10 Best Energy Efficient Microwave 2025 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 SMD2470ASY is a built-in 24-inch microwave drawer oven that offers a spacious 1.2 cubic feet capacity, allowing you to easily fit larger dishes like a 4-quart casserole or a 20 oz beverage. With 950 watts of power, it strikes a moderate balance between cooking speed and energy consumption, making it suitable for everyday residential use. Its standout feature is the automatic drawer system, which opens smoothly and closes hands-free, adding convenience and saving kitchen space compared to traditional door microwaves. The concealed control panel, which angles outward when in use, helps keep the kitchen design clean and makes operation straightforward.

This model does not include inverter technology or sensor cooking capabilities, features often associated with more precise heating and better energy efficiency. While it includes auto defrost and some pre-programmed settings, those seeking the latest energy-saving features might find it less advanced. The stainless steel construction gives it a modern and durable look but also contributes to its relatively heavy weight (74 pounds), which means professional installation is likely required. Customer reviews are generally positive, with a 4.4-star rating, reflecting satisfaction with its performance and design. For a stylish, easy-to-use built-in microwave drawer with decent capacity and moderate power, this Sharp model is a solid choice, though other models may better serve users prioritizing cutting-edge energy efficiency or smart cooking sensors.