Best Countertop Microwave Ovens of 2026

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2026

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Countertop microwave ovens are a popular kitchen appliance that can quickly and easily heat up food, making meal preparation a breeze. They are compact and take up minimal counter space, making them ideal for small kitchens or those with limited storage. Many models come with a variety of features, such as defrosting, cooking, and reheating options, making them versatile enough to handle a wide range of food types. They are also easy to clean and maintain, with removable turntables and easy-to-wipe surfaces. With their convenience and affordability, countertop microwave ovens are a must-have for any busy household.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700W Microwave Oven Cover #TOP 1
Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700W Microwave Oven
ftb score rating icon 9.8
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven Cover #TOP 2
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Impecca 1.6 Cu Ft 1100W Microwave Cover #TOP 3
Impecca 1.6 Cu Ft 1100W Microwave
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Countertop Microwave Ovens

#TOP 1

Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700W Microwave Oven

RJ55-7-V2
Black
0.7 Cu. Ft
Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700W Microwave Oven Cover
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button - Black

The Chefman 700W Microwave offers quick and easy cooking with six preset options like popcorn, pizza, and veggies, letting you prepare your favorite snacks without hassle. You can also set the cooking time manually by pressing number keys, making it simple to use. Its 700-watt power is packed into a compact design, giving you 10 power levels to choose from so you can gently melt butter or cook meals rapidly. The digital controls are user-friendly, allowing you to customize cooking time and power, and add extra time with a single button. Plus, the memory function lets you save your most-used settings for fast, one-touch cooking every day.

What We Like
Six preset cooking options
10 adjustable power levels
Easy digital controls
Memory function for quick use
#TOP 2

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven

EM131A5C-BS
1.2 Cu.ft
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven Cover
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior Black Color 1000W

The Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and efficient countertop microwave. It features a 1.2 cubic feet capacity, 1100 watts of power, a removable turntable, and a smart humidity sensor. It also has 12 pre-programmed sensor menus for optimum heating of popular foods like pizza, potatoes, and veggies. The large digital display and easy-to-read control panel make it easy to use, and the mute function allows you to turn off the buzzer. It also has an ECO mode and an easy-clean interior.

What We Like
1100 watts of power
Smart humidity sensor
12 pre-programmed sensor menus
Large digital display and easy-to-read control panel
Mute function

Impecca 1.6 Cu Ft 1100W Microwave

CM1606
Stainless Steel
Impecca 1.6 Cu Ft 1100W Microwave Cover
Impecca 1.6 Cu.Ft. Countertop Microwave, 1100W, Built-In Smart Sensor Cooking, 12.8-Inch Large Turntable, Stainless Steel

The Impecca 1100W Microwave offers a spacious 1.6 cubic feet interior, perfect for fitting large plates or multiple dishes, making family meals and reheating leftovers easy and efficient. With 1100 watts of power, it cooks your food quickly and evenly, saving you time. The smart sensor cooking feature automatically adjusts cooking time and power by detecting steam and moisture, so you get perfectly cooked popcorn, pizza, or frozen meals without guesswork. Plus, express cooking buttons let you start heating with just one touch for 1 to 6 minutes, giving you quick access to your favorite snacks or drinks without navigating menus.

What We Like
Large capacity
High power heating
Smart sensor cooking
One-touch express buttons
#TOP 4

COMFEE' EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven

EM720CPL-PMB
Black
0.7 Cu Ft
COMFEE' EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven Cover
COMFEE' EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black

The COMFEE' EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven offers a stylish black stainless steel finish and a compact size of 0.7 cubic feet, 1050 watts, and 11 power levels. It features a mute function, child safety lock, easy-to-use auto-cook functions, and one-touch express cooking with 1-6 minutes and plus 30 seconds functions. Additionally, it has energy-saving Eco Mode, a bright digital display, easy-to-read control panel, interior light, and a 10-inch glass turntable.

What We Like
Stylish black stainless steel finish
Compact size with 0.7 cubic-foot capacity, 1050 watts, and 11 power levels
Easy-to-use auto-cook functions and one-touch express cooking
Energy-saving Eco Mode
Bright digital display and easy-to-read control panel
#TOP 5

TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA Small Microwave Oven

ML-EM09PA(BS)
TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA Small Microwave Oven Cover
TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, Perfect for Apartment, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Black Stainless Steel

The TOSHIBA Compact Microwave offers a convenient and safe cooking experience for your kitchen. Its two-step child lock keeps young family members safe by preventing accidental use, giving you peace of mind. With a powerful 900-watt output and a spacious 10.6-inch turntable, you can cook your meals evenly and efficiently. The microwave includes six preset cooking menus for popular foods like popcorn and pizza, making it easy to prepare your favorites with just a touch. Plus, with 11 power levels and a built-in kitchen timer, you can customize cooking times and power to suit any recipe, ensuring perfect results every time.

What We Like
Child safety lock
900-watt cooking power
Six preset cooking menus
Eleven adjustable power levels
#TOP 6

BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven

EM720CB7
Stainless Steel
0.7 Cu.Ft-Standard
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven Cover
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a great choice for those looking for a powerful and reliable countertop microwave. It features pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate, as well as 700 Watts with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 Seconds Express Cooking. It also has a large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, and removable 10” glass turntable. It is UL approved and comes with a one year limited warranty.

What We Like
Pre-programmed buttons for various food types
700 Watts with 10 power settings
Large LED digital display and easy-to-read control panel
Child safety lock and interior light
Removable 10” glass turntable
#TOP 7

RCA RMW733-BLACK RMW733 Microwave

EMW733BLACKAMZ
Black
RCA RMW733-BLACK RMW733 Microwave Cover
FRIGIDAIRE EMW733BLACKAMZ 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black

The RCA RMW733-BLACK RMW733 Microwave is a compact and convenient microwave that is perfect for dormitories, apartment kitchens, and workplaces. It has a digital control panel that makes it easy to use and provides options for express cooking, altering the power level, postponing the start, setting the time, and stop/cancel features. The microwave also features two defrost timers, six different auto cooking settings, and a child safety lock to keep little ones safe. Additionally, the intuitive cooking settings with a smart sensor automatically adjust power and time for perfect results every time.

What We Like
Compact size ideal for small spaces
Digital control panel for easy use and customization
Intuitive cooking settings with smart sensor for perfect results
#TOP 8

Farberware Countertop Microwave 1.1 Cu. Ft.

FMO11AHTBKB
Stainless Steel
1.1 Cu. Ft.
Farberware Countertop Microwave 1.1 Cu. Ft. Cover
Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - Stainless

The Farberware Countertop Microwave 1.1 Cu. Ft. is a 1000-Watt compact microwave oven with LED lighting, Child lock, and Easy Clean Interior. It offers 10 power levels with multi-stage cooking and 6 one-touch cooking programs. The stylish stainless-steel front and handle give it an elegant look, and the interior LED lighting lets you keep an eye on cooking. It is perfect for residential use and is ideal for small spaces.

What We Like
1000-Watt output power
6 one-touch cooking programs
LED display with kitchen timer and clock
Stylish stainless-steel front and handle
Child safety lock function

GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven

GE
GCST10A1WSS
Stainless Steel
GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven Cover
GE GCST10A1WSS 1.0 Cu Ft Convection Microwave Oven, 1050W Countertop Air Fry Microwave with Broil & Crisper Pan, Compact Stainless Steel Design

The GE 4-in-1 Microwave offers versatile cooking options to elevate your meal prep. With its two-step child lock, you can ensure safety by preventing accidental use, making it ideal for families with young children. The air fry mode allows you to enjoy healthier versions of your favorite dishes, all while saving time. The convection mode provides even heat distribution, ensuring your meals come out perfectly crisp and golden. Additionally, the built-in broiler lets you sear and caramelize food just like on a grill, enhancing flavors and textures.

What We Like
Child lock for safety
Air fry for healthier meals
Even cooking with convection
Built-in broiler feature
#TOP 10

Chefman 0.9 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Microwave

RJ55-SS-9
Chefman 0.9 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Microwave Cover
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft. Digital Stainless Steel Microwave 900 Watt with 6 Presets, Eco Mode, Mute Option, Memory Function, Child Safety Lock, Kitchen, Home, Dorm Essentials

The Chefman Stainless Steel Microwave offers 6 pre-programmed settings, such as popcorn and pizza, to make cooking easier for you. With 900 watts and 10 power levels, it ensures better heating and defrosting in a compact size. The memory function saves your favorite settings for quick access. You can also benefit from multiphase cooking by programming different cycles for one meal. Additionally, the mute option allows quieter cooking sessions, while the eco mode helps save energy by turning off the digital display when not in use.

What We Like
6 Pre-Programmed Settings
Memory Function for Favorite Settings
Quiet Cooking with Mute Option
Best Countertop Microwave Ovens Feature Image

Best Countertop Microwave Ovens for Your Kitchen

Countertop Microwave ovens are ovens that can stand on their own. The countertops are different from the built-in microwave that need to be placed on the wall or the counter. The countertops microwave ovens can stand anywhere in the kitchen without some form of support.  They are excellent for big kitchens due to their firm stance and better support.

If you want a microwave that can stand on its own, you would appreciate the countertop microwave ovens that can be placed anywhere in the kitchen, making it easier for you to move them around. You can quickly microwave your food with the help of this microwave as it needs no installation and can be used once you buy the device. Before buying your countertop microwave ovens, you should consider some essential factors.

Factors to consider before buying countertop microwave

Type of countertop microwave ovens: there are different types of microwave ovens, and one of them includes the sensor countertop microwave oven. The best sensor countertop microwave oven has very active sensors that determine how long anything placed in the oven should stay to get heated.

Size of the kitchen: the kitchen's size is a vital determining factor regarding the countertop microwave oven you should buy. The countertop microwave ovens are very popular, and you would easily see different sizes of the microwave type. If you have a big kitchen, you can buy a medium to large countertop microwave oven as the microwave's size often affects its capacity. If you have a small space to put your microwave, consider buying a small-sized microwave to ensure space management.

Capacity: the capacity of the countertop microwave convection oven is another important aspect you should consider before buying your countertop microwave. If you need the microwave for more than just reheating food, you should consider getting a microwave oven with high capacity and wattage. The higher the watts, the more workload the microwave can take up. Another crucial part of a microwave that ensures it works well is the turntable. The best turntable countertop microwave ovens are usually substantial and of premium quality.

Benefits of countertop microwave ovens

Time-saving: one of the essential benefits of countertop microwave ovens is that they save time. Foods are reheated faster with good microwave ovens, and that helps you save energy and time. Some microwave ovens heat food for as short as one to two minutes to ensure you get your food within that range.

Energy-saving: Countertop microwave ovens with stainless steel interior save energy as it is easier to clean after usage. Microwaving saves you energy by helping you do all the work in reheating your meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What's the difference between in-built and countertop microwaves?

In-built microwaves are usually installed on the wall and other areas, while countertop microwaves can stand alone.

Can you clean your microwave oven?

Yes, you can clean your microwave by wiping it inside with a wet cloth. This removes dirt and pieces of reheated foods.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a standard size countertop microwave?

A standard size countertop microwave typically has dimensions ranging from 1.5 to 2.2 cubic feet, with widths around 21 to 24 inches and a height of approximately 13 inches. These dimensions provide enough capacity for most household cooking needs.

2. Is there a difference between a countertop microwave and a built-in microwave?

Yes, there is a difference between countertop microwaves and built-in microwaves. Countertop microwaves are freestanding appliances that can be placed anywhere on the countertop and plugged in. On the other hand, built-in microwaves require professional installation and are integrated into kitchen cabinetry. While countertop microwaves offer convenience and easy installation, built-in microwaves provide a seamless and integrated look in the kitchen.

3. What is the life expectancy of a microwave oven?

The average life expectancy of a microwave oven is around 7 to 8 years with normal usage and good maintenance. However, if the microwave is used less frequently by a single person or a couple and is well-maintained, it can last up to 10 years. Regular cleaning and proper usage can help extend the lifespan of a microwave.

4. What wattage is best for a microwave?

For best results, it is recommended to choose a microwave with a wattage of at least 1,000 watts. Most microwave recipes are designed for this power level, and higher wattage allows for faster and more efficient cooking. When shopping for a microwave, consider selecting a model with higher wattage to ensure versatility and optimal cooking performance.

5. What happens if you put a countertop microwave in a cabinet?

Putting a countertop microwave in a cabinet is not recommended. Countertop microwaves have built-in vents at the back to release steam and heat. When placed inside a cabinet, these vents can get blocked, leading to a potential fire hazard. It is important to use countertop microwaves on a proper countertop surface with sufficient ventilation to ensure safe and efficient operation.

6. Does a countertop microwave need to be vented?

Yes, a countertop microwave requires ventilation. Although there are no open flames or hot surfaces, the heat produced by the microwave and the moisture released from food can cause malfunction and efficiency issues if not properly vented. It is important to ensure adequate ventilation for a countertop microwave to maintain its performance and prevent any potential problems.

7. How long should a microwave last?

With normal usage and good maintenance, a microwave oven can last for around 7 to 8 years. However, if the microwave is used less frequently by a single person or a couple and is well-maintained, it can have a lifespan of up to 10 years. Proper care, regular cleaning, and following the manufacturer's guidelines can help prolong the life of a microwave.

8. What is the best wattage for a microwave?

As a general guideline, a microwave with around 1,000 watts is considered a standard power level for most recipes. However, it's important to choose a microwave model that suits your specific needs and usage patterns. Consider the wattage, shortcuts, and functionality that align with your cooking requirements to find the best microwave for you.

Editor's Notes

During our countertop microwave oven research, we found 16 countertop microwave oven products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 673,836 customer reviews through our big data system to write the countertop microwave ovens list. We found that most customers choose countertop microwave ovens with an average price of $103.14.

The countertop microwave ovens are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of countertop microwave ovens, including Chefman, TOSHIBA, Impecca, COMFEE', BLACK+DECKER. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Rebecca Cantu Avatar

Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.