Best Countertop Microwave Ovens of 2025

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2025

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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

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven Cover #TOP 1
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Panasonic Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology and Genius Sensor Cover #TOP 2
Panasonic Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology and Genius Sensor
ftb score rating icon 9.7
GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven Cover #TOP 3
GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Countertop Microwave Ovens

#TOP 1

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven

EM131A5C-BS
1.2 Cu.Ft. Black
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 1100W

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

Panasonic Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology and Genius Sensor

NN-SN686S
1.2 cft
Panasonic Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology and Genius Sensor Cover
Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In with Inverter Technology and Genius Sensor, 1.2 Cubic Foot, 1200W

The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S is a powerful appliance that has a lot of features for your convenience. It has a compact design that makes it perfect for small kitchens. With its Inverter Technology, it delivers consistent and evenly prepared food without overcooking, and the Advanced Inverter Turbo Defrost technology speeds up defrosting time. The built-in automatic Genius Sensor adjusts power and time based on different foods, and the Keep Warm feature keeps soups, gravies, or desserts warm and fresh until ready to serve. Lastly, it has a child safety lock feature for added security.

What We Like
Compact and space-saving design
Consistent and evenly prepared food without overcooking
Built-in automatic Genius Sensor for easy cooking
Advanced Inverter Turbo Defrost for faster defrosting
Child safety lock feature for added security

GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven

GE
GCST10A1WSS
Stainless Steel
GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven Cover
GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven, 1,050 Watts Air Fryer, Broiler & Convection Mode, Kitchen Essentials for The Countertop or Dorm Room, Child-Lock Technology 1.0 Cu. Ft, Stainless Steel

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 4

Farberware Classic Microwave Oven

Farberware
Stainless Steel
0.7 Cu. Ft.
Farberware Classic Microwave Oven Cover
Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts, 0.7 Cu. Ft. - Microwave Oven With LED Lighting and Child Lock - Perfect for Apartments and Dorms - Easy Clean Stainless Steel

The Farberware Classic Microwave Oven is a compact and powerful 700-Watt microwave that offers quick and easy meal preparation with 1-6 min. Express cooking and plus 30 sec. Button. It has 10 power levels with multi-stage cooking and 6 one-touch cooking programs, including popcorn, potato, and pizza. The LED display with kitchen timer and clock and the easy-view interior LED lighting make cooking easy and convenient. It also features a stylish Brushed Stainless-Steel front and handle and child safety lock function for added security.

What We Like
Compact and powerful 700-Watt microwave
10 power levels with multi-stage cooking and 6 one-touch cooking programs
LED display with kitchen timer and clock, and easy-view interior LED lighting
#TOP 5

TOSHIBA EM925A5A-BS Countertop Microwave Oven

EM925A5A-BS
Black
0.9 Cu Ft/900W
TOSHIBA EM925A5A-BS Countertop Microwave Oven Cover
TOSHIBA EM925A5A-BS Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu Ft With 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & ECO Mode, Child Lock, LED Lighting, Black Stainless Steel

The Toshiba EM925A5A-BS Countertop Microwave Oven is a stylish black stainless steel kitchen appliance with a timeless design. It has a 0.9 cubic feet capacity, 10.6 inch removable turntable, 900 watts with 10 power settings, clock, and kitchen timer. It comes with pre-programmed menus for 6 popular foods, one-touch start, power-saving eco mode, sound on/off option, and child safety lock. Customers have praised its performance, price, and quick start feature, but noted that it is noisy and has a hard door close.

What We Like
Performance
Price
Quick Start
#TOP 6

BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven

EM720CB7
Stainless Steel
0.7 Cu.ft
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

Nostalgia Retro Compact Microwave Oven

NRMO7WH6A
White
0.7 Cu. Ft.
Nostalgia Retro Compact Microwave Oven Cover
Nostalgia Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven - 0.7 Cu. Ft. - 700-Watts with LED Digital Display - Child Lock - Easy Clean Interior - White

Nostalgia Retro Microwave is a compact 700-watt oven with a 0.7 cubic foot capacity. It offers 12 pre-programmed cooking settings, a digital clock with LED display, and a rotating glass carousel for even cooking. The retro accents like the chrome handle and control panel add a fun touch to this appliance. With this microwave, you can quickly cook or reheat foods like popcorn, pizza, and veggies. The easy-to-read LED display makes it simple to use, while the rotating carousel ensures your food is cooked evenly.

What We Like
700-Watt Cooking Power
12 Pre-programmed Settings
Even Cooking with Carousel
#TOP 8

GE GCST11X1WSS Microwave Oven

GE
GCST11X1WSS
Stainless Steel
GE GCST11X1WSS Microwave Oven Cover
GE GCST11X1WSS Microwave Oven, 950-watt 6 Auto Cooking Settings, Kitchen Essentials for The Countertop, Dorm Room or Apartment, Child-Lock Technology 1.1 Cu. Ft, Stainless Steel

The GE Microwave Oven is designed with your convenience in mind. It features a two-step child lock, ensuring young ones can’t accidentally operate the microwave, giving you peace of mind. With its space-saving design and 1.1 cu. ft. capacity, you can enjoy efficient cooking without cluttering your countertop. The straightforward one-touch controls simplify meal preparation, while the weight and time defrost function automatically adjusts the settings for optimal results. This means you can easily defrost food without worrying about timing or power levels, making cooking more convenient for you.

What We Like
Child lock for safety
Compact yet spacious design
Easy one-touch controls
Automatic defrost settings
#TOP 9

Sharp SMC1162KS Countertop Microwave

SMC1162KS
Stainless Steel
1.1 CuFt
Sharp SMC1162KS Countertop Microwave Cover
SHARP SMC1162KS Oven with Removable 12.4" Carousel Turntable, Orville Redenbacher's Certified, Cubic Feet Countertop Microwave, 1.1 CuFt, Stainless Steel

The Sharp Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen appliance with a medium-sized 1.1 cu. ft. capacity and 1000 watts of power. Its stylish design includes a gray interior and a white LED display, making it a modern addition to your countertop. You’ll appreciate the convenience of Orville Redenbacher's certified popcorn presets, ensuring perfectly popped popcorn every time. The 12.4" carousel turntable promotes even cooking, helping you achieve consistent results with your meals. With 10 power levels and a two-stage cooking option, you can easily customize your cooking experience to suit different dishes.

What We Like
Compact design
Even cooking with turntable
Popcorn presets
Customizable power levels
#TOP 10

Farberware Countertop Microwave 1.1 Cu. Ft.

FMWO11AHTBKB
Stainless
1.1 cu. ft.
Farberware Countertop Microwave 1.1 Cu. Ft. Cover
Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts, 1.1 cu ft - Microwave Oven With LED Lighting and Child Lock - Perfect for Apartments and Dorms - Easy Clean Stainless Steel

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
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 703,703 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 $141.10.

The countertop microwave ovens are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of countertop microwave ovens, including TOSHIBA, Panasonic, GE, Farberware, BLACK+DECKER. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 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.