Is your kitchen feeling a little… uninspired? Maybe your current microwave is a bit of a dinosaur, or perhaps you’re setting up a new kitchen and need that perfect countertop companion. Choosing a new microwave can be surprisingly tricky. You want something that heats your food evenly, looks good on your counter, and doesn’t break the bank. It’s easy to get lost in all the buttons, watts, and fancy features!
But don’t worry, we’re here to help! This post dives deep into the world of countertop microwave ovens, making it easy for you to find the one that fits your needs. We’ll break down what really matters, from cooking power to user-friendly controls. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for to bring speed, convenience, and maybe even a little style back to your kitchen.
Let’s get started on finding your next kitchen workhorse!
Our Top 5 Counter Top Microwave Ovens Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Counter Top Microwave Ovens Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
Rating: 8.8/10
Meet the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven, your new kitchen helper! This sleek black microwave boasts a generous 1.2 cubic feet of space, easily fitting a 12-inch pizza. With 1000 watts of power, it heats food quickly and evenly. It also features a smart humidity sensor that adjusts cooking times for perfect results on popular foods like potatoes and vegetables. Plus, you can say goodbye to annoying beeps with its handy mute function!
What We Like:
- The large 1.2 cubic feet interior easily fits a 12-inch pizza and a 12.4-inch turntable.
- Smart humidity sensor takes the guesswork out of reheating common foods.
- 1000 watts of power means faster and more efficient cooking.
- The mute function lets you silence the microwave’s beeps for quiet operation.
- ECO mode helps save energy when the microwave is not in use.
- The easy-to-read digital display and simple control panel make it user-friendly.
- Cleaning the interior is a breeze.
What Could Be Improved:
- The keypad has a protective film that needs to be removed before first use, which might be a minor inconvenience for some.
- A 1-year warranty is standard, but longer coverage would be a nice bonus.
This Toshiba microwave offers a great combination of power, capacity, and smart features. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a reliable and user-friendly countertop microwave.
2. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 9.4/10
Meet the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven, a compact and powerful kitchen helper. This 0.7 cubic foot stainless steel microwave is designed for convenience with its easy-to-use digital display and handy features. It’s perfect for quickly heating leftovers, making popcorn, or cooking a quick meal.
What We Like:
- It comes with pre-programmed buttons for popular foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- You can cook with 10 different power levels, giving you control over your food.
- The 30-second express cooking feature is great for quick reheating.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands out.
- The interior light lets you see your food as it cooks.
- The removable glass turntable makes cleaning simple.
- The push-button door opens easily.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s 700 watts, some might prefer a higher wattage for faster cooking.
- The 0.7 cubic foot size is good for small spaces but might be too small for larger dishes.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly appliance. It offers great value for its features and performance.
3. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 9.0/10
Tired of noisy microwaves interrupting your peace? The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a fantastic choice for your kitchen. This compact, 0.7 cubic foot microwave in sleek black is packed with helpful features that make cooking and reheating quick and easy. Its user-friendly design and smart functions aim to simplify your daily routine.
What We Like:
- The mute function lets you silence those annoying beeps, making it perfect for late-night snacks or early mornings.
- ECO Mode cuts down on energy use by reducing standby power, saving you money and helping the planet.
- Easy one-touch buttons and auto-cook functions for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and more take the guesswork out of cooking.
- Express cooking with 1-6 minute and +30 second options gets your food ready in a flash.
- Two defrost settings, by weight or time, ensure your frozen foods are thawed perfectly.
- The bright digital display and clear control panel are super easy to read and use.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands safe.
- It comes with a one-year limited warranty for your peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic foot capacity might be a bit small for larger families or bigger dishes.
- While the silent mode is great, some users might prefer a subtle alert even when muted.
This COMFEE microwave offers a good balance of convenience and quiet operation. It’s a smart addition to any kitchen looking for a reliable and user-friendly appliance.
4. Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts
Rating: 8.8/10
The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a great choice for anyone needing a reliable and easy-to-use microwave. It’s powerful at 700 watts and has a good size for small spaces. This microwave makes cooking fast and simple.
What We Like:
- It offers 700 watts of power for quick cooking.
- Ten power levels and six one-touch options customize your cooking.
- The 0.7 cu. ft. size is perfect for apartments and dorms.
- It has a clear LED display, kitchen timer, and clock.
- Interior LED lighting lets you see your food.
- A child safety lock provides extra security.
- The stainless steel design is easy to clean inside and out.
What Could Be Improved:
- At 700 watts, it might be a bit slower for larger meals compared to higher wattage microwaves.
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be limiting for very large dishes or multiple servings.
This Farberware microwave is a solid option for its intended use. It’s a practical appliance that simplifies meal preparation.
5. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. Digital Stainless Steel Microwave 1000 Watts with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 8.6/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven. This 1.1 cu. ft. stainless steel microwave offers 1000 watts of power and a sleek, modern look. It’s packed with features to make cooking easy and efficient.
What We Like:
- The 6 Express Cook presets are super handy for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- You have lots of control with 10 power levels, perfect for everything from defrosting to cooking meals.
- The memory function lets you save your favorite cooking settings.
- Multiphase cooking lets you use two different cooking times and power levels in one go.
- The mute function is great for quiet kitchens.
- Eco mode saves energy by turning off the display when not in use.
- The +30 button is a quick way to add 30 seconds of cooking time.
- The child safety lock keeps little hands from starting the microwave.
- It looks really nice with its stainless steel finish and removable turntable.
- Chefman provides a 1-year assurance and UL approval for safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many features, some users might prefer a slightly larger capacity.
- The digital display, while clear, could be a bit brighter for some users in very sunny kitchens.
This Chefman microwave is a fantastic addition to any home, offering convenience, power, and style. It’s designed to make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Choosing the Perfect Countertop Microwave Oven
A countertop microwave oven is a kitchen essential. It heats food quickly and makes cooking simpler. Finding the right one can make a big difference in your daily routine. This guide will help you choose the best countertop microwave for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
1. Wattage and Cooking Power
Microwave ovens have different power levels, measured in watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most microwaves are between 700 and 1200 watts. For quick reheating and simple tasks, 700-900 watts is fine. If you plan to cook more often or need to cook things faster, aim for 1000 watts or higher.
2. Capacity and Size
Microwaves come in different sizes. This is measured in cubic feet. Small microwaves are around 0.7 to 1.0 cubic feet. They are good for small kitchens or for just heating up snacks. Medium microwaves are 1.1 to 1.6 cubic feet. They can fit larger plates and are good for families. Large microwaves are 1.7 cubic feet or more. They are best for big families or if you often cook large meals.
3. Preset Cooking Functions
Many microwaves have special buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or potatoes. These buttons automatically set the time and power level. Sensor cooking is a great feature. It senses the moisture in your food and adjusts cooking time. This prevents overcooking or undercooking.
4. Turntable and Interior Design
A turntable helps food cook evenly. Most microwaves have one. Check if the turntable is removable for easy cleaning. The interior should be easy to wipe down. Stainless steel interiors can be more durable but might be harder to clean than non-stick coatings.
Important Materials
The outside of a microwave is usually made of plastic or stainless steel. Stainless steel looks nicer and is more durable. The inside often has a non-stick coating or enamel. These materials are easy to clean.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Microwave Better?
- Even Cooking: A good microwave cooks food all the way through without cold spots.
- Durability: Well-built microwaves last longer.
- Easy Controls: Simple buttons and clear displays make it easy to use.
- Quiet Operation: Some microwaves are much louder than others.
What Can Make a Microwave Less Good?
- Uneven Heating: Food that is cooked poorly is frustrating.
- Cheap Materials: Plastic parts that break easily reduce quality.
- Confusing Controls: Too many buttons or a hard-to-read screen can be annoying.
- Short Lifespan: Microwaves that stop working after a year or two are not a good value.
User Experience and Use Cases
A good countertop microwave makes your life easier. You can quickly reheat leftovers, make popcorn for movie night, or defrost frozen food. For busy people, a microwave is a lifesaver. Families can use it for quick meals. Students can use it in dorm rooms. Even experienced cooks use them for quick tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important feature to look for?
A: Wattage is very important. Higher wattage means faster cooking.
Q: How do I know what size microwave I need?
A: Think about how much food you usually cook and how much counter space you have.
Q: Are preset cooking buttons really useful?
A: Yes, they can save time and make cooking specific foods easier.
Q: Is a turntable necessary?
A: A turntable helps food cook more evenly, so it’s a good feature to have.
Q: What is the best material for the inside of a microwave?
A: Non-stick coatings or enamel interiors are easy to clean.
Q: How long should a microwave oven last?
A: A good quality microwave should last 5-10 years with proper care.
Q: Can I cook full meals in a countertop microwave?
A: You can cook many meals, especially with advanced features, but it’s best for reheating and quick cooking.
Q: What does “sensor cooking” mean?
A: It means the microwave uses sensors to detect moisture and adjust cooking time automatically.
Q: How important is the wattage of a microwave?
A: Wattage determines how fast your food cooks. Higher wattage is better for faster cooking.
Q: Should I choose a microwave with a stainless steel exterior?
A: Stainless steel looks good and is durable, but it can show fingerprints.
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!