Ever stared at a microwave oven, wondering which one is the best? It’s a common question! We all use microwaves almost every day. They heat up leftovers, pop popcorn, and even cook meals. But with so many brands and features, picking the right one can feel like a puzzle.
You want a microwave that’s reliable, easy to use, and fits your kitchen. Maybe you need something small for a dorm room, or a powerful one for a busy family. The wrong choice can mean burnt food or a unit that breaks too soon. That’s why knowing what to look for is so important.
In this post, we’ll dive into what makes a microwave oven “rated” and what those ratings really mean. We’ll explore the top picks and what sets them apart. By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a much clearer idea of which microwave oven will be the perfect addition to your kitchen, saving you time and frustration.
Our Top 5 Rated Microwave Ovens Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Rated Microwave Ovens Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
Rating: 9.2/10
Meet the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS, a powerful and stylish countertop microwave that makes cooking and reheating a breeze. With its generous 1.2 cubic feet of space, it easily fits a 12-inch pizza, making it perfect for family meals or entertaining. This microwave boasts a smart humidity sensor and 12 auto menus, taking the guesswork out of heating your favorite foods. Plus, its sleek black design will look great in any kitchen.
What We Like:
- The smart humidity sensor and 12 auto menus take the guesswork out of cooking.
- It has a large 1.2 cubic feet capacity, fitting up to a 12-inch pizza.
- The mute function lets you silence the beeps for quiet operation.
- ECO Mode helps save energy.
- The interior is easy to clean.
- It has a stylish black exterior and a clear, easy-to-read control panel.
What Could Be Improved:
- The user manual is only available as a PDF, which might not be convenient for everyone.
- A protective film covers the keypad, which needs to be removed before first use.
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS is a fantastic microwave that offers both convenience and style. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen appliance.
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 sleek and powerful addition to any kitchen. This 0.7 cubic foot stainless steel microwave is designed for convenience and efficiency. It packs 700 watts of cooking power with 10 different settings, making it versatile for all your reheating and cooking needs. The user-friendly digital display and pre-programmed buttons for popular foods like popcorn and pizza simplify meal preparation. Plus, its compact size fits easily on most countertops.
What We Like:
- It has pre-programmed buttons for easy cooking of popcorn, potatoes, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and dinner plates.
- The 30-second express cooking feature is super handy for quick reheating.
- A large LED digital display and an easy-to-read control panel make operation simple.
- The child safety lock provides peace of mind for families.
- The removable 10-inch glass turntable ensures even cooking and is easy to clean.
- The push-button door release makes opening the microwave quick and effortless.
- It comes with a clock and a kitchen timer.
What Could Be Improved:
- At 700 watts, it might be slower for larger meals compared to higher wattage microwaves.
- The 0.7 cubic foot capacity is good for small spaces but might be too small for cooking large dishes or family-sized meals.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and easy-to-use appliance for everyday kitchen tasks. It offers great value and simple operation for a variety of cooking needs.
3. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 9.1/10
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) is a compact and stylish stainless steel microwave, designed to be a great addition to any small kitchen. It’s perfect for apartments, dorm rooms, or any space where counter space is limited. With its 0.9 cubic feet capacity and 900 watts of cooking power, it handles everyday tasks like reheating leftovers, popping popcorn, and defrosting food with ease. The 10.6-inch removable turntable fits most standard plates and bowls.
What We Like:
- It has 6 helpful auto menus for common foods like popcorn and potatoes.
- You can adjust the cooking power with 11 different levels for more control.
- The mute function lets you turn off the annoying beeping sounds.
- A two-step child lock keeps little ones safe from turning it on.
- The bright LED lighting makes it easy to see inside.
- One-touch start buttons make cooking quick and simple for up to 6 minutes.
- It can defrost food by weight or time, which is very convenient.
What Could Be Improved:
- The external dimensions, while fitting for small spaces, might feel a bit tight for larger items.
- Some users might prefer a slightly larger capacity if they cook more often.
Overall, this TOSHIBA microwave is a smart choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly appliance for their compact living space. Its blend of helpful features and a sleek design makes it a winner.
4. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 8.9/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact powerhouse designed for your kitchen. This 0.7 cubic foot microwave offers 700 watts of cooking power with 10 adjustable power levels. It features six handy cooking presets for common items like popcorn and pizza, plus one-touch express cooking for quick meals. The modern black design fits seamlessly into any kitchen decor, and its user-friendly digital controls make operation a breeze. Safety and convenience are key with features like a child safety lock, an eco mode to save energy, and a mute button for quiet operation.
What We Like:
- It cooks food quickly and efficiently with 700 watts.
- The six one-touch cooking presets are very convenient for popular foods.
- You can easily adjust the power level with 10 different settings.
- The memory function lets you save your favorite cooking programs.
- The child safety lock and mute button add extra peace of mind and quiet operation.
- The compact size and sleek black finish look great on any countertop.
- Cleaning is easy, and the glass turntable is dishwasher safe.
- It’s cETL approved and comes with a 1-year Chefman assurance, showing trusted quality.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic foot capacity might be a bit small for larger dishes or families.
- While powerful for its size, it may not be as fast as higher wattage microwaves.
This Chefman microwave offers a great balance of features and convenience for everyday cooking needs. It’s a solid choice for anyone seeking a reliable and user-friendly countertop appliance.
5. SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 12.4″ Carousel Turntable
Rating: 8.5/10
The SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven in sleek black is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. Its medium size, 1.1 cubic feet, is just right for most households. With a powerful 1000 watts, it heats food quickly and evenly. It also boasts a stylish design and a bright white LED display that makes it easy to see what you’re doing. The inside is a clean gray and features bright LED lighting, so you can see your food clearly.
What We Like:
- The 1000-watt power gets food hot fast.
- The 12.4-inch turntable helps food cook evenly.
- You get 10 different power levels for better control.
- The “+30 seconds” button is super handy for quick heating.
- “Express Cook” lets you start cooking with one touch for up to 6 minutes.
- Auto Cook makes preparing popular meals simple.
- Weight and Time Defrost helps thaw food correctly.
- The modern gray interior and white LED display look great.
- The removable turntable is easy to clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “Black/White” color option might be confusing; it’s primarily black.
- While it has many features, some users might prefer more advanced settings.
This SHARP microwave is a great choice for everyday cooking and reheating. It offers a good balance of power, convenience, and style.
The Smart Shopper’s Guide to Top-Rated Microwave Ovens
Choosing the right microwave oven can make your kitchen life easier. Whether you’re reheating leftovers, popping popcorn, or defrosting dinner, a good microwave is a kitchen essential. This guide will help you find a top-rated model that fits your needs and budget.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a microwave, keep these important features in mind:
- Wattage: This tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage (around 1000 watts or more) means faster cooking. Lower wattage (around 700-800 watts) is fine for basic tasks.
- Capacity (Cubic Feet): This is the inside space of the microwave. Smaller microwaves (under 1 cubic foot) are good for small kitchens or single people. Larger ones (1.5 cubic feet or more) are great for families or cooking bigger meals.
- Turntable: Most microwaves have a glass turntable that spins food for even heating. Look for one that’s easy to clean.
- Pre-set Cooking Options: Many microwaves have buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or potatoes. These make cooking simple.
- Sensor Cooking: This feature automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on the food’s moisture. It helps prevent over or undercooking.
- Convection Cooking: Some microwaves can also bake and roast like a regular oven. This is a great feature if you have limited oven space.
- Child Lock: This safety feature prevents little hands from accidentally turning on the microwave.
- Interior Light: A good light helps you see your food while it’s cooking.
2. Important Materials
The materials used in a microwave affect its durability and how easy it is to clean.
- Interior: Stainless steel interiors are durable and easy to clean. Ceramic or enamel coatings are also common and resist scratches. Avoid plastic interiors if possible, as they can scratch and stain more easily.
- Exterior: Stainless steel exteriors look sleek and are easy to wipe down. Painted metal exteriors are also common and come in various colors.
3. 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.
- Even Cooking: The best microwaves heat food evenly. This is often related to the wattage and the design of the microwave’s interior.
- Ease of Use: A user-friendly control panel makes a big difference. If the buttons are clearly labeled and the settings are easy to understand, you’ll enjoy using it more.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves are louder than others. If you’re sensitive to noise, look for reviews that mention how quiet the unit is.
- Cleaning: Microwaves that are easy to wipe down inside and out are a joy to own. Removable turntables and smooth interior surfaces help with this.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your microwave most often.
- Quick Reheating: If you just need to warm up soup or last night’s dinner, a basic model with a few pre-set buttons will work well.
- Busy Families: For larger households, a spacious microwave with sensor cooking and convection options can be a lifesaver. It can help with quick weeknight meals and even baking small items.
- Small Kitchens: Countertop microwaves are popular, but over-the-range models save valuable counter space. Built-in microwaves offer a streamlined look.
- Snack Lovers: If popcorn is your go-to snack, a microwave with a dedicated popcorn button and good ventilation is important.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the most important feature in a microwave?
A: Wattage is very important because it determines how fast your food cooks. Higher wattage means quicker cooking times.
Q: How do I know what size microwave I need?
A: The size you need depends on how much food you usually cook and how much space you have. Check the cubic feet measurement to see the interior capacity.
Q: Is stainless steel better for the inside of a microwave?
A: Yes, stainless steel interiors are generally more durable and easier to clean than plastic. They resist scratches and stains better.
Q: What does “sensor cooking” do?
A: Sensor cooking uses steam to figure out how cooked your food is. It then adjusts the cooking time and power to prevent overcooking.
Q: Can a microwave bake and roast?
A: Some microwaves have a “convection” feature. This allows them to bake, roast, and broil food, similar to a regular oven.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my microwave?
A: Most microwaves have a removable glass turntable that can be washed. You can wipe the interior with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tough spots, heat a bowl of water with lemon slices for a few minutes to loosen grime.
Q: Are over-the-range microwaves a good option?
A: Over-the-range microwaves save counter space and often come with a built-in vent for your stovetop. They are a great choice for smaller kitchens.
Q: What is the average lifespan of a microwave oven?
A: Most microwaves last between 7 to 10 years with proper care and use.
Q: Should I buy a microwave with a lot of pre-set buttons?
A: Pre-set buttons can be convenient for common foods like popcorn or potatoes. However, if you prefer manual control, you might not need many of them.
Q: How can I ensure my microwave cooks evenly?
A: Make sure the turntable is clean and spinning freely. Avoid overcrowding the microwave. Higher wattage also helps with more even cooking.
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!