10 Best Microwave Ovens 2026 in the United States

The TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) is a powerful countertop microwave oven with 1250 watts of cooking power, making it suitable for quickly heating and cooking a variety of foods. Its 1.6 cubic feet capacity is fairly spacious, allowing you to cook larger dishes or multiple items at once. This microwave uses a traditional 13.6-inch glass turntable, which helps food cook evenly as it rotates.

One standout feature is its inverter technology, which offers more consistent heating and defrosting compared to standard microwaves, resulting in better texture and flavor for your meals. It also comes with 6 smart sensor auto menus that adjust settings automatically for popular foods, so you don't need to guess the cooking time or power level. This makes it convenient for everyday use, especially if you want reliable results without much effort.

The microwave has a sleek black stainless steel design that should fit well in most kitchens. Size-wise, it’s reasonably compact but still large enough for most family needs. A thoughtful addition is the two-step child lock for safety, which is important if you have young children. The sound on/off option lets you mute the buzzer, which is nice in quiet environments. Cleaning should be straightforward due to its stainless steel interior and removable turntable. One minor drawback could be the 28.7-pound weight, making it less easy to move frequently. Also, while the turntable is common, some might prefer a flatbed design for easier cleaning and more uniform heating. This microwave is a solid choice for families or individuals looking for a reliable, easy-to-use model with smart features and good cooking power.

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS countertop microwave is a solid choice for those seeking an efficient and user-friendly kitchen appliance. With a wattage of 1100W, it provides ample power for quickly heating a variety of foods, and its 1.2 cubic feet capacity can comfortably accommodate a 12-inch pizza, making it suitable for small families or individuals. The inclusion of a removable turntable ensures even cooking, which is a plus for many users.

One of the standout features is its pre-programmed sensor menu, which optimizes heating for popular items like pizza and veggies, simplifying meal prep. The practical control panel features a large display, making it easy to navigate through settings. Additionally, the mute function is a thoughtful touch for those who may find the buzzer sound intrusive, adding to user convenience.

However, it’s important to note a few drawbacks. The appliance's size may be too large for compact kitchens, and although it has 10 power settings, some users might prefer more advanced options or inverter technology for better heating control. The stainless steel design is stylish, but it can be prone to showing fingerprints, requiring regular cleaning to maintain its appearance. While the microwave is fairly easy to clean, some users may find the turntable challenging to handle if they have limited kitchen space. Priced competitively, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS is a reliable choice for everyday cooking tasks, particularly for those who value convenience and efficiency in a microwave.

The Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) countertop microwave stands out with its large 2.2 cubic feet capacity and powerful 1200W wattage, making it ideal for large families or those who frequently cook large meals. Its spacious interior can easily fit a 16-inch pizza or a whole chicken, which is a significant advantage for users who need to cook in bulk.

The microwave features a position memory turntable, which ensures the even rotation of food for consistent cooking results. The built-in humidity sensor is a noteworthy feature that aids in achieving optimal heating and moisture retention for different types of food. Additionally, the microwave comes with 6 pre-programmed settings that simplify the cooking process for common items like bacon, chicken pieces, and oatmeal. The auto-defrost function is particularly handy for defrosting meat, poultry, and fish effectively.

On the downside, its large size (19.6 x 24.4 x 13.6 inches) means it will take up considerable counter space, which might not be suitable for smaller kitchens. The microwave is also on the heavier side, weighing 49.2 pounds, which could make it difficult to move or reposition. The stainless steel design, while sleek, may require more frequent cleaning to maintain its appearance. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) offers robust performance and user-friendly features that make it a strong contender in the microwave oven category.