Top 5 Best Countertop Microwave Oven Products for Home Cooking
Looking for the best best countertop microwave oven? We’ve researched and compiled a list of top products to help you make an informed decision.
5. SHARP R-1450 Countertop Microwave
The SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven blends sleek stainless‑steel styling with practical power. Its 1.1 cu ft. interior and 1000 W output make it ideal for everything from quick reheats to family‑size meals, while the 12.4″ carousel turntable ensures even cooking on every plate. A standout feature is the Orville Redenbacher’s Certified Popcorn preset, delivering perfectly popped kernels at the touch of a button. With 10 power‑level settings and a 2‑stage cooking option, you can fine‑tune heat for delicate dishes or high‑heat searing. The “+30 seconds” shortcut jumps you straight into cooking, and the Auto Cook library covers popular menu items, so you’re never guessing times. For frozen foods, the Weight‑and‑Time Defrost quickly thaws items with precision, while the Express Cook button lets you blast up to 6 minutes of cooking with a single press—great for busy mornings.
Pros
- Versatile cooking control: 10 power levels, 2‑stage cooking, and Auto Cook presets cover a wide range of recipes.
- Convenient shortcuts: “+30 seconds,” Express Cook, and dedicated popcorn preset speed up everyday use.
- Even heating: Large 12.4″ turntable reduces cold spots for consistent results.
Cons
- No convection feature: Lacks the browning and crisping capabilities of convection microwaves.
- Fixed turntable size: The 12.4″ carousel may not accommodate very large dishes or rectangular trays.
4. TOSHIBA ML2-EC10SA Air Fryer Combo
The TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8‑in‑1 Countertop Microwave Oven blends the convenience of a classic microwave with the versatility of a convection oven, grill, and air‑fryer—all in a sleek black stainless‑steel package. With 1.0 cu ft of interior space and a 12.4‑inch position‑memory turntable, you can roast a whole chicken, bake a 12‑inch pizza, or heat a casserole without crowding the cavity. The 1000 W microwave output and 1600 W input deliver fast, even cooking, while the dedicated odor‑removal mode eliminates lingering smells after strong‑flavored dishes. A two‑step child lock keeps younger hands safe, and one‑touch controls for popcorn, mute, clock, and kitchen timer make everyday use effortless. The removable turntable and easy‑turn knobs add to the user‑friendly design, and the stainless‑steel interior is a breeze to clean.
Pros
- 8‑in‑1 functionality – microwave, air‑fry, bake, broil, combi, low‑temp, odor removal, and defrost in one appliance.
- Healthy air‑fry option – crisp foods with up to 80 % less fat compared to traditional deep‑frying.
- Compact yet spacious – small countertop footprint with a 12.4‑inch turntable that fits large dishes.
Cons
- The control panel may feel a bit busy for users who prefer ultra‑simple single‑function microwaves.
- The 1.0 cu ft capacity, while generous for a countertop unit, might still be limiting for very large roasts or multiple dishes at once.
3. TOSHIBA ML-EM45P Countertop Microwave Oven
The TOSHIBA ML‑EM45P(BS) is a 1200 W countertop microwave that blends high‑power performance with smart convenience. Its 10 power‑level sensor menu automatically adjusts cooking time and power for popular items—pizza, potatoes, vegetables and more—delivering a crisp exterior and fluffy interior without guesswork. The spacious 1.6 cu ft cavity and 13.6‑inch turntable comfortably accommodate a 13‑inch pizza, while a dedicated popcorn button makes snack‑time effortless. A standout feature is the position‑memory turntable, which returns the platter to its original spot after each use, reducing spills and improving safety. Additional conveniences include auto‑defrost, multi‑stage cooking, a child‑safety lock, clock, kitchen timer, and a sound‑on/off option that lets you mute the buzzer with a long press of “8”. The sleek black stainless‑steel finish adds a modern touch to any kitchen décor. Before the first use, simply peel off the protective film covering the keypad.
Pros
- Sensor menus provide optimal texture for a variety of foods with minimal effort.
- Position‑memory turntable enhances safety and convenience by resetting to the start position.
- High power (1200 W) & large 1.6 cu ft capacity handle family‑size meals and quick cooking tasks.
Cons
- The control panel lacks a backlit display, which can be harder to read in low‑light kitchens.
- The sound‑on/off function requires a long press, which may be unintuitive for some users.
2. TOSHIBA EM131A5C Countertop Microwave
The Toshiba EM131A5C‑SS delivers 1,000 W of microwave power in a sleek silver countertop design (20.6 × 16.0 × 11.8 in). Its spacious 1.2 cu ft cavity (13.1 × 12.4 × 8.3 in) fits family‑size dishes, while the 12.4‑inch removable glass turntable ensures even heating. Smart Sensor Technology reads food humidity and automatically adjusts time and power, so you get perfectly cooked meals without guesswork. Choose from six preset menus—pizza, veggle, sensor reheat, and more—or fine‑tune cooking with ten power‑level options and a built‑in clock/timer. Defrosting is a breeze with one‑touch weight or time settings, and the mute function lets you work in quiet environments. Eco Mode reduces energy use, and the Easy‑Clean interior makes maintenance simple.
Pros
- Smart humidity sensor eliminates over‑ or under‑cooking.
- Versatile control: 6 presets + 10 power levels + timer for precise results.
- Energy‑saving Eco Mode and mute function add convenience and quiet operation.
Cons
- The 12.4‑inch turntable may be large for very small dishes.
- No built‑in convection feature; it’s a pure microwave only.
1. TOSHIBA EM131A5C Countertop Microwave Oven
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C‑BS is a sleek, black countertop microwave that packs a powerful 1000 W of cooking output into a compact 20.6 × 16.0 × 11.8 in. footprint. Inside, a roomy 13.1 × 12.4 × 8.3 in. cavity and a 12.4‑inch glass turntable give you plenty of space for plates, bowls, and even small casseroles. What truly sets this model apart is its Smart Sensor Technology – the microwave reads the humidity of your food and automatically adjusts time and power, delivering perfectly cooked results without guesswork.
Six preset menus cover everyday favorites such as pizza, veggle, and sensor‑reheat, while 10 power‑level options, a kitchen timer, and a clock let you fine‑tune any recipe. Defrosting is a breeze with one‑touch weight or time‑based settings, and a quick‑start button gets you cooking from 1 to 6 minutes at full power in an instant. The Mute Mode silences the buzzer with a long press of “8,” perfect for open‑plan living spaces. An ECO mode reduces energy use, and the easy‑clean interior means less scrubbing after meals.
Pros
- Smart humidity sensor delivers consistently optimal cooking results.
- Versatile control: 6 presets, 10 power levels, timer, and one‑touch defrost.
- Quiet operation option (Mute Mode) and energy‑saving ECO mode.
Cons
- The 12.4‑inch turntable may be slightly large for very tight countertop spaces.
- No built‑in grilling element, so browning tasks require a separate appliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I look for when choosing the best countertop microwave oven?
- Power rating: 900‑1200 W provides fast, even heating.
- Capacity: 0.9‑1.5 cu ft fits most dishes while staying compact.
- Cooking modes: Look for sensor cooking, defrost, and a convection or grill option for versatility.
- Turntable vs. flatbed: A turntable ensures uniform heating; flatbed models offer more usable interior space.
- Ease of use: Intuitive controls, preset programs, and a clear display make daily use hassle‑free.
Are convection‑microwave combos worth the extra cost?
Yes, if you want a single appliance that can bake, roast, and crisp as well as microwave. A convection‑microwave typically adds a heating element and fan, allowing you to prepare dishes like pizzas, casseroles, and pastries with a golden finish—something a standard microwave can’t achieve. The trade‑off is a higher price (usually $200‑$300 more) and slightly larger footprint, but the added cooking flexibility often justifies the investment for busy kitchens.
How can I keep my countertop microwave clean and maintain performance?
- Wipe spills immediately with a damp cloth and mild dish soap; avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Clean the turntable (or flatbed surface) regularly to prevent food buildup that can cause uneven heating.
- Check the vent for dust or grease; a vacuum brush can clear blockages and improve airflow.
- Descale if you use steam functions by running a cup of water with a splash of vinegar for a few minutes, then wipe dry.
- **Follow
Conclusion
Choosing the right countertop microwave hinges on balancing power, size, and smart features with your everyday cooking habits. Prioritize models that deliver consistent heating, intuitive controls, and safety mechanisms while fitting comfortably on your kitchen counter. Energy efficiency and easy cleaning can extend the appliance’s lifespan and reduce daily hassle. By assessing your space constraints, typical meal prep needs, and budget, you can select a microwave that not only speeds up reheating and cooking tasks but also integrates seamlessly into your culinary routine, ultimately enhancing convenience without compromising on performance.