Top 8 Best Microwave Ovens Reviewed and Tested In 2024
Microwave ovens have become an essential kitchen appliance, offering convenience and efficiency for a variety of cooking needs. Whether you’re reheating leftovers, defrosting frozen foods, or cooking a quick meal, the right microwave can make a significant difference in your kitchen routine. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top microwave ovens available, highlighting their unique features and benefits to help you make an informed decision.
8. Breville Smooth Wave Microwave Oven
The Breville Smooth Wave Microwave Oven stands out with its user-friendly interface, featuring a dedicated dial for adjusting power levels. Unlike other models, this microwave makes it easy to control the amount of heat during your cooking cycle. Brittany Mullins, the author of the Eating Bird Food blog, appreciates its straightforward design. “Many microwaves make it hard to change the level and find what you need,” she says. This model simplifies the process with clear designations for different power levels: High for cooking, 70 for reheating, 50 for melting, 40 for softening, 30 for defrosting, and 10 for keeping warm. Mullins also notes its quiet operation and soft-close door, enhancing the overall user experience.
7. Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave Oven
The Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave Oven is a versatile appliance that combines the functions of a microwave, air fryer, and convection oven. Recipe developer and cookbook author Kristina Cho praises its ability to heat food evenly without hot spots, making it ideal for warming leftovers or soup. She also appreciates its speed, noting that it can heat a bowl of pasta in just 30 seconds. The intuitive interface features one dial for time and another for wattage, with settings for cooking, reheating, and defrosting. Chef Judy Joo of Food Network’s Korean Food Made Simple highlights the effectiveness of its presets, particularly for softening butter and melting chocolate without burning.
6. Toshiba EM131A5C Microwave Oven
The Toshiba EM131A5C Microwave Oven is known for its affordability and stainless-steel front finish, a rare feature in its price range. This model also includes a door handle, which is easier to open and clean than the button-style release found on many cheaper microwaves. One standout feature is the mute option, allowing you to reheat food without disturbing others. While it heats food quickly and evenly, it may not offer better longevity than other similarly priced models. The Toshiba EM131A5C shares many similarities with microwaves from brands like GE, Whirlpool, and Sharp, suggesting comparable performance and lifespan.
5. GE Smart Countertop Microwave Oven
The GE Smart Countertop Microwave Oven features smart connectivity, allowing you to control it via your smartphone or voice commands using a virtual assistant. With a Google Home Mini, you can start, stop, pause, resume, set cooking times, and check the remaining time. At 900 watts, this microwave heats food quickly but may have some hot spots, as observed when cooking marshmallows. It also includes a scan-to-cook function, which automatically sets cooking times and settings by scanning a food package’s barcode. Although not essential for everyone, the smart technology can be convenient for multitasking and maintaining a more sanitary kitchen environment.
4. Panasonic NN-SD975S Microwave Oven
The Panasonic NN-SD975S Microwave Oven is ideal for families, thanks to its large 16.5-inch turntable and even heating. While you might need to reduce cooking times from package instructions, it consistently avoids hot or cold spots. The dial for adjusting cooking time increments by 10 seconds, which can be slightly inconvenient but doesn’t detract from its overall ease of use. You can also use the dial to input the weight of food for defrosting. This microwave allows for three stages of cooking, and the display screen keeps you informed throughout the process. Although it’s bulky, its powerful features and capacity make it a great choice for large households.
3. Toshiba EC042A5C-BS Microwave Oven
The Toshiba EC042A5C-BS Microwave Oven combines traditional microwave functions with convection cooking, baking, roasting, and toasting capabilities. Its Express Cook feature allows you to start the microwave by pressing numbers one through six on the keypad. At 1,000 watts, it’s powerful enough to handle various tasks, though it did burn the center of marshmallows in our tests. It heats frozen mac and cheese thoroughly and crisps frozen french fries well, though the convection settings can be confusing. While it may not be ideal for toasting bread, this microwave offers versatility for those who want more than just a standard microwave.
2. Commercial Chef 0.9 Cubic Foot Microwave Oven
The Commercial Chef 0.9 Cubic Foot Microwave Oven is the most affordable and compact option we tested, making it perfect for small kitchens, apartments, or dorm rooms. Despite its small interior, it can accommodate a 10-inch dinner plate. The controls are straightforward, featuring several express cook buttons and the ability to set custom cook times. It also includes six preset buttons and two defrost settings. While its 900-watt power means you might need to add extra time to package instructions, it still performs well for basic tasks. The marshmallow test revealed some heat concentration in the center, but overall, it’s a great budget-friendly choice.
1. Panasonic NN-SN65KB Microwave Oven
The Panasonic NN-SN65KB Microwave Oven excels in power and performance, with 1,200 watts ensuring fast and even cooking. During the marshmallow test, it achieved consistent results with minimal burning. The Sensor Reheat feature is particularly effective, adjusting cooking time based on the food’s humidity levels. The Popcorn and Coffee/Milk presets work better than those on other models, though the Frozen Food preset tends to overestimate cooking times. Some minor drawbacks include a dim interior light and a control panel that shows fingerprints easily. However, for those seeking a balance of power, size, and user-friendly features, this Panasonic model is the top choice.
Buying Guide for Microwave Ovens
When selecting the perfect microwave oven for your kitchen, it’s essential to consider various factors to ensure you get the best value for your investment. Here’s a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
Power and Wattage
The power of a microwave is measured in watts, and higher wattage generally means faster and more even cooking. If you frequently cook larger meals or want to ensure even heating, opt for a microwave with at least 1,000 watts. Lower wattage models, such as those with 700-900 watts, are suitable for basic tasks like reheating and defrosting.
Size and Capacity
Microwaves come in various sizes and capacities, so consider the available space in your kitchen and your cooking needs. Compact models with a capacity of 0.7-1.0 cubic feet are ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or apartments. For larger families or those who often cook big meals, a microwave with a capacity of 1.2 cubic feet or more is recommended.
Features and Functions
Modern microwaves offer a range of features and functions that can enhance your cooking experience. Here are some to consider:
- Convection Cooking: Allows you to bake and roast in addition to microwaving.
- Sensor Cooking: Adjusts cooking time and power based on the food’s humidity levels.
- Inverter Technology: Provides consistent power for even cooking.
- Preset Programs: Convenient one-touch buttons for common tasks like popcorn, beverages, and defrosting.
- Mute Function: Enables silent operation, perfect for late-night snacking.
Ease of Use
A user-friendly interface is crucial for a hassle-free cooking experience. Look for microwaves with intuitive controls, clear displays, and easy-to-access dials or buttons. Models with a soft-close door and quiet operation can also enhance your overall satisfaction.
Design and Build Quality
The design and build quality of a microwave can impact its durability and aesthetic appeal. Stainless steel models are not only durable but also add a sleek look to your kitchen. Consider microwaves with a handle instead of a button-release door for easier opening and cleaning.
Smart Technology
For tech-savvy users, smart microwaves offer advanced features like voice control, smartphone connectivity, and scan-to-cook functionality. These features can make cooking more convenient, especially if you often multitask in the kitchen.
Price and Warranty
Microwaves range in price from budget-friendly models under $100 to high-end units costing several hundred dollars. Determine your budget and look for a microwave that offers the best combination of features and performance within your price range. Additionally, consider models with a good warranty to protect your investment.
FAQs
What wattage is best for a microwave oven? A microwave with at least 1,000 watts is ideal for most cooking needs, offering faster and more even cooking. Lower wattage models are suitable for basic tasks like reheating and defrosting.
How do I choose the right size microwave for my kitchen? Consider the available space in your kitchen and your cooking needs. Compact models (0.7-1.0 cubic feet) are great for small spaces, while larger families should opt for models with 1.2 cubic feet or more.
What is the benefit of inverter technology in microwaves? Inverter technology provides consistent power, resulting in more even cooking and better performance for tasks like defrosting and reheating.
Are smart microwaves worth the investment? Smart microwaves offer advanced features like voice control and smartphone connectivity, making cooking more convenient. If you frequently multitask or enjoy using smart home devices, they can be a worthwhile investment.
Can a microwave with convection cooking replace a traditional oven? A microwave with convection cooking can bake and roast, offering similar results to a traditional oven. However, it may not completely replace an oven for all cooking tasks, especially for large meals.
What are some must-have features in a microwave oven? Key features to look for include sensor cooking, preset programs, mute function, and a user-friendly interface. Convection cooking and inverter technology are also beneficial.
How often should I replace my microwave oven? Most microwaves last about 7-10 years. If your microwave shows signs of wear, poor performance, or lacks modern features, it may be time to consider a replacement.
Conclusion
Choosing the right microwave oven involves considering various factors like power, size, features, and budget. From compact models perfect for small kitchens to advanced units with smart technology, there’s a microwave to suit every need. By understanding your cooking habits and preferences, you can select a microwave that enhances your kitchen experience and meets your culinary demands.
