6 Best Countertop Microwaves of 2026

This ultra-affordable microwave delivers far more than its modest price tag suggests. With 700 watts of cooking power, a 10-inch glass turntable, and intuitive one-touch presets for popcorn, pizza, and reheat, it tackles daily meals with surprising efficiency. The inclusion of an ECO Mode—slashing standby power by 50%—makes it a standout for eco-conscious households, while the mute function eliminates disruptive beeps, a godsend for late-night snacks or early mornings.

In real-world testing, the COMFEE’ holds its own for small servings and reheating leftovers, though it struggles slightly with larger containers due to its compact 0.7 cu.ft. cavity. The digital controls are responsive, and the bright display ensures easy readability, but the lack of sensor cooking means you’ll need to manually adjust times for optimal results. It excels in dorm rooms, tiny kitchens, or as a secondary unit, where space and budget are top priorities.

When stacked against pricier models like the GE GCST10A1WSS, it obviously lacks advanced features like air frying or convection, but it outperforms others in value and simplicity. It’s the ideal pick for students, singles, or anyone who wants reliable, no-frills heating without cluttering the counter. For basic needs, this budget workhorse punches above its weight, offering essential functionality without compromise.

Step into serious heating territory with the spacious and sensor-smart SHARP microwave, built for families and meal preppers. Boasting a 1.6 cu.ft. interior—one of the largest in its class—and a removable 13.6-inch turntable, it effortlessly accommodates full dinner plates, casserole dishes, and oversized leftovers. The Sensor Cook technology automatically adjusts power and time, preventing overcooking and delivering consistent results, whether you’re reheating lasagna or steaming veggies.

During testing, the SHARP proved exceptionally reliable across varied loads, from a single mug of soup to family-sized meals. The 1100 watts of power ensure quick, even heating, while the blue LED display adds a modern touch to any kitchen. However, its sheer size may be a drawback for compact countertops, and the lack of air fry or convection modes limits versatility compared to multi-function models. It’s best suited for users who prioritize capacity and precision over bells and whistles.

Compared to the GE 2.0 cu.ft. model, it offers slightly less interior space but still handles most family-sized dishes with ease. While not as feature-rich as convection microwaves, it excels in core performance and reliability. If you regularly cook for multiple people and want hands-free sensor cooking, this SHARP model is a top-tier choice for large-capacity needs.

Don’t let its size fool you—the Chefman 900W microwave is a compact powerhouse designed for speed and precision in tight spaces. Packing 900 watts into a 0.9 cu.ft. cavity, it outmuscles many budget models, making it perfect for quick meals, office lunches, or studio apartments. The 10 power levels allow granular control, from delicate butter melting to rapid boiling, while the one-touch presets and memory function streamline daily use for busy individuals.

In real-world use, the Chefman heats food faster than lower-wattage competitors, thanks to its efficient power delivery and turntable rotation. The eco mode dims the display when idle, saving energy, and the mute button ensures quiet operation—ideal for bedrooms or shared spaces. However, its smaller turntable can struggle with wide dishes, and the lack of sensor cooking means you’ll need to monitor cooking manually. It’s best for users who want strong performance in a minimalist footprint.

Against the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB, it offers more power and control, though at a slightly higher cost. It doesn’t match the GE’s size or the SHARP’s sensor intelligence, but for those craving compact strength, the Chefman delivers serious cooking authority without sprawl.

Meet the undisputed champion of all-around performance—the GE 2.0 cu.ft. microwave blends massive capacity, intelligent cooking, and robust power into one seamless package. With a spacious 2.0 cubic foot interior and 1200 watts of output, it handles everything from frozen turkeys to batch-cooked rice with ease, making it ideal for families, entertainers, or serious home cooks. The sensor cooking controls automatically detect moisture levels and adjust settings, eliminating guesswork and preventing dry, overcooked meals.

In practice, this microwave shines in consistency and convenience—the weight-based defrost thaws meat evenly, and the instant-on express cooking lets you add 30 seconds with a single press. The glass turntable ensures even heating, and the two-step child lock adds peace of mind in homes with kids. While its size may overwhelm smaller kitchens, the compact-yet-powerful design maximizes interior space without excessive external bulk. It’s not the most feature-packed (no air fry), but it nails the essentials better than any other.

Compared to the SHARP 1.6 cu.ft., it offers larger capacity and superior sensor tech, while outpowering the Chefman and COMFEE’ models significantly. For those who want the best balance of size, smarts, and strength, this GE model stands tall as the overall leader in countertop microwaves.

Simplicity reigns supreme with the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7, a no-nonsense microwave that prioritizes ease of use and clean design over flashy features. Its push-button door release is a rare and welcome touch, offering smooth, one-handed access—perfect for when your hands are full. With 700 watts of power and 10 preset options, including potato, pizza, and beverage, it covers the basics efficiently, while the large LED display ensures clear visibility in any lighting.

In daily use, this model proves reliable and intuitive, especially for older adults or tech-averse users who want straightforward operation. The removable 10-inch turntable makes cleaning a breeze, and the child safety lock adds a layer of security. However, the lack of sensor cooking or eco mode means it’s less efficient than rivals like the COMFEE’ or Chefman. It’s best for users who value clean aesthetics and hassle-free functionality over advanced automation.

When compared to the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB, it offers a similar footprint and power but with a more modern door mechanism and brighter display. While it doesn’t offer the Chefman’s 900W punch or GE’s smarts, it stands out for minimalist elegance and user-friendly design, making it a top pick for simple, dependable use.

This multifunction marvel redefines what a countertop microwave can do—air frying, broiling, and convection baking all in a compact 1.0 cu.ft. stainless steel shell. With 1050 watts of microwave power and dedicated air fry and convection modes, it replaces multiple appliances, making it a game-changer for small kitchens, dorms, or RVs. The built-in crisper pan and elevated rack deliver crispy fries, golden chicken nuggets, and even roasted vegetables—no oil required.

In real-world testing, the air fry mode outperforms standalone units under $100, producing evenly browned results in under 15 minutes. The convection mode ensures even heat circulation, while the broil function adds a finishing sear to steaks or melts cheese perfectly. However, the smaller cavity limits batch cooking, and the interface has a slight learning curve. It’s ideal for cooks who want versatility without sacrificing counter space.

Compared to the standard GE 2.0 cu.ft. model, it trades some capacity for far greater culinary flexibility. While the SHARP or COMFEE’ may heat faster, none match this unit’s multi-cooking mastery. For those who want one appliance to do it all, the GE GCST10A1WSS is the ultimate upgrade in versatile cooking.