If you’ve ever stood in the kitchen, wondering which countertop microwave truly earns the hype, you’re in the right place. We’ve sifted through countless reviews, tested performance, and weighed features to bring you the top‑rated models that combine power, convenience, and value. From sleek designs that fit any décor to smart sensors that perfect every reheating, our guide cuts through the noise so you can pick the perfect microwave with confidence. We also include tips for maintenance and long‑term reliability.
Key Takeaways
- The top-rated microwave features a large 2.2 cu ft interior for maximum capacity.
- Smart humidity sensor ensures precise cooking by adjusting time and power automatically.
- Six preset menus and auto-defrost simplify everyday meal prep significantly.
- Eco mode reduces energy use, making it efficient for frequent use.
- Choose based on capacity, sensor cooking, and preset options for best results.

Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor
Family-Size Power
- Large 2.2 cu ft interior
- Smart humidity sensor
- Six convenient preset menus
- BEST FOR SMART SENSOR POWER: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft Read More ↓
- BEST FOR SENSOR COOKING PRO: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4″ Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor Read More ↓
- BEST FOR FAMILY-SIZE POWER: Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor Read More ↓
- BEST FOR INVERTER EVENHEAT: TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology Read More ↓
- BEST FOR COMPACT SENSOR: GE Countertop Microwave Oven Read More ↓
- BEST FOR MEMORY TURNTABLE: TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and 13.6″ Removable Position Memory Turntable Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ECO PRESET POWER: Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. Digital Stainless Steel Microwave 1000 Watts with 6 Auto Menus Read More ↓
- BEST FOR VERSATILE ONE-TOUCH: Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power Read More ↓
- BEST FOR COMPACT QUICKCOOK: Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. Read More ↓
- BEST FOR SLEEK CAROUSEL COOK: SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6″ Carousel Turntable Read More ↓
Product Comparison: Best Highest Rated Countertop Microwave
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

Meet the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS, a 1.2‑cu‑ft countertop microwave that blends power with convenience. With 1000 W output and a spacious 13.1 × 12.4 × 8.3‑inch interior, it handles everything from reheating pizza to boiling soups.
Smart Sensor Technology reads food humidity and automatically fine‑tunes time and power for perfectly cooked results. Six preset menus simplify popular dishes, while ten power‑level options give chefs precise control.
The 12.4‑inch removable glass turntable makes cleaning easy, and the One‑Touch Start/Defrost feature lets you begin cooking in seconds. Its sleek 20.6 × 16 × 11.8‑inch footprint fits most countertops, delivering reliable performance for busy kitchens.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Smart Sensor cooking
- Six handy presets
- Spacious interior capacity
- Easy One‑Touch start
- Removable glass turntable
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- No convection function
- Loud fan noise
- No stainless steel exterior
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

Introducing the Toshiba EM131A5C-SS, a sleek stainless‑steel countertop microwave offering the same 1.2 cu ft capacity and 1000 W power as its sibling. Its Smart Sensor Technology automatically adjusts cooking parameters based on moisture, delivering evenly heated meals without guesswork.
Six preset programs cover pizza, vegetables, reheating, and more, while ten power levels let you fine‑tune performance for delicate or robust dishes. The 12.4‑inch removable glass turntable rotates food smoothly, and the One‑Touch Start/Defrost button simplifies everyday use.
Measuring 20.6 × 16 × 11.8 inches, it blends into modern kitchens with a polished finish and reliable durability.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Stainless steel finish
- Smart Sensor cooking
- Six preset programs
- Ten power levels
- One‑Touch Defrost
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- No convection option
- Can be pricey
- Limited interior space
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

Meet the Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS), a spacious 2.2‑cu‑ft countertop microwave that delivers 1200 W of power for fast, even cooking. Its intuitive humidity sensor works with six preset menus—bacon, frozen rolls, beverages, chicken, oatmeal, and more—to lock in moisture and prevent over‑cooking.
The Auto‑Defrost function tailors cycles for meat, poultry, and fish, mimicking natural thawing. Features like eco‑mode, child lock, interior light, and a clear clock make daily use effortless, while the multi‑stage cooking and memory function add flexibility for busy families.
Perfect for large meals and everyday convenience.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Large 2.2 cu ft interior
- Smart humidity sensor
- Six convenient preset menus
- Auto-defrost for meats
- Eco mode saves energy
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavy and bulky
- No built‑in grilling
- Controls can feel stiff
TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology, Kitchen Essentials, Smart Sensor, Auto Defrost, 1.6 Cu.ft, 13.6″ Removable Turntable, 33lb.&1250W, Black Stainless Steel

Upgrade your kitchen with the Toshiba ML-EM45PIT(BS), a compact yet powerful microwave featuring 1250 W output and inverter technology for consistent heating. Its 13.6‑inch glass turntable fits standard plates, while six smart‑sensor auto menus automatically adjust power for pizza, potatoes, vegetables, and more.
A two‑step child lock adds peace of mind, and the sound on/off button lets you silence the buzzer when needed. The sleek 21.8 × 19.2 × 12.9‑inch footprint saves counter space without sacrificing performance, making it ideal for small families or apartments.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Inverter technology ensures even heating
- Six smart sensor menus
- Compact countertop footprint
- Two-step child lock
- Sound mute function
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Glass turntable can wobble
- No grill function
- Control panel lacks backlight
GE Countertop Microwave Oven,1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8 Auto Setting Cooking Settings, Child-Lock Technology, Kitchen Essentials for the Countertop, Dorm Room or Apartment, Stainless Steel

GE’s countertop microwave blends sleek design with robust performance, offering 1200 watts of power within a compact 2.0‑cubic‑foot interior. A glass turntable spins evenly for consistent heating, while sensor cooking automatically fine‑tunes time and power to deliver perfectly cooked meals.
The two‑step child lock adds peace of mind for families, and the instant‑on express controls make everyday cooking fast and intuitive. Defrosting is simple with weight‑based or timed options, and the built‑in timer and audible alerts keep you informed.
Ideal for small kitchens, this model balances space‑saving size with versatile functionality.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Child lock safety
- Compact yet powerful
- Sensor cooking accuracy
- One‑touch operation
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- No grilling function
- Glass turntable fragile
TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and 13.6″ Removable Position Memory Turntable, Sound On/Off Function, 1200W, 1.6 Cu.ft, Black Stainless Steel

Toshiba’s ML‑EM45P countertop microwave delivers 1200 watts of power and a generous 1.6‑cubic‑foot cavity, perfect for family meals and large dishes like a 13‑inch pizza. Ten power levels and pre‑programmed sensor menus automatically adjust heating for foods such as pizza, potatoes, and vegetables, ensuring optimal texture every time.
The innovative position‑memory turntable returns to its starting point for safer loading, while a dedicated popcorn button adds convenience. Additional features include auto‑defrost, multi‑stage cooking, child lock, clock, and timer.
A mute‑buzzer option lets you silence alerts, making this versatile unit a solid kitchen workhorse.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Sensor menus optimize texture
- Spacious 1.6 cu ft
- Position‑memory turntable feature
- One‑touch popcorn button
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- No convection mode
- Buzzer mute tricky
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. Digital Stainless Steel Microwave 1000 Watts with 6 Auto Menus, 10 Power Levels, Eco Mode, Memory, Mute Function, Child Safety Lock, Easy Clean

The Chefman Countertop Microwave blends sleek stainless steel styling with powerful 1000‑watt performance, making it a standout for small kitchens, dorms, or apartments. Its six express presets—popcorn, potato, pizza, veggies, beverages, and leftovers—take the guesswork out of cooking, while ten power levels let you fine‑tune heating.
A handy memory function stores your favorite settings for quick reuse, and the multi‑phase cooking feature lets you combine two cycles for complex dishes. For quieter meals, the mute button silences beeps, and the compact 1.1‑cu‑ft cavity fits most everyday plates.
Easy‑to‑read digital controls round out the user‑friendly design.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Six preset programs
- Quiet mute option
- Memory save function
- Multi-phase cooking cycles
- Stainless steel finish
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- No turntable included
- Limited interior space
- Control panel feels stiff
Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless

The Farberware 1.1‑cu‑ft Countertop Microwave offers a robust 1000‑watt output in a space‑saving design, perfect for kitchens, offices, or dorm rooms. Ten power levels and multi‑stage cooking give you full control, while six one‑touch presets—popcorn, potato, pizza, and more—speed up everyday meals.
An intuitive LED display shows a clock and timer, and interior lighting lets you watch food as it cooks. The interior and exterior are easy to wipe clean, and a child‑safety lock adds peace of mind.
With a clear control panel and reliable performance, this microwave handles everything from reheating leftovers to defrosting meats.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Ten power levels
- Six one-touch presets
- Child safety lock
- Easy-clean interior
- Clear LED display
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- No sensor cooking
- Turntable not removable
- Beep volume loud
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

Chefman’s 0.7‑cu‑ft countertop microwave packs 700 watts of power into a sleek, space‑saving design. Six one‑touch presets—popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, leftovers—let you start cooking with a single press, while the 10 power levels give fine control from gentle melt to rapid heat.
The digital control panel features a handy +30‑second button and a memory function that stores your favorite settings. A built‑in child safety lock on the handle prevents accidental opening, and the lock mode can disable the panel for extra peace of mind.
Ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or office break‑areas.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Six one‑touch presets
- 10 power levels
- Child safety lock
- Memory function
- Compact footprint
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited interior space
- No grill function
- Plastic exterior feels cheap
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6″ Carousel Turntable, 900 Watt, 0.9 Cubic Feet, Stainless Steel

Sharp’s 0.9‑cu‑ft countertop microwave offers 900 watts of power in a modern stainless‑steel shell, perfect for families needing a bit more cooking room. A 10.6‑inch carousel turntable ensures even heating, while the new gray interior and white LED display add a stylish touch.
Ten power levels and two‑stage cooking let you fine‑tune results, and the Auto Cook menu covers popular dishes with a single press. Quick thawing is handled by weight‑and‑time defrost, and the Express Cook button adds up to six minutes of instant cooking.
Easy to clean and built for reliable performance on any countertop.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Spacious 0.9 cu ft
- Powerful 900 watts
- Even heating turntable
- Auto Cook presets
- Express Cook button
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- No convection option
- Large footprint
- No child lock
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What key features should I prioritize when choosing a countertop microwave?
Look for a microwave with at least 1.0 cubic foot of interior space to accommodate most dishes, and a power rating of 900‑1,200 watts for quick, even heating. Additional features like sensor cooking, inverter technology, and a turntable or flatbed design can improve cooking results. Consider the control panel layout and preset cooking programs for ease of use.
How does sensor cooking differ from manual power settings?
Sensor cooking uses built-in humidity sensors to automatically adjust time and power, reducing the risk of overcooking. Manual settings give you full control but require you to estimate cooking times, which can be less consistent. For everyday convenience, a model with both options offers the best flexibility.
Is a higher wattage always better?
Higher wattage generally means faster cooking and more even heat distribution, which is ideal for reheating and defrosting. However, very high wattage can increase energy consumption and may be unnecessary for small households. Choose a wattage that matches your typical cooking volume and budget.
What should I know about the interior material and cleaning ease?
Stainless steel interiors are durable and resistant to stains, while ceramic enamel surfaces are easy to wipe clean and less prone to scratches. Removable turntables and easy‑slide racks simplify cleaning. Look for models with a “no‑smell” interior coating if you frequently cook aromatic foods.
How do countertop microwaves compare in terms of value for money?
Value is determined by the balance of price, feature set, and reliability. Mid‑range models (around $120‑$180) often include sensor cooking, inverter technology, and sturdy construction, offering the best bang for your buck. Premium units may add smart connectivity but only if those extras are important to you.
Do smart microwaves justify their higher price?
Smart microwaves let you control cooking via smartphone apps or voice assistants, which can be handy for busy kitchens. However, the core cooking performance is similar to non‑smart models with comparable wattage. If you don’t need remote control features, a traditional microwave usually offers better cost efficiency.
What warranty and customer support should I expect?
Most reputable brands provide a 1‑year limited warranty covering parts and labor, with some offering extended coverage for an additional fee. Look for brands with responsive customer service and easy access to replacement parts. Checking online reviews for after‑sales experiences can help you avoid future headaches.