10 Best Countertop Microwave Ovens for Your Kitchen

Countertop microwave ovens have become a staple in modern kitchens, offering convenience and efficiency for busy lifestyles. These versatile appliances go beyond mere reheating, allowing users to cook a variety of meals with ease. However, many people may not be fully aware of the capabilities and best practices for using their countertop microwaves. In this article, we™ll explore the essential tips and tricks to maximize the functionality of your microwave, ensuring you make the most of this handy kitchen gadget. Whether you™re a novice or a seasoned cook, there™s always more to learn about microwave cooking.

10 Best Countertop Microwave Ovens for Every Kitchen

If you’re looking to simplify your cooking routine, investing in a countertop microwave oven is a smart choice. These versatile appliances offer quick meal preparation, defrosting capabilities, and reheating options, making them essential for busy households. With advancements in technology, modern models provide energy efficiency, user-friendly controls, and various cooking settings to suit different culinary needs. From compact designs perfect for small kitchens to powerful units for larger meals, our review of the 10 best countertop microwave ovens will help you choose the ideal match for your kitchen and lifestyle.

Let’s explore these top picks!

1. TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu Ft Microwave

Overview:
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven is a versatile and stylish appliance designed to enhance your kitchen experience. With a generous 1.2 cubic feet capacity and a powerful 1000W output, this microwave is perfect for cooking a variety of foods effortlessly. Featuring a smart humidity sensor and a pre-programmed sensor menu, it ensures optimal heating for popular dishes like pizza, vegetables, and more. The sleek black exterior not only fits well in any kitchen decor but also accommodates large items with a 12.4-inch removable turntable. Additional features like an easy-to-read control panel, a mute function for quiet operation, and ECO mode for energy savings make it both functional and user-friendly. Perfect for busy households, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS combines efficiency with a contemporary design.

Pros:

– Large capacity of 1.2 cu ft allows for cooking various dishes, even fitting a 12-inch pizza comfortably.

– Powerful 1000W ensures quick and efficient heating for a wide range of foods.

– Smart humidity sensor prevents overcooking by adjusting cooking time based on food moisture.

– The convenient mute function allows for a quieter operation, ideal for late-night cooking.

– The easy-clean interior simplifies maintenance, keeping your microwave in top condition with minimal effort.

– Attractive black exterior complements any kitchen style, making it a functional yet stylish addition.

Cons:

– The control panel’s protective film can be easily overlooked, and users should remember to remove it before first use to ensure optimal functionality.

– While the microwave has many pre-programmed options, some users may find that additional custom settings could enhance cooking flexibility.

2. TOSHIBA 0.9 Cu Ft Microwave

Overview:
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen appliance designed to meet various cooking needs in compact living spaces, such as apartments. With a modern black stainless steel finish and a size of just 0.9 cu ft, it fits seamlessly into any kitchen décor. This microwave oven offers 6 convenient auto menus for popular dishes, a two-step child lock for safety, and an easy-to-use mute function that allows you to silence the end-cooking beep. The LED lighting and 10.6-inch removable turntable enhances usability, making it a practical choice for busy households.

Pros:
– Compact size is ideal for apartments and small kitchens
– Offers 6 preset menus for convenient cooking of favorites such as popcorn and pizza
– 900W output power ensures efficient heating and cooking
– Two-step child lock provides added safety for families with children
– Convenient mute function allows quiet operation, perfect for late-night cooking
– 11 unique power levels offer flexibility in cooking and reheating different types of foods
– Easy defrost options make preparing frozen meals quick and straightforward

Cons:
– The 0.9 cu ft capacity might be limiting for larger meal preparations, requiring working in batches
– The external dimensions, while compact, may still take up valuable counter space in very small kitchens

3. BLACK+DECKER 700W Microwave Oven

Overview:
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven combines functionality and safety in a compact design, making it an excellent choice for any kitchen. With a 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and a sleek stainless steel finish, this microwave is not only stylish but also efficient, featuring 700 watts of cooking power and 10 adjustable power settings. It includes pre-programmed buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, and beverages, allowing for convenient one-touch cooking. Its push-button door release and child safety lock ensures easy access while keeping your little ones safe. Additionally, the large LED digital display and easy-to-read control panel enhance usability. This model is UL approved and comes with a one-year limited warranty.

Pros:
– Compact size makes it perfect for smaller kitchens or apartments.
– Pre-programmed cooking features provide convenience and ease of use for everyday meals.
– Child safety lock is a great feature for families with young children.
– The removable glass turntable ensures even cooking and is easy to clean.
– Stylish stainless steel design adds a modern touch to your kitchen.

Cons:
– With 0.7 cu. ft. capacity, it may not be the best fit for larger families or those who frequently cook in big batches.
– The wattage might be lower compared to some larger models, which could result in longer cooking times for specific meals.

4. TOSHIBA 1000W Countertop Microwave

Overview:
The TOSHIBA ML4-EM12PA(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven is a stylish and compact kitchen essential designed to meet the needs of modern cooking. With external dimensions of 20.6 x 16.3 x 11.8 inches, it fits seamlessly into any space, making it ideal for dorm rooms or small apartments. This microwave features 10 unique power levels along with 13 preset auto menus, allowing for versatile cooking options that adapt to your culinary requirements. It operates at a powerful 1000W output, ensuring efficient and effective cooking of various dishes, snacks, and beverages. User-friendly features such as a defrost function, mute mode, and memory function enhance the overall cooking experience. The sleek black stainless steel design not only complements your kitchen decor but also adds a modern touch to your cooking space.

Pros:

– Compact design saves space while offering ample cooking capacity for everyday use.

– Versatile cooking with 10 power levels and 13 auto menus allows for customized meal preparation.

– User-friendly features such as defrost by weight/time and a memory function simplify cooking tasks.

– Sleek black stainless steel finish adds an elegant look that fits with any kitchen style.

– Two-step child lock ensures safety, making it a suitable choice for families with young children.

Cons:

– The compact size may limit the cooking of larger dishes, which requires planning ahead when preparing meals for bigger gatherings.

– Some users may find the preset menu options insufficient for their specific cooking preferences, requiring occasional manual adjustments.

5. Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave

Overview:
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven offers a compact yet powerful cooking solution for your kitchen. With a capacity of 0.7 Cu. Ft. and 700 Watts, this microwave is designed for efficiency and convenience. It features 10 power levels and 6 cooking presets, allowing you to prepare a variety of foods from popcorn to pizza with just a touch of a button. The digital controls make it easy to customize cooking times, while the memory function lets you save frequently used settings for one-touch access. Safety features like a child safety lock and mute option enhance its practicality, making it an excellent choice for families. The modern design and eco-friendly mode add to its appeal, blending seamlessly into any kitchen décor.

Pros:

1. Versatile Cooking Presets: With six convenient presets, users can quickly cook or reheat common meals, making meal preparation a breeze.

2. Customizable Settings: The option to adjust power levels and cooking time provides the flexibility to achieve perfect cooking results every time.

3. Child Safety Features: The built-in child safety lock ensures peace of mind for parents, preventing accidental use.

4. Compact Design: Its sleek black finish and compact dimensions make it a stylish addition to any countertop, even in smaller kitchens.

5. Easy to Clean: The durable exterior and dishwasher-safe glass turntable simplify cleanup after cooking.

Cons:

1. Limited Capacity: While compact, the 0.7 Cu. Ft. size may not accommodate larger dishes, which could be a consideration for those who frequently cook for multiple people.

2. 700 Watts Power Output: Although sufficient for most cooking tasks, some users may find the wattage less ideal for more extensive cooking needs, potentially leading to longer cooking times.

6. Farberware 1000W Microwave Oven

Overview:
The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a powerful and convenient appliance designed for small living spaces like apartments and dorms. With a capacity of 1.1 cu ft and 1000 watts of output power, it allows you to prepare quick and satisfying meals with ease. The microwave features ten power levels and six one-touch settings, making it incredibly versatile for various food types, including popcorn, potatoes, and pizzas. The sleek stainless steel design not only looks great but is also easy to clean. Additionally, it includes helpful features such as a clear LED display, night-friendly interior lighting, and a child safety lock for added peace of mind during use.

Pros:
– High output power of 1000 watts for efficient cooking and reheating.
– Compact size (1.1 cu ft) perfect for kitchens with limited space.
– Versatile with ten power levels and six one-touch cooking modes.
– Easy-to-clean stainless steel exterior and interior.
– Child safety lock ensures extra safety in homes with children.
– LED display and interior lighting provide clear visibility when cooking.

Cons:
– While the compact size is excellent for small spaces, it may be limiting for larger dishes.
– The microwave does not feature a dedicated sensor cooking option, which some users might find useful for certain types of food.

7. Panasonic Inverter Microwave Oven

Overview:
The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S is a versatile and efficient kitchen appliance that combines modern technology with practical design. With a powerful 1200 Watt output and a generous 1.2 cubic foot capacity, this stainless steel countertop or built-in microwave ensures evenly cooked meals with delightful flavors. Its innovative Inverter Technology allows for a smooth distribution of heat, eliminating the risk of overcooking. The Genius Sensor automatically adjusts cooking power and time based on the food being prepared, making meal preparation effortless. With additional features such as Turbo Defrost, a Keep Warm option, and child safety lock, this microwave is ideal for any household.

Pros:

– Inverter Technology allows for precise cooking without overcooking, enhancing the quality of your meals.

– Genius Sensor ensures automatic adjustments, making it user-friendly and convenient for all cooking levels.

– Compact design saves valuable counter space while still providing plenty of internal capacity for larger dishes.

– The Keep Warm feature is perfect for maintaining the temperature of soups and desserts until meal time.

– Comes with multiple preset menu items and power levels, offering excellent versatility for various cooking needs.

Cons:

– Although the compact design is beneficial for space-saving, some users might find the internal dimensions slightly limiting for larger cookware.

– The membrane keypad, while straightforward, may take some time for users accustomed to traditional buttons to get used to.

8. Comfee 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave

Overview:
The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a versatile and efficient appliance designed to meet your cooking needs. With a compact capacity of 0.7 Cu Ft, this sleek black microwave is perfect for small kitchens, dorms, or offices. It features an array of user-friendly functions, including a sound on/off feature for quiet operation, energy-saving ECO mode, and easy one-touch buttons for quick access to popular settings like popcorn, pizza, and beverages. Additional features such as a child safety lock and multiple defrost settings ensure convenience and safety, making this microwave a great addition to any household.

Pros:

– Mute function allows for silent operation, perfect for late-night snacks without disturbing others.

– ECO mode significantly reduces standby power consumption, making it an energy-efficient choice.

– One-touch cooking options for popular foods simplify meal preparation.

– The compact design fits well in small spaces while still offering a reasonable interior capacity.

– Child safety lock adds extra security for homes with young children.

– Bright digital display and easy-to-read control panel enhance usability.

Cons:

– The 0.7 Cu Ft capacity may not be suitable for larger family meals or oversized dishes, requiring careful planning when using.

– Limited color options available, which may not match all kitchen decors.

9. Sharp Stainless Steel Microwave

Overview:
The SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven is a stylish and efficient kitchen appliance, featuring a full-sized capacity of 0.9 cubic feet and a powerful 900 watts. Its sleek stainless steel design, paired with a gray interior and white LED display, enhances any kitchen décor. The microwave includes a 10.6-inch Carousel turntable that ensures even cooking, while its 10 power levels and 2-stage cooking function provide versatility for all your cooking needs. Additional features such as the “+30 seconds” instant start key, Auto Cook settings for popular menu items, and Weight and Time Defrost make meal preparation a breeze.

Pros:
– Attractive stainless steel design that complements modern kitchens.
– Efficient 10.6-inch Carousel turntable ensures even cooking results.
– 900 watts of power and 10 cooking levels offer flexibility in cooking and reheating food.
– Convenient “+30 seconds” key allows for quick cooking adjustments.
– Auto Cook feature simplifies meal prep by providing preset cooking options.
– Compact size fits well on countertops without taking up too much space.

Cons:
– The 0.9 cubic feet capacity may be limiting for larger dishes or families with bigger cooking needs.
– Some users may find the lack of a grilling or convection feature reduces versatility for certain recipes.

10. Farberware Compact Microwave Oven

Overview:
The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a compact yet powerful kitchen appliance designed for those who need efficiency without sacrificing quality. With 700 watts of output power and a 0.7 cu. ft. capacity, this microwave is perfectly suited for small spaces such as apartments and dorms. It features a range of settings, including ten power levels and six one-touch cooking options, making it simple to prepare everything from popcorn to pizza. The microwave also includes a clear LED display, kitchen timer, interior lighting, and an intuitive child lock, ensuring that it meets the needs of busy families and individuals alike. The easy-to-clean stainless steel design adds to its appeal, offering both durability and style.

Pros:

– Compact size makes it ideal for small living spaces such as apartments and dorms.

– Powerful 700 watts provide quick cooking and reheating capabilities.

– Ten power levels and six one-touch settings allow for versatile cooking options.

– User-friendly features like LED display, kitchen timer, and easy-view interior lighting enhance convenience.

– Child safety lock adds peace of mind for families with little ones.

– Easy-to-clean stainless steel exterior simplifies maintenance.

Cons:

– The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity may be limiting for larger families or those who frequently cook bigger meals.

– Some users may find the limited number of one-touch settings to be a drawback for diverse cooking needs.

Additional Guide

Introduction to Countertop Microwave Ovens

Countertop microwave ovens are compact, freestanding kitchen appliances designed for quick heating, defrosting, and cooking food. Unlike built-in microwaves, these models sit on countertops, making them ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, offices, or anyone who needs a convenient cooking solution without installation hassles. They’re perfect for busy individuals, students, or families looking for an easy-to-use appliance that saves time and space.

Key Features and Benefits

Countertop microwaves come packed with features that enhance convenience and efficiency:

• Compact Size: Fits easily on countertops without requiring permanent installation.
• Multiple Power Levels: Adjustable settings for precise cooking, defrosting, or reheating.
• Quick Cooking: Heats food in seconds, making meal prep faster than conventional ovens.
• Easy to Clean: Smooth interiors and removable turntables simplify maintenance.
• Affordability: Typically more budget-friendly than built-in or over-the-range models.
• Smart Features (in some models): Sensor cooking, preset menus, and voice control compatibility.

Comparison with Similar Products

Countertop microwaves differ from other microwave types in several ways:

• Built-In Microwaves: Require cabinet installation and are more expensive but offer a seamless look.
• Over-the-Range Microwaves: Double as ventilation hoods but need professional installation and take up more space.
• Convection Microwaves: Combine microwave speed with oven-like baking but are pricier and bulkier.

Countertop models win for portability, ease of setup, and affordability.

Use Cases and How to Use It

Countertop microwaves are versatile for everyday tasks:

• Reheating Leftovers: Place food in a microwave-safe container, cover, and heat for 1-3 minutes.
• Defrosting: Use the defrost setting or low power to thaw frozen foods evenly.
• Cooking Ready-Meals: Follow package instructions for microwave-safe frozen or packaged meals.
• Beverages: Warm coffee, tea, or milk in short bursts to avoid overheating.

For best results, stir food midway and let it stand for even heat distribution.

Pros and Cons

Here™s a quick breakdown of the advantages and limitations:

• Pros:

  • No installation required”plug and play.
  • Space-saving and portable.
  • Affordable and widely available.
  • Fast and energy-efficient cooking.

• Cons:

  • Takes up counter space.
  • Limited capacity compared to larger models.
  • May lack advanced features like convection cooking.

Final Thoughts

Countertop microwave ovens are a practical choice for anyone needing quick, hassle-free cooking without sacrificing counter space or budget. While they may not replace a full-sized oven for elaborate meals, their speed, convenience, and affordability make them a kitchen essential. If you prioritize ease of use and flexibility, a countertop microwave is a smart investment.

FAQs: countertop microwave ovens

What features should I look for when choosing a countertop microwave oven?

Look for features such as wattage (higher wattage typically means faster cooking), size and capacity, preset cooking functions, sensor cooking, ease of use (intuitive controls), and safety features like child locks.

How much power do countertop microwave ovens usually use?

Countertop microwave ovens typically range from 600 to 1200 watts. Higher wattage microwaves cook food more quickly and evenly, making them more efficient for everyday use.

Are there any specific brands known for high-quality countertop microwave ovens?

Yes, reputable brands like Panasonic, Breville, Sharp, and Toshiba are often recognized for producing high-quality countertop microwave ovens known for their performance and durability.

What is the average lifespan of a countertop microwave oven?

The average lifespan of a countertop microwave is about 5 to 10 years, depending on usage, brand quality, and maintenance. Regular cleaning and avoiding overloading can help extend its lifespan.

Can I use metal containers in my countertop microwave?

No, metal containers should not be used in countertop microwaves as they can cause sparks and fire hazards. Instead, use microwave-safe glass, ceramic, or plastic containers.