11 Best Microwave Reviews for Smart Picks in 2025 – The Ultimate Guide to Top-Rated Models
Choosing the right microwave can improve your daily cooking. In 2025, many models are available, which makes picking one difficult.
Some microwaves are small and fit in tight spaces, while others have advanced features and smart technology.
To decide, it helps to see the top-rated models and understand what makes them special.
This list highlights options that can make your kitchen more useful and safer.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.7 Cu Ft, 700W
- 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 700W 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...
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven offers a compact and efficient cooking solution. Its 0.7 Cu Ft capacity fits well on most countertops, saving space. The 700-watt power delivers quick and precise cooking. With 10 power levels, you can easily select the right setting for different foods. Six preset programs, including popcorn, pizza, and leftovers, simplify meal prep. The digital touch controls are easy to operate, and the memory feature saves your favorite settings for convenience. The mute option reduces noise during operation, making it suitable for quiet environments. Its modern black finish matches various kitchen styles.
Best For: Small to medium kitchens that need a simple, reliable microwave with preset functions and modern design.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use digital touch controls and a +30 seconds quick-start button
- Multiple preset options for quick, versatile cooking
- Sleek black finish that complements different kitchen decor
Cons:
- The size may not fit larger dishes or family-sized meals
- The crisp function may work best with careful use
- Limited instructions available for customizing the crisp feature
Toshiba Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor and 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.
Are you looking for a large, powerful microwave that fits into modern kitchens? The Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) has a spacious 2.2 cubic feet interior, making it easy to cook big meals like a whole chicken or a large pizza. The microwave offers 1200 watts of power and a smart humidity sensor. These features ensure your food heats evenly and stays moist.
This microwave provides six automatic preset menus, auto-defrost, and multi-stage cooking. These options make meal preparation simple and quick. A large turntable supports different dish sizes, while extra features like a child lock and memory function add safety and convenience. The ECO mode helps save energy during use.
Quiet operation and a large digital display make this microwave easy and comfortable to use. The sleek stainless steel finish gives it a modern look that matches many kitchen styles.
This microwave is ideal for families and individuals who need a spacious, powerful, and easy-to-use appliance. Its size suits larger meal prep, while the simple controls enhance usability.
Pros:
- Big 2.2 cubic foot space fits large meals easily
- 1200W power with humidity sensor for even heating and moisture retention
- Multiple preset options, auto-defrost, and multi-stage cooking simplify meal prep
Cons:
- The beeper sound is soft and may be hard to notice
- Control panel buttons could be easier to see in low light
- Its larger size may require more space on your counter in smaller kitchens
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven
- 【Pre-programmed sensor menu】 for optimum heating of popular foods like pizza, potatoes, veggies, and more; Power Wattage (Microwave): 1000W; Rated Voltage:...
- 【Stylish Appearance with Large Interior, fitting a 12 inch Pizza】Black, exterior, W 23.3 in x D 18.4 in x H 15 in; large 1. 2 cubic feet capacity, Turntable...
- 【Practical Control Panel】Large digital display, easy-to-read control panel. The keypad was covered by a protective film during the shipment. Please peel it...
If you need a reliable countertop microwave that combines performance with modern style, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS is a strong choice in 2025. It has a capacity of 1.2 cubic feet and features a sleek black stainless steel finish that fits well in contemporary kitchens and offices. With a powerful 1000W motor, it heats food quickly and evenly. The microwave includes a smart humidity sensor that helps cook food precisely. It offers 12 auto menus, 10 power levels, and a clear digital display for easy use. Additional features like a mute button, eco mode, and a 12.4-inch turntable make it versatile and simple to operate. Overall, this microwave delivers dependable performance and convenience for everyday use.
Best For: People who want a stylish, dependable countertop microwave with advanced features that ensure quick, even heating in modern kitchens or offices.
Pros:
- 1000W power with sensor cooking for accurate results
- Easy-to-read digital display and simple controls
- Black stainless steel finish adds a modern touch
Cons:
- Some features may take time to learn fully
- Comes with a one-year warranty, which is standard
- Larger size may require sufficient space and handling due to its weight
GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
- 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 is a flexible kitchen tool for small spaces. It combines microwave, air fryer, convection, and broiler functions. It uses 1050 watts of power and offers 1.0 cubic feet of space. The design is compact and has a stainless steel finish. It is suitable for dorms and small kitchens. Easy-to-use preset controls help with cooking. The glass turntable ensures even heat distribution. The air fryer allows healthy crisp foods. Some buttons may be hard to read. This microwave oven provides multiple functions and reliable performance. It is a space-saving choice for easy cooking.
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Auto Menus
- Compact Design: With external dimensions of 20.6x16.3x11.8 inches (WxDxH) and internal dimensions of 13.9x14.1x10 inches (WxDxH), this stylish black stainless...
- Versatile Cooking: Featuring 10 unique power levels and 13 preset menus for effortless sensor cook of various dishes, snacks, and beverages, this microwave...
- User-Friendly Features: Enjoy convenient functions like defrosting frozen food by weight or time, mute mode to silence the beeping sound, and a memory function...
The TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven features smart sensor technology and auto menus. It offers 13 preset auto cooking options, which help prepare a variety of foods with ease. Its inverter technology provides quick, even heating for reheating, defrosting, and melting tasks. The microwave has a sleek black stainless steel look and a compact size that fits well in modern kitchens. Its interior is bright, and it operates quietly, making it convenient to use.
However, the control panel is small and dim, which makes it hard to read in low light. Over time, the control panel can bubble, crack, or fade, leading to durability issues. Customer support is limited, and warranty responses can be slow or inconsistent. Despite these challenges, this microwave remains popular for its versatile automatic features and modern style.
Best For: Busy households or individuals who want a reliable, modern microwave with automatic cooking options and fast heating.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use with 13 preset auto menus
- Inverter technology for consistent, quick heating
- Stylish black stainless steel design and compact size
Cons:
- Small, dim control panel can be hard to see
- Control panel may bubble, crack, or fade over months
- Limited customer support and warranty help
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Turntable
- 【Better texture with sensor menus 】This 1200-watt high power countertop microwave with 10 power levels includes a pre-programmed sensor menu for optimum...
- 【Large Capacity for a Family Size】1.6 cu. ft. capacity ; 13.6" turntable; fitting a 13inch pizza; with one touch popcorn button as kitchen essential
- 【Position Memory Turntable】 Innovative position-memory technique resets the turntable to the initial position for more convenient and safer use
The TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven features Smart Sensor technology, helping busy households cook food more evenly with less effort. Its six auto menus adjust cooking times automatically to ensure meals are perfectly heated. The 13.6-inch turntable fits large dishes, such as 13-inch pizzas, easily. With 1200 watts of power, it offers multiple cooking options, including auto defrost, multi-stage cooking, and soft melt. The sleek black stainless steel finish gives it a modern look that suits any kitchen. Easy-to-use controls, including one-touch buttons, make operation simple, while the turntable’s position memory adds safety and convenience for daily use.
Best For: households that want a versatile microwave with smart features and a large capacity for everyday cooking.
Pros:
- Smart Sensor technology with six auto menus helps achieve perfectly cooked meals with less effort
- Large 13.6-inch turntable handles big dishes like 13-inch pizzas
- Stylish black stainless steel finish fits well in modern kitchens
Cons:
- Some users find the buttons hard to see in low light; backlit buttons could improve visibility
- Setting the clock and using the controls may take some time to learn
- Limited preset options; more user-defined settings could offer greater flexibility
FRIGIDAIRE EMW733BLACKAMZ 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black
- DIGITAL PANEL: Our microwave features a Digital Control Panel that makes it really easy to use and provides choices for express cooking, altering the power...
- CONVENIENT: Utilize the two different defrost timers to have full control over how you want your food to be warmed. Cook your personalized meals and snacks in...
- SAFE: Keep your little ones safe by using the Child Safety Lock that prevents inadvertent usage or access. The large display provides a crystal clear viewing of...
Are you looking for an affordable microwave that saves space? The FRIGIDAIRE EMW733BLACKAMZ is a small model with a 0.7 cubic foot capacity. It weighs only 23.4 pounds and measures 12.3 by 17.8 by 10.2 inches. With 700 watts of power, it offers 10 cooking levels and six auto-cook options. The digital control panel is simple to use, and there is a child safety lock for protection. Some users find the control buttons hard to press and see in dim light. Others report occasional problems with the door. Despite these issues, this microwave is praised for its small size, affordability, and ability to handle basic heating and cooking tasks. It works well as a backup or for small spaces like apartments and offices.
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 0.9 Cu Ft offers a simple and reliable option for small spaces. It has 900 watts of power, so it heats food quickly. Its 0.9 cubic foot interior fits a 10-inch pizza easily. The microwave features six auto menus, ten power levels, and one-touch start buttons. These make cooking quick and convenient. The digital controls are easy to use, and the child safety lock keeps children safe. Its compact size and stainless steel body give it a modern look. Weighing just 26 pounds, it moves easily for placement. This microwave works well for students, small families, or anyone who needs a straightforward appliance for reheating and simple cooking.
Best For: small kitchens, dorm rooms, or quick meals.
Pros:
- Fits in small spaces
- Simple controls and auto menus
- Modern stainless steel design
Cons:
- Can be noisy during operation
- Child lock may be hard to operate for some users
- Limited space for large items
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable Turntable
- Medium-sized 1.1 cu. ft. capacity, 1000 watts, Stainless
- New! Cooking platform and stylish design; New! Gray Interior; New! White LED Display; New! LED Interior Lighting
- Orville Redenbacher's Certified Popcorn Presets
If you need a reliable countertop microwave that can fit full-size plates easily, the SHARP SMC1162KS is a good choice. It has a spacious 1.1 cubic foot interior and a 1000-watt motor that heats food quickly and evenly. The removable 12.4-inch carousel turntable helps distribute heat evenly and is simple to clean. Its stainless steel exterior fits well in most kitchens, and the white LED display makes it easy to operate. It features preset options like auto cook and defrost, plus a +30 seconds instant start for convenience. The microwave runs a bit louder than some models, which may be noticeable. Its simple controls include a button to press before opening the door after cooking. Overall, this microwave offers strong performance, straightforward controls, and enough space for busy households.
Best For: Those looking for a spacious, powerful, and dependable countertop microwave for full-size plates and quick meal preparation.
Pros:
- Fits full-size plates without tilting, ideal for busy households.
- Heats evenly and quickly with 1000 watts and a removable carousel turntable.
- Easy-to-use controls with useful preset functions like auto cook and defrost.
Cons:
- Can be louder than other models, which might be disruptive.
- Looks average and may not match all kitchen styles.
- Requires pressing an unlock button to open the door after cooking, which some users may find less intuitive.
Danby DBMW0721BWW 0.7 cu. ft White Countertop Microwave
- 0.7 cu ft. capacity, 700 Watts 10 power levels
- 6 Convenient auto cook options: popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverage, dinner plate
- Express Cook buttons: 1 – 6 minutes
The Danby DBMW0721BWW 0.7 cubic foot white countertop microwave is ideal for small kitchens and tight spaces. Its compact size measures about 13 by 17.3 by 10.2 inches, making it easy to place on countertops. It operates at 700 watts with 10 power levels, giving you control for reheating and basic cooking. Features include auto cook options for popcorn, pizza, and beverages to speed up meal prep. Safety locks help keep young children safe from accidental use. While it takes more time to cook than higher-wattage models, its quiet operation, clean white finish, and affordable price make it a smart addition to any small kitchen.
Best For: small households that need an affordable, simple microwave for reheating and light cooking.
Pros:
- Fits well in small kitchens and on crowded counters
- Quiet operation and a sleek white look improve kitchen style
- Auto cook options and safety locks add convenience and safety
Cons:
- Lower wattage may lead to longer cooking times
- Uneven plate rotation can cause inconsistent cooking, especially with larger bowls
- Manual controls and instructions may be unclear, requiring online tips or trial and error
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven (SMC1161KW)
- 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 (SMC1161KW) features a 1.1 cubic foot interior space and 1000 watts of power. These specs support quick, efficient cooking, making it useful for busy households. Its design includes a gray interior, a white LED display, and interior lighting, adding a sleek look to your kitchen. The removable turntable makes cleaning easy and flexible for various dish sizes. It offers useful cooking options like auto cook, weight and time defrost, and a +30 seconds quick start button. With 10 power levels, two-stage cooking, and an express cook feature for up to six minutes, this microwave combines practicality with a modern look.
Best For: households that need a reliable, stylish microwave for daily use and quick meal prep.
Pros:
- 1.1 cubic foot capacity and a 12.4-inch turntable fit larger dishes
- 1000-watt power ensures fast cooking
- Stylish design with gray interior, white LED display, and interior light
Cons:
- Limited to 10 power levels, which may not meet all specific cooking needs
- No smart features or advanced connectivity options
- Slightly larger size may require more counter space
Factors to Consider When Choosing Microwave Reviews for Smart Picks in 2025
When choosing microwave reviews for smart picks in 2025, focus on several important factors. Check the size and capacity to ensure it fits your space and meets your needs. Look at the power level to find a microwave that cooks efficiently. Choose models that are easy to operate to simplify your usage. Safety features are essential to keep your kitchen safe. Also, consider the design and appearance to match your kitchen style. Prioritizing these aspects will help you select the best microwave for your home.
Size and Capacity
Choosing the right microwave size and capacity is important to match your cooking and reheating needs. Measure the microwave’s internal capacity in cubic feet to see if it fits your typical containers and dishes. For small spaces and simple tasks, a model around 0.7 cubic feet works well. If you cook larger meals or use bigger cookware, pick a microwave over 1.5 cubic feet. The turntable size also matters; a 16-inch turntable can hold large plates like pizza or casseroles easily. Consider your available counter space when choosing a model. Bigger microwaves offer more room but take up more space. Always check the physical dimensions to ensure the microwave fits well in your kitchen.
Power and Performance
Choosing a microwave with the right power and features ensures faster, even cooking. Higher wattage models heat food quickly and spread the heat uniformly. This saves time and prevents cold spots. Adjustable power levels let you control cooking, reheating, or defrosting for different foods. Sensors, like humidity detectors, automatically change cooking times based on moisture levels. This prevents overcooking and undercooking. Multi-stage cooking functions and preset modes make it easy to follow recipes. The turntable size, heating element quality, and control systems also affect performance. Together, these features give dependable, consistent results for every task.
Ease of Operation
Ease of operation plays a key role in your experience with a microwave. An easy-to-use interface with clear controls helps anyone set or change cooking functions easily. Digital displays and labeled preset buttons allow quick and accurate adjustments, saving time. Features like +30 seconds instant start and memory buttons offer one-touch operation, making busy mornings simpler. Proper placement and visibility of controls are important, especially if you have limited vision or cook in low light. Ergonomic details, such as easy-open doors and logically arranged buttons, improve ease of use. When choosing a microwave, look for these simple, user-friendly features to ensure smooth and hassle-free operation every time.
Safety Features
Have you thought about safety features in your microwave? Choose models with child safety locks to prevent kids from accidentally starting it. Look for safety mechanisms that are easy to activate and reliably lock the control panel during use or when you’re not around. Check for safety labels and certifications like UL or CSA, which show the microwave meets safety standards. Automatic shut-off functions are important; they turn off the microwave if it overheats or detects electrical issues, protecting your device and home. Features like soft-close doors help prevent pinched fingers, while non-slip bases keep the microwave steady during operation. These safety features make sure your microwave is safe and easy to use every day.
Design and Aesthetics
Have you thought about how the design and look of a microwave can improve your kitchen. The right model should match your appliances and style. Look for finishes like stainless steel or black stainless steel. These are durable and simple to clean. Features such as easy-to-use control panels and soft lighting add to the look and make the microwave easier to use. Check that the size fits your countertop and cooking needs. Avoid bulky models that take up too much space. Easy-to-read controls, clear displays, and comfortable handles make using the microwave safer and more convenient. Picking a well-designed microwave helps your kitchen look better and works efficiently. It’s a smart choice for 2025.
Additional Functions
Additional functions can make a microwave more useful and easy to operate. Features like sensor cooking, auto defrost, and preset menus help you prepare meals faster and with less effort. Combo options, such as microwave with convection or air frying, let you bake or crisp foods, expanding your cooking choices. Convenience features, like +30 seconds buttons, memory settings, and quick-start presets, help you operate the microwave efficiently. Special modes, including crisping and melting, improve specific tasks and food texture. Some advanced models include eco modes and child safety features for added versatility. These functions ensure your microwave adapts to your needs, offering better performance and easier use.
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.
