Comparison: Best 30 Litre Microwave (Updated | Dec 8th)

A 30‑liter microwave corresponds to roughly 1.0 cu ft of interior space, which is ideal for most families and can accommodate a 12‑inch pizza or a small casserole. Choose a model with at least 1.0 cu ft to ensure you have enough room for everyday meals without sacrificing countertop space. Larger capacities may be useful if you often cook bigger dishes, but they can take up more room in the kitchen.

Higher output power (measured in watts) cooks food faster and more evenly; most 30‑liter microwaves range from 900 W to 1,200 W. If you frequently reheat or defrost large items, a 1,000 W or higher model like the Toshiba EM131A5C series will save time. Lower‑power units may be quieter and cheaper, but they can require longer cooking times.

Sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power based on food humidity, reducing the risk of over‑ or under‑cooking, which is especially helpful for beginners. Preset menus provide one‑touch cooking for common foods such as popcorn, pizza, or vegetables, simplifying the process. Models like the Toshiba EM131A5C and GE 2.0 cu ft units include both features for added convenience.

A two‑step child lock prevents accidental activation and adds safety in households with young children. Most mid‑range microwaves, including the GE and Toshiba models, offer this feature at no extra cost. If safety is a top concern, select a model that clearly lists a child‑lock function in its specifications.

Air‑fryer combos combine microwave, convection, and air‑fry functions, letting you achieve crispy results with less oil while still offering traditional microwave speed. The Toshiba 8‑in‑1 combo provides these versatile options in a footprint similar to a regular 30‑liter microwave. However, combo units are usually pricier, so weigh the added cooking methods against your budget and kitchen space.

A larger turntable (12.4 inches) ensures more even heating by rotating the food through the microwave’s hotspot, which is beneficial for plates, pizza, or a whole chicken. Smaller turntables may limit the size of dishes you can use, requiring you to manually rotate food for uniform results. Most models listed, such as the Toshiba and Black+Decker units, include a 12.4‑inch removable glass turntable.

Features like smart sensor technology, Alexa voice control, mute function, and multi‑stage cooking add convenience and can reduce cooking errors, often justifying a higher price. The Toshiba ML‑EM34P offers Alexa integration and a mute button, while the GE models provide robust sensor cooking and multiple defrost options. Evaluate which of these extras you’ll actually use before paying a premium.

Start by listing core specs: capacity (≈30 L), output power, sensor cooking, preset menus, child lock, and any smart features. Then compare price, warranty length, and user reviews to gauge reliability and satisfaction. A model that balances solid performance (e.g., 1,000 W output, sensor cooking) with an affordable price and positive feedback typically offers the best overall value.