Tired of juggling small microwave meals or wishing you had more space for those family-sized dishes? If your current microwave feels like a tiny box that just can’t keep up with your cooking needs, you’re not alone. The world of large countertop microwaves can feel overwhelming, with so many brands, features, and sizes to consider. It’s easy to get lost trying to find one that fits your kitchen and your life.
Choosing the perfect large countertop microwave isn’t just about reheating leftovers; it’s about finding a powerful, versatile tool that makes meal prep easier and faster. You want something that can handle anything from a big bowl of popcorn to a whole chicken, without taking over your entire counter. We understand the struggle of finding that balance between capacity, performance, and style.
In this post, we’ll break down what makes a large countertop microwave truly great. We’ll explore the key features to look for, share tips on how to pick the best size for your kitchen, and highlight some top picks that deliver both power and convenience. Get ready to discover how to transform your cooking experience and find the microwave that will be your new kitchen best friend.
Our Top 5 Large Countertop Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Large Countertop Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor
Rating: 9.2/10
The Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) is a large countertop microwave that’s packed with features to make cooking easier and more efficient. Its spacious 2.2 cubic feet capacity and powerful 1200 watts mean you can easily heat up large meals, like a whole chicken or a 16-inch pizza. This microwave is designed for busy households and offers convenience for everyday cooking tasks.
What We Like:
- It has a huge capacity, so you can cook big meals for your family.
- The smart humidity sensor helps your food cook evenly and stay moist.
- It comes with 6 helpful auto-cook menus for things like bacon, frozen snacks, and oatmeal.
- The auto-defrost feature makes thawing meat, poultry, and fish simple and effective.
- You can easily use it with its one-touch options and helpful features like the mute button and ECO mode.
- The position memory turntable ensures your food always stops with the handle facing out.
- It has a child safety lock to keep little ones safe.
What Could Be Improved:
- While large, its size might be a bit much for very small kitchens.
- Some users might find the number of pre-set menus a bit overwhelming at first.
This Toshiba microwave is a fantastic appliance for anyone needing a reliable and feature-rich oven. It definitely makes preparing meals quicker and more enjoyable.
2. TOSHIBA ML4-EM22PAIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Sensor Cook
Rating: 9.0/10
The TOSHIBA ML4-EM22PAIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven is a powerful and versatile kitchen appliance designed for busy households. Its large 2.2 cubic foot capacity and 1200 watts of power handle big meals with ease. The sleek stainless steel finish looks great on any countertop.
What We Like:
- The Origin Inverter technology cooks food evenly, so there are no cold spots.
- Smart Sensor technology automatically adjusts cooking time and power for perfect results.
- Six auto menus make cooking and reheating common foods simple.
- The large 16.5-inch turntable fits big dishes and is removable for easy cleaning.
- Ten power levels offer flexibility for different cooking tasks.
- The Two-Step Child Lock feature adds an extra layer of safety for families with young children.
What Could Be Improved:
- The external dimensions are quite large, so measure your counter space carefully.
- The child lock activation requires following specific steps, which might take a moment to learn.
This TOSHIBA microwave is a fantastic option for families needing a reliable and feature-rich appliance. It simplifies cooking and reheating with its smart technology and generous size.
3. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
Rating: 9.4/10
Meet the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS, a powerful 1000W countertop microwave that makes cooking and reheating a breeze. Its sleek black design fits into any kitchen. The generous 1.2 cubic feet of space easily holds a 12-inch pizza, and the 12.4-inch turntable ensures even cooking. This microwave also features smart technology to make your life easier.
What We Like:
- Smart Sensor Cooking: Takes the guesswork out of heating popular foods like pizza and vegetables.
- Spacious Interior: Fits large items, including a 12-inch pizza, thanks to the 1.2 cu ft capacity and 12.4-inch turntable.
- User-Friendly Controls: A clear digital display and easy-to-read control panel make operation simple.
- Quiet Operation: The mute function lets you turn off the beeping sound by holding the “8” button.
- Energy Saving: ECO Mode helps reduce power consumption when not in use.
- Easy Cleaning: The interior is designed for quick and simple cleanup.
What Could Be Improved:
- Protective Film: The control panel comes with a protective film that needs to be removed before use.
- Warranty Information: You need to keep the packaging to contact Toshiba for after-service or returns.
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS offers great features and convenience for everyday kitchen tasks. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and user-friendly microwave.
4. GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.3/10
Meet the GE GCST10A1WSS, a 4-in-1 microwave oven that does more than just heat your food. This stainless steel powerhouse packs a 1,050-watt microwave, an air fryer, a broiler, and a convection oven into one compact unit. It’s a fantastic addition to any kitchen, dorm room, or office, offering a versatile cooking experience that saves space and time.
What We Like:
- The air fryer mode lets you enjoy crispy, healthier versions of your favorite foods.
- Convection mode cooks food evenly with its special circulating air rack.
- Broil mode perfectly sears or caramelizes food, just like a grill.
- Preset controls, like for fries and nuggets, make cooking simple and accurate.
- The two-step child lock feature adds safety by preventing accidental use.
- It’s compact at 1.0 cubic feet but still powerful with 1,050 watts.
- The glass turntable rotates food for even cooking every time.
What Could Be Improved:
- The user manual could be clearer about the convection rack’s placement for different foods.
- While compact, it might be a bit large for very tiny dorm room spaces.
This GE microwave oven is a true kitchen workhorse. It simplifies cooking and offers multiple functions in one sleek appliance, making it a smart choice for modern living.
5. Farberware Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts
Rating: 9.1/10
Meet your new kitchen helper: the Farberware Countertop Microwave. This 1100-watt microwave is a powerhouse, ready to whip up your meals in a flash. Its 1.6 cubic feet of space means you get big cooking power in a small package, making it ideal for apartments, dorm rooms, or any tight kitchen space. Plus, the sleek stainless steel design looks great on any counter.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1100 Watts: It cooks food quickly and efficiently.
- Smart Sensor Cooking: Six one-touch options like popcorn and potato make cooking simple.
- Ten Power Levels & Multi-Stage Cooking: You can customize how you cook your food.
- Defrost by Weight or Time: Easily thaw frozen foods.
- Compact 1.6 cu ft Size: It fits well in small spaces without sacrificing cooking capacity.
- Easy-to-Clean Interior and Exterior: Cleanup is a breeze.
- Clear LED Display with Timer and Clock: Easily keep track of cooking times.
- Interior LED Lighting: You can see your food as it cooks.
- Child Safety Lock: Provides extra peace of mind for families.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it offers many features, some users might prefer even more advanced cooking presets.
- The stainless steel finish, while stylish, can show fingerprints easily.
This Farberware microwave offers a great blend of power, convenience, and smart features for everyday use. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and easy-to-use microwave.
Choosing the Best Large Countertop Microwave: Your Kitchen Powerhouse
A large countertop microwave is a kitchen essential. It helps you reheat leftovers, cook meals, and melt butter fast. When you need to fit more food or larger dishes, a big microwave is the way to go. Let’s explore what makes a great large microwave for your home.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a large countertop microwave, there are a few things that really matter.
1. Capacity (Cubic Feet)
This is how much food your microwave can hold. Larger microwaves usually start at 1.6 cubic feet and go up from there. Think about how often you cook big meals or use large dishes.
- 1.6 – 1.8 cu. ft.: Good for families or if you often cook larger items like a whole chicken or a big casserole.
- 1.9 cu. ft. and above: These are the giants, perfect for serious cooks or large households.
2. Wattage (Power)
Wattage tells you how powerful your microwave is. More watts mean faster cooking.
- 1000-1200 Watts: This is a good range for most large microwaves. It heats food evenly and quickly.
- Higher Wattage: Can cook even faster, but make sure your kitchen’s electrical system can handle it.
3. Preset Cooking Functions
Many microwaves come with special buttons for common foods.
- Popcorn: Perfect popcorn every time.
- Potato: Cooks baked potatoes quickly.
- Beverage: Heats up drinks without boiling them over.
- Defrost: Safely thaws frozen meats and other foods.
4. Turntable Size
A larger turntable means you can fit bigger plates and bowls. Make sure it’s big enough for your favorite dinnerware.
5. Interior Light
A bright light helps you see your food as it cooks. This makes it easier to avoid overcooking.
6. Control Panel Design
Look for a control panel that is easy to understand and use. Some have touch controls, while others have physical buttons.
Important Materials
The materials used in a microwave affect its durability and how it looks.
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice. It looks sleek and is easy to clean. It’s also strong.
- Plastic: Many microwaves have plastic interiors and exteriors. Good quality plastic is durable and easy to wipe down.
- Glass Turntable: The glass plate inside is usually made of tempered glass. This makes it strong and safe for use with hot food.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a microwave better, while others can be a downside.
What Makes a Microwave Better:
- Even Heating: A good microwave heats food all the way through, without cold spots.
- Quiet Operation: Some microwaves are noisy. A quieter one is more pleasant to use.
- Easy Cleaning: A non-stick interior coating and a smooth exterior make cleaning much simpler.
- Durable Door Seal: A tight seal keeps heat inside and makes the microwave work better.
What Can Reduce Quality:
- Uneven Cooking: If your food is cold in the middle and hot on the edges, the microwave isn’t heating evenly.
- Flimsy Construction: A microwave that feels light or wobbly might not last long.
- Difficult Controls: Buttons that are hard to press or a confusing menu can be frustrating.
User Experience and Use Cases
A large countertop microwave is versatile. Here’s how people use them:
- Busy Families: Quickly reheat meals for everyone. Cook frozen dinners.
- Meal Preppers: Heat up containers of prepared food.
- Apartment Dwellers: A great option when you don’t have a full-sized oven.
- Office Kitchens: Handle larger lunches and snacks for multiple people.
- Quick Snacks: Pop popcorn or heat up a mug cake in minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best capacity for a large microwave?
A: The best capacity depends on your needs. For most families or those who cook larger dishes, 1.6 to 1.8 cubic feet is a good starting point. If you have a very large family or often cook big meals, consider 1.9 cubic feet or more.
Q: How much wattage do I need for a large microwave?
A: Aim for at least 1000 watts. This ensures your food cooks quickly and evenly. Microwaves with 1100-1200 watts are even better for faster cooking times.
Q: Are stainless steel microwaves worth the extra cost?
A: Stainless steel microwaves often look more modern and are easier to clean than plastic ones. They are also generally more durable. If your budget allows, it can be a good investment.
Q: Can I fit a 9×13 inch baking dish in a large microwave?
A: Most microwaves with 1.6 cubic feet or more capacity can fit a standard 9×13 inch baking dish. Always check the interior dimensions before buying if this is important to you.
Q: What are the most useful preset cooking functions?
A: Preset functions for popcorn, potatoes, and beverages are very popular. A good defrost setting is also essential for everyday use.
Q: How do I clean a large microwave?
A: Wipe the interior with a damp cloth or sponge. For tougher stains, use a microwave-safe cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar. The turntable and its ring can usually be washed in the dishwasher or by hand.
Q: Are larger microwaves more energy efficient?
A: Wattage is more about cooking speed than energy efficiency. A higher wattage microwave might cook food faster, using less total energy for that specific task. However, it also draws more power when in use.
Q: What should I do if my microwave isn’t heating food properly?
A: First, check if the door is fully closed and latched. Ensure you are using microwave-safe cookware. If the problem continues, there might be an issue with the magnetron or other internal components, and you may need to contact customer support or a repair service.
Q: How long do large countertop microwaves typically last?
A: With proper care and regular cleaning, a good quality large countertop microwave can last anywhere from 7 to 15 years.
Q: Can I place anything on top of my large countertop microwave?
A: It’s generally not recommended to place anything on top of a microwave that could block the ventilation. Heat and steam can also damage items placed there. Always ensure there is enough space around the microwave for air circulation.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!