10 Best 12 Inch Deep Microwaves 2025 in the United States

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven offers a notable balance of size, power, and features for its category. With a 1.2 cubic feet capacity and a 12.4-inch removable turntable, it can accommodate larger dishes, including a 12-inch pizza, making it suitable for a small family or individual use. The 1100-watt power allows for efficient cooking and heating, and the smart humidity sensor with 12 auto menus ensures optimal results for various dishes such as pizza, potatoes, and vegetables.

The easy-to-clean interior and stainless steel material provide durability and low maintenance, while the ECO mode and mute function add to its practicality and user-friendliness. A large digital display and straightforward control panel simplify operation. However, at 18.4 inches deep, this microwave may not fit perfectly on narrower countertops, especially if space is limited. Its weight of 34.6 pounds also makes it less portable.

The control panel's protective film during shipment is a considerate touch but requires removal before first use. A minor downside is the single-year warranty, which might be short for some users. Despite these minor drawbacks, its strong performance and versatile features make it a reliable choice.

The Toshiba ML2-EM12EA(BS) is a countertop microwave that fits well in kitchens needing a compact yet spacious option, with an internal capacity of 1.2 cubic feet and a 12.4-inch turntable. Its external depth of 17.1 inches keeps it within the 12-inch-deep category's practical range for most countertop spaces. Offering 1100 watts of power, it cooks meals fairly quickly and evenly. One of its standout features is the Smart Cook Sensor, which helps retain moisture and improve the texture of your food without guesswork. It also includes 12 auto menus for common dishes, making cooking straightforward.

The control panel is simple, using a number pad and start button with easy 30-second increments, which suits users who prefer hassle-free operation. The microwave comes with handy extras like an ECO mode for energy saving, mute function, child safety lock, and memory presets for frequently used settings. Its black stainless steel finish with a diamond-cut design adds a modern look to the kitchen.

This model uses a traditional turntable rather than a flatbed, which might limit placement of oddly shaped containers. Weighing about 33.5 pounds, it’s a bit heavy for frequent moving. The interior material is metal, typical for durability and easy cleaning. This microwave is suitable for families or individuals wanting a reliable, stylish appliance with smart cooking features, especially if they like preset menus and sensor cooking, while those preferring a flatbed design or lighter unit might consider other options.

The Sharp R-21LCFS Medium-Duty Commercial Microwave Oven is a strong contender in the 12-inch-deep microwave category. With a power output of 1000 watts, it provides reliable and efficient heating suitable for commercial settings. The spacious interior, with a 1.0 cubic foot capacity, can handle larger dishes, making it versatile for various food types and quantities.

The stainless steel construction of both the exterior and interior ensures durability and easy maintenance, which is crucial in high-traffic environments like commercial kitchens. This model features a straightforward dial timer that can be set from 10 seconds to 6 minutes, offering simplicity in operation. The auto-cancel timer feature is a thoughtful touch, saving energy and extending the life of the magnetron by stopping the timer when the door is opened.

One downside is the lack of advanced cooking features like pre-programmed settings, which might limit its functionality for more complex cooking tasks. Additionally, the microwave uses a turntable rather than a flatbed, which might impact the evenness of cooking for larger items. At 37 pounds and with dimensions of 21 x 16 x 12 inches, it’s relatively lightweight and compact for a commercial microwave. The ventilation is adequate for countertop installation but might require additional space for proper airflow. The Sharp R-21LCFS is an excellent choice for commercial users who need a durable, easy-to-use microwave with a decent capacity and straightforward controls.