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Best Microwave Oven

Best Overall
AmazonCommercial
4.5/5
Best Commercial
Amana Commercial HDC12A2
4.5/5
Best Countertop
Panasonic NN-SN686S
4/5

Best ovens

The best microwave ovens are set apart by a wide range of features and characteristics such as size, functionality, and ease of use. These depend on top performance and reliability being a given. The most reliable microwave oven is one that can be used continually without diminishing outcomes. Some of the most common use cases include warming up or reheating food. The best home microwave oven would be one that fits in with the rest of the decor. Users may also consider the size of the microwave oven, in this case. 

One of the most reliable ways to choose a microwave oven is by picking the top-rated microwave ovens. Sifting through microwave oven reviews will give users clear indications of what they can expect from them before purchasing their own. It provides insight into what other users like or don’t like about them. Looking at reliable brands such as Russell Hobb, Samsung, Panasonic, Breville, Kenwood, and De’Longhi.

This article will explore some top contenders for the best microwave oven. It will look at some of their core features and functions.

Our Top Microwave Oven Picks

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1. Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor

Features

The EM131A5C-BS is a microwave oven with a smart sensor. It features a pre-programmed sensor menu. This makes it effective at heating up popular foods to the right temperature. There are settings for foods like pizza, potatoes, and vegetables.

It is a fairly powerful device, courtesy of 1100 Watt power. This can be stretched out to 1550 Watt. The large LCD makes it easy for users to keep track of the timer as the microwave works. It is also notably effective for things such as popcorn which has a one-touch start button. There are two defrost settings. One allows the user to customize it. The other one is a pre-programmed one-pound automatic one. The power-saving mode means that the device will switch off when unattended for a period. Users can also mute the microwave buzzer. This feature may be useful for households with infants. 

Pros
Cons

2. Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 Retro Microwave Oven

Features

The GLCMKA07BER-07 is a 700 Watts microwave oven with a retro look. The child lock feature allows users to monitor the status of whatever they are preparing without having to open the door. 

 

It also places a barrier for unsupervised minors to use the microwave oven. The control panel is reasonably minimalist. This makes it easy for most people to use. The large LCD is easy to read. The defrosting feature can be set by time or weight. This is an effective way to achieve great outcomes without compromising the taste of the food. 

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3. Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S

Features

The NN-SN686S is a stainless steel countertop oven that uses inverter technology. It boasts an incredibly powerful 1200 Watt. The patented inverter technology ensures that food is heated consistently though and though. The even heat distribution not only preserves power but produces fairly good outcomes by preserving the taste of the food. 

There is also an advanced inverter turbo defrost that quickens the process. The turntable in this microwave is relatively thinner than you would find on similar devices. This preserves vital space for a larger interior capacity. The smart cooking setting courtesy of the genius sensor automates power and time adjustments based on the food. The delay start feature enables users to set when the device starts heating up their food. This is an effective feature for ensuring that food is ready for a specific time. This Panasonic microwave also has a child safety lock. 

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4. Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave

Features

The Farberware FMO10AHDBKC is a countertop microwave oven with a stainless steel finish. It features 10 power levels. These give users a greater degree of control. There are six cooking programs to automate the preparation of popular foods such as pizza, potatoes, and frozen vegetables. 

There is a relatively easy-to-read LED display to enable users to keep track of time as the microwave works. The control panel can also be locked as part of the child safety features. Defrosting can also be done by time or weight. This tailors the functions and power to the food thereby preserving flavor. Inside the microwave, there is a 12.5-inch glass turntable. It is large enough for most uses. Users can also easily remove it for cleaning. The express cooking or reheat feature means users can prepare their leftovers with a touch of a button.

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5. COMFEE' EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven

Features

The COMFEE’ ‎EM720CPL-PMB is a 700 Watt compact oven. It boasts eleven power features. The mute function is a perfect remedy for the noise most people associate with microwaves. 

This is ideal for households with infants. The intuitive control panel is suitable for users of all kinds. Pre-sets include common foods such as potatoes, pizzas, beverages, and dinner plate. There is a one touch express function that makes it easy for the machine to get going. Users can add thirty seconds increments with a touch of a button. Like other microwaves on our list, this one features a defrost system that can be set to weight or time. 

Pros
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6. Black+Decker EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven

Features

The Black+Decker EM720CB7 is a 700 Watt digital microwave oven. It features ten power settings. These include presets for popcorn, potato, pizza, and frozen vegetables. 

 

The large LED screen makes it easy for users to keep an eye on the timer and settings. The push-button door makes it easy to access the contents. Defrosting is handled by a time or weight set. This makes thawing frozen meat and vegetables straightforward. The express cook setting features a 30-second increment timer. This makes it easy to get started when one is not sure which setting to use. Additional features include a clock and a kitchen timer. These can be used independent of the microwave’s core function.

Pros
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7. Farberware FMO11AHTPLB 1.1 Cu. Ft. 1000-Watt Microwave Oven

Features

The FM011AHTPLB 1.1 CU. Ft. 1000-Watt microwave oven boasts ten power levels ranging between ten and one hundred. The express cooking feature allows users to select between one and six minutes.

These can then be adjusted by an additional thirty seconds with a  touch of a button. There are six one-touch cooking presets including beverages, potato, and popcorn. Users can also utilize the memory function to store and resume their preferences. As with other devices on this list the defrost function is done by weight or time. The glass turntable is easily removable for cleaning. The key padlock is a safety feature to restrict use.

Pros
Cons

8. Toshiba ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven

Features

The Toshiba ML-EM45P(BS) has a stainless steel finish. There are ten power levels included in the pre-programmed menu. These include the best setting for some of the most popular foods. The generous 1.6 cubic foot capacity means that users can fit more things at the same time thereby saving energy. 

 

It also features an energy-saving eco mode. The smart sensor tracks the humidity level as it is reheated. This allows it to automate time and temperature adjustments to achieve the best results. Defrosting can be done using the custom functions, by weight or automated from the defrost menu. When automated the microwave will adjust time and power based on the contents. The position memory feature means that users can access their dish or mug from the same angle that they put it in. This minimizes the risk of spillage and injury.  

Pros
Cons

9. AmazonCommercial Microwave Oven

Features

The AmazonCommercial microwave oven features five power levels and ten preset cook times. This programmable microwave allows users to combine different power labels for the best possible result. 

Custom programs can be loaded onto it via USB. It is a fairly compact commercial microwave that can be kept on a countertop. It is ideal for use in a restaurant. The body and interior feature stainless steel, which is an indicator of durability. The internal surfaces are fairly easy to clean. They can be wiped with a damp cloth. It also features a maximum cook time of one hour. This period can be divided into multiple cooking stages based on the programming. 

Pros
Cons

10. Amana Commercial HDC12A2 Heavy-Duty Microwave Oven

Features

The Amana Commercial HDC12A2 features 11 integrated power levels. There are 100 programmable items on the menu. These can be set to four cooking stages with the aforementioned power levels. There is a maximum of 60 minutes of cooking time. This microwave is easy to control courtesy of the touchpad. 

 

Users can utilize the LED display to keep track of functionality. Inside this device is a sealed ceramic shelf. It is effective at energy distribution which ensures even heating. The 0.6 cubic foot capacity provides plenty of room inside the microwave. This is a stackable device ideal for high-volume cooking environments. The stainless steel body does not easily exhibit signs of wear and tear. It also features a removable air filter that can be cleaned and placed. 

Pros
Cons

11. Frigidaire 2.2 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave

Features

The Frigidaire FFCE2238LW  is a countertop microwave with a 2.2 cubic feet capacity. It features a ready select control panel. Some of the core pre-sets include beverages and popcorn. The keep-warm feature is ideal for maintaining a steady temperature. This can be used for up to thirty minutes. 

The easy set start features a selection of times between one and six minutes. There are ten cooking power levels that can be run on two cooking stages. The warm and soften button is ideal for foods such as butter, chocolate, ice cream, and cheese. The defrost setting is time-based. The safety lock feature allows users to disable the control panel. The touch start button allows 30-second increments with the touch of a button. The sensor cook operation is for products that fall into categories such as potato, frozen vegetables, fresh vegetables, meat, seafood, and bacon. It works by measuring humidity. This feature is not ideal for food less than four ounces.

Pros
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12. Commercial CHEF 701 Watt Countertop Microwave Oven

Features

The Commercial CHEF 701 is a countertop microwave that boasts a compact design. It has 10 cooking power levels with the highest going up to 700 Watts of power. There are six one-touch quick cook menu options that come with presets. These include beverages, pizza, reheat, and frozen food. 

 

They make adjustments to power and time based on the contents. The turntable is removable for cleaning. The defrosting function can be timed or set to weight. The LED display has a digital clock that can be used as a kitchen timer. It is ideal for keeping track of the microwave. This microwave oven has a child-lock option that is a good safety feature. It can be engaged or disengaged in three seconds. 

Pros
Cons

13. Sharp SMC1585BB 1.5 Cu. Ft. 900W Convection Microwave Oven

Features

The Sharp SMC1585BB features a relatively large 1.5 cubic foot capacity. It is a convection microwave oven. The precise cook sensor technology has eight menu items that help users automate heating times and power levels for the best possible outcomes. This can be engaged through a one-touch option. 

There are twelve pre-sets that include re-heat and auto-defrost.  The inside of this device is stainless steel. This is a good indicator of durability and easy cleaning. The 14.4-inch ceramic turntable ensures even heat distribution. This is also helped by the precise cook sensor technology. The auto defrost function uses weight or time to automatically thaw meat, poultry, and other food. 

Pros
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Best Ovens

What are the best types of microwave ovens?

There are several types of microwaves ovens on the market. They generally fall into one or more of the following categories:

  • Commercial Microwave oven: Commercial microwave ovens have a higher internal capacity than other types. They can also run for longer periods. The best among them have extensive capacity for program customization based on the use case.
  • Combination microwave oven: A combination microwave oven utilizes traditional microwaves and hot air a more even distribution of heat.
  • Convection microwave oven: A convection microwave oven can be used for both heating and baking.
  • Over-the-range microwave oven: An over-the-range microwave oven is fixed above a cooking range. This is different from other types of microwaves that are placed on countertops.
  • Under-counter microwave oven: An under-counter microwave is a microwave that is attached underneath the counter. This is opposed to the ones placed on a countertop. 
  • Built-in microwave oven: A built-in microwave oven is an appliance that is built into the design and decor as part of the furniture. This can be within a custom-built cupboard or as a stand alone.
  • Wall microwave oven: A wall microwave oven is an oven that is attached to the wall. It can be mounted to the wall or placed on the countertop to fix to the wall. 
  • Smart microwave oven: A smart microwave oven is an appliance with a smart digital interface. It may allow custom programming. This may include connecting it to IoT devices such as Amazon Alexa.

What are the best commercial microwave ovens?

AmazonCommercial Microwave Oven, Commercial CHEF 701, and Amana Commercial HDC12A2 are some of the best commercial microwave ovens on the market. The AmazonCommercial boasts 10 preset cook times and a programmable multi-stage cooking. The Commercial CHEF 701 has a 0.7 Cubic. Ft capacity. The Amana Commercial HDC12A2 is a stackable microwave oven. All three commercial microwave ovens have high volume cooking capacity.

What are the best combination microwave ovens?

The Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven, ZLINE 24″ Built-in Convection Microwave Oven, and the Frigidaire FGMC2766UF 27 Inch Gallery Series Electric Microwave are three of the best combination microwave ovens. The Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 is a countertop microwave, broiler, air fryer, and convection oven. The ZLINE 24″ Built-in Convection Microwave Oven provides 1,000 watts of cooking power. Frigidaire FGMC2766UF has a 2.0 cubic feet Microwave Capacity and a 3.8 cubic feet Oven Capacity.

What are the best convection microwave ovens?

Sharp SMC1585BB, Toshiba ML-EM34P(SS), and Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S are some of the best convection microwave ovens. All three devices have a varied range of power levels to choose from. The SMC1585BB is a 900watt microwave convection oven. Toshiba ML-EM34P(SS) can be operated hands-free, courtesy of Amazon’s Alexa. It has 23 presets on its menu. The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S boasts 1200 Watt high power. It also has a keep warm feature. 

What are the best over-the-range microwave ovens?

The Galanz GLOMJB17S2ASWZ-10, FRIGIDAIRE FGMV17WNVF, and GE JVM3160RFSS are some of the best over-the-range microwave ovens. Galanz GLOMJB17S2ASWZ-10 is a convection oven that boasts a heated air circulation function. FRIGIDAIRE FGMV17WNVF has over 30 presets. The GE JVM3160RFSS boasts a stainless steel finish. It has a 1. 6 cu. ft. capacity and 1000 watts of power. 

What are the best under-counter microwave ovens?

The FRIGIDAIRE FGMO226NUF, Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S, ZLINE ‎MWD-1, and Frigidaire Professional FPMO227NUF are some of the best under-counter microwave ovens. The FGMO226NUF can be built into the counter. It boasts 30 preset options. The NN-SN686S boasts inverter technology and the Genius Sensor. It also has 1200W power. The ZLINE ‎MWD-1 has 11 levels of power to choose from. There is 1.2 Cubic Feet of internal space. The FPMO227NUF also has 1200W power. 

What are the best built-in microwave ovens?

Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN966S and Frigidaire Professional FPMO227NUF are some of the best built-in microwave ovens. The NN-SN966S is a stainless steel microwave oven that can be placed on a countertop or built-in. The Frigidaire Professional FPMO227NUF boasts 9 levels of power. It has one-touch options. The 2.2 Cu. Ft. Capacity provides plenty of room inside the device. 

What are the best wall microwave ovens?

Frigidaire FGMC2766UF, Cafe CSB913P2NS1, and FRIGIDAIRE FPMO3077TF are some of the best wall microwave ovens on the market. The FGMC2766UF has a 2.0 cubic feet Microwave Capacity and a 3.8 cubic feet Oven Capacity. The Cafe CSB913P2NS1 boasts 20 reheat programs. FRIGIDAIRE FPMO3077TF has a 1.6 cu. Ft. capacity. It has 9 power levels. 

What are the best smart microwave ovens?

Sharp ZSMC1449FS and Toshiba ML-EM34P(SS) are some of the best smart microwave ovens. The ZSMC1449FS is a stainless steel device that works with Alexa. It has a 1.4 cubic foot capacity. Toshiba ML-EM34P(SS) also works with Alexa. It boasts 1100W power and a 1.3 Cubic Foot capacity.

What functionality should you expect from a microwave oven?

A person can expect a reasonably high wattage of power, internal space, ease of use, and a range of presets from a microwave oven. Commercial microwave ovens tend to have the highest wattage in comparison to other types of devices. They also have a large internal space. A combination microwave oven can have varied capacity, with a difference between the oven and microwave capacity of the appliance.  

What should you know before buying a microwave oven?

There are several things that one should consider before buying a microwave oven. The most important thing to consider is how suitable the appliance is for the use case. This may also include looking at the space available to place the appliance when using it. Users should look at the internal size of the microwave oven. This determines what you can fit in it. 

Power is also vital to the function of a microwave oven. Users may consider how much power they would require based on their use cases. Commercial users would need a more powerful appliance than those in non-commercial settings. 

The material makeup of a microwave oven not only determines how well it will work, but also indicates how durable the appliance is likely to be. One of the most durable materials that is commonly used is stainless steel. 

Ease of use is worth considering. Most users will want a device that does not have a large learning curve. How easy it is to clean the device is also important. Surfaces that can be wiped will make this task easier. 

Users must also consider whether they would like a microwave oven that can be programmed. Commercial and smart microwave ovens often have the largest capacity for programmability. The best among them are the ones that can retain and reuse programs. Programs can be uploaded to these appliances via USB.

What is the average price range for the best microwave ovens?

The average price range for the best microwave ovens is between $100 and $2000. The lower end of this range features over counter appliances and some smart ones. In the mid-range are convection and built-in microwave ovens. Commercial, wall, and over-the-range microwave ovens tend to the priciest ones. 

The most expensive microwave ovens are usually the most powerful ones. They tend to have a wider range of presets and functions. In most cases, they will also have the best warranty covers. Prices should always be considered in the context of use cases. 

What is the main difference between a microwave oven and a convection oven?

The main difference between a microwave oven and a convection oven is their functionality. A microwave uses radiation (microwaves) to heat up food, while a convection oven spreads heat from a heat source throughout the device. Microwave ovens are quicker than convection ovens at heating food. Convection ovens have a heat retention capacity that microwave ovens do not. 

What microwave oven type is considered superior?

Commercial microwave ovens are considered superior to other types of microwave ovens. This is largely because of their higher cooking capacity. They also tend to have a larger internal space. Convection microwave ovens are considered superior to regular ones due to their additional baking functionality. 

Microwave ovens

What are the common mistakes for using a microwave oven?

The most common mistakes when using a microwave oven include using the wrong presets. All presets are designed and extensively tested on specific food. Using the inadequate presets will not deliver desired/expected outcomes. An example would be using the popcorn preset for reheating pasta. One of the most critical errors that users can make when using a microwave oven is placing materials that are not safe inside it. These may include metallic items. Users can refer to the product manual to learn the best way to use their microwave oven

What criteria define the best microwave oven?

The most vital criteria for choosing the best microwave oven include material, price, presets, functionality, and size. Considering material will give potential users a clear indication of how durable the microwave oven is likely to be. This will become even more relevant when considering how much to spend on an appliance. 

Finding the right price point will depend on matching functionality to durability. The most notable brand names are often pricier than lesser-known brands. This is not an indication of quality. 

Presets are an important criterion to consider. They make it easier for users to get the best performance out of their appliances. The more presets the device has the better it is in most cases. This would depend on a good user interface being in place.

Functionality including whether or not the microwave oven can be programmed is worth considering. This is one of the features that sets the best microwave ovens apart from others.

What type of reviews do the best microwave ovens have?

The most common complaint that microwave ovens receive is how noisy they can be when in use. This is a common complaint across all types of microwave ovens. Commercial microwave ovens are often praised for their large capacity. They are criticized for how expensive they can be.

Combination microwave ovens are often praised for their versatility. They add a heat retention aspect. Users often complain about how loud they can be.

Convection microwave ovens are often praised for being able to bake and reheat. They are criticized for their higher price point.

Over the range microwave ovens get good reviews for how powerful they can be. They are often criticized for requiring more effort to fit in. 

Under-counter microwave ovens get bad reviews for requiring their space requirements for fitting. They are praised for how well made they tend to be.

Wall microwave ovens are often criticized for how pricy they can be. They are praised for how sturdy they are. 

Smart microwave ovens are praised for their hands-free control capability. They are criticized for connectivity issues.

What are the best microwave oven brands?

Below are some of the best microwave oven brands:

  • GE

GE Appliances is an American home appliance manufacturer. They stock kitchen appliances including dishwashers, refrigerators, and ovens.

  • LG

LG is a well-known electronics brand with an extensive catalog that includes kitchen appliances. They stock smart microwave ovens among other appliances.

  • Hamilton Beach

Hamilton Beach is a kitchenware brand with a growing range of products. Some of their best products are juicers. They also stock microwave ovens.

  • Frigidaire

Frigidaire is an American consumer and commercial home appliances brand. They have a history spanning over 90 years of providing innovative kitchen appliances. 

How long do the top microwave ovens last?

The lifespan of the top microwave ovens largely depends on how they are used and looked after. They generally last between 5-20 years. Devices made of sturdy materials such as stainless steel tend to have a long lifespan. The most durable types of microwave ovens include built-in microwave ovens. 

Where to buy a microwave oven?

Microwave ovens can be purchased both online and in-store. Some of the best places to buy are:

Walmart: Average Prices range between $43 and $3000.00+. Delivers in 2-3 days.

Amazon: Average Prices range between $40.80 and $2450.00. Delivers in 1-2 days.

Best Buy: Average Prices range around $29.99 and $1199.99. Delivers in up to 5 days. 

Home Depot: Average Price ranges between  $30.99 to $830+. Delivers in 2 days.

Some of them are directly available to buy from their manufacturers. 

What are the other best kitchen tools?

This article has covered various microwave ovens. There are other kitchen tools that you can use together with your microwave oven. Some of them are:

  • Juicer
  • Toaster
  • Blender

These can be purchased from the same brand or in the same color to complement existing decor. 

Why Trust Kitchen Infinity?

Our writers and reviewers thoroughly research every aspect of kitchen appliances or home improvement products so you can make a well-informed decision when investing in these products. We evaluate top quality products from several brands within budget friendly price ranges and contrast consumer reviews, surveys, satisfaction forms, brand performance, and annual appliance rankings. We go to great lengths to ensure that your next buy is worth every penny!

Dino Paccino

Dino Paccino

Dino is a lifelong writer and home improvement specialist. He enjoys bringing cutting-edge information on home renovation and remodeling to Kitchen Infinity.

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