8 Best Countertop Microwave Ovens of 2026

When even cooking is non-negotiable, the Toshiba ML-EM45PIT(BS) rises above the rest with its inverter technology, delivering a steady stream of power instead of pulsing bursts. This means no more hot spots or cold centers—just uniformly heated meals every time, whether you’re reheating lasagna or defrosting chicken. The 1250W output and 1.6 cu.ft. capacity make it powerful and spacious enough for family-sized dishes, while the 13.6-inch turntable ensures everything rotates smoothly for consistent results.

In real-world testing, this microwave shines when handling delicate tasks like melting butter without scorching or reheating leftovers without drying them out. The 6 smart sensor auto menus take the guesswork out of cooking—just press “Pizza” and let the humidity-sensing tech adjust time and power automatically. It handles dense foods well, though extremely thick items like a whole frozen roast may still benefit from manual rotation. At 21.8 inches wide, it’s larger than average, so it demands more counter space than compact models.

Compared to the GE GCST10A1WSS, this model trades multi-functionality for superior heating precision, making it ideal for users who prioritize consistent performance over air frying or broiling. It’s the go-to choice for home cooks who want restaurant-quality reheating and defrosting without complexity. While it lacks convection or air fry modes, its focus on flawless microwave performance outshines flashy but underpowered competitors.

The GE B0DDM4N45M earns its title as the best overall countertop microwave by striking a near-perfect balance between power, size, and intelligence. With a spacious 2.0 cu.ft. interior and 1200W of output, it easily accommodates large dishes or full dinner plates—ideal for families or meal preppers. The sensor cooking controls are impressively responsive, adjusting time and power based on moisture levels to prevent overcooking, while the weight and time defrost options offer flexibility for frozen foods.

During testing, it consistently delivered crisp, evenly heated meals, even with dense or layered dishes. The glass turntable glides smoothly, and the sensor reheat function preserved moisture in leftovers better than most budget models. It’s surprisingly compact for its capacity, fitting neatly on most countertops despite its size. However, the control panel can feel slightly sluggish at times, and the lack of inverter tech means it uses power cycling, which can lead to slight inconsistencies with delicate tasks like melting chocolate.

When stacked against the Toshiba ML-EM45PIT(BS), this GE model offers more interior space but slightly less refined heating due to the absence of inverter technology. It’s the best all-rounder for users who want a large, reliable microwave without advanced cooking modes. While it doesn’t air fry or broil like the GE convection model, it excels at core microwave functions with smart features that simplify daily use.

If your kitchen lacks an oven but craves crispy, golden results, the GE GCST10A1WSS is a game-changing multi-function powerhouse. This countertop convection microwave combines 1050W microwave power with air fry, broil, and convection baking, letting you roast chicken, crisp fries, or bake cookies—all in one compact unit. The built-in crisper pan and elevated rack work in tandem with hot air circulation to deliver restaurant-style browning, something most microwaves can’t touch.

In real-world use, the air fry mode produces impressively crispy results with minimal oil—think crunchy sweet potato fries or golden chicken tenders in under 20 minutes. The convection mode heats evenly, though it’s best for small batches due to the 1.0 cu.ft. cavity. Broiling works well for finishing off dishes like gratins or melting cheese on burgers. However, the learning curve is steeper than a standard microwave, and switching between modes requires careful attention to settings. It’s also not ideal for large families due to the smaller interior.

Compared to the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS, this model trades sensor cooking precision for versatile cooking methods, making it perfect for singles, couples, or small households wanting oven-like results without the footprint. It’s the best choice for culinary flexibility, especially in dorms, RVs, or tiny kitchens. While it doesn’t match a full-sized oven in capacity, its multi-function design delivers far more cooking variety than any basic microwave.

For those seeking a no-frills, mid-size microwave that delivers solid performance at a mid-range price, the Chefman B0DY9CXFGG stands out as the best budget mid-size option. With 900W of power and a 0.9 cu.ft. interior, it’s ideal for singles, couples, or office kitchens—large enough for most meals but compact enough to fit in tight spaces. The 10 power levels offer surprising control, from gentle warming to full-power cooking, while the one-touch presets make daily tasks like reheating coffee or popping popcorn effortless.

In testing, it handled everyday tasks reliably, though it struggled slightly with thick foods like frozen burritos, requiring manual rotation for even heating. The memory function is a hidden gem—letting you save frequently used settings for one-touch access—great for busy mornings. The eco mode reduces standby power, and the mute button is perfect for quiet environments. However, the plastic-heavy build feels less premium than stainless steel models, and the turntable is smaller than average, limiting plate size.

Against the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM, this Chefman model offers more power and features—including memory settings and higher wattage—while staying under $80. It’s a smarter pick for users who want greater functionality without overspending. While it lacks sensor cooking or inverter tech, its practical design and customizable controls make it a standout in the budget segment.

The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM is a minimalist marvel—a compact, ultra-affordable microwave that nails the essentials without clutter. With 700W of power and a 0.7 cu.ft. interior, it’s tailor-made for dorm rooms, tiny apartments, or as a secondary unit for quick tasks. The one-touch express buttons for popcorn, pizza, and reheat make it idiot-proof, while the mute function ensures silent operation—perfect for late-night snacks without disturbing roommates.

In real use, it performs admirably for its size, reheating small meals and beverages quickly, though it struggles with larger or dense items. The eco mode cuts standby power by 50%, a rare feature at this price, and the two-step child lock adds safety without complexity. The interior is easy to wipe clean, and the pearl white finish resists fingerprints. However, the lack of power level customization (only preset options) limits flexibility, and the turntable is too small for standard dinner plates.

Compared to the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7, it offers similar capacity and wattage but includes eco mode and mute function, giving it an edge in efficiency and quiet operation. It’s the best compact budget pick for users who want basic, reliable performance in a tiny footprint. While it won’t replace a full-sized microwave, its simplicity and energy-saving features make it ideal for light-duty use.

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 wins on simplicity and sleek design, making it the best simple design microwave for users who want clean lines and intuitive controls. Its stainless steel finish resists smudges, and the push-button door release feels modern and smooth—no more awkward handle pulls. With 700W of power and a 0.7 cu.ft. cavity, it’s built for small kitchens, dorms, or offices where space and style matter.

In practice, it handles basic reheating and defrosting with ease, though it’s not suited for large meals. The pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, pizza, and beverages deliver consistent results, and the 30-second express cook is handy for quick boosts. The removable 10-inch turntable is larger than expected for this size, improving usability. However, it lacks sensor cooking or eco mode, and the interior light is dim, making it hard to monitor food in low light.

Against the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM, this model offers a more premium look and feel, along with a larger turntable, but misses out on energy-saving features. It’s the ideal pick for style-conscious users who want a no-nonsense, attractive microwave. While it doesn’t offer advanced tech, its elegant design and reliable function make it a standout in the compact category.

When precision cooking is the priority, the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS takes the crown as the best sensor cooking microwave. Its smart humidity sensor continuously monitors steam levels and automatically adjusts time and power, ensuring meals are never overcooked—whether it’s a bowl of soup or a plate of leftovers. With 1000W of power and a 1.2 cu.ft. interior, it’s spacious enough for most household needs, and the 12.4-inch turntable keeps food rotating evenly.

In testing, the sensor reheat function preserved moisture better than any other model in its class, and the 12 auto menus cover everything from pizza to frozen veggies with impressive accuracy. The mute mode and eco mode add convenience and efficiency, while the easy-clean interior resists stains and wipes down effortlessly. However, the sensor can occasionally misread very dry foods, requiring manual intervention. Also, while it has 10 power levels, the interface feels slightly dated compared to touchpad models.

Compared to the Farberware 1.2 cu.ft. model, this Toshiba unit offers superior sensor technology and more auto menus, making it better for users who want set-and-forget cooking. It’s the top choice for tech-savvy home cooks who value consistent, hands-off results. While it lacks air frying, its focus on intelligent microwave performance makes it a smarter investment than feature-heavy but less precise rivals.

The Farberware B07VNT3L14 is the best value microwave for users who want Toshiba-level features at a lower price. With 1000W of power and a 1.2 cu.ft. cavity, it matches the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS in size and output, but undercuts it by nearly $30. The smart sensor auto cook works well for common foods, and the six one-touch presets make daily use fast and intuitive. The interior lighting is bright, and the easy-clean finish resists splatters and wipes clean with ease.

In real-world use, it delivers solid, consistent performance—reheating meals evenly and defrosting efficiently by weight or time. The ten power levels allow for fine-tuned control, and the kitchen timer and clock are clear and functional. However, the sensor isn’t as responsive as Toshiba’s, sometimes undercooking dense items. The build quality feels slightly lighter, and it lacks eco mode, which is a small but notable omission.

Against the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS, it trades slightly less refined sensor tech for significant cost savings, making it ideal for budget-conscious buyers who still want smart features. It’s the best bang-for-your-buck option for families or first-time buyers. While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles, its reliable performance and clean design make it a smart, practical choice.