Comparison: Nyt Best Microwave (Updated | Dec 8th)
Looking for the best microwave but overwhelmed by choices? We’ve been there. Whether you’re reheating leftovers or whipping up a quick snack, the right microwave makes all the difference. In this comparison, we’ll break down what sets each recommended option apart—performance, ease of use, and value—so you can choose with confidence and stop guessing what’s truly worth it.
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 compact child‑lock: TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
- Best for digital power flex: Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
- Best for push‑button door: BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
- Best for chefdefrost speed: TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven with 11 Power Levels
- Best for space‑saving 0.7cuft: Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power
- Best for express 30‑sec cook: BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
- Best for powerful 2‑cuft: GE Countertop Microwave Oven
- Best for mute function: TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
- Best for led compact design: Countertop Microwave Ovens 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700 Watts Microwave Oven With LED Lighting
Product Comparison: Nyt Best Microwave
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.
Compact Child‑Lock
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.
Digital Power Flex
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
Push‑Button Door
BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 1000W, 1.1cu.ft, Black & Stainless Steel, 1.1 Cu.ft
BLACK+DECKER
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.Frequency : 60 Hz
- 1000 Watts Output with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 seconds express cooking, Input power: 1600W
- Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 12.4” glass turntable
- Push-button door release for easy access
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 20.6” x 16.5” x 11.8”; Color of door frame is stainless steel, enclosure is black
ChefDefrost Speed
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.
Space‑Saving 0.7cuft
Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Black
Farberware
- CONVENIENT MICROWAVE: Prepare quick and easy meals in a snap with our powerful microwave. It packs 700 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 0.7 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.
Express 30‑Sec Cook
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft
BLACK+DECKER
- 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
Powerful 2‑cuft
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
Mute Function
TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, Perfect for Apartments & Dorms, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, 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.
LED Compact Design
Countertop Microwave Ovens 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700 Watts Microwave Oven With LED Lighting,Turntable and Child Lock,Compact Microwave Perfect for Apartments and Dorms,Easy Clean Interior, Black
Smad
- Countertop Microwave Oven: Prepare quick and easy meals in a snap with our powerful microwave ovens. It packs 700 of output power and features a range of settings for press-and-go speed
- Powerful Microwave Oven: This black microwave has 10 power levels with multi-stage cooking. You can fully customize your cooking with 6 one-touch options, including popcorn, potato, and pizza. Defrost by weight or by time settings to make quick work
- Compact Microwave: Measuring 0.7 cu ft, this small microwave is the ideal small-space solution that offers full-sized cooking in a compact space
- Microwave Oven with All You Need: Features a LED display, timer/clock,that lets you easily keep track of time. Interior lighting, 9.6″ glass turntable for clear dish monitoring, and a child safety lock for added security
- Convenient Microwave: Our countertop microwave ovens features an easy-to-clean interior. Perfect for busy nights and memorable family feasts, crafting meals that create lasting memories
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 should I prioritize when choosing a countertop microwave?
Look first at the wattage, because higher output (900‑1000 W) cooks food faster and more evenly. Next consider interior capacity; a 1.2 cu ft model like the Toshiba EM131A5C offers more room for larger dishes than a 0.7 cu ft unit. Finally, check for convenience features such as sensor cooking, preset menus, and child‑lock safety.
How does the Toshiba EM131A5C compare to the Black+Decker EM031MB11 in terms of power and size?
Both microwaves deliver 1000 W of output, but the Toshiba provides a slightly larger interior (13.1 × 12.4 × 8.3 in) versus Black+Decker’s 12.4 in turntable area. The Toshiba also includes Smart Sensor Technology and six preset menus, while Black+Decker offers a push‑button door and a stainless‑steel frame for a more premium look.
Which compact microwave offers the fastest defrosting performance?
The Toshiba Small Microwave (model with ChefDefrost) claims up to 40 % faster defrosting thanks to its specialized algorithm, outperforming the standard defrost functions on the Chefman and Farberware 0.7 cu ft models. Its 700 W output is comparable, but the ChefDefrost feature focuses on preserving texture and flavor during rapid thawing.
Is a higher wattage always worth the extra cost?
Higher wattage (1200 W in the GE 2.0 cu ft model) reduces cooking time and improves sensor accuracy, which can be valuable for busy households. However, if you mainly reheat leftovers or cook small portions, a 700‑900 W microwave provides sufficient performance at a lower price point.
What are the key safety features to look for?
Two‑step child locks are common on Toshiba and GE models, preventing accidental operation by kids. Additional safety items include door‑release handles, interior lights for monitoring food, and lock modes that disable the control panel, as seen on the Chefman and Farberware units.
Do preset menus make a noticeable difference in everyday cooking?
Preset menus simplify cooking popular items like popcorn, pizza, and potatoes, reducing guesswork for novice users. Models such as the Toshiba EM131A5C and Black+Decker EM031MB11 include six to ten presets, which can save time compared to manually setting power and time on basic microwaves.
How important is the turntable size for my cooking needs?
A larger glass turntable (12.4 in on the Toshiba and Black+Decker) accommodates bigger plates and dishes, minimizing the need to rearrange food during cooking. Smaller units with 9.6‑10.6 in turntables are fine for single‑serve meals but may require you to split larger items into multiple batches.
Which microwave offers the best overall value for a small kitchen?
The Chefman 0.7 cu ft microwave balances price, power (700 W), and features like 10 power levels, a memory function, and child lock, making it a strong value pick for limited counter space. While the Toshiba models provide more advanced sensor tech, the Chefman’s compact footprint and versatile controls deliver solid performance without a premium price tag.