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10 Best 1200 Watt Microwaves 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

TOSHIBA ML4-EM22PAIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Sensor Cook, 6 Auto Menus, Origin Inverter, Child Lock, 2.2 Cu Ft for Large Family, 16.5 Inch Removable Turntable, 1200W, Stainless Steel

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,368
Wattage
Control Panel
Size and Design

Most important from
4740 reviews

Wattage
This microwave delivers powerful and even cooking, making full meals quickly without drying out food or leaving excess moisture inside.
Control Panel
The control panel is straightforward, though the child lock takes a short time to get accustomed to.
Size and Design
Built solidly with a quality feel, it offers a child lock for safety and a sturdy design that doesn’t feel cheap or flimsy.

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.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,368
Wattage
Control Panel
Size and Design

Most important from
4740 reviews

Wattage
This microwave delivers powerful and even cooking, making full meals quickly without drying out food or leaving excess moisture inside.
Control Panel
The control panel is straightforward, though the child lock takes a short time to get accustomed to.
Size and Design
Built solidly with a quality feel, it offers a child lock for safety and a sturdy design that doesn’t feel cheap or flimsy.
#2

TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable, Function, 1.6 Cu.ft 13.6" Removable Black Stainless Steel, 1200W

Rating
9.6
Wattage
Capacity
Preset Cooking Programs

Most important from
10266 reviews

Wattage
Users appreciate the high wattage for quick and efficient cooking.
Capacity
The 1.6 cubic feet capacity is spacious enough for larger dishes, though some users found it slightly smaller than expected.
Preset Cooking Programs
The smart sensor and pre-programmed menus add convenience, eliminating the guesswork.
Sensor Cooking
The smart sensor and pre-programmed menus add convenience, eliminating the guesswork.
Control Panel
Controls are easy to read and use, with features that might go unnoticed without reading the manual.
Size and Design
The pull handle design is practical and keeps the microwave looking cleaner by minimizing fingerprints.

The TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) is a 1200-watt countertop microwave that is well-suited for most household needs. One of its key strengths is its high wattage, which ensures quick and efficient cooking. The 1.6 cubic feet capacity and 13.6-inch turntable make it spacious enough to fit larger dishes like a 13-inch pizza, making it ideal for family use. The smart sensor and pre-programmed menus for popular foods add convenience, ensuring optimal cooking without guesswork.

Additionally, the position memory turntable returns to its initial position after use, enhancing safety and ease of access to dishes. The stylish black stainless steel design is also a plus, offering a modern touch to any kitchen decor. However, the microwave is relatively large in size (21.77 x 17.91 x 12.87 inches) and heavy (36.6 pounds), which might be a concern for smaller kitchens or those looking for a more portable option.

The control panel, while functional, might take some time to get used to, especially for users who prefer more straightforward interfaces. The sound on/off function is a thoughtful addition for those who prefer a quieter appliance. Despite its advanced features, it does not include inverter technology, which might be a drawback for users seeking consistent cooking power. The TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) is a powerful and feature-rich microwave, suitable for families and those looking for a combination of style and functionality in their kitchen appliances.

Rating
9.6
Wattage
Capacity
Preset Cooking Programs

Most important from
10266 reviews

Wattage
Users appreciate the high wattage for quick and efficient cooking.
Capacity
The 1.6 cubic feet capacity is spacious enough for larger dishes, though some users found it slightly smaller than expected.
Preset Cooking Programs
The smart sensor and pre-programmed menus add convenience, eliminating the guesswork.
Sensor Cooking
The smart sensor and pre-programmed menus add convenience, eliminating the guesswork.
Control Panel
Controls are easy to read and use, with features that might go unnoticed without reading the manual.
Size and Design
The pull handle design is practical and keeps the microwave looking cleaner by minimizing fingerprints.
#3

Magic Chef 2.2 Cubic Feet 1,200 Watts Countertop Microwave Oven with Sensor Cooking, Large Microwave for Kitchen Spaces, Stainless Steel, MC2211MS

Rating
9.3
Wattage
Control Panel
Size and Design

Most important from
816 reviews

Wattage
Delivers fast cooking with 1000 watts power and operates quietly, enhancing the overall cooking experience.
Control Panel
Easy to operate with multiple time options and no annoying beeping after cooking, making it user-friendly.
Size and Design
The microwave features a perfect size for everyday use and a sleek, attractive design that complements the kitchen.

The Magic Chef 1200-watt microwave offers a generous 2.2 cubic feet capacity, making it ideal for families or anyone who needs to heat larger dishes. Its 1,200 watts power level is strong enough to cook or reheat food quickly and evenly, aided by the rotating glass turntable which fits full-size dinner plates. The microwave has 9 preset cooking programs and 10 power levels, allowing you to customize how your food cooks, plus a handy auto-defrost option based on time or weight to simplify thawing frozen items. Sensor cooking technology adjusts cooking times for better results without guesswork.

The control panel is a touchpad with an easy-to-read digital display, including user-friendly features like a kitchen timer and a quick add-30-seconds button for convenience. Safety is well considered with a child lock to prevent accidental use. Its stainless steel finish looks modern and fits well in most kitchen spaces, though it is a bit on the larger side for countertop models, so measuring your space is recommended. At about 50 pounds, it’s sturdy but may be less easy to move frequently.

Some users might find the size and weight a drawback if they have limited countertop space or want a lighter microwave. This Magic Chef microwave combines high power, smart cooking features, and safety in a spacious design, making it well suited for those who cook often and need a reliable, versatile appliance.

Rating
9.3
Wattage
Control Panel
Size and Design

Most important from
816 reviews

Wattage
Delivers fast cooking with 1000 watts power and operates quietly, enhancing the overall cooking experience.
Control Panel
Easy to operate with multiple time options and no annoying beeping after cooking, making it user-friendly.
Size and Design
The microwave features a perfect size for everyday use and a sleek, attractive design that complements the kitchen.

Buying Guide for the Best 1200 Watt Microwaves

Choosing the right microwave can make a big difference in your kitchen experience. A 1200-watt microwave is a powerful appliance that can cook food quickly and evenly. When selecting a microwave, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs and preferences. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and find the best fit for your cooking habits and kitchen space.
WattageWattage indicates the power of the microwave. A 1200-watt microwave is considered high-powered, which means it can cook food faster and more evenly compared to lower wattage models. This is important if you frequently cook or reheat large meals or if you want to reduce cooking time. If you mostly use the microwave for simple tasks like reheating leftovers or making popcorn, a lower wattage might suffice. However, for more demanding cooking tasks, a 1200-watt microwave is a great choice.
CapacityCapacity refers to the internal size of the microwave, usually measured in cubic feet. This determines how much food you can cook at once. Microwaves typically range from 0.5 to 2.2 cubic feet. If you have a large family or often cook large dishes, a microwave with a capacity of 1.5 cubic feet or more would be ideal. For smaller households or limited counter space, a compact microwave with a capacity of around 1 cubic foot might be more suitable.
Turntable SizeThe turntable size is the diameter of the rotating plate inside the microwave. This affects the size of the dishes you can use. Larger turntables (12 inches or more) can accommodate bigger plates and casserole dishes, which is useful for cooking family-sized meals. Smaller turntables (10 inches or less) are better for compact spaces and smaller dishes. Consider the size of the dishes you typically use to determine the right turntable size for you.
Preset Cooking ProgramsPreset cooking programs are pre-configured settings for common foods like popcorn, pizza, and vegetables. These programs simplify the cooking process by automatically setting the time and power level. If you prefer convenience and often cook a variety of foods, look for a microwave with multiple preset programs. If you usually cook specific items and don't mind manually setting the time and power, fewer presets might be sufficient.
Inverter TechnologyInverter technology allows the microwave to deliver consistent power levels, which helps cook food more evenly and prevents overcooking. This is particularly useful for delicate foods like fish or for defrosting. If you value precise cooking and often prepare a variety of dishes, a microwave with inverter technology is a good choice. If you mainly use the microwave for basic tasks, this feature might not be as crucial.
Sensor CookingSensor cooking uses humidity and temperature sensors to automatically adjust cooking time and power levels. This ensures that food is cooked perfectly without needing to guess the settings. If you want a hassle-free cooking experience and often prepare different types of food, a microwave with sensor cooking is beneficial. If you are comfortable with manually setting the microwave, this feature may be less important.
Control PanelThe control panel is the interface you use to operate the microwave. It can be touchpad, dial, or button-based. Touchpad controls offer a modern look and are easy to clean, while dials and buttons can be more intuitive for some users. Consider your preference for ease of use and maintenance when choosing the control panel type. If you prefer a sleek design, a touchpad might be ideal. If you want simplicity, dials or buttons could be better.
Size and DesignThe size and design of the microwave should fit your kitchen space and aesthetic preferences. Measure the available space to ensure the microwave will fit comfortably. Consider the overall design, including color and finish, to match your kitchen decor. If you have limited counter space, a compact or over-the-range microwave might be more suitable. For a cohesive look, choose a design that complements your other appliances.

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