Detailed Reviews of the Best Top Rated Microwave Ovens

Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor - Very large 2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity is perfect for large dishes and family-sized meals.

This 2.2 Cu. Ft. countertop microwave is a sizable and powerful option, well-suited for larger households.

With 1200W of power, it handles heating and cooking tasks efficiently. A key feature is the built-in humidity sensor, which works with several preset menus to automatically adjust cooking time for more even results, helping to prevent food from drying out. It includes six auto-cook menus for common items like beverages, bacon, and oatmeal, which is convenient for quick meals.

The auto-defrost function is also quite practical, offering specific programs for meat, poultry, and fish to ensure a more thorough thaw. Additional settings like the energy-saving eco mode, the option to turn the sound off, a child safety lock, and a memory function add to its overall usability. It covers all the essential bases for a modern kitchen microwave, offering a good balance of power, capacity, and smart features for everyday use.

Pros

• Very large 2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity is perfect for large dishes and family-sized meals.
• Powerful 1200W output ensures fast and efficient cooking.
• Built-in humidity sensor helps cook food evenly without drying it out.
• Dedicated auto-defrost programs provide optimal results for different types of food.
• Includes useful features like an eco mode, sound on/off function, and a child lock.

Cons

• The large capacity results in a significant footprint, requiring substantial counter space.
• Offers only six pre-programmed auto-cook menus, which may be limited compared to other models.

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TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven - Combines multiple appliances (microwave, air fry, convection) into one unit.

This 8-in-1 appliance is a versatile addition to the kitchen, combining a standard 1000-watt microwave with features like an air fryer, convection oven, and grill. The unit aims to save counter space by consolidating several gadgets into one. Its capacity is quite generous for its external dimensions, featuring a 12.4-inch turntable that accommodates larger plates and even a small whole chicken.

The performance across functions is generally solid, with the microwave heating evenly and the air fry function providing a decent alternative to deep frying. The control scheme uses both knobs and buttons, which is straightforward for basic operations. It includes several thoughtful features like a position-memory turntable, a mute function, and an essential two-step child lock for safety.

The black stainless steel finish looks modern and the interior is simple to wipe clean, making maintenance relatively easy. It's a practical choice for those wanting functionality beyond simple reheating.

Pros

• Combines multiple appliances (microwave, air fry, convection) into one unit.
• Spacious 12.4-inch turntable fits large dishes despite a relatively compact footprint.
• Features useful conveniences like a child lock, mute function, and one-touch settings.
• Powerful 1000-watt output for efficient microwaving.
• Easy-to-clean stainless steel interior and a stylish exterior.

Cons

• The numerous functions and settings can have a learning curve for new users.
• The two-step child lock, while a valuable safety measure, may be slightly cumbersome for everyday adult use.

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Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. - Compact size is ideal for small apartments, dorms, or offices.

This Chefman 700W microwave is a solid performer for its compact size. It handles everyday tasks like reheating leftovers, making popcorn, and warming beverages quite well. The digital controls are intuitive, and the six presets offer a good starting point for common items.

I found the 10 power levels to be genuinely useful, especially for tasks like melting butter without splattering. The thoughtful additions, such as the mute function to silence the beeps and the child safety lock, are practical and much appreciated in a shared living space. While its 700-watt power means it might take a bit longer than larger models, its performance is consistent.

The sleek black design fits nicely on the countertop without taking up too much room, and the ease of cleaning, with a wipeable exterior and dishwasher-safe turntable, is a definite plus. It’s a capable and feature-rich appliance for small kitchens.

Pros

• Compact size is ideal for small apartments, dorms, or offices.
• Features a mute option to silence beeps and a child safety lock.
• User-friendly digital controls with multiple presets and 10 power levels.
• Memory function allows for saving frequently used custom settings.
• Easy to clean with a dishwasher-safe glass turntable.

Cons

• The 700W power level may lead to slightly longer cooking times compared to more powerful models.
• Its compact interior may not accommodate larger dinner plates or cookware.

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TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable - Large 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is suitable for families.

This 1200-watt countertop microwave offers a solid set of features for everyday use. With a large 1.6 cu. ft.

capacity and a 13.6-inch turntable, it's spacious enough to handle family-sized meals and larger dishes, including a 13-inch pizza. The pre-programmed sensor menus are a helpful addition, taking the guesswork out of heating common items like potatoes and vegetables. I found the position-memory turntable to be a surprisingly convenient feature, as it returns mugs and bowls to their starting position, making them easier to retrieve.

The option to mute the beeping is also a thoughtful touch for quieter households. The black stainless-steel finish gives it a modern look that should complement most kitchen decors. It covers all the essential functions like auto-defrost and a child lock, making it a capable and versatile kitchen appliance.

Pros

• Large 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is suitable for families.
• Sensor cooking menus provide optimal heating for popular foods.
• Position-memory turntable adds a layer of convenience and safety.
• Ability to turn the sound on and off is a great feature.
• High 1200-watt power cooks and heats food quickly.
• Stylish black stainless-steel design.

Cons

• Its large external dimensions may occupy significant counter space.
• The keypad is covered by a protective film that must be removed, which might be missed initially.

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

This 700-watt microwave offers a solid range of features for its compact size. Measuring 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”, it's well-suited for smaller spaces like dorm rooms, apartments, or office break rooms. The control panel is straightforward, with a large, easy-to-read LED display and pre-programmed buttons for common items like popcorn, potatoes, and beverages.

The 30-second express cooking function is convenient for quick reheating tasks. With 10 power levels, it provides decent versatility for various cooking needs. The interior includes a standard light and a removable 10-inch glass turntable, which simplifies cleaning.

The inclusion of a child safety lock is a thoughtful addition for households with young children. While 700 watts is on the lower end of the power spectrum, this unit competently handles everyday heating and defrosting. It's a functional, no-frills appliance that performs as expected for its category.

Pros

• Compact footprint is ideal for smaller kitchens, dorms, or offices.
• Simple and intuitive control panel with a clear LED display.
• Includes convenient one-touch presets and a 30-second express cook button.
• Child safety lock feature provides peace of mind for families.
• Removable glass turntable makes cleaning straightforward.

Cons

• At 700 watts, it may heat food more slowly than higher-powered models.
• The 10-inch turntable might be too small for larger dinner plates or casserole dishes.

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SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6" Carousel Turntable - Compact 0.9 cu. ft. size fits well in smaller spaces.

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

With 900 watts of power, it handles reheating, defrosting, and cooking common food items effectively. The modern stainless steel design, complemented by a gray interior and bright white LED display, gives it an updated look that fits well in most kitchens. The interior LED lighting is a nice touch, making it easy to see your food as it cooks.

Functionally, the 10.6-inch turntable ensures even heating, and the various pre-programmed settings and one-touch options like '+30 seconds' and 'Express Cook' are genuinely convenient for quick meals. The weight and time defrost functions are accurate and very useful. While it’s not the most powerful or largest microwave available, it’s a highly functional and reliable unit for its size, covering all the essential bases with a few modern conveniences.

Pros

• Compact 0.9 cu. ft. size fits well in smaller spaces.
• Modern design with stainless steel finish and bright LED lighting.
• Convenient one-touch options like '+30 seconds' and 'Express Cook'.
• Carousel turntable and 10 power levels provide even heating.
• Effective weight and time defrost functions.

Cons

• 900 watts is sufficient for most tasks but may cook slower than higher-wattage models.
• The capacity might be too small for larger dinner plates or casserole dishes.

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TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology - Spacious interior with a large 13.6-inch turntable.

This Toshiba microwave presents a modern aesthetic with its stainless steel door frame and black enclosure. Its large capacity is a standout feature, with a 13.6-inch turntable that can comfortably fit a 12-inch pizza. The inclusion of Inverter Technology is a significant advantage, promoting more even heating and defrosting, which can improve overall cooking results.

The six smart sensor menus are a practical addition, automatically adjusting power levels for common foods like potatoes and vegetables to prevent overcooking. Other user-friendly features include a one-touch quick start button for 1-3 minutes, a power-saving Eco mode, and a child lock. A particularly thoughtful touch is the ability to mute the beeping sounds by long-pressing the '8' button, making it ideal for quiet environments.

While it's packed with useful functions, potential buyers should note that the control panel is not backlit.

Pros

• Spacious interior with a large 13.6-inch turntable.
• Inverter technology provides even and consistent cooking.
• Smart sensor menus automate cooking for popular foods.
• Convenient features like a quick-start button and sound on/off function.
• Sleek, modern design with a stainless steel door.
• Includes a child safety lock and energy-saving Eco mode.

Cons

• The control panel is not backlit, which can make it difficult to use in low light.
• The mixed finish (stainless steel door, black body) may not suit all kitchen aesthetics.

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Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven - Combines four functions (microwave, air fry, convection, combo) in one unit.

This 4-in-1 countertop appliance is a versatile kitchen solution, combining a standard microwave with an air fryer, convection oven, and a combination cooking mode. The primary benefit is consolidating multiple gadgets into one, freeing up valuable counter space. Its 1000-watt microwave performs well, and the convection and air fry functions add the ability to bake, roast, and crisp foods effectively.

The combination cooking feature, which uses both microwave and convection heat, is particularly useful for reducing cooking times while still achieving good browning. With a large 13.6-inch turntable, it can easily accommodate family-sized meals like a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza. It also includes several convenient presets and a handy mute function to silence the operational beeps.

The stainless steel finish on the door frame provides a modern look, though it's worth noting the main enclosure is black.

Pros

• Combines four functions (microwave, air fry, convection, combo) in one unit.
• Saves significant counter space by replacing multiple appliances.
• Large 13.6-inch turntable is suitable for family-sized dishes.
• Includes useful features like pre-programmed menus and a mute function.
• Combination cooking mode helps to cook food faster than convection alone.
• Air fry function offers a healthier way to enjoy fried foods.

Cons

• Its large external dimensions may not fit in smaller kitchen spaces.
• The multiple functions can present a learning curve for new users.

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Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven - Very quiet operation with a soft-closing door.

The Breville Compact Wave Soft Close Microwave is a well-designed appliance, particularly suited for smaller kitchens or apartments where counter space is at a premium. Its 0.9 cu. ft.

(25L) capacity is adequate for daily tasks, and the 900-watt power handles reheating and defrosting efficiently. The most notable feature is the soft-close door, which significantly reduces noise and gives the unit a premium feel. The one-touch shortcuts for common items like popcorn, beverages, and reheating pizza are genuinely convenient for quick use.

It also includes thoughtful features like a mute button to silence the beeps and a child lock for safety. While it doesn't have the vast capacity of a family-sized model, it excels in its intended role as a compact, quiet, and user-friendly microwave for everyday use. The controls are intuitive, and the overall build quality feels solid.

Pros

• Very quiet operation with a soft-closing door.
• Compact footprint is ideal for small kitchens.
• Convenient one-touch shortcuts and food menu presets.
• Thoughtful features like a mute button and child lock.
• Heats and defrosts food evenly for its size.
• Solid build quality and modern aesthetic.

Cons

• The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity may be too small for large dishes or families.
• At 900 watts, it might take slightly longer to cook than more powerful models.

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COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off - Ability to mute all operational beeps for a quieter experience.

This microwave is a functional and well-considered appliance for daily kitchen tasks. The one-touch express cooking options and various presets for items like popcorn and pizza work as expected, making quick meals straightforward. The dual defrost settings, offering choices by either weight or time, add a useful layer of precision.

What sets it apart are the thoughtful quality-of-life features. The ability to completely mute all beeps is a significant plus for those who prefer a quieter kitchen. Furthermore, the two-step child lock provides an extra measure of safety, which is reassuring for households with young children.

The ECO mode is a nice addition for energy-conscious users, helping to reduce standby power consumption. Overall, it's a reliable unit that covers the essential functions effectively while including some convenient extras that enhance the user experience without being overly complicated.

Pros

• Ability to mute all operational beeps for a quieter experience.
• Two-step child lock feature enhances safety and prevents accidental use.
• Convenient one-touch express cooking and multiple auto-cook presets.
• Energy-saving ECO mode helps reduce standby power consumption.
• Flexible defrosting options, either by weight or by time.

Cons

• The two-step child lock, while a great safety feature, might be slightly inconvenient if you don't have children.
• Lacks more advanced features like sensor cooking or inverter technology found in higher-end models.

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

Size and Capacity

The first step in choosing a microwave is determining the right size for your needs. Capacities are measured in cubic feet (cu. ft.). Compact models, like the Chefman (0.7 cu. ft.) or SHARP (0.9 cu. ft.), are perfect for dorms, offices, or small apartments. Mid-size options around 1.6 cu. ft., such as the TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS), suit most families. For those who cook large dishes or family-sized meals, a very large 2.2 cu. ft. model like the Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) is ideal.

Power and Performance

Wattage determines how quickly and efficiently a microwave cooks. Higher wattage means faster cooking times. The models listed range from 700W to a powerful 1200W. For quick heating and robust cooking, look for models with 1000W or more, like the Toshiba 1200W units. For superior performance, consider advanced features. Smart sensors, found in several Toshiba models, use humidity sensors to cook food evenly without overcooking. Inverter technology, in the TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS), delivers consistent power for more precise results.

Types of Microwaves

While all the products listed are countertop models, they fall into two main categories. Standard microwaves focus solely on heating, defrosting, and cooking. However, if you want to save counter space, multi-function combo units are an excellent choice. The TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 and the Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 integrate microwave, air fry, and convection oven capabilities into a single appliance, offering incredible versatility for roasting, baking, and achieving crispy results.

Key Features to Consider

When comparing the best top rated microwave ovens, look for convenience features that fit your lifestyle. A sound on/off or mute function, available on models from Toshiba, Chefman, and Breville, is great for quiet households. A child safety lock is a crucial feature for families, providing peace of mind. One-touch presets and express cook buttons offer quick operation for common tasks, while an eco mode helps reduce standby power consumption, saving energy over time.

Design and Usability

A microwave should be easy to use and clean. Look for intuitive digital controls and clear LED displays. Most modern units feature a stainless steel finish, which is both stylish and durable. For easy cleaning, a removable glass turntable is essential, and some, like the one in the Chefman model, are even dishwasher-safe. Unique design elements, such as the Breville's quiet, soft-closing door or Toshiba's position-memory turntable, add a touch of premium convenience to your daily routine.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Top Rated Microwave Ovens

What size microwave is best for my kitchen?

The ideal size depends on your household and cooking habits. For individuals or small spaces like dorms and apartments, a compact model between 0.7 and 0.9 cu. ft. is sufficient. For couples or small families, a mid-size unit from 1.2 to 1.6 cu. ft. offers more flexibility. If you frequently cook for a large family or use oversized casserole dishes, a full-size microwave with 2.0 cu. ft. or more capacity is the best choice.

How important is the wattage for a microwave?

Wattage is a key indicator of a microwave's power and cooking speed. A higher wattage means your food will cook faster and more evenly. Microwaves with 1000W to 1200W, like several of the Toshiba models, are considered powerful and efficient for most tasks. Lower wattage units, often found in the most compact models, will still cook effectively but may require longer heating times. When searching for the **best top rated

Conclusion: The Final Verdict

The Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor this microwave is a powerful and spacious appliance ideal for large families or anyone who frequently cooks big meals. its humidity sensor and defrost functions add significant convenience, but be prepared to dedicate a good amount of counter space for it.