We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Inverter Microwaves 2026 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology, Kitchen Essentials, Smart Sensor, Auto Defrost, 1.6 Cu.ft, 13.6" Removable Turntable, 33lb.&1250W, Black Stainless Steel

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,319
Power Output
Capacity
Cooking Modes and Presets

Most important from
56506 reviews

Power Output
Incredibly powerful and heats food quickly and evenly, eliminating cold spots or overcooked edges.
Capacity
Users appreciate the spacious interior and smooth rotating turntable, which ensures even heating.
Cooking Modes and Presets
The one-touch presets, such as the 'Popcorn' and 'Reheat' buttons, are convenient and save time.
Size and Design
The microwave's sleek black stainless steel finish and compact size make it a stylish and practical addition to any kitchen.

The TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven is a solid choice for those looking for an inverter microwave. With a powerful output of 1250 watts and a capacity of 1.6 cubic feet, it’s well-suited for meal prep in a household. One of the standout features is its Inverter Technology, which ensures even heating and defrosting, making it easier to cook various foods without hot or cold spots. The six smart sensor auto menus add convenience, automatically adjusting the power for popular items like pizza and vegetables, enhancing your cooking experience.

The design is sleek with a black stainless steel finish, and its compact size makes it fit nicely on most countertops. Plus, it’s equipped with a quick start button, allowing you to start cooking with a simple press, which is great for busy moments.

However, there are some considerations. While the removable turntable is a common feature, it can take up space and may not be ideal for larger dishes. Some users also might find the sound of the buzzer a little distracting, though the option to mute it is handy. Cleaning is made easier thanks to its stainless steel exterior, which is generally resistant to stains and easy to wipe down, but the turntable might require more effort to clean if food spills occur. Finally, the child lock feature adds peace of mind for families with young children, ensuring safety when in use.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,319
Power Output
Capacity
Cooking Modes and Presets

Most important from
56506 reviews

Power Output
Incredibly powerful and heats food quickly and evenly, eliminating cold spots or overcooked edges.
Capacity
Users appreciate the spacious interior and smooth rotating turntable, which ensures even heating.
Cooking Modes and Presets
The one-touch presets, such as the 'Popcorn' and 'Reheat' buttons, are convenient and save time.
Size and Design
The microwave's sleek black stainless steel finish and compact size make it a stylish and practical addition to any kitchen.
#2

Panasonic Microwave Oven, Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In Cyclonic Wave with Inverter Technology and Genius Sensor, 2.2 Cu. Ft, 1250W, NN-SN97JS (Silver)

Rating
8.2
Power Output
Cooking Modes and Presets
Sensor Cooking

Most important from
2422 reviews

Power Output
Its power and size are impressive, heating food faster and more evenly than previous microwaves with higher wattage.
Cooking Modes and Presets
The preset features for frozen entrees and thawing work remarkably well, adding to the convenience.
Sensor Cooking
Cooks incredibly well without creating hotspots, thanks to the Cyclonic Wave and Genius Sensor technology.
Ease of Cleaning
The microwave's surfaces are easy to clean, and it's a breeze to use, making it a standout appliance.
Size and Design
The microwave's stylish design and sturdy build quality make it a reliable addition to any kitchen, expected to last at least 10 years.

The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN97JS offers a powerful 1250W output and a substantial 2.2 cubic foot capacity, making it ideal for large families or those who enjoy cooking in bulk. Its Cyclonic Wave and Inverter Technology ensure efficient and consistent cooking without overcooking, which is great for maintaining the flavor and nutrients in your food. Turbo Defrost is a helpful feature for quickly defrosting food, saving you time in meal preparation.

The built-in automatic sensor and 20 preset menu items add convenience, adjusting power and cooking times based on the type of food. The 16.5-inch turntable provides ample space for large dishes, though its size requires a considerable amount of countertop space. Its stainless steel design is stylish and easy to clean, adding a modern touch to any kitchen.

At 36.8 pounds, it is relatively heavy and might be challenging to move. Given its range of features and high power, this microwave is best suited for larger households or serious home cooks who need reliable, efficient cooking performance.

Rating
8.2
Power Output
Cooking Modes and Presets
Sensor Cooking

Most important from
2422 reviews

Power Output
Its power and size are impressive, heating food faster and more evenly than previous microwaves with higher wattage.
Cooking Modes and Presets
The preset features for frozen entrees and thawing work remarkably well, adding to the convenience.
Sensor Cooking
Cooks incredibly well without creating hotspots, thanks to the Cyclonic Wave and Genius Sensor technology.
Ease of Cleaning
The microwave's surfaces are easy to clean, and it's a breeze to use, making it a standout appliance.
Size and Design
The microwave's stylish design and sturdy build quality make it a reliable addition to any kitchen, expected to last at least 10 years.
#3

TOSHIBA ML4-EM22PAIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Sensor Cook, 6 Auto Menus, Origin Inverter, Child Lock, 2.2 Cu Ft for Large Family, 16.5 Inch Removable Turntable, 1200W, Stainless Steel

Rating
7.9
Power Output
Size and Design

Most important from
5065 reviews

Power Output
The microwave heats food quickly and evenly, making it perfect for hot beverages, soups, and even defrosting by weight.
Size and Design
The lightweight design, due to inverter technology, makes it easier to handle but may cause it to slide on the counter.

The Toshiba ML4-EM22PAIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven is a powerful and spacious option for large families, with a 2.2 cubic feet capacity and 1200 watts of power output. Its standout feature is the inverter technology combined with a smart sensor, which ensures even cooking and defrosting by adjusting power and time based on the food's humidity. This means no more cold spots and consistently well-cooked meals.

The microwave also offers 10 power levels, adding versatility for various cooking needs, from defrosting to boiling liquids. Six automatic sensor cook menus make it user-friendly for quick and convenient meal preparation. Safety is addressed with a two-step child lock, making it a secure choice for households with young children. The 16.5-inch removable glass turntable allows for easy cleaning and accommodates large dishes.

The stainless steel design gives it a modern and sleek appearance, suitable for most kitchen decors. However, its larger size (21.6 x 24.4 x 13.6 inches) and weight (33.5 pounds) might be a concern for those with limited counter space. Additionally, while sensor cooking is a great feature, some users might find it takes a bit of trial and error to perfect. If you're looking for a robust, family-friendly microwave with advanced cooking technology, this Toshiba model is worth considering.

Rating
7.9
Power Output
Size and Design

Most important from
5065 reviews

Power Output
The microwave heats food quickly and evenly, making it perfect for hot beverages, soups, and even defrosting by weight.
Size and Design
The lightweight design, due to inverter technology, makes it easier to handle but may cause it to slide on the counter.

Buying Guide for the Best Inverter Microwaves

Choosing the right inverter microwave can significantly enhance your cooking experience. Inverter microwaves use advanced technology to provide more consistent and precise cooking results compared to traditional microwaves. They are great for defrosting, reheating, and cooking food evenly. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your cooking needs.
Power OutputPower output, measured in watts, determines how quickly and efficiently the microwave can cook food. Higher wattage means faster cooking times. Inverter microwaves typically range from 600 to 1200 watts. If you frequently cook large meals or need quick cooking times, opt for a microwave with higher wattage (900-1200 watts). For simpler tasks like reheating or defrosting, a lower wattage (600-800 watts) may suffice.
CapacityCapacity is the internal size of the microwave, measured in liters or cubic feet. It determines how much food you can cook at once. Small microwaves (0.5-0.9 cubic feet) are suitable for individuals or small families, while medium (1.0-1.5 cubic feet) and large (1.6-2.2 cubic feet) microwaves are better for larger families or those who cook larger dishes. Consider your typical cooking needs and kitchen space when choosing the capacity.
Cooking Modes and PresetsInverter microwaves often come with various cooking modes and presets, such as defrost, reheat, popcorn, and specific food settings. These features can simplify the cooking process by automatically adjusting the power and time for different foods. If you enjoy convenience and versatility, look for a microwave with a wide range of presets. If you prefer manual control, fewer presets may be sufficient.
Turntable vs. FlatbedTraditional microwaves use a turntable to rotate food for even cooking, while some inverter microwaves use a flatbed design with no turntable. Flatbed microwaves offer more usable space and can accommodate larger or irregularly shaped dishes. If you often cook large or oddly shaped items, a flatbed design might be more suitable. Otherwise, a turntable model can be just as effective for everyday use.
Sensor CookingSensor cooking technology detects the moisture and temperature of the food to adjust cooking time and power automatically. This feature helps prevent overcooking or undercooking, ensuring optimal results. If you value precision and ease of use, look for a microwave with sensor cooking. If you prefer to manually set cooking times and power levels, this feature may not be as crucial.
Ease of CleaningThe ease of cleaning is an important consideration, especially if you use your microwave frequently. Look for features like a removable turntable, easy-to-clean interior coatings, and minimal crevices where food can get trapped. Stainless steel interiors are often easier to clean and more durable. If you prioritize low maintenance, choose a microwave with these user-friendly cleaning features.
Size and DesignThe size and design of the microwave should fit well in your kitchen space and match your aesthetic preferences. Measure the available space in your kitchen to ensure the microwave will fit. Consider the door style (pull-down or side-opening) and control panel layout for ease of use. If you have a modern kitchen, you might prefer a sleek, stainless steel design, while a more traditional kitchen might benefit from a classic look.

FAQ