are a welcome addition, providing decent results for roasting vegetables or crisping up frozen foods, though it may take slightly longer than dedicated standalone appliances.
The large 13.6-inch turntable is a definite plus, easily accommodating a 12-inch pizza or a small chicken, making it suitable for families. Its stainless steel interior is easy to clean, and the interface is straightforward with several useful pre-programmed menus and one-touch options. The inclusion of features like a mute function and memory settings adds to its overall convenience.
While it's a sizable unit, it successfully consolidates multiple kitchen gadgets, saving valuable counter space.
Pros
- Versatile 4-in-1 functionality saves counter space.
- Large capacity is ideal for family-sized meals.
- Easy-to-clean stainless steel interior.
- Includes useful pre-programmed menus and sensor cooking.
- Convenient features like a mute function and one-touch start.
- Combines microwave and convection for more cooking options.
Cons
- Air fry and convection functions can be slower than dedicated units.
- Large external dimensions may not fit in smaller kitchens.
COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off - Multiple convenient one-touch and auto-cook presets.
This microwave is a solid, functional appliance that covers all the essential bases for daily kitchen use. The array of auto-cook presets for items like popcorn, pizza, and vegetables is quite convenient, and the one-touch express cooking is perfect for quick reheating. The control panel is intuitive and the bright digital display is easy to see.
What sets it apart are the thoughtful extra features. The ability to mute all sounds is a fantastic option for quiet environments or late-night use, and the child safety lock provides peace of mind for families. The Eco Mode is another practical addition for those conscious of energy consumption.
While it doesn't have high-end features, it performs its core functions reliably and adds a few user-friendly touches that enhance the overall experience. It's a well-rounded machine for standard microwave tasks like reheating, defrosting, and simple cooking.
Pros
- Multiple convenient one-touch and auto-cook presets.
- Mute function allows for completely silent operation.
- Includes a child safety lock for household safety.
- Energy-saving Eco Mode helps reduce standby power usage.
- Flexible defrost options by either weight or time.
Cons
- The 10-inch turntable may be too small for larger dinner plates.
- Lacks advanced cooking features like convection or grilling.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Top Microwaves For
Size and Capacity
The first step in choosing a microwave is determining the right size for your space and needs. Capacities are measured in cubic feet (cu. ft.). Compact models, like the Chefman (0.7 cu. ft.) or SHARP (10.6" turntable), are perfect for dorms, offices, or small apartments with limited counter space. Mid-size options (1.1-1.6 cu. ft.), such as the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS, strike a balance for small families. For those who cook large meals, the very large 2.2 cu. ft. Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) can accommodate oversized dishes.
Power and Performance
A microwave's power, measured in watts, dictates how quickly and evenly it cooks. Higher wattage, like the 1200W found in the Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) and ML-EM45P(BS), means faster cooking times. Standard models typically offer around 1000W. For superior performance, look for advanced features. Smart Sensor technology, present in several Toshiba models, detects humidity to automatically adjust cooking time, preventing overcooking. Inverter technology, featured in the TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS), delivers a constant stream of power for more precise and even heating.
Key Features and Convenience
Modern microwaves offer a host of features designed to simplify your life. One-touch start buttons (for 1-6 minutes) and a +30 seconds button are common and highly convenient. For households with children or those sensitive to noise, a child lock and a sound on/off (mute) function are invaluable. Also, consider the defrost options; most offer settings by either time or weight for more accurate results. Unique features like the position-memory turntable on the TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) add an extra layer of convenience.
Multi-Functionality and Design
If you're looking to save counter space, a multi-function appliance like the Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 is an excellent choice. It combines a microwave with convection cooking, air frying, and grilling capabilities. Aesthetically, consider how the appliance will fit with your kitchen decor. Models come in various finishes, from the modern black stainless steel of the TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) to the sleek design of the Breville Compact Wave, which also boasts a quiet, soft-close door. Finding the best top microwaves for your kitchen involves balancing these practical and aesthetic elements.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Top Microwaves For
What is a smart sensor and is it worth it?
A smart sensor, often called a humidity sensor, detects the steam emitted from food as it heats up. The microwave then automatically adjusts the remaining cook time and power level to achieve perfect results without guesswork. This feature is excellent for preventing dry, overcooked meals and ensuring food retains its moisture and texture. For users who value convenience and consistently well-cooked food, a microwave with a smart sensor is a highly recommended and worthwhile investment.
How do I choose the right size microwave?
To choose the right size, first measure your available counter space. For small apartments, dorms, or offices, a compact model under 1.0 cu. ft. is ideal. A mid-size microwave, typically between 1.1 and 1.6 cu. ft., is versatile enough for most families and can fit a standard dinner plate. If you frequently cook for a large family or use oversized casserole dishes, a large model of 2.0 cu. ft. or more will best suit your needs.
Does higher wattage mean better cooking?
Higher wattage generally means faster cooking. A 1200-watt microwave will heat food more quickly and evenly than a 700-watt model. While a higher-wattage unit is more powerful, the best top microwaves for even cooking also incorporate technologies like smart sensors or inverters. These features help regulate the power output for more precise results, preventing hot spots and ensuring food is cooked thoroughly. For most households, a microwave with at least 1000 watts is recommended.
What is inverter technology in a microwave?
Traditional microwaves cycle their power on and off to achieve lower power levels. Inverter technology, however, delivers a constant, steady stream of power
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 solid and functional microwave that excels with its smart sensor cooking feature. it is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable, mid-sized unit that removes the guesswork from daily cooking and reheating tasks.
