How to choose best microwave ovens for your kitchen?

Microwaves are loved by everyone for their convenience, versatility, and relatively low price-point. Plus today's countertop microwaves can do so much more than warming up leftovers, heating frozen meals, and making popcorn. Try steaming veggies, like spaghetti squash and potatoes, crisping bacon, and even making poached eggs — and you'll get delicious results much faster than from a stove top or oven. So it’s no surprise that 96 percent of U.S. households own a microwave and over two-thirds of those prefer countertop microwaves.

Unlike built-in or over-the-range microwaves, countertop microwaves do not require any special installation and can easily be moved. Even if you have a small kitchen with limited counter space, there are plenty of great compact options. Also, they are generally more affordable — most of the countertop microwaves we've evaluated over the past decade were under $200 and many of our best microwaves in 2020 are under $100.

 Here are two best countertop microwaves you can buy in 2020, including a combination of ones we tested, tried out at home, and recommend based on especially unique features and top reviews:

Best Small Microwave: Toshiba EM925A5A

Source: Amazon

At a price point around $80, this compact Toshiba EM925A5A microwave is a great buy. Its 0.9 cu. ft. footprint means that it can fit on almost every countertop. Its 900 Watt cooking power, though lower than some of the others on this list, is adequate for most small families. It comes with 6 essential preset buttons for your convenience, meaning your perfectly cooked popcorn is just a touch away.

An exciting feature of this microwave is that you can turn the indicator sounds off. This product has a stainless steel construction with two color options. And the elegant design and color of the microwave can match with any kitchen decors. Your kitchen will become well-ordered and modern.

There are six preset menus for you to make delicious popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverage and dinner plate. The machine starts at one touch and reaches full power after only 1 to 6 minutes.

Product Specifications

Weight	27.3 pounds
Exterior dimensions	19.2 x 15.9 x 11.5 inches
Interior dimensions	12.36 x 13.66 x 8.7 inches
Turntable diameter	10.6 inches
Oven capacity	0.9 cubic feet
Power	900 watts
Number of power levels	10
Number of preset menus	6

 

 

Pros	Cons
Easy to use	Doesn’t always heat evenly
Great value for its performance
Compact size

Shop now at amazon

Samsung MG14H3020CM Compact Microwave Oven

Source: Amazon

The Samsung MG14H3020CM microwave has a glossy design that will loke very shiny in your kitchen. The exterior surface is scratch-resistant that is easy to clean and maintain. You just need to wipe away grease and oil with a damp cloth.

With the 12 auto cook options, you can prepare any meal for your family with just one press. One unique feature of this microwave is that it has the grilling functions for you to make any of your favourite crispy dishes.

 Product Specifications

Weight	41.9 pounds
Exterior dimensions	18.1 x 21.9 x 12.3 inches
Interior dimensions	10-3/8 x 14-3/4 x 15-7/16 inches
Turntable diameter	Not specified
Oven capacity	1.4 cubic feet
Power	950 watts
Number of power levels	10
Number of preset menus	12

Pros	Cons
Automatic heat and defrost system	Not providing safety lock and mute options
Easy to clean with a damp cloth	Not showing the temperature of your cooking process
Simple LED display
Providing grilling element
Shiny and glossy look

Shop now at amazon

Conclusion

Microwaves add so much cooking convenience that it’s hard to even picture a modern home without one. With so many models, features, and functions to choose from, you’ll have no trouble finding one that seamlessly blends in with your kitchen design, cooking habits, and lifestyle.

We hope you found this overview of microwaves, and our top picks, helpful. As always, we’re here for you. Give us a call, or schedule an appointment to meet with one of our appliance experts to get individual help choosing the best microwave for your home.