Comparison: The Best Microwave (Updated | Dec 8th)
Let’s be honest—life’s too short for lukewarm coffee and unevenly heated leftovers. That’s why finding **the best microwave** can be a total game-changer in your kitchen. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student surviving on instant meals, or just someone who appreciates a perfectly melted burrito, the right microwave makes all the difference. In this comparison, we’ve tested, timed, and toasted some top contenders to help you find the one that fits your life—without the guesswork or wasted watts.
- Best for sensor cooking pro: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
- Best for 8-in-1 air fryer: TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
- Best for compact menu master: TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
- Best for stainless sensor model: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4″ Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor
- Best for compact digital power: Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
- Best for push-button simplicity: BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
- Best for convection air fry: GE GCST10A1WSS 1.0 Cu Ft Convection Microwave Oven
- Best for compact auto cook: Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power
- Best for stainless compact menu: TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
- Best for family sensor power: TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and 13.6″ Removable Position Memory Turntable
Product Comparison: The Best Microwave
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.
TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, with Convection, Broil, Odor Removal Mode, 12.4″ Position Memory Turntable, Child-Lock, 1.0 Cu.ft, Black Stainless Steel, ML2-EC10SA(BS)
- 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.
- 8-in-1 Multifuntional Microwave One microwave with multi-functions of microwave, air fry, bake(convection), broil (grill), combi., low temp., odor removal, defrost can fulfill more usages.
- Healthy Air Fryer Microwave Combo: Enjoy your wholesome fried food with original taste but less fat with healthy air fry.
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimension (WxDxH): 20.6*18.0*11.8 inches, internal dimension (WxDxH):14.0*13.2*9.5 inches, 12.4-inch position memory turntable
- Compact Size but Large Capacity & Powerful: Small Footprint as Kitchen Essential, 12.4inch removable turntable can fit a whole roasted chicken, 12 inch pizza and 8*4 inch casserole, offers the perfect balance of size and convenience.
- Convenience Features with One-touch popcorn, easy-to-turn knobs, position memory turntable, speedy cooking, multistage cooking, clock and kitchen timer, mute function. Stylish Appearance Classic black stainless steel finishes with easy to clean stainless steel interior
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-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
- 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.
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
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
GE GCST10A1WSS 1.0 Cu Ft Convection Microwave Oven, 1050W Countertop Air Fry Microwave with Broil & Crisper Pan, Compact Stainless Steel Design
- 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
Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Black
- 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.
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
- 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 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
- 【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.
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 are the most important factors to consider when picking a countertop microwave?
Look at the interior capacity, output power, and the range of cooking functions such as sensor cooking, convection, or air‑fry. A higher wattage (900‑1200 W) generally cooks food faster, while a larger turntable (12‑13.6 in) accommodates bigger dishes. Also check for safety features like child locks and ease‑of‑use controls such as one‑touch start or preset menus.
How do the Toshiba EM131A5C‑BS and EM131A5C‑SS models differ?
Both models share a 1.2 cu ft capacity, 1000 W output and Smart Sensor technology, but the BS version has a stainless‑steel finish while the SS version offers a black stainless look. Functionally they are identical, providing six preset menus, 10 power levels and a removable 12.4‑in turntable. Choose the finish that best matches your kitchen décor.
Which microwave offers the best value for a compact kitchen space?
The Chefman 0.7 cu ft, 700 W microwave delivers solid performance in a very small footprint, with 10 power levels, six presets and a built‑in child lock for under $80. While it lacks the higher wattage of larger models, its digital controls and memory function make everyday reheating quick and easy. For tight countertops, its size‑to‑price ratio is hard to beat.
Is the Toshiba 8‑in‑1 Air Fryer Combo worth the extra cost compared to a standard microwave?
The combo adds air‑fry, bake, broil, low‑temp, odor‑removal and defrost functions on top of the 1000 W microwave, letting you achieve crispy results with less oil. It retains a 12.4‑in turntable that can fit a whole chicken, so you get both versatility and capacity. If you frequently cook frozen snacks or want healthier fried foods, the added functionality justifies the higher price.
Do sensor cooking features provide a noticeable advantage?
Sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power based on food humidity, which reduces the risk of over‑ or under‑cooking common with manual settings. Models like the Toshiba EM131A5C series and the Toshiba ML‑EM45P use this technology to deliver consistent results for pizza, potatoes and vegetables. For busy households, the convenience and consistency often outweigh the modest price premium.
What are the key differences between the 900 W and 1000 W Toshiba microwaves?
The 900 W units (ML‑EM09PA) are slightly more compact, with a 0.9 cu ft interior and a 10.6‑in turntable, making them ideal for smaller spaces. The 1000 W models (EM131A5C) offer a larger 1.2 cu ft cavity and a 12.4‑in turntable, providing more room for family‑size dishes. Both include sensor cooking and preset menus, but the higher‑wattage version cooks faster and handles bigger items more comfortably.
Which microwave provides the most versatile cooking functions?
The Toshiba Air Fryer Combo (8‑in‑1) and the GE GCST10A1WSS both combine microwave, convection, and air‑fry capabilities, but the Toshiba also adds broil, low‑temp and odor‑removal modes. The GE model includes dedicated air‑fry, convection, and broil settings with preset controls for fries and nuggets. If you want the widest range of cooking methods in one appliance, the Toshiba combo edges ahead.
How important are child lock and safety features when choosing a microwave?
Child locks prevent accidental door opening or unintended operation, which is crucial for households with young children. Many models, such as the Toshiba ML‑EM09PA and the Black+Decker EM720CB7, incorporate two‑step or push‑button locks that are easy to engage and disengage. Prioritizing these safety features adds peace of mind without sacrificing performance.