Ever felt that pang of hunger, only to stare blankly at a pile of ingredients, wishing for a quick and easy meal solution? In today’s fast-paced world, the humble countertop microwave oven is more than just a kitchen appliance; it’s a culinary superhero. But navigating the sea of brands, features, and sizes can feel like trying to solve a puzzle blindfolded. Do you need a compact model for a small kitchen, or a powerful one for family-sized meals? The sheer volume of choices can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what truly matters.
Choosing the perfect countertop microwave shouldn’t be a headache. That’s why we’re diving deep into what makes a great microwave oven. We’ll explore the essential features you should look for, break down confusing jargon, and highlight some of the best options available to help you find the one that fits your needs and budget. Get ready to transform your meal prep game and discover the countertop microwave that will become your new kitchen best friend.
Our Top 5 Countertop Microwave Oven Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Countertop Microwave Oven Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
Rating: 9.2/10
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS is a powerful and smart countertop microwave that makes cooking and reheating a breeze. With its generous 1.2 cubic feet capacity, it easily fits a 12-inch pizza, making it ideal for family meals. The sleek black design complements any kitchen decor. This microwave is packed with features designed for convenience, including a smart humidity sensor that ensures your food is heated perfectly every time.
What We Like:
- The smart humidity sensor takes the guesswork out of reheating, giving you perfectly cooked food.
- It boasts 12 auto menus, so you can easily heat popular items like pizza, potatoes, and vegetables with just a touch.
- The mute function is a lifesaver for those who prefer a quieter kitchen; simply press and hold the “8” button to turn it off.
- Its 1000W power means it heats food quickly and efficiently.
- The large interior and 12.4-inch turntable accommodate larger dishes and even a 12-inch pizza.
- An ECO mode helps save energy.
- The easy-clean interior makes wiping up spills simple.
What Could Be Improved:
- The control panel might take a moment to get used to, but the protective film needs to be removed before use.
- A 1-year warranty is standard, but longer coverage would offer more peace of mind.
This Toshiba microwave offers a great combination of power, convenience, and smart features for everyday kitchen tasks. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and user-friendly microwave.
2. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 9.4/10
Meet the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven. This 0.7 cubic foot microwave is a great addition to any kitchen. It has a sleek stainless steel finish. It’s perfect for heating up leftovers, making popcorn, or cooking quick meals.
What We Like:
- It comes with pre-programmed buttons for popular foods like popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and frozen vegetables.
- The 30-second express cooking feature is super handy for when you’re in a hurry.
- The large LED display makes it easy to see the time and settings.
- A child safety lock gives parents peace of mind.
- The interior light helps you see your food as it cooks.
- The removable 10-inch glass turntable is easy to clean.
- The push-button door release opens the door quickly.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 700-watt cooking power is a bit lower than some other microwaves, meaning some cooking tasks might take a little longer.
- While it has many features, some users might prefer more advanced cooking options.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave offers a good balance of features and convenience for everyday use. It’s a solid choice for basic microwave needs.
3. Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts
Rating: 9.0/10
Introducing the Farberware Countertop Microwave, a compact powerhouse perfect for small kitchens. This 700-watt microwave offers 0.7 cubic feet of cooking space, making it ideal for apartments, dorm rooms, or any area where space is limited. Its stainless steel finish is not only stylish but also easy to clean, ensuring your appliance stays looking its best.
What We Like:
- It’s a convenient microwave. You can prepare meals quickly.
- It has 700 watts of power. It offers many settings for fast cooking.
- The microwave has ten power levels. You can also use multi-stage cooking.
- It includes six one-touch options. These are for popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- You can defrost by weight or time. This makes tasks easier.
- The size is perfect at 0.7 cu ft. It offers full-sized cooking in a small package.
- The interior and exterior are easy to clean.
- It has a clear LED display. This shows the kitchen timer and clock.
- Interior lighting lets you see your food.
- A child safety lock adds extra security.
- Farberware is a trusted brand. They help families make memories with meals.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 700-watt power might be less powerful than larger microwaves.
- With only 0.7 cu ft, it may not fit larger dishes.
This Farberware microwave is a great addition to any small space. It offers useful features and a user-friendly design.
4. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 9.5/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. This 0.7 cubic foot, 700-watt microwave oven offers convenience and power in a compact design. It features 10 power levels and 6 cooking presets, including popcorn, pizza, and beverages, making meal prep a breeze. The one-touch express cook function lets you quickly set cooking times. Plus, its sleek black finish and modern design will complement any kitchen decor. Safety is also a priority with a child safety lock and a mute button for quiet operation.
What We Like:
- The 6 cooking presets make it super easy to heat up common foods like popcorn or potatoes.
- You can choose from 10 different power levels to cook your food just right.
- The +30 seconds button is handy for adding extra cooking time without restarting.
- The memory function lets you save your favorite cooking settings for quick access.
- The child safety lock gives you peace of mind.
- The mute button is great for not disturbing others.
- The Eco Mode saves energy and you can turn off the display when not in use.
- Cleaning is simple, and the glass turntable is dishwasher safe.
- It’s cETL approved and comes with a 1-year assurance from Chefman.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be small for larger families or cooking big meals.
This Chefman microwave is a reliable and user-friendly appliance. It’s a great choice for small kitchens or anyone looking for a dependable microwave for everyday use.
5. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 9.4/10
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven is a sleek and functional appliance designed for modern living. Its compact 0.9 cu ft size makes it ideal for apartments and smaller kitchens. The stylish black stainless steel finish adds a touch of elegance, and the LED lighting inside makes it easy to see your food while it cooks. This microwave offers a great mix of convenience and safety features, making it a practical addition to any home.
What We Like:
- Powerful Cooking: With 900 watts of microwave output power, it heats and cooks food quickly and efficiently.
- User-Friendly Presets: Six auto menus for popcorn, pizza, potatoes, and more take the guesswork out of cooking common items.
- Flexible Power: Eleven different power levels give you precise control for various cooking tasks, from defrosting to simmering.
- Convenient Features: Easy defrost by weight or time, and one-touch start for quick 1-6 minute cooking at full power are super handy.
- Quiet Operation: The mute function lets you turn off the beeping sound, perfect for early mornings or late nights.
- Safety First: A two-step child lock feature is included to prevent accidental operation by little ones.
- Spacious Interior: The 10.6-inch removable glass turntable fits most standard dishes and is easy to clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- Input Power: The 1400 watt input power is higher than the output power, which is standard but worth noting.
- Child Lock Activation: While a great safety feature, users need to follow specific steps to activate it, which might require a quick look at the manual.
This TOSHIBA microwave is a fantastic choice for anyone needing a reliable and feature-rich compact oven. Its thoughtful design and ease of use make it a standout appliance.
Your Guide to Finding the Best Countertop Microwave Oven
Why You Need a Countertop Microwave
A countertop microwave is a kitchen workhorse. It heats leftovers, cooks popcorn, and defrosts food quickly. Having one makes meal prep faster and easier. This guide helps you choose the right microwave for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
1. Wattage (Power)
Microwaves come in different power levels, measured in watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most models are between 700 and 1200 watts. For everyday use, 900-1000 watts is a good choice. If you cook a lot, aim for 1100 watts or more.
2. Capacity (Size)
Microwave capacity is measured in cubic feet. Small microwaves are around 0.7 cubic feet, good for single servings. Medium ones are about 1.0 to 1.5 cubic feet, suitable for families. Large microwaves are over 1.6 cubic feet for bigger meals and dishes.
3. Cooking Presets
Many microwaves have buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, and baked potatoes. These presets take the guesswork out of cooking. Some also have sensor cooking, which adjusts time and power based on the food’s steam.
4. Turntable
A turntable rotates food for even heating. Most microwaves have one. Some have larger turntables that fit bigger dishes. Ensure the turntable is easy to remove for cleaning.
5. Controls
Microwaves have different control panels. Digital panels are easy to use with clear buttons. Touch controls look sleek but can be harder to clean. Look for controls that are intuitive and simple to understand.
Important Materials
The inside of a microwave is usually made of stainless steel or painted metal. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean. Painted metal is less expensive but can chip or scratch over time. The outer casing is often plastic or stainless steel. Stainless steel looks nicer and lasts longer.
What Makes a Microwave Great (or Not So Great)
Factors That Improve Quality
- Even Heating: A good microwave heats food evenly without hot spots.
- Durability: Well-built microwaves last for many years.
- Ease of Cleaning: Smooth interiors and removable turntables make cleaning simple.
- Quiet Operation: Some microwaves are noisy. Quieter models are more pleasant to use.
Factors That Reduce Quality
- Uneven Heating: This is a common problem that makes food cook poorly.
- Cheap Materials: Plastic parts can break easily.
- Difficult Controls: Confusing buttons make it hard to use the microwave.
- Short Lifespan: Microwaves that break down quickly are a waste of money.
User Experience and Use Cases
A countertop microwave is perfect for quick meals, reheating leftovers, and making snacks. It’s great for students, busy professionals, and families. You can use it to melt butter, steam vegetables, or cook simple dishes.
Consider how you’ll use it most. If you just need to reheat a plate, a smaller, basic model works well. If you plan to cook more, look for higher wattage and more features. Think about the space you have on your counter too. Measure before you buy!
Frequently Asked Questions about Countertop Microwaves
Q: What is the average lifespan of a countertop microwave?
A: Most countertop microwaves last between 7 to 10 years with regular use.
Q: How do I clean my microwave?
A: You can clean it with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tough stains, heat a bowl of water with lemon slices inside for a few minutes, then wipe clean.
Q: Is a higher wattage always better?
A: Higher wattage means faster cooking, but it’s not always necessary. For basic reheating, a lower wattage is fine. For more cooking, higher wattage is better.
Q: What does “capacity” mean for a microwave?
A: Capacity refers to the internal space inside the microwave, measured in cubic feet. It tells you how large of a dish you can fit inside.
Q: Are sensor cooking features worth it?
A: Sensor cooking can be very helpful. It automatically adjusts cooking time and power, leading to better results for many foods.
Q: Can I put metal in my microwave?
A: No, you should never put metal in a microwave. It can cause sparks and damage the appliance.
Q: What are some common microwave problems?
A: Common issues include uneven heating, the turntable not spinning, and the microwave not starting.
Q: How much counter space does a microwave typically need?
A: Countertop microwaves vary in size. Check the dimensions before buying to ensure it fits your counter.
Q: Should I buy a microwave with a convection feature?
A: A convection feature turns your microwave into a small oven. It’s great if you want to bake or roast, but it adds to the cost.
Q: What is the most important feature to consider?
A: The most important feature depends on your needs. For speed, wattage is key. For convenience, presets and sensor cooking are great. For families, capacity is very important.
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.