Comparison: Best Microwave Ever (Updated | Dec 8th)
Let’s be honest—life’s too short for lukewarm coffee and unevenly heated leftovers. If you’re on the hunt for the **best microwave ever**, you’re not just upgrading your kitchen; you’re upgrading your daily routine. From sleek designs to smart sensors that actually work, today’s microwaves do way more than just defrost. We’ve tested, zapped, and compared the top contenders so you don’t have to. Ready to find the one that fits your life like a perfectly warmed burrito? Let’s dive in.
- Best for nutrient-preserving steamer: GoodCook Everyday Microwave Steamer – Vegetable & Fish Cooker
- Best for compact multi-menu: TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
- Best for smart sensor cooking: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
- Best for push-button convenience: BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
- Best for memory-ready compact: Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
- Best for spacious power oven: Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power
- Best for inverter precision cooking: Panasonic NN-SN67K Microwave Oven
- Best for heat-safe plate set: GoodCook Everyday Microwave Plates set of 4
- Best for grill-enabled microwave: Emerson MWG1191SB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Microwave with Built-In Grill Function
- Best for auto-cook essentials: Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power
Product Comparison: Best Microwave Ever
GoodCook Everyday Microwave Steamer – Vegetable & Fish Cooker, Microwave Cookware Preserves Vitamins & Nutrients, Quick Dinner & Meals, Adjustable Steam Release Vent
- FOOD STEAMER & COOKWARE: Preparing vegetables and fish just got easier with the GoodCook Microwave Steamer. A quick and convenient way to cook nutritious meals, ensuring flavorful results with minimal effort.
- PRESERVE VITAMINS & NUTRIENTS: This innovative kitchen steamer simplifies cooking fresh or frozen vegetables while preserving their vitamins and nutrients. It is also ideal for steaming fish to quickly prepare a wholesome meal in the microwave.
- ADJUSTABLE STEAM VENTILATION: The adjustable steam release vent on the lid allows steam to escape and prevents the container from sealing shut for easy and safe cooking. Adjust it to achieve delicious results, every time.
- EASY TO USE: Simply add water to the bottom tray, place the steam tray on top with veggies or fish, cover with the lid, and cook. The steamer is designed with a clear lid to periodically check your food when cooking.
- DISHWASHER SAFE: This vegetable steamer is dishwasher-safe to make cleanup a breeze. It measures 8” x 12” x 2.7” for efficient storage in cabinets and on shelves when not in use.
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
- 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.
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.
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.Voltage : 110 Volts.Rated Input Power(Microwave):1050W
- 700 Watts with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 Seconds Express Cooking
- Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 10” glass turntable
- Push-button door release for easy access
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”
- UL approved. One year limited
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
Farberware 1.7 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless
- HIGH-POWER COOKING: 1000W output and 1550W input for efficient, uniform cooking – ideal for active kitchens.
- SPACIOUS INTERIOR: 1.7 cu. ft. capacity accommodates a range of dishes, from quick bites to large meals.
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL COOKING: Includes options for vegetables, snacks, auto cook, and a potato program for culinary flexibility.
- ADVANCED DEFROSTING: Intelligent time and weight defrost settings for effective thawing.
- RAPID COOKING FEATURES: Quick +30 seconds function and melt/soften options for everyday convenience.
Panasonic NN-SN67K Microwave Oven, 1.2 cu.ft, Stainless Steel/Silver
- Microwave cooking made easy space-saving, 1. 2 Cu. Ft. 1200W stainless steel countertop oven with 11 power levels, smart controls and LED, 3 level popcorn button, 13. 4 inches turntable, easy clean interior, auto and manual controls.Operating Frequency : 2,450 MHz.
- Inverter technology generates a seamless stream of microwave cooking power for evenly heated foods edges to center. Cavity Dimensions (H x W x D)- 9 15/16 x 13 15/16 x 14 3/8 inches
- Smart cooking settings with genius sensor automatically adjusts power and times to take the guesswork out of everyday cooking; includes 16 sensor cook settings; Sensor reheat warms evenly to retain nutrients and texture in leftovers
- Inverter Turbo defrost for all your frozen foods, Turbo defrost accelerates defrosting time to thaw more quickly and thoroughly for more flavorful foods
- 3-Level popcorn button popcorn lovers can choose the optimal popping temperature and time for different microwave bag capacities (3.2, 2.7, or 1.5 ounce ) for Hot, sumptuous snacking
GoodCook Everyday Microwave Plates set of 4
- Reheat and serve leftover meals, snacks and desserts straight from the microwave.
- Set of four stay-cool, microwave plates don’t absorb heat.
- Sturdy plates are also great for use with kids, at picnics, camping or the beach. Plates have a raised edge to help prevent spills.
- Plates stack neatly together for smaller storage.
- A lightweight, unbreakable alternative to ceramic dishes and less wasteful than disposable plates.
Emerson MWG1191SB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Microwave with Built-In Grill Function, 1100W Power, Stainless Steel, LED Timer Display, 11 Power Levels, 9 Preset Cooking Options, Removable Glass Turntable, Child Lock
- Microwave & Grill in One: Experience versatile cooking with Emerson’s built-in grill function, perfect for crisping pizzas, browning casseroles, or achieving that grilled finish on meats and sandwiches—right from your countertop.
- Powerful 1100W Microwave Performance: With 11 adjustable power levels, you can precisely control cooking intensity, from gentle reheating to full-powered meal preparation.
- Sleek Stainless Steel Design: The cabinet and front panel feature a durable stainless steel finish that adds a modern touch to your kitchen while ensuring easy cleaning and long-lasting appeal.
- User-Friendly Retro Controls: Equipped with chromed handle and vintage-style control buttons for effortless operation and a stylish, classic look.
- Convenient Cooking Presets & Defrost Options: Includes 9 pre-programmed settings for everyday favorites like popcorn, pizza, vegetables, and more. Plus, time and weight defrost functions make thawing fast and safe.
Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Black
- 1.1 CU. FT. CAPACITY: Large countertop microwave ideal for family kitchens, offices, dorms, and RVs.
- 1000-WATT COOKING POWER: Delivers fast, efficient heating, cooking, and reheating for everyday meals.
- 10 POWER LEVELS: Customize cooking intensity for precision results.
- 8 AUTO-COOK SETTINGS: One-touch menus for popcorn, pizza, potatoes, frozen vegetables, fresh vegetables, beverages, meat, and bread.
- EXPRESS COOK & +30 SEC BUTTON: Quickly start or extend cooking time with a single press.
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 features should I prioritize when choosing a microwave for a small kitchen?
Look for compact dimensions, sufficient interior capacity (around 0.7–1.0 cu. ft.), and a power rating of 700–900 watts to balance size and cooking speed. Additional conveniences like preset menus, child lock, and easy‑to‑clean interiors add value without taking up extra space. A turntable size of 10–12 inches ensures most dishes fit comfortably.
How does the GoodCook Everyday Microwave Steamer differ from traditional microwaves?
The GoodCook Steamer is a dedicated steaming accessory rather than a full microwave, focusing on preserving nutrients in vegetables and fish with an adjustable vent and clear lid. It requires a separate microwave to operate, but it adds healthy cooking options at a low cost. Its dishwasher‑safe design and compact footprint make it ideal for renters or limited counter space.
Which model offers the best balance of power and versatility for everyday cooking?
The Toshiba EM131A5C‑BS provides 1000 watts of output, Smart Sensor Technology, and six preset menus, delivering fast, consistent results across a range of foods. Its larger 1.2 cu. ft. interior and 12.4‑inch turntable accommodate bigger dishes, while the sensor adjusts time and power automatically. This combination of power, capacity, and intelligent cooking makes it a strong all‑round choice.
Are there any microwaves with grill functionality, and is it worth the extra cost?
Yes, the Emerson MWG1191SB includes a built‑in grill that can crisp pizza edges, brown casseroles, and give meats a grilled finish. The grill adds versatility for users who want oven‑like results without a separate appliance, but it raises the price and may use more countertop space. If you frequently prepare grilled or browned dishes, the added feature can be a worthwhile investment.
What should I consider regarding power levels and preset menus when comparing models?
Higher wattage (900‑1000W) generally cooks food faster, while a range of power levels (10‑11) lets you fine‑tune heating for delicate items like butter or defrosting. Preset menus simplify cooking common foods, but ensure the presets match your typical meals (e.g., popcorn, pizza, vegetables). Models like the Panasonic NN‑SN67K and Toshiba EM131A5C‑BS offer both extensive power control and useful presets.
How important is a child lock or safety feature in a household microwave?
A child lock prevents accidental operation, which is crucial for families with young children. Many models, such as the Toshiba ML‑EM09PA and Black+Decker EM720CB7, include two‑step or push‑button lock mechanisms. While it adds a small cost, the peace of mind and compliance with safety standards make it a valuable feature.
Is it better to choose a microwave with a larger interior capacity or a higher wattage?
The best choice depends on your cooking habits: a larger interior (1.5‑1.7 cu. ft.) like the Farberware Over‑the‑Range model is ideal for big dishes or family meals, whereas higher wattage (1000‑1200W) speeds up cooking for smaller dishes. If you often reheat plates or cook multiple items at once, prioritize capacity; if speed and energy efficiency matter more, focus on wattage.
Do microwave accessories like the GoodCook Everyday Microwave Plates add value?
Microwave‑safe plates provide a lightweight, unbreakable alternative to ceramic dishes, reducing breakage risk and waste from disposable plates. They are especially useful for kids, picnics, or camping, and their raised edges help prevent spills. While not essential, they enhance convenience and safety for frequent microwave users.