Comparison: Best Quality Microwave Oven (Updated | Dec 8th)
Looking to upgrade your kitchen game with a microwave that actually delivers on performance and durability? We’ve tested, compared, and lived with the top models so you don’t have to guess what’s worth your hard-earned cash. Spoiler: not all microwaves are created equal.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for smart sensor cooking: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
- Best for inverter even heating: TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology
- Best for compact power microwave: TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
- Best for sleek stainless cook: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4″ Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor
- Best for air fry convection: GE GCST10A1WSS 1.0 Cu Ft Convection Microwave Oven
- Best for family size sensor: TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and 13.6″ Removable Position Memory Turntable
- Best for chefdefrost power: TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven with 11 Power Levels
- Best for stylish black stainless: TOSHIBA ML4-EM12PA(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Stylish Design As Kitchen Essentials
- Best for modern compact microwave: Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
- Best for smart sensor power: Farberware 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1100 Watts Power
Product Comparison: Best Quality Microwave Oven
Smart Sensor Cooking
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.
Inverter Even Heating
TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology, Kitchen Essentials, Smart Sensor, Auto Defrost, 1.6 Cu.ft, 13.6″ Removable Turntable, 33lb.&1250W, Black Stainless Steel
TOSHIBA
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- Specification: With output power 1250 watts, input power 1350 watts. External dimensions 21.8x 19.2x 12.9 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 15.5×17.0x 10.2 inches (WxDxH); includes 13.6 inch glass turntable
- Origin Inverter Technology: This microwave oven with inverter technology, provides even heating and defrosting, enables faster cooking and more satisfying user experience.
- 6 Smart Sensor Auto Menus: Pre-programmed sensor menus for optimum heating of popular foods like pizza, potato, vegetables and more. Smart sensor will automatically adjust power and keeps food texture.
- Sound On/Off Function: If you wish to mute the buzzer of the microwave, pleas long press on the button “8” for 3-5 seconds. The buzzer is automatically switched off after a long beep.
- Quick Start Button One touch quick access to start the countertop microwave from 1 to 3 minutes cooking at full power
- First Use Tips The microwaves keypad is covered by a protective film during shipment. Please peel it off before first use. 1 year limited warranty, please keep the packaging for contacting Toshiba after sales service and product returns.
Compact Power Microwave
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.
Sleek Stainless Cook
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.
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
Family Size Sensor
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.
ChefDefrost Power
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.
Stylish Black Stainless
TOSHIBA ML4-EM12PA(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Stylish Design As Kitchen Essentials, Smart Sensor, 13 Auto Menus&Mute Function, 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4″ Turntable, 1000W, Black Stainless Steel
TOSHIBA
- Compact Design: With external dimensions of 20.6×16.3×11.8 inches (WxDxH) and internal dimensions of 13.9×14.1×10 inches (WxDxH), this stylish black stainless steel microwave oven is a space-saving kitchen essential, perfect for dorm rooms or apartments.
- Versatile Cooking: Featuring 10 unique power levels and 13 preset menus for effortless sensor cook of various dishes, snacks, and beverages, this microwave offers culinary flexibility with a 1000W output power and 1600W input power.
- User-Friendly Features: Enjoy convenient functions like defrosting frozen food by weight or time, mute mode to silence the beeping sound, and a memory function to save and retrieve dish settings with ease.
- Sleek and Modern Design: The microwave oven’s 12.4-inch glass turntable and black stainless steel exterior finish provide a modern touch, perfect for any kitchen decor.
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase refer to the product manual for proper usage.
Modern Compact Microwave
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
Smart Sensor Power
Farberware 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1100 Watts Power, Smart Sensor Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – White Platinum
Farberware
- CONVENIENT MICROWAVE: Prepare quick and easy meals in a snap with our powerful microwave. It packs 1100 of output power and features a range of settings for press-and-go speed.
- POWERFUL SETTINGS: This microwave has ten power levels with multi-stage cooking. You can fully customize your cooking with six one-touch options, including popcorn, potato, and pizza. Defrost by weight or by time settings to make quick work of any task.
- PERFECT SIZE: Measuring 1.3 cu ft, this microwave is the ideal small-space solution that offers full-sized cooking in a compact space. It features an easy-to-clean interior and exterior and is perfect for the home or office.
- ALL YOU NEED: This microwave has a clear LED display with a kitchen timer and clock that lets you easily keep track of time. Easy-to-view interior lighting lets you keep an eye on your dish, and a child safety lock adds additional security.
- FARBERWARE: From weeknight favorites to family feasts they’ll never forget, Farberware helps today’s families craft the meals that make memories and bring everyone together.
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?
Look at output power (watts), interior capacity (cu. ft.), and turntable size, as they affect cooking speed and the size of dishes you can prepare. Sensor technology and inverter features can improve heating uniformity, while child lock and mute functions add safety and convenience. Also consider the number of preset menus and power levels for flexibility in cooking different foods.
How does the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS compare to the Toshiba ML-EM45PIT in terms of power and size?
The EM131A5C-BS offers 1000 W output with a 1.2 cu ft. cavity and a 12.4‑inch turntable, while the ML-EM45PIT provides a higher 1250 W output and a larger 1.6 cu ft. space with a 13.6‑inch turntable. Both include sensor menus, but the ML-EM45PIT adds inverter technology for more even heating and a slightly larger footprint.
Is a compact microwave like the Toshiba ML-EM09PA suitable for a small kitchen?
Yes, the ML-EM09PA has a 0.9 cu ft. interior and a 10.6‑inch turntable, making it ideal for tight spaces such as dorm rooms or apartments. Despite its size, it still offers 900 W output, six auto menus, and 11 power levels, providing versatile cooking options for everyday meals.
What are the benefits of inverter technology in microwaves?
Inverter technology delivers continuous, precise power levels, which results in more even heating and faster defrosting compared to traditional on‑off cycling. This leads to better texture and flavor retention, especially for delicate foods like fish or vegetables. Models like the Toshiba ML-EM45PIT and ML-EM45P feature this technology.
Should I prioritize a microwave with an air‑fry or convection function?
If you want to replace a separate countertop air fryer or oven, a convection microwave like the GE GCST10A1WSS offers versatile cooking modes, including air‑fry, convection bake, and broil. These functions expand your cooking repertoire but may come at a higher price and larger footprint. For basic reheating and defrosting, a standard microwave with sensor presets is usually sufficient.
How important are preset menus and sensor cooking for everyday use?
Preset menus and sensor cooking simplify the process by automatically adjusting time and power based on food type and humidity, reducing the risk of overcooking. This is especially helpful for busy households that need quick, reliable results for staples like pizza, popcorn, or vegetables. Most Toshiba models, including the EM131A5C series, include six to ten sensor presets.
What safety features should I look for in a family microwave?
A two‑step child lock prevents accidental operation by younger children, and a mute function can silence the beeping for quieter environments. Some models also include a safety lock on the handle, like the Chefman and Farberware microwaves. These features add peace of mind, especially in homes with kids.
Is it worth paying more for a microwave with a larger capacity?
A larger capacity, such as the 1.6 cu ft. offered by the Toshiba ML-EM45P, allows you to cook bigger dishes like whole pizzas or family-sized meals without rearranging. If you frequently prepare large portions, the extra space can be a valuable convenience. However, if you mainly reheat or cook small meals, a 0.7‑1.2 cu ft. model may provide better value and fit better on limited countertops.