Is your kitchen feeling a little cramped, or are you tired of that bulky appliance taking up precious counter space? You’re not alone! Finding the perfect microwave that fits your needs and your kitchen’s style can feel like a puzzle. So many choices, so little time to figure them all out. It’s easy to get lost in wattage, size, and fancy features when all you really want is a reliable way to heat up leftovers or pop some popcorn.
But don’t worry! We’re here to make that decision a whole lot easier. By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for, understand the different types available, and feel confident picking the countertop microwave that’s just right for you. Get ready to say goodbye to microwave confusion and hello to a perfectly heated meal!
Our Top 5 Microwave Countertop Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave Countertop Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
Rating: 9.5/10
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS is a 1.2 cubic foot countertop microwave that makes cooking easy. It has a sleek black design and a 1000-watt power output, which is great for heating up food quickly. This microwave also comes with smart features that help your food cook perfectly every time. Its large turntable can fit many dishes, and it’s simple to clean too.
What We Like:
- The Smart Sensor Technology automatically cooks your food just right, so you don’t have to worry about it being undercooked or overcooked.
- It has 6 preset menus for popular foods like pizza and vegetables, plus 10 power levels for lots of cooking options.
- The Easy Defrost and One-Touch Start features make it super fast to get your food ready.
- You can mute the annoying buzzer by holding down the “8” button, which is nice for quiet kitchens.
- The ECO Mode helps save energy, and the interior is easy to wipe clean.
- It includes a large 12.4-inch glass turntable for bigger plates.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has 6 preset menus, some users might wish for more variety in the auto-cook options.
- The input power is 1600 watts, which is higher than some microwaves, though this is common for 1000-watt output models.
This Toshiba microwave offers a good balance of smart features and user-friendly design. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and capable countertop microwave.
2. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 8.9/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. is a compact powerhouse designed for your kitchen. It offers 700 watts of cooking power and 10 different power levels, giving you control over your meals. With six handy cooking presets, you can easily heat up popcorn, pizza, veggies, and more with just one touch. This black microwave also features a modern design that will look great on your countertop.
What We Like:
- It cooks food extra-quick with six popular presets.
- You can choose from 10 power levels for precise cooking.
- Digital controls make it easy to set time and power.
- The memory function lets you save your favorite cooking settings.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands out.
- The mute option lets you silence annoying beeps.
- Its sleek, black design fits any kitchen decor.
- Cleaning is a breeze; the exterior wipes clean easily, and the turntable is dishwasher safe.
- It’s cETL approved and comes with a 1-year assurance from Chefman.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be small for larger families or big meals.
- While it has a mute button, the initial setup or some functions might still have audible cues.
This Chefman microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly countertop appliance. It balances convenience with safety and modern style.
3. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 9.1/10
Meet the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven, a sleek and practical addition to any apartment kitchen. Its black stainless steel finish looks great, and its compact size fits easily on your countertop. This microwave is packed with features to make your cooking and reheating simple and efficient.
What We Like:
- The two-step child lock is a great safety feature for families with little ones.
- It has a powerful 900-watt output for quick cooking.
- Six preset menus take the guesswork out of cooking common foods like popcorn and potatoes.
- Eleven power levels and a kitchen timer offer lots of cooking flexibility.
- The easy defrost function by weight or time is very handy.
- One-touch start lets you cook for up to 6 minutes with just one button press.
- The mute function is awesome for quiet kitchens or late-night snacks.
- The interior LED lighting helps you see your food clearly.
- The 10.6-inch removable turntable is easy to clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- The external dimensions might be a bit large for the smallest kitchens.
- The input power of 1400 watts is higher than some microwaves, which could affect electricity usage.
This Toshiba microwave is a fantastic choice for anyone needing a reliable and feature-rich appliance in a smaller space. Its smart design and user-friendly functions make it a winner.
4. Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts
Rating: 9.3/10
The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a fantastic choice for anyone needing a reliable and powerful microwave. It’s designed for convenience and speed, making meal prep a breeze. This 1000-watt microwave, with its 1.1 cu. ft. capacity, offers full-sized cooking power in a compact design, making it ideal for smaller kitchens, apartments, or dorm rooms.
What We Like:
- It has 1000 watts of power for quick cooking.
- It offers ten power levels and multi-stage cooking for customized meals.
- Six one-touch settings, like popcorn and pizza, make cooking easy.
- The defrost by weight or time feature is very handy.
- Its 1.1 cu. ft. size is perfect for small spaces but cooks like a larger microwave.
- The LED display, kitchen timer, and clock are easy to read.
- Interior LED lighting lets you see your food cooking.
- A child safety lock provides extra peace of mind.
- The stainless steel exterior is easy to clean.
- Farberware is a trusted brand known for quality kitchenware.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has one-touch settings, some users might prefer more specialized presets.
- The interior capacity, while good for its size, might be a bit small for very large dishes.
This Farberware microwave delivers excellent performance and convenience for its size. It’s a great addition to any kitchen needing a dependable and easy-to-use appliance.
5. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 9.5/10
The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB is a compact, black countertop microwave that makes cooking and reheating simple. Its 0.7 cubic feet size fits well on most counters. This microwave is designed for ease of use with handy features like one-touch buttons and a bright, easy-to-read display.
What We Like:
- The mute function lets you turn off those annoying beeps, which is great for quiet kitchens.
- ECO Mode saves energy by reducing standby power, helping you save a little on your electricity bill.
- One-touch express cooking makes it super fast to heat things up, with options for 1 to 6 minutes plus a 30-second boost.
- It has easy auto-cook buttons for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and beverages.
- The child safety lock keeps little hands from accidentally starting the microwave.
- The interior light and 10-inch glass turntable make it easy to see your food and clean up.
- It comes with a one-year limited warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu ft capacity might be a bit small for larger families or cooking big meals.
- While it has many features, some users might prefer more advanced cooking options or presets.
Overall, the COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB is a practical and user-friendly microwave. It’s a solid choice for basic reheating and cooking needs, especially if you appreciate quiet operation and energy savings.
Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Countertop Microwave
So, you’re looking for a new countertop microwave. Great! These handy appliances can heat up leftovers, pop popcorn, and even cook a quick meal. Choosing the right one makes a big difference in your kitchen. This guide will help you find the best fit for your needs.
Why Choose a Countertop Microwave?
Countertop microwaves are popular because they are easy to install. You just plug them in and place them on your counter. They don’t take up much space, and you can move them if you need to.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a microwave, keep these important features in mind:
1. Wattage: Power Matters
Microwaves have different power levels, measured in watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most microwaves range from 700 to 1200 watts. For everyday use, 900-1000 watts is usually a good choice. If you plan to cook more complex meals, look for higher wattage.
2. Capacity: How Much Can It Hold?
Microwave capacity is measured in cubic feet. Small microwaves are around 0.7 cubic feet, perfect for a single person or small snacks. Medium microwaves (around 1.0-1.5 cubic feet) are good for families. Large microwaves (over 1.6 cubic feet) can fit bigger dishes and multiple items.
3. Cooking Presets: Easy Buttons
Many microwaves have buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, potatoes, and drinks. These presets take the guesswork out of cooking. They automatically set the time and power level for you.
4. Turntable: Even Cooking
A turntable is a glass plate that spins food around. This helps your food cook evenly. Most microwaves have one, but some larger models might not. Make sure the turntable is easy to remove for cleaning.
5. Size and Dimensions: Will It Fit?
Measure the space where you plan to put your microwave. Check the microwave’s height, width, and depth. Also, make sure there’s enough space around it for air to circulate. This is important for safety and for the microwave to work well.
Important Materials
Microwaves are usually made of metal and plastic. The inside is often coated to make it easy to clean. Look for microwaves with durable exteriors that resist fingerprints. Stainless steel is a popular and stylish choice.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Build Quality: A well-built microwave feels sturdy. The door should open and close smoothly. The buttons should be responsive.
- Ease of Cleaning: A smooth interior surface makes wiping up spills simple. Removable turntables and washable interiors help a lot.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves can be quite loud. If you’re sensitive to noise, look for models that are known for being quieter.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often offer better quality and customer service. Reading reviews can tell you a lot about a microwave’s reliability.
User Experience and Use Cases
A good countertop microwave makes your life easier. It’s perfect for:
- Quick Meals: Heating up leftovers or cooking frozen dinners.
- Snacks: Popping popcorn or warming up a mug of soup.
- Defrosting: Thawing frozen meats or vegetables.
- Busy Households: Saving time during meal prep.
Think about how you will use your microwave most often. If you just need to reheat things, a smaller, simpler model might be fine. If you want to cook more, a larger, more powerful microwave with extra features will be better.
Frequently Asked Questions About Countertop Microwaves
Q: How much space do I need for a countertop microwave?
A: You need enough space for the microwave itself, plus a few inches around the sides and back for air to flow. Check the manual for specific recommendations.
Q: What is the difference between wattage and capacity?
A: Wattage is about how fast the microwave cooks. Capacity is about how much food it can hold.
Q: Do I really need cooking presets?
A: Not always, but they make cooking certain foods much easier and more reliable.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my microwave?
A: Most of the time, you can wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Some parts, like the turntable, can be washed in the dishwasher.
Q: Are more expensive microwaves always better?
A: Not necessarily. A more expensive microwave might have more features or a nicer design, but a simpler, less expensive model can still work very well for basic needs.
Q: What does “inverter technology” mean?
A: Inverter technology provides a more consistent stream of power, which can lead to more even cooking and better defrosting results.
Q: Can I put metal in the microwave?
A: Generally, no. Metal can cause sparks and damage the microwave. Always check your microwave’s manual for specific instructions.
Q: How long do countertop microwaves usually last?
A: With good care, a countertop microwave can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years.
Q: What are some common microwave problems?
A: Common issues include not heating properly, strange noises, or the turntable not spinning. These can sometimes be fixed, but often mean it’s time for a new microwave.
Q: Should I buy a microwave with a convection feature?
A: Convection microwaves can bake and broil, offering more cooking options. If you want to do more than just heat food, this could be a good feature for you.
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!