8 Best Countertop Microwave Ovens (November 2026)
The best countertop microwave ovens include the COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven for quiet compact cooking, the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven for sensor reheating, and the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven for simple preset cooking.
On this page (5 sections)
The COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven is our top pick for everyday use, with one-touch presets, weight or time defrost, and a mute function. For more room, consider the 1.2 cu. ft.
Toshiba, the 1.6 cu. ft. GE, or the family-size Sharp.
Countertop microwave ovens can handle reheating, frozen food defrosting, snacks and everyday meals without a built-in installation. The right choice depends on interior capacity, counter space, output power and how much you value sensor cooking or quick presets.
For oven-style cooking, compare our picks for Oster countertop ovens.
If your counter is tight, compare the best small countertop microwave oven options. For wider interiors, see our guide to best large countertop microwave ovens.
Our picks at a glance
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1
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3
Best for simple preset cookingBLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Best for compact sensor-free controlsCheck it - 5
Check itChefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Best for quiet preset cooking - 6
Check itBLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop
Best for a mid-size family kitchen - 7
Best for sensor cooking with more roomCheck it - 8
Check itSharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless
Best for extra-large portions
Which countertop microwave ovens fit different kitchens?
The COMFEE' is the top-scoring general pick, while the other models suit different space and cooking needs. We compared capacity, output, presets, defrost options and stated dimensions to match each microwave to a practical use.
Our score weighs specs and features against what you're shopping for. These are standalone microwave ovens for reheating, defrosting and everyday kitchen use.
| Product | Best for | Capacity | Output | Dimensions | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven | quiet compact cooking | 0.7 cu. ft. | 700W | 17.3 x 13 x 10.2 in | 9.7 |
| TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven | sensor reheating | 1.2 cu. ft. | 1000W | 20.6 x 14.6 x 11.8 in | 9.6 |
| BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven | simple preset cooking | 0.7 cu. ft. | 700W | 17.3 x 13 x 10.2 in | 9.6 |
| TOSHIBA Microwave Oven | compact sensor-free controls | 0.9 cu. ft. | 900W | 18.7 x 13.3 x 10.7 in | 9.6 |
| Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. | quiet preset cooking | 0.7 cu. ft. | 700W | 17.52 x 12.93 x 9.53 in | 9.5 |
| BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop | a mid-size family kitchen | 1.1 cu. ft. | 1000W | 20.6 x 14.8 x 11.8 in | 9.4 |
| GE Countertop Microwave Oven | sensor cooking with more room | 1.6 cu. ft. | 1150W | 21.3 x 18.7 x 12.36 in | 9.1 |
| Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless | extra-large portions | 2.2 cu. ft. | 1200W | 24.4 x 19.6 x 13.6 in | 8.5 |
The best countertop microwave oven picks
The best countertop microwave oven for you depends on how much space you need and which controls you'll use. These picks are listed from highest score to lowest, with compact options first and larger-capacity choices below.
COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for quiet compact cooking
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 700W output
- Mute function
- Weight or time defrost
- ECO mode
A compact microwave with one-touch presets, two defrost settings and a mute option. ECO mode can reduce standby power use.
Pros
- Mute function
- Weight or time defrost
- One-touch presets
Cons
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 700W output
The COMFEE' suits a small counter or shared kitchen where quiet operation matters. Its 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and 17.3 x 13 x 10.2 in dimensions make it a compact choice, and the mute function turns off the cooking beeps.
One-touch cooking includes popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverage and reheat presets. Defrost by weight or time, or add cooking time in 30-second steps.
ECO mode can reduce standby power use by 50%, according to COMFEE'. A two-step child lock is included, so consider whether those controls fit your household.
Choose it when a small footprint and useful presets matter more than high output or a larger cavity. The best countertop microwave ovens in white offer another way to narrow choices by kitchen finish.
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for sensor reheating
- 1.2 cu. ft. capacity
- 1000W output
- Humidity sensor
- 10 power levels
- Weight or time defrost
The humidity sensor adjusts cooking time and power, while 6 preset menus cover popular foods. It also has a clock, kitchen timer and 10 power levels.
Pros
- Humidity sensor
- 1000W output
- One-touch start
Cons
- Larger footprint than compact picks
- Needs more counter space
The 1.2 cu. ft. Toshiba is a strong fit if you reheat meals often and want sensor assistance.
Its humidity sensor adjusts time and power based on food moisture, and the stated output is 1000W.
Six preset menus cover popular foods, including sensor reheat. You also get 10 power levels, weight or time defrost, a kitchen timer and one-touch start for 1 to 6 minutes.
At 20.6 x 14.6 x 11.8 in, it needs more space than the compact picks. Choose it when its sensor controls and larger capacity justify that counter area.
For shoppers who prefer a brand-focused shortlist, compare this with the best Panasonic countertop microwave oven options and our best Toshiba countertop microwave ovens.
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for simple preset cooking
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 700W output
- 10 power settings
- 6 preset buttons
- Removable glass turntable
This compact model combines a removable glass turntable with presets for popcorn, potato, pizza, vegetables, beverages and dinner plates.
Pros
- 6 preset buttons
- 10 power settings
- Push-button door release
Cons
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 700W output
The BLACK+DECKER 0.7 cu. ft. microwave offers six preset buttons in a compact footprint. It has 700W output, 10 power settings, a removable 10 in glass turntable and a push-button door release.
Its presets cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverage and dinner plate. A clock, kitchen timer, child safety lock and 30-second express cooking add handy everyday controls.
At 17.3 x 13 x 10.2 in, it has the same stated dimensions as the COMFEE' compact pick. Choose between them by prioritizing BLACK+DECKER's push-button door and removable glass turntable or the COMFEE''s mute and ECO functions.
TOSHIBA Microwave Oven: Best for compact sensor-free controls
- 0.9 cu. ft. capacity
- 900W output
- 11 power levels
- 6 preset menus
- Weight or time defrost
A middle-size Toshiba with 900W output, 11 power levels, 6 auto menus and a two-step child lock. Its 10.6 in turntable is removable.
Pros
- More capacity than 0.7 cu. ft. models
- 11 power levels
- Mute function
Cons
- Larger footprint than the smallest picks
- No humidity sensor listed
This Toshiba has a 0.9 cu. ft. capacity and 900W output, placing it between the compact 0.7 cu. ft. models and the larger 1.2 cu. ft. Toshiba.
Its stated dimensions are 18.7 x 13.3 x 10.7 in.
Six preset menus, 11 power levels and weight or time defrost cover routine use. It also includes one-touch start, a mute function, LED lighting and a two-step child lock.
Choose this model if you want more room than a mini microwave provides but don't need a full-size family unit. Its controls offer manual power choices without the humidity sensor found on the 1.2 cu. ft.
Toshiba.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.: Best for quiet preset cooking
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 700W output
- 10 power levels
- 6 cooking presets
- Mute button
Six presets, 10 power levels and a mute button suit routine reheating and quick meals. Its glass turntable is top-rack dishwasher safe.
Pros
- Mute button
- Six cooking presets
- Dishwasher-safe turntable
Cons
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 700W output
The Chefman is another compact option with six cooking presets and a mute button. Its 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and 700W output suit simple reheating and snacks where counter space is limited.
The 10 power levels let you choose a lower setting for tasks such as melting butter or a higher setting for quick cooking. A +30 seconds button adds time without resetting the cook cycle, and the turntable is top-rack dishwasher safe.
Its dimensions are 17.52 x 12.93 x 9.53 in. Choose it when a quiet mode and easy-to-clean turntable matter more than a larger interior.
BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop: Best for a mid-size family kitchen
- 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
- 1000W output
- 10 power settings
- 6 preset buttons
- 12.4 in glass turntable
A 1.1 cu. ft. interior and 1000W output make this a useful step up from compact models. It has six presets and a removable glass turntable.
Pros
- 1000W output
- Six preset buttons
- 12.4 in turntable
Cons
- Takes more counter space
- No sensor cooking feature listed
This 1.1 cu. ft. BLACK+DECKER gives you more interior room than the compact 0.7 cu. ft. models while keeping the controls familiar.
It has 1000W output, 10 power settings and a removable 12.4 in glass turntable.
Six preset buttons cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverage and dinner plate. A child safety lock, kitchen timer, clock and push-button door release round out the controls.
Its stated dimensions are 20.6 x 14.8 x 11.8 in. Consider it for a household that regularly reheats larger plates but does not need the 1.6 or 2.2 cu. ft. capacity of the largest picks.
GE Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for sensor cooking with more room
- 1.6 cu. ft. capacity
- 1150W output
- Sensor cooking controls
- 8 convenience settings
- Manual and auto defrost
Sensor controls adjust cooking time based on moisture, and 8 convenience settings support everyday meals. GE specifies clearance around the unit for airflow.
Pros
- Sensor cooking controls
- 1150W output
- Manual and auto defrost
Cons
- Needs 3 in clearance at each side and above
- Larger counter footprint
The GE combines a 1.6 cu. ft. capacity with 1150W output and sensor cooking controls. The sensor monitors moisture and adjusts cooking time, while eight convenience settings and one-touch express cooking simplify common tasks.
Manual and auto defrost modes give you options for frozen food. The electronic keypad provides direct control over cooking time and power settings, and the child lock can be disabled when you don't need it.
GE specifies 3 in of clearance on each side and above, 1 in at the rear, and an unobstructed bottom for airflow. Measure your counter with those spaces included before choosing this larger microwave.
Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless: Best for extra-large portions
- 2.2 cu. ft. capacity
- 1200W output
- 16.5 in turntable
- Inverter cooking technology
- Sensor Cook
The largest-capacity option here has a 16.5 in turntable, sensor cooking, auto cook and weight or time defrost. Its wide cabinet needs ample counter space.
Pros
- Largest capacity in this group
- 1200W output
- Inverter cooking technology
Cons
- Wide 24.4 in footprint
- May be too large for compact counters
The Sharp SMC2266KS is the largest-capacity pick, with a 2.2 cu. ft. interior and 1200W output. Its 16.5 in turntable can suit larger portions and serving dishes, but the 24.4 in width requires a broad counter.
Features include inverter cooking technology, Sensor Cook, Auto Cook, 10 power levels, two-stage cooking and weight or time defrost. A +30 seconds key and single-press express cooking up to 6 minutes cover quick starts.
Choose it when capacity is the priority and you have room for its 24.4 x 19.6 x 13.6 in stated dimensions. Sharp also says the countertop model can be built in with an optional trim kit sold separately.
What should you compare before choosing a countertop microwave?
Start with capacity and external dimensions, then compare wattage, controls and the defrost options you'll use. A microwave that fits your plates still needs enough open space around it for safe airflow.
How much capacity do you need?
A 0.7 cu. ft. microwave can suit snacks, drinks and small plates, while 1.1 to 1.6 cu. ft. gives more room for everyday dishes. The 2.2 cu. ft.
Sharp is designed for larger portions and wider serving dishes.
Think about the largest container you regularly reheat, not just the number of people in your home. Check its width and height against the usable interior and turntable size.
Does higher wattage matter for everyday use?
Output power is one factor in cooking speed, but features and capacity also shape day-to-day convenience. The compact picks here offer 700W, while the larger GE and Sharp offer 1150W and 1200W.
If you mainly warm drinks and leftovers, preset buttons and quick-start controls may matter more than choosing the highest output. For frequent frozen meals or larger portions, compare wattage along with space and sensor options.
Are sensor controls useful?
Sensor cooking can adjust time and power based on moisture, which may reduce the need to guess at a reheat setting. The 1.2 cu. ft.
Toshiba has a humidity sensor, while GE describes sensor controls that monitor moisture as food cooks.
Sensor features are not essential for every kitchen. If you prefer direct control, the other picks offer power levels, timers, presets or manual defrost settings.
Should you choose weight or time defrost?
Weight defrost can set a cycle based on the food's weight, while time defrost lets you choose a duration. Several picks here offer both methods, including the COMFEE', both Toshiba models and the Sharp.
For odd-shaped or mixed foods, pause to check progress and separate pieces if needed. Use the microwave's instructions for the food and container rather than assuming one defrost time works for every item.
How much clearance should you leave?
Use the clearances in the model's instructions and measure before placing a microwave on a shelf. GE calls for 3 in on each side and above, 1 in behind, and an unobstructed bottom.
Clearance needs can differ by model, so don't assume one microwave's spacing applies to another. If you're comparing a microwave with a toaster oven, our guides explain how a countertop oven works and what a countertop oven is.
Countertop microwave oven vs air fryer: which is better?
A microwave is usually the more direct choice for reheating and defrosting, while an air fryer is made for hot-air cooking and crisping. The right appliance depends on the texture and cooking tasks you want to handle.
Microwaves in this roundup focus on preset heating, power settings, turntables and defrost functions. For a fuller comparison of cooking uses and tradeoffs, read microwave oven vs air fryer.
If you have room for only one appliance, list the meals you make most often and choose based on those. Some kitchens use both because reheating and crisping are different jobs.
Which countertop microwave oven should you choose?
Choose the COMFEE' for compact everyday use with mute and ECO modes, the 1.2 cu. ft. Toshiba for sensor-assisted reheating, or the GE when you want more capacity with sensor controls.
Pick the Sharp for the largest cavity and turntable, if your counter can fit its wide footprint.
Measure first, then choose based on your largest regular dish, available clearance and preferred controls. That will narrow the best countertop microwave oven for your kitchen without paying for capacity you don't use.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
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1
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2
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3
Best for simple preset cooking
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
What size countertop microwave should I choose?
Choose a capacity that fits your usual dishes and the counter space you have. The picks here range from 0.7 cu. ft. compact models to 2.2 cu. ft. for larger portions.
Measure the space and check the microwave's stated dimensions, then leave the clearance its manufacturer requires.
Is a higher-wattage microwave better?
Higher output can shorten cooking time, but it isn't the only factor to compare. These picks range from 700W to 1200W, with different capacities and control features.
For simple reheating, consider the space and presets you need alongside wattage.
What does a microwave humidity sensor do?
A humidity sensor can adjust cooking time and power based on moisture from food. The 1.2 cu. ft.
Toshiba in this guide has Smart Sensor Technology for that purpose.
Sensor controls may suit reheating when you prefer an automatic setting, while manual time and power controls give you direct input.
Do countertop microwaves need ventilation space?
Yes, follow the clearance instructions for the specific model. GE calls for 3 in at each side and above, 1 in at the rear, and an unobstructed bottom for airflow.
Check the manual before placing any microwave in a tight shelf or cabinet.
