Ever wonder how many times a day you use your microwave? Probably more than you think! From reheating leftovers to popping popcorn for movie night, the microwave oven is a kitchen workhorse. But with so many models, features, and price points, picking the perfect microwave can feel overwhelming. It’s easy to get lost in a sea of stainless steel and confusing buttons.
Choosing the wrong microwave can lead to frustration. Maybe it doesn’t heat evenly, or the features are too complicated. Perhaps it’s too small for your dishes, or too big for your counter. We understand the struggle. You want a reliable appliance that simplifies your life, not complicates it.
This blog post is your guide to navigating the microwave maze. We’ll break down the different types of microwaves, explain key features to consider, and offer tips for choosing the right size and power. By the end of this article, you’ll feel confident and ready to select a microwave that perfectly fits your needs and budget. Let’s dive in and find the perfect microwave for your kitchen!
Our Top 5 Microwave Ovens Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave Ovens Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
Rating: 8.6/10
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS countertop microwave is a great addition to any kitchen. It has a 1.2 cubic feet capacity and a 12.4-inch removable turntable. This microwave offers a smart humidity sensor and 12 auto menus for easy cooking. With its mute function, ECO mode, and easy-clean interior, it combines convenience and efficiency. The black color adds a sleek touch to your countertop.
What We Like:
- Pre-programmed sensor menu makes cooking popular foods like pizza and veggies easy.
- Large 1.2 cubic feet interior fits a 12-inch pizza, great for families.
- Stylish black exterior looks good in any kitchen.
- Easy-to-read control panel and large digital display make operation simple.
- Mute function allows you to silence the buzzer.
- ECO mode helps save energy.
- 1000W of power provides quick and efficient cooking.
What Could Be Improved:
- The keypad has a protective film that needs to be removed before use.
- The user manual is only available as a PDF.
- Warranty is only for 1 year.
Overall, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS is a reliable and feature-rich microwave that simplifies cooking. Keep the packaging for warranty purposes.
2. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 9.2/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a compact and convenient appliance for your kitchen. It has a stainless steel finish that looks great. This microwave makes cooking simple with pre-programmed buttons. You can easily cook popcorn, potatoes, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and dinner plates with the touch of a button. It operates at 700 watts with 10 different power settings. You can also use the clock and kitchen timer for precise cooking. The 30 Seconds Express Cooking feature lets you quickly heat things up.
What We Like:
- Easy-to-use pre-programmed buttons for common foods.
- Large LED digital display and easy-to-read control panel.
- Child safety lock to prevent accidental use.
- Removable 10” glass turntable for even cooking and easy cleaning.
- Convenient 30 Seconds Express Cooking option.
- Push-button door release for easy access.
- Compact size fits well in small spaces.
What Could Be Improved:
- 700 watts may be less powerful than some larger microwaves.
- 0.7 Cu.ft capacity might be too small for larger dishes.
In conclusion, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is a user-friendly microwave that offers essential features in a compact design. Its pre-programmed settings and safety features make it a great choice for small kitchens and everyday use.
3. Black+Decker BXMZ701E Microwave 20 Litres
Rating: 9.2/10
The Black+Decker BXMZ701E Microwave is a compact and stylish appliance. It has a 20-litre capacity, which is good for small to medium-sized meals. The microwave features a stainless steel interior (18/10 steel), making it durable and easy to clean. It is designed to fit seamlessly into any modern kitchen.
What We Like:
- The 20-litre capacity is suitable for individuals or small families.
- The 18/10 stainless steel interior makes cleaning simple.
- The sleek design will look good in any kitchen.
- Black+Decker is a trusted brand.
What Could Be Improved:
- Specific features are not available.
- Information regarding power levels is missing.
- We lack knowledge of preset cooking programs.
- Details on the control panel type are absent.
The Black+Decker BXMZ701E Microwave seems like a decent option based on its size and construction. However, the lack of readily available feature information makes it difficult to give a complete recommendation.
4. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 9.4/10
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) is a small, stainless steel microwave oven. It’s a good fit for apartments, dorms, or anyone needing a compact microwave. This microwave has 6 preset menus, a mute function, and a child lock for safety. It also features LED lighting and a removable 10.6-inch turntable. With 900 watts of power, it heats food quickly and efficiently.
What We Like:
- The two-step child lock helps prevent accidents. It’s a great safety feature for families.
- Six preset menus make cooking simple. You can easily cook popcorn, pizza, or potatoes with the touch of a button.
- Eleven power levels give you control over cooking. You can adjust the power for different types of food.
- The easy defrost function lets you defrost food by weight or time. This makes meal prep faster.
- The mute mode is great for quiet environments. You can turn off the beeping sound.
- The stainless steel design looks modern and is easy to clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- The interior space is limited to 0.9 cu ft. Larger dishes might not fit.
- The 900 watts of power might be lower than some other microwaves. This could mean slightly longer cooking times.
- The instruction manual could be clearer. Some users might find it hard to understand all the features.
Overall, the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) is a solid choice for a small microwave oven. It offers useful features and a sleek design at a reasonable price.
5. Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts
Rating: 8.6/10
The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a compact and convenient appliance. It’s designed for small spaces like apartments and dorms. This microwave makes cooking and reheating food quick and easy. It has simple controls and a stainless-steel finish that’s easy to clean.
What We Like:
- This microwave heats food quickly with its 700 watts of power.
- It has ten power levels and multi-stage cooking for customized cooking.
- The six one-touch options make it easy to cook popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- It’s the perfect size for small spaces but still offers full-sized cooking.
- The LED display, kitchen timer, and clock are easy to read.
- Interior lighting lets you see your food as it cooks.
- The child safety lock adds extra security.
- The stainless-steel exterior is easy to wipe clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu ft size may be too small for large dishes.
- Some users may prefer a microwave with more advanced features.
In conclusion, the Farberware Countertop Microwave is a great option for anyone needing a small, powerful, and easy-to-use microwave. It’s perfect for quick meals and small spaces.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Microwave Oven
Buying a microwave oven can feel overwhelming. There are so many models! This guide will help you understand what to look for, so you can choose the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a microwave, consider these features:
- Power (Wattage): Higher wattage means faster cooking. 700 watts is basic, 1000 watts is powerful.
- Size (Cubic Feet): Think about how much space you have on your countertop and what you will be cooking. Smaller microwaves are good for singles; larger ones are better for families.
- Turntable: A rotating plate ensures even cooking. Look for a removable turntable for easy cleaning.
- Pre-set Cooking Programs: These offer one-touch cooking for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, or pizza.
- Sensor Cooking: This feature automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on the food’s moisture level.
- Defrost Function: Microwaves defrost food based on weight or time. Some models have special defrost settings for different types of food.
- Inverter Technology: Some microwaves use inverter technology to deliver consistent power levels throughout the cooking process. This can result in more evenly cooked food.
- Child Lock: A child lock prevents accidental use.
- Smart Features: Some microwaves connect to your Wi-Fi and can be controlled with your smartphone or voice assistants.
Important Materials
The materials used in a microwave affect its durability and safety:
- Exterior: Most microwaves have a metal or plastic exterior. Stainless steel looks sleek but can show fingerprints.
- Interior: The interior is usually coated with enamel, acrylic, or stainless steel. Stainless steel is the most durable and easiest to clean, but it is more expensive.
- Door: The door must seal tightly to prevent radiation leaks. Look for a sturdy door with a clear window.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors impact the quality of a microwave:
Factors that Improve Quality:
- Consistent Heating: A good microwave heats food evenly without hot spots.
- Durable Construction: Sturdy materials and solid construction mean the microwave will last longer.
- Easy-to-Use Controls: Intuitive controls and a clear display make the microwave easier to operate.
- Quiet Operation: A quiet microwave is less disruptive.
Factors that Reduce Quality:
- Uneven Heating: Hot spots or cold spots indicate poor heating performance.
- Cheap Materials: Flimsy construction and low-quality materials can lead to early failure.
- Difficult Controls: Confusing controls make the microwave frustrating to use.
- Loud Operation: A noisy microwave can be annoying.
User Experience and Use Cases
Consider how you will use the microwave:
- Singles/Couples: A smaller, basic microwave is often sufficient for reheating leftovers and cooking simple meals.
- Families: A larger microwave with pre-set programs and sensor cooking can simplify meal preparation.
- Office: A compact microwave is ideal for heating lunches and snacks.
- Students: A budget-friendly microwave with essential features is a practical choice.
Think about what you will be cooking most often. If you frequently cook popcorn, a microwave with a dedicated popcorn button is helpful. If you often defrost meat, a microwave with a good defrost function is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What wattage microwave should I buy?
A: 700-800 watts is good for basic reheating. 900-1000 watts is better for faster cooking and larger portions.
Q: What is the difference between a countertop microwave and an over-the-range microwave?
A: Countertop microwaves sit on your counter. Over-the-range microwaves are installed above your stove and also function as a range hood.
Q: Is stainless steel better than enamel inside a microwave?
A: Stainless steel is more durable and easier to clean, but it is also more expensive. Enamel is a good, more affordable option.
Q: What does “sensor cooking” mean?
A: Sensor cooking uses sensors to detect the moisture level in food and automatically adjusts the cooking time and power.
Q: How do I clean my microwave?
A: You can clean your microwave by microwaving a bowl of water with lemon juice or vinegar for a few minutes, then wiping the interior clean.
Q: Is it safe to microwave food in plastic containers?
A: Only use microwave-safe plastic containers. Look for the microwave-safe symbol on the container.
Q: What is inverter technology in a microwave?
A: Inverter technology delivers consistent power levels, resulting in more evenly cooked food.
Q: Can I microwave metal?
A: No, you should never microwave metal. It can cause sparks and damage the microwave.
Q: How do I defrost food in the microwave?
A: Use the defrost function and follow the instructions for the weight and type of food. Turn the food over halfway through the defrosting process.
Q: How long should a microwave last?
A: With proper care, a microwave should last for about 7-10 years.
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!