11 Best-Rated Microwave Ovens for Quality in 2025 That Will Transform Your Kitchen
As you look to upgrade your kitchen, choosing the right microwave matters. The 2025 models include features like inverter technology, multiple cooking options, and sleek designs that fit well in modern kitchens.
Picking the best microwave can improve your cooking and make meal prep easier. Want to see which models stand out and how to pick the right one? Keep reading to find the top options.
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu Ft
- 6 PRE-PROGRAMMED AUTO MENUS: popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and dinner plates. Perfectly cook your favorite foods, saving your time while...
- 10 ADJUSTABLE POWER SETTINGS: Experience the ultimate versatility in your kitchen with 10 adjustable power settings that cater to all your culinary needs....
- ONE TOUCH START: With just a single press, you can effortlessly begin cooking or reheating your favorite meals. No more complicated settings – this feature...
The BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven has a capacity of 0.9 cubic feet. It is a compact model suitable for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or shared spaces. The microwave measures 10.7 inches high, 18.6 inches wide, and 13.2 inches deep. Its stainless steel finish adds a modern look. The 900-watt power provides quick heating for meals and snacks. It features six auto menus and ten adjustable power levels to make cooking easy. The digital controls and one-touch start simplify operation. The child safety lock helps keep children safe. This microwave is a good choice for small households or anyone who needs simple, fast heating.
Best For: small kitchens, students, or people who want a simple microwave for quick tasks.
Pros:
- Small size fits easily in tight spaces
- Easy-to-use digital controls and one-touch start
- Multiple auto menus and power levels for versatile cooking
Cons:
- Can be loud during operation
- Child safety lock may be tricky to turn off
- Limited capacity works best for small dishes and snacks
TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Microwave Oven
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to...
- 8-in-1 Multifuntional Microwave One microwave with multi-functions of microwave, air fry, bake(convection), broil (grill), combi., low temp., odor removal,...
- Healthy Air Fryer Microwave Combo: Enjoy your wholesome fried food with original taste but less fat with healthy air fry.
If you want a multi-purpose countertop appliance, the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Microwave Oven is a good option. It combines microwave, air fryer, convection, broil, low-temp cooking, odor removal, defrosting, and combo modes in one device. The 1000-watt power and large interior make it easy to cook big items like a whole chicken or a large casserole. Its black stainless steel design looks modern and fits well in most kitchens. Features like one-touch buttons, multistage cooking, and a turntable make it simple to use. Some users say the buttons are stiff and need extra effort. The interior lighting could be better, and there are occasional reports of noise or delivery damage.
This appliance is best for those who want a space-saving device that can handle many cooking tasks quickly and easily. Its straightforward functions help streamline meal prep and make cooking more convenient.
Farberware Countertop Microwave 900W, 0.9Cu Ft
- CONVENIENT MICROWAVE: Prepare quick and easy meals in a snap with our powerful microwave. It packs 900 of output power and features a range of settings for...
- POWERFUL SETTINGS: This microwave has ten power levels with multi-stage cooking. You can fully customize your cooking with six one-touch options, including...
- PERFECT SIZE: Measuring 0.9 cu ft, this microwave is the ideal small-space solution that offers full-sized cooking in a compact space. It features an...
The Farberware Countertop Microwave 900W is a compact appliance built for small spaces like apartments and dorms. It offers 0.9 cubic feet of interior space, enough for everyday cooking needs. The stainless steel exterior is easy to wipe clean, and the LED display makes setting the microwave simple and fast. It has ten power levels, allowing you to adjust cooking intensity for different foods. The microwave features six one-touch buttons for common tasks, such as popcorn and pizza, making meal prep easy. It also includes defrost settings, interior lighting, and a child safety lock to keep everyone safe. Its straightforward interface and reliable operation make it a popular choice for those who want a dependable, space-saving microwave.
Best For: People living in small spaces who need a compact microwave with versatile cooking options.
Pros:
- Easy to clean stainless steel exterior
- Simple LED display for quick programming
- Multiple cooking options, including ten power levels and six one-touch buttons
- Compact size fits well on limited countertops
- Interior light helps monitor cooking progress
Cons:
- Some users find the button layout confusing
- Noise during operation may be noticeable
- Interior space may be small for larger meals
BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry
- 5-in-1 Microwave Oven: Use this essential countertop appliance for cooking in five functions: microwave, air fryer, combi (grill/convection), bake, and roast...
- 10 Cooking Levels: Featuring a 900-watt output, this compact microwave has 7 auto menus, including settings for Beverage, Fresh/Frozen Vegetables, Oatmeal,...
- Air Fry Presets: This small-but-mighty microwave has 11 preset air fry menus, including for cooking frozen French fries, steak fries, squid rings, chicken...
The BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry provides a flexible cooking tool for small kitchens. It combines microwave, air fryer, grill/convection, bake, and roast functions in a sleek 0.9 cu. ft. stainless steel body. With 900 watts of power and 11 preset air fry menus, it cooks food quickly and easily. The one-touch start button makes everyday use simple, while the child-lock feature keeps children safe. Its compact size fits full-sized plates comfortably, saving space in tight kitchens. Some users note that the control panel buttons are small and harder to see, especially in low light. Others mention that the microwave can slide on counters because of limited supports. Additionally, it can be noisier than expected, producing a buzzing sound during operation. Despite these points, its multiple functions make it a popular choice for those who want a versatile, space-saving kitchen appliance.
Best For: People who need a multi-function, space-efficient appliance that combines microwave, air frying, baking, and roasting in a single device.
Pros:
- Combines several cooking functions in one unit, reducing kitchen clutter
- Easy to operate with a one-touch start button and preset air fry options
- Features a stylish stainless steel finish that fits modern kitchens
Cons:
- Small control panel buttons can be hard to see and use
- Can slide on countertops if not placed on stable supports
- Slightly louder operation with a buzzing noise during use
GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fryer
- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This mandatory feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, with the option to deactivate it if not needed.
- AIR FRY MODE: Cook healthier, crispier versions of your favorite foods in less time, thanks to an air fryer built into your microwave.
- CONVECTION MODE: Achieve crisp, golden brown results in this microwave oven with convection, which includes a special rack that allows air to circulate around...
The GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fryer is a good choice for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or spaces where you need versatile cooking options. Its size measures 16.6 by 20.6 by 11.88 inches, so it fits easily on countertops. With 1,050 watts of power, it can microwave, air fry, bake, and broil. This makes meal preparation quick and simple. The stainless steel exterior looks clean and modern. Safety features like a child-lock help protect your family. Some buttons may be hard to see or reach, but users like its multiple functions, dependable performance, and ability to make healthier, crispy foods fast.
Best For: people with limited kitchen space, students in dorms, or anyone who wants a small, versatile appliance for quick, healthy meals.
Pros:
- Combines microwave, air fryer, convection oven, and broiler in one device
- Compact size fits small kitchens and dorm rooms
- Easy to clean and has a sleek stainless steel look
Cons:
- Some buttons and controls are hard to read or access
- Stainless steel interior can be difficult to keep clean
- No printed manual included; users may need to download instructions
Panasonic NN-SU696S Microwave Oven, 1.3 Cft, Stainless Steel/Silver
- Power plus innovation 1100 watts of high power for fast, even cooking and delicious results
- Microwave controls 7 preset auto cook menu items, 13.4 inch turntable; delay start and timer; more/less control; Child safety lock; quick 30 seconds and popcorn...
- Minimum countertop footprint smart, compact design devotes less space to electronics and far more interior capacity. up to eight pounds lighter than...
The Panasonic NN-SU696S Microwave Oven features a spacious 1.3 cubic foot interior. It delivers 1100 watts of power, ensuring fast and even cooking. Its compact size saves counter space while providing ample room inside for various foods. The oven offers seven preset auto-cook menus for quick operation. Its 13.4-inch turntable makes it easy to handle larger dishes. The microwave includes a delay start function and a keep-warm option for convenience. The large digital display and simple clock setting make it easy to use. It operates quietly and has smooth turntable movement for a better experience. Some users find the buttons require precise pressing, which can be frustrating. There are reports of the microwave’s heating efficiency decreasing over time and safety concerns. A few customers experienced issues with door noise or the interior light. Overall, this model provides reliable speed and even heating. It is a practical choice for busy households needing a spacious, powerful microwave with user-friendly features and a compact design.
Best For: households that want a large, powerful microwave with easy-to-use features in a small space.
Pros:
- 1.3 cu ft capacity for large or multiple dishes
- 1100-watt power for quick, even cooking
- Simple controls, preset menus, and a large display
Cons:
- Buttons can be hard to press precisely
- Heating performance may decline over time
- Some safety and customer service issues reported
Panasonic NN-SN98JS Microwave Oven Countertop, 2.2 cft, Stainless Steel
- Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN98JS Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In with Inverter Technology and Genius Sensor, 2.2 Cubic Foot, 1250W
- Panasonic Countertop Microwave Oven with Cyclonic Inverter: This 1250-Watt high power, 2. 2-cubic-foot capacity stainless steel countertop/built-in microwave...
- Inverter Technology With Turbo Defrost: Enjoy your foods heated consistently and evenly without overcooking thanks to patented Cyclonic Inverter Technology,...
If you need a large microwave that heats food quickly and evenly, the Panasonic NN-SN98JS is a good option. It has 2.2 cubic feet of space inside and a 1250-watt inverter. This technology heats food efficiently and keeps nutrients intact. The Cyclonic Inverter Technology provides consistent warmth, and the Turbo Defrost feature speeds up thawing. The microwave has a 16.5-inch turntable that fits big meals easily. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks modern and fits well in many kitchens. Features like smart cooking settings, automatic sensors, and a child safety lock make it easy and safe to use. Overall, this microwave offers reliable performance, large capacity, and advanced features for busy kitchens.
Best For: families or households that want a spacious and powerful microwave with even heating and useful features.
Pros:
- Large 2.2 cubic feet space for big meals and family use
- Cyclonic Inverter Technology provides consistent, even heating and helps keep food nutrients
- Stainless steel design looks modern and stylish
Cons:
- Higher price, especially if you buy the optional built-in trim kit
- Some users find the child safety lock and electronic controls hard to understand and use
- Limited visibility during cooking may make it harder to monitor food progress
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft. (900W)
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press...
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 900W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to...
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or...
Looking for a compact and stylish microwave that fits well in small kitchens? The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven offers a simple design with a 0.9 cubic foot capacity and 900 watts of power. Its sleek black exterior looks good in any space and measures 13.27 x 18.9 x 11.52 inches, making it easy to place on your countertop. The microwave features a glass turntable, interior light, and a sturdy handle for easy use. It has 10 power levels and six preset options, including popcorn, pizza, and vegetables. The digital touch controls make it easy to operate, and safety features like a child lock and mute button ensure quiet, safe use. Eco mode helps save energy, making it practical for daily use.
Best For: Small kitchens that need a compact, stylish microwave for everyday heating and reheating.
Pros:
- Modern black design that matches many kitchens
- Small size and lightweight for easy placement
- Preset options, digital controls, and energy-saving mode for convenience
Cons:
- Fewer power levels may need some attention for precise cooking
- Crisp function may not keep texture as well as traditional ovens
- Limited instructions might require some trial and error for new users
Toshiba Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor and 16.5″ Turntable
- 【Large Capacity】2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity countertop microwave with 1200W power is perfect for large families. It can easily accommodate a 16-inch pizza and a...
- 【Intuitive Humidity Sensor】The built-in humidity sensor with 6 Automatic Preset Menus gives your food an even heating result and seals the moisture inside...
- 【6 Auto Menus】Equipped with 6 menus that fits your most daily needs including: bacon, frozen roll/muffin-reheat, beverage, chicken pieces and oatmeal.
For those who need a large and powerful microwave, the Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) is a top choice in 2025. It offers a spacious 2.2 cubic feet of interior space and a 16.5-inch turntable. This size easily fits big dishes like a 16-inch pizza or a whole chicken. The microwave has 1200 watts of power and a smart humidity sensor. These features help ensure food heats evenly and stays moist. It includes six automatic preset menus, auto-defrost, and multi-stage cooking to make meal prep simple. Its sleek stainless steel design, large digital display, and child safety lock add to its user-friendly features.
Best For: families and individuals who want a large, powerful microwave with advanced features to handle big meals easily.
Pros:
- Large 2.2 cu. ft. capacity fits big meals like whole chickens and large pizzas
- 1200W power and humidity sensor for even heating and moisture retention
- Easy-to-use features such as automatic presets, auto-defrost, multi-stage cooking, and child safety lock
Cons:
- The beeper sound is soft and may be hard to hear for some users
- Control panel could be clearer with backlit buttons for low-light use
- Its size may take up more space on smaller countertops
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Turntable, 1.1 CuFt, 1000W
- Medium-sized 1.1 cu. ft. capacity, 1000 watts, Black/White
- New! Cooking platform and stylish design; New! Gray Interior; New! White LED Display; New! LED Interior Lighting
- 12.4" Carousel turntable for even cooking; 10 Power Levels with 2-stage cooking
The SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Turntable combines power and capacity, making it a good choice for busy households. It features 1.1 cubic feet of space and a 12.4-inch turntable to fit larger dishes easily. With 1000 watts of power, it heats food quickly and evenly. The microwave includes helpful features like auto cook, weight and time defrost, and a +30 seconds quick start for simple meal preparation. Its gray interior, white LED display, and removable turntable make cleaning straightforward. The microwave offers 10 power levels and an express cook option, giving you flexible cooking choices for everyday use.
Best For: Busy households and individuals who want a reliable, powerful microwave with versatile cooking functions and easy maintenance.
Pros:
- 1000-watt power for fast, even heating
- Spacious 1.1 cu ft capacity with a 12.4-inch turntable for larger dishes
- Features like auto cook, defrost, and quick start for convenience
Cons:
- Slightly larger size may need more counter space
- Limited color options, mainly gray interior
- May cost more than basic microwave models
Midea Flexify French Door Toaster Oven Air Fryer Combo
- Cyclone Air Fryer: Enjoy 25% faster cooking and 90% less oil compared to traditional fryers, . This all-in-one combo features VDE-certified heat evenness with...
- Versatile 10 Functions: Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Toast, Pizza, Reheat, Slow Cook, Dehydrate, and Warm. Prepare your family meal in a more flexible way.
- Large Capacity: 26.4 QT French door air fryer toaster oven combo, perfectly fits one 12-inch pizza, up to 6 slices of toast, or 14 juicy chicken wings, making...
The Midea Flexify French Door Toaster Oven Air Fryer Combo is a versatile and spacious kitchen appliance. It has a 26.4-quart capacity, which can hold a 12-inch pizza or six slices of toast easily. The oven offers 10 functions, including air fry, bake, roast, and dehydrate, giving you many cooking options in one device. Its Cyclone Air Fryer technology cooks food 25% faster and uses 90% less oil, making meals healthier. The stainless steel exterior, double French doors, and large LED display add style and practicality to your kitchen.
Best For: Home cooks and families who want a high-capacity oven with fast, healthy cooking options.
Pros:
- Ten cooking functions in one appliance
- Large 26.4 QT capacity fits big meals or multiple servings
- Cyclone Air Fryer technology speeds up cooking and reduces oil use
Cons:
- The exterior can get hot during use
- The size is large and may need ample counter space
- Some users find it necessary to position accessories carefully for best results
Factors to Consider When Choosing the 9 Best-Rated Microwave Ovens for Quality in 2025
When choosing a microwave oven, focus on power and performance to ensure even cooking. Pick a size that fits your space and meets your needs. Check safety features to protect users. Choose a model that is easy to operate for convenience. Consider the design to match your kitchen style. These factors help you find a microwave that works well and makes cooking easier.
Power and Performance
Choosing a microwave with the right power and performance features makes cooking easier and more even. Higher wattage models heat food faster and reduce hot spots. Power levels, which can be set from 1 to 10 or more, help you control cooking strength precisely. Inverter technology keeps power steady, ensuring consistent heating and better food texture. Features like sensor cooking and auto defrost adjust cooking time and power based on food moisture and type. The best microwaves respond quickly, work reliably, and heat food evenly across different functions. This makes your cooking faster, simpler, and more consistent.
Size and Capacity
Choosing the right microwave size depends on your space, cooking habits, and household size. Small models, around 0.9 cubic feet, work well on limited counters or for single users. Larger units over 2.2 cubic feet suit big families or those who cook larger dishes often. Check internal dimensions like turntable diameter and interior height to make sure your favorite dishes fit. An undersized microwave limits your cooking options and makes it hard to reheat big items. A microwave that is too large can waste space without offering extra benefits. To find the right size, balance your space, meal sizes, and need for versatility. This will help improve your daily cooking experience.
Safety Features
Safety features are vital for your microwave to operate safely and reduce risks. Child safety locks and control panel locks stop the microwave from turning on by accident, especially if kids are nearby. Automatic shut-off functions turn off the microwave if it overheats or when the cooking time ends, helping prevent fires. Door interlock mechanisms ensure the microwave only runs when the door is fully closed, protecting you from microwave exposure. Safety sensors detect problems or unsafe conditions and pause or turn off the microwave to avoid damage or injury. Clear labels and easy-to-use controls make it simple to activate safety features quickly. Including these safety features helps keep your kitchen safe while enjoying the convenience of your microwave.
Ease of Use
When choosing a microwave oven for ease of use, look at the control panel. It should have a simple layout with clear labels on the buttons. A digital display helps you see settings easily. Auto-cook menus and one-touch start buttons make common tasks quick and simple. A user-friendly control panel helps you avoid mistakes and makes operation faster. Memory functions let you save favorite settings for easy access later. Clear instructions, an easy-to-read manual, and visible controls help you operate the microwave confidently. This is especially helpful if you are new to using microwaves or have limited technical skills. Focusing on ease of use ensures your microwave fits smoothly into your daily routine.
Design and Style
The design and style of a microwave oven are important for matching your kitchen’s decor and meeting your needs. Choose colors, finishes, and shapes that match your other appliances and overall look. Stainless steel surfaces and digital controls look nice and are easy to use. If space is small, pick a compact model that fits well without losing capacity. Use simple controls and clear displays for easy operation. The look and material quality affect how long the microwave lasts and how well it fits with modern kitchen styles. Select a model that combines good style and useful features. This way, your microwave looks good and works well in your kitchen.
Hi, I’m Liza Jensen, your culinary companion here at Recipe by Liza. 🍳🥗Cooking has always been my passion—I find joy in every whisk, every sizzle, and every aromatic spice. As a home cook and recipe developer, I’ve explored flavors from around the world, creating dishes that warm hearts and tantalize taste buds.Join me on this flavorful journey! Let’s swap kitchen stories, share tips, and celebrate the magic of food together.
