In today’s fast-paced world, the microwave oven has become an essential appliance for modern kitchens. Whether you need to quickly defrost, reheat leftovers, or cook a full meal, having a reliable and efficient microwave can save you valuable time and effort. With a plethora of options available in the market, this post aims to streamline your search by presenting the top 6 microwave ovens that are perfectly suited for modern kitchens. So, if you’re in the market for a new microwave, keep reading to discover the best options that combine functionality, style, and convenience.
1. Farberware 1000W Countertop Microwave – LED Lighting, Child Lock
8.9
Overall
The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a powerful and compact microwave oven that is perfect for apartments and dorms. It features a sleek and simple design, easy-to-clean stainless steel construction, and convenient LED lighting. However, some users may find it to be a little loud and the inputting of a specific cook time can be fiddly.
Efficient and Safe
- Compact size
- Powerful heating capacity
- Sleek and simple design
- Easy to clean
Limitations
- Can be a little loud
- Unusually fiddly when inputting a specific cook time
The Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts, 1.1 cu ft is a convenient and powerful microwave oven perfect for office break rooms, home kitchens, apartments, and dorms. With one-touch cooking programs, you can easily cook six popular food items with just the touch of a button. The microwave offers ten power levels up to 1000 watts, allowing for precise cooking. The large digital screen displays a clock feature, countdown timer, and remaining cook time. The memory function lets you customize and save your favorite settings. With its easy-grip handle and child-safety lock, this microwave is both user-friendly and safe. It is also easy to clean, making it a practical and stylish addition to any kitchen or countertop.
Product Features
- 1000 Watts of output power
- 1.1 cu ft capacity
- LED lighting
- Child lock feature
- Perfect for apartments and dorms
- Easy clean stainless steel construction
2. Toshiba EM925A5A-BS Countertop Microwave Oven
8.9
Satisfactory performance
The TOSHIBA EM925A5A-BS Countertop Microwave Oven offers efficient heating, a variety of preset cooking options, and a spacious interior. It operates quietly, is easy to clean, and is energy-efficient. However, some users may find the loud closing sound and confusion with the power level button to be minor drawbacks.
Positive Features
- Efficient heating
- Variety of preset cooking options
- Spacious interior
- Quiet operation
- Easy to clean
- Energy-efficient
Disadvantages
- Loud closing sound: The microwave makes a loud thunk when closing, which can be a bit noisy
- Power level button confusion: The power level button may not work if not properly understood and used according to the manual
The TOSHIBA EM925A5A-BS Countertop Microwave Oven is a stylish and sleek kitchen appliance with a timeless black stainless steel design. It features a 0.9 cu ft capacity and a 10.6-inch removable turntable, allowing for even heating and easy cleaning. With a power output of 900W, this microwave offers efficient and fast cooking. It also includes 6 pre-programmed auto menus for popular foods like popcorn and pizza, as well as a defrost function. Other convenient features include a mute function, ECO mode, child lock, LED lighting, and a user-friendly control panel. Overall, this microwave combines functionality, modern design, and advanced features to enhance the cooking experience in any kitchen.
The TOSHIBA EM925A5A-BS Countertop Microwave Oven has received positive reviews from customers. They appreciate its stylish appearance, compact size, and powerful performance. The microwave is noted for being both efficient and quiet during operation, making it a reliable and convenient kitchen appliance. Customers particularly like the mute function, which allows for silent operation, and the spacious interior that can accommodate large plates and dishes. The removable turntable and stainless steel interior make cleaning easy, while the energy-efficient design is a bonus for both the environment and cost savings. Overall, customers highly recommend this microwave for its reliability, efficiency, and attractive design.
Advanced Cooking Technology
- Stylish black stainless steel design
- 0.9 cu ft capacity
- 10.6 inch removable turntable
- 900W power output
- 6 auto menus for popular foods
- Mute function & ECO mode
- Child lock
- LED lighting
3. GE 3-in-1 Microwave Oven | Air Fryer, Broiler & Convection Mode
8.7
Reliable and versatile
The GE 3-in-1 Microwave Oven is a versatile and space-saving appliance, ideal for countertops or dorm rooms. With its high capacity and powerful performance, it delivers efficient and fast cooking results. The stainless steel construction adds durability and a modern look to any kitchen. While some customers have mentioned difficulties with the door and settings panel, overall, the product has received positive reviews for its performance and reliability, with the Combi mode being a standout feature.
Benefits of the GE 3-in-1 Microwave Oven
- Versatility: The GE 3-in-1 Microwave Oven offers a range of cooking options, including air frying, broiling, and convection mode, making it a versatile appliance for various cooking needs
- Space-saving: With its compact design, this microwave oven is ideal for countertops or dorm rooms where space may be limited, allowing for efficient use of kitchen space
- High capacity: With a 1.0 cubic feet capacity, this microwave oven provides ample space for cooking larger portions or multiple dishes at once
- Powerful performance: With 1,050 watts of power, this microwave oven delivers efficient and fast cooking results, ensuring that food is cooked evenly and thoroughly
- Stainless steel construction: The stainless steel exterior not only adds a sleek and modern look to any kitchen but also provides durability and easy cleaning
- Positive customer reviews: Based on customer reviews, the GE 3-in-1 Microwave Oven has exceeded expectations and has been praised for its performance and reliability
- Combi mode: The Combi mode, as mentioned in one of the reviews, is a standout feature that combines different cooking methods, offering even more cooking possibilities and convenience
Limitations
- The door opens from the right, which can make it harder to access and clean
- The settings panel is difficult to read and not intuitive, requiring a flashlight and online instructions
The GE 3-in-1 Microwave Oven is a versatile and efficient kitchen essential for any countertop or dorm room. With its air fryer, broiler, and convection modes, this microwave offers a wide range of cooking options. Its 1.0 cubic feet capacity and 1,050 watts power ensure that you can cook your favorite foods quickly and easily. Made with stainless steel, this microwave oven is not only durable but also adds a sleek and modern touch to any kitchen decor. Whether you’re air frying healthier versions of your favorite foods or using the convection mode for crispy and golden results, this GE microwave oven delivers on its promises and provides a convenient solution for all your cooking needs.
Versatile Cooking Options
- 3-in-1 functionality: Air fryer, broiler, and convection modes
- 1.0 cubic feet capacity
- 1,050 watts of power
- Stainless steel construction
- Ideal for countertops or dorm rooms
4. BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven, 700W, Stainless Steel
8.7
Good value
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door is a user-friendly and efficient microwave that offers convenient features such as pre-programmed buttons, multiple power settings, and a child safety lock. While it may have some minor issues, such as the tendency to move when opening the door and a smaller interior size, overall it is a good value for the price.
Efficient and Stylish
- Bigger size than expected
- Looks fantastic
- Good value for the price
- Fairly quiet operation
Cons
- The microwave tends to move when opening the door, requiring additional support
- The interior size may be too small for cooking larger meals
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door is a stainless steel microwave oven with a 0.7 cu.ft capacity. It features pre-programmed buttons for popular food items, such as popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage, and dinner plate. With 700 Watts and 10 power settings, it offers versatility for different cooking needs. The microwave also includes a clock and kitchen timer, 30 seconds express cooking, large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, and interior light. While it may not be the quietest option, it is easy to use and suitable for small spaces. Overall, it provides good value for its size and functionality.
Key Features
- Pre-programmed buttons for easy and quick cooking options
- 700 Watts with multiple power settings for precise cooking control
- Convenient clock and kitchen timer for added functionality
- Large LED digital display and easy-to-read control panel for user-friendly operation
- Child safety lock to prevent accidents and ensure peace of mind
- Interior light for better visibility while cooking
5. Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven
8.7
Mixed performance
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven offers efficient cooking with even heating, a variety of convenient features, and a sleek black design. However, previous models have had issues with tripping GFCI outlets, uneven heating, and premature failure.
Key Features
- Efficient cooking with even heating
- Easy-to-use touch pad with quick touch options
- Instruction label for easy reference on cooking settings
- Quiet operation compared to other microwaves
- Option to turn off keypad beep noise
- Child safety lock feature
- Stylish black color that complements kitchen decor
Cons
- Previous model had issues with tripping GFCI outlets
- Previous model had uneven heating issues and premature failure
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven is a sleek and stylish addition to any kitchen. With its 1.2 cubic feet capacity and 1100 watts of power, it is the perfect size for apartment kitchens or office break rooms. The smart humidity sensor and 12 auto menus ensure optimal heating of popular foods like pizza, potatoes, and veggies. The large digital display with clock function and countdown timer makes it easy to keep track of cooking time. The easy-to-grip door handle and easy clean interior add to the convenience of this microwave. Additionally, the mute function, ECO mode, and black stainless steel exterior make it a versatile and attractive choice.
Advanced Cooking Technology
- Pre-programmed sensor menu for easy heating of various food items
- 1.2 Cu Ft capacity to accommodate large dishes, including a 12-inch pizza
- Removable turntable for convenient cleaning and maintenance
- Smart humidity sensor for precise cooking and reheating
- 12 auto menus for quick and hassle-free meal preparation
- Mute function for noise-free operation
- ECO mode for energy-saving usage
- Easy clean interior for effortless maintenance
- Sleek black color for a stylish appearance in any kitchen
- 1100W power wattage for efficient and fast cooking
6. Farberware 0.7 cu ft Microwave with LED Lighting and Child Lock
8.4
Compact and reliable
The Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts is a compact and easy-to-use microwave with LED lighting and a child lock feature. While its small size may limit the capacity for certain items, such as popcorn bags, and its power may not be as strong or efficient as other microwaves, it is a great option for apartments and dorms.
Advantages of Farberware Microwave
- Compact size
- Easy to use
- LED lighting
- Child lock feature
Drawbacks
- Small size limits capacity for certain items, such as popcorn bags
- Power may not be as strong or efficient as other microwaves
The Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts, 0.7 cu ft is a convenient and compact microwave oven perfect for apartments and dorms. With 700 watts of output power and a range of settings, it allows for quick and easy meal preparation. The microwave features ten power levels with multi-stage cooking, allowing for customization based on individual needs. The easy-to-clean grey interior and retro black design add a touch of style to any kitchen. Additionally, it has LED lighting and a child lock for added convenience and safety. Overall, this microwave offers a powerful and efficient solution for fast and convenient cooking.
Convenient and Safe Microwave Features
- 700 Watts of output power
- 0.7 cu ft capacity
- LED lighting
- Child lock feature
- Easy clean grey interior
- Retro black design
Comparing Microwave Options
Top Microwave Oven Brands
- Panasonic
- LG
- Samsung
- Whirlpool
- Kenmore
- GE
- Sharp
- Toshiba
- Breville
- Cuisinart
Frequently Asked Questions about Microwave Ovens
What are some popular brands known for manufacturing high-quality microwave ovens?
Some popular brands known for manufacturing high-quality microwave ovens include Panasonic, LG, Samsung, Whirlpool, and Breville. These brands are recognized for their reliable performance, durability, and innovative features in the microwave oven market.
What safety precautions should be taken while using a microwave oven?
When using a microwave oven, it is important to take certain safety precautions to prevent accidents and ensure safe operation. Here are some recommended safety measures:
- Read the manual: Familiarize yourself with the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines provided in the user manual. This will help you understand the specific safety features and operation procedures of your microwave oven.
- Check for damage: Before using the microwave, inspect it for any visible damage such as a cracked door, faulty seals, or damaged power cords. If any issues are found, do not use the appliance and contact a professional for repair.
- Use microwave-safe containers: Only use microwave-safe cookware and containers made of materials such as glass, ceramic, or microwave-safe plastics. Metal, aluminum foil, and containers with metallic accents should be avoided as they can cause sparks and potential fire hazards.
- Avoid overheating: Do not operate the microwave oven when empty as it can damage the appliance. Always place food or a container with liquid inside when heating or cooking.
- Use microwave-safe covers: When cooking or reheating food that may splatter, cover the container with a microwave-safe lid or vented plastic wrap to prevent any mess and potential burns.
- Stir and test temperature: After microwaving food, stir it thoroughly to distribute the heat evenly and prevent hot spots. Before consuming, check the temperature to ensure it has been heated to a safe level to avoid burns.
- Be cautious when removing food: Use oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves when taking out hot dishes or containers from the microwave oven. Steam or hot contents can cause burns if not handled carefully.
- Keep a safe distance: Maintain a safe distance from the microwave while it is in operation. Avoid leaning or placing any objects on top of the microwave to prevent accidental spills or falls.
- Child safety: If there are children around, keep the microwave out of their reach or use child safety locks if available. Children should be supervised when using the microwave to avoid accidents.
- Clean regularly: Keep the microwave oven clean by wiping spills and food debris after each use. Regular maintenance will help prevent the buildup of grease, which can be a fire hazard.
How does the size of a microwave oven impact its functionality?
The size of a microwave oven can impact its functionality in several ways.
Firstly, the internal capacity of a microwave oven correlates directly with the amount of food it can accommodate. A larger microwave oven will have more space to fit larger dishes or multiple items at once, allowing for more efficient cooking or reheating of larger quantities of food. Conversely, a smaller microwave oven might have limited space and may only be suitable for smaller portions.
Secondly, the size of a microwave oven can affect its power output. Larger microwaves generally have higher wattage, which means they can heat food more quickly and evenly. This can be particularly advantageous when cooking or defrosting larger, denser items, as the higher wattage can help ensure thorough and consistent heating.
Additionally, the physical dimensions of a microwave oven also play a role in its functionality. A larger microwave might have additional features or cooking options, such as convection or grill functions, which can expand its capabilities beyond basic microwave heating. Conversely, smaller microwaves might be more compact and suitable for limited counter space or small kitchens.
In summary, the size of a microwave oven impacts its functionality by determining its internal capacity, power output, and available features, all of which can affect the efficiency and versatility of cooking or reheating food.