Microwaves are indispensable appliances commonly used in most kitchens, and modern models offer much more than reheating leftovers. Today’s microwaves often come with cooking presets that simplify various tasks. With just the touch of a button, these appliances can steam fresh vegetables, defrost chicken breasts, melt chocolate, soften butter, and bake potatoes. Some advanced models also include grilling and convection heating functions.
Countertop microwaves are ready for use straight out of the box, requiring no installation. Their portability makes them easy to relocate as needed. They are generally compact enough to fit into even the smallest kitchens, whether placed on a table or a storage cart. Various models have been tested to ensure a well-rounded selection.
From basic reheating to more advanced functions like convection cooking and grilling, modern microwaves offer a wide array of options. Additionally, the ease of use, compact size, and portability make countertop models a versatile choice for various kitchen setups. Evaluating these features will help ensure that the microwave you choose enhances your cooking experience and meets your daily requirements effectively.
In A Hurry? Here Are Our Favorite Picks…
 | Panasonic Countertop Microwave | ||
 | Black+Decker 0.7 Cu. Ft. Digital Microwave | ||
 | Toshiba Convection Microwave Oven | ||
 | Toshiba Countertop Microwave Oven | ||
 | Farberware Microwave Oven |
Panasonic Countertop Microwave with Inverter Technology
With its spacious 2.2 cubic feet of cooking area and powerful 1,250-watt performance, this microwave is perfect for heating up family meals quickly. The turntable is a generous 16.5 inches in diameter, which means it can easily handle several plates, big serving dishes, or even a large casserole.
During testing, it comfortably heated two plates of pizza rolls at once. However, its sizable dimensions might be a bit much for smaller kitchens, so that’s something to keep in mind.
This microwave comes equipped with 14 presets for common items like popcorn, pizza, soup, oatmeal, pasta, and frozen foods. It also features 10 power levels and options for sensor reheating and cooking. Thanks to its advanced technology, it heats food evenly and speeds up defrosting time, so you’ll spend less time waiting. The “genius sensor” adjusts power and cooking time based on what you’re cooking, and the keep-warm feature ensures your food stays at the right temperature without overcooking.
Plus, the delay start function lets you set everything up and have it start cooking at the perfect time. After trying it out with various dishes like Indian curry, grains, and leftovers, it consistently delivered evenly heated food with no cold spots, making meal prep a breeze.
Pros:
The automatic sensors adjust both cooking times and power levels for perfect results.
Efficiently defrosts items without cooking them.
Versatile design allows it to be used either on a countertop or as a built-in unit.
Cons:
The size may be too large for compact kitchens.
Black+Decker 0.7 Cu. Ft. Digital Microwave Oven
Measuring just under 1.5 feet wide, this compact microwave is perfect for tight spaces. It’s well-suited for reheating leftovers in a dorm room, warming coffee at the office, or handling occasional tasks in a small apartment kitchen.
With a 0.7-cubic foot capacity, it offers ample power for basic microwave functions without consuming valuable counter space.
When not in use, it can conveniently fit under a cabinet if counter space is limited. Instead of a traditional handle, this model features a push-button door, which helps save space, though it may sometimes be a bit finicky.
The round glass turntable can be easily removed for cleaning up spills and splatters.
This microwave is best suited for smaller, salad-sized plates, as 11-inch dinner plates do not fit inside. Despite its compact size and lower wattage, the appliance performs impressively well. Most dishes were reheated in about the same time as they would be in a larger over-the-range microwave.
Pros:
Packs a punch with impressive power for its compact size
Features six express heat buttons for quick access
Includes a custom memory function for frequently used settings
Cons:
Cannot accommodate full-size dinner plates
Toshiba Convection Microwave Oven
Microwave ovens are excellent for steaming and reheating but typically fall short when it comes to browning foods. This combination microwave and convection oven addresses that issue effectively.
It offers the flexibility to use either the microwave or convection functions separately, or to combine them for rapid cooking and perfect browning simultaneously. Many reviewers have praised the convection performance, noting how well it crisps a variety of foods, including potatoes and frozen pizzas.
While this model lacks a wide range of specific food presets, it does feature buttons for auto bake, auto roast, sensor cook, sensor reheat, auto defrost, timed defrost, and keeping food warm.
It also allows for three personalized combinations of time and power settings, ensuring your hot chocolate is always just right and butter melts perfectly. Convection cooking ranges from 170 to 425 degrees Fahrenheit, and the microwave offers 10 power levels using 1,000 watts of power.
Pros:
Offers the flexibility to use microwave and convection cooking either separately or simultaneously
Built with high-quality materials for durability
Operates quietly, enhancing the cooking experience
Cons:
Limited number of food presets compared to other models
Toshiba Countertop Microwave Oven
This microwave is well-suited for everyday tasks, offering a bit more functionality than just the basics. It strikes a balance between size and efficiency, making it ideal for reheating a single serving of dinner or steaming frozen broccoli as a side.
With an interior capacity of 0.9 cubic feet and a 10.6-inch diameter turntable, it comfortably fits a dinner plate or a rounded casserole dish, though it might not accommodate rectangular dishes.
Equipped with 900 watts of cooking power, it features 10 power settings and a digital control panel. The defrost function allows users to either set a specific time or input the weight of the food, letting the microwave handle the rest.
It includes presets for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, and a dinner plate, providing convenient one-touch cooking for these common items. Additionally, if the microwave’s beeping is a nuisance, it can be silenced.
Pros:
Budget-friendly
Accommodates dinner plates with ease
Adjustable sound settings for convenience
Cons:
The round turntable may not be suitable for rectangular dishes
Farberware Microwave Oven with Grill Function
The grilling feature of this microwave distinguishes it from other models, offering more than just standard microwave functions. With a spacious 1.2 cubic feet of cooking area and 1,100 watts of power, it provides ample space and strength for various tasks. The 12.4-inch turntable and 10 power levels ensure efficient and even cooking.
It comes equipped with a range of cooking presets, including options for popcorn, potato, frozen pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, meat, and dinner plates. Users can defrost food by time or weight, customize cooking times and temperatures, and utilize multi-stage cooking to adjust power levels throughout the cooking process.
The grilling function is versatile, allowing users to grill food alone or in conjunction with microwave cooking for faster preparation and enhanced browning. It performs well with a variety of foods, from toast to steaks, and includes a grilling rack for added convenience. However, it is worth noting that the microwave can be somewhat noisy during operation.
Pros:
Offers the flexibility to use microwave and grilling functions separately or together
Features a sleek and modern design
Budget-friendly price
Cons:
Can be quite loud during operation
Conclusion
When selecting a microwave, it’s crucial to evaluate how well its features align with your specific needs and preferences. Today’s microwaves are designed to do more than just reheat leftovers. Many models offer advanced functionalities such as grilling, convection cooking, and various presets to streamline meal preparation.
If you’re working with a compact kitchen, a smaller model might be ideal, offering just enough power and functionality without taking up too much space. These compact microwaves are perfect for tasks like reheating single servings or steaming vegetables. On the other hand, larger models with expanded cooking capacities and additional features are better suited for families or those who entertain frequently. They often come with advanced options such as multi-stage cooking and sensor functions that adjust power and time for optimal results.
Ultimately, the best microwave is one that fits seamlessly into your kitchen, meets your cooking requirements, and provides reliable performance. By weighing the pros and cons of different models, you can make an informed decision and choose a microwave that will serve you well for years to come.
