Comparison: Best Quality Microwave Brand (Updated | Dec 8th)
When it comes to zapping leftovers or whipping up a quick meal, not all microwaves are created equal. We’ve all been there—standing in front of a flickering display, wondering if our lunch will ever heat evenly. That’s why we dove deep into the world of microwave brands to find the ones that truly deliver on performance, durability, and value. From sleek designs to smart features, we’ve tested, compared, and ranked the top contenders so you don’t have to guess. Let’s find your perfect kitchen match.
- Best for sensor-optimized cooking: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
- Best for large family capacity: Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor
- Best for inverter even heating: TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology
- Best for stainless sensor cook: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4″ Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor
- Best for compact stainless style: TOSHIBA ML4-EM12PA(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Stylish Design As Kitchen Essentials
- Best for smart sensor value: Farberware 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1100 Watts Power
- Best for compact commercial power: COMMERCIAL CHEF 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave with 10 Power Levels
- Best for spacious sensor cook: GE Countertop Microwave Oven
- Best for air fry convection: GE GCST10A1WSS 1.0 Cu Ft Convection Microwave Oven
- Best for compact quick cook: Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Product Comparison: Best Quality Microwave Brand
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4″ Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior Black Color 1000W
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass turntable.
- Smart Sensor Technology for Optimal Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. Say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked dishes.
- 6 Preset Menus: This countertop microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like pizza, veggle, sensor reheat and more.
- 10 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
- Mute Mode: If yout want to mute the buzzer of the microwave, please long press on the button “8” For 3-5 seconds. The buzzer is automatically switched off after a long beep.
Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor, 6 Menus, Auto Defrost, ECO Mode, Mute Option & 16.5″ Position Memory Turntable, 2.2 Cu Ft, 1200W, Stainless Steel
- 【Large Capacity】2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity countertop microwave with 1200W power is perfect for large families. It can easily accommodate a 16-inch pizza and a whole chicken.
- 【Intuitive Humidity Sensor】The built-in humidity sensor with 6 Automatic Preset Menus gives your food an even heating result and seals the moisture inside for optimal results.
- 【6 Auto Menus】Equipped with 6 menus that fits your most daily needs including: bacon, frozen roll/muffin-reheat, beverage, chicken pieces and oatmeal.
- 【Auto-Defrost Function】 The Auto-Defrost Function defrosts meat, poultry and fish with different programs, simulating a natural defrost environment and achieving optimal defrosting results.
- 【Easy to Use】Kitchen essential with One pound/ auto defrost, energy-saving eco mode and sound on/off function, speedy cooking, memory function, multi-stage cooking, child safety lock, indoor light, clock and kitchen time.
TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology, Kitchen Essentials, Smart Sensor, Auto Defrost, 1.6 Cu.ft, 13.6″ Removable Turntable, 33lb.&1250W, Black Stainless Steel
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- Specification: With output power 1250 watts, input power 1350 watts. External dimensions 21.8x 19.2x 12.9 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 15.5×17.0x 10.2 inches (WxDxH); includes 13.6 inch glass turntable
- Origin Inverter Technology: This microwave oven with inverter technology, provides even heating and defrosting, enables faster cooking and more satisfying user experience.
- 6 Smart Sensor Auto Menus: Pre-programmed sensor menus for optimum heating of popular foods like pizza, potato, vegetables and more. Smart sensor will automatically adjust power and keeps food texture.
- Sound On/Off Function: If you wish to mute the buzzer of the microwave, pleas long press on the button “8” for 3-5 seconds. The buzzer is automatically switched off after a long beep.
- Quick Start Button One touch quick access to start the countertop microwave from 1 to 3 minutes cooking at full power
- First Use Tips The microwaves keypad is covered by a protective film during shipment. Please peel it off before first use. 1 year limited warranty, please keep the packaging for contacting Toshiba after sales service and product returns.
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4″ Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor, 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior, 1000W, Silver
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass turntable.
- Smart Sensor Technology for Optimal Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. Say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked dishes.
- 6 Preset Menus: This countertop microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like pizza, veggle, sensor reheat and more.
- 10 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
TOSHIBA ML4-EM12PA(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Stylish Design As Kitchen Essentials, Smart Sensor, 13 Auto Menus&Mute Function, 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4″ Turntable, 1000W, Black Stainless Steel
- Compact Design: With external dimensions of 20.6×16.3×11.8 inches (WxDxH) and internal dimensions of 13.9×14.1×10 inches (WxDxH), this stylish black stainless steel microwave oven is a space-saving kitchen essential, perfect for dorm rooms or apartments.
- Versatile Cooking: Featuring 10 unique power levels and 13 preset menus for effortless sensor cook of various dishes, snacks, and beverages, this microwave offers culinary flexibility with a 1000W output power and 1600W input power.
- User-Friendly Features: Enjoy convenient functions like defrosting frozen food by weight or time, mute mode to silence the beeping sound, and a memory function to save and retrieve dish settings with ease.
- Sleek and Modern Design: The microwave oven’s 12.4-inch glass turntable and black stainless steel exterior finish provide a modern touch, perfect for any kitchen decor.
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase refer to the product manual for proper usage.
Farberware 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1100 Watts Power, Smart Sensor Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – White Platinum
- CONVENIENT MICROWAVE: Prepare quick and easy meals in a snap with our powerful microwave. It packs 1100 of output power and features a range of settings for press-and-go speed.
- POWERFUL SETTINGS: This microwave has ten power levels with multi-stage cooking. You can fully customize your cooking with six one-touch options, including popcorn, potato, and pizza. Defrost by weight or by time settings to make quick work of any task.
- PERFECT SIZE: Measuring 1.3 cu ft, this microwave is the ideal small-space solution that offers full-sized cooking in a compact space. It features an easy-to-clean interior and exterior and is perfect for the home or office.
- ALL YOU NEED: This microwave has a clear LED display with a kitchen timer and clock that lets you easily keep track of time. Easy-to-view interior lighting lets you keep an eye on your dish, and a child safety lock adds additional security.
- FARBERWARE: From weeknight favorites to family feasts they’ll never forget, Farberware helps today’s families craft the meals that make memories and bring everyone together.
COMMERCIAL CHEF 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave with 10 Power Levels, Small Microwave with Push Button, 1000W Countertop Microwave with Kitchen Timer, Door Lock, & Digital Controls, Black
- Powerful: When it comes to microwave ovens, our COMMERCIAL CHEF 1000 watt microwave (35.3 lbs.) is your solution to fast & delicious food. Microwave popcorn, microwave pasta, & other tasty favorites!
- 10 Power Levels: Our compact microwave (21.3″ x 16.1″ x 11.7″) has 10 outstanding heating settings, including 6 one-touch menus with Weight and Speed Defrost.
- Digital Controls: Heat up food from 30 seconds to 99 minutes with an easy-to-operate digital controls on this countertop microwave with an accurate kitchen timer & digital timer signal when complete.
- Impressive Features: When it comes to countertop microwave ovens, our black microwave cooker is superior with 1000 watts of power, a convenient push button, turntable, & 1.1 cubic foot capacity.
- Grab and Go: This small microwave allows you to heat meals, snacks, and drinks so fast to accommodate your busy life. Our microwave oven helps you can enjoy delicious food without wasting time.
GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1,150-watt Capacity, 1.6 Cubic Ft., 8 Auto Setting Cooking Settings, Child-Lock Technology, Kitchen Essentials for the Countertop, Dorm Room or Apartment, Black Stainless
- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This mandatory feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, with the option to deactivate it if not needed.
- COMPACT YET POWERFUL: 1150 watts of power and 1.6 CU. FT. inside allow for effective, efficient cooking while not taking up valuable kitchen space; glass turntable rotates for optimum cooking
- SENSOR COOKING CONTROLS: Automatically adjusts time and power for delicious cooking results
- WEIGHT AND TIME DEFROST: Simply enter the weight of the food, and the oven automatically sets the optimal defrosting time and power level or set your desired time for defrosting
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: Simple, one-touch operation with Instant On express cooking controls and multiple cooking modes; kitchen timer, and cooking complete alarms add convenience
- GLASS TURNTABLE: Rotates food throughout the cycle for even through cooking of food
- EASY SET UP: Freestanding microwave fits easily on countertop or open shelf
GE GCST10A1WSS 1.0 Cu Ft Convection Microwave Oven, 1050W Countertop Air Fry Microwave with Broil & Crisper Pan, Compact Stainless Steel Design
- COMPACT YET POWERFUL: This 1,050-watt & 1.0 CU FT. compact microwave offers the perfect balance of size and convenience, designed to fit perfectly in dorm rooms, offices and kitchens alike
- AIR FRY MODE: Enjoy healthier, crispier versions of your favorite foods with the built-in air fryer that delivers fast, perfectly browned results
- CONVECTION MODE: Enjoy perfectly even browning using convection technology and an elevated rack that lets hot air flow around your food for consistent results
- BROIL MODE: Built-in broiler radiates high heat to sear, caramelize, and finish foods just like a traditional grill rack
- PRESET CONTROLS: Use microwave preset controls like Fries and Nuggets to make operation quick and easy, while ensuring precisely cooked results
- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This mandatory feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, with the option to deactivate it if not needed
- GLASS TURNTABLE: Rotates food throughout the cycle for even through cooking of food
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 700W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button.
- MEMORY FUNCTION: Program frequently used countertop microwaves functions into the control panel for one-touch microwave food. All your daily favorites are easy to set up and start microwaving.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally, and you can disable the microwave control panel using the Lock Mode.
- MUTE OPTION: Silence this counter top microwave with the Audio Button, turning off any annoying beeps if you’re trying to stay quiet or not wake up your kids.
- MODERN DESIGN: This microwave countertop design fits in well alongside your other kitchen appliances. Its compact frame and sleek, black finish blend in well with any home décor. Plus, you can save power and disable the display when not in use with Eco Mode.
- EASY TO CLEAN: Don’t worry about grease or scuffs; this black microwave exterior is durable and wipes clean with a damp towel. Additionally, the glass turntable is top-rack dishwasher safe.
- TRUSTED QUALITY: cETL approved with advanced safety technology for long-lasting durability and a 1-year assurance provided by Chefman. 700W/120V-RJ55-7-V2
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 are the main size and power differences between Toshiba’s 1.2 cu ft and 2.2 cu ft countertop microwaves?
The 1.2 cu ft models (EM131A5C‑BS/SS) provide 1000 W output and are ideal for couples or small families, fitting comfortably on most countertops. The larger 2.2 cu ft ML‑EM62P offers 1200 W output, allowing you to heat a 16‑inch pizza or a whole chicken without rearranging the food. Higher wattage generally shortens cooking times, while the extra interior space adds flexibility for bulk meals.
How does Toshiba’s Inverter Technology in the ML‑EM45PIT improve cooking compared to standard magnetron models?
Inverter technology delivers a continuous, variable power level rather than cycling on and off, which results in more even heating and better texture for delicate foods. This means soups stay smoother and meats retain juicier interiors. Standard models can over‑cook the edges while the center remains cold, especially on lower power settings.
Which microwave offers the best value for a compact space like a dorm or studio apartment?
The Chefman 0.7 cu ft, 700 W microwave provides solid performance at a low price and fits into tight spaces, making it a budget‑friendly choice. If you prefer a brand with a stronger reputation, the Toshiba ML‑EM45PIT’s 1.3 cu ft size and inverter technology give more features for a modest price increase. Both models include essential safety locks and preset menus.
How important is a child lock feature, and which models include it?
A child lock prevents accidental operation, which is crucial for households with young children. Toshiba’s EM131A5C‑SS, ML‑EM45PIT, and ML4‑EM12PA all list a two‑step child lock, while GE’s 1.6 cu ft model also includes a two‑step lock. Even budget models like Chefman provide a lock mode, so you can choose based on your safety priorities.
Are sensor cooking and preset menus worth the extra cost?
Sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power based on food humidity, reducing the risk of over‑ or under‑cooking, which is especially helpful for busy cooks. Preset menus simplify common tasks like pizza reheating or defrosting by weight, saving time and guesswork. If you frequently prepare a variety of dishes, these features add convenience that justifies the modest price premium.
How does microwave wattage affect cooking speed and food quality?
Higher wattage (e.g., 1200 W in the Toshiba ML‑EM62P) cooks food faster and can achieve more even heating, which is beneficial for larger meals or dense items. Lower wattage models (700 W Chefman) may require longer cooking times and occasional stirring to avoid cold spots. However, for simple reheating or small portions, a 1000 W unit is usually sufficient.
Should I consider a convection or air‑fry microwave instead of a standard model?
Convection and air‑fry microwaves, like the GE GCST10A1WSS, add browning, crisping, and roasting capabilities, effectively replacing a small oven for many tasks. They are ideal if you want healthier cooking options without buying a separate appliance. If you only need basic reheating and defrosting, a standard microwave provides all essential functions at a lower cost.
How do warranty length and brand reputation influence my purchase decision?
Toshiba and GE typically offer 1‑year limited warranties with reliable customer support, reflecting their established market presence. Brands like Farberware and Chefman may have similar warranty periods but vary in long‑term durability reports. Choosing a reputable brand with a solid warranty can reduce future repair costs and give peace of mind, especially for higher‑priced models.