The Best Countertop Microwave
We aggregated expert reviews, published specifications, and verified buyer feedback to identify the best countertop microwave for your home. Our picks balance power, size, and features.
By Lucy Ross
Updated September 11, 2026
A countertop microwave is one of the most reliable kitchen helpers for quickly reheating leftovers, defrosting dinner ingredients, or cooking popcorn.
Whether you need to fit a small counter space or upgrade a full family kitchen, choosing the right model requires sorting through wattage, capacity, and durability.
We examined dozens of models using data from expert consensus, published specifications, and verified buyer feedback to find the top recommendations for your home.
Our recommendations are based on a unified research methodology. BestProducts operates as a review publisher that assign a BP Score (0 to 10) to every product we evaluate. We do not conduct our own product trials.
Instead, our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback. Scouring the widest range of sizes and prices, this guide directs you to the best countertop microwave for your unique cooking habits.
You can also reference our main microwave category for a full landscape of recommendations.
| Award | Product | BP Score About BP ScoreThe BP Score is our own rating from 0 to 10, based on performance, design and build, ease of use, and value. It reflects independent research and is never influenced by manufacturers, retailers, or affiliate commissions. Learn more › | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall |
BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu.Ft Countertop Microwave
|
9.9/10 | $89.90 | Buy |
| Best Premium |
Toshiba 1.2 Cu.Ft. Countertop Microwave
|
9.9/10 | $149.99 | Buy |
GE 1.6 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave
|
9.9/10 | $185.00 | Buy | |
Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 Cu.Ft. Microwave
|
9.9/10 | $239.99 | Buy | |
| Best Budget |
Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave
|
9.8/10 | $69.96 | Buy |
| Best Value |
TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu.Ft Smart Sensor Microwave
|
9.8/10 | $129.99 | Buy |
Toshiba 0.9 Cu.Ft 900W Stainless Steel Microwave
|
9.6/10 | $94.98 | Buy | |
Chefman 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave
|
9.6/10 | $89.92 | Buy | |
Toshiba 0.9 Cu.Ft Microwave
|
9.6/10 | $117.99 | Buy | |
BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave
|
9.5/10 | $79.97 | Buy |
BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu.Ft Countertop Microwave
A compact 900-watt microwave with pre-programmed settings for common foods like popcorn, pizza, and beverages. Its push-button door release and child safety lock make it a practical choice for small kitchens or dorm rooms.
Pros
- Pre-programmed buttons for common foods
- Child safety lock included
- Compact size fits small spaces
- Easy push-button door release
- Large LED display for easy reading
Cons
- Only 900 watts may heat slower than higher wattage models
- 0.9 cu.ft capacity limits large dishes
Toshiba 1.2 Cu.Ft. Countertop Microwave
This Toshiba microwave offers a smart sensor that automatically adjusts time and power based on food humidity for consistent results. It includes six preset menus and ten power levels, making it a versatile choice for everyday reheating and defrosting.
Pros
- Smart sensor adjusts cooking automatically
- Six preset menus for popular foods
- Two defrost options: by weight or time
- One-touch start up to 6 minutes
- Stainless steel finish resists fingerprints
Cons
- No mute option for beeping
- Turntable may limit large dish sizes
GE 1.6 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave
With 1,150 watts and a 1.6 cu. ft. capacity, this GE microwave delivers reliable performance for everyday cooking. Sensor cooking adjusts time automatically, and one-touch controls make it easy to use. Suitable for families who need a trusted countertop microwave with defrost and child lock features.
Pros
- Sensor cooking adjusts time automatically
- 1.6 cu. ft. capacity for family meals
- 1150 watts for fast cooking
- One-touch controls for convenience
- Child lock for safety
Cons
- Requires 3 inches clearance on sides and top
- Heavy at 39 pounds
- Large footprint may not fit small counters
Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 Cu.Ft. Microwave
This large-capacity microwave features Sharp's Inverter Technology for consistent, even heating and defrosting. With sensor cooking and auto cook presets, it simplifies meal prep for busy households.
Pros
- Spacious 2.2 cu. ft. interior
- 1200 watts for fast cooking
- Inverter Technology for even heat
- Sensor and auto cook presets
- Express Cook for quick start
Cons
- Large footprint requires counter space
- Heavy at 33.7 pounds
Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave
This compact 700W microwave is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices. It offers 10 power levels and six one-touch presets for popcorn, pizza, and more, plus a mute button and child safety lock.
Pros
- Compact size fits small spaces
- Mute button silences beeps
- Child safety lock for peace of mind
- Six cooking presets for convenience
- Easy-to-clean exterior and dishwasher-safe turntable
Cons
- Limited capacity for large dishes
- 700W power may cook slower than higher-watt models
- No digital display of remaining time? (not mentioned)
TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu.Ft Smart Sensor Microwave
This Toshiba microwave's smart sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, so you're less likely to overcook or undercook. With six preset menus, 10 power levels, and easy defrost by weight or time, it offers versatility for everyday kitchen tasks.
Pros
- Smart sensor adjusts cooking based on food humidity
- Six preset menus for common foods
- Easy defrost by weight or time
- One-touch start for 1 to 6 minutes
- 10 power levels for cooking flexibility
Cons
- Heavy at 34.6 pounds
- Large footprint requires ample counter space
Toshiba 0.9 Cu.Ft 900W Stainless Steel Microwave
This compact countertop microwave from Toshiba offers 900 watts of power and a 0.9 cu.ft capacity, making it suitable for small kitchens or offices. It features 6 preset menus and 11 power levels for flexible cooking, plus a two-step child lock for safety.
Pros
- Two-step child lock for safety
- 6 preset menus for common foods
- 11 power levels for precise cooking
- Easy defrost by weight or time
- One-touch start for quick operations
Cons
- Automotive binding suggests potential listing error
- Heavy at 24.9 pounds for its size
Chefman 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave
This compact 1000-watt microwave offers six one-touch presets, a mute button, and a child lock. Its Eco Mode and memory function add convenience for daily use.
Pros
- Mute button silences beeps
- Child lock and panel lock for safety
- Eco Mode reduces standby power
- Memory function for frequently used settings
Cons
- No sensor cooking for automatic results
- No dedicated defrost preset
- Relatively heavy at 30.9 pounds
Toshiba 0.9 Cu.Ft Microwave
This compact Toshiba microwave offers 900 watts of power and 0.9 cubic feet of capacity, making it suitable for small kitchens or dorm rooms. It features preset menus for popcorn, pizza, and more, plus a child lock for safety.
Pros
- Two-step child lock for safety
- 11 power levels for cooking flexibility
- Easy defrost by weight or time
- Preset menus for common foods
- One-touch start for quick cooking
Cons
- Small 0.9 cu ft capacity limits large dishes
BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave
This compact 700W microwave is ideal for small kitchens or dorm rooms, offering pre-programmed settings for popcorn, pizza, and more. The child safety lock and push-button door add practical convenience, though its lower wattage means longer cooking times compared to full-size models.
Pros
- Compact size fits tight spaces
- Pre-programmed buttons for common foods
- Child safety lock for peace of mind
- Stainless steel exterior easy to clean
- LED display with clock and timer
Cons
- Lower 700W power slows cooking
- Small 0.7 cu ft limits dish size
- No inverter for even heating
Best Countertop Microwave Buying Guide
Size and Capacity
Microwaves range from 0.6 to 2.2 cubic feet. The 0.6 to 0.9 compact units fit dorms and small apartment small islands. The most common choice is a 1.2 to 1.6 cubic feet unit to cover deep dishes, family leftovers, and larger platters.
If you are limited on counter surface, check our guide to small microwave countertop layouts for the best footprint alternatives.
Wattage and Cooking Power
Higher wattage ensures faster and more even cooking. Models under 800 watts are acceptable for easy reheating but struggle with full meals. 900W is the bare minimum for consistent results. The sweet spot for most kitchens is 1000W.
For a deep dive on this power tier, see our dedicated 1000 watt microwave roundup.
Build Quality and Controls
You choose between digital pads and classic physical dials. Stainless steel finishes resist smudges and stay on trend. Many models now include child locks for safety and mute buttons for quiet operation.
If your space allows mounting, look at our over stove options for a different profile.
Useful Features and Presets
One-touch express cook, sensor reheat, and preset popcorn cycles can simplify the cooking. A dedicated turntable and removable rack are also common. For specific cooking needs, accessories like the egg poacher accessories extends the microwave usefulness beyond simple reheating.
Why You Should Trust Us
BestProducts is an independent product review publisher. Every product is measured by a consistent methodology and given a BP Score (0 to 10). We do not conduct our own product trials.
Our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback. This ensures our picks for the kitchen are transparent and into the broad appliance category.
Trusting our system helps you compare fairly across all listed candidates.
Final Thoughts
Inside the top spec and real user feedback, these picks stand out in each rank:
- Best Overall: TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel, the famous balanced size and fast tonnage for daily reheating.
- Best Value: BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu. Ft., Model that uses good power at an accessible price level.
- Best High-Capacity: Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 Cu. Ft., High performance for larger households.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best size countertop microwave for a family of four?
A 1.2 to 1.6 cu. ft. model fits most family needs. Check our compact microwave options for any further coverage.
Does stainless steel microwave finishes show smudges?
Higher quality smudge-resistant stainless still handles fingerprints better than most budget materials. Regular cleaning is still needed.
Are preset cooking buttons actually useful?
Yes; presets for popcorn and potato improve outcomes. For perfect batch results, a popcorn popper is a universal add.
What capacity handle a frozen pizza?
A 2.0 cu. ft. unit fits a standard pizza. Smaller groups rotate and cook. Look for dimensions.
What is important when choosing a microwave for popcorn fans?
Some presets adjust to popcorn heavily. Use the detail in popcorn prep to find the right cooking.
About the author
Lucy writes about ranges, cooktops, and microwaves for BestProducts, judging heat control, installation demands, and everyday usability. She helps home cooks match a cooking surface to the way they actually cook.