Imagine this: you’re craving a quick snack, a steaming mug of tea, or a perfectly reheated dinner. You reach for your microwave, but it feels clunky, takes up too much space, or just doesn’t cook things evenly. Sound familiar? Choosing a counter-top microwave can feel like navigating a maze of buttons, wattage, and sizes, leaving you wondering if you’re making the best choice for your kitchen and your needs.
In today’s busy world, a good microwave is a kitchen workhorse. It saves us time and makes meal prep a breeze. But with so many brands and features out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. You want something that fits your counter, cooks your food just right, and doesn’t break the bank. We get it! That’s why we’ve put together this guide.
By reading on, you’ll discover what really matters when picking a counter-top microwave. We’ll break down the confusing jargon and highlight the key features that will make your life easier. Get ready to say goodbye to microwave mishaps and hello to perfectly cooked meals, every single time. Let’s dive in and find the perfect microwave for your home!
Our Top 5 Counter Top Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Counter Top Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
Rating: 8.8/10
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It’s a powerful 1000W microwave with a spacious 1.2 cubic feet interior, meaning it can easily fit a 12-inch pizza. This microwave makes cooking a breeze with its smart humidity sensor and 12 pre-programmed auto menus. These menus are designed to perfectly heat popular foods like potatoes and vegetables. Plus, its sleek black design looks great on any countertop.
What We Like:
- The 1000W power heats food quickly and evenly.
- A 1.2 cubic feet capacity and a 12.4-inch turntable easily accommodate larger dishes.
- The smart humidity sensor takes the guesswork out of reheating.
- 12 auto menus offer convenient cooking options for common foods.
- The mute function is a thoughtful feature for quiet kitchens.
- ECO mode helps save energy.
- The easy-clean interior simplifies cleanup.
- The large digital display and clear control panel are user-friendly.
What Could Be Improved:
- The protective film on the keypad needs to be remembered for first use.
- A year’s warranty means keeping the packaging for potential service needs.
This Toshiba microwave offers great performance and convenient features for everyday cooking. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use countertop microwave.
2. Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts
Rating: 9.2/10
Looking for a microwave that’s just right for your small kitchen, dorm room, or apartment? The Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts, 0.7 Cu. Ft. is a fantastic option. It brings convenience and power to your cooking, all in a compact package. Plus, its stainless steel finish makes cleaning a breeze.
What We Like:
- This microwave is super convenient for making meals fast. It has 700 watts of power and lots of settings to make cooking easy.
- It offers ten power levels and multi-stage cooking. You can customize your cooking with six one-touch options like popcorn and pizza. Defrosting by weight or time is also very quick.
- The 0.7 cu. ft. size is perfect for small spaces. It cooks like a bigger microwave but fits anywhere. The inside and outside are easy to clean.
- It has a clear LED display with a timer and clock so you can easily see the time. The interior light lets you watch your food. A child safety lock keeps little ones safe.
- Farberware is a trusted brand that helps families make delicious memories.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for small spaces, some users might want a larger capacity for bigger meals or more food.
- The 700-watt power is good for basic tasks, but it might take a little longer to cook or reheat some items compared to higher-wattage microwaves.
This Farberware microwave is a smart choice for anyone needing a reliable, compact appliance. It’s a great blend of features and convenience for everyday use.
3. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 9.0/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact and powerful kitchen helper. It offers a 0.7 cubic foot capacity and 700 watts of cooking power, making it ideal for dorm rooms, small apartments, or as an extra microwave in a busy kitchen. With its sleek black design, it fits nicely on any countertop.
What We Like:
- It cooks food quickly with six handy presets for popcorn, pizza, and more.
- You can choose from 10 different power levels for precise cooking.
- The digital controls are easy to understand and use.
- The +30 seconds button lets you add extra cooking time with just one touch.
- You can save your favorite cooking settings with the memory function.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands out of the microwave.
- The mute button lets you turn off the beeping sounds.
- Eco Mode helps save energy and dims the display.
- Cleaning is simple, and the glass turntable is dishwasher safe.
- Chefman offers trusted quality and a 1-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic foot size might be too small for larger meals or families.
- While it’s powerful for its size, some users might prefer higher wattage for faster cooking.
This Chefman microwave is a great addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and ease of use for everyday cooking needs. Its thoughtful features and reliable performance make it a solid choice.
4. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 9.4/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a handy appliance for any kitchen. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks good on any countertop. This microwave is designed for easy use, making it great for quick meals and snacks. It’s compact at 0.7 cubic feet, so it won’t take up too much space. Plus, it has safety features for families.
What We Like:
- It has pre-programmed buttons for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- The 30-second express cooking button is super convenient for fast reheating.
- A large LED display makes the control panel easy to read.
- The child safety lock keeps little hands out of trouble.
- The push-button door release is simple to operate.
- It comes with a removable glass turntable for easy cleaning.
- The interior light helps you see your food while it cooks.
What Could Be Improved:
- At 700 watts, it might take a little longer to cook some foods compared to higher-wattage microwaves.
- The 0.7 cubic feet capacity is good for small spaces, but it might feel a bit small for larger dishes or family-sized meals.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a straightforward and reliable appliance. It offers useful features at a good value.
5. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 8.8/10
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven is a great choice for anyone needing a reliable and feature-packed microwave. Its stylish black stainless steel finish looks good in any kitchen. This 0.9 cubic foot microwave is compact, making it ideal for apartments or smaller living spaces. It offers 900 watts of power, which heats food quickly. The 10.6-inch turntable fits most standard dishes.
What We Like:
- The 6 preset menus make cooking popular items like popcorn and potatoes super easy.
- The mute function is fantastic for late-night snacks or early morning meals without waking anyone up.
- The two-step child lock is a smart safety feature, keeping little hands from accidentally turning it on.
- You can adjust the power with 11 different levels, giving you more control over your cooking.
- The one-touch start and easy defrost functions are very convenient.
- The LED lighting inside makes it easy to see your food as it cooks.
What Could Be Improved:
- The external dimensions might be a bit large for extremely tiny kitchens.
- While it has many features, some users might prefer even more specialized auto-cook options.
This TOSHIBA microwave is a solid performer that balances convenience and safety well. It’s a good addition to any modern kitchen.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Countertop Microwave Companion
Choosing the right countertop microwave can make your kitchen life a whole lot easier. These handy appliances reheat leftovers, cook quick meals, and even defrost frozen foods. Let’s dive into what makes a good microwave and what you should look for.
Key Features to Look For
- Wattage: This is how powerful your microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most microwaves range from 700 to 1200 watts. For most families, 900-1000 watts is a good sweet spot.
- Capacity: Microwaves come in different sizes, measured in cubic feet. Smaller ones are great for single people or small kitchens. Larger ones are better for families or if you cook bigger portions. Think about what you’ll be heating.
- Turntable: A turntable helps food cook evenly by rotating it. Most microwaves have one, but some larger or more advanced models might not.
- Pre-set Cooking Options: Many microwaves have buttons for popcorn, pizza, baked potatoes, and more. These can be super convenient.
- Defrost Settings: These settings let you defrost food by weight or time. It’s much better than leaving meat on the counter.
- Child Lock: If you have little ones, a child lock feature keeps them from accidentally turning the microwave on.
- Sensor Cooking: This smart feature senses the humidity from your food and adjusts the cooking time and power. It helps prevent over or undercooking.
Important Materials
Most countertop microwaves have an exterior made of painted steel or stainless steel. Stainless steel looks sleek and is more durable, but it can show fingerprints. The interior is usually made of painted steel or enamel. Enamel is easier to clean and more resistant to scratches. The door has a glass window, often with a metal mesh inside to block microwaves.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Microwave Better:
- Build Quality: A microwave that feels solid and well-built will last longer. Check that the door closes properly and the buttons feel responsive.
- Even Cooking: The best microwaves cook food evenly. This is often related to wattage and the turntable design.
- Ease of Cleaning: A smooth interior surface that’s easy to wipe down is a big plus. Removable turntables also help.
- User-Friendly Controls: Clear buttons and an easy-to-read display make using the microwave a breeze.
What Can Make a Microwave Less Good:
- Flimsy Construction: A microwave that feels light or has a wobbly door might not be built to last.
- Uneven Heating: If your food is still cold in the middle after cooking, the microwave isn’t heating efficiently.
- Difficult Controls: Confusing buttons or a small display can be frustrating to use.
- Noise: Some microwaves can be quite loud when running.
User Experience and Use Cases
Countertop microwaves are designed for everyday convenience. They are perfect for:
- Quick Reheating: Warming up yesterday’s dinner in minutes.
- Snack Preparation: Making popcorn or heating up frozen snacks.
- Simple Cooking: Cooking frozen meals or steaming vegetables.
- Beverage Heating: Warming up milk or water for tea.
- Defrosting: Safely thawing frozen meats and other foods.
They are ideal for kitchens where you don’t have built-in options, dorm rooms, break rooms, or as an extra microwave in a busy household.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much space do I need for a countertop microwave?
A: You need enough space for the microwave itself, plus a little extra room around it for ventilation. Check the product dimensions and make sure your counter can fit it comfortably.
Q: Is a higher wattage always better?
A: Higher wattage means faster cooking. If you want your food ready quickly, yes. But sometimes, lower wattage allows for more control, especially for delicate items.
Q: How do I clean my countertop microwave?
A: Most interiors can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tough spots, you can heat a bowl of water with lemon juice or vinegar for a few minutes, then wipe clean.
Q: Can I put metal in the microwave?
A: Generally, no. Metal can cause sparks and damage the microwave. Always check the user manual for specific guidance on what materials are safe.
Q: What is the difference between a countertop and a built-in microwave?
A: A countertop microwave sits on your counter. A built-in microwave is designed to be installed into cabinetry, often looking more seamless in the kitchen.
Q: How long do countertop microwaves usually last?
A: With good care, most countertop microwaves can last 5 to 10 years.
Q: Do I need a turntable?
A: A turntable helps food cook more evenly by rotating it. While not strictly necessary for all models, it’s a feature that improves cooking results for most users.
Q: What does “sensor cooking” mean?
A: Sensor cooking uses humidity sensors to figure out how long to cook your food. It takes the guesswork out of reheating and cooking.
Q: Are there microwaves that don’t have a turntable?
A: Yes, some models, especially flatbed microwaves, don’t have a turntable. They use a different technology to cook food evenly.
Q: What are the most common microwave sizes?
A: Common sizes are small (under 1 cubic foot), medium (1 to 1.5 cubic feet), and large (over 1.5 cubic feet). Choose based on how much food you usually heat.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.