It’s not always convenient or practical to cook food using a traditional oven or stovetop, especially for those constantly strapped for time. The microwave oven is at the top of the list if you’re looking for the fastest way to cook or heat food.
There are many brands of microwave ovens, but how do you know which ones are at the top of their class? We provide an overview of the best microwave brands and the features you should look for to ensure you’re getting a quality appliance. Plus, we rounded up the top countertop microwaves and over-the-range microwaves for you to consider.
Panasonic is a well-known brand for its electronics, such as TVs, but it also manufactures some of the best microwave ovens. Panasonic microwaves often have a durable build, offer several features and are available in many sizes.
Like Panasonic, Toshiba is a top electronics brand and makes many high-end kitchen appliances. In terms of durability, Toshiba microwaves can last several years, and most models have key features such as preset cooking modes and multiple power levels.
Black + Decker is a well-known kitchen appliance brand known for its compact and sleek microwaves. Although there are some larger units, most Black + Decker microwaves are standard countertop ovens.
Since many electronics companies began manufacturing kitchen appliances, GE has become less popular than it once was. However, it is still a trusted brand that makes plenty of excellent and affordable GE microwaves.
Magic Chef isn’t as recognizable as some other brands mentioned here, but it focuses primarily on making quality kitchen appliances. Magic Chef microwaves are available in several sizes and are an excellent choice for anyone working with a limited budget.
Farberware is a reputable brand that produces high-quality appliances and cookware. Farberware products are durable and backed by reliable warranties and customer service. They’re middle of the pack in terms of pricing, but some larger Farberware microwaves can cost $300 to $400.
Panasonic NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave Oven
A 1,200-watt microwave is perfect for everyday use, making this model an excellent buy for the average consumer. This Panasonic microwave oven has a 1.2-cubic-foot capacity and smart cooking settings. It has a sensor that automatically adjusts time and temperature for different foods. It also uses Inverter technology to heat food evenly.
Toshiba EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Oven
With a stylish appearance and a large interior, this Toshiba microwave is perfect for large households. It has a 1.2-cubic-foot stainless steel interior, a pre-programmed sensor menu and 10 power settings. The digital control panel has a keypad for entering precise cooking times.
Black + Decker Digital Microwave Oven
This small countertop microwave operates at 900 watts, with 10 power settings and 30-second express cooking. The 0.9-cubic-foot Black + Decker microwave also has multiple pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, frozen vegetables and more. It has an LED with an easy-to-use control panel, a push-button for easy access, a removable 10.6-inch turntable and an interior light.
Toshiba ML-EM34P(SS) Smart Countertop Microwave
If you're looking for an advanced microwave with all the bells and whistles, this model is the one to get. You can sync this smart microwave with Alexa for hands-free operation. It features a roomy 1.3-cubic-foot interior, preset menus and an energy-saving mode. A built-in humidity sensor automatically adjusts cooking time for optimal results. By utilizing the mute function, you won't wake up others in the house if you want to make a midnight snack. This microwave operates at 1,100 watts.
Black + Decker 1.6-Cubic-Foot Over-The-Range Microwave
With a 29.9-inch width and a 1-cubic-foot interior, this over-the-range microwave is suitable for medium or large kitchen spaces. It has a clean white finish, a bright LED display and 10 cooking power levels. Plus, it comes with a mounting bracket.
Toshiba EM925A5A-SS Countertop Microwave Oven
Those with limited counter space will love this small microwave for its 0.9-cubic-foot capacity and 900-watt power output. It has pre-programmed menus for foods like popcorn and pizza and a one-touch start function for heating at full power for up to six minutes.
Farberware Classic Countertop Microwave Oven
This countertop microwave has a classic design with a door handle for easy access and a generous 1.1 cubic-foot cooking capacity. It has 10 power levels, a memory function that stores your preferred cooking settings and express cook buttons that range from one to six minutes.
Magic Chef Black 1.1 Cubic-Foot Countertop Microwave Oven
This all-black Magic Chef microwave offers a 1,000-watt power output and eight one-touch cooking modes for quickly heating popular foods, such as pizza, popcorn and more. It has electronic controls, an LED display and a memory function to keep track of your preferred cooking settings.
GE 3-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
If you want more versatility from your microwave, this model offers multiple cooking functions, including air fry, broil and convection modes. This GE microwave has a compact 1-cubic-foot design and preset controls for popular foods, including popcorn and chicken tenders.
This over-the-range microwave with a spacious 1.9-cubic-foot capacity has a modern stainless steel design and an enamel interior that’s easy to clean. It offers four fan speed settings, electronic controls with a graphic display and 10 cooking levels for broiling, defrosting and reheating.
Farberware 0.7-Cubic-Foot Countertop Microwave
This budget-friendly 0.7-cubic-foot microwave is perfect for dorm rooms and other small spaces. The 700-watt microwave has 10 power levels and six preset cooking options, including popcorn and defrost. The exterior and interior are easy to clean.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.
