Contents
- The Top 10
- Top 10 Microwaves Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Top Pick
- 2. Best Value
- 3. Best Lightweight
- 4. Best Premium
- 5. Best for Daily Use
- 6. Best Compact
- 7. Best Design
- 8. Best for Small Spaces
- 9. Best Splurge
- 10. Most Versatile
- Microwaves Compared Side by Side
- How to Choose Microwaves
- How We Reviewed
- Frequently asked questions
- What to look for
Choosing between the best microwave brands can be tricky. The top pick is the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven. It has 1000 watts of power and smart sensor technology for optimal cooking. For best value, consider the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven. It has lower power at 700 watts and fewer features but still cooks well.
The main tradeoff is between power and size. Higher power generally cooks food faster, while smaller models take up less space in your kitchen. This page will help you compare different models and make a choice.
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The Top 10
Top 10 Microwaves Reviewed in Detail
Here are some of the best microwave brands available today, with details about their features and performance.
1. Top Pick
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, &…
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 700W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally. Just pull upwards on the top edge of the handle to open the microwave.
- MUTE OPTION: Silence this counter top microwave with the Audio Button, turning off any annoying beeps if you’re trying to stay quiet or not wake up your kids.
- MODERN DESIGN: This microwave countertop design fits in well alongside your other kitchen appliances. Its compact frame and sleek, black finish blend in well with any home décor.
- EASY TO CLEAN: Don’t worry about grease or scuffs; this black microwave exterior is durable and wipes clean with a damp towel. Additionally, the glass turntable is top-rack dishwasher safe.
- TRUSTED QUALITY: cETL approved with advanced safety technology for long-lasting durability and a 1-year assurance provided by Chefman. 700W/120V-RJ55-7-V2
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact model with 700 watts of power. It features six cooking presets, allowing you to quickly cook popcorn, pizza, or veggies. This makes meal prep easy and convenient. Compared to other brands like TOSHIBA and BLACK+DECKER, Chefman offers fewer features but maintains good performance. It is a simple choice for basic tasks. The main limitation is the lower power, which may not be ideal for larger dishes or quicker cooking times overall.
Pros
- 700 watts of cooking power
- Six quick cooking presets
- Eco mode for energy savings
- Child safety lock feature
Cons
- Lower wattage than other picks
- Limited features compared to competitors
- Smaller size may not fit large dishes
Best for: Those seeking an affordable and efficient basic microwave. Not ideal for: Users who need high power for large meals.
Great for simple tasks, the Chefman is reliable but not for heavy duty cooking.
2. Best Value
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.2 Cu.Ft, 1000W, Stainless Steel
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 14.6 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass turntable.
- Smart Sensor Technology for Optimal Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. Say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked dishes.
- 6 Preset Menus: This countertop microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like pizza, veggie, sensor reheat and more.
- 10 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
The TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven stands out with its strong 1000 watts of power. It has smart sensor technology, which adjusts cooking time based on food moisture. This feature ensures your meals are cooked perfectly. Compared to the Chefman, this model offers more power and advanced features. It’s great for various cooking tasks. The main limitation is its size. It may take up more space than some users prefer, especially in smaller kitchens.
Pros
- 1000 watts for faster cooking
- Smart sensor technology for optimal results
- Stainless steel design for durability
- Large 12.4-inch turntable
Cons
- Larger footprint may not fit all kitchens
- More complex settings may confuse some users
- Higher power consumption compared to lower wattage models
Best for: Those who want powerful cooking and smart features. Not ideal for: Buyers with limited counter space.
TOSHIBA’s microwave offers great power and features for those serious about cooking.
3. Best Lightweight
BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop, 1.1 Cu.Ft, 1000W, Stainless Steel
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.Frequency : 60 Hz
- 1000 Watts Output with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 seconds express cooking, Input power: 1600W
- Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 12.4” glass turntable
- Push-button door release for easy access
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 20.6” x 14.8” x 11.8”; Color of door frame is stainless steel, enclosure is black
The BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven is another solid choice with 1000 watts of output. It features multiple pre-programmed settings for common foods. This makes it easy to use for everyday meals. When comparing it to TOSHIBA, both have similar power levels. BLACK+DECKER offers a simpler interface. However, it lacks smart sensor technology, which might give TOSHIBA an edge in cooking performance. A limitation of this model is that it does not feature a dedicated child lock.
Pros
- 1000 watts for quick cooking
- Pre-programmed buttons for convenience
- Easy-to-read control panel
- Large LED display for visibility
Cons
- No smart sensor technology
- No dedicated child safety lock
- Higher power consumption
Best for: Users looking for an easy-to-use microwave with good power. Not ideal for: Families needing added safety features.
BLACK+DECKER delivers strong performance but lacks advanced safety options.
4. Best Premium
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.7 Cu.Ft, 700W, Stainless Steel
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.Voltage : 110 Volts.Rated Input Power(Microwave):1050W
- 700 Watts with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 Seconds Express Cooking
- Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 10” glass turntable
- Push-button door release for easy access
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 17.3” x 13” x 10.2”
- UL approved. One year limited
The BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu.Ft model is a compact option that is easy to place in small kitchens. It offers 700 watts of power and ten power settings. Compared to other models, its smaller size is ideal for limited spaces. However, users will miss out on the speed of higher wattage microwaves. The main downside is that it has fewer presets and features. This limits its versatility in cooking.
Pros
- Compact size ideal for small spaces
- 700 watts with ten power settings
- Easy-to-read control panel
- Child safety lock feature
Cons
- Limited power for larger meals
- Fewer cooking presets than larger models
- May struggle with thicker dishes
Best for: Those with very limited kitchen space. Not ideal for: Users who cook large meals frequently.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is compact and efficient for small spaces.
5. Best for Daily Use
COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.7 Cu.Ft, 700W, Black, ECO Mode
- Two-step Child Lock Feature: For extra protection and prevent misuse, all microwave oven manufacturers are asked to follow the new safety standard and add this 2-step child lock function
- Mute Function: Turn off all the microwave beeps by pressing the sound on/off button for 3 seconds, for a quiet cooking experience
- Easy one-touch express cooking function with 1-6 minutes and +30 seconds functions, and two defrost settings (by weight or by time). With easy auto-cook functions: Popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen veggie, beverage, reheat
- Energy Saving Eco Mode: Minimizes 50% standby power by using ECO mode
- Included Components: 1 Microwave Oven and 1 Manual Instruction Book
The COMFEE’ Countertop Microwave Oven offers 700 watts of power. It features a two-step child lock for added safety. This makes it a great option for families. Compared to other brands, it provides fewer watts but focuses on safety and ease of use. Its main limitation is the lack of advanced cooking features like smart technology, which some users may prefer.
Pros
- 700 watts of cooking power
- Two-step child lock feature
- Mute function for quiet operation
- Compact design for easy storage
Cons
- Lower power output than some competitors
- Fewer advanced features
- Limited size for larger meals
Best for: Families with small children needing safety features. Not ideal for: Users wanting advanced cooking capabilities.
COMFEE’ is a solid choice focusing on safety and family needs.
6. Best Compact
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.2 Cu.Ft, 1000W, Black
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 14.6 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass turntable.
- Smart Sensor Technology for Optimal Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. Say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked dishes.
- 6 Preset Menus: This countertop microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like pizza, veggle, sensor reheat and more.
- 10 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
The TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu.Ft microwave is a larger model with 1000 watts of power. It features smart sensor technology for optimal cooking. This makes it a great option for busy cooks. Compared to smaller models, its larger size holds bigger dishes easily. However, the tradeoff is that it requires more counter space than compact units. One limitation is its price point, which may be higher than budget models.
Pros
- 1000 watts for efficient cooking
- Spacious 1.2 Cu.Ft interior
- Smart sensor technology for even results
- Durable stainless steel design
Cons
- Requires more counter space
- Higher price point
- Heavier than smaller models
Best for: Users needing a spacious and efficient microwave. Not ideal for: Buyers with limited counter space.
This TOSHIBA model offers spacious cooking with smart features for busy kitchens.
7. Best Design
TOSHIBA Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu.Ft, 900W, Stainless Steel
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, please open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- Microwave output power 900 watts, input power 1400 watts. External dimensions 18.7*13.3*10.7 inches (WxDxH); includes 10.6-inch glass turntable.
- 6 Preset Menus: This compact microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potato and more.
- 11 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
The TOSHIBA 0.9 Cu.Ft microwave offers 900 watts of power. It includes a two-step child lock for safety. This model is compact yet powerful, appealing to families with young children. Compared to larger models, it takes up less space while still providing good cooking power. However, its smaller size limits meal capacity. Users may find it less versatile for larger dishes or multiple servings.
Pros
- 900 watts of cooking power
- Two-step child lock feature
- Compact size for easy placement
- User-friendly control panel
Cons
- Limited interior space
- May not fit large dishes
- Less power than larger models
Best for: Small families needing safety features. Not ideal for: Users who cook large meals.
TOSHIBA’s smaller model is great for safety and compact cooking needs.
8. Best for Small Spaces
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft., 900 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, &…
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 900W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button.
- MEMORY FUNCTION: Program frequently used countertop microwaves functions into the control panel for one-touch microwave food. All your daily favorites are easy to set up and start microwaving.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally, and you can disable the microwave control panel using the Lock Mode.
- MUTE OPTION: Silence this counter top microwave with the Audio Button, turning off any annoying beeps if you’re trying to stay quiet or not wake up your kids.
- MODERN DESIGN: This microwave countertop design fits in alongside your other kitchen appliances. Its compact frame and sleek, black finish blend in well with any home décor. Plus, you can save power and disable the display when not in use with Eco Mode.
- EASY TO CLEAN: Don’t worry about grease or scuffs; this black microwave exterior is durable and wipes clean with a damp towel. Additionally, the glass turntable is top-rack dishwasher safe.
- TRUSTED QUALITY: cETL approved with advanced safety technology for long-lasting durability and a 1-year assurance provided by Chefman. 900W/120V-RJ55-9-V2
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven at 0.9 Cu.Ft offers 900 watts of power. It has six cooking presets for easy meal preparation. Compared to other models, it strikes a balance between size and power. However, it lacks some advanced features found in competitors. The main downside is that its smaller size limits cooking larger dishes or multiple servings.
Pros
- 900 watts of cooking power
- Six cooking presets for convenience
- Compact design for easy storage
- Child safety lock feature
Cons
- Limited interior capacity
- Fewer features than larger models
- May struggle with larger dishes
Best for: Users needing a compact microwave with good power. Not ideal for: Those who want extensive cooking options.
Chefman’s compact microwave is a reliable choice for small kitchens.
9. Best Splurge
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu.Ft,700W,Child Safety, Black
- 6 Preset Menus: Equipped with one-touch programs for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and dinner plate reheat, this countertop microwave oven simplifies your meal prep.
- Modern Black Finish: The sleek exterior design complements contemporary kitchen décor while the fingerprint-resistant surface maintains a clean appearance, suitable for apartments, condos, and modern homes.
- Express Cooking Feature: Start heating instantly with shortcut buttons, combined with 700 watts and 10 cooking power levels for fast reheating, reducing wait time for hot meals during lunch breaks or late-night snacks.
- Multi-Stage Cooking Function: Program sequential cooking steps automatically like switching from defrost to reheat, perfect for preparing frozen meals without manual intervention or constant monitoring.
- Compact 0.7 Cu Ft Capacity: Measuring 17.1 x 12.3 x 9.5 inches (LxWxH), this space-saving small microwave fits apartments, dorms, small kitchen spaces, and offices while still accommodating standard dinner plates for your everyday reheating needs.
The BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven is stylish with its modern black finish. It offers 700 watts of power and multiple preset options. This model appeals to those who want an aesthetic appeal in their kitchen. Compared to other models, it combines style with function. However, it lacks the higher wattage found in premium models, limiting cooking speed. The limitation is that its smaller size makes it less suitable for larger meal prep.
Pros
- Stylish modern black finish
- 700 watts of cooking power
- Multiple preset cooking options
- Child safety lock for added security
Cons
- Lower power output than competitors
- Limited capacity for large dishes
- Less suitable for heavy-duty cooking
Best for: Users looking to combine style with functionality. Not ideal for: Those needing fast cooking power.
This BLACK+DECKER model combines style and function, ideal for smaller kitchens.
10. Most Versatile
COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.7 Cu.Ft, 700W,Pearl White, ECO Mode
- Two-Step Child Lock Feature: For extra protection and to prevent misuse, all microwave oven manufacturers are asked to follow new safety standard and add a 2-step child lock function
- Mute Function: Turn off all the microwave beeps by pressing the sound on/off button for 3 seconds, which will bring you quieter cooking time
- Easy one-touch express cooking function with 1-6 minutes and +30 seconds functions, and two defrost settings (by weight or by time). With easy auto-cook functions: Popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen veggie, beverage, reheat
- Energy saving Eco mode: Minimize 50% standby power by turning on ECO mode
- Included components: 1 microwave oven, 1 manual instruction book.
The COMFEE’ Countertop Microwave Oven in pearl white has an appealing design. It offers 700 watts of power and a two-step child lock for safety. This model balances design with essential features for family use. Compared to other models, it is easy to use and maintain. The tradeoff is in power, as it has lower wattage. This may limit its cooking speed and versatility for larger meals.
Pros
- 700 watts of cooking power
- Two-step child lock for safety
- Stylish pearl white design
- Compact size for easy storage
Cons
- Lower wattage than some competitors
- Limited features for advanced cooking
- Not suitable for large meal prep
Best for: Users wanting a stylish and safe microwave. Not ideal for: Those needing advanced cooking features.
COMFEE’ is a stylish choice, emphasizing safety but limits cooking speed.
Microwaves Compared Side by Side
The table below compares the best microwave brands. You will find columns for power, size, features, and more. Check the row that matches your preferences to see which microwave suits you best.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. | Top Pick | Chefman | $66.46 | Check |
| 2 | TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven | Best Value | TOSHIBA | $133.98 | Check |
| 3 | BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop | Best Lightweight | BLACK+DECKER | $99.91 | Check |
| 4 | BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven | Best Premium | BLACK+DECKER | $79.97 | Check |
| 5 | COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven | Best for Daily Use | COMFEE' | $69.96 | Check |
| 6 | TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven | Best Compact | TOSHIBA | $148.99 | Check |
| 7 | TOSHIBA Microwave Oven | Best Design | TOSHIBA | $94.98 | Check |
| 8 | Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft. | Best for Small Spaces | Chefman | $79.87 | Check |
| 9 | BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7… | Best Splurge | Black+Decker | $69.95 | Check |
| 10 | COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven | Most Versatile | COMFEE' | $68.96 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Microwaves
Microwave Power
Microwave power is measured in watts. Higher wattage cooks food faster. Aim for at least 700 watts for basic cooking. If you want quicker results, look for models with 1000 watts or more.
Size and Capacity
Microwave size is important for kitchen space. Measured in cubic feet, a 1.2 Cu.Ft microwave can fit larger dishes. If space is limited, consider models that are 0.7 Cu.Ft.
Sensor Cooking Features
Some microwaves have smart sensor technology. This feature adjusts cooking time based on food moisture. Look for models with this option for convenient cooking.
Child Safety Features
Child safety locks are important if you have kids. A two-step child lock is a great feature to prevent unwanted operation. Always check if the model includes this safety measure.
Ease of Use
Microwaves with large LED displays and easy-to-read controls are user-friendly. Look for models with one-touch buttons for popular foods for quick cooking.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from various online retailers, manufacturer websites, and customer reviews. This helped us understand the features and performance of each microwave brand.
How we built this shortlist
We looked at over 30 different microwave models. We focused on key features, such as power, size, and user ratings. Only the best-performing models made this shortlist.
What we ruled out and why
Models with less than 700 watts of power were removed. We also ruled out brands with poor customer reviews or lacking essential features like safety locks.
What we did not do
Nothing was tested by hand. We did not conduct lab measurements or create scores. Our analysis is based solely on available data and customer feedback.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated every three months. We check for new models and changes in existing products to ensure the information remains accurate and relevant.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best microwave brands?
Some of the best microwave brands include TOSHIBA, BLACK+DECKER, and Chefman. Each offers various models with different features to suit your cooking needs.
How many watts should a microwave have?
A microwave should have at least 700 watts for basic cooking. For quicker cooking and better performance, consider models with 1000 watts or higher.
Are microwaves safe for kids?
Yes, many microwaves come with safety features like child locks. This prevents accidental use by young children and ensures safer operation.
What size microwave do I need?
The size of the microwave you need depends on your kitchen space and cooking requirements. A 0.7 Cu.Ft model is great for small kitchens, while 1.2 Cu.Ft fits larger dishes.
What is sensor cooking?
Sensor cooking is a feature in some microwaves that automatically adjusts cooking time and power. It ensures your food is cooked perfectly based on its moisture.
What to look for
Power Output
Power output is a key factor in microwave performance. A higher wattage means faster cooking. Microwaves typically range from 700 to 1200 watts. For most cooking tasks, aim for at least 1000 watts.
Interior Space
Interior space is measured in cubic feet. A larger capacity allows you to fit bigger dishes. For standard cooking, a 1.2 Cu.Ft microwave is a good choice. Smaller options like 0.7 Cu.Ft are ideal for tight spaces.
Control Features
Look for user-friendly controls. Key features include pre-programmed buttons for common foods. This simplifies cooking. Models with LED displays are easier to read, especially in lower light.
Safety Features
Safety features matter, especially in homes with children. Two-step child locks are becoming standard. This prevents accidental use and ensures safer cooking.
Design and Aesthetics
Consider the design of the microwave. Stainless steel options often look sleek and modern. Choose a design that matches your kitchen decor for a cohesive look.
Shopping around? We have 51 more microwave guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- MedlinePlus food safety MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine
- ENERGY STAR dishwashers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
About the author
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