Top 5 Best Countertop Microwaves 2026
The 5 Must‑Have Countertop Microwaves That Everyone’s Raving About
If you’ve ever stared at a bland kitchen countertop and wondered which microwave could actually upgrade your cooking game, you’re not alone. From quick reheats to gourmet‑level defrosting, today’s top‑rated countertop microwaves blend sleek design, smart tech, and jaw‑dropping performance. We’ve sifted through countless reviews, tested the hottest features, and narrowed the field to five standout models that consistently earn five‑star accolades. Whether you
5. TOSHIBA ML2-EC10SA Air Fryer Combo Oven
The TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8‑in‑1 Countertop Microwave Oven blends the power of a 1000‑W microwave with the crisp‑finish of an air fryer, all wrapped in a sleek black stainless‑steel shell. Its 8‑in‑1 multifunction—microwave, air‑fry, bake (convection), broil, combi, low‑temp, odor‑removal, and defrost—lets you roast a whole chicken, bake a 12‑inch pizza, or pop popcorn with a single touch. A 12.4‑inch position‑memory turntable remembers the last setting, while the two‑step child lock safeguards younger hands. Despite its compact 20.6 × 18.0 × 11.8‑in footprint, the interior (14.0 × 13.2 × 9.5 in) offers a generous 1.0 cu ft capacity. Easy‑turn knobs, a mute function, and a built‑in kitchen timer streamline everyday cooking, and the stainless‑steel interior stays spotless after each use.
Pros
- Versatile 8‑in‑1 functionality replaces several appliances, saving countertop space.
- Healthy air‑fry technology delivers crispy results with up to 80 % less fat.
- Two‑step child lock & position‑memory turntable provide safety and convenience for busy families.
Cons
- The 1600‑W input may require a dedicated circuit in older homes.
- The control panel, while intuitive, lacks a backlit display for low‑light operation.
4. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 700W
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven packs a powerful 700‑watt engine into a sleek, space‑saving 0.7 cu ft. cabinet. Its digital control panel lets you set precise cooking times, add 30‑second increments, or simply tap one of six preset buttons for popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Ten adjustable power levels give you fine‑tuned control—from a gentle melt for butter to full‑blast heating for quick meals. A handy Memory Function stores your most‑used settings for one‑touch cooking, while Eco Mode dims the display and saves energy when the unit isn’t in use. Safety features include a child‑proof lock on the handle and a lock‑out mode for the control panel, and the Mute button silences beeps for quiet operation. The modern black finish blends with any décor, and cleanup is simple: the exterior wipes clean and the glass turntable is top‑rack dishwasher safe. Certified cETL and backed by a 1‑year Chefman warranty, this microwave delivers reliable performance in a compact footprint.
Pros
- Versatile cooking: 6 presets + 10 power levels + memory function for quick, customized meals.
- Safety & convenience: Child lock, lock‑out mode, and mute button keep the kitchen safe and quiet.
- Energy‑smart design: Eco Mode reduces power draw and display brightness when idle.
Cons
- Limited capacity: 0.7 cu ft. may be too small for larger dishes or family‑size meals.
- No convection or grill functions: Pure microwave operation only, limiting browning capabilities.
3. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 brings modern convenience to any kitchen countertop. Its 0.7 cu ft stainless‑steel cavity delivers 700 W of cooking power across 10 adjustable levels, letting you fine‑tune heat for everything from delicate popcorn to hearty dinner plates. The large LED digital display makes setting the clock, timer, or the 30‑second express‑cook button a breeze, while the intuitive push‑button door release provides quick, one‑hand access. Inside, a removable 10‑inch glass turntable rotates food evenly, and the bright interior light lets you monitor progress without opening the door. Pre‑programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and a dinner plate take the guesswork out of cooking, and the child‑safety lock ensures peace of mind in busy households. Rated at 1050 W input and UL‑approved, this compact 17.3” × 13.0” × 10.2” unit fits neatly on any counter while delivering reliable performance backed by a one‑year limited warranty.
Pros
- One‑touch cooking: Dedicated preset buttons simplify common meals and snacks.
- Precise power control: Ten watt‑level settings plus a 30‑second express option give flexibility for a wide range of recipes.
- Safety & convenience: Child lock, push‑button door release, and bright interior light make everyday use safe and effortless.
Cons
- Limited capacity: At 0.7 cu ft, it may be too small for large family meals or big baking dishes.
- No convection feature: Cooking is limited to microwave heating; no browning or crisping functions are included.
2. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Microwave
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C‑SS delivers restaurant‑quality results in a compact countertop package. With a robust 1000 W microwave output and 1600 W input, it heats food quickly while the 12.4‑inch removable glass turntable ensures even cooking across the 1.2 cu ft interior. Smart Sensor Technology reads food humidity and automatically tweaks time and power, so you never have to guess whether a dish is over‑ or under‑cooked. Six preset menus—pizza, veggle, sensor reheat, and more—let you start with a single tap, while ten power‑level options and a built‑in clock/kitchen timer give you full control for everything from delicate defrosting to rapid boiling. The mute function, ECO mode, and easy‑clean interior keep the kitchen quiet, energy‑efficient, and hassle‑free.
Pros
- Smart Sensor Cooking – Adjusts time/power automatically for perfectly cooked meals.
- Versatile Controls – 10 power levels, 6‑minute one‑touch start, and 6 preset menus cover a wide range of dishes.
- Energy‑Smart & Quiet – ECO mode reduces power draw; mute function keeps noise to a minimum.
Cons
- The 12.4‑inch turntable may be slightly large for very tight countertop spaces.
- No built‑in grilling or convection function, so it’s limited to traditional microwave cooking.
1. TOSHIBA EM131A5C Countertop Microwave
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C‑BS brings powerful, precise cooking to any countertop. With a 1000 W microwave output (1600 W input) and a spacious 1.2 cu ft interior (13.1 × 12.4 × 8.3 in), it handles everything from a quick reheated slice of pizza to a full‑size casserole. The 12.4‑inch glass turntable spins evenly, while the Smart Humidity Sensor continuously reads food moisture and automatically tweaks time and power for perfectly cooked results—no more guesswork or uneven heating.
Six dedicated preset menus (pizza, veggle, sensor reheat, etc.) let you start cooking with a single tap, and the 10 power‑level settings plus a built‑in clock and kitchen timer give you full control for delicate tasks like defrosting by weight or boiling liquids. The One‑Touch Start feature launches 1‑6 minutes of full‑power cooking instantly, and the Mute Mode silences the buzzer with a long press of the “8” button—ideal for open‑plan living. An Eco Mode reduces energy use, while the Easy‑Clean interior keeps maintenance simple. The sleek black finish fits modern décor, and the compact 20.6 × 16.0 × 11.8 in footprint fits comfortably on any counter.
Pros
- Smart Sensor Technology ensures optimal cooking without manual adjustments.
- Versatile control: 6 presets, 10 power levels, defrost by weight, timer, and Eco mode.
- Quiet operation: Mute function and Eco mode keep noise and energy consumption low.
Cons
- The turntable is fixed at 12.4 in; larger dishes may not rotate evenly.
- No grill or convection function, limiting it to standard microwave tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I look for in the best‑rated countertop microwave?
- Power (Wattage): 900 W or higher provides faster, more even cooking.
- Sensor Cooking: Automatically adjusts time and power based on moisture levels.
- Turntable Size: A 12‑inch turntable fits most plates and bowls.
- Preset Programs: Popcorn, pizza, reheat, and defrost shortcuts save time.
- Ease of Cleaning: A removable, dishwasher‑safe turntable and a stainless‑steel interior reduce hassle.
Which countertop microwave consistently receives top ratings from experts and users?
The Panasonic NN‑SN966S (or its newer NN‑SN966S model) is frequently praised for:
– 1,250 W of power and inverter technology for precise, even heating.
– A large 2.2‑cu ft interior with a 12‑inch turntable.
– Sensor cooking, a “Turbo Defrost” mode, and a sleek stainless‑steel design.
– High user satisfaction scores for reliability, quiet operation, and easy cleaning.
How do I choose the right size microwave for my kitchen counter?
- Measure Your Space: Leave at least 2 inches of clearance on each side and 4 inches above for ventilation.
- Capacity Needs:
- 0.7‑0.9 cu ft – Ideal for small meals, dorms, or limited counter space.
- 1.0‑1.2 cu ft – Good for families, larger dishes, and bulk cooking.
- Weight & Portability: If you move it often, choose a lighter model (under 30 lb).
- Aesthetic Match: Stainless steel or black finishes blend with most countertop styles.
These considerations will help you select a top‑rated countertop microwave that fits your cooking habits and
Conclusion
When choosing a countertop microwave, the most important factors boil down to power, capacity, and intuitive controls that match your cooking habits. Prioritizing models with consistent heating performance, easy‑to‑clean interiors, and thoughtful safety features ensures reliable daily use, while a balanced price‑to‑value ratio protects your budget without sacrificing quality. User feedback consistently highlights the benefit of versatile preset programs and quiet operation, reinforcing that a well‑designed microwave can streamline meal prep and reheat tasks alike. By focusing on these core attributes, you’ll confidently select a unit that delivers lasting convenience and performance in any kitchen.