Comparison: Which Is The Best Microwave Oven (Updated | Dec 8th)
Let’s be honest—nobody wants to stand over a cold meal waiting forever to reheat it. A great microwave oven can be a game-changer in the kitchen, whether you’re zapping leftovers or whipping up a quick snack. But with so many models out there, how do you know which one’s truly the best? We’ve tested, compared, and lived with top contenders to bring you real insights. Spoiler: not all microwaves are created equal. Ready to find the one that fits your life perfectly? Let’s dive in.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for 8‑in‑1 powerhouse: TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
- Best for sensor smart cook: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
- Best for compact quick cook: Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
- Best for air‑fry convection: GE GCST10A1WSS 1.0 Cu Ft Convection Microwave Oven
- Best for 5‑in‑1 versatile: BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry
- Best for large family capacity: TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and 13.6″ Removable Position Memory Turntable
- Best for space‑saving essentials: TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
- Best for chefdefrost pro: TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven with 11 Power Levels
- Best for spacious sensor cook: GE Countertop Microwave Oven
- Best for over‑the‑range pro: GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
Product Comparison: Which Is The Best Microwave Oven
8‑In‑1 Powerhouse
TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, with Convection, Broil, Odor Removal Mode, 12.4″ Position Memory Turntable, Child-Lock, 1.0 Cu.ft, Black Stainless Steel, ML2-EC10SA(BS)
TOSHIBA
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- 8-in-1 Multifuntional Microwave One microwave with multi-functions of microwave, air fry, bake(convection), broil (grill), combi., low temp., odor removal, defrost can fulfill more usages.
- Healthy Air Fryer Microwave Combo: Enjoy your wholesome fried food with original taste but less fat with healthy air fry.
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimension (WxDxH): 20.6*18.0*11.8 inches, internal dimension (WxDxH):14.0*13.2*9.5 inches, 12.4-inch position memory turntable
- Compact Size but Large Capacity & Powerful: Small Footprint as Kitchen Essential, 12.4inch removable turntable can fit a whole roasted chicken, 12 inch pizza and 8*4 inch casserole, offers the perfect balance of size and convenience.
- Convenience Features with One-touch popcorn, easy-to-turn knobs, position memory turntable, speedy cooking, multistage cooking, clock and kitchen timer, mute function. Stylish Appearance Classic black stainless steel finishes with easy to clean stainless steel interior
Sensor Smart Cook
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
TOSHIBA
- 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.
Compact Quick Cook
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
Chefman
- 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
Air‑Fry Convection
GE GCST10A1WSS 1.0 Cu Ft Convection Microwave Oven, 1050W Countertop Air Fry Microwave with Broil & Crisper Pan, Compact Stainless Steel Design
GE
- 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
5‑In‑1 Versatile
BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry, Combi, Bake, Roast, and Convection Cooking, 0.9 cu. ft. Countertop Microwave, Stainless Steel, 900 Watts, Child-Lock, ES9P032NA
BLACK+DECKER
- 5-in-1 Microwave Oven: Use this essential countertop appliance for cooking in five functions: microwave, air fryer, combi (grill/convection), bake, and roast for all of your culinary needs.
- 10 Cooking Levels: Featuring a 900-watt output, this compact microwave has 7 auto menus, including settings for Beverage, Fresh/Frozen Vegetables, Oatmeal, Potato, Popcorn, and Frozen Pizza.
- Air Fry Presets: This small-but-mighty microwave has 11 preset air fry menus, including for cooking frozen French fries, steak fries, squid rings, chicken nuggets/wings/legs, fish sticks/fillets, cheese sticks, vegetables, and spring rolls with an easy-to-use operation.
- Speedy Cooking: Directly press the start button to cook food at 100% power for 30 seconds and press again for an additional 30 seconds.
- Child-Lock Setting: Press the stop button for 3 seconds to lock the control panel to keep little hands from clicking buttons on the appliance.
Large Family Capacity
TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and 13.6″ Removable Position Memory Turntable, Sound On/Off Function, 1200W, 1.6 Cu.ft, Black Stainless Steel
TOSHIBA
- 【Better texture with sensor menus 】This 1200-watt high power countertop microwave with 10 power levels includes a pre-programmed sensor menu for optimum heating of popular foods like pizza, potato, vegetable and more
- 【Large Capacity for a Family Size】1.6 cu. ft. capacity ; 13.6″ turntable; fitting a 13inch pizza; with one touch popcorn button as kitchen essential
- 【Position Memory Turntable】 Innovative position-memory technique resets the turntable to the initial position for more convenient and safer use
- 【Convenience Features】Auto defrost, fast cooking, memory function, multi-stage cooking, child safety lock, clock and kitchen timer
- 【Sound On/Off Function】If you wish 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.
- 【Stylish Design for Kitchen】Stylish black stainless-steel finish adds the perfect look in every kitchen
- 【Product Specs】External dimension (WxDxH): 21.77″x17.91″x12.87″, internal dimension (WxDxH): 15.51″x17.05″x10.24″,13.6″position memory turntable
- 【First Use Tips】The keypad is covered by a protective film during shipment; Please peel it off before first use.
Space‑Saving Essentials
TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, Perfect for Apartment, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Black Stainless Steel
TOSHIBA
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- Microwave output power 900 watts, input power 1400 watts. External dimensions 18.7x 14.7x 10.7 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 12.1 x 10.9 x 7.6 inches (WxDxH); includes 10.6-inch glass turntable.
- 6 Preset Menus: This compact microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potato and more.
- 11 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 you wish to silence the beeping sound that signals the end of cooking, please long press on the button “8” For 3-5 seconds. The buzzer is automatically switched off after a long beep.
ChefDefrost Pro
TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven with 11 Power Levels, ChefDefrost, Sound On/Off & Eco Mode, 0.7 Cu Ft, 700W, Black, MM-EM07PA(BK)
TOSHIBA
- Compact Design: 700W output power and 1020W input power, external dimensions (WDH): 17.1 x 12.2 x 9.5 inches, internal dimensions (WDH): 11.8 x 11.7 x 8.1 inch, 9.6-inch glass turntable
- ChefDefrost Feature: The sophisticated ChefDefrost offers up to 40% faster defrosting compared to traditional methods while preserving the original texture and flavor of foods.
- 6 Auto Menus: Countertop microwave oven featuring 6 auto menu options for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potato and more.
- 11 Unique Power Levels: Customize your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility. This essential appliance is perfect for everything from warming up beverages to cooking entrees, side dishes, snacks, and much more.
- Easy to Use: The control panel includes One Touch Start with buttons to operate 1 to 6 minutes of full-power cooking, Child Lock Function, ECO Mode, Clock, and a Kitchen Timer.
- Mute Mode: Silence the beeping sound that signals the end of cooking by holding the button “8” for 3-5 seconds.
Spacious Sensor Cook
GE Countertop Microwave Oven,1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8 Auto Setting Cooking Settings, Child-Lock Technology, Kitchen Essentials for the Countertop, Dorm Room or Apartment, 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.
- COMPACT YET POWERFUL: 1200watts of power and 2.0 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
Over‑the‑Range Pro
GE JVM3160RFSS 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel Bundle with 2 YR CPS Enhanced Protection Pack
GE
- GE USA AUTHORIZED – Includes 2 Year Extended Protection Plan in ADDITION to the Included FULL
- Charcoal filter replacement for microwaves with behind the door grille | 1.6 cu. ft. capacity | Convenience cooking | controls | Dimensions: 13″D x 16″W x 9″H
- BUNDLE INCLUDES: GE 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven Stainless Steel
- 2 Year Premium Extended Service Protection Plan
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 specifications should I compare when choosing a microwave oven?
Focus on microwave power (watts), interior capacity (cubic feet), and available cooking modes such as convection, air‑fry, or grill. Also check for extra features like sensor cooking, child‑lock safety, and turntable size, which affect convenience and versatility. Higher wattage generally means faster cooking, while a larger cavity accommodates bigger dishes.
How does an 8‑in‑1 combo like the Toshiba Air Fryer Microwave differ from a standard microwave?
The 8‑in‑1 model adds air‑fry, convection bake, grill, low‑temp, odor‑removal, and defrost functions, letting you replace several kitchen appliances with one unit. It still delivers 1000 W of microwave power, but the extra modes increase cooking flexibility and can produce healthier, crispier results. The trade‑off is a higher price point compared to basic microwaves.
Is a higher wattage always better for everyday use?
Higher wattage (e.g., 1200 W in the Toshiba ML‑EM45P) speeds up cooking and improves browning, which is useful for reheating large meals or using convection. However, for simple tasks like reheating leftovers, a 700–900 W model such as the Chefman or Black+Decker is sufficient and often more affordable. Choose wattage based on the complexity of dishes you plan to prepare.
What should I consider about capacity and turntable size?
A larger interior (1.0–2.0 cu ft.) allows you to fit whole chickens, pizzas, or casserole dishes, while a bigger turntable (12‑13 in.) ensures even cooking. Models like the GE GCST10A1WSS and Toshiba ML‑EM45P offer 1.0 cu ft. with 12.4‑13.6 in. turntables, striking a good balance for most families. If space is limited, a compact 0.7 cu ft. unit like the Chefman may be more appropriate.
How valuable are preset cooking programs and sensor technology?
Presets and sensor cooking simplify the process by automatically adjusting time and power for common foods, reducing the risk of over‑ or under‑cooking. Models such as the Toshiba EM131A5C‑BS and GE Countertop Microwave include multiple presets and sensor menus, which are especially helpful for beginners. These features add convenience and can justify a slightly higher price.
Are child‑lock features essential, and do they differ between models?
Child‑lock safety is important for households with young children, preventing accidental activation. Most models—Toshiba 8‑in‑1, Black+Decker, and GE—offer a two‑step or press‑and‑hold lock, but the activation method varies. Look for a lock that is easy to enable and disable without compromising everyday usability.
Which microwave offers the best overall value for a typical kitchen?
The Toshiba EM131A5C‑BS provides a solid mix of 1000 W power, 1.2 cu ft. capacity, sensor cooking, and six presets at a mid‑range price, making it a strong all‑round choice. If you want air‑fry capability without a large price jump, the Black+Decker 5‑in‑1 offers 900 W and 11 air‑fry presets. Ultimately, value depends on whether you prioritize extra functions, capacity, or budget.