Best Home Microwaves 2025: Top Picks & Smart Buys

Tired of soggy leftovers, confusing controls, or a microwave that looks great but dies after a year? Picking the right model makes everyday meals faster, safer, and more convenient—whether you’re reheating school lunches, defrosting weeknight dinners, or finishing off a frozen pizza. That’s why finding the best home microwaves matters: the right unit saves time, reduces energy waste, fits your kitchen, and actually improves how your food cooks.

To save you the trial-and-error, this roundup combines hands-on research, verified Amazon reviews, and expert analysis to identify reliable, efficient, and user-friendly options. We focused on performance, durability, size, and features that matter to American households—from compact apartments to busy family kitchens. Read on to discover the best home microwaves for your needs and budget, starting with our top-rated picks below.

TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven Review: The Ultimate Kitchen Multi-Tasker

In today’s fast-paced world, having a versatile, reliable kitchen appliance can save you precious time and effort. The TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven offers a smart all-in-one solution that combines microwave cooking, air frying, convection baking, broiling, and more in a sleek, compact design. If you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen with a powerful yet space-saving device, this model deserves a closer look.

Key Features That Make the TOSHIBA 8-in-1 Microwave Stand Out

• 8-in-1 Multifunctionality: This microwave oven is not just a microwave — it also air fries, bakes with convection, broils, defrosts, removes odors, and offers low-temperature cooking and combination modes. This versatility lets you prepare a wide variety of dishes with just one appliance.
• Healthy Air Fryer Combo: Enjoy the crispy texture of fried foods but with less oil, promoting healthier meals without sacrificing taste.
• Child Safety Lock: The two-step child lock ensures peace of mind by preventing accidental use, especially important for families with young children.
• Spacious Capacity with Compact Footprint: Despite its relatively small exterior (20.6” x 18.0” x 11.8”), it boasts a roomy 1.0 cu.ft interior with a large 12.4-inch turntable that fits whole roasted chickens, 12-inch pizzas, or casseroles up to 8×4 inches.
• Convenient Controls & Features: Easy-to-turn knobs, one-touch popcorn button, position memory turntable, mute function, multistage cooking, and a built-in clock and timer simplify everyday use.
• Sleek Design: Finished in black stainless steel with a stainless steel interior, it looks stylish and is easy to clean.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Versatile 8-in-1 functionality reduces the need for multiple appliances.
  • Large interior capacity accommodates a variety of dishes.
  • Healthy air frying option for guilt-free crispy meals.
  • User-friendly controls and safety features like the child lock.
  • Stylish and durable black stainless steel finish.
• Cons:
  • Some users may find the learning curve steep due to multifunction features.
  • At 1600 watts input power, it requires sufficient kitchen outlet capacity.
  • Compact size suits most kitchens but may be too bulky for very small countertops.

Performance & User Experience

The TOSHIBA 8-in-1 microwave excels in real-world use by consistently delivering even cooking results, whether you’re air frying crispy snacks or baking a casserole. The convection and broil modes add versatility absent in many standard microwaves. Users appreciate the quick preheat times and the convenience of one-touch functions, such as popcorn. The position memory turntable is a thoughtful feature that helps evenly cook food by recalling the last turntable position, enhancing cooking precision.

How Does It Compare?

Compared to similar combos like the Panasonic NN-CD87KS, the TOSHIBA stands out with its slightly larger turntable and more comprehensive set of cooking modes, including an odor removal option. While the Panasonic offers excellent build quality, the TOSHIBA’s added air fryer function and easy-to-use control layout make it a notably versatile choice for families aiming to do more with less kitchen space.

Who Is This Product For?

This appliance is ideal for busy families, small households, or anyone looking to consolidate multiple kitchen gadgets into one powerful countertop unit. It is especially useful for health-conscious cooks who want to enjoy fried foods with less oil and for those who value safety features like the child lock. If you often cook varied meals, from baking to broiling and air frying, this microwave combo is a smart investment.

Final Verdict

The TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven blends convenience, versatility, and safety into a sleek package that fits comfortably on most kitchen counters. Its multifunctional design allows you to replace several kitchen appliances with one, saving space and money. While there is a slight learning curve, the numerous preset modes and easy controls make it accessible for most users. Whether you’re baking, grilling, air frying, or simply reheating leftovers, this microwave oven performs reliably and efficiently.

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Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft. Review: Compact, Smart, and Efficient

Looking for a reliable microwave that fits perfectly in your kitchen, dorm room, or small apartment? The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven offers a powerful 900-watt cooking experience packed into a sleek stainless steel design. With smart presets and energy-saving features, it promises convenience without taking up much space. In this review, we’ll dive into its standout features, performance, and whether it’s the right choice for your culinary needs.

Key Features of the Chefman 0.9 Cu. Ft. Microwave

• Six Pre-Programmed Settings: Simplify meal prep with presets for popcorn, potato, pizza, veggies, beverages, and leftovers—no guesswork required.
• Power and Versatility: 900 watts combined with 10 adjustable power levels allow precise heating, defrosting, and cooking for various foods.
• Memory Function: Save your favorite cooking settings for quick access, making repetitive meals faster than ever.
• Multiphase Cooking: Program two different cooking cycles in one go, perfect for dishes requiring varied heat levels or timing.
• Quiet Operation: Mute option silences beeps and alerts, ideal for shared living spaces or late-night snacks.
• Energy-Efficient Eco Mode: Reduces power consumption by turning off the digital display when idle.
• Quick Start +30 Seconds Button: Instantly start or extend cooking time with a simple press.
• Child Safety Lock: Enhances safety in homes with young children by preventing unintended use.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Compact size fits most countertops without crowding.
  • User-friendly digital controls with clear display.
  • Multiple presets save time and improve cooking consistency.
  • Energy-saving features reduce electricity costs.
  • Safe for families with child lock functionality.
• Cons:
  • 0.9 cu. ft. capacity may be small for larger dishes.
  • Some users may prefer louder beep notifications for alerts.
  • Stainless steel exterior requires regular cleaning to avoid fingerprints.

Performance & User Experience

The Chefman microwave consistently delivers even heating thanks to its 10 power levels, from gentle defrosting to intense heating. The pre-programmed settings are accurately calibrated, making it easy to cook or reheat popular items without manual adjustments. The memory function is a game-changer for busy users who prepare the same meals regularly — it saves valuable time by recalling preferred settings instantly. The mute option is especially appreciated in quiet environments, and the eco mode helps reduce unnecessary energy consumption. Overall, the microwave performs reliably, combining convenience with thoughtful features.

Comparison with Similar Models

Compared to other compact microwaves like the Panasonic NN-SB458S, the Chefman model stands out with its 6 smart presets and multiphase cooking capabilities. While both offer similar wattage and size, Chefman’s memory function and eco mode provide extra convenience and energy savings, making it more versatile for daily use.

Who Is This Microwave For?

This microwave is ideal for:

• College students or dorm dwellers needing a space-efficient appliance.
• Small households or individuals looking for fast, straightforward cooking.
• Anyone who values programmable presets and energy efficiency.
• Families requiring added safety features like child locks.

Final Verdict

The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft. is an excellent blend of power, convenience, and smart features. Its compact footprint makes it perfect for kitchens with limited space, while its user-friendly presets and memory function take the hassle out of meal preparation. Though its capacity is better suited for smaller portions, those seeking efficiency and modern functionality will find this microwave a solid choice. If you want a dependable, energy-conscious microwave with thoughtful safety options, Chefman won’t disappoint.

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Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven Review: Compact Powerhouse for Everyday Cooking

If you’re looking for a reliable, space-saving microwave that balances power, convenience, and safety, the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. is definitely worth considering. This sleek black microwave packs 700 watts of cooking power into a compact frame, making it perfect for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or office spaces. Let’s dive into what makes this microwave stand out and why it could be the right fit for your daily cooking needs.

Key Features

• Extra-Quick Cooking Presets: Six convenient one-touch presets for popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, and leftovers simplify meal prep and save time.
• Adjustable Power Levels: Choose from 10 power settings to customize your cooking, from gentle defrosting to rapid heating at full 700-watt power.
• Digital Controls with Memory Function: Easily program your favorite settings for quick access to your most used cooking functions.
• Child Safety Lock & Lock Mode: Prevents accidental opening and disables controls, ensuring peace of mind for families with children.
• Mute Button & Eco Mode: Silences annoying beeps and helps save energy by turning off the display when not in use.
• Compact, Modern Design: Its sleek black finish fits seamlessly into any kitchen décor without taking up much counter space.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Compact size ideal for small spaces
  • Multiple power levels for versatile cooking
  • User-friendly digital controls with memory feature
  • Strong safety features including child lock and mute option
  • Energy-saving Eco Mode
  • Attractive, modern appearance
• Cons:
  • Limited capacity (0.7 cu. ft.) may be small for larger dishes
  • 700 watts might not cook as quickly as higher wattage models
  • No convection or grilling features

Performance & User Experience

The Chefman microwave performs reliably for everyday tasks such as reheating leftovers, popping popcorn, or warming beverages. The multiple presets are intuitive and reduce guesswork, while the 10 power levels offer flexibility to handle delicate or quick-cooking foods. Users appreciate the mute function for quiet operation, especially in shared living environments or late-night use. The child safety lock provides an extra layer of security, making it a family-friendly option. Despite its smaller footprint, the oven clears most basic cooking tasks efficiently, although it’s best suited for individuals or small households due to its size.

Comparison

Compared to other compact microwaves like the Panasonic NN-SD372S, which offers similar wattage but lacks the mute and eco modes, the Chefman model excels in user convenience and energy-saving features. However, if you need faster cooking power or more advanced features like convection, you might want to consider a larger or higher wattage model.

Who Is This Product For?

• Students or apartment dwellers with limited kitchen space
• Busy individuals seeking easy and quick meal prep
• Families looking for a safe microwave with child lock features
• Anyone wanting an energy-efficient and quiet microwave for day-to-day use

Final Verdict

The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. is a compact, user-friendly appliance that meets essential cooking needs without overwhelming your counter space. Its wide range of power levels, quick presets, and thoughtful safety features make it a practical choice for small households, dorm rooms, or offices. While not suitable for large meals, it excels in delivering consistent performance for everyday microwaving tasks with added energy savings. If you want a solid, no-fuss microwave that’s easy to operate and fits anywhere, this Chefman model is worth checking out.

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Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts Review: Compact Power for Everyday Cooking

If you’re looking for a reliable, space-saving microwave that doesn’t compromise on features or performance, the Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts might be just what you need. Ideal for apartments, dorm rooms, or small offices, this compact microwave offers a perfect blend of power, convenience, and safety. Let’s dive into the details to see why it stands out in its category.

Key Features of the Farberware Countertop Microwave

• 700 Watts of Power: Provides enough heat to prepare meals quickly without burning or uneven cooking.
• Ten Power Levels & Multi-Stage Cooking: Customize cooking from low to high heat for different dishes with precision.
• Six One-Touch Presets: Easily cook popular items like popcorn, potato, and pizza with dedicated buttons.
• Defrost Options: Defrost by weight or time, simplifying meal prep for frozen foods.
• Compact 0.7 Cu. Ft. Capacity: Perfect size for small kitchens, offices, or dorms without sacrificing cooking space.
• Easy-Clean Stainless Steel Finish: Sleek exterior and interior designed for quick cleaning and durability.
• LED Interior Lighting & Clear Digital Display: Keep an eye on your food while cooking and easily track time with a bright, visible interface.
• Child Safety Lock: Adds peace of mind for families with young children.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Compact size fits easily in tight spaces
  • Multiple power levels and presets offer cooking versatility
  • Child lock enhances safety
  • Easy-to-clean stainless steel surface
  • Bright LED lighting makes monitoring food simple
• Cons:
  • 700 watts may be less powerful compared to larger microwaves
  • 0.7 cu. ft capacity limits cooking larger dishes
  • No convection or grill options for advanced cooking

Performance & User Experience

The Farberware microwave delivers consistent heating and cooks meals evenly thanks to its ten adjustable power levels. The one-touch presets save time and make popcorn or rewarming leftovers effortless. Users appreciate the clear LED display that shows the countdown timer and clock, making it simple to monitor cooking progress. The child lock is a welcome feature for families, enhancing safety without complicating use.

Its compact footprint means it fits well in small kitchens or offices without dominating counter space. Cleaning is hassle-free because of the stainless steel surfaces both inside and out, which resist stains and wipe down easily.

Comparison with Similar Microwaves

Compared to models like the Toshiba EM925A5A-BS, which offers 900 watts and a slightly larger capacity, the Farberware trades some power for a smaller size and more budget-friendly price. While Toshiba offers faster cooking times, the Farberware excels in simplicity and safety features such as the child lock, making it a safer choice for families.

Who Is This Microwave For?

• Students living in dorms who need a dependable, space-saving microwave.
• Apartment dwellers with limited kitchen space.
• Office break rooms looking for a straightforward, easy-to-use appliance.
• Families seeking a microwave with safety locks and simple controls.

Final Verdict

The Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts is an excellent option if you want a compact, efficient, and user-friendly microwave for everyday cooking. Its multiple power settings, convenient presets, and safety features make it a versatile kitchen companion. While it doesn’t offer high wattage or advanced cooking modes, it excels in being practical, secure, and easy to clean. Perfect for small spaces and basic cooking needs, it provides great value at an affordable price point.

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TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven Review: A Smart and Spacious Kitchen Essential

If you’re in the market for a versatile microwave that combines style, power, and smart technology, the TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) countertop microwave oven is definitely worth a closer look. With its sleek stainless steel design and innovative inverter technology, this microwave promises efficient cooking and easy everyday use, making it a great addition to any modern kitchen.

Key Features

• Spacious 1.6 Cu.ft Capacity: Large enough to fit a 12-inch pizza on its 13.6-inch removable turntable, perfect for families or meal prepping.
• Inverter Technology: Provides consistent and even heating for faster cooking and better defrosting compared to traditional microwaves.
• 6 Smart Sensor Auto Menus: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power for popular foods like pizza, potatoes, and vegetables, ensuring optimal texture and taste.
• Quick Start Button: One-touch start for 1 to 3 minutes of full-power cooking, ideal for reheating with minimal fuss.
• Sound On/Off Function: Option to mute alerts, handy for quiet environments or late-night snacks.
• Eco Mode & Child Safety Lock: Energy-saving features combined with family-friendly safety controls.
• Easy-to-Read LCD Display: Bright cavity light and clear panel simplify operation and monitoring.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Large capacity suitable for various meals
  • Even heating with inverter technology reduces cold spots
  • Smart sensor menus make cooking foolproof
  • Convenient mute option and safety lock features
  • Stylish stainless steel finish complements most kitchens
• Cons:
  • Control panel lacks backlighting, which might be tricky in low light
  • Some users may find the keypad protective film confusing at first
  • Weight of 33 lbs may require stable countertop space

Performance & User Experience

The Toshiba ML-EM45PIT(SS) performs impressively well in daily kitchen scenarios. Thanks to inverter technology, food heats evenly without overcooking edges—a common issue with traditional microwaves. The smart sensor menus take the guesswork out of cooking, making it perfect for busy users who want consistent results. While the control panel isn’t backlit, the intuitive layout keeps operation straightforward. Users also appreciate the mute button for quiet operation during late hours.

Comparison with Similar Products

Compared to models like the Panasonic NN-SN686S, which also features inverter technology, the Toshiba offers a larger capacity (1.6 cu.ft vs. 1.2 cu.ft) and user-friendly preset menus tailored to everyday foods. While Panasonic’s model has a backlit control panel, the Toshiba’s energy-saving Eco mode and sound off functions add value for eco-conscious and noise-sensitive users.

Who Is This Product For?

This microwave is an excellent choice for families, cooking enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a reliable, spacious, and technologically advanced microwave oven. It’s ideal for those who want quick, even cooking with smart features that simplify meal preparation without compromising style.

Final Verdict

The TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven stands out as a smart, stylish, and efficient kitchen appliance. Its combination of inverter technology, generous capacity, and helpful automated menus makes it a strong contender in its category. Minor drawbacks like the non-backlit panel don’t overshadow its overall performance and user-friendly features. If you want a reliable microwave that keeps up with a busy lifestyle while enhancing your kitchen’s look, this model deserves your attention.

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Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven Review

If you’re looking for a compact yet powerful microwave that combines convenience with modern features, the Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Microwave is an excellent option to consider. Designed to fit efficiently on your countertop without sacrificing capacity or functionality, this sleek silver microwave stands out for its quiet operation and thoughtful cooking presets. Let’s dive into why this countertop microwave deserves your attention.

Key Features

• Compact 25L Capacity: Despite its small footprint, it offers ample space for cooking, reheating, and defrosting meals — ideal for kitchens where space is at a premium.
• Soft Close Door & Quiet Operation: The microwave door closes smoothly and quietly, reducing noise by up to 80%, making it less disruptive during use.
• One-Touch Cooking Shortcuts: Convenient buttons for popular settings including Reheat, Defrost, Popcorn, and Beverage, plus a specialized Food Menu for quick preparation of items like pizza, vegetables, and potatoes.
• Child Lock Safety: A one-touch child lock ensures secure use, giving peace of mind in homes with little ones.
• Adjustable Power Levels: Customize power output to suit different cooking needs, avoiding overcooked or dried-out meals.
• Additional Features: Includes a mute button and Breville Sound Suite to reduce unnecessary beeps, enhancing user experience.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
• Compact size fits well in small kitchens and apartments
• Soft close door reduces noise and wear on hinges
• Intuitive one-touch presets simplify everyday cooking tasks
• Child lock feature enhances kitchen safety
• Powerful 900-watt output for efficient cooking
• Cons:
• Limited to a 25L capacity, which may not suit larger families
• No convection or grilling features, restricting cooking versatility
• One-year limited warranty might feel short compared to competitors

Performance & User Experience

The Breville Compact Wave Microwave impresses with its smooth, quiet operation and ease of use. The soft-close door is a standout feature, eliminating the typical slamming noise and extending product life. Users appreciate the thoughtfully designed preset buttons that take the guesswork out of common cooking and reheating tasks, making it perfect for busy households or those new to microwave cooking. The defrost and reheat functions work gently and effectively, preventing uneven cooking often associated with microwaves. Overall, this model delivers reliable performance for everyday kitchen needs.

Comparison

Compared to other compact microwaves like the Panasonic NN-SN686S, which offers inverter technology for more precise cooking, the Breville BMO650SIL prioritizes quiet operation and user-friendly presets. While it lacks some advanced cooking functions, its soft-close door and child lock features give it a unique edge, particularly for families and shared living spaces.

Who Is This Product For?

This microwave is ideal for individuals or small families with limited kitchen space who want a hassle-free, quiet appliance. It’s especially suited for apartments, dorm rooms, or offices where noise reduction is appreciated. If you need a simple, straightforward microwave with quick cooking shortcuts and safety features, the Breville Compact Wave Microwave fits the bill.

Final Verdict

The Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Microwave strikes a fine balance between size, functionality, and silent operation. It’s an excellent choice if you value convenience and a quieter kitchen environment without compromising on essential cooking tasks. Its smart presets and child safety lock add extra value, making it a reliable countertop companion for everyday use.

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TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven Review: Compact Powerhouse for Your Apartment Kitchen

The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) microwave oven is designed for those seeking a reliable, compact, and user-friendly kitchen companion. Ideal for small spaces like apartments or dorm rooms, this microwave combines practical features with sleek black stainless steel styling. Whether you need quick reheating, defrosting, or cooking with preset menus, this model promises convenience without compromising on performance.

Key Features

• 900W Cooking Power: Offers efficient and consistent heating for a variety of meals, from simple reheats to more involved cooking tasks.
• 6 Auto Menus: Pre-programmed settings for popular foods such as popcorn, pizza, and potatoes make cooking effortless and foolproof.
• Two-Step Child Lock: Ensures safety by preventing accidental operation, an essential feature for families with young children.
• Mute Function: Silences the end-of-cooking beep for a quieter kitchen environment, perfect for open-plan living spaces.
• 11 Power Levels & Timer: Customize cooking intensity and duration with multiple power levels and a built-in kitchen timer for precise control.
• Easy Defrost & One-Touch Start: Thaw frozen items quickly by weight or time, and start cooking instantly with one-touch presets.
• Compact Size with LED Lighting: Internal LED lighting keeps you informed, all within a space-saving footprint of 18.7 x 14.7 x 10.7 inches.
• 10.6-inch Removable Glass Turntable: Allows even cooking and easy cleaning.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
• Compact design ideal for small kitchens and apartments
• User-friendly preset menus simplify cooking tasks
• Effective child lock enhances safety
• Quiet mute mode reduces kitchen noise
• Wide range of power levels for versatile use
• Cons:
• 900W may be less powerful compared to some larger microwaves
• No convection or grilling features for advanced cooking
• Manual required for two-step child lock setup may be a slight hurdle initially

Performance & User Experience

In everyday use, the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) delivers consistent heating performance. The six auto menus are accurate, making it easy to prepare common snacks and meals without guesswork. The child lock is straightforward, providing peace of mind for households with kids. Users appreciate the mute function, especially in shared living spaces where noise can be disruptive. The LED lighting illuminates the interior clearly, and the turntable ensures even cooking. Its smaller size means it fits comfortably on most countertops without taking up too much space.

Comparison

Compared to the Panasonic NN-SD372S compact microwave, which offers 950W power and a similar set of preset menus, the Toshiba model holds its own with additional safety features like the two-step child lock and a dedicated mute function. While Panasonic may have a slight edge in power, Toshiba’s combination of safety and user-friendly controls makes it an excellent choice for families and apartment dwellers.

Who Is This Product For?

This microwave is perfect for anyone living in a small space who needs a dependable, easy-to-use appliance. It’s especially suited for young families requiring child safety features, students in dorms, or individuals wanting quick meal prep without the bulk of larger microwave ovens.

Final Verdict

The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) balances size, safety, and functionality beautifully. Its thoughtful features like child lock, mute mode, and multiple preset options enhance daily convenience, while its compact design fits well in tight spaces. Though it lacks advanced cooking modes, it excels as a straightforward, reliable microwave for basic cooking needs. For anyone who values a safe, quiet, and compact microwave, this model is a fantastic pick.

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