Best Microwave Oven for Quick and Easy Cooking

Microwave ovens have become an essential appliance in most kitchens. They offer a quick and convenient way to heat up meals, defrost food, and even cook simple dishes.

With so many options available on the market, finding the best microwave oven can be overwhelming.

When looking for the best microwave oven, there are a few critical things to consider. Firstly, the size of the microwave is crucial, as it will determine how much food you can heat up at once.

Secondly, the wattage of the microwave will determine how quickly and evenly your food will cook.

Finally, the features available on the microwave, such as defrosting and cooking settings, can make a significant difference in your overall experience.

We spent countless hours researching and testing ten microwave ovens to identify the ones that offer the best combination of size, wattage, and features for the average household. In this article, we will share our top picks for the best microwave ovens and explain why we believe they are the best options on the market.

Best Microwave Ovens

Microwave ovens are a staple in most kitchens, providing quick and easy meal preparation for busy households.

With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs. That’s why we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best microwave ovens available.

Our top picks are based on factors such as functionality, size, design, and overall value. Whether you’re looking for a basic model or a high-end option with advanced features, we’ve got you covered. Check out our list below to find the perfect microwave oven for your home.

Panasonic NE3280 Large Capacity Steamers/Microwaves 3200 Watts

If you’re looking for a microwave that can also steam, then the Panasonic NE3280 is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The steamer/microwave has three cooking stages, allowing you to cook a variety of dishes.
• The programmable lock and timer ensures that you can cook your food with ease, without worrying about overcooking.
• The memory pads make it easy to save your favorite cooking settings for future use.

Cons

• The size of the microwave may be too large for some kitchens.
• The price point is on the higher end compared to other microwaves in the market.
• The dial interface may take some time to get used to.

We’ve been using the Panasonic NE3280 for a few weeks now and we’re impressed with its performance. The steamer/microwave has three cooking stages, allowing us to cook a variety of dishes with ease.

The programmable lock and timer ensures that we can cook our food without worrying about overcooking. We also appreciate the memory pads, which make it easy to save our favorite cooking settings for future use.

However, the size of the microwave may be too large for some kitchens, so make sure to measure your space before purchasing. Additionally, the price point is on the higher end compared to other microwaves in the market.

Finally, the dial interface may take some time to get used to, especially if you’re used to touchscreens or buttons.

Overall, if you’re looking for a microwave that can also steam, the Panasonic NE3280 is definitely worth considering. Its multiple cooking stages, programmable lock and timer, and memory pads make it a great option for those who want a versatile appliance in their kitchen.

GE PK7800SKSS Built-in Combination Double Wall Oven/Microwave

If you’re looking for a versatile and efficient microwave oven, the GE PK7800SKSS is a great choice.

Pros

• Large oven capacity
• Efficient microwave
• Convection cooking mode

Cons

• Hard to clean
• Microwave is hard to reach for shorter people
• Expensive

We recently purchased the GE PK7800SKSS and have been impressed with its performance. The oven has a large capacity, making it easy to cook multiple dishes at once. The microwave is also efficient and cooks food evenly.

One of the standout features of this microwave oven is its convection cooking mode. It allows for even cooking and browning of food, making it perfect for baking and roasting.

However, the oven can be difficult to clean, especially for shorter people. The microwave is also hard to reach for those who are not tall. Additionally, the GE PK7800SKSS is quite expensive compared to other microwave ovens on the market.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality and versatile microwave oven, the GE PK7800SKSS is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared to spend some extra time cleaning it.

BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven

If you’re looking for a microwave oven that is easy to use and has a spacious interior, then the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a great option for you.

Pros

• Pre-programmed buttons for popular food items
• Sensor technology ensures ideal results every time
• Large LED digital display with clock function and countdown timer

Cons

• Only 700 watts of power
• Control panel buttons are hard to push
• Not suitable for cooking larger items

We found this microwave oven to be very user-friendly, with six pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverages, and dinner plates. The sensor technology ensures that your food is cooked or reheated perfectly every time.

The LED digital display is easy to read and has a clock function and a countdown timer, which is a great feature for keeping track of cooking times.

One downside of this microwave is that it only has 700 watts of power, which may not be enough for some users. Additionally, the control panel buttons can be hard to push, which can be frustrating at times.

Finally, this microwave may not be suitable for cooking larger items, as the interior is only 0.7 cubic feet.

Overall, we would recommend the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven for anyone in need of a reliable and easy-to-use microwave oven for everyday use.

Sharp Microwave Drawer Oven

If you’re looking for a sleek and modern microwave for your kitchen, the Sharp Microwave Drawer Oven is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The easy touch automatic drawer system allows for hands-free opening and closing, making it a convenient choice for busy cooks.
• The concealed control panel is easy to read and operate at a 45° angle, making it more ergonomic than traditional microwave control panels.
• The microwave drawer design means that it can be installed in a variety of locations in your kitchen, making it a versatile choice.

Cons

• The lack of a turntable means that heating can be uneven, so you’ll need to stir or rotate your food occasionally to ensure even cooking.
• The finish is prone to showing fingerprints, so you’ll need to wipe it down regularly to keep it looking clean.
• The drawer opening and closing can be a bit slow, which can be frustrating if you’re in a hurry.

Overall, we think that the Sharp Microwave Drawer Oven is a great choice for anyone looking for a modern and convenient microwave option. Its unique design allows for easy placement in your kitchen, and the automatic drawer system and concealed control panel make it a pleasure to use.

While it does have a few minor drawbacks, we think that its many benefits more than make up for them.

Merrychef E1S Eikon Microwave Convection Impingement Oven

If you’re looking for a versatile and efficient microwave oven, the Merrychef E1S Eikon Microwave Convection Impingement Oven might be the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• The ventless design makes installation a breeze, allowing you to place it anywhere in your kitchen without the need for a hood or vent.
• The timer function is a handy feature that lets you set the cooking time and forget about it, ensuring that your food is cooked to perfection every time.
• The child lock feature ensures that your little ones won’t accidentally turn on the oven or change the settings, giving you peace of mind.

Cons

• The stainless steel material might be prone to fingerprints and smudges, requiring frequent cleaning to keep it looking shiny and new.
• The over-the-range installation might not be suitable for all kitchens, especially those with low ceilings or limited space.
• The price point might be higher than some other microwave ovens on the market, making it a less affordable option for budget-conscious shoppers.

In our experience, the Merrychef E1S Eikon Microwave Convection Impingement Oven is a reliable and efficient appliance that delivers excellent results every time. The ventless design is a game-changer, allowing us to install it anywhere in our kitchen without the need for additional ventilation.

The timer function is a handy feature that saves us time and effort, while the child lock feature gives us peace of mind when our little ones are around.

One thing to keep in mind is that the stainless steel material might require frequent cleaning to keep it looking shiny and new, especially if you have kids or pets around.

Additionally, the over-the-range installation might not be suitable for all kitchens, so make sure to measure your space and check the installation requirements before purchasing.

Overall, we would recommend the Merrychef E1S Eikon Microwave Convection Impingement Oven to anyone looking for a high-quality, versatile, and efficient microwave oven that can handle a variety of cooking tasks with ease.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying a microwave oven, there are a few things to consider to ensure that you choose the best product for your needs. In this section, we will discuss the features and factors to look for when buying a microwave oven.

Size and Capacity

The size and capacity of a microwave oven are important factors to consider. You’ll want to make sure that the microwave oven you choose fits in the space you have available in your kitchen.

Additionally, you should consider the capacity of the microwave oven. If you plan to cook large items or multiple dishes at once, you’ll want to choose a microwave oven with a larger capacity.

Power

Microwave ovens come in a range of power levels, usually measured in watts. The higher the wattage, the faster the microwave oven will cook your food. However, higher wattage also means a higher price tag. Consider your cooking needs and budget when choosing a microwave oven with the appropriate power level.

Features

Microwave ovens come with a variety of features, including defrost, reheat, and cook settings. Some models also have additional features, such as grilling or baking capabilities. Consider which features you will use most often and choose a microwave oven with those features.

Safety Features

Microwave ovens can be dangerous if not used properly. Look for safety features such as child locks and automatic shut-off to ensure that you and your family are safe when using the microwave oven.

Price

Price is always a consideration when making a purchase. Microwave ovens can range in price from under $50 to over $500. Consider your budget and needs when choosing a microwave oven.

In summary, when choosing a microwave oven, consider the size and capacity, power, features, safety features, and price. By taking these factors into account, you can choose the best microwave oven for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated countertop microwaves?

When it comes to countertop microwaves, there are a few models that consistently receive high ratings from both experts and consumers. Some of the top-rated countertop microwaves include the Panasonic NN-SN966S, the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS, and the Breville Quick Touch.

Which brand makes the best built-in microwave?

There are several brands that make great built-in microwaves, but some of the best include KitchenAid, Bosch, and GE. These brands offer a variety of models with different features and price points, so you can find one that fits your needs and budget.

What is the best budget microwave available?

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly microwave, there are several options to choose from. Some of the best budget microwaves include the Toshiba EM925A5A-BS, the AmazonBasics Microwave, and the Magic Chef MCM770B.

Are there any new over the range microwaves worth considering?

Yes, there are several new over the range microwaves that are worth considering. Some of the top models include the GE JVM6175SKSS, the Samsung ME16K3000AS, and the Whirlpool WMH31017HS.

How long can I expect my microwave to last?

The lifespan of a microwave can vary depending on several factors, including usage, maintenance, and quality. However, on average, you can expect a microwave to last between 5 and 10 years.

Is there a microwave that doubles as an oven?

Yes, there are several microwaves on the market that double as ovens. These models are often called “convection microwaves” and they use both microwave and convection cooking methods to cook food. Some of the best convection microwaves include the Toshiba EC042A5C-BS, the Samsung MC12J8035CT, and the Panasonic NN-CD87KS. Learn more.