10 Best Microwave Oven 2026 in the United States

The Toshiba OptiChef Air Fryer Combo Microwave is a solid choice for anyone wanting more than just a basic microwave. With 1100 watts and a 1.3 cubic foot capacity, it’s large enough for bigger meals like a whole chicken or a 13-inch pizza, making it convenient for families or meal prepping. Its Origin Inverter technology offers even cooking and faster results while preserving moisture and flavors, which is a step above many traditional microwaves. The unique ChefFry Plus air fryer function is great for those looking to cook healthier meals with crispy textures without needing a separate appliance.

The 2.4-inch color touchscreen and smart sensor make cooking more intuitive, and compatibility with Alexa and a smartphone app means you can control it remotely or by voice, which adds modern convenience. The Chef Defrost feature is a nice touch, speeding up thawing times while keeping food quality intact.

The microwave’s 21.8 x 19.4 x 12.8-inch size means it takes up a decent amount of countertop space, so it might be less suitable for very small kitchens. Also, while it offers advanced features and smart connectivity, it comes at a higher price point compared to simpler models, which might not be necessary for those who just want straightforward microwave use. Its turntable design is standard, so if you prefer a flatbed for easier cleaning and more space, this model doesn’t provide that. This microwave is an excellent fit for users who want versatile cooking options including air frying, appreciate smart features, and have the counter space to accommodate it. It blends modern technology and convenience well but might be more than needed for basic reheating or defrosting tasks.

The TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen appliance offering a solid 1000-watt microwave power combined with convection, broil, and air fry functions. Its 1.0 cubic foot capacity is quite generous for a countertop model, allowing you to cook larger dishes like a whole roasted chicken or a 12-inch pizza, thanks to the roomy 12.4-inch turntable with position memory which helps keep cooking even. The multi-functionality is a definite plus, giving you options beyond simple reheating, including defrost, odor removal, and healthy air frying for lower-fat fried foods. This makes it suitable for users seeking more cooking flexibility without needing multiple appliances.

The microwave’s compact size fits most kitchens without taking up excessive counter space, and its black stainless steel finish looks modern and is easy to clean. Safety is covered with a two-step child lock to prevent accidental use. Convenience features like one-touch popcorn, easy-to-turn knobs, a mute function, and a kitchen timer add to ease of use. However, the input power at 1600 watts means it consumes more electricity than basic microwaves, which might be a consideration for some. While the turntable design is traditional and reliable, there is no flatbed option which can sometimes offer more even cooking and easier placement of larger items.

This microwave oven is well-suited for families or individuals looking for a powerful, multi-use countertop microwave with good capacity and a variety of cooking modes, though it may not be the most energy-efficient option and lacks some newer tech features like flatbed design or inverter power control.

The BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven is a versatile countertop appliance that combines microwave, air fry, bake, roast, and combination cooking functions in one unit. With 900 watts of power, it provides quick and even cooking, making it suitable for everyday meals. Its compact 0.9 cubic feet capacity is ideal for smaller households or kitchens with limited counter space, though it may feel cramped for larger dishes or servings.

Featuring a turntable design, the microwave ensures even heating of food. It offers a wide range of pre-programmed settings for popular items like popcorn, frozen pizza, and air-fried snacks, simplifying cooking times and power levels, especially for beginners. The 10 cooking levels allow good control over cooking intensity. The stainless steel finish provides a modern look and is easy to clean, while the child-lock feature enhances safety for families with children.

The relatively small interior may limit the size of items that can be cooked, and its weight of 38 pounds makes it somewhat heavy for frequent relocation but stable when placed. This microwave oven is well suited for users seeking multi-functionality in a compact appliance, particularly those interested in air frying and roasting combined with traditional microwave capabilities. Its user-friendly presets and safety features make it a practical choice, although it may not be the best fit for larger families or those who cook large meals frequently.