Do you ever stare at your kitchen counter, wondering if that shiny new microwave is the right fit for your needs? Choosing a microwave can feel like a puzzle. There are so many sizes, features, and brands, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and end up with one that’s too big, too small, or just doesn’t do what you need it to. We’ve all been there, wishing for a simpler way to pick the perfect appliance.
This guide is here to help you cut through the confusion. We’ll explore what makes a great countertop microwave, from its cooking power to its handy extras. By the end, you’ll understand the key things to look for, making your next microwave purchase a breeze. Get ready to find a microwave that makes your kitchen life easier and tastier!
Our Top 5 Counter Microwave Ovens Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Counter Microwave Ovens Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
Rating: 8.9/10
Looking for a microwave that makes cooking easy and stylish? The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS is a great choice for any kitchen. This 1.2 cubic foot microwave has a sleek black design and enough space to fit a 12-inch pizza. Its 1000-watt power cooks food fast. Plus, it has smart features that take the guesswork out of reheating your favorite meals.
What We Like:
- The smart humidity sensor cooks food perfectly every time.
- You get 12 auto menus for popular foods like pizza and potatoes.
- The large 1.2 cubic foot interior fits a 12-inch pizza easily.
- The turntable is a generous 12.4 inches wide.
- You can turn off the annoying beeping sound with the mute function.
- ECO mode helps save energy when not in use.
- Cleaning the inside is a breeze.
- The control panel is easy to read with a big display.
What Could Be Improved:
- The protective film on the keypad needs to be removed before first use.
- The user manual is only available as a PDF.
This Toshiba microwave offers a blend of smart technology and user-friendly design. It’s a solid option for anyone wanting a reliable and feature-rich countertop microwave.
2. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 9.0/10
Tired of noisy kitchen appliances? The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a game-changer for your kitchen. This compact, 0.7 cubic foot microwave in sleek black is packed with features to make cooking and reheating a breeze. Its most notable feature is the sound on/off mute function, meaning you can heat up your popcorn without waking the baby or disturbing a quiet evening. Plus, the ECO Mode saves energy by cutting standby power in half. It’s designed for simplicity with easy one-touch buttons and a bright, clear digital display.
What We Like:
- The mute function is fantastic for quiet kitchens.
- ECO Mode helps save on your electricity bill.
- One-touch express cooking makes heating up food super fast.
- Auto-cook functions for popcorn, potatoes, and more take the guesswork out of cooking.
- The child safety lock gives parents peace of mind.
- It has a bright digital display and an interior light for easy viewing.
- The 10-inch glass turntable fits most standard dishes.
- Comes with a one-year limited warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic foot capacity might be small for larger households or big meals.
- Some users might prefer more advanced cooking presets.
This COMFEE microwave is a solid choice for anyone seeking a quiet, energy-efficient, and user-friendly countertop appliance. It offers essential features with added convenience for everyday cooking needs.
3. Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts
Rating: 8.5/10
Looking for a microwave that fits your small space and busy life? The Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts, 0.7 Cu. Ft. is a fantastic choice for apartments, dorm rooms, or any kitchen needing a compact but mighty appliance. This microwave oven boasts a sleek stainless steel finish that’s easy to clean. It’s designed to make meal prep quick and simple, offering a range of settings that are easy to understand and use.
What We Like:
- This microwave packs 700 watts of power, making it great for heating up leftovers or cooking quick meals.
- It offers ten power levels and multi-stage cooking, giving you control over how your food is prepared.
- Six one-touch options, like popcorn and potato, are super convenient for common snacks and meals.
- The defrost by weight or time feature makes it easy to thaw frozen food quickly.
- Its 0.7 cu. ft. size is perfect for small kitchens without sacrificing cooking power.
- The clear LED display with a clock and timer is helpful for keeping track of cooking times.
- Interior LED lighting lets you see your food as it cooks.
- A child safety lock provides extra peace of mind.
- The easy-clean stainless steel interior and exterior make wiping up messes a breeze.
What Could Be Improved:
- While powerful for its size, the 700-watt output might be slower for larger dishes compared to higher-wattage microwaves.
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be too small for cooking larger items like a whole chicken or a big casserole dish.
Overall, the Farberware Countertop Microwave is a smart and practical addition to any smaller kitchen. It provides the essential features you need for everyday cooking with a user-friendly design.
4. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 8.7/10
Meet the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven in sleek Black Stainless Steel. This compact microwave is a fantastic addition to any apartment or small kitchen. It offers a 0.9 cubic foot capacity, making it just right for reheating leftovers, popping popcorn, or quickly cooking meals. The 10.6-inch removable glass turntable fits most standard dishes with ease.
What We Like:
- It has a handy Two-Step Child Lock to keep little hands safe.
- The 900-watt power output heats food quickly and evenly.
- Six preset menus for popular foods like popcorn and potatoes make cooking simple.
- You can choose from 11 different power levels for flexible cooking.
- The Mute Mode lets you turn off the annoying beeping sounds.
- Easy Defrost and One-Touch Start functions are super convenient.
- The LED lighting inside helps you see your food while it cooks.
What Could Be Improved:
- The input power is 1400 watts, which is higher than the output power.
This TOSHIBA microwave is a user-friendly and safe option for busy households. It offers great features for its size.
5. Magic Chef Compact Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.6/10
Meet the Magic Chef Compact Countertop Microwave Oven, a 1,000-watt powerhouse in a sleek white finish. This 1.1 cubic foot digital kitchen appliance makes cooking and reheating a breeze. With its intuitive controls, one-touch cooking options, and safety features like a child lock, it’s a smart addition to any kitchen, big or small. It’s designed for everyday convenience, offering reliable performance from a brand with over 90 years of experience in the USA.
What We Like:
- It has 10 power levels for cooking different foods just right.
- The auto-defrost feature takes the guesswork out of thawing frozen items.
- The LED display and electronic controls are easy to understand and use.
- A 30-second express cooking button is great for quick reheating.
- The glass turntable ensures your food cooks evenly every time.
- Auto-cook settings for popular items like popcorn and pizza are super handy.
- The child safety lock provides peace of mind for families.
- Magic Chef is a trusted brand known for affordable and reliable products.
What Could Be Improved:
- While compact, the 1.1 cu. ft. capacity might be a bit small for larger families or bulky dishes.
- The white exterior, while classic, could show dirt or smudges more easily than darker colors.
This Magic Chef microwave is a solid choice for anyone seeking a functional and user-friendly countertop appliance. Its blend of convenience features and reliable performance makes it a worthwhile kitchen upgrade.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Countertop Microwave Oven Companion
Finding the right countertop microwave oven can make meal prep and reheating a breeze. This guide will help you choose the best one for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep these important features in mind:
Wattage
Microwaves use wattage to heat food. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Look for at least 900 watts for most everyday tasks. Smaller microwaves might have lower wattage, which is okay if you only reheat small portions.
Capacity
Microwave capacity is measured in cubic feet. This tells you how much food you can fit inside.
- Small (0.5-0.9 cu. ft.): Good for small kitchens or single people.
- Medium (1.0-1.5 cu. ft.): A popular size for families.
- Large (1.6+ cu. ft.): Great for cooking larger meals or baking dishes.
Cooking Presets
Many microwaves have special buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or potatoes. These presets take the guesswork out of cooking times and power levels.
Turntable
A turntable rotates food to ensure it heats evenly. Most microwaves have this feature, and it’s important for good results.
Ease of Use
Look for simple controls and a clear display. You want to be able to set the time and power easily.
Safety Features
Child lock features are great for families with young children. Also, check that the door closes securely.
Important Materials
The materials used in a microwave can affect its durability and how well it heats.
Exterior Casing
Most microwaves have an exterior made of steel or plastic. Steel is generally more durable and looks sleeker. Plastic can be lighter but might not last as long.
Interior Cavity
The inside of the microwave is usually coated. Common coatings include:
- Enamel: Easy to clean and affordable.
- Stainless Steel: Durable and looks modern, but can be harder to clean if food splatters.
- Ceramic Enamel: A good balance of durability and easy cleaning.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a microwave better or worse.
Build Quality
A well-built microwave feels sturdy. The door should open and close smoothly. Buttons should be responsive.
Heating Evenness
A good microwave heats food evenly. This is often related to the wattage and the design of the heating element.
Noise Level
Some microwaves can be quite noisy when running. If you’re sensitive to noise, look for reviews that mention how loud the microwave is.
Energy Efficiency
While most microwaves use a good amount of energy, some are designed to be more efficient than others.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use your microwave will help you decide which features are most important.
Everyday Reheating
If you just need to reheat leftovers or warm up drinks, a smaller, basic model with simple controls will work well.
Cooking and Baking
For more involved cooking, like baking potatoes or cooking frozen meals, a higher wattage and larger capacity microwave are better. Some microwaves also have convection features, which allow them to bake and roast like a regular oven.
Small Kitchens
If counter space is limited, a compact microwave is the perfect choice. These are usually lower in wattage and capacity but fit easily into tight spots.
Families
Larger families might need a microwave with a bigger capacity to reheat multiple servings or cook family-sized meals. Safety features like child lock are also important.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best wattage for a countertop microwave?
A: For most everyday use, aim for at least 900 watts. This ensures faster and more even heating.
Q: How do I choose the right size (capacity)?
A: Consider how much food you usually heat or cook. Small kitchens or single users might prefer 0.5-0.9 cubic feet. Families usually need 1.0-1.5 cubic feet or more.
Q: Are cooking presets really helpful?
A: Yes, cooking presets can simplify meal preparation. They automatically set the cooking time and power level for common foods.
Q: Does the turntable matter?
A: Yes, a turntable is very important. It rotates your food to ensure it heats evenly on all sides.
Q: What’s the difference between enamel and stainless steel interiors?
A: Enamel interiors are easier to clean. Stainless steel interiors are more durable and look modern but can be harder to wipe clean after splatters.
Q: Should I worry about how loud the microwave is?
A: If you’re sensitive to noise, it’s a good idea to check reviews for comments on the microwave’s sound level.
Q: What is a convection microwave?
A: A convection microwave has an extra heating element and fan. This allows it to bake, roast, and broil food, similar to a regular oven.
Q: Is a child lock feature necessary?
A: A child lock feature is highly recommended if you have young children in your home. It prevents them from accidentally starting the microwave.
Q: How important is the exterior material?
A: The exterior material, usually steel or plastic, affects durability and appearance. Steel is generally more robust.
Q: Where should I place my countertop microwave?
A: Place your microwave on a stable, flat surface with at least 3 inches of clearance on the sides and top. This allows for proper ventilation.
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!