Best Dial Control Microwave Ovens of 2026
* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
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
Top 10 Dial Control Microwave Ovens
Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700W Microwave Oven
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.
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven
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.
COMFEE' EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven
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.
TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA Small Microwave Oven
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.
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven
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.
Farberware Countertop Microwave 1.1 Cu. Ft.
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.
Chefman 0.9 Cu. Ft. 900W Microwave
The Chefman Compact Microwave offers quick and easy cooking with six preset options like popcorn, pizza, and veggies, making meal prep simple for you. Its 900-watt power lets you choose from 10 power levels, so you can gently melt butter or heat food rapidly depending on your needs. The digital controls are user-friendly, allowing you to set cooking time and power precisely, or add extra time with a single button. Plus, the memory function lets you save your favorite settings, so you can start cooking your go-to meals with just one touch. This microwave is designed to make your kitchen routine faster and more convenient.
GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
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.
BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven
The BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven features pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate. It has 900 Watts with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 seconds express cooking. The large LED digital display is easy to read and the control panel is easy to use. The child safety lock ensures safety while the push-button door release provides easy access. It comes with a removable 10.6” glass turntable. The microwave oven has dimensions of 19.1” x 14.8” x 11.5” (W x D x H) and internal dimensions of 12.36” x 13.66” x 8.70” (W x D x H). The door frame is stainless steel while the enclosure is black.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven
The Chefman Microwave is a sleek and modern countertop microwave oven that will instantly upgrade your kitchen space. With 6 express cook presets, including popcorn, potato, pizza, veggies, beverages, and leftovers, you can easily prepare your favorite meals with the touch of a button. The 1000 watts of power and 10 power levels allow you to heat, defrost, and cook a variety of foods. The convenient memory function allows you to save frequently used settings for quick and easy cooking. Plus, the mute function enables quieter cooking, perfect for apartments or dorms. With its energy-efficient eco mode and child safety lock, the Chefman Microwave offers both convenience and peace of mind.
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.
During our dial control microwave oven research, we found 16 dial control microwave oven products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 712,122 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 $116.71.
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 Chefman, TOSHIBA, COMFEE', BLACK+DECKER, Farberware. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
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.