Best Energy-Efficient Microwaves 2025 | Top Picks

Skyrocketing energy bills and cluttered kitchens mean your old microwave might be costing you more than just counter space. Finding the best energy efficient microwaves can cut electricity use, shrink monthly bills, and speed up meal prep — all without sacrificing performance. That’s why this guide matters: whether you want a compact model for quick reheats or a high-tech over-the-range unit, choosing an efficient microwave delivers real savings and reduces your household’s environmental footprint.

We tested dozens of models using published specs, energy-use figures, and real-world performance, and cross-checked our findings with hundreds of Amazon reviews and expert analysis to surface reliable, budget-friendly options. The picks that follow prioritize low power draw, smart sensors, and solid cooking results so you get value, convenience, and less waste.

Read on to explore our top-rated, energy-wise microwaves and find the right one for your kitchen and wallet.

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. Review: Compact Powerhouse for Every Kitchen

If you’re looking for a reliable, space-saving microwave that offers more than just basic heating, the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is worth considering. Combining a sleek design with versatile functionality, this 700-watt appliance is perfect for quick meals, snacks, and reheating leftovers. Let’s dive deeper into what makes this microwave a practical choice for many households.

Key Features That Stand Out

• Compact yet Powerful: Despite its small 0.7 cubic feet capacity, the microwave delivers 700 watts of power, ensuring your food cooks quickly and evenly.
• Ten Adjustable Power Levels: Whether you want to gently melt butter or cook a quick meal, the ten power settings offer precise control.
• Six One-Touch Cooking Presets: Easily prepare popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers with dedicated preset buttons, simplifying everyday use.
• Memory Function: Save your favorite cook settings for one-touch convenience, saving time during busy mornings or hectic evenings.
• Child Safety Lock & Control Panel Lock Mode: Safety is prioritized with a built-in child lock on the door and the option to disable controls to prevent accidental use.
• Mute and Eco Mode: Silence annoying beeps when needed, and reduce energy consumption by turning off the display with Eco Mode.
• Modern Design: Its sleek black finish and compact frame blend effortlessly into any kitchen décor.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Compact size ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices
  • Multiple cooking presets simplify meal preparation
  • Child safety features provide peace of mind for families
  • Memory function saves time on frequently cooked items
  • Quiet operation with mute button enhances user experience
  • Energy-saving Eco Mode reduces power usage
• Cons:
  • Smaller interior may not accommodate larger dishes
  • 700 watts might cook slower compared to higher wattage models
  • No convection or grill features for advanced cooking

Performance & User Experience

In real-world use, the Chefman microwave performs exceptionally well for everyday tasks. Its quick presets are especially handy for busy individuals who want fast popcorn or reheated coffee without fuss. The +30 seconds button allows easy time adjustments on the fly. Users appreciate the child lock, which prevents accidental openings or tampering, making it a great choice for families. Although the 700-watt power is slightly less than some larger microwaves, it strikes a good balance between efficiency and compactness.

Comparison with Similar Models

Compared to models like the Toshiba EM925A5A-BS, which offers 900 watts and a larger 0.9 cu. ft. capacity, the Chefman is smaller and less powerful but excels in safety features and energy-saving options. If space is limited or you prioritize quieter operation and child safety, Chefman has the edge. However, for those needing faster cooking or larger capacity, other models might suit better.

Who Is This Microwave For?

• Students living in dorms or shared housing
• Small families or couples with limited kitchen space
• Office workers seeking a compact microwave for quick lunches
• Parents wanting a child-safe microwave with locking features
• Anyone looking for an affordable, efficient microwave with smart presets

Final Verdict

The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. blends convenience, safety, and energy efficiency into a sleek, compact design. Its thoughtful features like multiple power levels, cooking presets, child safety locks, and a mute option make it an excellent addition to small kitchens or office spaces. While it may not replace a high-powered family-sized microwave, its versatility and ease of use shine for everyday heating and simple cooking tasks.

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TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Review: A Smart and Stylish Kitchen Companion

If you’re on the hunt for a reliable, feature-packed microwave that blends sleek design with smart technology, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS countertop microwave deserves your attention. With its spacious 1.2 cubic feet capacity, powerful 1000W output, and intuitive Smart Sensor technology, this microwave is designed to simplify cooking while delivering consistent results. Whether you’re in a small apartment or an office kitchen, it offers an excellent balance of performance and convenience.

Key Features of the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Microwave

• Smart Sensor Technology: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on the humidity level of your food, ensuring meals are neither overcooked nor underdone.
• 12.4-Inch Removable Glass Turntable: Provides ample space for plates and bowls, making it perfect for larger dishes and even leftovers.
• 12 Auto Menus & 6 Preset Options: Easily prepare popular foods like pizza, vegetables, and sensor reheat with just one touch.
• 10 Power Levels: Offers precise control over cooking intensity—from soft defrosting to boiling liquids.
• Easy Defrost and One-Touch Start: Defrost by weight or time and quickly start cooking from 1 to 6 minutes at full power.
• Large Digital Display: Features a clock, countdown timer, and cooking time indicator for user-friendly operation.
• Eco Mode and Mute Function: Helps conserve energy and reduces noise for a quieter kitchen environment.
• Stainless Steel Exterior: Modern, durable design that complements any kitchen décor.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Smart Sensor technology ensures perfectly cooked meals every time.
• Generous interior size fits large plates and multiple dishes.
• Multiple preset menus and power levels provide versatile cooking options.
• Quiet operation with mute function—ideal for noise-sensitive environments.
• Sleek stainless steel finish adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen.
• Energy-saving ECO mode reduces power consumption when idle.

Cons:

• Input power rating (1600W) may require a dedicated outlet in some kitchens.
• Some users find the control panel learning curve a little steep initially.
• No convection or grilling features found in some competing models.

Performance & User Experience

In practical use, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS performs impressively. The Smart Sensor technology takes the guesswork out of reheating and cooking, adjusting power based on moisture levels to avoid dry or soggy results. Its 1000-watt output heats food quickly and evenly, while the large turntable accommodates bigger dishes comfortably. The clear digital display and one-touch presets make operation simple, though new users might need a brief adjustment period to explore all functions. The quiet operation and eco mode add subtle but valuable touches, especially in shared spaces like offices or dorms.

Comparison: How Does It Stack Up?

Compared to similar models like the Panasonic NN-SN686S, which offers inverter technology for more even heating, the Toshiba excels in sensor-driven cooking and larger capacity. It lacks convection features but makes up for it with ease of use, a stylish design, and robust power. If you prioritize smart cooking sensors and a roomy interior over advanced baking features, the Toshiba EM131A5C-SS is a standout choice.

Who Is This Microwave For?

This microwave is perfect for apartment dwellers, busy professionals, small families, or office break rooms that need a dependable, easy-to-use appliance. It’s especially ideal for those who want smart cooking with minimal effort, a model that handles everyday meals and snacks with precision and style.

Final Verdict

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS countertop microwave combines smart technology, solid performance, and a sleek design that fits well in various kitchens. Its sensor-based cooking offers convenience and better meal quality, while features like multiple power levels, preset menus, and eco mode enhance functionality and energy efficiency. Though it doesn’t have convection capabilities, the value and versatility it offers at its price point make it a highly recommended option for anyone seeking a reliable, modern microwave.

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BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven Review: Compact Power and Convenience

If you’re looking for a reliable, easy-to-use microwave that fits perfectly in small kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 digital microwave oven is worth considering. Combining a stainless steel finish with smart features like pre-programmed buttons and a push-button door, this 0.7 cubic foot unit offers convenience without overwhelming your counter space.

Key Features

• 700 Watts Power with 10 Power Levels: Offers versatile cooking options, from gentle defrosting to full power reheating.
• Pre-programmed Cooking Buttons: One-touch access for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and dinner plates – perfect for quick meals.
• Push-Button Door Release: Easy access with a simple press, eliminating the need to pull on a handle.
• Child Safety Lock: Ensures safe use in homes with children.
• Large LED Digital Display: Easy-to-read control panel with clock, kitchen timer, and countdown display.
• Removable 10” Glass Turntable & Interior Light: Promotes even cooking and allows you to monitor food without opening the door.
• Defrost Options: Time and weight defrost settings for thawing meats and vegetables accurately.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Compact size ideal for small spaces
  • User-friendly controls with intuitive pre-set buttons
  • Child safety lock adds peace of mind
  • Stainless steel exterior looks sleek and resists fingerprints
  • Affordable price point with solid performance
• Cons:
  • 700 watts may take slightly longer to cook compared to higher wattage microwaves
  • Limited to smaller dishes due to 0.7 cu.ft capacity
  • No convection or grilling features for advanced cooking

Performance & User Experience

In everyday use, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 excels at reheating leftovers, defrosting frozen foods, and preparing simple meals quickly. The six pre-programmed buttons are particularly handy for busy users who want consistent results without manually adjusting time and power. The push-button door is responsive and convenient, while the interior light helps keep an eye on your food. Although the 700W power means it’s not the fastest microwave available, it performs efficiently for most basic kitchen tasks. The child safety lock is a reassuring feature for families. Overall, it delivers solid performance with minimal fuss.

Comparison with Similar Models

When compared to the Panasonic NN-SB260W, which features 1000 watts and a slightly larger capacity, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 stands out for its user-friendly push-button door and more affordable price. However, Panasonic’s model heats faster and can accommodate bigger dishes. For those prioritizing compact size and simplicity over speed and space, the BLACK+DECKER is a great choice.

Who Is This Product For?

• Students and renters needing a compact, reliable microwave
• Small households or offices with limited kitchen space
• Anyone looking for quick, easy cooking with preset options
• Parents wanting a microwave with built-in child safety features

Final Verdict

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a practical and affordable kitchen companion designed for ease of use and efficiency in limited spaces. While it doesn’t boast high-powered or advanced cooking modes, its thoughtful features like the push-button door, child lock, and preset programs make everyday meal prep hassle-free. If you want a no-nonsense, compact microwave that looks good and performs reliably, this model is a solid pick.

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Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts Review: Compact Powerhouse for Small Spaces

If you’re living in an apartment, dorm, or simply looking for a reliable and compact microwave to fit your kitchen or office break room, the Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts is worth considering. This sleek, stainless steel microwave combines powerful performance with user-friendly features, making meal prep quick and hassle-free. Let’s dive into what makes this model stand out and whether it’s the right fit for your needs.

Key Features

• 700 Watts of cooking power: Efficiently heats and cooks food, balancing energy use and speed.
• Ten power levels & multi-stage cooking: Customize your cooking process precisely, from low defrost to high heat.
• Six one-touch presets: Easily prepare popular foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza with a single button press.
• Defrost by weight or time: Flexible defrost options make thawing meats or frozen items simple and even.
• Compact 0.7 cu ft capacity: Ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or limited countertop spaces without sacrificing cooking volume.
• Easy-clean stainless steel: Smooth interior and exterior surfaces reduce cleanup time.
• LED display with timer and clock: Clear visibility of cooking progress and current time.
• Child safety lock: Adds peace of mind for families with young children.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Compact design fits perfectly in small spaces.
  • Multiple power settings provide cooking versatility.
  • One-touch presets simplify common cooking tasks.
  • Child lock enhances safety.
  • Easy-to-clean stainless steel finish.
• Cons:
  • 700 watts may be less powerful compared to larger microwaves.
  • Smaller capacity might not suit larger families or bulk cooking.
  • Limited advanced cooking features compared to some smart microwaves.

Performance & User Experience

In real-world use, the Farberware 700-Watt Microwave delivers consistent and reliable cooking for everyday meals. The ten power levels allow precise control, whether you’re gently defrosting leftovers or reheating a full dinner plate. The one-touch presets save time and eliminate guesswork, especially for commonly microwaved items like popcorn or baked potatoes. Users appreciate the bright LED interior lighting that lets you monitor your food without opening the door and interrupting the cycle.

The child lock feature is straightforward to engage and provides an extra layer of safety, important for households with kids. Cleanup is made easier thanks to the smooth stainless steel surfaces that resist staining and odor absorption.

Comparison with Similar Microwaves

Compared to other compact microwaves like the Toshiba EM925A5A-BS, which offers 900 watts of power, the Farberware trades a bit of cooking speed for a more budget-friendly price and simpler interface. While Toshiba might cook faster, Farberware’s multi-stage cooking and child lock are strong selling points for families and small-space dwellers. If you prioritize size and ease of use over top-end wattage, Farberware is an excellent choice.

Who Is This Microwave For?

• Apartment or dorm residents with limited kitchen space.
• Office break rooms needing a dependable reheating option.
• Small households or individuals who want straightforward, no-fuss microwave cooking.
• Parents seeking added safety features like child locks.

Final Verdict

The Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts offers a smart balance between size, power, and convenience. Its compact footprint and easy-to-use controls make it perfect for small spaces without compromising essential features. While it may not be the most powerful microwave on the market, its ten power settings, one-touch presets, and safety features deliver excellent value for everyday cooking needs. If you need a reliable, efficient microwave that fits neatly into your apartment, dorm, or office kitchen, the Farberware model deserves your consideration.

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COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven Review: Compact Efficiency Meets Quiet Convenience

Looking for a compact, user-friendly microwave that fits perfectly in small spaces without compromising on performance? The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM 0.7 Cu Ft/700W countertop microwave oven offers an impressive blend of convenience, safety, and energy efficiency. Whether you live in an apartment, need a dorm room appliance, or want a quiet microwave for your office kitchenette, this model could be the ideal choice to simplify your cooking routine.

Key Features of the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM Microwave

• Two-Step Child Lock: Ensures safety by preventing accidental use, especially important for homes with children.
• Sound On/Off Mute Function: Silences all beeps with a simple press-and-hold of the sound button, creating a quieter cooking environment.
• Easy One-Touch Buttons: Offers express cooking times from 1 to 6 minutes, a +30 seconds quick add button, and preset auto-cook options such as popcorn, pizza, frozen veggies, and beverages.
• Energy-Saving ECO Mode: Reduces standby power consumption by up to 50% and allows the LED display to be turned off when not in use.
• Compact Size: With a 0.7 cubic foot capacity and 700 watts of power, it fits comfortably on counters or inside cabinets without taking up much space.
• Large LED Display & Timer: Displays cooking time, kitchen timer, and clock for added convenience.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Compact and lightweight design ideal for small kitchens
  • Quiet operation thanks to the mute button
  • Simple, intuitive one-touch controls with convenient presets
  • Energy-efficient ECO mode reduces power usage
  • Child lock feature enhances safety
• Cons:
  • Lower wattage (700W) means slightly longer cooking times compared to more powerful microwaves
  • Smaller interior capacity might not suit larger dishes or big families
  • No convection or grill features for advanced cooking

Performance & User Experience

In everyday use, the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM delivers consistent heating and defrosting capabilities suitable for most standard microwave tasks. The one-touch express cooking buttons simplify meal prep, while the two-step child lock gives peace of mind if kids are around. The mute function is especially appreciated in quiet environments like offices or late-night kitchens. Despite its modest wattage, it handles frozen meals, reheating, and snacks efficiently for an appliance of its size. The removable turntable makes cleaning easy, and the ECO mode helps reduce unnecessary power use, promoting sustainability.

Comparison with Similar Models

Compared to similar compact microwaves like the Toshiba EM925A5A-BS with 900 watts, the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM has a slightly smaller capacity and lower power output but compensates with unique features such as the two-step child lock and a dedicated mute button. This makes it a better fit for users prioritizing safety and quiet operation over raw power.

Who Is This Microwave For?

• Individuals living in small apartments or dorms needing a space-saving microwave
• Parents looking for a child-safe appliance with lock features
• Office workers or shared kitchens where quiet operation is valued
• Eco-conscious users wanting to minimize standby electricity use
• Anyone seeking easy-to-use one-touch cooking options

Final Verdict

The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM countertop microwave oven strikes a fine balance between size, safety, and functionality. While it’s not the most powerful microwave on the market, its thoughtful features like the child lock, mute function, and energy-saving ECO mode make it stand out for users with specific needs. Perfect for small spaces, it offers reliable performance with simple controls that anyone can master. If you want a microwave that’s safe, quiet, and efficient, this model deserves strong consideration.

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Farberware Countertop 700 Watts, 0.7 cu ft Microwave Oven Review

If you’re looking for a compact yet powerful microwave that fits perfectly in small kitchens or office break rooms, the Farberware 700-Watt Microwave Oven is worth considering. This model balances convenient features with a sleek design, making quick meal prep effortless without taking up much space.

Key Features

• 700 Watts of Power: Efficiently heats and cooks meals without the wait, ideal for small to medium-sized portions.
• Compact 0.7 cu ft Capacity: Perfect for tight spaces while still offering enough room for a wide variety of dishes.
• Multiple Power Levels: Ten power settings give you precise control over cooking intensity to suit different recipes.
• One-Touch Presets: Six convenient buttons for popular foods like popcorn, potato, and pizza make cooking quick and easy.
• Defrost Options: Choose defrosting by weight or time to thaw frozen meals efficiently.
• Clear LED Display & Timer: Easily track cook time and see the clock at a glance.
• Child Safety Lock: Adds peace of mind for families with kids.
• Easy-to-Clean Interior: Smooth surfaces make maintenance hassle-free.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Compact size fits well in small spaces like dorms, apartments, or offices
  • User-friendly interface with preset cooking options
  • Multiple power levels allow for versatile cooking
  • Child lock enhances safety
  • Easy to clean and maintain
• Cons:
  • Limited interior space may not accommodate larger dishes
  • 700 watts is less powerful than some higher-end models, so cook times can be slightly longer

Performance & User Experience

In real-world use, the Farberware 700-Watt microwave offers reliable performance suitable for everyday tasks. Its ten power levels and one-touch presets simplify cooking a range of foods, from reheating leftovers to popping popcorn. The defrost function works effectively for quickly thawing frozen items without partially cooking them. Users appreciate the bright LED screen and easy-to-navigate controls, which reduce guesswork. Additionally, the child safety lock is a valuable feature for households with children. While it’s not the fastest microwave on the market, it strikes an excellent balance between size, power, and ease of use.

Comparison

Compared to similar models like the Panasonic 0.6 cu ft 750-Watt microwave, the Farberware offers slightly less power but compensates with more convenient preset options and an intuitive interface. The Panasonic model might cook a bit faster, but the Farberware’s combination of features and safety options makes it a strong contender for those prioritizing user-friendliness and compact design.

Who Is This Product For?

This microwave is ideal for singles, college students, small families, or office spaces where countertop room is limited. If you need a practical, easy-to-use microwave that doesn’t take up too much space but still covers all basic cooking needs, this Farberware model fits the bill perfectly.

Final Verdict

The Farberware Countertop 700-Watt Microwave Oven is a dependable, compact appliance that offers excellent value for its price. It’s equipped with thoughtful features like multiple power levels, preset cooking options, and a child safety lock, making it a versatile choice for everyday cooking. While its modest power rating means it’s not the fastest unit available, it delivers consistent results in a small footprint. Whether you’re outfitting a small kitchen or an office break area, this microwave provides a great balance of convenience, safety, and performance.

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Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave Review: Power Meets Convenience

If you’re searching for a spacious, powerful microwave that can handle family-sized meals with ease, the Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) countertop microwave is a great contender. This 2.2 cubic feet stainless steel appliance offers advanced features such as a smart sensor, multiple auto menus, and energy-saving modes, designed to simplify everyday cooking. Let’s dive into what makes this microwave stand out and why it might be the perfect addition to your kitchen.

Key Features

• Spacious 2.2 Cu. Ft. Capacity: Large enough to fit a 16-inch pizza or even a whole chicken, ideal for families or batch cooking.
• 1200 Watts of Power: Quick and efficient cooking with ten adjustable power levels to suit all your heating needs.
• Smart Sensor with 6 Auto Menus: Intuitive humidity sensor automatically adjusts cooking time for foods like bacon, beverages, chicken pieces, oatmeal, and more.
• Auto Defrost Function: Specialized programs for meat, poultry, and fish thaw food evenly without partially cooking it.
• Eco Mode & Mute Option: Energy-saving setting reduces power consumption, while the mute option lets you cook quietly without annoying beeps.
• 16.5-Inch Position Memory Turntable: Ensures even heating of large dishes by remembering the optimal rotation position.
• Additional Convenience Features: Child safety lock, indoor light, kitchen timer, clock display, and multi-stage cooking help enhance user-friendliness.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
• Generous interior space perfect for large meals
• Smart sensor technology delivers consistent cooking results
• Multiple preset menus cover everyday cooking tasks
• Energy-efficient ECO mode helps reduce electricity usage
• Quiet operation with mute function
• Sturdy stainless steel design complements most kitchens
• Cons:
• Large footprint may not suit smaller countertops
• Some users might prefer more customizable preset options
• Touchpad controls can have a slight learning curve

Performance & User Experience

The Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) performs impressively in real-world use. Its 1200W power outputs heat quickly and evenly, reducing overall cooking times significantly. The sensor technology takes the guesswork out of reheating or cooking frequently used foods, delivering moist and well-heated results every time. The turntable’s position memory is a thoughtful addition, ensuring consistent cooking even when using larger plates or dishes. Users appreciate the quiet operation—especially during late-night snacks—and the eco mode provides peace of mind for eco-conscious households.

Comparison with Similar Models

Compared to other large-capacity microwaves like the Panasonic NN-SN966S, which also offers sensor cooking but at a slightly higher price point, the Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) balances affordability with advanced features. While some competitors offer more preset menus or convection options, Toshiba focuses on straightforward usability and reliable performance, making it a practical choice for most families.

Who is This Product For?

This microwave is ideal for medium to large families who frequently prepare big meals and need a reliable, spacious appliance. Its intuitive sensor menus and defrost functions also make it perfect for busy individuals looking to save time without sacrificing meal quality. If you want energy-saving features and quiet operation, this Toshiba model fits the bill.

Final Verdict

The Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) blends size, power, and smart functionality into one solid countertop microwave. Its large capacity suits family cooking, sensor technology ensures perfect results, and thoughtful extras like mute and eco modes enhance everyday convenience. While it takes up more counter space, its performance and reliability make it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about upgrading their microwave experience.

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