Comparison: What Is The Best Microwave To Buy (Updated | Dec 8th)
Looking for the best microwave to buy but overwhelmed by all the options? You’re not alone. We’ve tested, heated, and reheated dozens to bring you honest, real-world insights. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or a cooking enthusiast, we’ll help you find the perfect microwave that fits your life—and your kitchen—without breaking the bank.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for smart wifi cooking: GE GCST09U1WSS Smart Countertop Microwave Oven
- Best for retro power style: Nostalgia NRMO11AQ6A 1000 Watt Power Retro Countertop Microwave Oven Easy to Clean with Removable Glass Turntable-Child Safety Lock-12 Programs-Digital Clock
- Best for compact pro power: COMMERCIAL CHEF 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave with 10 Power Levels
- Best for versatile airtight set: 12 Pack Glass Food Storage Containers with Airtight Lids for Meal Prep
- Best for snack size airtight: GULFLIN 12 Pack Small Glass Food Storage Containers with Lids Airtight
- Best for splatter guard mats: To encounter Silicone Microwave Mat – Round 12″ x 12″ – Set of 2 Heat Resistant Multifunctional Mat
- Best for extended splatter guard: To encounter Silicone Microwave Mat – Round 12″ x 12″ – Set of 4 Heat Resistant Multifunctional Mat
- Best for dad love mug: Jmugmt Dads Are Hard To Buy Gifts For Mug
- Best for compact leak proof: 6 Pack Glass Food Storage Containers
- Best for premium dad mug: Jmugmt Dads Are Hard To Buy Gifts For Mug
Product Comparison: What Is The Best Microwave To Buy
Smart WiFi Cooking
GE GCST09U1WSS Smart Countertop Microwave Oven, Scan-to-Cook Technology and WiFi-Connectivity, 900 Watts Child-Lock Home & Kitchen Essentials, 0.9 Cu. Ft, Stainless Steel
GE
- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This mandatory feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, with the option to deactivate it if not needed.
- COOKING MADE SMARTER WITH WIFI POWERED BY SMART HQ: Voice-enabled cooking allows you to turn microwave on and off, add time or change power level via Alexa or Google Assistant; Scan-To-Cook Technology saves time and optimizes frozen food preparation
- SPACE-SAVING EXTERIOR, SPACIOUS INTERIOR: 900 watts of power and 0.9 cu. ft. inside allow for effective, efficient cooking while not taking up valuable kitchen space; glass turntable rotates for optimum cooking
- EASY SET UP: Freestanding microwave fits easily on countertop or open shelf, with 39 inch power cord
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: Simple, one-touch operation with convenience cooking controls; kitchen timer, child lock controls and cooking complete alarms add convenience
- EASY AUTO OR MANUAL DEFROST: Defrosting times and power levels can be programmed or set manually for optimal results
- GLASS TURNTABLE: Rotates food throughout the cycle for even through cooking of food
Retro Power Style
Nostalgia NRMO11AQ6A 1000 Watt Power Retro Countertop Microwave Oven Easy to Clean with Removable Glass Turntable-Child Safety Lock-12 Programs-Digital Clock, 1.1 Cu Ft, Aqua
Nostalgia
- 1.1 CUBIC FEET CAPACITY: This spacious microwave bolsters 1.1 cubic feet of space in its interior, allowing you to fit and heat meals of many shapes and sizes.
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: Includes 12 pre-programmed cooking settings, a delay timer, and express cooking provide options cooking dishes like popcorn, pizza, potatoes, veggies, and more.
- EASY TO READ CLOCK: A bright LED display makes the digital clock and cooking settings easy to see and adjust.
- VINTAGE ACCENTS: Add retro and classic charm to your kitchen with this microwave’s sleek chrome door handle, control panel, and accents.
- CHILD SAFETY LOCK: A 2-action child lock feature ensures maximum safety by preventing accidental opening. This feature can be activated or deactivated as needed.
Compact Pro Power
COMMERCIAL CHEF 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave with 10 Power Levels, Small Microwave with Pull Handle, 700W Countertop Microwave up to 99 Minute Timer and Digital Display, Black
Commercial CHEF
- Powerful: When it comes to microwave ovens, our COMMERCIAL CHEF 700 watt microwave (23.1 lbs.) is your solution to fast & delicious food. Microwave bacon, microwave pasta, & other delicious favorites!
- 10 Power Levels: Our compact microwave (17.56″ x 12.69″ x 9.56″) has 10 outstanding power levels, with one touch Quick Cook Settings for pizza, popcorn, frozen dinners, potatoes, and more.
- Digital Controls: Heat up food from 99 seconds to 99 minutes with an easy-to-operate digital display with led lighting. This countertop microwave includes an accurate timer signal when complete.
- Impressive Features: When it comes to countertop microwave ovens, our black microwave is superior with 700 watts of power, a child safety and door lock, turntable, and 0.7 cu. ft. capacity.
- Grab & Go: This small microwave for your kitchen counter helps to heat meals, snacks, & drinks quickly to accommodate your busy life. Our microwave oven lets you enjoy delicious food on the go.
Versatile Airtight Set
12 Pack Glass Food Storage Containers with Airtight Lids for Meal Prep, Leftover, BPA-Free, Leak-Proof, Freezer to Microwave Safe (12 Lids & 12 Containers)
GULFLIN
- 【24-piece set includes 12 containers and 12 lids】Set includes (3) 4.5-Cup, (3) 1.5-Cup Rectangular containers and (3) 2.75-Cup, (3) 0.9-Cup Round containers.
- 【Everyday Use】Large and small containers are versatile for different use: meal prep food, leftover, sauce, lunch to go, picnic, camping.
- 【Stackable Storage to Save Space】The durable food storage containers stack into each other for easier storing when you don’t use them, which fit neatly in kitchen cabinets.
- 【Oven/ Microwave/ Freezer/ Dishwasher】 the glass containers are made of high-quality borosilicate glassis able to withstand -4℉ to 752℉ (-20℃ – 400℃), hold up very well from refrigerator direct to microwave.
- 【100% Leak Proof Airtight Lid】Glass food containers is designed with removable silicone seals and 4-hinge snap locks to ensure zero leaking or spilling, which also prevent smell go out and keep food fresh.
- 【BPA Free and Food Grade Material】The glass food containers is 100% BPA Free, crystal-clear glass making it easy to see what’s inside. Stains-resistant material for easy cleaning and keep glass containers looks like new.
- [Customer Service] We are committed to providing each customer with the highest standard of customer service. If you have any problem, please feel free to contact our customer service, we’re always here for you.
Snack Size Airtight
GULFLIN 12 Pack Small Glass Food Storage Containers with Lids Airtight, 13oz Leak-Proof Meal Prep Containers Set, Freezer to Microwave Safe, Dishwasher Safe
GULFLIN
- 24-PIECE SET: Includes 12 round glass containers(1.6cup/13oz) with 12 Locking Lids, for a total of 24 pieces. Lids are interchangeable between the same size glass containers.
- [Oven, Microwave, Freezer Safe] Durable borosilicate glass containers designed to go from freezer to oven, containers are great for meal prep, leftovers, cabinet storage, and more, make meal prep simple and easy.
- [Airtight Lids, Easy to Store] Four locking tabs creates an airtight seal for food freshness, enables the lid to flip open and shut quickly, These lids will not break or slowly stop working. Containers and lids are stackable, and your cabinets stay organized.
- [Leak-proof, Multipurpose Containers]100% leak-proof and airtight seal, making these containers perfect for taking meals on the go; great for taking lunch to work and ideal for meal prep at home and perfect for the gym, pool, or work.
- [Dishwasher Safe, Easy to Clean] Glass containers won’t absorb stains or smells, Containers and Removable silicone seals are dishwasher safe, making cleaning them a breeze. (please note Plastic lids are Top-Rack Dishwasher Safe.)
- [Customer Service] We are committed to providing each customer with the highest standard of customer service. If you have any problem, please feel free to contact our customer service, we’re always here for you.
Splatter Guard Mats
To encounter Silicone Microwave Mat – Round 12″ x 12″ – Set of 2 Heat Resistant Multifunctional Mat, Splatter Guard, Trivet, Hot Pad, Pot Holder
To encounter
- For Microwave Use, this round baking mat is great for use as a food cover to eliminate splatter, or as a non-stick base. 12″ Diameter, fits standard glass turntables.
- Heat Resistant, made from food grade silicone, heat-resistant is safe up to 446F. Non-slip and naturally non-stick. Dishwasher safe for convenient, easy cleaning.
- Multi-Functional Mat, can be applied to microwave heating, oven baked. It can also be used as a drying mat, jar opener, trivet, utensil rest, place mat and more. Covers most dishes for reheating.
- Stylish Design, raised grooves and edges for easy grabbing and even heat distribution. They are designed to contain spills, drips and splatters, protecting your glass microwave turntable.
- Warm Reminder, if you want better heat protection effect, please overlap the two pieces together. Do not allow to place mat come into direct contact with an open flame.
Extended Splatter Guard
To encounter Silicone Microwave Mat – Round 12″ x 12″ – Set of 4 Heat Resistant Multifunctional Mat, Splatter Guard, Trivet, Hot Pad, Pot Holder
To encounter
- For Microwave Use, this round baking mat is great for use as a food cover to eliminate splatter, or as a non-stick base. 12″ Diameter, fits standard glass turntables.
- Heat Resistant, made from food grade silicone, BPA free, heat-resistant is safe up to 446F. Non-slip and naturally non-stick. Dishwasher safe for convenient, easy cleaning.
- Multi-Functional Mat, can be applied to microwave heating, oven baked. It can also be used as a drying mat, jar opener, trivet, utensil rest, place mat and more. Covers most dishes for reheating.
- Stylish Design, raised grooves and edges for easy grabbing and even heat distribution. They are designed to contain spills, drips and splatters, protecting your glass microwave turntable.
- Warm Reminder, if you want better heat protection effect, please overlap the two pieces together. Do not allow to place mat come into direct contact with an open flame.
Dad Love Mug
Jmugmt Dads Are Hard To Buy Gifts For Mug, Birthday Christmas Gifts for Dad from Daughter Son, 11OZ Black
Jmugmt
- BEST GIFTS FOR DAD: Our Dads Are Hard To Buy Gifts For mug is a perfect gift for Dad, applicable to various scenarios, it’s ideal for a present or a treat for yourself.
- PREMIUM GIFT BOX PACKAGING: Amazing gift ready packaging perfect for every occasion, our gift box is more fashionable than traditional gift box, you don’t need to buy any gift packaging, when you give it to your Dad on birthday day, it’s sure to catch everyone’s attention and be cherished as a beautiful souvenir gift.
- SUITABLE FOR ANY OCCASION: Our Initial Dads Are Hard To Buy Gifts For mug suitable for any occasion, Whether you give it to Dad as a birthday gift, as a souvenir, or for daily use, when they see this gift of love, they will be moved and remember this special day!
- DURABLE AND EASY TO CLEAN: Our Dads Are Hard To Buy Gifts For mug use high-quality food-grade ceramic materials, easy to clean and won’t leave scratches, dishwasher and microwave safe, more convenient for daily use, 11 ounces large capacity and large handle design, more convenient to use.
- AS ADVERTISED: What you see in our pictures is exactly what you get! Each mug pattern is hand-crafted by highly skilled artisans using high-quality ceramic inks, the pattern never falls off, it’s our greatest hope that this comprehensive Dads Are Hard To Buy Gifts For mug gift set will enhance your life and help you create memories that matter.
Compact Leak Proof
6 Pack Glass Food Storage Containers, BPA Free Meal Prep Containers with Leak Proof Lids, Freezer to Microwave Safe
GULFLIN
- 【6 Pack Glass Storage Containers】Set includes (3) 2.75-Cup Round containers and (3) 4.25-Cup Rectangular containers, plus lids, for a total of 12 pieces
- 【Everyday Use】Large(34oz) and Small(22oz) containers are versatile for different use: meal prep food, leftover, sauce, lunch to go, picnic, camping.
- 【Stackable Storage to Save Space】The durable food storage containers stack into each other for easier storing when you don’t use them, which fit neatly in kitchen cabinets.
- 【Oven/ Microwave/ Freezer/ Dishwasher】 the glass containers are made of high-quality borosilicate glassis able to withstand -4℉ to 752℉ (-20℃ – 400℃), hold up very well from refrigerator direct to microwave.
- 【100% Leak Proof Airtight Lid】Glass food containers is designed with removable silicone seals and 4-hinge snap locks to ensure zero leaking or spilling, which also prevent smell go out and keep food fresh.
- 【BPA Free and Food Grade Material】The glass food containers is 100% BPA Free, crystal-clear glass making it easy to see what’s inside. Stains-resistant material for easy cleaning and keep glass containers looks like new.
- 【Customer Service】We are committed to providing each customer with the highest standard of customer service. If you have any problem, please feel free to contact our customer service, we’re always here for you.
Premium Dad Mug
Jmugmt Dads Are Hard To Buy Gifts For Mug, Birthday Christmas Gifts for Dad from Daughter Son, 11OZ Black Handle
Jmugmt
- BEST GIFTS FOR DAD: Our Dads Are Hard To Buy Gifts For mug is a perfect gift for Dad, applicable to various scenarios, it’s ideal for a present or a treat for yourself.
- PREMIUM GIFT BOX PACKAGING: Amazing gift ready packaging perfect for every occasion, our gift box is more fashionable than traditional gift box, you don’t need to buy any gift packaging, when you give it to your Dad on birthday day, it’s sure to catch everyone’s attention and be cherished as a beautiful souvenir gift.
- SUITABLE FOR ANY OCCASION: Our Initial Dads Are Hard To Buy Gifts For mug suitable for any occasion, Whether you give it to Dad as a birthday gift, as a souvenir, or for daily use, when they see this gift of love, they will be moved and remember this special day!
- DURABLE AND EASY TO CLEAN: Our Dads Are Hard To Buy Gifts For mug use high-quality food-grade ceramic materials, easy to clean and won’t leave scratches, dishwasher and microwave safe, more convenient for daily use, 11 ounces large capacity and large handle design, more convenient to use.
- AS ADVERTISED: What you see in our pictures is exactly what you get! Each mug pattern is hand-crafted by highly skilled artisans using high-quality ceramic inks, the pattern never falls off, it’s our greatest hope that this comprehensive Dads Are Hard To Buy Gifts For mug gift set will enhance your life and help you create memories that matter.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What key specs should I compare when choosing a countertop microwave?
Focus on wattage, interior capacity, and available cooking modes. Higher wattage (e.g., 1000 W) cooks food faster, while a larger cubic‑foot rating lets you fit bigger dishes. Also check for smart features like Wi‑Fi or preset programs that match your cooking habits.
How does the GE GCST09U1WSS Smart Microwave differ from the Nostalgia NRMO11AQ6A?
The GE model offers 900 W power, 0.9 cu ft capacity, and Wi‑Fi connectivity for voice‑controlled cooking, whereas the Nostalgia unit provides 1000 W and a slightly larger 1.1 cu ft interior but lacks smart features. GE also includes a two‑step child lock and Scan‑to‑Cook technology, while Nostalgia focuses on retro styling and 12 preset programs.
Is a higher wattage always better for everyday use?
Higher wattage generally means quicker heating, which is useful for frozen meals and large portions. However, it can also consume more electricity and may overcook delicate foods if not monitored. For most households, a 700‑900 W range balances speed, energy use, and versatility.
What should I consider about interior space and turntable size?
Measure the largest dish you typically reheat and compare it to the microwave’s interior dimensions and turntable diameter. A 0.9 cu ft unit like the GE fits most plates but may be tight for big casserole dishes, while the 1.1 cu ft Nostalgia offers more room. Ensure the turntable rotates smoothly to promote even cooking.
How valuable are child‑lock and safety features?
Child‑lock mechanisms prevent accidental activation, which is crucial for families with young kids. Both the GE and Nostalgia models include two‑step or dual‑action locks, adding peace of mind. Look for additional safety cues such as door‑lock indicators and audible end‑of‑cycle alerts.
Which microwave gives the best overall value for its price?
If you prioritize smart connectivity and compact design, the GE GCST09U1WSS offers a solid mix of features at a moderate price point. For pure cooking power and a larger cavity without extra tech, the Nostalgia NRMO11AQ6A provides higher wattage and more interior space at a comparable cost. Assess which features matter most to you to determine the best value.