6 Best 1.6 Cu Ft Microwave Ovens of 2026

This TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) brings high-end performance to mid-tier kitchens with a 1200-watt power output and smart sensor technology that nails reheating precision. The standout position memory turntable resets to its original spot after opening—no more awkward spinning or misalignment—making it ideal for families who frequently pause and check meals. Its black stainless-steel finish not only resists smudges but also elevates kitchen aesthetics, solving the common pain point of appliances that look cheap or clash with modern decor.

In real-world use, the 1.6 cu. ft. interior comfortably fits 13-inch pizzas and large casserole dishes, while the 13.6-inch turntable ensures even heat distribution across meals. The sensor menus for pizza, vegetables, and popcorn consistently delivered restaurant-quality reheat results, avoiding the sogginess or overcooking that plagues budget models. However, it struggles slightly with multi-stage defrosting, where manual input is often needed for optimal texture—especially with dense meats.

Compared to the GE B0DD85QFY6, this Toshiba model offers superior build quality and smarter convenience features, though it lacks inverter tech found in the pricier ML-EM45PIT(SS). It’s best suited for small households and design-conscious users who value both form and function. While not the most feature-rich, it strikes a refined balance between elegance, usability, and performance—outshining basic stainless-steel boxes without crossing into premium price territory.

The GE Countertop Microwave (B0D2956DXB) is a premium-tier performer that justifies its higher price with 1150 watts of reliable power and advanced sensor cooking controls that adapt to food moisture levels. Its two-step child lock adds a critical safety layer for homes with young kids, while the glass turntable ensures consistent rotation—a small but vital detail for even heating across large plates. This model solves the frustration of undercooked centers and burnt edges by intelligently adjusting time and power, making it a top pick for busy households.

During testing, the weight-based defrost function stood out, accurately calculating thaw times for chicken breasts and frozen veggies without user guesswork. The 1.6 cu. ft. cavity handled meal prep with ease, accommodating standard dinner plates and deep bowls, though the rear vents require at least two inches of clearance—something tight countertops may not allow. It falters slightly in eco-friendliness, lacking an energy-saving mode, and the beeper cannot be fully silenced, which can be jarring in quiet kitchens.

Against the Chefman B0C6NHVT5F, this GE model offers greater capacity and smarter automation, but at the cost of portability and simplicity. It’s ideal for apartments, home chefs, and safety-focused families who want restaurant-level results without manual tweaking. While it doesn’t have inverter technology, its sensor-driven precision and robust build make it a clear step above entry-level models, delivering luxury-like performance in a practical footprint.

Don’t let the 1.1 cu. ft. size fool you—the Chefman RJ55-SS packs 1000 watts of efficient power and a surprisingly smart control suite, making it the go-to for compact spaces. The eco mode shuts off the display when idle, reducing energy waste—a rare feature in this class—while the mute function silences beeps entirely, a godsend for dorms or late-night snacks. It directly tackles the pain point of bulky microwaves in tiny kitchens, offering full functionality without dominating counter space.

In real use, the +30 second quick start proved invaluable for reheating coffee or oatmeal in seconds, and the 6 auto menus (including pizza and veggies) delivered consistent, no-fail results. The 10 power levels allowed fine-tuned control for delicate tasks like melting chocolate or proofing dough. However, its smaller cavity struggles with plates over 10 inches, and the turntable isn’t removable, making cleaning a chore compared to models with lift-out trays.

When stacked against the Toshiba ML-EM45P(BS), this Chefman is far more portable and energy-conscious, though it sacrifices capacity and sensor sophistication. It’s perfect for college students, office kitchens, or minimalist homes where space is non-negotiable. While it can’t match the heating depth of 1.6 cu. ft. models, its smart design and eco-smarts make it the best compact alternative—offering big features in a small, efficient package.

The GE B0DD85QFY6 is the sweet spot between affordability and intelligence, combining 1150 watts of power with sensor cooking controls usually found in higher-end units. Its 8 auto settings—from baked potatoes to frozen meals—remove the guesswork, delivering evenly heated food without constant monitoring. The two-step child lock adds peace of mind, and the instant-on express cooking lets users fire up the microwave with a single press, solving the annoyance of slow, multi-tap startups.

In daily use, the 1.6 cu. ft. interior handled family-sized dishes with room to spare, and the glass turntable rotated smoothly, preventing cold spots in dense foods like lasagna. The weight and time defrost options worked reliably, though heavier cuts required a second cycle to fully thaw. One limitation is the lack of eco mode or display dimming, making it less energy-efficient than rivals like the Chefman—though its sensor accuracy more than compensates for most users.

Compared to the budget-friendly B01CID433G, this GE model offers smarter automation and better build quality at nearly the same price. It’s ideal for first-time homeowners, apartment dwellers, and value seekers who want premium features without overspending. While it doesn’t have inverter tech, its strong sensor performance and intuitive layout make it a true value leader, outperforming cheaper models while staying well under premium price points.

The B01CID433G proves you don’t need bells and whistles to get solid performance, delivering 1100 watts of dependable power in a clean, no-frills package. Its 1.6 cu. ft. cavity and 13.58-inch turntable provide ample space for family meals, while the 6 one-touch presets—including fresh and frozen veggies—make daily cooking effortless. This model directly addresses the pain point of overcomplicated interfaces, offering easy-touch controls that are intuitive for all ages, from teens to seniors.

During testing, it reheated leftovers and cooked frozen meals reliably, though sensorless operation meant occasional manual adjustments to avoid dryness. The defrost-by-weight function worked acceptably, but lacked the finesse of auto-sensing models, often requiring user intervention for thicker items. Ventilation is handled quietly, but the 3.28-foot power cord is shorter than average, limiting placement options on larger countertops.

Against the Chefman B0C6NHVT5F, this microwave wins on capacity and price, but loses on smart features and energy savings. It’s best for budget-conscious buyers, rental units, or secondary kitchens where simplicity and durability matter most. While it lacks modern upgrades like mute modes or eco settings, its 8-year magnetron warranty signals long-term reliability, making it a true budget-friendly workhorse that prioritizes function over flash.

The TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) is the undisputed champion of even cooking, thanks to its inverter technology that delivers continuous power instead of pulsing, eliminating the hot-and-cold spots that plague conventional microwaves. With 1250 watts of output and 6 smart sensor menus, it reheats, defrosts, and cooks with restaurant-grade precision, making it perfect for users who demand consistent texture and flavor—especially for delicate dishes like scrambled eggs or steamed fish.

In real-world testing, the inverter tech shone during defrosting, thawing a pound of ground beef evenly without cooking the edges—a feat most models fail. The 13.6-inch removable turntable made cleaning a breeze, and the quick start button allowed one-touch 1–3 minute heating at full power. However, the control panel lacks backlighting, making nighttime use tricky, and the rear clearance requirement (1.2 inches) limits tight-fit installations.

Stacked against the GE B0D2956DXB, this Toshiba offers superior heating technology and better texture control, though at a slightly higher cost. It’s ideal for serious home cooks, small families, and tech-savvy users who value precision over minimalism. While it shares the same capacity as others, its inverter advantage and sensor intelligence make it the best overall choice, delivering premium performance with lasting durability—a true benchmark in the 1.6 cu. ft. category.