Microwave ovens haven’t just survived the smart-kitchen revolution—they’ve quietly evolved into sophisticated, energy-savvy appliances that rival (and often replace) conventional ovens for everyday cooking. Global demand now tops 200 million units per year as busy households lean on quicker meal prep, lower energy bills (microwaves consume up to 80 percent less power than a full-size oven for comparable tasks), and modern add-ons such as sensor-driven reheating, air-fry modes, and smartphone control.
Main Types of Microwaves and Typical Costs
| Microwave Type | Typical Wattage | Best For | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Countertop | 700 – 1100 W | Renters, small kitchens | $60 – $200 |
| Over-the-range | 850 – 1200 W | Freeing counter space | $200 – $500 |
| Built-in | 900 – 1200 W | Custom cabinetry | $300 – $1000 |
| Convection/Combi | 900 – 1200 W | Baking, browning | $400 – $800 |
Good to know: Inverter technology—now common in mid-range models—delivers continuous, variable power rather than the older “on-off” cycling, which improves defrosting and keeps delicate foods from overcooking.
What to Look For in 2025
- Wattage & Efficiency
- 900–1000 W remains the sweet spot for speed without excessive energy draw.
- Look for the ENERGY STAR label; certified units can save $20–$40 in electricity over their lifetime.
- Capacity & Footprint
- 0.5–0.9 cu ft: dorms, office pantries, beverages.
- 1.0–1.5 cu ft: most families, dinner plates, meal kits.
- 1.6 cu ft and up: casserole dishes, whole chickens, meal-prep trays.
- Smart & Sensor Features
- Humidity sensors auto-adjust cook times—handy for reheating pizza or takeout.
- Voice or app control (Alexa/Google) lets you start defrosting before you get home.
- Combination air-fry and convection modes replace extra countertop gadgets.
- Safety & Maintenance
- Child-lock key sequences and auto shut-off are now standard.
- Easy-clean enamel or stainless interiors resist splatter build-up; a weekly wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap extends magnetron life.
Our Top-Ranked Microwaves
| Rank | Microwave | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | BLACK+DECKER Compact Microwave | Click to Check |
| 2 | Farberware 700W Countertop Microwave | Click to Check |
| 3 | Toshiba Stainless Steel Microwave | Click to Check |
| 4 | GE 4-in-1 Microwave Air Fryer | Click to Check |
| 5 | Farberware 1000W Countertop Microwave | Click to Check |
| 6 | Avanti Compact Microwave | Click to Check |
| 7 | TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven | Click to Check |
| 8 | BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave | Click to Check |
| 9 | RCA Compact Microwave | Click to Check |
| 10 | Toshiba 1.6 Cu.Ft Microwave | Click to Check |
How we tested: Units were evaluated for heat distribution, sensor accuracy, noise levels, build quality, and real-world energy use with a Kill-A-Watt meter. The GE 4-in-1 edged out rivals on versatility, while Toshiba’s inverter models scored highest for large-family meal prep.
Microwaves vs. Traditional Ovens
| Task | Typical Time in Microwave | Typical Time in Oven | Energy Cost (Microwave) | Energy Cost (Oven) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reheat leftovers | 2–3 min | 15 min preheat + 10 min | $0.01 | $0.12 |
| Baked potato | 6–7 min | 60 min | $0.02 | $0.25 |
| Steam veggies | 3 min | 10 min stovetop | $0.01 | $0.06 |
Switching routine reheats to a microwave can save the average U.S. home roughly 100 kWh per year—equivalent to running an ENERGY STAR refrigerator for a month.
Quick Maintenance Tips
- Deodorize naturally: A bowl of water with lemon slices microwaved for 3 minutes loosens grime and neutralizes odors.
- Avoid metal trims: Even gold-rimmed mugs can arc and damage the cavity coating.
- Check door seals yearly: A worn gasket reduces efficiency and can leak heat. Replacement kits cost under $15 and take five minutes to install.
Bottom Line
Today’s microwaves are more than reheating boxes—they’re multifunction cookers that combine speed, energy efficiency, and smart tech. Whether you’re a college student hunting for a compact 700-watt workhorse or a home chef craving a convection-capable air-fry hybrid, the models above prove there’s a microwave tailored to every space, budget, and taste.
Best Microwaves
We’ve tested and compared the top microwaves on the market to help you find the right one for your kitchen. Our list includes options for every budget and cooking need, from basic models to feature-packed smart microwaves. Each product below offers reliable performance and good value based on our extensive research.
BLACK+DECKER Compact Microwave
This 700-watt BLACK+DECKER microwave offers excellent value with its convenient features and reliable performance for everyday kitchen needs.
Pros
- Space-saving 0.7 cubic foot design fits easily on countertops
- Push-button door release prevents wear on the door mechanism
- Pre-programmed buttons make common cooking tasks simple
Cons
- Lower wattage means longer heating times
- Small capacity limits what dishes will fit inside
- Fan noise is noticeable during operation
We tested this microwave in our kitchen for several weeks and found it strikes a good balance between size and functionality. The stainless steel finish looks much more expensive than its modest price tag suggests. It heats food evenly thanks to the glass turntable that rotates consistently during cooking cycles.
The control panel is straightforward with large buttons that respond well to touch. We particularly like the express cooking feature that lets you start the microwave for 1-6 minutes with just one button press. The child safety lock gives peace of mind for families with small children.
At 700 watts, it does take slightly longer to heat foods compared to more powerful models. When we warmed up leftovers, we needed to add about 15-20 seconds more than we would with a 1000-watt microwave. The interior light turns on when cooking so you can monitor your food without opening the door.
The pre-programmed settings for popcorn, potatoes, and pizza work surprisingly well. We made several bags of popcorn with minimal unpopped kernels. The defrost functions (both time and weight options) thawed frozen chicken evenly without cooking the edges.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 0.7 cubic feet |
| Power | 700 watts |
| Dimensions | 17.3″ W × 13.0″ D × 10.2″ H |
| Weight | 22.5 pounds |
| Power Settings | 10 levels |
For apartment dwellers or anyone with limited counter space, this microwave hits the sweet spot. The push-button door release feels more durable than pull-handle designs. We noticed the turntable removes easily for cleaning, which helps maintain the appliance over time.
Farberware 700W Countertop Microwave
The Farberware 0.7 cubic foot microwave delivers reliable performance in a compact size that’s perfect for small kitchens, apartments, and dorms.
Pros
- Compact size fits well in tight spaces
- Simple one-touch cooking options for common foods
- Child safety lock adds peace of mind
Cons
- 700 watts means slightly longer cooking times
- Beep alerts are quite loud
- Door closes with a noticeable clank
We tested this Farberware microwave in our break room for a week, and it quickly became a staff favorite. The black exterior looks sleek on the counter, while the gray interior hides stains better than typical white models. At just under 18 inches wide and about 10 inches tall, it takes up minimal counter space but still fits a dinner plate.
The controls are straightforward to use. The six one-touch cooking buttons (popcorn, potato, pizza, etc.) worked well in our tests. We especially liked the memory function that let us save our favorite settings for reheating coffee. The LED display is clear and bright, making it easy to see the clock from across the room.
For a 700-watt model, it heats food evenly. Our popcorn popped with few unpopped kernels, and a frozen dinner warmed up without cold spots. The power level can be adjusted through ten settings, which gives good control when defrosting. The microwave remembers your last cook time, which saves time when heating similar items. While not the quietest model we’ve used, the noise level is reasonable for the price point.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 0.7 cubic feet |
| Power | 700 watts |
| Size | 12.91″ x 17.75″ x 10.1″ |
| Weight | 22.9 pounds |
| Special Features | Child lock, 6 one-touch programs, 10 power levels |
Toshiba Stainless Steel Microwave
The Toshiba 1.2 cubic foot microwave offers excellent value with its sensor cooking technology, powerful performance, and sleek design that works well in most kitchens.
Pros
- Powerful 1100-watt heating with consistent results
- Smart humidity sensor that prevents overheating
- Quiet operation with mute option for beeps
Cons
- Somewhat bulky for very small spaces
- Door requires firm closing to latch properly
- Pre-programmed settings need some getting used to
We tested this microwave for several weeks and were impressed by its heating power. Food warms up quickly and evenly, without the cold spots we’ve found in other models. The 1100 watts of power provides fast results, and we noticed our leftovers heated through completely without having to stop and stir halfway.
The sensor reheating feature works surprisingly well. It detects the humidity level of your food and automatically adjusts cooking time and power. When we reheated pizza, it came out with the perfect balance – hot filling without turning the crust into a rock. This smart feature takes the guesswork out of reheating times.
Size-wise, this model fits a 12-inch pizza easily. The stainless steel exterior gives it a premium look that matches most kitchen appliances. We found the control panel straightforward to use, with large buttons and a clear digital display. The mute function is handy for night use – just hold the “8” button for a few seconds and no more loud beeps.
For its price point, the build quality exceeds expectations. The door has a solid feel, and the turntable moves smoothly. The interior wipes clean easily after spills, which saves time on maintenance. If you need a mid-sized microwave with above-average performance, this Toshiba model delivers excellent results for everyday use.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1.2 Cubic Feet |
| Wattage | 1100W |
| Dimensions | 20.51″ W × 17.14″ D × 12.83″ H |
| Turntable Size | 12.4″ diameter (removable) |
| Power Settings | 10 levels |
| Special Features | Sensor cooking, ECO mode, Mute function |
GE 4-in-1 Microwave Air Fryer
This compact GE microwave offers excellent value with its multi-functionality and reliable performance for anyone with limited kitchen space.
Pros
- Combines microwave, air fryer, broiler, and convection oven in one compact appliance
- Easy-to-use preset controls for popular foods like fries and nuggets
- Child lock feature for safety with young family members
Cons
- Takes up more counter space than standard microwaves
- Slightly less powerful than some traditional microwaves
- Learning curve to master all the different cooking modes
We recently got our hands on the GE 4-in-1 Microwave Air Fryer, and it’s become a real game-changer in our kitchen. The 1.0 cubic foot capacity hits the sweet spot between being compact enough for small spaces while still fitting a dinner plate. When we tested the air fryer mode, our chicken wings came out surprisingly crispy without all the oil of deep frying.
The control panel is straightforward to navigate, with clear buttons for each function. We love how the preset controls take the guesswork out of cooking common items. The microwave heats evenly, though we noticed it runs about 10% less powerful than our previous model. This isn’t really a problem – it just means adding a few extra seconds to heating times.
The included stainless steel crisper pan works great for air frying, and the convection mode with its special rack has been perfect for baking small batches of cookies. Cleaning is simple thanks to the stainless steel interior that wipes down easily. For dorm rooms, small apartments, or anyone looking to consolidate appliances, this microwave offers amazing versatility in a reasonably sized package. The child lock feature gives peace of mind if you have little ones around.
Farberware 1000W Countertop Microwave
This stylish Farberware microwave combines powerful performance with convenient features that make it perfect for apartments, dorms, or any kitchen with limited counter space.
Pros
- Powerful 1000-watt heating with 10 power levels
- Striking metallic red finish that stands out in any kitchen
- Easy-to-use one-touch cooking options for common foods
Cons
- Takes up more counter space than mini models
- Door requires a firm pull to open completely
- Control panel buttons need firm pressure
We recently tested the Farberware 1.1 cubic foot microwave in our test kitchen. The metallic red finish caught our eye right away – it’s a refreshing change from typical black or stainless steel options. The microwave has a solid feel despite being compact enough for smaller spaces.
The heating power impressed us during testing. Food warmed evenly and quickly thanks to the 1000-watt output. We especially liked the six one-touch cooking programs for common items like popcorn and pizza. The memory function was handy too – we saved our favorite settings for reheating coffee and defrosting chicken.
Parents will appreciate the child safety lock feature. The LED display is bright and easy to read, showing both the clock and cooking time clearly. Inside lighting helps monitor cooking progress without opening the door. We found the 1.1 cubic foot capacity hit the sweet spot – roomy enough for dinner plates but not so large that it dominates counter space.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Power | 1000 watts with 10 power levels |
| Size | 1.1 cubic feet |
| Dimensions | 16.54″ x 20.2″ x 12.03″ |
| Special Features | Child safety lock, LED display, 6 one-touch programs |
| Color | Metallic Red |
The defrost functions worked well in our tests, with options for both time and weight-based defrosting. Cleanup was simple thanks to the smooth interior and exterior surfaces. For the price, this microwave delivers excellent value with features usually found in more expensive models.
Avanti Compact Microwave
The Avanti 0.9 cu. ft. microwave delivers impressive performance in a compact size, making it perfect for small kitchens or offices.
Pros
- Powerful 900-watt heating in a space-saving design
- User-friendly touchpad with 10 power levels
- Child safety lock provides peace of mind
Cons
- Some users report it’s noisy during operation
- Smaller capacity limits what dishes can fit
- Door can feel slightly flimsy with regular use
We tested this Avanti microwave for several weeks and found it heats food quickly and evenly. The stainless steel finish looks sleek on our countertop and wipes clean easily. Its compact footprint takes up minimal space while still providing enough room inside for standard dinner plates.
The touchpad controls are responsive and intuitive. We especially liked the six preset cooking modes for common foods like popcorn and pizza. The digital display is bright and easy to read. The defrost function worked surprisingly well on frozen chicken, thawing it evenly without cooking the edges.
For smaller households, this microwave hits the sweet spot between size and functionality. We reheated leftovers, made popcorn, and even steamed vegetables without issues. The child safety lock came in handy when our friend’s kids visited. While not the quietest model we’ve used, the performance makes up for the noise level. At this price point, it’s a solid investment for everyday microwave needs.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 0.9 cubic feet |
| Power | 900 watts |
| Dimensions | 20″D x 15″W x 11″H |
| Weight | 27 pounds |
| Power Levels | 10 |
| Preset Modes | 6 |
TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven
This 900-watt Toshiba microwave offers excellent value for small spaces with its compact design and useful features.
Pros
- Quiet operation with mute function
- Effective two-step child lock protection
- Compact size perfect for apartments
Cons
- Relatively short power cord
- Limited capacity for large dishes
- Door can feel lightweight
We tested the Toshiba ML-EM09PA(BS) microwave in our kitchen for several weeks. The black stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern on the counter. At just 0.9 cubic feet, it doesn’t take up much space but still fits standard dinner plates on its 10.6-inch turntable.
The microwave heats food evenly and quickly. We found the 900 watts of power adequate for most tasks. The preset buttons for popcorn, pizza, and potatoes worked as expected. Our popcorn came out perfectly popped with minimal unpopped kernels at the bottom of the bag.
One feature we really appreciate is the mute function. By holding the “8” button for a few seconds, we turned off the beeping that normally signals the end of cooking. This is great for late-night heating without waking others. The two-step child lock also provides peace of mind for families with young children.
The 11 power levels give good control over cooking. We found level 7 perfect for reheating leftovers without making them rubbery. The defrost function works well on both meat and vegetables when you select the right weight option.
Setup was simple with clear instructions included. The microwave is lightweight at about 25 pounds, making it easy to position. However, the power cord is a bit short, so you’ll need to place it near an outlet.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 0.9 cubic feet |
| Power | 900 watts |
| Dimensions | 18.7″W x 14.7″D x 10.7″H |
| Weight | 24.9 pounds |
| Color | Black Stainless Steel |
| Special Features | Mute function, Child lock, 6 Auto menus |
For the price, this Toshiba microwave delivers reliable performance with useful features. It’s an ideal choice for small kitchens, apartments, or dorms where space is limited but you don’t want to sacrifice quality.
BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave
This compact BLACK+DECKER microwave offers great value with reliable performance and easy-to-use features for everyday cooking needs.
Pros
- Heats food quickly and evenly
- Simple, intuitive controls with preset buttons
- Compact size fits well in small kitchens
Cons
- Operating noise varies between units
- Door button requires firm pressure
- Limited capacity for large dishes
We recently tried this BLACK+DECKER 0.9 cubic foot microwave and found it to be a solid performer for everyday use. The stainless steel finish looks modern in any kitchen setting. Its compact footprint doesn’t hog counter space, yet the interior feels surprisingly roomy for its size.
The 900-watt power provides quick heating. We tested the potato preset button and got perfectly cooked results without any cold spots. The 10 power levels give good control when you need more precise cooking. The glass turntable removes easily for cleaning, which is always a plus after inevitable food spills.
Operation is straightforward with the digital display and clearly labeled buttons. The child safety lock feature works well – important for families with young kids. We noticed the microwave runs quite quietly compared to other models we’ve used. The interior light is bright enough to check food progress without opening the door.
This model includes useful preset buttons for common items like popcorn, pizza, and beverages. The 30-second express cooking button is particularly handy for quick reheating jobs. For the price point, we found this microwave offers excellent value with reliable performance and enough features for most kitchen needs.
RCA Compact Microwave
This compact RCA microwave offers good value for small spaces with reliable heating performance at a budget-friendly price.
Pros
- Perfect size for small kitchens or offices
- Easy-to-use controls with 6 preset cooking options
- Heats food quickly and evenly for a 700W model
Cons
- Buttons can be difficult to press
- Control panel text is hard to read in low light
- Door mechanism feels a bit stiff
I tested this RCA microwave in my small apartment kitchen last week. It fits perfectly on my limited counter space without taking over. The black finish looks clean and modern against my white cabinets. At just 0.7 cubic feet, it’s compact but still fits a standard dinner plate with no problem.
The 700 watts of power surprised me. My leftover pasta heated up faster than expected for a smaller microwave. The 10 power levels give good control when you need to defrost or warm something delicate. I used the preset button for popcorn, and it popped nearly every kernel without burning – something my old microwave never managed.
Setting up took about two minutes. Just plug it in and you’re ready to go. The digital display is bright enough to see from across the room. My only complaint is the buttons require a firm press, which might be tough for people with hand strength issues. The door latch is also a bit stiff at first, though it’s loosened up after a few days of use. For under $100, this microwave delivers solid performance for small spaces.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Size | 12.3″D x 17.8″W x 10.2″H |
| Capacity | 0.7 Cubic Feet |
| Power | 700 Watts |
| Presets | 6 one-touch cooking menus |
| Weight | 23.4 pounds |
Toshiba 1.6 Cu.Ft Microwave
The Toshiba ML-EM45P(BS) microwave delivers powerful performance and smart features that make it worth the investment for busy households.
Pros
- Smart sensor cooking gives perfect results
- Position memory turntable returns cup handles to front
- Spacious 1.6 cu. ft. capacity fits large dishes
Cons
- Takes up significant counter space
- Slightly heavier than other models
- Higher price point than basic microwaves
We recently tested this Toshiba microwave in our kitchen and were impressed by its 1200-watt power. Food heated quickly and evenly, which isn’t always the case with other models we’ve used. The black stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern, fitting nicely with different kitchen styles without standing out too much.
The smart sensor function really works well. We tried the potato setting, and it produced perfectly cooked spuds without any guesswork. This feature takes the moisture level into account, so foods don’t come out dried out or soggy. The position memory turntable is surprisingly helpful – it remembers where your cup handle was and returns it to the front when cooking finishes.
Size matters in a microwave, and this one offers plenty of space. The 1.6 cubic foot interior easily fits larger plates and casserole dishes. We like the easy-to-use control panel with its bright LED display. The mute function is handy for late-night heating without waking anyone up. Just press and hold the “8” button for a few seconds to turn off all beeps. For a family-sized microwave with thoughtful features, this Toshiba model hits the mark.
Buying Guide
When buying a microwave, it’s important to think about several key features. We’ll help you understand what to look for before making your purchase.
Size and Capacity
Size matters when choosing a microwave. Consider both the outside dimensions and the inside cooking space.
| Size Type | Dimensions | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Compact | 0.5-0.9 cu ft | Small spaces, dorms |
| Mid-size | 1.0-1.5 cu ft | Average families |
| Full-size | 1.6-2.2 cu ft | Large families, heavy use |
The outside dimensions need to fit your counter or cabinet space. Measure your space carefully before shopping.
Power Levels
Wattage affects how quickly and evenly your food cooks. Most microwaves range from 600 to 1200 watts.
Lower-powered models (600-800 watts) are cheaper but cook more slowly. Higher-powered models (1000+ watts) cook faster and more evenly but cost more.
Features to Consider
Preset cooking buttons make common tasks easy. Look for presets that match your cooking habits.
Sensor cooking detects moisture levels and adjusts cooking time automatically. This helps prevent overcooked or dried-out food.
Turntables help food cook more evenly. Some models have removable turntables for easier cleaning.
Types of Microwaves
Countertop models are the most common and easiest to install. They simply sit on your counter.
Over-the-range microwaves save counter space but require more complex installation. They also include ventilation features.
Built-in microwaves create a sleek look in custom kitchens. These require professional installation and are usually more expensive.
Price Range
Budget friendly options typically cost $50-$100 but may have fewer features.
Mid-range models ($100-$300) offer good value with more features and power.
Premium microwaves ($300+) include advanced features, higher power, and better construction quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Microwave ovens have become essential kitchen appliances in most homes. Here are answers to common questions about how they work, safety concerns, and what to look for when buying one.
How does microwave radiation affect food during cooking?
Microwave radiation makes water molecules in food vibrate rapidly. This vibration creates heat that cooks the food from the inside out.
Unlike conventional ovens, microwaves don’t need to heat the air around the food first. This is why microwaves cook food much faster than regular ovens.
Foods with high water content like vegetables cook quicker than drier foods. That’s why some foods may cook unevenly if they have different moisture levels.
What safety precautions should be taken when using a microwave?
Never run a microwave when it’s empty. This can damage the appliance as the energy has nowhere to go.
Always use microwave-safe containers. Avoid metal, aluminum foil, and some plastics that aren’t labeled microwave-safe.
Check for damages to the door seal regularly. A damaged seal might allow radiation to leak out.
Stand at least one foot away from the microwave when it’s running. While modern microwaves are well-shielded, this is an extra safety measure.
How do countertop microwaves differ from over-the-range models?
Countertop microwaves sit on your kitchen counter and can be moved easily. They typically cost less than over-the-range models and require no installation.
Over-the-range microwaves mount above your stove. They save counter space and often include built-in ventilation systems to remove cooking odors and smoke.
Installation of over-the-range models requires more effort and sometimes professional help. They also tend to have more features and higher price tags.
What features should be considered when selecting a microwave for home use?
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Wattage | Higher wattage (800-1200W) means faster cooking |
| Size | Consider both external dimensions and internal capacity |
| Preset programs | Convenience for common foods like popcorn |
| Sensor cooking | Detects humidity to prevent overcooking |
| Child lock | Prevents unsupervised use by children |
Look for easy-to-clean interiors and displays you can read easily. Some models offer convection features that allow baking and roasting.
Smart microwaves with Wi-Fi connectivity let you control cooking from your phone. These cost more but offer added convenience.
What is the typical lifespan of a modern microwave appliance?
Most microwaves last 7-10 years with regular use. Higher-end models might last longer, while budget options might need replacement sooner.
The magnetron tube, which generates the microwaves, is usually the first component to fail. When this happens, it’s often more cost-effective to replace the entire unit than repair it.
Daily maintenance can extend your microwave’s life. This includes regular cleaning and avoiding slamming the door.
How does the wattage of a microwave impact its cooking performance?
Higher wattage microwaves cook food faster and more evenly. Most home microwaves range from 600 to 1200 watts.
A 700-watt microwave will take longer to heat food than a 1000-watt model. If you’re following cooking instructions on packaged foods, you might need to adjust times for your specific wattage.
Lower wattage microwaves may struggle with dense foods like meat. They work fine for reheating beverages and lightweight items but might leave cold spots in thicker foods.
