Best Dial Control Microwave Ovens of 2025

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 5, 2025

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Dial control microwave ovens are a popular choice for those who prefer a more traditional approach to cooking. Unlike digital models, these microwaves feature simple and easy-to-use dials that allow users to adjust cooking time and power levels with precision. They also often have a classic design that can complement any kitchen decor. Many dial control microwaves come with preset cooking programs for popular foods such as popcorn, pizza, and vegetables, making meal preparation even easier. In addition, these microwaves tend to be more affordable than their digital counterparts, making them a great choice for those on a budget.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Commercial Chef CHM660 Counter Top Microwave Cover #TOP 1
Commercial Chef CHM660 Counter Top Microwave
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Commercial Chef 0.9 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave, Black Cover #TOP 2
Commercial Chef 0.9 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave, Black
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Panasonic Compact Commercial Microwave Oven Cover #TOP 3
Panasonic Compact Commercial Microwave Oven
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Dial Control Microwave Ovens

#TOP 1

Commercial Chef CHM660 Counter Top Microwave

CHM660W
White
0.6 Cubic Feet
Commercial Chef CHM660 Counter Top Microwave Cover
COMMERCIAL CHEF 0.6 Cubic Foot Microwave with 6 Power Levels, Small Microwave with Grip Handle, 700W Countertop Microwave with 30 Minute Timer and Mechanical Dial Controls, White

The Commercial Chef CHM660 is a great choice for small kitchens with limited countertop space. This small microwave is easy to operate with mechanical dials that control 6 cooking power levels and timer. With up to 600 watts of power and 6 cooking levels, this microwave is suitable for a variety of cooking tasks, including reheating leftovers, defrosting veggies, and preparing frozen dinners. The simple dial offers timing intervals between 1 to 30 minutes, and the removable 9.5" glass turntable is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.

What We Like
Compact design, ideal for small living spaces
Easy-to-use mechanical dials for simple operation
Up to 600 watts of power and 6 cooking levels for versatile cooking tasks
#TOP 2

Commercial Chef 0.9 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave, Black

CHMH900B6C
Black, Mechanical
0.9 Cubic Feet
Commercial Chef 0.9 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave, Black Cover
COMMERCIAL CHEF Rotary Dial Microwave with 6 Power Levels, Small Microwave with Pull Handle, 900W Countertop Microwave with Kitchen Timer, Microwave 0.9 Cu Ft with Rotary Dial Controls, Black

The Commercial Chef CHMH900B6C 0.9 Cubic Foot Countertop Microwave features an elegant design, six power levels to customize cooking, a 30-minute timer for safety, and mechanical dial controls that are simple and easy to use. Its compact size makes it perfect for small apartments and dorms, and the defrost function ensures even cooking. Enjoy quick and easy meal preparation with this innovative microwave.

What We Like
Elegant and minimalist design
Customizable cooking with six power levels
30-minute timer for safety
Simple and easy to use mechanical dial controls
Compact size ideal for small living spaces
#TOP 3

Panasonic Compact Commercial Microwave Oven

NE-1025F
Silver
1000 Watt - Dial
Panasonic Compact Commercial Microwave Oven Cover
Panasonic NE-1025F Compact Light-Duty Countertop Commercial Microwave Oven with 6-Minute Electronic Dial Control Timer, Bottom Energy Feed, 1000W, 0.8 Cu. Ft. Capacity Silver

The Panasonic NE-1025F is a compact commercial microwave oven with a bottom energy feed system that provides efficient heating of a variety of items, making it ideal for vending, break rooms, and small kitchens. It has a 6-minute electronic dial timer and a grab-and-go handle on the stainless steel door. The oven is equipped with a see-through door, interior light, and anti-theft component, while its compact design saves space on a countertop or table.

What We Like
Efficient bottom energy feed system
User-friendly 6-minute electronic dial timer
Compact design saves space
#TOP 4

Commercial Chef Countertop Microwave Oven

CHM660B
Black
0.6 Cubic Feet
Commercial Chef Countertop Microwave Oven Cover
COMMERCIAL CHEF 0.6 Cubic Foot Microwave with 6 Power Levels, Small Microwave with Grip Handle, 700W Countertop Microwave with 30 Minute Timer and Mechanical Dial Controls, Black

The Commercial Chef Microwave is a compact and durable mini microwave oven designed for your kitchen countertop. With its easy to grasp grip type handle, it is convenient to open and close. The mechanical, rotary dial controls make it simple and easy to use, perfect for those seeking basic operation. This microwave oven is great for preparing snacks, heating up last night's leftovers, or food preparation. It also includes Speed and Weight defrost features, allowing for multiple uses in the kitchen. The black front display and cabinet add a sleek and modern touch to your kitchen decor.

What We Like
Compact size
Durable construction
Easy to use
Speed defrost
Weight defrost
#TOP 5

Midea 1025F0A Commercial Microwave Oven

1025F0A
Stainless Steel
.9 cu ft
Midea 1025F0A Commercial Microwave Oven Cover
Midea Equipment 1025F0A Countertop Commercial Microwave Oven with Dial, 1000W, Stainless Steel.9 CuFt

The Midea 1025F0A Commercial Microwave Oven is designed to withstand the demands of the commercial food service environment with its stainless steel cabinet and oven cavity. Its medium capacity of 0.9 cu. ft. can accommodate a 12'' platter and has an oven cavity light for easy monitoring of cooking status without opening the door. The easy-to-control 6 minute electronic dial timer with illuminated digits and “Auto Reset” feature allows for simple operation. Additionally, the on-door menu guide for frequently used items and reference makes cooking even more convenient.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel construction
Medium capacity can accommodate a 12'' platter
Easy-to-control electronic dial timer with illuminated digits and “Auto Reset” feature
#TOP 6

Avanti MM07V1B Compact Microwave Oven

MM07V1B
Black
0.7 cu ft
Avanti MM07V1B Compact Microwave Oven Cover
Avanti MM07V1B Microwave Oven 700-Watts Compact Mechanical with 5 Power Settings, Defrost, Full Range Temperature Control and Glass Turntable, 0.7 cu ft, Black

The Avanti Compact Microwave is a versatile kitchen appliance perfect for small spaces like your home or office. With 0.7 cubic feet of capacity, it fits neatly on countertops while still providing ample cooking space. You can easily control the microwave using simple dials that allow you to choose from five power levels and a defrost function, making meal prep a breeze. The 700 watts of cooking power ensure your food heats quickly and efficiently, while the rotating glass turntable promotes even cooking for delicious results every time. Plus, the push button door release makes opening the microwave hassle-free.

What We Like
Compact design
Easy-to-use dials
Even cooking with turntable
Quick defrost function
#TOP 7

Panasonic Smart Inverter Countertop Microwave Oven

NN-SV79MS
Stainless Steel
1.4 cu.ft.
Panasonic Smart Inverter Countertop Microwave Oven Cover
Panasonic NN-SV79MS 1.4 cu.ft Smart Inverter Works with Alexa Countertop Microwave Oven 1200Watt Power with Genius Sensor Cooking, Stainless Steel

The Panasonic NN-SV79MS is a 1.4 cu.ft countertop microwave oven that works with Alexa, featuring over 100 voice commands and a Genius Sensor for precise cooking. Using Inverter technology, it cooks food evenly from edges to center at every power level, and comes with Turbo Defrost, 20 preset menu items, delay start, quick 30-Sec and popcorn button. The microwave is easy to set up, and comes with a sleek stainless steel face with dial control plus a spacious interior.

What We Like
Precise cooking with Genius Sensor and Inverter technology
Easy setup with Alexa app and 2D bar code
Multiple cooking features, including Turbo Defrost and preset menu items
Sleek design with stainless steel face and spacious interior
#TOP 8

Gold Bell Co. Solwave Microwave

Gold Bell Co.
stainless steel
Gold Bell Co. Solwave Microwave Cover
Gold Bell Co. Solwave 1000W Stackable Commercial Microwave with Large 1.2 cu. ft. Interior and Dial Controls - 120V

The Gold Bell Microwave boasts a stylish stainless steel exterior that is both durable and easy to maintain, making it perfect for any kitchen setup. Its spacious 1.2 cu. ft. interior is ideal for warming a variety of foods, including large platters up to 14 inches wide. With a convenient see-through door, you can easily monitor your food without interrupting the heating process. Additionally, user-friendly dial controls allow you to select from four power levels and set a timer effortlessly, ensuring your meals are heated just right every time.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel design
Spacious interior capacity
Convenient see-through door
User-friendly dial controls
#TOP 9

Impecca Retro Microwave Oven

CM-0770W
White
Impecca Retro Microwave Oven Cover
IMPECCA Countertop Microwave Oven Retro Mechanical Dials 5 Modes Timer Defrost 0.7 Cu 700W 9.65” Turntable Easy Clean

The Impecca Retro Microwave offers a user-friendly experience with its 30-minute cooking timer, allowing you to easily set the time for your meals without constant checking. It features five adjustable power levels, giving you the flexibility to cook everything from delicate defrosting to hearty meals just the way you like them. The quick defrost function saves you time, preparing frozen ingredients for cooking when you need them. Plus, the clear cooking complete ringer ensures you know exactly when your meal is ready, taking the guesswork out of cooking.

What We Like
User-friendly mechanical controls
Five power levels for versatility
Quick defrost function
Clear cooking ringer
#TOP 10

Panasonic NN-SD975S Microwave Oven

NN-SD975S
Stainless
NN-SD975S
Panasonic NN-SD975S Microwave Oven Cover
Panasonic Oven with Cyclonic Wave Inverter Technology, 1250W, 2.2 cu.ft. Countertop Microwave with Genius Sensor One-Touch Cooking – NN-SD975S (Stainless Steel/Silver), Stainless

The Panasonic Microwave Oven is designed to enhance your cooking experience with its advanced Cyclonic Inverter Technology, which ensures that heat is evenly distributed for perfectly cooked meals. With simple controls, you can easily access 20 preset cooking options, making meal prep a breeze. The Sensor Cook and Reheat functions eliminate the need for guessing cooking times, allowing you to reheat or cook with confidence. Additionally, the Sensor Inverter Turbo Defrost feature quickly thaws food evenly, while the Keep Warm function ensures your dishes are ready to serve at the right temperature.

What We Like
Even cooking results
Easy preset options
Quick defrosting
Keep warm feature
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do you use microwave dials?

To use microwave dials, you can set the initial time in 15-second increments. Once the microwave starts running, turning the dial will change the time by 5 seconds (clockwise increases, counterclockwise decreases). For example, if you want to heat something for 20 seconds, set the dial to 15 seconds.

2. Can I use my over-the-range microwave on the counter?

Over-the-range microwave ovens are not designed to be used on a counter or shelf. They are specifically designed to be installed above the range or cooktop and have a built-in ventilation system to eliminate smoke, steam, and cooking odors.

3. Is there a smart microwave?

Yes, smart microwaves are available. These microwaves have all the functionalities of a traditional microwave oven, but with additional features. They can be controlled through smartphone apps and even accept voice commands through virtual assistants like Amazon Alexa.

4. What controls a microwave oven?

Microwave ovens have a sensor that controls the heat generated for cooking. Once the food reaches the desired temperature set on the control panel, the magnetron stops generating microwaves. When the temperature drops below the desired range, the magnetron resumes working.

5. What are the different settings on a microwave?

Microwaves have various settings, including: - Defrost Setting: Thaws frozen food - Convection Setting: Uses oven-like heating elements and a fan for even cooking - Soften/Melt Setting: Gently softens or melts ingredients - Steam Setting: Allows for steaming food - Crisp Setting: Creates crispy textures

6. What are the numbers on a microwave for?

The numbers on a microwave represent the power levels. Each power level corresponds to the microwave energy provided for a certain percentage of time. For example, power level 7 provides microwave energy 70% of the time, while power level 3 provides energy 30% of the time. Most cooking is done on high power, which is 100% power.

7. What is the difference between countertop and over-the-range microwave?

Countertop microwaves are designed to be placed on a countertop, while over-the-range microwaves are installed above the range or cooktop. Over-the-range microwaves function like countertop microwaves but also have a built-in ventilation system to eliminate smoke, steam, and cooking odors.

8. Which is better, countertop or over-the-range microwave?

The choice between a countertop and over-the-range microwave depends on your preferences and kitchen space. If you have limited counter space or want to centralize your cooking appliances, an over-the-range microwave could be a good option. They also come with built-in filters to reduce odors and clear the air.

9. Is a smart microwave worth it?

Smart microwaves offer hands-free operation and precise settings, making them convenient to use. They can be controlled through smartphone apps and even accept voice commands through virtual assistants like Amazon Alexa. If you value these features and the ability to adjust controls remotely, a smart microwave can be a worthwhile investment.

10. How is microwave power controlled?

Most microwaves cannot adjust their power output. The power setting in microwaves simply turns the microwave generator (magnetron) on and off in cycles. For example, a power setting of 0.5 for 10 minutes would cycle the magnetron on and off every few seconds, with a total on time of 5 minutes.

Editor's Notes

During our dial control microwave oven research, we found 16 dial control microwave oven products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 42,930 customer reviews through our big data system to write the dial control microwave ovens list. We found that most customers choose dial control microwave ovens with an average price of $209.03.

The dial control microwave ovens are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of dial control microwave ovens, including Commercial CHEF, Panasonic, Midea, Avanti, Gold Bell Co.. 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.