10 Best 1200 Watt Microwaves 2025 in the United States

The Toshiba ML4-EM22PAIT(SS) is a 1200-watt countertop microwave that suits larger families or those needing more space in their kitchen appliance, thanks to its roomy 2.2 cubic feet capacity and a sizable 16.5-inch turntable. Its inverter technology combined with a smart sensor helps cook food evenly by adjusting power and time automatically, reducing the chance of undercooked or overcooked meals.

This microwave offers 6 automatic sensor cooking menus and 10 power levels, giving you flexibility for various cooking tasks, from defrosting to full meal preparation. Its stainless steel design looks modern and should fit well on most countertops, though it is a bit on the larger side, so make sure you have enough space. Safety features like the two-step child lock add peace of mind if you have kids around. The control panel is straightforward with one-touch buttons and a timer, making operation simple even for those not tech-savvy.

Some users might find the number of auto menus limited compared to other models with more specialized options. Also, weighing 33.5 pounds, it’s not the lightest microwave, so moving it around might require some effort. The Toshiba microwave balances power, size, and smart cooking features effectively, making it a solid choice for families wanting reliable, sensor-driven cooking without complicated controls.

The Panasonic NN-SN68KS Compact Microwave Oven stands out in the 1200-watt microwave category due to its powerful 1200W cooking capability, which ensures quick and even cooking. With a spacious 1.2 cubic feet capacity and a large 13.4-inch turntable, it can easily accommodate larger dishes and evenly cook food. The stainless steel design not only looks modern but is also easy to clean.

The microwave offers 11 power levels, making it versatile for different cooking needs, while the control panel is user-friendly with both auto and manual controls, including a convenient Quick 30Sec button for fast cooking. Additionally, the three-level popcorn button allows you to select the optimal popping time based on bag size, ensuring perfect popcorn every time. The inverter technology is a notable feature, delivering consistent power for evenly cooked meals from edge to center, and the Turbo Defrost function speeds up the thawing process, which is great for those with busy schedules.

The Genius Sensor Cooking settings automatically adjust cooking times and power levels, taking the guesswork out of meal preparation and ensuring optimal results. However, the microwave's size (15.8 x 20.7 x 12.2 inches) may be a bit bulky for smaller kitchens, and at 25.5 pounds, it’s relatively heavy for a countertop model. Some users might find the extensive feature list overwhelming if they prefer simple microwave functions. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Panasonic NN-SN68KS is a powerful, well-designed microwave that offers a range of advanced features, making it an excellent choice for those who want more than just basic reheating and defrosting capabilities.

The Panasonic NN-SN97JS is a powerful 1250-watt microwave that stands out with its Cyclonic Wave technology, ensuring even cooking and maintaining the food's flavor and nutrients. Its spacious 2.2 cubic feet capacity makes it a great choice for families, allowing for larger dishes and accommodating various food items easily. The 16.5-inch turntable aids in evenly heating food by rotating it during cooking. This microwave includes convenient features like Inverter Technology for precise cooking and Turbo Defrost, which quickens the defrosting process without cooking the edges of your food.

For users who appreciate ease of use, the NN-SN97JS comes with 20 preset cooking programs and a smart sensor that automatically adjusts time and power based on the food type, making meal preparation less of a hassle. Additionally, the food warming feature is a nice touch, as it keeps your meals warm until you're ready to serve.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. While its stylish stainless steel design is appealing, the microwave is somewhat bulky, which may be a drawback for those with limited counter space. Also, while the user interface has a nice layout, some users may find it a bit complex at first due to the many options available. Lastly, though it boasts a high wattage, which is great for cooking, it may not be suitable for all recipes, especially those requiring very low power settings.

The Panasonic NN-SN97JS is an excellent choice for families or anyone looking for a versatile and efficient microwave. Its strengths lie in its cooking technology and user-friendly features, with some minor drawbacks regarding size and complexity. It is ideal for those who prioritize performance and reliability in their kitchen appliance.