Ever find yourself staring at a wall of microwaves, feeling completely overwhelmed? You’re not alone! Choosing the perfect table top microwave can feel like a mission impossible. You want something that heats your leftovers quickly and efficiently, but also fits your kitchen space and budget. It’s a balancing act that often leaves us scratching our heads.
This is where we come in. We know the struggle is real, and we’re here to make your decision-making process a whole lot easier. Forget those confusing specs and endless reviews. We’ve done the legwork for you, breaking down what really matters when you’re picking out your next kitchen companion.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly what to look for. We’ll cover the essential features, helpful tips, and even a few common pitfalls to avoid. Get ready to say goodbye to microwave indecision and hello to perfectly heated meals, every single time. Let’s dive into the world of table top microwaves!
Our Top 5 Table Top Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Table Top Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 9.3/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact powerhouse, perfect for any kitchen. This 0.7 cu. ft. microwave packs 700 watts of cooking power and offers 10 different power levels. It’s designed for convenience with 6 handy cooking presets, including popcorn, pizza, and veggies. Plus, you can easily set cooking times with just a touch. The sleek black finish and modern design make it a stylish addition to your countertop.
What We Like:
- It cooks food quickly with its 700-watt power and 10 adjustable power levels.
- Six one-touch cooking presets make heating popular foods super easy.
- The digital controls are simple to use, and the +30 seconds button adds extra cooking time fast.
- You can save your favorite cooking settings with the memory function for quick, one-touch meals.
- A child safety lock keeps the door secure, and the mute button lets you silence annoying beeps.
- The Eco Mode helps save energy by disabling the display when not in use.
- Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the durable exterior and dishwasher-safe glass turntable.
- Chefman offers trusted quality with cETL approval and a 1-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be too small for larger families or cooking big meals.
- While it has presets, more advanced cooking functions are not included.
This Chefman microwave is a great, user-friendly option for everyday heating and cooking needs. Its compact size and helpful features make it a smart choice for dorm rooms, small apartments, or as a secondary microwave.
2. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 9.1/10
Meet the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven – your new kitchen helper! This sleek stainless steel microwave is perfect for quick meals and snacks. It’s compact at 0.7 cubic feet, making it a great fit for smaller kitchens or dorm rooms. With 700 watts of power and 10 different settings, you can easily heat up leftovers or cook your favorite frozen meals.
What We Like:
- Super easy to use with pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and more!
- The 30-second express cooking is a lifesaver when you’re in a hurry.
- The child safety lock gives parents peace of mind.
- A bright LED display and interior light make it simple to see what you’re cooking.
- The removable glass turntable cleans up easily.
- The push-button door opens smoothly.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for basic tasks, some users might find the 700-watt power a bit low for very dense foods.
- The 0.7 cubic feet capacity might feel small if you often heat up large dishes or multiple items at once.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly appliance for everyday cooking. It gets the job done efficiently and safely.
3. Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts
Rating: 9.5/10
This Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts, 0.7 Cu. Ft. is a great addition to any small kitchen. It’s perfect for apartments, dorm rooms, or even a small office. This microwave makes cooking fast and easy.
What We Like:
- It has 700 watts of power for quick cooking.
- You can choose from ten power levels and six one-touch cooking options.
- It’s the perfect size at 0.7 cubic feet, fitting easily in small spaces.
- The stainless steel interior and exterior are easy to clean.
- It has a bright LED display with a clock and kitchen timer.
- The interior LED lighting lets you see your food as it cooks.
- A child lock feature adds extra safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- While powerful, some might prefer higher wattage for faster cooking.
- The compact size may not be enough for very large meals or multiple dishes at once.
This Farberware microwave is a reliable and convenient appliance for anyone needing a compact cooking solution. It’s a practical choice for busy individuals and small households.
4. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
Rating: 9.1/10
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS is a fantastic countertop microwave that makes cooking easy. It has a big 1.2 cubic feet of space, so you can fit a 12-inch pizza inside! This microwave comes in a sleek black color and looks great in any kitchen. It’s powerful with 1000 watts, heating your food quickly and evenly. Plus, it has smart features that help you cook popular foods perfectly every time.
What We Like:
- Spacious Interior: Fits large items like a 12-inch pizza with its 1.2 cubic feet capacity and 12.4-inch turntable.
- Smart Sensor Cooking: Takes the guesswork out of heating common foods like veggies and potatoes.
- Quiet Operation: A handy mute function lets you turn off the annoying buzzer.
- Energy Saving: The ECO mode helps reduce power consumption.
- User-Friendly Controls: The large digital display and clear keypad make it simple to use.
- Stylish Design: Its black color and modern look complement any kitchen decor.
What Could Be Improved:
- Initial Setup: Remember to peel off the protective film from the keypad before your first use.
This Toshiba microwave is a reliable and smart addition to your kitchen. It offers great features for everyday cooking needs.
5. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 8.8/10
Meet the COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven, a sleek black appliance that makes cooking and reheating a breeze. This 0.7 cubic foot microwave is designed for convenience with its user-friendly features and compact size, fitting perfectly on most kitchen counters. It’s a great addition for anyone needing a reliable way to heat up meals or snacks quickly.
What We Like:
- The mute function lets you turn off the beeping sounds, making it great for quiet kitchens or late-night snacks.
- ECO Mode saves energy by reducing standby power, which is good for your wallet and the environment.
- Easy one-touch buttons and auto-cook functions for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and more take the guesswork out of cooking.
- Express cooking options let you heat food for 1-6 minutes with a single touch, plus a 30-second add button.
- Two defrost settings, by weight or time, make it easy to thaw frozen foods.
- The child safety lock keeps little hands from accidentally starting the microwave.
- A bright digital display and easy-to-read control panel make it simple to operate.
- The interior light lets you see your food as it cooks.
- The 10-inch glass turntable rotates food for even heating.
- It comes with a one-year limited warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While compact, the 0.7 cu ft capacity might be small for larger dishes or family-sized meals.
- The sound on/off feature is a nice addition, but some users might prefer a volume control.
The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB is a solid choice for simple, everyday microwave needs. Its quiet operation and energy-saving features make it a smart and convenient kitchen companion.
Your Guide to Finding the Best Table Top Microwave
Why Choose a Table Top Microwave?
Table top microwaves are super handy for kitchens of all sizes. They don’t need to be built-in, so you can put them almost anywhere with an outlet. They are great for reheating leftovers, cooking quick meals, or even making popcorn. They offer a lot of convenience without taking up too much space.
Key Features to Look For
1. Wattage and Cooking Power
Microwaves have different power levels, measured in watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most table top microwaves are between 700 and 1200 watts. For everyday use, around 900 watts is a good choice. If you cook a lot, look for something higher.
2. Capacity and Size
Microwaves come in different sizes, usually measured in cubic feet. A smaller microwave might be around 0.7 cubic feet, good for small snacks. A larger one, about 1.5 cubic feet, can fit bigger dishes. Think about what you usually cook to pick the right size.
3. Cooking Presets and Functions
Many microwaves have special buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or baked potatoes. Some also have defrost settings that help thaw food safely. Sensor cooking adjusts the cooking time and power automatically, making it easier to get perfect results.
4. Turntable or Non-Turntable
Most microwaves have a glass turntable that spins food for even heating. Some newer models have flatbeds that don’t spin. Flatbed microwaves are easier to clean and can sometimes fit larger rectangular dishes.
5. Ease of Use and Controls
You want a microwave that’s simple to operate. Look for clear buttons and an easy-to-read display. Some microwaves have touch controls, while others have knobs. Choose what feels most comfortable for you.
Important Materials
The inside of most microwaves is made of metal, often stainless steel or painted steel. Stainless steel is more durable and easier to clean. The outside is usually plastic or stainless steel. A stainless steel exterior looks nice and is tough.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often make more reliable microwaves.
- Build Quality: A sturdy feel and good construction mean it will last longer.
- Even Cooking: A good microwave heats food evenly without hot spots.
- Quiet Operation: Some microwaves are much quieter than others.
Reducing Quality
- Cheap Materials: Thin plastic or easily scratched surfaces can make a microwave feel less durable.
- Uneven Heating: If food isn’t cooked evenly, the microwave isn’t working well.
- Difficult Controls: Confusing buttons or a hard-to-read screen can be frustrating.
User Experience and Use Cases
A table top microwave is perfect for dorm rooms, small apartments, or offices. It’s great for students who need to heat up quick meals between classes. Busy parents can use it to reheat baby food or prepare snacks for their kids. Even experienced cooks can find it useful for defrosting ingredients or melting butter quickly.
Top 10 FAQs About Table Top Microwaves
Q1: How much space do I need for a table top microwave?
A1: You need enough counter space for the microwave’s dimensions, plus a little extra room for ventilation. Check the product’s specifications for recommended clearance.
Q2: Are table top microwaves energy efficient?
A2: Newer models are generally more energy efficient. Look for Energy Star certified models if this is a concern for you.
Q3: How do I clean a table top microwave?
A3: You can clean the inside with a damp cloth and mild soap. For stubborn stains, heat a bowl of water with lemon juice or vinegar inside for a few minutes, then wipe clean.
Q4: Can I put metal in a table top microwave?
A4: No, you should never put metal in a microwave. It can cause sparks and damage the appliance.
Q5: What is the average lifespan of a table top microwave?
A5: A well-maintained table top microwave can last anywhere from 7 to 15 years.
Q6: Should I buy a microwave with a grill function?
A6: A grill function can be useful if you want to brown or crisp food, but it’s not essential for basic microwave use.
Q7: What does “sensor cooking” mean?
A7: Sensor cooking uses built-in sensors to detect the humidity released by food as it heats. It then automatically adjusts the cooking time and power level for optimal results.
Q8: How do I choose the right capacity?
A8: Consider the size of the dishes you typically use and how many people you’re cooking for. For single servings, a smaller capacity is fine. For families or larger meals, opt for a bigger microwave.
Q9: Are there any safety concerns I should be aware of?
A9: Always ensure the microwave door seals properly and is not damaged. Never operate a microwave if it’s empty or if the door is open.
Q10: What is the difference between a countertop and a table top microwave?
A10: The terms are often used interchangeably. Both refer to microwaves that sit on a counter or table, as opposed to being built-in or over-the-range models.
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!