Comparison: Best Microwave Oven Japan (Updated | Dec 8th)

Japanese kitchens often have limited counter space, so a compact unit with 0.7–1.0 cu ft. works well for most households. If you frequently cook larger dishes like whole fish or family‑size pizzas, consider a 1.2–1.6 cu ft. model such as the Toshiba EM131A5C‑BS. Balance the interior volume with the external footprint to keep the appliance from crowding your workspace.

Smart Sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on the food’s humidity, which reduces the risk of over‑ or under‑cooking. Manual power levels give you full control for delicate tasks like defrosting or low‑temp reheating. For everyday convenience, the sensor feature in models like the Toshiba EM131A5C‑BS and GE 1200‑watt microwave is a real time‑saver.

The Toshiba Air Fryer Combo (8‑in‑1) and Black+Decker 5‑in‑1 model both combine microwave and air‑fry capabilities. They let you achieve crispy results with little or no oil, which appeals to health‑conscious cooks. If you already own a separate air fryer, the combo may be redundant, but for small kitchens the dual‑function saves countertop space and can justify the higher cost.

A two‑step child lock prevents accidental activation, which is essential in homes with young children. Most mid‑range models—including the Toshiba ML‑EM09PA and GE Countertop microwaves—offer this feature as standard. Investing in a unit with a reliable lock adds peace of mind without affecting performance.

Higher wattage (e.g., 1200 W) generally cooks food more quickly and provides more even heating, especially for dense items like frozen pizza. However, it also consumes more electricity, so a 900–1000 W model can be sufficient for everyday reheating and small meals. Choose based on the types of dishes you prepare most often.

A 12.4‑inch turntable accommodates bigger plates, whole chickens, and 12‑inch pizzas, which is handy for family meals or entertaining. For typical Japanese dishes—bento boxes, small rice bowls, or single‑serve portions—a 10‑inch turntable is often enough. Consider your usual plate size and how often you cook larger items before opting for the larger turntable.

Assess the total cost of ownership: a combo unit may cost $200–$300 more but eliminates the need to buy a separate air fryer, saving countertop space. Look at feature depth—some combos, like the Toshiba 8‑in‑1, include convection baking and low‑temp modes, adding versatility. If you rarely use air‑fry or convection, a high‑quality single‑function microwave such as the GE 1.2 cu ft. model offers better value.

Check the input power rating; models with 1600 W input and 1000 W output are typical and fairly efficient. Features like sensor cooking and auto‑defrost reduce unnecessary run time, lowering electricity use. When possible, choose a microwave with an eco‑mode or standby power‑off feature to further cut energy costs.