10 Best Countertop Microwaves 2025 in the United States

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.

The Toshiba ML-EM45PIT(BS) is a solid countertop microwave with a roomy 1.6 cubic feet capacity, making it suitable for families or anyone who cooks larger portions. Its 1250-watt power ensures food heats quickly and efficiently. One standout feature is the inverter technology, which provides more even cooking and defrosting compared to traditional microwaves, helping to avoid hot spots or uneven textures in food. The 13.6-inch removable glass turntable is a convenient size for most dishes and makes cleaning easier.

This model offers six smart sensor auto menus that adjust cooking times and power levels automatically for popular foods like pizza and vegetables, reducing guesswork. The control panel includes a quick start button for fast one-touch cooking, and the sound on/off function lets you mute beeps, which some users find helpful. The two-step child lock adds an important safety layer to prevent accidental use, making it a good choice for homes with children.

Though it is relatively heavy at nearly 29 pounds, making it less easy to move around, and the control panel has a protective film that must be removed before use, these are minor inconveniences. While the microwave offers plenty of features for everyday cooking, it lacks more advanced or customizable settings that some might want. Its black stainless steel finish looks sleek but could show fingerprints more easily than other finishes. This Toshiba microwave effectively balances a roomy interior, powerful and even heating with inverter technology, and helpful safety and convenience features, making it well suited for most residential kitchens, especially families or users seeking reliable, sensor-driven cooking without complexity.

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.