Comparison: Best 850W Microwave (Updated | Dec 8th)
Looking for the best 850-watt microwave but overwhelmed by choices? You’re not alone. Whether you’re reheating leftovers, defrosting meals, or whipping up quick snacks, a reliable 850-watt model strikes the perfect balance between power and efficiency. In this comparison, we’ve tested top brands, checked features like sensor cooking, preset options, and ease of use, and considered real-world performance. No fluff, just honest insights to help you pick the right microwave for your kitchen—because great meals start with the right tools.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for convection over‑range: Sharp R1874T 1.1 cu. ft. 850W Sharp Stainless Steel Over-the-Range Convection Microwave Oven
- Best for spacious powerhouse: GE Countertop Microwave Oven
- Best for removable turntable: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
- Best for quiet soft‑close: Breville BMO850BSS Smooth Wave Countertop Microwave Oven
- Best for memory turntable: TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and 13.6″ Removable Position Memory Turntable
- Best for compact auto‑menus: TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
- Best for dial timer: Sharp R-21LCFS Medium-Duty Commercial Microwave Oven with Dial Timer
- Best for space‑saving: GE Countertop Microwave Oven
- Best for grab‑and‑go: Panasonic NE-1054F Compact Light-Duty Countertop Commercial Microwave Oven with 10 Programmable Memory and Touch Screen Control
- Best for smart sensor: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4″ Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor
Product Comparison: Best 850W Microwave
Convection Over‑Range
Sharp R1874T 1.1 cu. ft. 850W Sharp Stainless Steel Over-the-Range Convection Microwave Oven
Sharp
- 850-watt, over-the-range convection microwave browns, bakes, broils, crisps, and roasts
- 2-color, 7-digit, interactive display; Smart and Easy sensor settings
- 1.1-cubic-foot, stainless-steel interior with light; 13-inch turntable provides even heating
- Built-in exhaust system; hood light, powerful fan, low and high racks included
- Outer Dimensions: 29-15/16 by 16-11/32 by 15-9/32 inches
- Inner Dimensions: 13-13/16 by 8-1/16 by 17-1/8
Spacious Powerhouse
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
Removable Turntable
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.
Quiet Soft‑Close
Breville BMO850BSS Smooth Wave Countertop Microwave Oven, Brushed Stainless Steel
Breville
- The Breville Smooth Wave Microwave takes the guesswork out of cooking with Sensor iQ technology and 15 in-built smart presets, including Smart Cook, Smart Defrost and Smart Reheat; Engineered with 80% quieter soft close door and 50% quieter in operation
- SENSOR iQ TECHNOLOGY: Automatically adjust power to precisely cook or reheat; Countertop microwave’s Smart Reheat feature detects steam released and automatically sets specific time for delicious results; Kitchen appliance understands your cooking needs
- POWER SMOOTHING INVERTER: Microwave automatically adjusts power intensity and delivers smooth, even power when you need more or less; Reheat pizza slices, soup and lasagna with precision; Defrost meats and meals without overheating and drying out edges
- SMART COOK, REHEAT & DEFROST: Featuring 15 in-built smart presets putting all the power at your fingertips; Smooth, low temperature delivers heat evenly without overheating and drying out so you can cook with ease, precisely reheat and delicately defrost
- QUIET MICROWAVE WITH SOFT CLOSE DOOR: Countertop microwave has 80% quieter soft close door and is 50% quieter in operation; Clever touches like Child Lock, Breville Sound Suite and Mute button mean less beeps and clangs, more pops and crunches
- SHORTCUTS AND ONE TOUCH AUTO SETTINGS: Countertop microwave oven has shortcuts panel on inside door for common tasks such as melting chocolate, softening butter, reheating pizza and more; Set your favorites with one touch and get delicious results
- A BIT MORE AND CHILD LOCK: Press ‘A Bit More’ button on countertop microwave to add extra time and get food right without having to start a whole new cycle; Keep your kitchen secure and protect your child with one touch security feature Child Lock button
- SETTINGS: Smart Cook, Smart Defrost, Smart Reheat, A Bit More, Child Lock, +30 Instant Start, Turntable Off and Shortcuts Panel
- WARRANTY: 1 Year Limited Product Warranty; Power: 1250 Watts; Voltage: 120 Volts; Capacity: 1.2 cu.ft/34L
Memory Turntable
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.
Compact Auto‑Menus
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.
Dial Timer
Sharp R-21LCFS Medium-Duty Commercial Microwave Oven with Dial Timer, Stainless Steel, 1000-Watts, 120-Volts
Sharp
- SIMPLE TO OPERATE: The classic dial timer can be set anywhere from 10 seconds to 6 minutes and includes bright LED indicators that permits “at-a-glace” monitoring.
- SPACIOUS INTERIOR: The 1.0 cu. ft. capacity can accommodate a 13-1/2” platter, prepackaged foods, single servings or a half-size pan in either direction.
- AUTO-CANCEL TIMER: When the door is opened during cooking, the remaining time is cancelled; saving energy and increasing the magnetron’s life.
- EASY TO MAINTAIN: Stainless steel exterior wrap and interior for easy cleaning and a commercial look.
- HEATING TIME GUIDE: A handy “on-the-spot” reference for timesaving convenience is located above the timer with recommended times for heating a variety of popular foods.
Space‑Saving
GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 1.1 Cubic Ft., 950-watt Capacity, 6 Auto 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.
- SPACE-SAVING EXTERIOR, SPACIOUS INTERIOR: 950 watts of power and 1.1 cu. ft. inside allow for effective, efficient cooking while not taking up valuable kitchen space; glass turntable rotates throughout cycles for optimum cooking
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: Simple, one-touch operation with convenience cooking controls; kitchen timer, child lock controls and cooking complete alarms add convenience
- WEIGHT & 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
- EASY SET UP: Freestanding microwave fits easily on countertop or open shelf, with 39inch power cord
Grab‑And‑Go
Panasonic NE-1054F Compact Light-Duty Countertop Commercial Microwave Oven with 10 Programmable Memory and Touch Screen Control, Countertop Microwave Oven, 1000W, 0.8 Cu. Ft, Stainless Steel
Panasonic
- GRAB & GO HANDLE: The handle of these countertop microwave ovens ensures fast, smooth, long-lasting performance; these commercial microwaves for restaurant have a see-through door, interior light, anti-theft component, tone control & self-diagnostics
- BOTTOM ENERGY FEED SYSTEM FOR FAST RESULTS: 1000W power and 0.8-cu. ft. capacity; with these compact microwaves, energy travels less distance to reach the food, for efficiency in heating dinner plates, casserole dishes, coffee mugs & kitchenware
- TOUCH-CONTROL WITH BRAILLE: Programmable, manual operation provides 10 programmable memory pads & 20-memory capability; countertop microwaves with 99:99-minute capacity, presets from 10 seconds to 3:30 minutes; 6 power levels & program list
- HEAVY DUTY COMMERCIAL MICROWAVE: A Panasonic microwave oven deal for full-service and fast-food restaurants, convenience stores, offices, hotels, cafeterias, breakrooms and other business-related settings, plus heavy home or dorm room usage
- COMPACT, SPACE-SAVING DESIGN: This compact microwave oven occupies minimal space on a countertop or table; 13″D x 16″W x 13″H
Smart Sensor
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
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.
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
How important is wattage when choosing a microwave, and does a higher wattage always mean better performance?
Wattage determines how quickly and evenly a microwave cooks; higher wattage (e.g., 1200 W) can reduce cooking time and improve browning, especially for larger meals. However, a 850 W model like the Sharp R1874T still delivers reliable heating for everyday dishes and often costs less. Choose based on the size of meals you prepare and your budget.
What should I consider when comparing countertop versus over‑the‑range microwaves?
Over‑the‑range units, such as the Sharp R1874T, combine a microwave with a vent hood, saving cabinet space and providing built‑in exhaust. Countertop models like the Breville BMO850BSS offer more flexibility in placement and often include premium features like quieter operation and soft‑close doors. Decide if you need the extra ventilation or prefer a portable unit that can be moved easily.
Do sensor cooking and preset menus add real value, or are they just gimmicks?
Sensor technology, found in models from Toshiba, GE, and Breville, automatically adjusts time and power based on food moisture, reducing the risk of overcooking. Preset menus simplify cooking common items such as pizza or popcorn with a single button press. For busy households, these features can save time and improve consistency, making them worthwhile investments.
How does interior capacity affect everyday use, and is a larger cubic‑foot rating always better?
A larger capacity, like the 2.0 cu ft. GE countertop microwave, accommodates big dishes, family‑size leftovers, and even small casserole pans. Smaller units, such as the 0.9 cu ft. Toshiba ML‑EM09PA, are ideal for studios or limited counter space but may require reheating in multiple batches. Match the interior size to the typical dish sizes you cook to avoid inconvenience.
What safety features should I look for, especially if I have children at home?
Many models include a two‑step child lock (e.g., GE and Toshiba) that prevents accidental activation while still allowing easy deactivation by adults. Look for features like auto‑cancel when the door opens and mute functions to reduce beeping noise. These safety options help protect kids and make the microwave more user‑friendly.
Is the quietness of a microwave a factor worth considering?
Yes, especially in open‑plan kitchens or shared living spaces. The Breville Smooth Wave advertises an 80 % quieter soft‑close door and 50 % reduced operating noise, while most standard models are louder. If a low‑noise environment is important to you, prioritize models that highlight quiet operation.
How do price and overall value compare across these 850 W and higher‑wattage models?
Higher‑wattage models like the GE 1200 W countertop often carry a premium price but deliver faster cooking and more advanced features such as larger capacities and multiple presets. Mid‑range options like the Sharp 850 W over‑the‑range provide a balance of power, built‑in ventilation, and durability at a moderate cost. Evaluate which features you’ll actually use to determine the best value for your kitchen.