10 Best Energy Efficient Microwave 2026 in the United States

The Toshiba EM131A5C-BS microwave offers a solid 1000-watt cooking power, which is effective for everyday meal prep while being mindful of energy use. Its 1.2 cubic feet capacity and 12.4-inch turntable make it roomy enough for most dishes without taking up too much countertop space. A key energy-saving feature is the Smart Sensor Technology, which uses humidity detection to adjust cooking time and power automatically. This helps avoid wasting energy by preventing overcooking or undercooking. The microwave also includes an ECO mode that further reduces power consumption when possible.

With 10 power levels and 12 pre-programmed menus, including options for pizza and vegetables, it offers versatility and convenience for quick cooking. The easy defrost function and one-touch start buttons add to its user-friendly design. One drawback is that it does not use inverter technology, which some newer models have to provide even more precise power control and energy savings. Also, the external power consumption at 1600 watts is higher than some efficient microwaves, though the smart sensor helps balance that.

The stainless steel interior and easy-clean surfaces make maintenance straightforward. This microwave represents a reliable, energy-conscious model with helpful sensor cooking and easy controls, making it well suited for everyday home use.

The Toshiba ML-EM09PA(SS) microwave is a compact and reliable option, ideal for small kitchens like apartments or dorm rooms thanks to its 0.9 cubic feet capacity and manageable size. With 900 watts of microwave power, it provides enough strength for everyday cooking tasks like reheating, defrosting, and simple meals. It offers 6 preset menus for popular foods, which help simplify cooking without needing to guess times or power levels. However, this model does not include inverter technology, which means its power delivery is less smooth and can be less gentle on delicate foods compared to models with that feature.

The lack of sensor cooking means you’ll need to rely on preset times or manual adjustments, which might take some trial to get perfect. The microwave’s energy efficiency is decent but not exceptional, as its input power is 1400 watts, meaning it uses more electricity than the actual cooking power it delivers. This is common for basic microwaves but worth noting if you want the most energy-saving option. Safety features like the two-step child lock and mute function are helpful additions, especially in family homes.

The LED lighting and easy-to-use control panel with 11 power levels and quick start buttons make everyday operation straightforward. This microwave is best suited for those needing a small, easy-to-use countertop unit with essential features, rather than for users seeking advanced energy-saving technologies or sensor-based cooking.

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.