Best of
Best Countertop Microwaves (2026)
Best countertop microwaves ranked by reheating evenness, defrost quality, and power, led by the 1200W Panasonic inverter and value Toshiba sensor model.
Our top picks at a glance
Panasonic Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology NN-SN686S
Most households that want even reheating and defrosting without babysitting.
Toshiba Microwave Oven EM131A5C-BS
Buyers who want sensor cooking and family capacity at a value tier.
Breville Combi Wave 3 in 1 BMO870
Small kitchens that want one appliance to microwave, bake, and air fry.
The short answer
The Panasonic NN-SN686S is the best overall countertop microwave for inverter evenness at 1200 watts. The best budget pick is the Toshiba EM131A5C, and the best premium pick is the Breville Combi Wave 3 in 1 for microwave, convection, and air fry in one unit.
The picks, ranked
| Pick | Capacity | Power | Dimensions | Warranty | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1Panasonic Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology NN-SN686SBest Overall | 1.2 cu ft | 1200 watts | 20.7 x 15.8 x 12.2 inches | 1 year limited, 5 year magnetron | Check price |
| 2Toshiba Microwave Oven EM131A5C-BSBest Value | 1.2 cu ft | 1100 watts | 20.5 x 17.1 x 12.8 inches | 1 year limited | Check price |
| 3Breville Combi Wave 3 in 1 BMO870Best Premium | 1.2 cu ft, 32 L | 1100 watts microwave | 20.4 x 18.5 x 12.5 inches | 1 year limited | Check price |
| 4Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Multi-Oven NN-CD87KSBest 4-in-1 | 1.2 cu ft | 1000 watts microwave, 1300 watts broil | 22 x 17.7 x 13.5 inches | 1 year limited, 5 year magnetron | Check price |
| 5GE Countertop Microwave Oven GCST16S1WSSBest Large Capacity | 1.6 cu ft | 1150 watts | 21.75 x 17.75 x 12.875 inches | 1 year limited | Check price |
| 6Samsung Countertop Microwave MS14K6000ASBest Easy Clean | 1.4 cu ft | 1000 watts | 21.9 x 18.4 x 12.1 inches | 1 year limited, 10 year magnetron | Check price |
| 7Farberware Professional Microwave FMO11AHTBSKBest Apartment Pick | 1.1 cu ft | 1000 watts | 20.2 x 16.9 x 12 inches | 1 year limited | Check price |
| 8Sharp Carousel Countertop Microwave SMC1161HBBest for Popcorn | 1.1 cu ft | 1000 watts | 20.3 x 14.9 x 12 inches | 1 year limited, 5 year magnetron | Check price |
| 9Hamilton Beach Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu FtBest Small Office Pick | 0.9 cu ft | 900 watts | 19.1 x 15.6 x 11 inches | 1 year limited | Check price |
| 10BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven EM720CB7Best Compact | 0.7 cu ft | 700 watts | 17.3 x 13 x 10.2 inches | 1 year limited | Check price |
Best Overall
Panasonic Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology NN-SN686S
1.2 cubic foot inverter microwave with Genius Sensor and 14 presets.
Inverter power at 1200 watts plus the Genius Sensor give the SN686S the most even reheats and defrosts in a standard microwave here. It stays compact at 1.2 cubic feet for that performance.
If you only microwave, this is the benchmark. If you also want crisping, look at the multi function models below.
Strengths
- Inverter delivers steady low power for even defrost and gentle reheats
- Genius Sensor adjusts time and power by steam
- 1200 watts cooks fast for its size class
- Keep warm and quick minute features suit daily use
Limitations
- No convection or air fry modes
- Door and trim are fingerprint prone
- Button pad requires firm presses
| Capacity | 1.2 cu ft |
|---|---|
| Power | 1200 watts |
| Dimensions | 20.7 x 15.8 x 12.2 inches |
| Weight | 25.3 lb |
| Warranty | 1 year limited, 5 year magnetron |
What owners report
Commonly praised
- Leftovers reheat without cold spots
- Defrosting meat is noticeably more even
- Sensor popcorn and reheat are reliable
- Compact for its capacity
Common complaints
- Interior light could be brighter
- Beeps are louder than some prefer
- Door latch feel divides owners
Recurring themes from owner reviews on retailers and forums, summarised by our editors. Updated October 2026.
Sources: Panasonic official product specifications, Major retailer product listings, Published kitchen gear reviews
Best for: Most households that want even reheating and defrosting without babysitting.
Skip if: Skip if you need air fry or convection modes in the same appliance.
Best Value
Toshiba Microwave Oven EM131A5C-BS
1.2 cubic foot sensor microwave with smart menus and a mute option.
The same 1.2 cubic foot class and 1100 watts with sensor menus and a mute button, at a budget tier. Family plates fit the 12.4 inch turntable easily.
Low power settings pulse instead of running steady like the Panasonic inverter, the main technical compromise.
Strengths
- Smart sensor menus for pizza, potato, and vegetables
- 1100 watts and a 12.4 inch turntable fit family dishes
- Mute function silences beeps
- ECO mode reduces standby draw
Limitations
- Cycles power on low settings instead of true inverter output
- Stainless front shows smudges
- Interior finish is basic
| Capacity | 1.2 cu ft |
|---|---|
| Power | 1100 watts |
| Dimensions | 20.5 x 17.1 x 12.8 inches |
| Weight | 30.3 lb |
| Warranty | 1 year limited |
What owners report
Commonly praised
- Strong value for the size and power
- Mute button is a household favorite
- Sensor reheat works well
- Large turntable fits dinner plates and bowls
Common complaints
- Low power levels pulse rather than run steady
- Keypad layout takes learning
- Door opens with a firmer pull than expected
Recurring themes from owner reviews on retailers and forums, summarised by our editors. Updated October 2026.
Sources: Toshiba official product specifications, Major retailer product listings, Published kitchen gear reviews
Best for: Buyers who want sensor cooking and family capacity at a value tier.
Skip if: Skip if you want true inverter power delivery for delicate defrosting.
Best Premium
Breville Combi Wave 3 in 1 BMO870
Microwave, convection oven, and air fryer in one premium unit.
Microwave, convection, and air fry in one polished unit, with a soft close door and Fast Combi roasting. It is the premium answer for small kitchens short on appliances.
Cost and a learning curve are the trade offs.
Strengths
- Element IQ and Fast Combi mode blend microwave and convection for faster roasts
- Air fry mode crisps in the same cavity
- Soft close door and quieter operation than most rivals
- Smart cook, reheat, and defrost programs use sensor logic
Limitations
- Premium tier cost
- Air fry capacity is smaller than a dedicated fryer oven
- Learning the dial and menu system takes time
| Capacity | 1.2 cu ft, 32 L |
|---|---|
| Power | 1100 watts microwave |
| Dimensions | 20.4 x 18.5 x 12.5 inches |
| Weight | 32 lb |
| Warranty | 1 year limited |
What owners report
Commonly praised
- Roast chicken and fries from one appliance
- Door closes softly and quietly
- Reheat quality is excellent
- Feels premium in daily use
Common complaints
- Menus have a learning curve
- Large and deep on the counter
- Accessories need storage
Recurring themes from owner reviews on retailers and forums, summarised by our editors. Updated October 2026.
Sources: Breville official product specifications, Major retailer product listings, Published kitchen gear reviews
Best for: Small kitchens that want one appliance to microwave, bake, and air fry.
Skip if: Skip if you only reheat and defrost and do not need the extra modes.
Best 4-in-1
Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Multi-Oven NN-CD87KS
4-in-1 inverter microwave with air fry, broil, and convection bake.
Panasonic inverter microwaving plus air fry, broil, and convection gives the widest range here. Sensor programs keep the microwave side simple.
It is deep and heavy, so confirm the counter first.
Strengths
- Inverter microwave power for even, gentle cooking
- Air fry, broil, and convection in one cavity
- Genius Sensor reheat and cook programs
- Fits a 12 inch pizza and family dishes
Limitations
- Deep footprint at over 17 inches
- Heavier than microwave only models
- Many modes mean more cleaning after fatty foods
| Capacity | 1.2 cu ft |
|---|---|
| Power | 1000 watts microwave, 1300 watts broil |
| Dimensions | 22 x 17.7 x 13.5 inches |
| Weight | 37.5 lb |
| Warranty | 1 year limited, 5 year magnetron |
What owners report
Commonly praised
- Versatility replaces a second appliance
- Air fry results are solid for a combo unit
- Inverter defrost is even
- Good for small kitchens without an oven upgrade
Common complaints
- Controls take time to master
- Interior needs wiping after broiling
- Fan continues after some cycles
Recurring themes from owner reviews on retailers and forums, summarised by our editors. Updated October 2026.
Sources: Panasonic official product specifications, Major retailer product listings, Published kitchen gear reviews
Best for: Cooks who want Panasonic inverter microwaving plus crisping modes.
Skip if: Skip if counter depth is limited or the menu system feels like too much.
Best Large Capacity
GE Countertop Microwave Oven GCST16S1WSS
Large 1.6 cubic foot microwave with sensor cooking, weight defrost, and a two-step child lock.
At 1.6 cubic feet and 1150 watts, the GE GCST16S1WSS swallows casseroles and big bowls that stop smaller models. Sensor cooking controls adjust time and power automatically, and weight and time defrost keep it easy despite the size.
Plan a permanent, spacious home for it.
Strengths
- Largest capacity in this roundup at 1.6 cubic feet
- 1150 watts with sensor cooking controls that adjust time and power
- Weight and time defrost options
- Two-step child lock and Instant On express controls for busy family use
Limitations
- Big footprint dominates small counters
- No inverter technology
- Control panel is not backlit and can be hard to read in low light
| Capacity | 1.6 cu ft |
|---|---|
| Power | 1150 watts |
| Dimensions | 21.75 x 17.75 x 12.875 inches |
| Weight | 39 lb |
| Warranty | 1 year limited |
What owners report
Commonly praised
- Fits big casserole dishes easily
- Powerful and fast for large loads
- Simple, familiar controls
- Spacious interior handles family sized portions
Common complaints
- Control panel is hard to read in dim light
- Door button sticking reported after extended use by some owners
- End of cycle alert is louder than some prefer
Recurring themes from owner reviews on retailers and forums, summarised by our editors. Updated October 2026.
Sources: GE official product specifications, Major retailer product listings, Published kitchen gear reviews
Best for: Large households reheating big dishes and casserole sized leftovers.
Skip if: Skip if your counter or cabinet space cannot take a wide, deep unit.
Best Easy Clean
Samsung Countertop Microwave MS14K6000AS
1.4 cubic foot microwave with ceramic enamel interior and sensor cook.
The ceramic enamel interior is the easiest surface here to keep clean, and 1.4 cubic feet suits families. Sensor cook handles the standards well.
No inverter and a tinted door are the compromises.
Strengths
- Ceramic enamel interior wipes clean and resists scratches
- Sensor cook and reheat for common foods
- 1.4 cubic feet fits large bowls and casseroles
- Power defrost and softening modes for butter and ice cream
Limitations
- No inverter, low power cycles on and off
- Large footprint for apartments
- Touch pad marks easily
| Capacity | 1.4 cu ft |
|---|---|
| Power | 1000 watts |
| Dimensions | 21.9 x 18.4 x 12.1 inches |
| Weight | 33.9 lb |
| Warranty | 1 year limited, 10 year magnetron |
What owners report
Commonly praised
- Interior really is easy to clean
- Roomy for family leftovers
- Sensor settings are accurate
- Looks modern on the counter
Common complaints
- Beeps cannot be fully muted on this model for some owners
- Door tint makes food hard to see
- Heavier than expected
Recurring themes from owner reviews on retailers and forums, summarised by our editors. Updated October 2026.
Sources: Samsung official product specifications, Major retailer product listings, Published kitchen gear reviews
Best for: Families that want a larger cavity and an easy clean interior.
Skip if: Skip if you want inverter power or the smallest footprint.
Best Apartment Pick
Farberware Professional Microwave FMO11AHTBSK
1.1 cubic foot stainless microwave with smart sensor and multi stage cooking.
A 1.1 cubic foot, 1000 watt sensor model sized for apartments, with multi stage cooking that chains defrost into cook automatically.
Fit and finish are budget grade, performance is not.
Strengths
- Smart sensor and 1000 watts cover daily jobs well
- Multi stage cooking combines defrost and cook
- LED lighting and a clear display
- Child lock and kitchen timer included
Limitations
- No inverter or mute function focus
- Finish and buttons feel budget grade
- Turntable is smaller than 1.2 cubic foot rivals
| Capacity | 1.1 cu ft |
|---|---|
| Power | 1000 watts |
| Dimensions | 20.2 x 16.9 x 12 inches |
| Weight | 30.5 lb |
| Warranty | 1 year limited |
What owners report
Commonly praised
- Good size for apartments
- Heats evenly for the tier
- Sensor potato and popcorn work well
- Easy to operate
Common complaints
- Door push button wears with heavy use for some owners
- Beeps are persistent
- Cord length is short
Recurring themes from owner reviews on retailers and forums, summarised by our editors. Updated October 2026.
Sources: Farberware official product specifications, Major retailer product listings, Published kitchen gear reviews
Best for: Apartments that want family plate capacity without a large body.
Skip if: Skip if you defrost delicate foods often and want inverter control.
Best Small Office Pick
Hamilton Beach Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu Ft
0.9 cubic foot 900 watt microwave for apartments and offices.
900 watts in a 0.9 cubic foot body is strong for the compact class, and simple menus suit shared spaces.
Check plate diameter before buying; large plates will not rotate.
Strengths
- 900 watts is strong for the compact class
- Six auto menus and weight defrost
- Fits most standard counters and carts
- Simple controls with a clear timer
Limitations
- Turntable fits plates up to about 10.5 inches
- No sensor cooking
- Basic build and door feel
| Capacity | 0.9 cu ft |
|---|---|
| Power | 900 watts |
| Dimensions | 19.1 x 15.6 x 11 inches |
| Weight | 25.7 lb |
| Warranty | 1 year limited |
What owners report
Commonly praised
- Perfect apartment size
- Heats faster than older compact models
- Easy for break rooms
- Good value for students
Common complaints
- Large plates do not rotate freely
- Light inside is weak
- End beeps are loud
Recurring themes from owner reviews on retailers and forums, summarised by our editors. Updated October 2026.
Sources: Hamilton Beach official product specifications, Major retailer product listings, Published kitchen gear reviews
Best for: Small households and offices with basic reheat and cook needs.
Skip if: Skip if you use large dinner plates or casserole dishes regularly.
Best Compact
BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven EM720CB7
Compact 0.7 cubic foot digital microwave for tight spaces.
The smallest and lightest model here still offers 10 power levels and auto menus for drinks, soup, and single servings.
At 700 watts, add time to any recipe written for a full power microwave.
Strengths
- Smallest footprint in this roundup
- Push button door and simple digital pad
- 10 power levels and auto menus for basics
- Child lock and removable turntable
Limitations
- 700 watts cooks noticeably slower
- Fits plates only up to about 10 inches
- No sensor programs
| Capacity | 0.7 cu ft |
|---|---|
| Power | 700 watts |
| Dimensions | 17.3 x 13 x 10.2 inches |
| Weight | 23.1 lb |
| Warranty | 1 year limited |
What owners report
Commonly praised
- Fits where nothing else would
- Fine for soup, drinks, and single meals
- Light to move for cleaning
- Simple for guests and kids
Common complaints
- Needs extra time versus recipes written for 1000 watts
- Small cavity limits bowls
- Door button feel is light
Recurring themes from owner reviews on retailers and forums, summarised by our editors. Updated October 2026.
Sources: BLACK+DECKER official product specifications, Major retailer product listings, Published kitchen gear reviews
Best for: Dorms, RVs, and single users with minimal counter space.
Skip if: Skip if you need fast cooking or room for large plates.
How we chose
01 · Even heating and defrosting
We weighted inverter or sensor technology and owner reports of cold spots, because evenness is what separates a good microwave from a frustrating one.
02 · Real capacity
Turntable diameter and usable height were checked against dinner plates, large bowls, and casseroles, not cubic feet alone.
03 · Power in context
Wattage was judged against cavity size: 700 watts in a compact is slow but workable, while family models need 1000 watts or more.
04 · Daily controls
Express keys, sensor reheat, mute options, and door feel were scored for the repeated, half awake use microwaves actually get.
FAQ
Questions, answered straight
What wattage microwave do I need?
For most households, 1000 to 1200 watts is the sweet spot: fast, and matched to most packaged food instructions. Compact 700 to 900 watt models work, but add time.
What is an inverter microwave?
Instead of cycling full power on and off at low settings, an inverter delivers steady lower power. Defrosting and gentle reheating come out more even, with less cooked edge and raw center.
What size fits a full dinner plate?
Look for at least 1.1 cubic feet with a 12 inch turntable. Smaller 0.7 to 0.9 cubic foot models fit plates around 10 inches.
Can a microwave air fry as well as a dedicated air fryer?
Combo models like the Breville and Panasonic HomeChef crisp well for their size, but batch capacity is smaller than a dedicated air fryer oven.