A microwave oven is one of the most-used appliances in any kitchen. The right one reheats evenly, runs quietly, and fits the available counter space. The wrong one creates hot spots, burns food, and adds clutter with controls no one uses.
These five countertop microwaves were selected based on wattage output, capacity, smart features, child safety, and verified buyer feedback. Options range from compact 0.7 cu. ft. models under $70 to a 1.2 cu. ft. smart-sensor unit for larger households.
Sensor cooking, mute functions, ECO mode, and child locks separate modern microwaves from basic models. All five here offer at least 700 watts, digital controls, and child safety locks for safe family use.
- TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave
- BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave
- Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven
- Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave
- COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave
1. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS is a 1.2 cu. ft. countertop microwave with 1000 watts output, a 12.4-inch removable turntable, smart humidity sensor, and 12 auto menus. This microwave leads the list for its smart sensor technology that automatically adjusts cooking time based on moisture levels. TOSHIBA builds it with a mute function, ECO mode, and easy-clean interior coating. It suits families and meal preppers who want a full-size, set-it-and-forget-it microwave at a mid-range price.
What we liked: We noticed the sensor cooking actually worked. Reheating leftovers without manually timing them was a genuine time-saver. The mute function was also a must-have for early mornings when the usual beeping would wake the whole house.
About TOSHIBA: TOSHIBA is a Japanese multinational electronics brand that produces a wide range of home appliances including microwaves, refrigerators, and air conditioners.
Availability: Available on Amazon in stainless steel finish, 1.2 cu. ft. capacity. Priced at $133.87 with Prime shipping.
Pros: Smart humidity sensor, mute function, 12 auto cooking menus.
Cons: Larger footprint than compact models.
Recommendation: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS is the best full-size microwave for busy kitchens that want sensor cooking without a premium price.
| TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1.2 cu. ft. |
| Wattage | 1000W output / 1600W input |
| Turntable | 12.4 inches, removable |
| Auto Menus | 12 |
| Smart Sensor | Yes (humidity-based) |
| Mute Function | Yes |
| Dimensions | 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches |
| Rating | 4.4/5 (21,002 reviews) |
| Average Price in USD | $133.87 |
| Where to Buy | amazon.com |
2. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is a 0.7 cu. ft. countertop microwave with 700 watts, 10 power settings, a push-button door, and a child safety lock. This microwave earns its spot for combining essential features with a compact build at under $80. BLACK+DECKER includes six pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and dinner plates. It suits small kitchens, dorms, and apartments where counter space is limited.
What we liked: We liked how the push-button door opened with one finger instead of a handle pull. The six preset buttons covered almost everything we actually microwaved day-to-day. At 0.7 cu. ft., it also fit neatly under most cabinets without crowding the counter.
About BLACK+DECKER: BLACK+DECKER is a Maryland-based home appliance brand that produces tools, kitchen appliances, and outdoor power equipment.
Availability: Available on Amazon in stainless steel, 0.7 cu. ft. with 700W output. Priced at $79.99 with Prime shipping.
Pros: Compact size, push-button door, six cooking presets, child safety lock.
Cons: 700W limits cooking speed on larger portions.
Recommendation: BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is the best compact microwave for small kitchens that need reliable everyday performance at entry-level pricing.
| BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 0.7 cu. ft. |
| Wattage | 700W |
| Power Settings | 10 |
| Door Type | Push-button |
| Child Safety Lock | Yes |
| Presets | 6 (popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen veg, beverage, dinner plate) |
| Rating | 4.2/5 (21,906 reviews) |
| Average Price in USD | $79.99 |
| Where to Buy | amazon.com |
3. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven
Chefman Countertop Microwave is a 0.7 cu. ft., 700-watt microwave with 10 power levels, 6 cooking presets, one-touch express cook, ECO mode, and a child safety lock. Chefman stands out for the one-touch express cook feature that starts cooking instantly without setting a time. The ECO mode reduces standby power draw, which lowers electricity use between cooking sessions. It works for budget-conscious households and single-person kitchens that want fast, simple operation.
What we liked: The one-touch express cook was genuinely faster than any microwave we’ve used before. Pressing the number keys to instantly set minutes skipped all the button menus. The ECO mode also felt like a smart addition for anyone conscious of appliance energy use.
About Chefman: Chefman is a US kitchen appliance brand that produces air fryers, microwaves, and cooking accessories focused on modern, easy-to-use design.
Availability: Available on Amazon in 0.7 cu. ft. with multiple color options. Priced at $68.93 with Prime shipping.
Pros: One-touch express cook, ECO mode, child safety lock.
Cons: 700W limits performance on large dishes.
Recommendation: Chefman Countertop Microwave is the best value compact microwave for quick cooking with minimal button presses.
| Chefman Countertop Microwave Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 0.7 cu. ft. |
| Wattage | 700W |
| Power Levels | 10 |
| Presets | 6 |
| Express Cook | Yes (one-touch) |
| ECO Mode | Yes |
| Child Safety Lock | Yes |
| Rating | 4.3/5 (3,329 reviews) |
| Average Price in USD | $68.93 |
| Where to Buy | amazon.com |
4. Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave
Farberware Countertop Microwave is a 1.1 cu. ft. unit with 1000 watts, 10 power levels, auto cook settings, defrost, easy-clean interior, and a child safety lock. Farberware earns its place for the combination of 1000 watts and auto cook presets at a price under $120 with over 32,000 reviews. The easy-clean interior coating makes wiping down splatter fast and effortless. It suits mid-size households that want above-average power in a standard countertop package.
What we liked: The 1000 watts made a noticeable difference over 700W models. Soup heated evenly, and frozen meals cooked through in the recommended time. The easy-clean coating also held up after months of use without staining or peeling.
About Farberware: Farberware is a heritage American kitchenware brand founded in 1900 that produces cookware, bakeware, and kitchen appliances.
Availability: Available on Amazon in stainless steel, 1.1 cu. ft. capacity. Priced at $119.99 with Prime shipping.
Pros: 1000W power, easy-clean interior, over 32,000 verified reviews.
Cons: No smart sensor or mute function.
Recommendation: Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. Microwave is the most proven pick for buyers who want 1000W power and a trusted brand with a massive review base.
| Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. Microwave Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1.1 cu. ft. |
| Wattage | 1000W |
| Power Levels | 10 |
| Auto Cook Settings | Yes |
| Defrost | Yes |
| Easy-Clean Interior | Yes |
| Child Safety Lock | Yes |
| Rating | 4.4/5 (32,492 reviews) |
| Average Price in USD | $119.99 |
| Where to Buy | amazon.com |
5. COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave
COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB is a 0.7 cu. ft., 700-watt black countertop microwave with a mute function, ECO mode, easy one-touch buttons, and a two-step child safety lock. COMFEE’ stands out for pairing a mute function with ECO mode in the most affordable package on this list at under $70. The two-step child lock exceeds standard single-step locks for added protection. It suits budget households, dorms, and offices that want a quiet, energy-efficient everyday microwave.
What we liked: The mute function worked perfectly: no beeping, no problem. The two-step child lock also gave us more confidence than the usual single-button lock, especially with young kids in the house. Getting all this for under $70 made it genuinely hard to justify spending more.
About COMFEE’: COMFEE’ is a home appliance brand by Midea Group that produces microwaves, refrigerators, and washers with a focus on affordable, energy-efficient design.
Availability: Available on Amazon in black, 0.7 cu. ft. with 700W output. Priced at $68.83 with Prime shipping.
Pros: Mute function, ECO mode, two-step child lock, budget pricing.
Cons: 700W and 0.7 cu. ft. limit capacity for large families.
Recommendation: COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB is the best budget microwave for households that want silence, energy savings, and strong safety features under $70.
| COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 0.7 cu. ft. |
| Wattage | 700W |
| Mute Function | Yes |
| ECO Mode | Yes |
| Child Lock | Two-step |
| Color | Black |
| Rating | 4.4/5 (27,621 reviews) |
| Average Price in USD | $68.83 |
| Where to Buy | amazon.com |
What Should You Look for When Buying a Countertop Microwave?
Most microwave purchases come down to three variables: wattage, capacity, and features. Getting any one wrong means underpowered reheating, a unit that does not fit the counter, or paying for features that never get used.
Wattage determines cooking speed. A 700W microwave takes 40 to 50 percent longer to cook than a 1000W model. For reheating beverages and small portions, 700W is fine. For full meals, large bowls, or defrosting, 1000W makes a real difference. The TOSHIBA and Farberware in this roundup both hit 1000W at accessible prices.
Capacity determines what fits. A 0.7 cu. ft. unit holds a standard dinner plate. A 1.1 to 1.2 cu. ft. unit handles large casseroles and bigger turntables. Measure the counter space first, then choose the largest capacity that fits. A unit with a 12.4-inch turntable (like the TOSHIBA) handles larger dishes without edge crowding.
The most common mistake is buying based on brand recognition alone. A heritage brand does not guarantee modern features. COMFEE’ and Chefman both deliver mute functions and ECO modes that older brand-name models skip entirely. Compare features side by side before defaulting to a familiar name.
What Is the Best Microwave Oven Brand?
TOSHIBA, Farberware, and COMFEE’ all have strong track records based on Amazon review volume and ratings. TOSHIBA leads on smart sensor features. Farberware has the largest verified review base. COMFEE’ wins on value for budget buyers. No single brand dominates every category.
How Many Watts Does a Good Microwave Need?
700W is the minimum for basic reheating. 900W to 1000W handles most cooking and defrosting tasks at normal speed. Commercial-grade units run 1200W or more. For home kitchens, 1000W covers every common use case without overpaying for power.
What Size Countertop Microwave Do I Need?
A 0.7 cu. ft. microwave fits most standard plates and fits easily under cabinets. A 1.1 to 1.2 cu. ft. microwave handles family-size portions and larger dishes. Measure the counter opening and check the external dimensions before buying. Internal capacity always measures smaller than the exterior.
Are Cheaper Microwaves Worth It?
Microwaves under $100 like the Chefman and COMFEE’ deliver reliable everyday performance for reheating and light cooking. Spending more buys smart sensor technology, higher wattage, and larger capacity. For single-person use, a $70 microwave covers most needs. For family cooking, the upgrade to 1000W is worth the extra cost.
How Long Do Countertop Microwaves Last?
A quality countertop microwave lasts 7 to 10 years with normal use. Signs of wear include uneven heating, sparking inside the cavity, or a door seal that no longer closes firmly. Clean the interior regularly to prevent food buildup that shortens the lifespan.
What Is Sensor Cooking on a Microwave?
Sensor cooking uses a humidity sensor to detect steam released during cooking and automatically adjusts the time and power level. The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS in this roundup uses this technology. It removes the guesswork from reheating dishes that vary in density and moisture content.
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS takes the top spot for its smart humidity sensor, 1000W output, and 12 auto menus. It handles the widest range of cooking tasks without requiring manual adjustments.
Prices and availability on Amazon change frequently. Check the links above for the latest deals on each microwave.
