The best selling microwave ovens provide unparalleled convenience and speed for everyday cooking and reheating tasks, making them essential appliances for busy households. When selecting a new microwave, consumers face a variety of choices, from compact models perfect for small spaces to feature-rich units designed for advanced meal preparation. Opting for a model that doesn’t align with your specific needs can lead to wasted counter space, inefficient performance, and a less satisfying user experience.
Factors like capacity, power output, pre-programmed settings, and ease of cleaning all contribute to a microwave’s effectiveness. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 best selling microwave ovens available, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your kitchen.
The best selling microwave ovens often feature capacities around 1.1 to 2.0 cubic feet and power outputs of 950 to 1200 watts, offering a balance of convenience and cooking performance. Models like the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS and GE Countertop Microwave Oven (2.0 Cu. Ft.) are popular choices, frequently including helpful presets and essential safety features such as a two-step child lock.
Best Selling Microwave Ovens at a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4″ Removable Best for: Spacious kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Best for: Minimalist users | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Best for: Family safe | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | GE Countertop Microwave Oven,1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8 Best for: Large families | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 1.1 Cubic Ft., 950-watt Capacity, Best for: Small kitchens | Check Price |
How We Picked
We prioritized the best selling microwave ovens based on core buyer needs: build quality, real-world performance, safety, durability, and standout features. Models like the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS and GE 1200-watt offer robust power and ample capacity. Safety was paramount, leading us to favor those with advanced child lock systems, as seen in several GE and TOSHIBA models.
We also considered convenience features like sensor cooking on the TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) and intuitive presets on BLACK+DECKER and Chefman units, ensuring practicality alongside reliable performance.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Power Levels for Perfect Results
Microwave ovens vary widely in wattage, impacting cooking speed and evenness. Look for models offering multiple power levels beyond just high. For instance, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS boasts 1000 watts, while the GE Countertop Microwave Oven offers 1200 watts. Lower power settings are crucial for delicate tasks like melting butter or reheating without scorching, ensuring your food is prepared precisely to your liking.
Turntable Size and Removability Matter
When selecting a microwave, pay attention to the turntable diameter. A larger turntable, like the 13.6-inch one in the TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS), accommodates bigger dishes, making it more versatile for family meals. Also, consider if the turntable is removable for easy cleaning.
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS features a 12.4-inch removable glass turntable, a practical detail for everyday use and maintenance.
1. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4″ Removable
Best for: Smart cooking for busy families.
1000 watts of cooking power in this TOSHIBA model heats food fast, with Smart Sensor Technology that automatically adjusts time and power based on humidity for perfectly cooked results every time.
This 1.2 cu. ft. microwave oven offers a generous 12.4-inch removable glass turntable, perfect for fitting larger plates, while the 10 power levels and 6 preset menus streamline common cooking tasks.
Pros
- 1000W sensor cooking for optimal results
- 1.2 cu. ft. capacity fits large dishes
- 12.4-inch turntable rotates food evenly
- ECO+Mute and Humidity Sensor functions
Cons
- Input power higher than output power (1600W vs 1000W)
Families needing consistently good meal preparation will appreciate the automatic adjustments of the Smart Sensor. It ensures that reheating leftovers or cooking meals is done right the first time without constant monitoring.
2. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute
Best for: Compact safety for small kitchens.
With 900 watts of cooking power, the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) offers efficient heating for everyday meals, complemented by a two-step child lock to ensure safety and prevent accidental use.
This compact 0.9 cu. ft. microwave boasts a 10.6-inch glass turntable to ensure even cooking, and provides 11 power levels for precise control over meal preparation. It includes 6 preset menus for popular foods.
Pros
- 900W output for quick heating
- 0.9 cu. ft. capacity for smaller spaces
- Two-step child lock for safety
- 11 power levels provide control
Cons
- Smaller 10.6-inch turntable
Ideal for apartments or smaller households, this microwave prioritizes safety and essential cooking functions. Its compact size fits easily on countertops without sacrificing performance.
3. BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child
Best for: Straightforward cooking with presets.
The BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 delivers 1000 watts of power for rapid heating, featuring 6 pre-programmed buttons for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
This 1.1 cu. ft. microwave offers 10 power settings, a clock, and kitchen timer, plus 30-second express cooking for quick additions. It includes a removable 12.4-inch glass turntable and a push-button door release.
Pros
- 1000W for efficient cooking
- 6 one-touch cooking programs
- 12.4-inch removable turntable
- Child safety lock included
Cons
- No sensor cooking function is listed
Home cooks who value simplicity and quick access to popular dishes will find this microwave a reliable choice. The clear display and straightforward controls make reheating and cooking simple.
4. GE Countertop Microwave Oven,1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8
Best for: Large capacity for family meals.
A 1200-watt heating element powers this GE countertop microwave, enabling fast cooking and reheating within its substantial 2.0 cu. ft. interior space.
This appliance features Sensor Cooking controls that automatically adjust time and power for optimal results, along with Weight and Time Defrost for convenience. The generous interior easily accommodates large dishes.
Pros
- 1200W power for serious cooking
- 2.0 cu. ft. capacity fits large items
- Sensor cooking adjusts automatically
- Defrost by weight or time
Cons
- Dimensions may be larger than desired for very small kitchens
For households that frequently cook or reheat large meals, this GE microwave offers ample space and powerful performance. The sensor cooking removes guesswork from meal preparation.
5. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 1.1 Cubic Ft., 950-watt Capacity,
Best for: Compact power for everyday use.
With 950 watts of power, this GE countertop microwave efficiently heats and cooks food, fitting easily into smaller kitchen spaces while offering a 1.1 cu. ft. interior.
This microwave comes with convenient one-touch operation and convenience cooking controls, including a kitchen timer and child lock. The glass turntable rotates throughout cycles for optimal, even cooking.
Pros
- 950W for effective heating
- 1.1 cu. ft. capacity for convenience
- One-touch operation is simple
- Child safety lock included
Cons
- Fewer preset cooking programs than some competitors
Individuals or small families seeking a reliable and space-saving microwave will benefit from its straightforward controls. It’s perfect for quick meals and reheating without taking up excessive counter space.
6. TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and 13.6″
Best for: Family-sized capacity with smart features.
The 1.6 cu. ft. capacity of this TOSHIBA microwave oven accommodates large dishes like a 13-inch pizza, while 1200 watts of power ensure efficient heating.
Smart sensor menus automatically optimize heating for popular foods, and the position memory turntable resets the glass plate to its initial spot after cooking. This model includes 10 power levels and one-touch popcorn.
Pros
- 1.6 cu. ft. capacity for large meals
- 1200W power for fast cooking
- Position memory turntable
- Smart sensor menus for popular foods
Cons
- Turntable size might be restrictive for extremely large, irregularly shaped dishes
This TOSHIBA model is ideal for larger families or those who entertain, offering significant capacity and smart cooking features. The position memory turntable adds a touch of convenience to everyday use.
7. COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode
Best for: Quiet operation and essential features.
The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB offers 700 watts of cooking power, ideal for everyday reheating and cooking tasks, with a convenient mute function to silence all beeps.
This 0.7 cu. ft. microwave features an easy one-touch express cooking function for 1-6 minutes and +30 seconds, plus two defrost settings. It also includes a child lock for added safety and an ECO mode.
Pros
- 700W for efficient reheating
- Mute function for quiet operation
- 0.7 cu. ft. compact size
- Child lock and ECO mode included
Cons
- Lower wattage (700W) means slower cooking than higher wattage models
For those who prioritize a quiet kitchen environment and basic, reliable cooking, this COMFEE’ microwave is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for dorm rooms, offices, or small apartments.
8. Chefman Compact Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700W with
Best for: Compact and powerful for quick meals.
This Chefman compact countertop microwave delivers 700 watts of power for rapid heating, with three popular presets for popcorn, beverages, and leftovers.
Featuring 10 power levels, from low to high, this 0.7 cu. ft. appliance allows for precise cooking control. Digital controls make it easy to set precise cook times for any meal preparation need.
Pros
- 700W for swift heating
- 0.7 cu. ft. compact footprint
- 10 distinct power levels
- Three useful presets
Cons
- Limited number of presets compared to some models
This Chefman microwave is perfect for individuals or small households needing a compact appliance for quick meals and reheating. Its ease of use and precise power control make it a practical kitchen addition.
9. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with
Best for: Versatile cooking in a small footprint.
The Chefman countertop microwave provides 700 watts of heating power for efficient cooking, featuring six popular presets designed for common food items like popcorn and pizza.
This 0.7 cu. ft. microwave offers 10 power levels for versatile cooking, from melting butter to rapid heating. Its digital controls make it easy to select the right settings for a variety of dishes.
Pros
- 700W output for quick cooking
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity fits easily
- 10 power levels for customization
- Six one-touch cooking programs
Cons
- No child lock feature listed
Ideal for smaller kitchens or personal use, this Chefman microwave offers a good balance of power and convenience. Its multiple presets and power levels make it suitable for a range of cooking tasks.
10. Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts
Best for: Simple operation for everyday reheating.
With 700 watts of output power, this Farberware countertop microwave prepares meals quickly, featuring six one-touch options for speed and convenience.
This 0.7 cu. ft. microwave offers ten power levels and multi-stage cooking for customized results, including defrost by weight or time. It easily handles tasks from reheating to cooking small meals.
Pros
- 700W for efficient meal prep
- 0.7 cu. ft. interior size
- Defrost by weight or time
- Six one-touch cooking options
Cons
- Limited capacity for larger dishes
This Farberware microwave is designed for users who need a straightforward appliance for everyday cooking and reheating. Its compact size and simple presets make it suitable for small kitchens or limited counter space.
Cavity Size Versus Wattage: The Real Trade-Off
When evaluating best selling microwave ovens, the actual cooking performance hinges on a deceptively simple, yet too often overlooked, balance: the interplay between internal cavity size and microwave output wattage.
While sheer capacity might seem paramount, a larger internal volume, such as the expansive 2.0 Cubic Ft. offered by the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8, can actually dilute the effectiveness of the microwave energy if the wattage doesn’t keep pace. Consider the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, boasting a respectable 1000 watts, which efficiently heats its 1.2 cubic foot interior.
Conversely, a compact unit like the Chefman Compact Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700W with, while small, delivers sufficient power for its size, making it practical for reheating single servings rapidly.
The mistake is assuming more space automatically equals better and faster cooking when, in fact, it often leads to longer cook times and uneven results without a commensurate increase in power.
The 1200-watt output of the TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and 13.6 provides a potent combination for its, presumably, standard cavity size, suggesting it will overcome the limitations that could plague a larger, less powerful model. Similarly, the BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child, with its 1000 Watts Output, is likely optimized for its internal dimensions to ensure consistent heating. When wattage is insufficient for the cavity, customers often compensate by over-cooking, leading to dried-out or rubbery food and negating the convenience a microwave should provide.
Ultimately, a 700-watt microwave, like the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts, is perfectly adequate for straightforward tasks like reheating leftovers or making popcorn in its smaller footprint.
However, attempting to cook larger portions in a substantially oversized cavity without sufficient wattage, as could be the case with the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 1.1 Cubic Ft., 950-watt Capacity, often proves disappointing, underscoring the critical importance of this wattage-to-volume ratio.
For those prioritizing efficiency and speed above all else, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft is a strong contender, offering ample power for its capacity.
What to Look For in Best Selling Microwave Ovens
Capacity and size
Consider the internal capacity, measured in cubic feet, and external dimensions to ensure a microwave fits seamlessly into your kitchen space. For instance, the Chefman Compact Countertop Microwave Oven offers a 0.7 cu. ft.
interior, suitable for smaller tasks, while the GE Countertop Microwave Oven boasts a more generous 2.0 cu. ft.
capacity with a 1200-watt output. Larger interiors often accommodate bigger dinner plates and facilitate cooking for more people. The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS, with its 1.2 cu.
ft. interior, features a 12.4-inch removable glass turntable, ample room for reheating a wide variety of dishes.
Always check the external dimensions, such as the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS‘s 20.6 x 14.6 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH), against your available counter space to prevent any fit issues. A larger turntable diameter, like the 13.6 inches found in the TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS), can improve even heating by allowing larger food items to rotate more freely.
Power and cooking functions
Microwave wattage output directly impacts how quickly and evenly food cooks; for instance, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS offers a robust 1000 watts of output power, while the GE Countertop Microwave Oven boasts an even higher 1200 watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking times, but also requires more precise power management. Many models, like the BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11, provide 10 power settings to fine-tune cooking, crucial for delicate items.
Beyond raw power, convenient preset cooking programs simplify meal preparation. Common presets include dedicated buttons for popcorn, potatoes, and frozen vegetables, as seen on the BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 and Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven models.
For even more advanced cooking, some microwaves feature sensor cooking technology. This technology, like the sensor menus on the TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS), automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on the food’s moisture level, ensuring optimal results without guesswork.
Convenience features
Many of today’s best-selling microwave ovens prioritize user-friendly operation and safety. Digital displays and controls offer precise time and power adjustments, as seen in models like the BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11, which boasts 10 power settings for tailored cooking. Additionally, safety features are paramount; for instance, both GE countertop models (2.0 CU.
FT. and 1.1 Cubic Ft.) and the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB include a two-step child lock to prevent accidental activation, a crucial element for households with young children.
An interior light, common across many units including the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS with its 12.4-inch glass turntable, illuminates the cooking space for easy monitoring. High-quality, easy-to-clean interiors, often made of materials designed for simple wiping, contribute to a hassle-free user experience, ensuring your microwave stays looking its best with minimal effort.
Quick Best Selling Microwave Ovens Buying Checklist
- Check Dimensions Ensure the microwave fits your available counter space.
- Evaluate Wattage Higher wattage generally means faster cooking.
- Consider Capacity Choose a size that suits your household’s needs.
- Review Presets Look for convenient one-touch cooking options.
- Assess Ease of Cleaning A non-stick interior simplifies maintenance.
- Safety First Verify features like child lock if applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Typical Wattage Range For Best Selling Microwave Ovens?
Best selling microwave ovens typically range from 700 to 1200 watts. This power output dictates how quickly food heats up; higher wattage, like 1000W or more, will generally cook or reheat food more rapidly than lower wattage models.
How Important Is The Interior Capacity When Choosing A Microwave?
Interior capacity is crucial for accommodating different food items and quantities. Smaller units around 0.7 cubic feet are good for basic reheating, while larger ones, 1.0 cubic feet or more, are better for family-sized meals or larger dishes.
What Are Essential Features To Look For In A Microwave For Everyday Use?
For everyday use, look for convenient features like one-touch presets for common foods such as popcorn or pizza, and particularly defrost functions that can thaw food without cooking it unevenly.
Are Sensor Cooking Features Beneficial In Best Selling Microwave Ovens?
Yes, sensor cooking is highly beneficial as it automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on humidity released from food. This prevents overcooking or undercooking, ensuring consistently better results for reheating and cooking various dishes.
What Makes A Microwave Easy To Clean?
Microwaves become easy to clean with a non-stick interior coating, often referred to as an enamel or ceramic finish, which resists food splatters. Removable glass turntables also simplify this task significantly.
Final Words
Investing in one of the best selling microwave ovens offers unparalleled speed and convenience for modern kitchens. From quick meal prep to easy reheating, these appliances streamline your daily routine. Explore your options today to find the perfect model that fits your needs and elevates your kitchen efficiency.
