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Best Counter Top Microwave Ovens

Chef Sarah

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0

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Today

5 min read

Looking for the best counter top microwave ovens? We tested TOSHIBA, Chefman, Farberware and 2 more top brands.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor, 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior, 1000W, Silver

★★★★★★4.8

Wattage:1000W

Capacity:1.2 Cu Ft

Turntable Size:12.4"

Sensor Technology:Smart Sensor

Preset Menus:6 Presets

Dimensions:20.6x16.0x11.8"

1000W Toshiba microwave with smart humidity sensor and 1.2 cu ft capacity for fast, consistent cooking and easy cleanup.

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Best Value

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior Black Color 1000W

★★★★★★4.7

Wattage:1000W

Capacity:1.2 Cu Ft

Turntable Size:12.4"

Sensor Technology:Smart Sensor

Preset Menus:6 Presets

Dimensions:20.6x16.0x11.8"

Stylish black 1000W Toshiba microwave offers smart sensors, ECO mode, and quiet operation at an affordable price.

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Best Premium

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, & Mute Button - Black

★★★★★★4.6

Wattage:700W

Capacity:0.7 Cu Ft

Turntable Size:No Turntable

Sensor Technology:No Sensor

Preset Menus:6 Presets

Dimensions:Compact Design

Compact 700W Chefman microwave with one-touch presets, child lock, and sleek design for small spaces and modern kitchens.

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Detailed Reviews

What to Look For Counter Top Microwave Ovens

Wattage

Higher wattage means faster and more even cooking, making 1000W models ideal for quickly heating meals and defrosting foods effectively.

Capacity

Measured in cubic feet, capacity determines how much food fits inside; 1.2 cu ft suits most households for versatile cooking needs.

Turntable Size

A larger turntable, like 12.4 inches, ensures even cooking by rotating dishes smoothly, accommodating bigger plates and containers.

Sensor Technology

Smart sensors adjust cooking time and power based on moisture, preventing overcooking and delivering consistent, hassle-free results.

Preset Menus

Auto-cook programs for common foods simplify operation, saving time and reducing guesswork for everyday microwave use.

Dimensions

External size impacts countertop fit; knowing width, depth, and height ensures the microwave fits in your designated kitchen space.

by TOSHIBA

X Score

X Score is KitchnAdvisor's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor, 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior, 1000W, Silver

BEST OVERALL

This Toshiba microwave delivers reliable performance with smart sensor technology that adjusts cooking based on humidity. The 1.2 cu ft capacity fits most dishes and the 1000 watt power ensures fast results. Easy to clean interior and ECO mode add convenience. Ideal for families seeking consistent heating with minimal effort and modern features for everyday use.

Key Specifications

Wattage

✓1000W

Capacity

✓1.2 Cu Ft

Turntable Size

✓12.4"

Sensor Technology

✓Smart Sensor

Preset Menus

✓6 Presets

Dimensions

✓20.6x16.0x11.8"

Reasons to Buy

✓Powerful 1000W output
✓Smart humidity sensor
✓Easy clean interior
✓Quiet mute function

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Large footprint
✗Preset options limited

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by TOSHIBA

X Score

X Score is KitchnAdvisor's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior Black Color 1000W

BEST VALUE

The black finish Toshiba microwave offers the same strong performance as its silver counterpart with 1000 watt power and smart sensor cooking. Its 1.2 cu ft capacity handles family meals while the removable turntable simplifies cleaning. ECO mode saves energy and mute function reduces noise. A well rounded choice for those wanting advanced features at a competitive value.

Key Specifications

Wattage

✓1000W

Capacity

✓1.2 Cu Ft

Turntable Size

✓12.4"

Sensor Technology

✓Smart Sensor

Preset Menus

✓6 Presets

Dimensions

✓20.6x16.0x11.8"

Reasons to Buy

✓Sleek black design
✓Energy saving ECO mode
✓Sensor reheat accuracy
✓Simple control panel

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Heavy unit
✗Limited preset variety

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by Chefman

X Score

X Score is KitchnAdvisor's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.6 / 5.0

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, & Mute Button - Black

BEST PREMIUM

The Chefman compact microwave combines sleek styling with practical features in a small footprint. With 700 watts and 10 power levels it handles tasks from defrosting to reheating with precision. One touch presets speed up cooking while child lock and mute button add safety and convenience. Eco mode reduces power use. Perfect for dorms or small kitchens needing efficiency and style.

Key Specifications

Wattage

✓700W

Capacity

✓0.7 Cu Ft

Turntable Size

✓No Turntable

Sensor Technology

✓No Sensor

Preset Menus

✓6 Presets

Dimensions

✓Compact Design

Reasons to Buy

✓Space saving size
✓10 power levels
✓Modern digital display
✓Child safety lock

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No turntable
✗Less power than full size

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Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - Stainless

by Farberware

X Score

X Score is KitchnAdvisor's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.5 / 5.0

Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - Stainless

BEST RUNNER UP

The Farberware 1.1 cu ft microwave offers solid performance with 1000 watt power and ten cooking levels. Auto cook settings and defrost by weight make meal prep simple. Its stainless steel finish resists smudges and the interior is easy to wipe clean. Compact enough for tight spaces yet powerful enough for daily use. A dependable option for home or office use.

Key Specifications

Wattage

✓1000W

Capacity

✓1.1 Cu Ft

Turntable Size

✓No Size Listed

Sensor Technology

✓No Sensor

Preset Menus

✓6 Presets

Dimensions

✓Stainless Finish

Reasons to Buy

✓Durable stainless build
✓Defrost by weight
✓Child safety lock
✓Affordable price

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Turntable size unknown
✗No sensor cooking
✗Basic interior finish

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TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function, LED Lighting Countertop Microwave Perfect for Kitchen, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W Black Stainless Steel

by TOSHIBA

X Score

X Score is KitchnAdvisor's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function, LED Lighting Countertop Microwave Perfect for Kitchen, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W Black Stainless Steel

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

This compact microwave offers reliable performance for small kitchens or dorm rooms. With 900 watts and a 10.6 inch turntable it heats food evenly. The 6 preset menus simplify daily use. Mute function and child lock add convenience and safety. Its sleek design fits modern spaces while delivering consistent results for everyday cooking tasks.

Key Specifications

Wattage

✓900W

Capacity

✓0.9 Cu Ft

Turntable Size

✓10.6 Inch

Sensor Technology

✓Manual Control

Preset Menus

✓6 Presets

Dimensions

✓18.7x14.7x10.7

Reasons to Buy

✓Compact design
✓6 preset menus
✓Mute function
✓Easy to clean

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Basic sensor tech
✗Smaller capacity

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COMFEE' EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black

by COMFEE'

X Score

X Score is KitchnAdvisor's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

COMFEE' EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black

BEST BUDGET

An affordable and efficient choice for tight spaces or light use. The 700 watt power suits basic reheating. ECO Mode reduces standby power by 50 percent. One touch controls and mute option enhance usability. Despite limited capacity it delivers solid performance for individuals or small households needing simple, reliable operation without extra features.

Key Specifications

Wattage

✓700W

Capacity

✓0.7 Cu Ft

Turntable Size

✓Manual Control

Sensor Technology

✓6 Presets

Preset Menus

✓One-Touch Cook

Dimensions

✓Compact Design

Reasons to Buy

✓Energy saving ECO mode
✓Mute function
✓Simple interface
✓Affordable price

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Lower wattage
✗Small interior

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BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 1000W, 1.1cu.ft, Black & Stainless Steel, 1.1 Cu.ft

by BLACK+DECKER

X Score

X Score is KitchnAdvisor's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.4 / 5.0

BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 1000W, 1.1cu.ft, Black & Stainless Steel, 1.1 Cu.ft

BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS

This 1000 watt microwave combines power and precision for fast, even heating. The 1.1 cubic foot capacity fits most dishes. Pre programmed buttons simplify daily use. Large digital display and 30 second express cook save time. Removable 12.4 inch turntable ensures easy cleaning. Ideal for busy households needing dependable, no fuss performance.

Key Specifications

Wattage

✓1000W

Capacity

✓1.1 Cu Ft

Turntable Size

✓12.4 Inch

Sensor Technology

✓Manual Control

Preset Menus

✓6 Presets

Dimensions

✓Mid Size Design

Reasons to Buy

✓High wattage
✓Large turntable
✓Express cooking
✓Clear display

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No sensor cook
✗Basic exterior finish

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Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor, 6 Menus, Auto Defrost, ECO Mode, Mute Option & 16.5" Position Memory Turntable, 2.2 Cu Ft, 1200W, Stainless Steel

by Toshiba

X Score

X Score is KitchnAdvisor's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.5 / 5.0

Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor, 6 Menus, Auto Defrost, ECO Mode, Mute Option & 16.5" Position Memory Turntable, 2.2 Cu Ft, 1200W, Stainless Steel

BEST PREMIUM PICK

A top tier microwave with 1200 watts and a spacious 2.2 cubic foot capacity handles large meals with ease. Smart sensor technology adjusts cooking time for optimal results. The 16.5 inch turntable rotates smoothly with position memory. ECO Mode and mute function add efficiency and quiet operation. Perfect for families wanting advanced features and premium build.

Key Specifications

Wattage

✓1200W

Capacity

✓2.2 Cu Ft

Turntable Size

✓16.5 Inch

Sensor Technology

✓Smart Sensor

Preset Menus

✓6 Presets

Dimensions

✓Large Design

Reasons to Buy

✓High capacity
✓Sensor cooking
✓Quiet operation
✓Energy efficient

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Large footprint
✗Higher price point

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Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

When selecting a countertop microwave, prioritize wattage, capacity, and usability features. Models with 900 to 1200 watts offer faster, more even cooking, ideal for reheating and defrosting. Capacity should match your household size—0.7 to 1.2 cubic feet suits singles or couples, while families may prefer 1.3 cubic feet or more. Look for intuitive controls, preset cooking programs, and sensor cooking, which adjusts time and power automatically. Inverter technology improves temperature control for more consistent results. Turntable size and interior material also impact performance; a full-sized turntable ensures even heating, while stainless steel interiors resist stains and are easier to clean.

Budget Recommendations

Microwave prices typically range from $50 to $200. Budget models ($50–$80) offer basic functionality and lower wattage, suitable for light use. Mid-range options ($80–$150) balance performance, capacity, and features like sensor cooking and preset menus, making them ideal for most households. Premium models ($150–$200) often include inverter technology, larger capacities, and advanced settings such as convection cooking. Investing in a mid-range microwave delivers the best value, combining reliability and useful features without unnecessary extras.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid choosing a microwave solely based on size or price without considering your kitchen space and usage needs. Oversized units may not fit under cabinets, while undersized ones limit meal prep. Don’t overlook noise levels—some models emit loud fans or beeps. Skipping research on ease of cleaning can lead to frustration; models with hard-to-reach crevices or non-removable turntables are harder to maintain. Finally, ignoring warranty and brand reputation may result in poor long-term reliability. Always read customer reviews and verify safety certifications before purchasing.

How We Test Best Counter Top Microwave Ovens

Our team has spent years researching and evaluating counter top microwave ovens across dozens of products available on the market today. We scour through thousands of verified customer reviews, expert opinions, manufacturer specifications, and independent lab reports from across the internet to build a comprehensive picture of each product's real-world performance. Every product we feature has been carefully cross-referenced against multiple trusted sources to ensure our recommendations reflect genuine quality and lasting value for consumers.

Our rating system is built on years of hands-on experience with counter top microwave ovens and closely related products. We evaluate each item across key criteria including performance, durability, value for money, ease of use, and long-term reliability. Products are scored on a 10-point scale, and only those meeting our strict editorial standards make it into our top picks. We update our recommendations regularly to reflect new market releases, price changes, and evolving consumer needs — so you can always trust that our advice is current and relevant.

Who Should Buy

Students

Need quick, easy meal solutions in dorm rooms or small apartments where full kitchens are unavailable.

Remote workers

Benefit from convenient lunch and snack heating options without leaving their home office space.

Small household families

Require efficient, space-saving cooking appliances for preparing simple meals on busy schedules.

Senior citizens

Appreciate easy-to-use appliances for reheating food safely with minimal physical effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size countertop microwave should I buy for a small kitchen?

For a small kitchen, a compact or mid-size countertop microwave with a capacity of 0.7 to 1.2 cubic feet is ideal. These models typically measure around 18-20 inches in width, fitting comfortably on limited counter space while still accommodating standard dinner plates and most cooking needs.

Which features should I look for in the best countertop microwave oven?

Look for features like sensor cooking, inverter technology, preset cooking programs, a quiet operation mode, and a user-friendly digital interface. Sensor cooking adjusts time and power automatically based on moisture levels, while inverter technology provides consistent power for more even heating.

Are stainless steel countertop microwaves better than other finishes?

Stainless steel microwaves are popular due to their durability, modern look, and resistance to fingerprints and smudges (especially with a smudge-proof coating). They tend to match a variety of kitchen styles, but the finish doesn't impact performance—choose based on aesthetics and maintenance preference.

How many watts should a good countertop microwave have?

A good countertop microwave should have between 800 and 1200 watts. Models with 1000 watts or more heat food quickly and evenly, making them ideal for most households. Lower wattage microwaves (under 800 watts) may cook slower and less evenly.

Can a countertop microwave replace a built-in or over-the-range microwave?

Yes, a countertop microwave can effectively replace a built-in or over-the-range model, especially in apartments, dorms, or kitchens with limited cabinetry. While it takes up counter space, it's easier to install, typically more affordable, and offers similar or better features in many cases.