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

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, with Convection, Broil, Odor Removal Mode, 12.4" Position Memory Turntable, Child-Lock, 1.0 Cu.ft, Black Stainless Steel, ML2-EC10SA(BS) A

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,275
Cooking Functions
Interior Material

Most important from
999 reviews

Cooking Functions
Combining air frying, microwave, and multiple cooking functions in one unit makes it a perfect space-saving solution for smaller kitchens or apartments.
Interior Material
The stainless steel interior is durable and easy to clean, even when steam builds up during cooking.

The Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 microwave is a versatile countertop appliance ideal for kitchens needing a compact yet spacious microwave. With a 1.0 cubic feet capacity and a 12.4-inch turntable, it can handle items like a whole roasted chicken or a 12-inch pizza, making it suitable for families or those who cook varied meals. It delivers 1000 watts of microwave power (1600 watts input) for efficient heating and cooking.

Its standout feature is the 8-in-1 functionality, including air frying, convection baking, broiling, and an odor removal mode, which provide more cooking options beyond a standard microwave. The stainless steel interior ensures durability and easy cleaning, while the child-lock safety feature offers added security for households with children. The control panel combines knobs and touch buttons, making it relatively straightforward to use, although the range of functions may be somewhat complex initially.

Weighing around 39 pounds, this microwave is sturdy but not very portable. It is a great option for those looking to replace basic cooking appliances with one that saves space and adds extra cooking versatility, though users seeking a simple microwave with minimal functions might find it more complex than necessary.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,275
Cooking Functions
Interior Material

Most important from
999 reviews

Cooking Functions
Combining air frying, microwave, and multiple cooking functions in one unit makes it a perfect space-saving solution for smaller kitchens or apartments.
Interior Material
The stainless steel interior is durable and easy to clean, even when steam builds up during cooking.
#2

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor, 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior, 1000W, Silver

Rating
9.4
Safety Features
Size and Capacity
Turntable

Most important from
21187 reviews

Safety Features
The microwave is incredibly easy to use with a door lock that requires pressing a button on the handle, preventing children from accidentally opening it and spilling hot food.
Size and Capacity
The spacious interior fits most dishes comfortably, balancing size and compactness to suit various kitchen spaces.
Turntable
The glass turntable is easy to clean and resists staining, even with frequent use and occasional food splatters.

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS is a solid choice if you're looking for a countertop microwave with a roomy 1.2 cubic feet capacity and a 12.4-inch turntable that fits most plates and dishes comfortably. It delivers 1000 watts of cooking power, which is enough for everyday cooking tasks like reheating, defrosting, and basic meal preparations. One standout feature is its smart humidity sensor that automatically adjusts cooking time and power to help avoid overcooked or undercooked food, making it easier for anyone to get good results without guesswork. The microwave offers 10 power levels and 6 preset menus for popular foods, adding versatility and convenience.

Controls are straightforward with a touch keypad and one-touch start buttons for quick use. The interior is stainless steel, which is durable and easy to clean, and the ECO mode helps save energy when the microwave is idle. On the downside, the external dimensions are a bit bulky for smaller kitchens, taking up considerable counter space. Also, while it has many presets, some users might find the menu options limited if they want more specialized cooking functions. The mute function is great for quiet kitchens, but the operation sounds might still be noticeable during cooking.

This microwave is well suited for families and individuals who want a reliable, easy-to-use appliance with smart cooking adjustments and a spacious interior, especially if they have enough countertop room.

Rating
9.4
Safety Features
Size and Capacity
Turntable

Most important from
21187 reviews

Safety Features
The microwave is incredibly easy to use with a door lock that requires pressing a button on the handle, preventing children from accidentally opening it and spilling hot food.
Size and Capacity
The spacious interior fits most dishes comfortably, balancing size and compactness to suit various kitchen spaces.
Turntable
The glass turntable is easy to clean and resists staining, even with frequent use and occasional food splatters.
#3

BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry, Combi, Bake, Roast, and Convection Cooking, 0.9 cu. ft. Countertop Microwave, Stainless Steel, 900 Watts, Child-Lock, ES9P032NA

Rating
9.4
Cooking Functions
Wattage
Size and Capacity

Most important from
22371 reviews

Cooking Functions
This all-in-one appliance combines microwave, air fryer, bake, roast, and grill functions, saving significant counter space while delivering excellent cooking results.
Wattage
With 900 to 1000 watts of power, this microwave heats food quickly and evenly, avoiding cold centers and ensuring efficient meal prep.
Size and Capacity
The interior is spacious enough to fit full-sized dinner plates and large containers comfortably, making it practical for everyday use.
Control Panel
The touch control panel is intuitive and responsive, featuring useful preset menus that simplify cooking common foods like popcorn and pizza.
Turntable
The turntable cannot be turned off, but it helps maintain even heating throughout the cooking process.
Safety Features
Child-lock safety feature offers peace of mind, though guests unfamiliar with it might initially struggle to open the door.

The BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven offers a versatile cooking experience with its five functions: microwave, air fry, combi (grill/convection), bake, and roast. It has a compact 0.9 cubic feet capacity, which fits well on most countertops with its depth of about 15.5 inches, making it suitable for kitchens with limited space. The 900-watt power is solid for a unit of this size, allowing for efficient cooking and a good range of 10 power levels to adjust heat when needed. The microwave includes a helpful 11.3-inch turntable that ensures even cooking by rotating your food. Its interior is made of stainless steel, which is durable and easy to clean compared to typical painted surfaces.

This model features an easy-to-use touch control panel with preset menus that simplify cooking common foods like popcorn, frozen pizza, and various air-fried items such as fries and chicken wings. The air frying function is a standout, providing healthier cooking options without needing a separate appliance. Safety is addressed with a child-lock feature, protecting against accidental use.

One thing to consider is that while it offers many cooking modes, its compact size limits the quantity of food you can prepare at once, so it might not be ideal for large families or batch cooking. Also, it is not smart home compatible, so it lacks remote control or app features some may expect. This microwave is a great fit for individuals or small households looking for a multifunctional appliance that saves space and offers more than basic microwave cooking.

Rating
9.4
Cooking Functions
Wattage
Size and Capacity

Most important from
22371 reviews

Cooking Functions
This all-in-one appliance combines microwave, air fryer, bake, roast, and grill functions, saving significant counter space while delivering excellent cooking results.
Wattage
With 900 to 1000 watts of power, this microwave heats food quickly and evenly, avoiding cold centers and ensuring efficient meal prep.
Size and Capacity
The interior is spacious enough to fit full-sized dinner plates and large containers comfortably, making it practical for everyday use.
Control Panel
The touch control panel is intuitive and responsive, featuring useful preset menus that simplify cooking common foods like popcorn and pizza.
Turntable
The turntable cannot be turned off, but it helps maintain even heating throughout the cooking process.
Safety Features
Child-lock safety feature offers peace of mind, though guests unfamiliar with it might initially struggle to open the door.

Buying Guide for the Best Countertop 12 Inch Deep Microwaves

When choosing a countertop microwave, especially one that is 12 inches deep, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs. Microwaves come with a variety of features and capabilities, so understanding these can help you make an informed decision. Here are some key specs to consider and how to navigate them.
Size and CapacitySize and capacity refer to the physical dimensions of the microwave and the amount of space inside it. For a 12-inch deep microwave, you need to ensure it fits your countertop space and can accommodate the dishes you plan to use. Microwaves are typically measured in cubic feet. Smaller models (0.5-0.8 cubic feet) are suitable for reheating and small meals, while larger models (1.0-2.0 cubic feet) can handle larger dishes and more cooking tasks. Choose based on the size of your kitchen and the types of meals you prepare.
WattageWattage indicates the power of the microwave, affecting how quickly and evenly it cooks food. Microwaves typically range from 600 to 1200 watts. Lower wattage (600-800 watts) is sufficient for basic tasks like reheating and defrosting, while higher wattage (900-1200 watts) is better for cooking meals more quickly and evenly. Consider your cooking habits; if you often cook full meals, a higher wattage is beneficial.
Cooking FunctionsCooking functions refer to the preset programs and features that make cooking easier. Common functions include defrost, popcorn, pizza, and reheat settings. Some microwaves also offer advanced features like convection cooking, grilling, and sensor cooking, which adjusts the time and power based on the food's moisture levels. If you use your microwave for a variety of tasks, look for one with multiple cooking functions to add versatility to your kitchen.
Control PanelThe control panel is the interface you use to operate the microwave. It can be digital or mechanical. Digital panels offer more precise control and additional features like timers and preset programs, while mechanical dials are simpler and more durable. Choose a control panel that you find easy to use and understand. If you prefer straightforward operation, a mechanical panel might be best, but if you like having more options and precision, go for a digital one.
TurntableA turntable is a rotating glass plate inside the microwave that helps cook food evenly. Most microwaves come with a turntable, but the size and material can vary. Ensure the turntable is large enough to accommodate your dishes and is easy to remove and clean. Some models offer a turntable on/off option, which can be useful for larger dishes that don't fit well on a rotating surface.
Interior MaterialThe interior material of a microwave affects its durability and ease of cleaning. Common materials include stainless steel, enamel, and ceramic. Stainless steel interiors are durable and easy to clean but can be more expensive. Enamel and ceramic are also easy to clean and more affordable but may not be as durable. Consider how often you use your microwave and how important easy cleaning is to you when choosing the interior material.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are important to prevent accidents and ensure safe operation. Look for features like child locks, which prevent accidental use by children, and automatic shut-off, which turns off the microwave if it overheats. These features are especially important if you have young children or if the microwave will be used frequently. Prioritize safety features that match your household's needs.

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