Tired of staring at the dizzying array of microwaves, unsure which one will be your kitchen’s new best friend? You’re not alone! Picking the perfect microwave can feel like a puzzle. Do you need a simple heater, a fancy cooker, or something in between? It’s easy to get lost in all the features and confusing jargon.
This confusion can lead to buying a microwave that’s too small, too big, or just doesn’t do what you need it to. You might end up with a machine that’s difficult to use or doesn’t fit your cooking style. That’s where we come in. We’re here to cut through the noise and make your microwave shopping trip a breeze.
By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to look for. We’ll help you figure out the best size, power, and features for your home. Get ready to find a microwave that makes your life easier, from reheating leftovers to whipping up quick meals. Let’s dive in and find your ideal kitchen companion!
Our Top 5 Microwave To Purchase Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave To Purchase Detailed Reviews
1. COMMERCIAL CHEF 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave with 10 Power Levels
Rating: 8.7/10
Meet the COMMERCIAL CHEF 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave, a handy appliance designed for quick and easy meal preparation. This small but mighty microwave packs a punch with its 700-watt power, perfect for heating up leftovers, cooking quick snacks, or even making a simple meal. Its compact size makes it a great fit for any kitchen counter, dorm room, or office break area.
What We Like:
- It’s powerful and heats food fast. You can cook bacon or pasta easily.
- It has 10 different power levels for precise cooking.
- One-touch settings make cooking pizza, popcorn, and frozen dinners super simple.
- The digital display is easy to read and use.
- It has a timer that goes up to 99 minutes and signals when food is ready.
- The stainless steel design looks sleek and modern.
- Safety features like a child lock and door lock are included.
- The turntable ensures food cooks evenly.
- It’s perfect for busy people who need meals in a hurry.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic foot capacity might be a bit small for larger dishes or multiple servings.
- While it’s great for quick meals, it might not have all the advanced cooking functions of larger models.
Overall, this COMMERCIAL CHEF microwave is a fantastic option for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly countertop microwave. It offers a good balance of power, features, and convenience for everyday use.
2. Nostalgia NRMO11AQ6A 1000 Watt Power Retro Countertop Microwave Oven Easy to Clean with Removable Glass Turntable-Child Safety Lock-12 Programs-Digital Clock
Rating: 9.4/10
Bring a splash of vintage style and modern convenience to your kitchen with the Nostalgia NRMO11AQ6A 1000 Watt Power Retro Countertop Microwave Oven. This aqua beauty isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a powerful and user-friendly appliance designed to handle all your reheating and cooking needs. Its spacious interior and handy features make meal prep a breeze, all while adding a charming retro touch to your countertop.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.1 cubic feet of interior space fits a variety of dishes.
- 12 pre-programmed cooking settings and express cooking options simplify meal preparation.
- A bright LED display clearly shows the digital clock and cooking settings.
- Stylish chrome accents and a sleek design add a classic retro vibe to any kitchen.
- The 2-action child safety lock provides peace of mind for families.
- The removable glass turntable makes cleaning up spills super easy.
- 1000 watts of power ensure quick and efficient heating.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the retro design is charming, some users might prefer a more modern aesthetic.
- The “aqua” color, while vibrant, might not match every kitchen’s color scheme.
This microwave oven is a fantastic blend of form and function. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen with a stylish and practical appliance.
3. COMMERCIAL CHEF 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave with 10 Power Levels
Rating: 8.6/10
Looking for a speedy way to heat up your meals? The COMMERCIAL CHEF 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave is a great choice for your kitchen counter. This small microwave packs a punch with 700 watts of power, making it perfect for busy days. You can quickly warm up leftovers, cook your favorite snacks, or even make a quick dinner. Its compact size means it won’t take up too much space, and the easy-to-use digital display makes cooking a breeze. Plus, the pull handle makes opening the door simple.
What We Like:
- It’s powerful, heating food fast.
- It has 10 power levels, so you can cook many different things.
- Quick Cook Settings make it easy to prepare popular foods like pizza and popcorn.
- The digital display is clear and easy to read.
- It has a child safety lock for extra peace of mind.
- The turntable ensures even cooking.
- It’s a good size for small kitchens.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic foot capacity might be a bit small for larger dishes.
- While it’s powerful for its size, it may not be as fast as larger microwaves.
This COMMERCIAL CHEF microwave is a solid option for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly countertop appliance. It efficiently handles everyday cooking needs with its smart features.
4. Genuine Fred DRAGON’S BREATH Microwave Steam Cleaner
Rating: 9.1/10
Tired of scrubbing stubborn microwave messes? Meet the Genuine Fred DRAGON’S BREATH Microwave Steam Cleaner! This fun and functional gadget makes cleaning your microwave a breeze. Its cute dragon design adds a touch of magic to your kitchen while it works its steam-powered cleaning wonders.
What We Like:
- It’s super easy to use. Just add water and vinegar, microwave it, and let the steam do the work.
- This dragon is made of BPA-free silicone, so it’s safe for your food and your family.
- It actually works! The steam loosens up tough grease and grime, cutting down your cleaning time.
- You don’t need any harsh chemicals to get your microwave sparkling clean.
- It’s dishwasher safe, making cleanup after cleaning even easier.
- Its whimsical dragon design makes it a fun and unique gift idea.
What Could Be Improved:
- You need to make sure you have both water and vinegar on hand for it to work effectively.
- While it’s great for general grime, very old or baked-on messes might still need a little extra scrubbing.
Fred’s Dragon’s Breath is a delightful way to tackle microwave cleaning. It’s a clever gadget that brings a smile to your face while keeping your kitchen appliance spotless.
5. YQBOOM 2 PCS Waveguide Cover
Rating: 8.5/10
Is your microwave oven acting up? The YQBOOM 2 PCS Waveguide Cover, Universal Mica Sheet is a simple yet effective solution to keep your appliance running smoothly. This mica sheet acts as a shield, protecting the inside of your microwave from sparks and damage that can happen during cooking. It’s a handy household accessory that can help fix common microwave issues and extend the life of your appliance. You can also use it for other heating devices like toasters and heaters.
What We Like:
- This mica sheet protects your microwave oven from burning.
- It’s a useful accessory for fixing appliances and making them last longer.
- You can easily cut the sheet to fit any microwave oven size using scissors or a craft knife.
- The package includes two mica sheets, so you have a spare.
- YQBOOM offers a 12-month warranty for your peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- This is an aftermarket part, not an original manufacturer’s part.
This YQBOOM mica sheet offers a practical way to maintain your microwave. It’s an affordable and adaptable fix for a common problem.
Choosing the Right Microwave: Your Guide to a Kitchen Essential
Microwaves are super handy kitchen tools. They heat up food fast. They also cook some things quickly. Buying a new microwave can be tricky. There are many options. This guide helps you pick the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
Power (Wattage)
Microwaves have different power levels. This is measured in watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most microwaves are between 700 and 1200 watts. For everyday use, 900 watts is usually good. If you cook a lot, go for 1000 watts or more.
Size and Capacity
Microwaves come in different sizes. They are measured in cubic feet. Small ones are about 0.7 cubic feet. Medium ones are around 1.0 to 1.5 cubic feet. Large ones are 1.6 cubic feet or bigger. Think about how much food you usually heat. Also, consider the space you have in your kitchen.
Turntable
Most microwaves have a glass plate that spins. This is called a turntable. It helps food cook evenly. Some microwaves have an on/off option for the turntable. This is good if you want to heat large, rectangular dishes.
Presets and Auto-Cook Functions
Many microwaves have special buttons. These buttons are for cooking common foods. Examples include popcorn, pizza, and potatoes. Auto-cook functions set the time and power level for you. This makes cooking simple.
Control Panel
Control panels can be simple or fancy. Some have easy-to-push buttons. Others have touch screens. Digital displays show the cooking time. Some also show the power level. Choose a panel that you find easy to use.
Important Materials
Interior Coating
The inside of a microwave is often coated. Common coatings are enamel, ceramic, or stainless steel. Enamel is easy to clean. Ceramic is durable and scratch-resistant. Stainless steel looks nice and is strong. All these materials help keep the microwave clean.
Exterior Casing
The outside of most microwaves is made of metal. Stainless steel is a popular choice. It looks modern and is easy to wipe down. Other microwaves have plastic exteriors. These are usually lighter and less expensive.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Build Quality
A well-built microwave lasts longer. Look for sturdy doors and hinges. The buttons should feel solid. A heavy microwave is often a sign of good quality. It means more metal is used.
Even Cooking
The best microwaves cook food evenly. This means no cold spots. Good airflow and a working turntable help with this. Read reviews to see what other people say about cooking evenness.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning a microwave is important. Smooth interior surfaces are easier to wipe clean. Removable turntables make cleaning simpler. Some microwaves have special cleaning functions.
Noise Level
Some microwaves are louder than others. If you are sensitive to noise, look for models that are quiet. Reviews often mention how noisy a microwave is.
User Experience and Use Cases
Quick Meals
Microwaves are perfect for heating leftovers. They are also great for making quick snacks. Reheating a plate of food takes just a few minutes.
Cooking Simple Foods
You can cook many things in a microwave. Popcorn is a classic. You can also bake potatoes or steam vegetables. Some advanced microwaves can even roast or grill.
Defrosting
Microwaves are fast at defrosting frozen foods. Many have specific defrost settings. This saves you time compared to thawing at room temperature.
Small Kitchens
Compact microwaves are ideal for small kitchens. They don’t take up much counter space. They are also good for dorm rooms or offices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important feature to look for?
A: The most important feature depends on your needs. For fast cooking, look for high wattage. For fitting lots of food, choose a larger capacity.
Q: How do I know if a microwave cooks evenly?
A: Look for reviews from other users. Many reviews mention how well a microwave cooks. A good turntable also helps a lot.
Q: Are expensive microwaves always better?
A: Not always. A more expensive microwave might have more features. But a simpler, less expensive model can still cook well. Focus on the features you need.
Q: How much space do I need for a microwave?
A: Measure your counter space. Also, consider the space needed for the door to open. Check the microwave’s dimensions before buying.
Q: What does “wattage” mean for a microwave?
A: Wattage tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means it heats food faster.
Q: Can I put metal in the microwave?
A: Generally, no. Metal can cause sparks and damage the microwave. Always check the manual for specific instructions.
Q: How do I clean my microwave?
A: Wipe the inside with a damp cloth. You can use mild soap. For tough spots, heat a bowl of water with lemon juice for a few minutes. Then wipe clean.
Q: What is a convection microwave?
A: A convection microwave has a fan. This fan circulates hot air. It allows you to bake and roast food, not just heat it.
Q: Should I buy a microwave with a lot of preset buttons?
A: If you cook specific foods often, presets can be helpful. If you prefer to set the time yourself, you might not need many.
Q: Where is the best place to buy a microwave?
A: You can buy microwaves online or in appliance stores. Compare prices and read reviews before you decide.
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.