It comes equipped with all the features you would ever want in a microwave… In our tests, microwaves with inverters did a good job reheating food evenly and excelled at baking potatoes, but couldn’t defrost ground beef as well as regular microwaves. Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. A smart sensor feature takes the guesswork out of reheating food — it measures the humidity in the food and adjusts the time and power level automatically. We love the kitchen timer that can work simultaneously with the cook cycle. The soften/melt preset for chocolate, butter, and cheese runs on a lower power setting to prevent it from burning or getting too hot. To test countertop microwaves, we evaluate how well they melt cheese, "bake" potatoes, reheat both a mac and cheese casserole and a dinner plate of meatloaf with sides, defrost a pound of frozen ground beef, and pop popcorn. | Weight: 22 lb. Because of the high wattage, it will cook food much more quickly than a lower-watt microwave, so you may have to use shorter times than you normally would if you happen to be upgrading. Also, they are generally more affordable — most of the countertop microwaves we've evaluated over the past decade were under $300 and many of our best microwaves in 2020 are under $100.Over the years, the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Kitchen Appliances and Technology Lab has researched and evaluated hundreds of microwaves to find top performing models from brands we trust. As a reference point, the interior dimensions are about 12 x 13 x 8 inches. It can also be mounted onto the wall, although it doesn’t have a venting system like most over-the-range microwaves. We love the keep warm feature that runs for up to 30 minutes after a cook cycle ends — it can be added in the beginning of the cook cycle! While it is relatively compact, its a 1.2-cubic-foot interior is more than enough to fit a dinner plate or large bowl. Instead of a numeric keypad, you get an ergonomic dial that feels like it clicks as it toggles through minutes and seconds quickly. Typically, microwaves mimic low heat by turning the power on and off repeatedly, which can result in uneven cooking. Check out the quick reviews below of our top five microwaves, or scroll deeper for more helpful buying info and full reviews of those models plus other high-ranking options. It features a mute button (hold the 8 down for five seconds) to turn off beeps and alerts when the cooking time ends. Convection microwaves, also known as microwave ovens, have a sort of heating element that allows food to be browned and grilled. Let’s analyze the top 5 countertop microwaves in the market today; 1. Reliable heating in seconds, and a reasonable size for average countertops. “My mother has Macular Degeneration Disease,” wrote an Amazon reviewer. a venting system like most over-the-range microwaves, These Slow Cookers Will Be Perfect for All Your Recipes, We Tested Kitchen Knives So You Can Find the Best Cutlery, Avanti Countertop Microwave Oven MO1108SST Review, Whirlpool Countertop Microwave Oven (1.1 cu. Keep in mind that this is a compact microwave with a 700-watt power output, which is on the lower end and means it will take longer to heat food. Looking for the best modern countertop microwave? Myo Quinn is a professionally trained chef, recipe developer, food writer and on-air talent. We previously recommended a smaller version of this countertop microwave and still stand by it. Depending on the model, you can also have the countertop or over-the-range microwave built into your kitchen setup. Farrell. Best Sellers in Countertop Microwave Ovens #1 Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor Easy Clean Interior, ECO Mode and Sound On-Off, 1.2 Cu.ft, Black Stainless Steel, Cu. At this level, food will cook evenly and efficiently. The biggest complaint is that the interior light is a bit dim, so if you’re someone who likes to watch your food while it’s cooking, you might be disappointed. Written by. There are generally two types of microwaves—conventional and convection. It has a timer, a power level button, an add 30 seconds button, and three presets for popcorn, timed defrost, and weight defrost. And although it’s small, it still has room for a … In addition to its convection abilities, this microwave has all the capabilities of a typical microwave too—so don’t worry, movie lovers, there is a still a popcorn button. But along with higher wattage comes a steeper price. Nowadays, it seems almost impossible to exist without the convenience of a microwave. Consumer Score: 70% rated it 4 stars or higher. The FDA regulates microwaves, making sure that radiation does not escape. Size: 2.2 cubic feet | Wattage: 1,200 | Exterior: Stainless steel | Outer Dimensions (WxDxH): 20 x 24 x 14 in. Still, some research is required to ensure you get a microwave that fits your needs—and your space. Best Product Reviews, According to Experts and Consumers, How to Build a Classy Concrete Countertop, Reuse this Notebook by Popping It in the Microwave. The sensor cook button has an impressive 14 presets from oatmeal to fish fillets, but hold onto your owner’s manual because those are a lot of codes to remember. The sleek design features a few simple buttons, including popcorn, reheat, and defrost. The size is large enough to cook a frozen pizza or even a small chicken. With a capacity of 1.6 cubic feet, this microwave boasts a smooth easy-to-clean control panel and a large interior, making it a great model for big families. The options are limitless, fam. Microwaves have evolved since their … Also, they are generally more affordable — most of the countertop microwaves we've evaluated over the past decade were under $300 and many of our best microwaves in 2020 are under … While microwaves can be countertop, over-the-range, or built-in units, we’re focusing on countertop models, which are the most popular in most homes, apartments, and dorm rooms. Consumer Score: 86% rated it 4 stars or moreReliable heating in seconds, and a reasonable size for average countertops. It is completely sealed and that mesh layer inside the door blocks the waves from getting out. ), frozen dinner, and reheat, and one-touch express buttons for one to six minutes. Two factors make this Panasonic microwave fast: it has 1,250 watts of heating power, one of the highest we tested, and a built-in inverter that helps heat food more quickly and evenly. You can spend less than $100 on a small countertop microwave or five times that on a … Voice control by Alexa has got you covere. ft.) MT4110SPB Review. Our Favorites. The Farberware Countertop Microwave oven is an attractive budget option equipped with a massive set of features to satisfy all your daily needs. Ideal combination of price, size, useful features, and power level. If you have limited counter space or simply need a microwave for reheating or cooking small amounts of food, this compact Black + Decker microwave is a great choice. The Westinghouse WCM770SS is one of the best and top-rated microwave ovens on the market. Consumer Score: 86% rated it 4 stars or more. Thanks to its 2.2-cubic-foot interior, it can fit an entire casserole, a mountain of pizza bites, or a family-sized bag of popcorn. Regardless of the size of your kitchen, or the kind of foods you prepare, a microwave oven is an essential kitchen appliance. Quiet and compact for midnight snacks in tiny dorm rooms. The convection technology allows you to cook, warm, and even roast. A child lock prevents the microwave from operating either manually or by voice. | Weight: 45 lb. Dimensions: 21.2 x 16.1 x 11.8 inchesWattage: 1,000 wattsSize: 1.1 cubic feet. So, when you hit start, the microwave will cook your food however you've … Consumer Score: 93% rated it 4 stars or higher. Countertop microwaves have become popular once again because of how the oven range has transformed. Extra large, with a child lock to keep your family safe and well fed. | Weight: 23 lb. It’s loaded with features like a quick 30, a more and a less button to adjust cook times by 10-second increments, a quick-minute timer, delay start feature, and a child safety lock. While it’s not the most powerful at 600 watts, it heats evenly and quietly—though, like with most microwaves, an audible ding lets you know it’s done cooking (if you don’t want to wake your roommate, pop open the door before that happens). Size: 0.5 cubic feet | Wattage: 750 | Exterior: Black, silver, or white | Outer dimensions (WxDxH): 15 x 13.75 x 14 in. Dimensions: 21.8 x 19.1 x 12 inches Wattage: 1,250 wattsSize: 1.6 cubic feet. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Voice control by Alexa has got you covered. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io, 7 Best Over-the-Range Microwaves for Your Kitchen, What to Look for Before Buying a Microwave, Whirlpool Recalls Microwaves Due to Fire Hazard, Black and Decker Convection Countertop Oven, Black and Decker Extra Wide Convection Oven, DeLonghi Digital Convection Toaster Oven #DO2058 Review. Here are our top picks for the best countertop microwaves you can buy in 2020, including a combination of ones we tested, tried out at home, and recommend based on specially unique features and top reviews: We put together a complete guide to help you shop for your next microwave. This tiny microwave is designed for small spaces like dorm rooms and efficiency apartments. Unlike built-in or over-the-range microwaves, countertop microwaves do not require any special installation and can easily be moved. Mary H.J. How we test gear. If you are looking for the best microwaves or best small microwaves for home use, let Gadget Review inform you with our microwave reviews for 2018. It features pre-programmed buttons for defrost, reheat, popcorn, beverage, and a food menu that houses the presets for “baked” potatoes, reheating pizza, and defrosting frozen vegetables — they are coded, so it may take a few tries to remember which code goes with which function. The microwave alone is about $60, an inexpensive option, but it has to be connected to an Alexa-enabled device, like an Echo or Echo Dot that ranges from $40 to $80 in order to use the voice-activated functions. The COSORI Smart Air Fryer Toaster Oven is an all-in-one appliance that features 12 cooking presets that give you delicious results every time no matter what you're cooking - yep, 12! November 11, 2020 by Jamie. A mute button turns off all beeps and the soft-close door claims to be 80 percent quieter than most microwaves in the market. Home » Reviews » 8 Best countertop microwave ovens in 2020! This is the most common type of microwave, perfect for heating a bowl of soup, making popcorn, or testing how big a Peep can get before exploding. ... Toshiba 0.9 Cubic Feet Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave Oven. These are often larger, so they can fit and fully cook a frozen pizza. Consumer Score: 82% rated it 4 stars or higherQuiet and compact for midnight snacks in tiny dorm rooms. For years, there wasn't much innovation in microwave technology — that is until Amazon introduced its own AmazonBasics microwave that allows you to use simple voice commands to prompt it to heat your food. Best microwave countertop reviews in 2020. These smart sensors can adjust the cook time after it measures the amount of steam released by the food. Best Countertop Microwaves of 2020. We researched 10 expert sources such as Good Housekeeping, Consumer Reports, and The Spruce, as well as 34,000 consumer reviews to select the top 6 microwaves of the year. Instead of a number pad, time can be increased or decreased with a plus and minus sign on either side of the time display. [Buyer’s guide included] [Buyer’s guide included] Disclosure: Ravvyreviews.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC … We love the handle bar, instead of the push button, to open the door, which is more ergonomic. Some of the key functions on the control panel are black lettering over a grey background, which can make it difficult to see in dim lighting. And now you know what to expect in a microwave oven and what features and accessories can make all the difference in your choice of a microwave. The most prominent feature may be its unique shape—the rounded back allows it to fit neatly in a corner without taking up any extra space on the countertop, making it an ideal pick for kitchens with limited counter space. 45–47) have trustworthy microwave reviews that we read while researching this guide. Whether you’re looking for something to sit snugly in a dorm room or big enough to reheat an entire pizza, it’s important to be aware of the inner and outer dimensions. This Hamilton Beach microwave may be low-priced, but it doesn’t equate to poor performance. Plus today's countertop microwaves can do so much more than warming up leftovers, heating frozen meals, and making popcorn. Dimensions: 12 x 19.1 x 21.8 inchesWattage: 1,250 wattsSize: 1.6 cubic feet, Helping Kids Process Grief Over Celebrity Deaths, Everyone Assumes My Family Is White, and We're Not, This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. a complete guide to help you shop for your next microwave. We love microwaves for their convenience, versatility, and relatively low price-point. Inverters help deliver power continuously without the stop and go. ... GE 1.1 Cu. In our tests, it cooked food evenly without cold spots and delivered perfectly steamed broccoli using its sensors. Despite its low cost, it has something most microwaves do not—voice control. Popular Mechanics participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. Through voice commands, you can access more smart features like say “defrost eight ounces of ground beef” or “reheat one cup of coffee.” Amazon continues to add new presets. The Best Small Microwaves. Turn to These Battery Packs, Airstream’s Latest Flying Cloud is For Remote Work, The Best Trimmers for Taming Your Facial Hair. Countertop microwaves come in a variety of sizes, and their … Toshiba EM925A5A-SS Microwave Oven B076V72BZ6. There’s a lot more to microwaves than differences in size, settings, price, and appearance—the most important feature being wattage. Microwaves with multi-stage cooking capability — like the Kenmore Countertop Microwave — let you program in each stage. Still, there’s room for a medium bowl or dinner plate, and definitely enough room to fit a ramen bowl or frozen dinner. This 1.2 cubic feet Toshiba has the perfect combination of price, size, and power. The microwave also uses inverter technology, which works to heat consistently even on lower power settings such as “melt” and “warm.”. Also, the higher the wattage, the faster the cooking time. A 10-inch dinner plate fits, but nothing larger. This Panasonic microwave has long been one of our favorites since we first tested it about a decade ago. The main downside of countertop microwaves is that they take up valuable counter space, which can be frustrating if you have a small kitchen. Donna Currie. Dimensions: 20.5 x 17.1 x 12.8 inchesWattage: 1,100 wattsSize: 1.2 cubic feet. You can also adjust the power level from one to ten to a maximum of 1,100 watts, the ideal power output for the widest range of uses. It is available in black, stainless steel, and white. While it’s easy to be in the mindset that more expensive equals better, that isn’t necessarily true with this Panasonic. Size: 1.2 cubic feet | Wattage: 1,200 | Exterior: Black plastic | Outer dimensions (WxDxH): 15.8 x 20.7 x 12.2 in. If you have limited countertop space and primarily use your oven for reheats and popcorn, the best microwave for you is the GE JES1072SHSS. In addition to being childproof, this GE microwave is completely family friendly with easy-to-use buttons and 1,200 watts of power. Despite its tiny size, it can fit a full dinner plate. Perhaps because of this universal necessity, there are more options than you could care to know about. It’s perfect for a college student. It has all the necessary features and more: presets for popcorn, pizza, and veggies, a child safety lock, one-touch express buttons for one to six minutes, and an add 30 seconds button. Admin April 30, 2020. Try steaming veggies, like spaghetti squash and potatoes, crisping bacon, and even making poached eggs — and you'll get delicious results much faster than from a stove top or oven. ft Some reviewers have reported that it makes a loud whooshing noise, but it doesn’t affect how well food heats. Back in the late 90s and early 2000s, it was almost standard for a microwave … 2020 Audi A7 Review. Consumer Score: 93% rated it 4 stars or higherSmall but mighty, this microwave can fit in the tiniest of spaces. Actually measure, rather than eyeball, your space’s dimensions to compare it to the microwave’s outer dimensions to make sure it’ll fit. We have the most powerful, versatile, and affordable models for you to choose from! You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io, Phone Need a Jump? “This microwave is perfect for her. Most inner dimensions range from a half cubic foot for a small dinner plate up to one to two cubic feet for larger cookware. Convection microwaves, also known as microwave ovens, have a sort of heating element that allows food to be browned and grilled. Consumer Score: 70% rated it 4 stars or higherThis extra-large microwave with a child lock will keep your family well fed. The manual microwave functions will work without Alexa just like any other microwave, but the features on the control panel are limited. We love that it remains locked even when unplugged and plugged back in. It also has a smart sensor that detects the amount of steam released by the food and adjusts both power level and cooking time for the best outcome. Dirty hands? Here, grouped by type and listed alphabetically, are the best microwaves of 2020, based on our latest tests. Donna Currie is a food writer and blogger specializing in recipes and kitchen … ... 7 Best Over-the-Range Microwaves for Your Kitchen. Over-the-range microwaves are usually mounted over your stovetop, and they have a light and ventilation underneath. Since it is voice controlled with short simple commands, she has no problems cooking her food.” While not the most powerful microwave here, customers praised its functionality for the price. Westinghouse WCM770SS Countertop Microwave. Dimensions: 14.1 x 17.3 x 10.1 inchesWattage: 700 wattsSize: 0.7 cubic feet. From popcorn to pizza, these microwaves can nuke it all. For the moderate price of $179, a lot less than some others on this list, you get a reliable, powerful, and convenient microwave. The Air Force Wants a Microwave Missile that Fries Electronics, The U.S. Army Wants To Microwave Drones in Midair. 2020 Kia Forte Review. Final Words On Best Countertop Microwaves. Especially when budget hunting, you want to be sure that you’re getting a quality appliance rather than a glorified Easy-Bake oven. In a sea of average, same-looking microwaves, the Cuisinart CMW-100 stands out from the rest. Customers had high praises for this micro Whirlpool microwave. Size: .06 cubic feet | Wattage: 600 | Exterior: Black plastic | Outer dimensions (WxDxH): 17.75 x 12.5 x 10.25 in. We no longer remind our kids to shut the door to the microwave gently — even when slammed, it automatically catches and closes quietly. Consumer Score: 74% rated it 4 stars or higherDirty hands? While they may all look the same size online, that’s not so true once it’s arrived in your kitchen (you’d be amazed at how deep some microwaves are). Can add or reduce cook times by ten second increments. Best microwaves for 2021: GE, Panasonic, LG, Oster and more models compared. General Electric Profile Countertop Microwave, Toshiba Microwave Oven with Convection Function, This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. Size: 0.7 cubic feet | Wattage: 700 | Exterior: Black | Outer dimensions (WxDxH): 17 x 14 x 10 in. | Weight: 34 lb. Can hold a casserole large enough to feed a group. The 10-inch turntable can fit up to a small dinner plate or low profile mug, but nothing bigger. This 1000W, 1-cubic-foot unit hit almost every mark in testing and perfectly balances power, … Good Housekeeping and Consumer Reports (Microwaves, Consumer Reports Buying Guide 2020, pp. The 6 Best Countertop Microwaves of 2021 Cook, defrost, reheat, and more with this versatile appliance. Microwaves are useful for all sorts of … The microwave connects to Amazon Echo and lets you use quick cook voice presets. | Weight: 30 lb. Reviewers love that food heats consistently and evenly. Small but mighty, this microwave can fit in the tiniest of spaces. over two-thirds of those prefer countertop microwaves, Breville the Compact Wave Soft Close Microwave. Even if you have a small kitchen with limited counter space, there are plenty of great compact options. A conventional microwave emits microwaves of energy that penetrate glass and plastic and heat the food. These microwaves may not cook quite as quickly, but there is beauty and convenience in the 30-second button. Our Consumer Score represents the percentage of consumers who rated the product at least 4 out of 5 stars on retail and review sites like Amazon, Walmart, and manufacturers’ websites. | Weight: 29 lb. If a simple microwave won’t cut it, this convection oven could be the answer. Unlike other forms of harmful radiation, like X-rays, these microwaves aren't powerful enough to cause damage to cells, but can potentially burn you the same way they heat food. We love the thoughtful construction of Breville appliances (like this microwave that is also an air-fryer and a convection oven) — this quiet and attractive microwave is no different. Top 10 Best Countertop Microwaves – Make Cooking Convenient in 2020 December 28, 2020 August 26, 2020 by Philips Countertop microwave is called compact or portable microwaves. At 1,200 watts, it’s pretty powerful too; reviewers at Business Insider reported that it heats evenly. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. Microwave Grape Fireballs, Explained by Science! Top 5: Best Microwave Ovens and Countertop Microwaves? ... January 23, 2020. Read full article. This kitchen appliance are more efficient and … 7 Best Countertop Microwaves You Can Buy in 2020. This model also has an inverter that helps heat food more quickly and evenly. Size: 1.5 cubic feet | Wattage: 1,000 | Exterior: Stainless steel | Outer dimensions (WxDxH): 22 x 21 x 13 in. From last night's pizza to tonight's movie night popcorn, these top-rated microwaves are up to the challenge. Best Countertop Microwaves For 2020 – Here Buying countertop microwave oven will save you from many hassles especially buying a good quality one. In addition, ensuring a microwave will fit in your space is also essential. Lists. Countertop models include small, midsized, and large microwaves. If you are looking for something more affordable, stick to the 700-watt range. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven JES1160DPBB Review. You don’t have to worry and here is why: The microwave makes a form of electromagnetic radiation called microwaves that shakes the water molecules in the food, causing them to heat up. Best Over the Range Microwave … The 12 best microwaves to shop in 2020, including countertop, small/compact, convection, and built-in, from Home Depot, KitchenAid and more. Always follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions and you’ll be good to go! Some reviewers miss not having the beep that reminds you that food was left in the microwave. If you do not have an Echo, there is also a simple keypad. Consumer Score: 82% rated it 4 stars or higher. If you are unsure of what wattage you need, a good baseline is 1,000 watts. It comes with all-important features: an add 30 seconds button, a child safety lock, six cooking presets for potato, popcorn, pizza, beverage (one push for every four ounces - so useful for reheating coffee! It features five preset buttons, which are great for simple tasks like warming coffee, defrosting something, or popping popcorn. Consumer Score: 74% rated it 4 stars or higher. Dimensions: 19.1 x 14.8 x 11.5 inchesWattage: 900 wattsSize: 0.9 cubic feet. The control panel is large and the slightly raised buttons are easy to press. So it’s no surprise that 96 percent of U.S. households own a microwave and over two-thirds of those prefer countertop microwaves. Features on standalone microwave (without connecting to an Alexa-enabled device) are limited. AmazonBasics may not be the first brand that comes to mind when shopping for a new microwave, but if you are trying to stick to a smaller budget, this is a solid option. The compact size also means it doesn’t fit a whole lot. The Farberware microwave … … Won't Break the Bank: GE Countertop Microwave Dimensions: 19.1 x 16.4 x 11.5 inchesWattage: 900 wattsSize: 0.9 cubic feet. These are often larger, so they can fit and fully cook a … No alerts that heated food was left in the microwave. You transform to the microwave when you yearn for to rapidly heat some left-overs. November 14, 2020, 3:00 AM. We also consider ease of use when it comes to the control panel, positioning the turntable, opening and closing the door, and cleaning. Good Housekeeping participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. Consumer Score: 74% rated it 4 stars or higherBake, roast, or pop, this convection microwave oven can do it all. While this cannot completely replace an oven, it’s a great alternative if you do not have access to one. It also takes longer. There may be lots of choices for countertop microwaves that could fit your space and style, but these are the essential features to look for: If you’ve ever been told not to stare into the microwave while it’s cooking, the concern is likely due to radiation leaking. Why trust us? It is available in a range of bright colors that will liven up your kitchen. CR’s take: At 18 inches wide and 10 inches tall, the Avanti MO7191TW microwave is a real space-saver. This combination microwave oven from the German brand Toshiba is … While it is easy to hunt for bargains, beware of anything under 700 watts—they typically cook slowly and unevenly, and are likely not worth the money you’ll save. Reviewing the Best Countertop Microwaves of 2021. While this won’t meet the needs of a family of four, it is great for a single person on a budget who wants a basic microwave. It not only features presets for popcorn, potato, frozen vegetables, and more, it allows you to program up to three functions you most use. It has a power output of 1,000 watts, usually found in models at a higher price point. It is available in a stylish stainless steel or black stainless steel finish. There are no preset buttons, but it has two knobs that control time and power so you can heat anything exactly how you want it.