Remember those late nights when you just wanted a quick snack or to reheat leftovers without a fuss? For many of us, the trusty countertop microwave has been a kitchen hero. But stepping into the world of buying a new one can feel like navigating a maze of sizes, power levels, and fancy features. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you just want a reliable appliance that fits your space and your needs.
Choosing the right countertop microwave is more than just picking the cheapest option. It’s about finding a workhorse that can handle your daily tasks efficiently, without taking up too much precious counter space or costing a fortune. We all have different kitchens and different cooking habits, which makes finding that perfect fit a real challenge. What if you could easily figure out which microwave is best for your family and your budget?
In this guide, we’ll break down what really matters when you’re shopping for a countertop microwave. We’ll help you understand the different features, figure out the best size for your kitchen, and even give you tips on finding great deals. By the end, you’ll feel confident in choosing a microwave that makes your life a little bit easier, one reheat at a time.
Our Top 5 On The Counter Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 On The Counter Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4″ Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor
Rating: 9.3/10
Meet the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS, a 1.2 cubic foot countertop microwave that makes cooking a breeze. Its sleek silver design fits right into any kitchen. This microwave boasts 1000 watts of cooking power, perfect for reheating leftovers or cooking quick meals. It also features a large 12.4-inch turntable, giving you plenty of space for bigger dishes.
What We Like:
- Smart Sensor Technology takes the guesswork out of cooking. It automatically adjusts time and power based on how much steam your food gives off, so no more burnt popcorn or undercooked chicken.
- It comes with 6 helpful preset menus for popular foods like pizza and vegetables, plus a sensor reheat option.
- You have 10 different power levels to choose from, giving you lots of control for different cooking tasks.
- The easy defrost feature lets you thaw food by weight or time.
- One-touch start buttons let you quickly cook for 1 to 6 minutes at full power.
- The Mute Function lets you turn off the annoying beeping sounds.
- ECO Mode helps save energy when the microwave isn’t in use.
- The interior is designed for easy cleaning.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has 6 preset menus, the product title mentions “12 Auto Menus.” This could be confusing for some buyers.
- The input power is 1600 watts, which is higher than many microwaves and might be something to consider for your electrical setup.
This Toshiba microwave is a smart choice for anyone looking for convenience and consistent cooking results. Its user-friendly features and modern design make it a great addition to any kitchen.
2. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
Rating: 9.0/10
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave is a smart and powerful kitchen helper. It offers 1000 watts of cooking power to heat your food quickly. This microwave has a large 1.2 cubic foot capacity, fitting a 12.4-inch turntable. Its smart humidity sensor helps cook your food perfectly. You can choose from 12 auto menus for easy cooking. Plus, it has a mute function and an ECO mode for energy saving. The black color looks sleek in any kitchen.
What We Like:
- The Smart Humidity Sensor cooks food just right, avoiding overcooking or undercooking.
- It offers 10 different power levels for flexible cooking.
- Defrosting is easy, whether you choose by weight or time.
- The One-Touch Start feature lets you quickly cook for 1-6 minutes at full power.
- You can mute the annoying buzzer by pressing the “8” button for 3-5 seconds.
- The ECO Mode helps save energy when the microwave is not in use.
- The interior is easy to clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has 12 auto menus, only 6 preset menus are specifically mentioned for popular foods.
- The external dimensions are a bit large, so make sure you have enough counter space.
This TOSHIBA microwave is a great addition to any kitchen. Its smart features and easy-to-use controls make meal preparation a breeze.
3. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 9.1/10
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) is a compact and stylish stainless steel microwave, perfect for small kitchens, apartments, or dorm rooms. It offers 900 watts of power to heat your food quickly and efficiently. With its user-friendly design and helpful features, this microwave makes cooking and reheating a breeze.
What We Like:
- Powerful 900-watt cooking for fast results.
- Six handy preset menus for popular foods like popcorn and potatoes.
- Eleven different power levels give you lots of cooking control.
- A smart mute function lets you silence the beeping sounds.
- The two-step child lock feature keeps little hands safe.
- Easy defrost by weight or time is a useful option.
- The LED lighting inside makes it easy to see your food.
- A large 10.6-inch removable turntable fits bigger plates.
What Could Be Improved:
- The external dimensions might be a bit wide for some very tight spaces.
- Operating the child lock requires following specific steps.
This TOSHIBA microwave is a fantastic option for anyone needing a reliable and feature-rich appliance in a small package. It’s a great addition to any compact living space.
4. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 8.5/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact powerhouse designed for your busy kitchen. This 0.7 cu. ft. microwave packs 700 watts of power, making quick meals and reheating a breeze. Its sleek black design fits seamlessly with any kitchen decor. You’ll love the user-friendly digital controls and helpful features like the mute button and child safety lock.
What We Like:
- It cooks food extra-quick with six handy presets for popcorn, pizza, veggies, and more.
- You can choose from 10 different power levels for just the right cooking intensity.
- Digital controls make it easy to set time and power.
- The +30 seconds button is great for adding a little extra cook time.
- You can program your favorite cooking settings with the memory function.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands out.
- The mute option lets you turn off annoying beeps.
- Eco Mode helps save energy by disabling the display.
- Cleaning is simple, with a damp towel for the exterior and a dishwasher-safe turntable.
- It’s cETL approved and comes with a 1-year warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be a bit small for larger dishes or family-sized meals.
- While powerful for its size, it may not cook as fast as larger, higher-wattage microwaves.
This Chefman microwave is a fantastic option for small spaces or anyone needing a reliable, easy-to-use appliance for everyday cooking tasks. It delivers convenience and modern features in a budget-friendly package.
5. TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology
Rating: 8.7/10
Introducing the TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven, a sleek and powerful addition to any kitchen. This Black Stainless Steel microwave boasts a spacious 1.6 cu.ft. capacity and a robust 1250W of cooking power, making it ideal for everything from reheating leftovers to preparing full meals. Its Inverter Technology ensures even heating and defrosting, leading to faster cooking times and perfectly cooked food. The smart sensor menus take the guesswork out of cooking, automatically adjusting settings for popular items like pizza and vegetables, while preserving their delicious texture. Plus, the large 13.6-inch removable turntable easily fits larger dishes.
What We Like:
- The Inverter Technology provides consistent and even heating, making food taste better.
- Smart Sensor Auto Menus simplify cooking for common foods, taking the stress out of meal prep.
- The powerful 1250W output cooks food quickly and efficiently.
- The Sound On/Off function is a thoughtful feature for quiet kitchens.
- The Two-Step Child Lock is a great safety feature for families with young children.
- The Quick Start button offers convenient one-touch cooking for up to 3 minutes.
- The large 1.6 cu.ft. capacity and 13.6-inch turntable can handle big meals and dishes.
What Could Be Improved:
- The external dimensions are quite large (21.8x 19.2x 12.9 inches), so check your counter space.
- The protective film on the keypad needs to be removed before first use, which is a minor extra step.
This Toshiba microwave offers a blend of advanced technology and user-friendly features, making it a solid choice for busy households. Its powerful performance and smart cooking options will make your time in the kitchen more enjoyable.
Your Guide to Finding the Best On-the-Counter Microwave
Why an On-the-Counter Microwave?
An on-the-counter microwave is a kitchen staple. It heats up your food quickly. It’s perfect for busy people. You can find many different kinds. This guide helps you choose the right one.
Key Features to Look For
Size Matters
Microwaves come in different sizes. Measure the space on your counter. You don’t want a microwave that’s too big or too small. Small microwaves are good for apartments. Larger ones are better for families.
Wattage: The Powerhouse
Wattage tells you how powerful your microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most microwaves are between 700 and 1200 watts. For everyday use, 900-1000 watts is usually enough.
Cooking Presets: Easy Buttons
Many microwaves have special buttons. These buttons are for specific foods. You can press a button for popcorn or pizza. This makes cooking simple. It takes the guesswork out of it.
Turntable: Even Heating
A turntable spins your food. This helps it cook evenly. Most microwaves have one. Some larger ones might not. Make sure your food gets heated all the way around.
Smart Features: High-Tech Helpers
Some microwaves have smart features. You can control them with your phone. They might have voice commands. These are cool but not always necessary.
Important Materials
Most microwaves have an outer casing made of metal. This is usually stainless steel or painted metal. Stainless steel looks nice and is easy to clean. The inside is often made of enamel or a special coating. These materials are easy to wipe down. They resist stains and odors.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Build Quality
A well-built microwave lasts longer. Check for sturdy doors and smooth buttons. A heavy microwave is often a sign of good quality. It means it has strong parts inside.
Ease of Cleaning
You’ll need to clean your microwave often. Look for smooth surfaces inside and out. Non-stick coatings help a lot. A removable turntable makes cleaning easier too.
Noise Level
Some microwaves are loud. Listen to the sound when you can. A quieter microwave is better, especially if you have an open kitchen.
Brand Reputation
Some brands are known for making good appliances. Research brands you trust. Read reviews from other buyers.
User Experience and Use Cases
Simple Heating
The most common use is reheating leftovers. You can heat soup, pasta, or anything else. It’s much faster than using the oven.
Cooking Quick Meals
Microwaves are great for quick meals. You can cook frozen dinners. You can also make popcorn for a snack. Some recipes are made just for microwaves.
Defrosting Food
Need to thaw frozen meat or vegetables? A microwave can do it fast. Many have special defrost settings.
Convenience is Key
The biggest benefit is convenience. You save time and effort. It’s a tool that makes your life easier.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important feature to look for in an on-the-counter microwave?
A: The most important feature is the size. You need to make sure it fits your counter space.
Q: How much wattage do I need for a microwave?
A: For everyday use, 900-1000 watts is usually good. Higher wattage means faster cooking.
Q: Do I need a turntable in my microwave?
A: Yes, a turntable helps your food cook evenly. It spins your food as it heats.
Q: Are smart features worth the extra cost?
A: Smart features are nice if you like technology. They are not essential for basic microwave use.
Q: What materials are best for the inside of a microwave?
A: Look for enamel or special non-stick coatings. They are easy to clean and resist stains.
Q: How do I know if a microwave is good quality?
A: A well-built microwave feels sturdy. The doors close smoothly and the buttons work well.
Q: Is it important to consider the noise level of a microwave?
A: Yes, a quieter microwave is more pleasant to use, especially in open living spaces.
Q: What are the main uses for an on-the-counter microwave?
A: The main uses are reheating food, cooking quick meals, and defrosting frozen items.
Q: How often should I clean my microwave?
A: It’s best to clean your microwave regularly, after each use if possible, to prevent stains and odors.
Q: Where is the best place to buy an on-the-counter microwave?
A: You can buy them at electronics stores, department stores, and online retailers.
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.