10 Best Countertop Microwaves 2025 in the United States

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable microwave with a good mix of features. With a capacity of 1.2 cubic feet, it accommodates larger plates and can even fit a 12-inch pizza, making it ideal for families or individuals who cook for multiple people. The microwave operates at 1100 watts, ensuring that your food heats up quickly and evenly, which is a significant advantage for busy kitchens.

One of the standout features is its pre-programmed sensor menu that optimizes heating for various foods, including pizza and veggies, which simplifies cooking. Additionally, the microwave includes a humidity sensor, helping to prevent overcooking. The control panel is user-friendly, with a large digital display, making it easy to select settings even for those who aren’t tech-savvy.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. While the microwave has a mute function, some users may find the buzzer sound to be persistent if not muted, which could be a nuisance in quieter households. The design, while attractive in stainless steel, may show fingerprints more easily, requiring regular cleaning to maintain its appearance. Furthermore, the weight of 34.6 pounds means it may not be as portable or easy to move around as lighter models.

In terms of safety features, the child lock is a welcome addition for families with young children. The easy clean interior is another practical aspect, ensuring maintenance is less of a chore. With a one-year warranty, you also get some peace of mind regarding any potential issues.

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS is well-suited for family use or for those who frequently cook larger meals. It offers practical features and a stylish design, but keep in mind its weight and maintenance needs when considering your kitchen setup.

The Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) is a well-rounded countertop microwave, boasting a large 2.2 cubic feet capacity and 1200 watts of power, making it ideal for larger families or those who cook substantial meals. Its ample size can easily fit a 16-inch pizza or a whole chicken, making it versatile for various cooking needs. The microwave features an intuitive humidity sensor that helps to evenly heat food and maintain moisture, which is beneficial for achieving optimal results.

The six pre-programmed menus add convenience for common food items like bacon, chicken pieces, and beverages, simplifying the cooking process. Another practical feature is the auto-defrost function, which offers specific settings for different types of meat, simulating natural defrosting conditions for better results. Its ECO Mode and mute option are thoughtful additions for energy saving and minimizing noise. The position memory turntable ensures the turntable returns to its starting position after use, which is handy for consistent placement of dishes. Additionally, the child safety lock enhances kitchen safety for families with young children.

However, the microwave’s larger size might be cumbersome for kitchens with limited counter space. While the stainless steel design is sleek, it may show fingerprints and require regular cleaning to maintain its appearance. Users looking for advanced features like inverter technology might be disappointed, as this model does not include it. Yet, for most household needs, this microwave offers a great balance of power, capacity, and useful features.

The BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable countertop microwave. With a capacity of 1.1 cubic feet and a powerful 1000 watts, it offers ample space and cooking power for reheating meals or cooking snacks. The microwave comes with a variety of pre-programmed settings for common foods like popcorn and pizza, which makes cooking straightforward for beginners. The large LED display and easy-to-read control panel simplify operation, and the push-button door release adds convenience.

One of its standout features is the child safety lock, making it a great option for families with young children. The removable 12.4” glass turntable ensures even cooking, which is a plus for those who want well-heated food.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the microwave performs well for basic tasks, it lacks advanced features like inverter technology, which can provide more precise control over cooking power. Some users might miss additional cooking modes or smart technology options common in more expensive models. Additionally, at 30.6 pounds, it’s not the lightest unit, so moving it around may require some effort. In terms of size, it fits comfortably on most countertops, but it’s important to ensure you have enough space for its dimensions of 20.2” x 15.6” x 12.1”. The BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 is well-suited for residential use, especially for those who need a reliable microwave for everyday cooking without the need for high-end features.