4 Best Countertop 12 Inch Deep Microwaves 2026 in the United States

The SHARP ZSMC1461HB microwave offers a spacious 1.4 cubic feet capacity, making it suitable for families or those who often cook large portions. With 1100 watts of power, it ensures efficient and quick cooking. The inclusion of a 12.4-inch carousel turntable helps in evenly cooking or reheating food, which is a significant plus for consistent results.

The control panel is touch-operated, adding to the modern and sleek design of the microwave. It also features a new white LED display and interior lighting, making it easier to check on your food without opening the door. This model comes with 10 power levels and 2-stage cooking options, providing flexibility for various cooking needs. The microwave also includes convenient functions like the +30 seconds instant start, melt/soften function, sensor cook for precise cooking, and auto cook for popular menu items.

The weight and time defrost options make thawing food quick and accurate. However, the microwave is relatively large with dimensions of 12.4 x 20.4 x 18.1 inches and weighs 39.7 pounds, so it requires a significant amount of counter space. Users looking for a more compact option might find this microwave too bulky. Additionally, it ranks #289 in countertop microwave ovens, so there may be more popular options available.

The SAMSUNG 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave Oven stands out with its sleek black and mirror finish design, making it an attractive addition to any kitchen. It offers a 1000-watt power output and 10 power levels, ensuring efficient cooking. The 1.1 cubic feet capacity is ample for most residential needs, and the built-in ceramic turntable ensures even heating of your dishes. The grilling element is a notable feature, allowing you to grill food inside the microwave, which is a nice bonus for quick meals.

The 37 auto cook presets, including options like popcorn and auto defrost, add convenience and versatility to cooking tasks. The ceramic enamel interior is durable and easy to clean, resisting scratches from daily use. The intuitive LED control panel makes it easy to select functions, and the child safety lock provides peace of mind by preventing accidental use by children. However, at 15.8 inches deep, this microwave may take up a bit more counter space, which could be a consideration for smaller kitchens.

Also, weighing 35.3 pounds, it is relatively heavy for a countertop model. Some users might find the price on the higher end compared to basic models without grilling features. This microwave is suited for users looking for a mid-sized, versatile, and stylish appliance with advanced cooking options.

The SHARP ZSMC1161HW Countertop Microwave is a medium-sized unit with a 1.1 cubic feet capacity, making it suitable for average household use. It operates at 1000 watts, which is powerful enough for most cooking tasks, ensuring efficient heating and cooking. The microwave features a 12.4-inch carousel turntable that promotes even cooking and is removable for easy cleaning.

This model includes a convenient '+30 seconds' button for quick starts and an 'Express Cook' function for single-press cooking up to 6 minutes, adding to its ease of use. Additionally, it has auto cook options for popular menu items and defrost functions based on weight and time, enhancing its versatility in the kitchen. The control panel is straightforward with white LED display lights, contributing to its user-friendly design. The gray interior with LED lighting makes monitoring the cooking process simple and clear.

Safety features include a solid construction and design, although specific safety mechanisms are not detailed. One potential drawback is its 33.1-pound weight, which might be cumbersome for some users when moving or installing. It's a reliable option for residential use with a mix of modern design and practical functionalities.