Best Microwaves: Top Models Reviewed

Microwave ovens have become an indispensable tool in the modern kitchen, offering a convenient way to heat, cook, and defrost food quickly. They use microwave radiation to agitate water molecules within food, generating heat through friction and cooking the food evenly from the inside out. This appliance is not just a luxury but a necessity for many, aiding in meal preparation with limited time.

The market offers a wide range of microwave ovens, varying in size, power, and functionality. Some feature advanced inverter technology for more precise cooking, while others boast smart sensors to adjust cooking time and power levels automatically. The compact microwave fits snugly in small apartments, whereas larger models with convection capabilities can essentially double as a second oven, providing additional cooking flexibility.

When selecting a microwave, it’s crucial to consider key factors such as size, wattage, and the array of preset programs. Size determines how much food you can heat at once and whether the appliance will fit in your designated space, while wattage affects how quickly and effectively your food is cooked. Preset programs can offer easy one-touch cooking options for specific foods like popcorn, potatoes, or frozen dinners, simplifying the cooking process.

We evaluated numerous microwaves to pinpoint those that not only meet these essential criteria but also provide reliability, ease of use, and value for money. The following section will detail our findings on the best microwaves that can become your trusty kitchen allies.

Top Microwave Ovens of the Year

We’ve scoured the market to bring you our top picks for microwave ovens that stand out in terms of performance, features, and consumer satisfaction. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen gadgets or simply seeking the convenience of a reliable microwave, our selection caters to a variety of needs and preferences. Here are the models that have earned our recommendation for enhancing your cooking experience.

Toshiba Easy Heat

We think you’ll appreciate this Toshiba microwave’s blend of functionality and style that stands out in any modern kitchen.

Pros

• Effortless one-touch operation for common foods
• Spacious interior accommodating larger dishes
• Quiet operation with a convenient mute function

Cons

• May take up considerable counter space
• Door handle requires more effort than a push-button release
• Stainless steel exterior demands regular cleaning to maintain its look

Our recent experience with the Toshiba microwave confirmed its user-friendly nature right off the bat. With the sensor reheat feature, we could easily prepare popular items like pizza and veggies perfectly without any guesswork. It felt like having a helping hand in the kitchen, especially when we were unsure about the right cook time.

The design is a sleek black stainless steel, which instantly added a touch of sophistication to our kitchen space. We noticed it became a conversation piece when friends and family visited. Its sturdy door handle gave a feeling of durability, distinct from the flimsier buttons we’ve dealt with on other microwaves.

We also savored the convenience of the large digital display. The countdown timer was readable from across the room, making it easy for us to multitask without missing a beat. The pre-programmed settings turned out to be accurate time-savers, heating leftovers evenly and efficiently.

While the microwave excels in many areas, we found that the sizable footprint might not be ideal for all counters. Also, frequent touchups were necessary to keep that beautiful exterior fingerprint-free. Despite these minor inconveniences, our time with this Toshiba microwave left us confident in its capabilities as a kitchen ally.

Toshiba Countertop Microwave

We think this Toshiba microwave is a sterling choice for those who value convenience and style in their kitchen appliances.

Pros

• Intuitive operation with one-touch start
• Power-efficient with eco mode feature
• Compact yet spacious enough for daily use

Cons

• Sound settings may be tricky to adjust for some
• Exterior can show fingerprints and smudges
• Noisy operation compared to some other models

Our recent experience with the Toshiba Countertop Microwave left us pleasantly surprised by its user-friendly interface. The one-touch start function allows for instant cooking, which we found exceptionally handy for quick heat-ups of our morning coffee. Convenient auto menus for common items like pizza and popcorn add a layer of ease that we certainly didn’t take for granted.

In our bustling office kitchen, the eco mode came in clutch by cutting down on power usage when the appliance was not active. It’s a smart choice for both our electric bill and the environment. Even with repeated use throughout the day, cleaning was minimal due to the sleek black stainless steel design, although fingerprints did accumulate over time.

However, when it came to adjusting the sound settings, it took us a few tries to get it right, which might be a tad inconvenient for some users. Additionally, while we appreciate the compact footprint that fits beautifully on our countertop, it’s worth noting that its humming could be slightly intrusive during quiet moments. Despite this, the microwave’s efficiency and design have won us over and we believe it will be a reliable addition to any kitchen.

Compact Powerhouse Microwave

We found this microwave to be a dependable kitchen companion, combining a contemporary design with efficient performance.

Pros

• Eases kitchen multitasking with quick, one-touch cooking settings
• Space-saving design perfect for smaller countertops
• Intuitive LED display enhances user interaction

Cons

• The interior might be snug for larger dishes
• A 900-watt power rating may require longer cooking times for some foods
• Some users might prefer a handle over the push-button door

Our experience with the Compact Powerhouse Microwave from Black+Decker was quite satisfying. We were especially impressed with the pre-programmed settings; making popcorn or heating a beverage has never been easier. It’s such a relief not to guess the cooking times for common items.

When it comes to design, we appreciate how it fits so neatly in our kitchen space. The sleek stainless steel exterior is a beautiful touch, complementing our modern appliances without eating up valuable counter space.

The Digital LED display grabbed our attention right away. It’s clear, straightforward, and just a pleasure to use, especially when we’re juggling multiple tasks and need to know the remaining cook time at a glance.

In smaller living spaces or for those who need a second microwave, this Black+Decker model is incredibly practical. It handles everyday tasks well, though if you frequently cook large meals, you may find the capacity limiting. And although the 900-watt power works efficiently, some dishes may take a bit longer compared to more powerful units.

We wholeheartedly appreciate the child safety look, which brings peace of mind. Additionally, the removal glass turntable washes easily and supports consistent heating and defrosting of food items. Overall, we believe users will enjoy the balance this microwave strikes between size, functionality, and convenience.

Toshiba 6-in-1 Microwave

If you’re looking to expand your cooking capabilities with one appliance, this Toshiba 6-in-1 is a versatile pick we’ve found satisfying to use.

Pros

• Multifunctionality saves kitchen space
• Even cooking with inverter technology
• Air frying feature for healthier meals

Cons

• More expensive than basic microwaves
• May have a learning curve for some users
• Heavier unit, might be difficult to reposition

After using this Toshiba microwave, we noticed how it seamlessly integrates multiple cooking functions into our kitchen routine. The air fryer mode is a hit, turning out crispy fried foods without all the oil, and we love that we can use it as a convection oven too. It’s a true space-saver, replacing several other appliances we used to juggle on the counter.

Heavenly crispy chicken nuggets have become a breeze with the air fryer function, and we’ve even tried our hand at homemade pastries with the convection setting. As avid cooks, we appreciate how the inverter technology ensures our dishes are evenly cooked, eliminating those frustrating cold spots common in conventional microwaves.

The quiet operation of this model is a bonus, as it doesn’t interrupt our kitchen conversations or compete with the dining room ambiance. Utilizing the pre-set menus makes us feel like kitchen pros, and following the included original recipes has been a culinary adventure. The touch controls are intuitive, and the sleek stainless steel design looks chic on our countertop.

Despite its charms, we do acknowledge its price may be a stretch for those wanting a simple microwave to reheat coffee. Its versatility means it comes with a variety of settings that might take some time to master. Lastly, given its substantial heft, you’ll want to find a permanent spot for it on your counter.

Chefman 1.1 Cu. Ft. Microwave

We believe this Chefman microwave would be a wise addition to most kitchens, streamlining cooking tasks with its user-friendly features and reliable performance.

Pros

• Varied cooking presets make everyday tasks simpler
• Memory function saves time on favorite settings
• Child safety lock offers peace of mind for families

Cons

• Can be somewhat noisy during operation
• May be too large for more compact kitchen spaces
• The exterior can show fingerprints and smudges, necessitating frequent cleaning

After trying out the Chefman Countertop Microwave, we found the preset options to be truly practical. Whether you’re popping popcorn, reheating leftovers, or making a baked potato, a touch of a button brings you excellent results, eliminating guesswork entirely. The memory function is also convenient, allowing us to save our go-to cooking times and power settings.

Energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important, and this microwave doesn’t disappoint with its eco mode. By dimming the display when not in use, we’re economizing power without compromising the unit’s functionality. It’s heartening to see such a feature in a countertop model. Plus, the mute option is a small but significant detail for those late-night snack raids when you don’t want to disturb anyone else.

While using the Chefman, we noticed that it’s louder than other models we’ve used. It’s not a dealbreaker, but worth noting if you prefer a quieter cooking environment. Additionally, its large size could be a challenge for smaller countertops. However, for most homes, the large capacity means cooking larger items or meals for the whole family is effortlessly manageable.

Cleaning is straightforward due to the stainless steel exterior, though we found ourselves wiping away fingerprints more often than expected. If a sleek-looking kitchen is your goal, you’ll likely be giving this microwave a quick polish regularly. Despite these few drawbacks, we believe the Chefman Countertop Microwave would serve as a reliable, high-functioning addition to any home.

Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

When picking out a microwave, consider the following features to ensure you invest in a unit that best suits your needs:

• Size and Capacity: Make sure to measure the space where the microwave will go and choose a size and capacity that fits your kitchen and your cooking needs.
• Wattage: Higher wattage means more cooking power. Look for models between 600 to 1,200 watts.
• Preset Programs: Presets for popcorn, beverage, and defrost can offer you convenience and guesswork-free cooking.
• Turntable: A turntable rotates food for even cooking. Some models allow you to turn this feature off to accommodate larger dishes.

Consider Your Cooking Habits

Think about how often and what you will be cooking:

• For reheating or simple meals: A basic model with standard features may suffice.
• For elaborate cooking: A microwave with advanced features like a convection mode or inverter technology might be beneficial.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount, especially with children in the home:

• Child Lock: This feature is essential if little ones are around to prevent unsupervised operation.
• Automatic Shut-off: This prevents overheating and potential fire hazards.

Comparing Options

Feature	Importance
Size/Capacity	High – must fit space and cooking needs
Wattage	Medium – higher wattage for faster cooking
Preset Programs	Low to Medium – depending on personal preference
Turntable	Medium – improves cooking evenness
Safety Features	High – essential for safe usage

Remember, the best microwave for you depends on your individual requirements and the features that you find most useful.

Frequently Asked Questions

When selecting a microwave, there are several key features and factors you should consider to ensure you get the best appliance for your needs.

What are the top features to look for in an over-the-range microwave?

In over-the-range microwaves, we prioritize ventilation systems, cooktop lighting, and space-saving designs. Advanced models also offer sensor cooking, which automatically adjusts the time and power for optimal results.

How do I choose the best countertop microwave for my kitchen?

To choose the best countertop microwave, assess your kitchen space and desired functionality. The microwave should fit on your counter while offering sufficient capacity and features like inverter technology, pre-set programs, and easy-to-use controls.

Which factors determine the best built-in microwave for my home?

When choosing built-in microwaves, focus on seamless integration with kitchen cabinetry, the appropriate size for the space, and features that match your cooking habits, such as convection options and programmable settings.

What are the advantages of choosing a small microwave?

Small microwaves save on counter space and typically consume less power. This makes them ideal for compact living spaces or as an additional unit in a busy kitchen for quick tasks like reheating or melting.

How do I decide between different microwave wattages for optimal cooking?

Consider wattage as it relates to cooking efficiency. Higher wattage microwaves cook food faster and more evenly. For most household needs, a microwave in the range of 900 to 1,000 watts is adequate.

What should one consider when selecting a microwave to ensure quality and reliability?

To ensure quality and reliability in a microwave, we examine the brand’s reputation, user reviews, warranty services, and build quality. A durable interior, such as a stainless-steel cavity, also indicates a more reliable microwave.