Top 5 Rated Microwave Ovens of 2026

If you’re hunting for a countertop hero that can defrost, reheat, and even bake with confidence, you’ve landed in the right spot. We’ve sifted through countless reviews, expert tests, and user feedback to spotlight the five microwaves that consistently earn top marks for performance, durability, and smart features. Whether you need a compact model for a studio apartment or a powerhouse for a bustling family kitchen, these standout picks deliver speed, precision, and a dash of culinary inspiration

5. Toshiba ML-EM62P Countertop Microwave

The Toshiba ML‑EM62P(SS) is a sleek stainless‑steel countertop microwave that packs a powerful 1200 W motor into a roomy 2.2 cu ft. cavity—big enough for a 16‑inch pizza or a whole chicken. Its standout Intuitive Humidity Sensor reads moisture levels and automatically selects one of six preset cooking menus, sealing in steam for evenly cooked meals. Whether you’re reheating a bacon‑laden breakfast, thawing frozen rolls, warming a beverage, or cooking oatmeal, the sensor‑driven programs take the guesswork out of microwave cooking.

The Auto‑Defrost function offers dedicated cycles for meat, poultry, and fish, mimicking a natural thaw and preventing partially cooked edges. Convenience features include a one‑pound auto‑defrost button, energy‑saving ECO mode, mute option, 16.5‑inch position‑memory turntable, child‑safety lock, interior light, clock, and kitchen‑time display. Multi‑stage cooking and memory recall let you pause and resume dishes with ease, making this model a true kitchen workhorse for busy families.

Pros

• Large capacity & high power – fits big dishes and cooks quickly.
• Smart humidity sensor + 6 auto menus – delivers consistent, moisture‑locked results with minimal input.
• Energy‑saving ECO mode & mute option – reduces power use and noise for a quieter kitchen.

Cons

• The stainless‑steel exterior may show fingerprints and smudges, requiring frequent cleaning.
• No built‑in grill or convection function, so it’s limited to traditional microwave cooking.

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4. Farberware 1.2 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven

The Farberware 1.2 cu ft. Countertop Microwave delivers restaurant‑level speed in a compact, stainless‑steel package. With 1000 W of power you can zap leftovers, melt butter, or cook a frozen dinner in seconds. The smart sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power, while ten power‑level settings let you fine‑tune multi‑stage recipes. Six one‑touch programs—Popcorn, Potato, Pizza, and more—take the guesswork out of everyday meals, and the defrost function works by weight or time for precise thawing.

Its 1.2 cu ft. interior fits a 12‑inch pizza or a large casserole, making it perfect for kitchens, dorm rooms, or office break‑rooms where space is at a premium. The interior and exterior are coated with an easy‑clean finish, and a bright LED display with a kitchen timer and clock keeps you on schedule. A child‑safety lock adds peace of mind, while the illuminated interior lets you monitor cooking without opening the door.

Pros

• High‑power 1000 W output cooks food quickly and evenly.
• Smart sensor & one‑touch presets simplify cooking for beginners and busy families.
• Compact 1.2 cu ft. size fits small spaces without sacrificing capacity.

Cons

• The stainless‑steel exterior may show fingerprints, requiring occasional wiping.
• No grill or convection feature, so it’s limited to standard microwave cooking.

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3. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven combines sleek stainless‑steel styling with smart, kitchen‑friendly functionality. Its 0.7 cu.ft interior is perfect for everyday meals, while the 700 W output (with 10 power levels) delivers fast, even cooking. A large LED digital display makes setting the clock, timer, or 30‑second express cook a breeze, and the intuitive push‑button door release lets you pop the door open without fumbling. Pre‑programmed one‑touch buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and a dinner plate take the guesswork out of cooking, and the removable 10‑inch glass turntable ensures consistent heating every time. Safety is built in with a child‑lock feature and an interior light for easy monitoring. The unit runs on standard 110 V power and is UL‑approved, backed by a one‑year limited warranty.

Pros

• One‑touch cooking presets simplify preparation of popular foods, saving time and reducing the risk of over‑cooking.
• 10 power settings + 30‑second express give precise control for everything from delicate reheating to rapid defrosting.
• Child safety lock & push‑button door enhance safety and convenience, especially in busy family kitchens.

Cons

• The 0.7 cu.ft capacity may feel cramped for larger dishes or multi‑plate meals.
• No convection feature, so it’s limited to standard microwave cooking functions only.

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2. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Microwave Oven

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C‑SS countertop microwave blends sleek silver styling with smart cooking technology. With a robust 1000 W microwave output and 1600 W input, it delivers fast, even heating for everyday meals. Its spacious 1.2 cu ft interior (13.1 × 12.4 × 8.3 in) accommodates plates, bowls, and even small casserole dishes, while the 12.4‑inch removable glass turntable ensures consistent rotation and easy cleaning. Smart Sensor Technology reads food humidity and automatically fine‑tunes time and power, so you get perfectly cooked results without guesswork. Six preset menus—pizza, veggle, sensor reheat, and more—plus 10 power‑level options give you full control, whether you’re defrosting a frozen dinner by weight, boiling water, or reheating leftovers. The intuitive one‑touch start lets you launch 1–6 minutes of full‑power cooking in an instant, and the mute function, ECO mode, and built‑in clock keep the kitchen quiet and energy‑efficient.

Pros

• Smart Sensor & Auto‑Adjust: Eliminates over‑ or under‑cooking by adapting to food moisture.
• Versatile Controls: 6 presets, 10 power levels, defrost by weight/time, and a kitchen timer cover every cooking need.
• Easy‑Clean Interior: Removable turntable and smooth cavity make cleanup a breeze.

Cons

• Counter Space: At 20.6 × 16.0 × 11.8 in, it requires a moderate countertop footprint.
• No Convection Feature: Lacks the browning capability of convection microwaves for certain recipes.

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1. TOSHIBA EM131A5C Countertop Microwave

The Toshiba EM131A5C‑BS delivers restaurant‑quality results on your countertop. With a robust 1000 W microwave output (1600 W input) it heats food quickly, while the 12.4‑inch glass turntable guarantees even cooking. Its Smart Sensor Technology reads food humidity and automatically tweaks time and power, so you never have to guess whether a dish will be over‑ or under‑cooked. Choose from six preset menus—pizza, veggle, sensor reheat, and more—or fine‑tune any recipe with ten power‑level options, a built‑in clock, and kitchen timer. Defrosting is a breeze: simply select weight or time, and the microwave does the rest. One‑touch start lets you fire up a 1‑ to 6‑minute cycle at full power instantly, while a long press of the “8” button mutes the buzzer for a quieter kitchen. The sleek black finish, ECO mode for energy savings, and Easy‑Clean interior make maintenance simple, and the compact external dimensions (20.6 × 16.0 × 11.8 in) fit comfortably on most counters.

Pros

• Smart Sensor automatically optimizes cooking for perfect results every time.
• High 1000 W power + 10 power levels give fast, flexible cooking for everything from reheating to boiling.
• Convenient features: 6 preset menus, one‑touch start, mute mode, and Easy‑Clean interior streamline daily use.

Cons

• The 20.6‑inch width may be large for very small kitchen spaces.
• Lacks a grill or convection function, so it’s limited to standard microwave cooking.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which microwave is currently the highest‑rated overall on consumer review sites?

The Panasonic NN‑SN966S consistently tops ratings on platforms like Amazon, Best Buy, and Consumer Reports. Reviewers praise its Inverter Technology for even cooking, a spacious 1.9 cu ft capacity, sensor cooking presets, and a quiet, durable turntable. It also earns high marks for energy efficiency and a sleek stainless‑steel finish.

What features should I look for in a top‑rated microwave for reheating leftovers?

• Inverter Power – Provides steady, low‑heat cooking to avoid over‑cooking or drying out food.
• Sensor Reheat – Detects moisture levels and automatically adjusts time and power.
• Multiple Power Levels – Allows gentle warming (e.g., 30 % power) for delicate items.
• Turntable or Flat‑bed Design – Ensures even heating across the plate.
• Easy‑to‑Clean Interior – Removable turntable and a non‑stick coating simplify maintenance.

Are there any highly rated microwaves that are also budget‑friendly?

Yes. The Toshiba EM131A5C‑BI is a popular choice under $150. It offers a 1.2 cu ft interior, 10 power levels, a pre‑programmed sensor menu, and a quiet, reliable turntable. Users appreciate its straightforward controls, solid construction, and the fact that it delivers consistent results without the premium price tag.

Conclusion

In short, the ideal microwave balances power, versatility, and user‑friendly design, delivering consistent results whether you’re reheating leftovers or experimenting with quick recipes. Prioritizing features such as intuitive controls, ample interior space, and reliable durability ensures you get the most value from your investment. Energy efficiency and smart technology further enhance convenience, while thoughtful safety mechanisms keep the kitchen environment secure. By focusing on these core attributes, you can confidently choose a model that fits your cooking habits and lifestyle, turning everyday meal prep into a smoother, more enjoyable experience.