Best Sensor Countertop Microwave Ovens of 2025

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

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Sensor countertop microwave ovens are a popular choice for those who desire convenience and precision in their cooking. These ovens come equipped with advanced sensors that adjust cooking times and power levels based on the food being cooked. This ensures that food is cooked evenly and thoroughly without the need for constant monitoring. Some models even have pre-programmed settings for popular foods like popcorn and pizza. With sleek designs and easy-to-use interfaces, sensor countertop microwave ovens are a great addition to any kitchen.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Panasonic Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology and Genius Sensor Cover #TOP 1
Panasonic Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology and Genius Sensor
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Toshiba EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Oven Cover #TOP 2
Toshiba EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Oven
ftb score rating icon 9.7
TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven Cover #TOP 3
TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Sensor Countertop Microwave Ovens

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
#TOP 2

Toshiba EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Oven

EM131A5C-SS
Stainless Steel
1.2 Cu Ft
Toshiba EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Oven Cover
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior, 1100W, Silver

The Toshiba EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Oven is a stylish and powerful appliance with a 1.2 cubic feet capacity and 1100 watts of power. It features a pre-programmed sensor menu for optimum heating of popular foods, a large digital display, easy-to-read control panel, and a mute function. The stainless steel exterior and removable turntable make it easy to clean and use. It also has an ECO+Mute mode and a kitchen timer.

What We Like
Large digital display and easy-to-read control panel
Pre-programmed sensor menu for optimum heating
Mute function and ECO+Mute mode
Stainless steel exterior and removable turntable
1100 watts of power and 1.2 cubic feet capacity

TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven

ML-EM45P(BS)
1.6 Cu.Ft
TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven Cover
TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable, Function, 1.6 Cu.ft 13.6" Removable Black Stainless Steel, 1200W

Toshiba ML-EM45P(BS) is a 1200-watt high power countertop microwave with 10 power levels, 1.6 cu. ft. capacity, 13.6" turntable, pre-programmed sensor menu, position memory turntable, auto defrost, fast cooking, memory function, multi-stage cooking, child safety lock, clock and kitchen timer, sound on/off function, stylish black stainless-steel finish, and removable turntable. It is perfect for heating popular foods like pizza, potato, vegetable, and more.

What We Like
High power with 10 power levels
Large capacity with 13.6" turntable
Position memory turntable for safer use
Convenience features such as auto defrost, fast cooking, memory function, multi-stage cooking, child safety lock, clock and kitchen timer
Sound on/off function and stylish black stainless-steel finish
#TOP 4

Farberware 1.6 Cu. Ft. Microwave Oven

FMO16AHTPLB
black
Farberware 1.6 Cu. Ft. Microwave Oven Cover
Farberware Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts, 1.6 cu ft - Smart Sensor Microwave Oven With LED Lighting and Child Lock - Perfect for Apartments and Dorms - Easy Clean - Stainless Steel

The Farberware 1.6 Cu. Ft. 1100-Watt Microwave Oven features Smart Sensor Cooking Technology, which monitors the temperature of the food to judge how long it should continue heating. The Inverter Precision Cooking Technology produces even temperatures, consistent textures, prevents overcooking, and preserves nutrients. The Blue LED display, interior LED lighting, and child safety lock function adds convenience and security. Additionally, the 9 one touch cooking programs and Memory function makes it easy to use.

What We Like
Smart Sensor Cooking Technology ensures precise and consistent cooking results.
Inverter Precision Cooking Technology helps preserve nutrients and prevents overcooking.
Blue LED display, interior LED lighting, and child safety lock function adds convenience and security.
#TOP 5

Toshiba Smart Countertop Microwave ML-EM34P(SS)

ML-EM34P(SS)
Stainless Steel
1.3 Cu Ft
Toshiba Smart Countertop Microwave ML-EM34P(SS) Cover
TOSHIBA ML-EM34P(SS) Smart Countertop Microwave, Sensor Reheat, Works With Alexa & Remote Control, Kitchen Essentials, Mute Function&ECO Mode, 1100W, 1.3 Cu Ft, With 12.4" Turntable, Stainless Steel

The Toshiba Smart Microwave is a countertop microwave that integrates with Alexa and allows hands-free operation. With the Alexa app, you can control the microwave with your voice or through the app. The microwave comes with preset menus for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, and vegetables. The built-in humidity sensor automatically adjusts cooking power to achieve optimum heating, making cooking easier. The mute function allows you to turn off the annoying beep when the cook is finished, so you don't have to worry about waking up your family members or roommates. The LED cavity light and energy-saving ECO mode helps reduce energy consumption. The sleek stainless-steel design is timeless and stylish, making it a perfect addition to any kitchen.

What We Like
Hands-free operation
Preset menus
Built-in humidity sensor
Mute function
Energy-saving features
#TOP 6

Panasonic NN-SN97JS Microwave Oven

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

The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN97JS offers powerful 1250 watts and a spacious 2.2 cubic feet capacity, making it perfect for families. Its Cyclonic Wave technology ensures your food is cooked evenly, preserving flavor and nutrients. With patented Inverter Technology, you can enjoy consistent cooking without the worry of overcooking. The advanced Turbo Defrost feature speeds up defrosting, saving you time in meal preparation. Additionally, the built-in smart cooking settings automatically adjust power and time based on what you're cooking, providing convenience and ease for every meal.

What We Like
Even cooking technology
Quick defrosting feature
Spacious interior
Smart cooking settings

Toshiba 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven

ML-EC42P(BS)
Toshiba 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven Cover
Toshiba Air Fryer Combo 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, Smart Sensor, Convection, Mute Function, Position Memory 13.6" Turntable, 1.5 Cu Ft, 1000W, Black, ML-EC42P(BS)

The Toshiba 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines microwave, convection, air fry, and combination cooking functions. It allows for healthy air frying and has pre-programmed sensor menus for optimal cooking results. With a large capacity, stylish black stainless steel finish, and convenience features like position memory, mute function, and speedy cooking, this microwave oven is perfect for families.

What We Like
Versatile 4-in-1 functions
Healthy air fryer combo
Large capacity for family size
Stylish black stainless steel finish
Convenient position memory and mute function
#TOP 8

Samsung MS19DG8500SRAA Microwave

MS19DG8500SRAA
Stainless Steel
Samsung MS19DG8500SRAA Microwave Cover
Samsung 1.9 cu. ft Sensor Cooking, Stainless Steel, MS19DG8500SRAA Countertop Microwave

The Samsung Countertop Microwave is designed to make your cooking experience easier and more efficient. With its sensor cooking feature, this microwave automatically adjusts the cooking time for various foods, ensuring perfect results every time. The large 1.9 cu. ft. capacity allows you to heat up even the biggest dishes with ease. Its ceramic interior is not only scratch-resistant but also makes cleaning a breeze, saving you time and effort. Additionally, the variety of preset cooking options means you can prepare meals quickly, giving you more time to enjoy your food.

What We Like
Automatic cooking time adjustments
Spacious interior capacity
Easy-to-clean ceramic surface
Convenient preset cooking options

Toshiba ML-EM45PIT(SS) 1.6 Cu Ft Microwave Oven

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

The Toshiba ML-EM45PIT(SS) 1.6 Cu Ft Microwave Oven is a sleek and stylish kitchen essential that provides efficient cooking with its Origin Inverter Technology. It features a large 13.6" removable turntable, 6 smart sensor auto menus, quick start button, sound on/off function, and easy-to-use controls. With a bright LCD display and easy-to-read control panel, this microwave oven is perfect for any household. The eco mode, child safety lock, and 1-year limited warranty make it a reliable and safe choice for your kitchen.

What We Like
Efficient Origin Inverter Technology for even heating and defrosting
Large 13.6" removable turntable fits a 12" pizza
6 smart sensor auto menus for optimum heating of popular foods
Bright LCD display and easy-to-read control panel
Eco mode, child safety lock, and 1-year limited warranty for added convenience and safety
#TOP 10

Panasonic Cyclonic Inverter Countertop Microwave Oven

NN-SN76LS
Stainless Steel
Panasonic Cyclonic Inverter Countertop Microwave Oven Cover
Panasonic NN-SN76LS 1.6 cu.ft Cyclonic Inverter Countertop Microwave Oven 1250Watt Power with Genius Sensor Cooking, 19.44"D x 21.88"W x 11.94"H, Stainless Steel

The Panasonic NN-SN76LS 1.6 cu.ft Cyclonic Inverter Countertop Microwave Oven offers even cooking with its patented Cyclonic Wave Inverter technology. With 15 preset smart cooking options, including Genius Sensor and Auto Cook, you can easily microwave fresh and frozen entrees, vegetables, oatmeal, soup, potatoes, pasta, pizza, and rice. It has a smart, compact design that occupies less space for electronics and more for interior capacity. Additionally, the Turbo Defrost and Sensor Reheat enable you to quickly and evenly thaw and reheat foods, while the easy and quick microwave controls include dedicated buttons for Popcorn, Keep Warm, Quick 30, plus features including Child lock, kitchen timer, and 3 stage cooking.

What We Like
Evenly cooks food with Cyclonic Wave Inverter technology
15 preset smart cooking options, including Genius Sensor and Auto Cook
Smart, compact design occupies less space for electronics and more for interior capacity
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is sensor cooking in a microwave worth it?

Because of their high efficiency, sensor microwaves are nearly always worth the investment when you're cooking simple meals or defrosting frozen food.

2. Is sensor microwave better?

Auto sensors on microwaves can provide great results for a variety of foods and cooking applications, though customers report that sensors still tend to work better for some uses than others.

3. What is sensor cooking on a microwave?

Answer: Microwave sensor cooking measures vapor (moisture and humidity) emitted from food as it heats. To use the sensor cook option, press the desired cooking mode. Sensor Reheat can be used to reheat foods. Follow the menu guide on the microwave.

4. What is the difference between sensor and inverter microwave?

The main difference between inverter and conventional microwaves is in the way power is supplied. In a conventional microwave power is supplied through a transformer, which turns the power on and off (you'll usually hear the microwave cutting in and out), giving the food a chance to distribute heat.

Editor's Notes

During our sensor countertop microwave oven research, we found 16 sensor countertop microwave oven products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 366,166 customer reviews through our big data system to write the sensor countertop microwave ovens list. We found that most customers choose sensor countertop microwave ovens with an average price of $176.16.

The sensor countertop microwave ovens are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of sensor countertop microwave ovens, including Panasonic, TOSHIBA, Farberware, SAMSUNG. 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.