Comparison: Countertop Best Microwave (Updated | Dec 8th)

Higher wattage microwaves (1200‑1250 W) heat food faster and are better for defrosting and cooking larger meals, while 900‑1000 W models are sufficient for reheating and small dishes. Consider the typical portion sizes you prepare; a 1.2‑1.6 cu ft capacity with 1200 W is ideal for families, whereas a 0.7‑0.9 cu ft, 700‑900 W unit works well in dorms or offices. Also check if the model offers multiple power levels, which give you more control over delicate tasks like melting butter.

Sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power based on the food’s humidity, reducing the risk of over‑cooking or under‑cooking. Models like the Toshiba EM131A5C and GE Countertop Microwave include smart sensor menus for popular items such as pizza and vegetables. If you prefer hands‑off cooking, sensor technology adds convenience and more consistent results.

Inverter technology provides continuous, variable power, which results in more even heating and faster defrosting compared to traditional on‑off cycling. The Toshiba ML‑EM45PIT and ML‑EM45P models use this technology, offering smoother texture for foods like potatoes and fish. If you often cook delicate dishes or need precise temperature control, the inverter feature can be a valuable upgrade.

Two‑step child locks are the most robust safety option, requiring a specific sequence to unlock the door. Toshiba’s ML‑EM45PIT, ML‑EM09PA, and GE Countertop Microwave all include this feature, as does the Chefman model with a lock mode on the control panel. Look for models that also allow you to mute the buzzer, reducing accidental activation by children.

A larger turntable (13.6 inches) accommodates bigger dishes like a 13‑inch pizza and promotes even cooking, which is useful for family‑size meals. Smaller turntables (10.6‑12.4 inches) are adequate for single‑serve plates and fit tighter countertop spaces. Match the turntable diameter to the typical dish size you use most often.

Interior capacity (cu ft) determines how much food you can cook at once, while external dimensions affect countertop space usage. For example, the Toshiba ML‑EM45P offers 1.6 cu ft inside a 21.8 × 19.2 × 12.9 in chassis, suitable for larger families, whereas the Chefman’s 0.9 cu ft unit fits comfortably on smaller counters at 18.7 × 14.7 × 10.7 in. Balance the need for cooking volume with the space you have available.

Preset menus simplify cooking by providing one‑touch settings for common foods like popcorn, pizza, and vegetables, reducing guesswork for inexperienced users. Models such as the Toshiba EM131A5C, ML‑EM09PA, and Sharp microwave include six to eight smart sensor presets that adjust power automatically. If you frequently prepare the same dishes, these presets can save time and improve consistency.

Higher‑priced models typically combine multiple premium features—such as inverter technology, larger capacity, and advanced sensor menus—offering greater versatility and faster cooking. Budget‑friendly options like the Farberware 0.7 cu ft or Black+Decker EM031MB11 still provide essential functions (10 power levels, child lock) but lack inverter or extensive preset menus. Evaluate which features you’ll actually use to determine if the added cost translates into real value for your kitchen.