The Best Reviewed Microwave
From compact models to powerful 1200W ovens, our research highlights the top-rated microwaves that deliver even heating and convenient features. Find your ideal match.
By Lucy Ross
Updated September 11, 2026
Microwave ovens have become a cornerstone of the modern kitchen, offering unmatched convenience for reheating leftovers, defrosting ingredients, and even cooking entire meals.
With a wide range of sizes, power levels, and feature sets available, finding the right model for your countertop can feel daunting. Our research simplifies the process by evaluating top-rated microwaves on consistent criteria.
At BestProducts, we assess each microwave through thorough research, analyzing technical specifications, expert review consensus, and feedback from verified buyers. We then score every product on our 0 to 10 BP Score. The results below showcase the best-reviewed microwaves that combine reliability, performance, and value for 2026.
| 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 |
Frigidaire EMW733 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave
|
9.9/10 | $69.00 | Buy |
BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu.Ft Countertop Microwave
|
9.9/10 | $89.90 | Buy | |
Toshiba 1.2 Cu.Ft. Countertop Microwave
|
9.9/10 | $149.99 | Buy | |
| Best Value |
BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu. Ft. Compact Microwave
|
9.9/10 | $81.27 | Buy |
| Best Premium |
Sharp SMC1161KB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Microwave
|
9.9/10 | $129.99 | 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 |
Frigidaire EMW736BLK 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave
|
9.8/10 | $69.00 | Buy |
COMFEE' 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave
|
9.8/10 | $69.96 | Buy | |
Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave
|
9.8/10 | $69.96 | Buy | |
Frigidaire 0.7 Cu. Ft. Retro Microwave
|
9.8/10 | $74.98 | Buy | |
Nostalgia Retro 0.7 cu ft Microwave
|
9.8/10 | $79.99 | Buy |
Frigidaire EMW733 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave
This compact countertop microwave from Frigidaire offers convenient digital controls and six one-touch auto-cooking settings for popcorn, pizza, and more. The child safety lock and dual defrost timers add flexibility for families and individuals.
Pros
- Digital control panel with express cooking
- Child safety lock prevents accidental use
- Two defrost timers for controlled thawing
- Six auto-cooking presets simplify meal prep
Cons
- 0.7 cubic foot capacity limits dish size
- Weighs 23 pounds, heavier than similar models
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
BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu. Ft. Compact Microwave
This compact microwave from BLACK+DECKER fits easily on a countertop with its 0.7 cubic foot capacity and 700 watts of power. It offers convenient one-touch cooking for popcorn, potato, and pizza, plus a child safety lock for peace of mind. The LED interior light and handless white front give it a clean, modern look.
Pros
- Compact size ideal for small kitchens
- Child safety lock for security
- Easy one-touch cooking options
- LED interior lighting for clear view
- Memory function for custom settings
Cons
- Small capacity may limit dish sizes
- Lower wattage compared to standard microwaves
- Handless door may take getting used to
Sharp SMC1161KB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Microwave
This medium-sized microwave from Sharp delivers 1000 watts of power and a 1.1 cu ft capacity for everyday cooking. It features a carousel turntable, 10 power levels, and two-stage cooking, plus a new gray interior and white LED display for a modern look.
Pros
- Medium 1.1 cu ft capacity fits countertops well
- 1000 watts for efficient heating
- Carousel turntable promotes even cooking
- 10 power levels and 2-stage cooking flexibility
- Quick access with +30 seconds and Express Cook keys
Cons
- Heavy at 33.1 pounds for its size
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
Frigidaire EMW736BLK 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave
This compact microwave fits easily in dorms, apartment kitchens, or small workspaces. Its digital control panel and six auto-cooking settings simplify daily meal prep, while the child safety lock adds peace of mind for families.
Pros
- Compact size perfect for small spaces
- Digital panel with express cooking and defrost timers
- Child safety lock for added protection
- Smart sensor auto adjusts power and time
Cons
- Limited to 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
COMFEE' 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave
This compact microwave from COMFEE' packs useful features like a two-step child lock, mute function, and an ECO mode that reduces standby power by 50%. It offers one-touch express cooking, two defrost settings, and auto-cook presets, making it a solid choice for small kitchens or office break rooms.
Pros
- Child lock enhances safety
- Mute function for quiet operation
- ECO mode saves energy
- Versatile defrost options
- Compact size fits small spaces
Cons
- Small 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 700W may heat slower than higher wattage
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)
Frigidaire 0.7 Cu. Ft. Retro Microwave
This compact microwave blends retro style with modern convenience, featuring 700 watts of power and eight auto-cook presets. It's a good fit for small kitchens, dorms, or offices that need a space-saving yet capable appliance.
Pros
- Space-saving compact size
- Eight one-touch cooking menus
- Auto defrost function
- Easy-to-clean glass turntable
- Attractive retro aesthetic
Cons
- 700 watts may be slow for larger dishes
- Limited interior capacity for big plates
Nostalgia Retro 0.7 cu ft Microwave
This compact 0.7 cu ft microwave from Nostalgia combines retro styling with 700 watts of power. It features a rotating turntable for even heating, eight auto-cook programs, and a child safety lock, making it a practical choice for small kitchens or as a secondary appliance.
Pros
- Compact size fits small kitchens
- Rotating turntable for even heating
- 8 auto-cook programs simplify cooking
- 10 power levels for precise control
- Child safety lock prevents accidents
Cons
- 700W is less powerful than standard microwaves
- Small capacity not ideal for large dishes
- Lacks advanced features like sensor cooking
Best Reviewed Microwave Buying Guide
Size and Capacity
The size of a microwave is often the first consideration, as it must fit your countertop and handle your typical cooking loads.
Compact models (0.7 to 0.9 cubic feet) are ideal for small kitchens or dorm rooms, while midsize options (1.0 to 1.5 cubic feet) suit most households. Large microwaves (over 1.5 cubic feet) can accommodate bigger dishes and family-sized meals.
For a detailed look at space-saving options, see our guide to the best compact microwave.
When evaluating capacity, consider not only the interior volume but also the turntable diameter and clearance. A larger turntable allows for even heating of casserole dishes and dinner plates. External dimensions also matter: measure your available counter space accurately before purchasing.
Power and Wattage
Wattage directly affects cooking speed and evenness. Microwaves range from 700 watts to 1200 watts or more. Higher wattage (1000W and above) heats food faster and more uniformly, making it ideal for dense leftovers and defrosting.
Lower wattage models (700, 900W) are sufficient for basic reheating but may require longer cook times. For in-depth recommendations on high-power models, check out our favorite 1000-watt microwaves.
Keep in mind that a microwave’s advertised wattage is its maximum output. Some models offer variable power levels, allowing you to reduce intensity for delicate items like melting butter or simmering sauces. Inverter technology provides consistent power at any setting, improving cooking results.
Features and Presets
Modern microwaves come with a variety of convenience features. Sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power based on humidity, preventing overcooking. Pre-programmed presets for popcorn, pizza, potatoes, and beverages simplify common tasks.
Express cook buttons (like “Add 30 Seconds”) speed up quick reheats. For a comprehensive overview of what to look for, read the best microwave buying guide.
Additional features like inverter technology, keep-warm functions, and child lock add safety and versatility. Defrost settings with weight-based programming are particularly useful. Consider which presets you’ll actually use; too many can complicate the interface without adding real value.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
A microwave should be intuitive to operate daily. Look for a clear digital display, well-labeled buttons, and a responsive control panel. Push-button door release or handle design affects accessibility.
The interior should be easy to wipe down, stainless steel cavities resist stains and odors. For a closer look at user-friendly countertop models, see our roundup of countertop microwaves.
Removable turntables simplify cleaning. Some models offer a non-stick interior coating. Features like mute button (to disable beeps) and Eco mode (to reduce standby power) enhance everyday convenience. A well-designed door latch and smooth rotation also contribute to a pleasant user experience.
Design and Build Quality
The aesthetic of a microwave matters in an open kitchen. Options range from sleek stainless steel to retro colorways. Build quality influences long-term reliability: robust hinges, solid door seals, and durable exterior finishes are signs of a well-constructed appliance.
For advice on compact and stylish designs, refer to our guide to small countertop microwaves.
Consider the footprint and whether the microwave will sit flush against a backsplash. Many microwaves have rear venting that requires clearance; some models have bottom or side vents for tighter placements.
A neutral finish like stainless steel or black fits most kitchens, while colored retro models make a statement.
Why You Should Trust Us
BestProducts is an independent review site dedicated to helping you make informed purchasing decisions. We do not conduct our own product trials; our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback.
Every microwave in this roundup has been scored on our 0 to 10 BP Score based on consistent criteria: performance, features, build quality, and user satisfaction. Our affiliate relationships do not influence our rankings or recommendations.
We aim to provide transparent, unbiased guidance you can rely on.
Final Thoughts
Best Overall: TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.2 Cu.Ft, 1000W, With its excellent balance of power, capacity, and features, this Toshiba earned one of the highest BP Scores in our lineup, making it a reliable choice for most households.
Best Budget Pick: COMFEE’ Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.7 Cu.Ft, 700W, This compact model delivers solid performance at an affordable price, backed by a strong BP Score and a convenient Eco mode.
Best for Large Households: Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Countertop Microwave Oven, Its spacious interior and high wattage make it ideal for big families, earning top marks in our evaluation.
Best Retro Style: Nostalgia Retro 700W Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu Ft, For those who want a vintage look without sacrificing performance, this model stands out with its design and solid 9.8/10 BP Score.
For more kitchen appliance reviews, explore our appliances category.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a microwave for popcorn?
Yes, most microwaves have a popcorn preset, but for best results, we recommend using a microwave-specific popcorn popper. See our guide to the best microwave popcorn for tips and product picks.
Is an over-the-range microwave better than a countertop model?
Over-the-range microwaves save counter space and often include a vent hood, but they are more expensive and require installation. For detailed comparison, check out our article on above stove microwaves.
How do I cook eggs in a microwave?
You can poach or scramble eggs in the microwave using a dedicated egg poacher accessory. Explore our roundup of microwave egg poachers for safe and convenient results.
What is a microwave popcorn popper?
A microwave popcorn popper is a bowl designed to pop kernels evenly without oil. It reduces burnt kernels and cleanup time. Learn more from our microwave popcorn popper guide.
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.