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These reliable appliances will heat up your leftovers with ease.
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
This microwave is 1.3 cubic feet, so its fairly compact.
After testing several options, we chose the Toshiba Smart Countertop Microwave as the best overall countertop microwave.
We like this pick for its basic, tried and true functions, like its power controls and presets.
Credit: Amazon
Plus, it can connect to your Amazon Dot or Echo, making it an innovative option as well.
During testing, the microwave reheated our leftovers quickly and evenly.
you’ve got the option to choose from 10 power levels, depending on your needs.
Credit: Better Homes & Gardens / Eric Brockob
The microwave has a capacity of 1.3 cubic feet, which is more compact than some other options.
However, it boasts 1,100 watts, which means it is still quite powerful.
There are also energy saving features like an LED cavity light and an eco-mode that reduces energy consumption.
Product Details: Wattage:1,100 watts |Voltage:120 volts |Dimensions:16.6 x 20.4 x 12.4 in.
|Space Capacity:1.3 cubic feet
Key Terms to Know
Best Budget
Black+Decker 0.7 Cu.
Ft. Digital Microwave Oven
It features multiple configs for food and power.
The wattage is 700, whereas standard microwaves are typically 1,000 watts.
We were impressed by the Black+Decker EM720CB7 Microwave Oven during testing.
Plus, we thought the microwave had a sleek and clean design that fit in nicely in our kitchen.
The microwave measures 0.7 cubic feet, so its more compact than other models.
However, the microwave heated our food evenly during testing, without leaving any cold spots.
The stainless steel microwave has a basic, easy-to-read display and control panel.
The microwave also allows you to defrost either by time or weight using a sensor.
Product Details: Wattage:700 watts |Voltage:110 volts |Dimensions:13 x 17.3 x 10.2 in.
It only has 700 watts, so cooking time may be different compared to other microwaves.
Taking up just 0.7 cubic feet, this compact GE microwave is the space-savers dream.
The compact microwave fit nicely on our countertop and was easy to pick up and move during testing.
The turntable for this microwave is 10.75 inches, so its perfectly sized for heating or reheating food.
Credit: Amazon
This microwave also makes opening the door easy by using a push button instead of a traditional handle.
you’ve got the option to also manually program the microwave for defrost times.
However, given the size and other functions, we didnt think it was a dealbreaker.
Credit: Better Homes & Gardens / Eric Brockob
Product Details: Wattage:700 watts |Voltage:120 volts |Dimensions:12.75 x 17.3 x 10.18 in.
Each model was evaluated on its effectiveness, features, and design.
Throughout the testing period, we assessed how each throw in of food turned out after microwaving it.
We checked for cold spots to determine if the microwave heated food evenly.
Watts are a measure of the power flow rate through the system, Shaunfield says.
This measure is a product of an amp flowing through an electrical difference of 1 volt.
Wattage can show you how much energy will be used by an appliance over a period of time.
Voltage
Voltage is another key consideration when shopping for a countertop microwave.
Voltage is the force that makes the current flow.
According to Shaunfield, the standard voltage for countertop microwaves is 120 volts.
All of the microwaves on our list have a voltage of 120 except for theBlack+Decker EM720CB7 Microwave Oven.
It has a voltage of 110, which is slightly below the standard.
This just means the cooking time may be slightly slower with these appliances.
Thoughmicrowaves range in size, the standard is around 21 x 16 x 13 inches.
Before purchasing a microwave, measure your space to ensure it will fit.
Space Capacity
Microwave capacity is measured in cubic feet.
For small spaces, compact microwaves measure under 1 cubic foot, which saves you valuable counter space.
Medium-sized microwaves are the most standard size, and they have a capacity of 1 to 1.5 cubic feet.
Credit: Best Buy
Large microwaves have a capacity of 1.6 cubic feet to over 2 cubic feet.
Your Questions, Answered
Can you put a countertop microwave in a cabinet?
Countertop microwaves can take up valuable kitchen real estate, so we understand wanting to clear some space.
Credit: Better Homes & Gardens / Eric Brockob
Countertop microwaves are, by design, meant to be kept out in the open.
Not all countertop microwave designs are conducive to being put into an enclosed space.
A countertop microwave has vents that need a place to release heat, Shaunfield says.
If theres not enough air flow, its not safe to operate your microwave.
How much does a countertop microwave cost?
Countertop microwaves are often the most budget-friendly punch in of microwave.
Generally, the smaller the microwave, the less wattage and capacity, the cheaper it is.
Who We Are
Molly Blancois a senior writer forBetter Homes & Gardens.
She also consultedBrian Shaunfield, Lowes store manager, for additional insight.
