10 Best Countertop Microwaves 2025 in the United States

The Toshiba ML-EM45PIT(BS) is a solid countertop microwave with a roomy 1.6 cubic feet capacity, making it suitable for families or anyone who cooks larger portions. Its 1250-watt power ensures food heats quickly and efficiently. One standout feature is the inverter technology, which provides more even cooking and defrosting compared to traditional microwaves, helping to avoid hot spots or uneven textures in food. The 13.6-inch removable glass turntable is a convenient size for most dishes and makes cleaning easier.

This model offers six smart sensor auto menus that adjust cooking times and power levels automatically for popular foods like pizza and vegetables, reducing guesswork. The control panel includes a quick start button for fast one-touch cooking, and the sound on/off function lets you mute beeps, which some users find helpful. The two-step child lock adds an important safety layer to prevent accidental use, making it a good choice for homes with children.

Though it is relatively heavy at nearly 29 pounds, making it less easy to move around, and the control panel has a protective film that must be removed before use, these are minor inconveniences. While the microwave offers plenty of features for everyday cooking, it lacks more advanced or customizable settings that some might want. Its black stainless steel finish looks sleek but could show fingerprints more easily than other finishes. This Toshiba microwave effectively balances a roomy interior, powerful and even heating with inverter technology, and helpful safety and convenience features, making it well suited for most residential kitchens, especially families or users seeking reliable, sensor-driven cooking without complexity.

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable microwave with a good mix of features. With a capacity of 1.2 cubic feet, it accommodates larger plates and can even fit a 12-inch pizza, making it ideal for families or individuals who cook for multiple people. The microwave operates at 1100 watts, ensuring that your food heats up quickly and evenly, which is a significant advantage for busy kitchens.

One of the standout features is its pre-programmed sensor menu that optimizes heating for various foods, including pizza and veggies, which simplifies cooking. Additionally, the microwave includes a humidity sensor, helping to prevent overcooking. The control panel is user-friendly, with a large digital display, making it easy to select settings even for those who aren’t tech-savvy.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. While the microwave has a mute function, some users may find the buzzer sound to be persistent if not muted, which could be a nuisance in quieter households. The design, while attractive in stainless steel, may show fingerprints more easily, requiring regular cleaning to maintain its appearance. Furthermore, the weight of 34.6 pounds means it may not be as portable or easy to move around as lighter models.

In terms of safety features, the child lock is a welcome addition for families with young children. The easy clean interior is another practical aspect, ensuring maintenance is less of a chore. With a one-year warranty, you also get some peace of mind regarding any potential issues.

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS is well-suited for family use or for those who frequently cook larger meals. It offers practical features and a stylish design, but keep in mind its weight and maintenance needs when considering your kitchen setup.

The BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable countertop microwave. With a capacity of 1.1 cubic feet and a powerful 1000 watts, it offers ample space and cooking power for reheating meals or cooking snacks. The microwave comes with a variety of pre-programmed settings for common foods like popcorn and pizza, which makes cooking straightforward for beginners. The large LED display and easy-to-read control panel simplify operation, and the push-button door release adds convenience.

One of its standout features is the child safety lock, making it a great option for families with young children. The removable 12.4” glass turntable ensures even cooking, which is a plus for those who want well-heated food.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the microwave performs well for basic tasks, it lacks advanced features like inverter technology, which can provide more precise control over cooking power. Some users might miss additional cooking modes or smart technology options common in more expensive models. Additionally, at 30.6 pounds, it’s not the lightest unit, so moving it around may require some effort. In terms of size, it fits comfortably on most countertops, but it’s important to ensure you have enough space for its dimensions of 20.2” x 15.6” x 12.1”. The BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 is well-suited for residential use, especially for those who need a reliable microwave for everyday cooking without the need for high-end features.