10 Best Energy Efficient Microwave 2026 in the United States

The Toshiba ML-EM45PIT(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven is a solid choice for those seeking an energy-efficient kitchen appliance. With 1250 watts of power, it cooks food quickly and evenly, thanks to its Inverter Technology, which ensures consistent heating and defrosting. The microwave's 1.6 cubic feet capacity and 13.6-inch removable turntable make it suitable for most household cooking needs, accommodating larger dishes with ease.

Measuring 21.8 x 19.2 x 13 inches externally, it fits comfortably on most countertops without taking up too much space. One of its standout features is the 6 Smart Sensor Auto Menus, which simplify the cooking process by automatically adjusting settings for popular foods like pizza, potatoes, and vegetables, ensuring optimal results. Additionally, the Quick Start button allows for one-touch cooking, while the sound on/off function provides a quieter kitchen environment when needed.

The two-step child lock is a crucial safety feature, especially for families with young children. This Toshiba microwave combines power, convenience, and safety features, making it a strong contender for any residential kitchen.

The Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) is a large countertop microwave offering a roomy 2.2 cubic feet capacity, which easily fits bigger dishes like a 16-inch pizza or whole chicken—great for families or meal prepping. It runs at 1200 watts, providing strong cooking power for most kitchen needs. One of its standout features is the built-in humidity sensor with 6 automatic preset menus that help cook food evenly while keeping moisture locked in, which improves taste and texture without guesswork. The sensor-based cooking also supports an auto-defrost function tailored for meat, poultry, and fish, making thawing safer and more efficient.

Additionally, the microwave includes an eco mode to save energy and a mute option to reduce noise, which contribute to its energy-efficient appeal. The position memory turntable is a nice touch, ensuring food heats consistently by remembering the rotation spots. This model does not use inverter technology—a feature found in some other energy-efficient microwaves that provides more precise power control and can further save energy. It is quite heavy at nearly 50 pounds and takes up a sizeable counter space (almost 20 by 24 inches), so it's best suited for kitchens with enough room.

The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern but might require regular cleaning to keep its shine. With simple controls and useful presets like bacon, beverages, and oatmeal, this microwave suits users who prefer convenience without complicated settings. If you are looking for a reliable, spacious microwave with smart sensor cooking and energy-saving options, the Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) is a strong candidate, especially if inverter technology is not a must-have.

The Sharp R-21LCFS is a straightforward, medium-duty commercial microwave with a 1000-watt power level, which is standard for quick heating but not the most energy-saving compared to lower-watt models. It offers a roomy 1.0 cubic foot interior, enough to fit a 13.5-inch platter or half-size food pans, making it convenient for various food sizes often used in commercial kitchens. The dial timer is simple to use, allowing cooking from 10 seconds up to 6 minutes, but it lacks the more advanced inverter technology or sensor cooking features that some energy-efficient microwaves have to save power and cook food more evenly.

The microwave does include an auto-cancel feature that stops the timer when the door opens, which helps save energy and extends the device's lifespan. Its stainless steel exterior and interior not only provide a professional look but also make cleaning easier, a plus for busy kitchens. However, it doesn’t come with pre-programmed cooking settings, which might slow down busy operations compared to microwaves that do.

Although it doesn’t have a specific energy efficiency rating provided, this model’s simple design and reliable performance make it suitable for small businesses or places that need a durable, no-frills commercial microwave rather than the latest energy-saving technology.