Imagine this: you’re craving a quick snack, or maybe you need to reheat leftovers for a hungry family. You open the cabinet, grab your plate, and then… you stare at your microwave. It’s old, it’s slow, and it doesn’t quite get the job done. Sound familiar? Choosing a new microwave can feel like navigating a maze of confusing buttons and endless features. You want something that heats your food evenly, is easy to use, and fits your kitchen. But where do you even begin?
Finding the perfect microwave shouldn’t be a chore. This post will help you understand what truly matters when you’re looking for a microwave. We’ll break down the common problems people face and show you how to avoid them. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly what to look for, so you can confidently pick a microwave that makes your life easier and your food taste better. Let’s dive in and find your next kitchen helper!
Our Top 5 Looking Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Looking Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
Rating: 9.1/10
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave is a modern kitchen helper. It offers 1.2 cubic feet of space, perfect for most meals. This microwave boasts a sleek black design and a 1000-watt cooking power to heat your food quickly. Its smart humidity sensor helps cook your food just right, avoiding overcooking or undercooking.
What We Like:
- The smart humidity sensor takes the guesswork out of cooking. It adjusts the time and power automatically.
- It has 6 preset menus for popular foods like pizza and vegetables.
- You can choose from 10 different power levels for lots of cooking options.
- The “One-Touch Start” feature lets you quickly start cooking for 1 to 6 minutes at full power.
- The mute function is great for quiet kitchens. Just hold down the “8” button to turn off the buzzer.
- The large 12.4-inch turntable fits bigger plates and cooks food evenly.
- The ECO mode helps save energy when the microwave is not in use.
- Cleaning the inside is simple thanks to its easy-clean interior.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description mentions 12 auto menus, but the features only list 6 preset menus. This could be confusing.
- Some users might find the external dimensions a bit large for very small countertops.
This Toshiba microwave is a solid choice for busy kitchens, offering smart features and convenience.
2. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 9.1/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact powerhouse, perfect for small kitchens or anyone needing a quick and easy way to heat food. This 0.7 cubic foot microwave packs 700 watts of power with 10 different levels, giving you control for everything from melting butter to fast cooking. It features 6 handy cooking presets like popcorn and pizza, and you can even set cook times by just pressing the number keys. Plus, it has smart features like an Eco Mode to save energy and a Mute Button so you won’t disturb anyone.
What We Like:
- It heats food super fast with 700 watts.
- You get 10 power levels for perfect cooking every time.
- Six one-touch cooking presets make it easy to use.
- The +30 seconds button is great for extra cooking time.
- The memory function lets you save your favorite settings.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands out.
- The Mute Button is a lifesaver for quiet kitchens.
- It looks nice with its modern black design.
- Cleaning is simple; the exterior wipes clean, and the glass plate is dishwasher safe.
- Chefman offers a 1-year warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- 0.7 cubic feet is a bit small for larger dishes or multiple items.
- While powerful for its size, it might not be as fast as larger microwaves.
This Chefman microwave is a great option for its ease of use and smart features. It’s a reliable choice for everyday cooking needs.
3. Nostalgia Retro Microwave Oven – 0.7 Cu Ft
Rating: 9.4/10
Bring a splash of vintage charm and modern convenience to your kitchen with the Nostalgia Retro Microwave Oven in a delightful Aqua color. This 0.7 cu. ft. countertop microwave is more than just a pretty face; it’s a powerful cooking companion that heats your food quickly and evenly.
What We Like:
- The 700-watt power heats your meals in no time.
- Its 0.7 cu. ft. capacity is just right for small kitchens or dorm rooms.
- The glass turntable makes sure your food cooks evenly.
- You can choose from 8 auto-cook programs for easy meal prep.
- Express cooking gets your food ready super fast.
- Ten power levels give you lots of control over how you cook.
- The child safety lock gives you peace of mind.
- The digital clock is a nice touch.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be too small for larger families or big dishes.
- While it has a retro look, some users might prefer more modern design options.
This microwave is a fantastic blend of retro style and practical features. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a functional and stylish addition to their kitchen.
4. Nostalgia Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven – 0.7 Cu. Ft. – 700-Watts with LED Digital Display – Child Lock – Easy Clean Interior – White
Rating: 9.0/10
Bring a touch of classic style to your kitchen with the Nostalgia Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven. This 0.7 cubic foot microwave packs 700 watts of cooking power, making it perfect for reheating leftovers or quickly preparing snacks. Its charming retro design, complete with a chrome handle and accents, adds a fun flair to any countertop.
What We Like:
- The 700-watt cooking power heats food quickly.
- It has 12 pre-programmed settings for easy cooking of popular foods like popcorn and pizza.
- The LED digital display clearly shows the time and cooking settings.
- The rotating glass carousel ensures food cooks evenly.
- The retro accents, like the chrome handle, give it a cool, stylish look.
- A child lock feature adds safety for families.
- The interior is designed for easy cleaning.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic foot capacity might be small for larger families or meal prepping.
- While 700 watts is good for basic tasks, it’s not the highest wattage available for faster cooking.
This microwave is a fantastic option for those seeking both style and functionality in a compact appliance. It’s a great way to add a retro vibe while still having all the modern conveniences for everyday cooking.
5. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 8.9/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a compact powerhouse that makes cooking and reheating a breeze. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen. This 0.7 cubic foot microwave is perfect for small spaces but still offers enough room for most of your everyday needs. With 700 watts of power and 10 different settings, you can cook or warm up food just right. Plus, it has handy pre-programmed buttons for things like popcorn and pizza, making meal prep even simpler.
What We Like:
- It has special buttons for popular foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- The 30-second express cook button is super fast for quick reheating.
- The large LED display is easy to read, even from across the kitchen.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands from accidentally starting it.
- The glass turntable is removable, making it simple to clean.
- The push-button door is easy to open.
- It comes with a 1-year limited warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- At 0.7 cubic feet, it might be a bit small for very large dishes or multiple items.
- Some users might prefer a microwave with a higher wattage for faster cooking.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and easy-to-use appliance. It offers great convenience for its size and price point.
Your Guide to Finding the Best “Looking Microwave”
Choosing a new microwave can feel overwhelming with so many options. But don’t worry! This guide will help you find a microwave that not only cooks your food perfectly but also looks great in your kitchen. We’ll cover the most important things to consider so you can make a smart choice.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a microwave, think about what you’ll use it for most. This helps you pick the right features.
Capacity and Size
- Small Countertop: These are great for small kitchens or if you only heat up small snacks. They usually hold about 0.7 to 1.0 cubic feet.
- Medium Countertop: A good all-around choice for most families. They typically range from 1.1 to 1.6 cubic feet.
- Large Countertop/Over-the-Range: If you cook a lot or need to heat big dishes, a larger microwave (1.7 cubic feet or more) is best. Over-the-range models save counter space and often come with a vent fan.
Wattage
- Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most microwaves are between 700 and 1200 watts. 1000 watts or more is usually a good starting point for efficient cooking.
Cooking Presets and Functions
- Defrost: This is a must-have! It lets you thaw frozen food quickly and evenly.
- Popcorn Button: Takes the guesswork out of making popcorn.
- Sensor Cooking: This smart feature adjusts cooking time and power based on the food’s moisture. It prevents over or undercooking.
- Convection Cooking: Some microwaves have a built-in oven function. This lets you bake, roast, and broil, making them very versatile.
Ease of Use
- Clear Display: You want to see the time and settings easily.
- Simple Controls: Buttons should be easy to press and understand.
- Turntable: A rotating plate ensures food cooks evenly. Make sure it’s removable for easy cleaning.
2. Important Materials
The materials used in a microwave affect its durability, how it looks, and how easy it is to clean.
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice for a modern and sleek look. It’s durable and resists rust. However, it can show fingerprints easily.
- Plastic: Many microwaves use plastic for the exterior and interior. It’s usually more affordable. High-quality plastic is durable, but cheaper plastic can scratch or melt over time.
- Glass: The door window is typically glass. Tempered glass is strong and safe. The turntable plate is also usually made of glass.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A few things can make a microwave better or worse.
Things That Improve Quality
- Even Cooking: The best microwaves cook food evenly without hot or cold spots.
- Quiet Operation: A noisy microwave can be annoying. Look for models that are not too loud.
- Durability: A well-built microwave will last for many years. Sturdy construction and good materials help.
- Easy Cleaning: Non-stick interiors and removable parts make cleanup a breeze.
Things That Reduce Quality
- Uneven Cooking: This is a big problem. Food might be burnt in one spot and still cold in another.
- Flimsy Construction: If parts feel cheap or wobbly, the microwave might not last long.
- Difficult Controls: Confusing buttons or a hard-to-read display make using the microwave frustrating.
- Poor Door Seal: A bad seal can let heat escape, making cooking less efficient and potentially unsafe.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll actually use your microwave every day.
Everyday Heating and Reheating
- Most people use their microwave to heat leftovers, warm up drinks, or cook quick meals. A simple, reliable model with good presets works well for this.
Cooking and Baking (with Convection)
- If you want to do more than just reheat, a convection microwave is a great option. You can bake cookies, roast chicken, or even make pizza. This replaces the need for a separate oven for smaller tasks.
Small Kitchens and Apartments
- For limited space, a compact countertop microwave or an over-the-range model is ideal. These save valuable counter space.
Busy Families
- Families often need a microwave that can handle larger portions and cook quickly. A medium or large capacity microwave with sensor cooking is perfect for busy households.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important feature in a microwave?
A: The most important feature is even cooking. This ensures your food is heated properly without cold spots.
Q: How much wattage do I really need?
A: For most users, 1000 watts or higher provides good cooking power. Microwaves below 700 watts cook much slower.
Q: Is stainless steel better than plastic for a microwave?
A: Stainless steel looks more modern and is very durable. Plastic is often cheaper. Both can be good if they are made well.
Q: What does “sensor cooking” do?
A: Sensor cooking automatically adjusts the cooking time and power level based on the food’s steam. This helps prevent overcooking or undercooking.
Q: Can a microwave really replace an oven?
A: Some microwaves with convection cooking can do a lot of what an oven can do, like baking and roasting. They are great for smaller jobs.
Q: How do I know if a microwave will fit in my kitchen?
A: Measure your counter space or the area where you plan to put it. Check the microwave’s dimensions before buying.
Q: Are over-the-range microwaves hard to install?
A: Installation can be tricky. Many people hire a professional to install them safely, especially if they need to be wired.
Q: What is the easiest way to clean a microwave?
A: Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth after each use. For tough messes, heat a bowl of water with lemon juice or vinegar for a few minutes, then wipe clean.
Q: How long should a microwave last?
A: A good quality microwave usually lasts between 7 to 10 years with proper care.
Q: Should I worry about noise levels?
A: Yes, some microwaves are much louder than others. If noise bothers you, check reviews for models known for quiet operation.
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!