Best Countertop Microwaves to Buy in February 2026
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior Black Color 1000W
- SMART SENSOR TECHNOLOGY ENSURES PERFECTLY COOKED MEALS EVERY TIME!
- 6 PRESET MENUS FOR POPULAR FOODS MAKE COOKING A BREEZE!
- 10 POWER LEVELS PROVIDE ULTIMATE COOKING FLEXIBILITY AND CONTROL!
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor, 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior, 1000W, Silver
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SMART SENSOR TECHNOLOGY ENSURES PERFECTLY COOKED MEALS EVERY TIME.
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6 PRESET MENUS MAKE COOKING POPULAR FOODS QUICK AND EASY.
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TAILOR COOKING WITH 10 POWER LEVELS FOR ULTIMATE CULINARY FLEXIBILITY.
COMFEE' EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black
- SAVE ENERGY WITH ECO MODE-REDUCES STANDBY POWER BY 50%!
- QUICK MEALS: ONE-TOUCH EXPRESS COOKING AND EASY AUTO-COOK OPTIONS!
- CHILD SAFETY LOCK AND MUTE FUNCTION ENSURE WORRY-FREE COOKING.
TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Countertop, Black Stainless Steel
- SAFE FOR KIDS: TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK PREVENTS ACCIDENTAL MICROWAVE USE.
- VERSATILE COOKING: SIX PRESET MENUS & 11 POWER LEVELS FOR FLEXIBILITY.
- QUICK & QUIET: EASY DEFROSTING AND MUTE MODE FOR HASSLE-FREE COOKING.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button - Black
- QUICK COOKING OPTIONS: SIX PRESETS FOR FAST AND EASY MEAL PREP!
- CUSTOM POWER LEVELS: 10 SETTINGS FOR VERSATILE COOKING & MELTING!
- SAFETY FEATURES: CHILD LOCK AND MUTE OPTION FOR WORRY-FREE USE!
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft
- SIMPLIFY COOKING WITH PRE-PROGRAMMED BUTTONS FOR ALL MEALS!
- POWERFUL 1050W MICROWAVE ENSURES RAPID AND EFFICIENT COOKING!
- USER-FRIENDLY DESIGN WITH LARGE DISPLAY AND PUSH-BUTTON ACCESS.
Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - Stainless
- QUICK MEALS IN MINUTES WITH 700W POWER AND SIMPLE TOUCH CONTROLS.
- CUSTOMIZABLE COOKING WITH 10 POWER LEVELS AND 6 ONE-TOUCH PRESETS.
- COMPACT 0.7 CU FT DESIGN PERFECT FOR SMALL SPACES AND EASY CLEANING.
TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Countertop, Stainless Steel
- CHILD SAFETY FIRST: TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK PREVENTS ACCIDENTAL USE.
- VERSATILE COOKING: 6 PRESET MENUS FOR HASSLE-FREE MEAL PREP.
- CUSTOM POWER LEVELS: 11 LEVELS FOR PRECISE COOKING CONTROL.
In 2025, the question of whether a microwave can be placed on the counter remains as relevant as ever. With evolving kitchen designs and a strong emphasis on convenience, countertop microwaves continue to be a popular choice for many households. This article explores the practicality, considerations, and advantages of having a microwave on the counter, helping you decide the best option for your kitchen space.
Why Choose a Countertop Microwave?
Countertop microwaves are favored for their versatility and accessibility. Here are some reasons why you might consider placing a microwave on your counter:
- Ease of Access: Countertop microwaves are typically at eye level, ensuring easy access for everyone in the family, including children and seniors.
- Flexibility: Unlike built-in or over-the-range models, countertop microwaves can be relocated if you decide to rearrange your kitchen layout or move to a new home.
- Cost-Effective: Generally, countertop models are more affordable than their built-in counterparts, making them an economical choice for many households.
Considerations for Placing a Microwave on the Counter
When deciding to place a microwave on your counter, it's important to assess your kitchen's layout and your personal cooking habits. Here are a few factors to consider:
- Space Availability: Ensure that you have adequate counter space to accommodate your microwave without crowding other essential appliances or prep areas.
- Ventilation Needs: Proper ventilation is crucial to avoid overheating. Ensure that there's enough space around the microwave to allow for adequate airflow.
- Aesthetic Integration: Consider how the microwave will fit with your kitchen's overall design. Some models come in various finishes and colors to match your kitchen decor.
How to Choose the Right Countertop Microwave
Selecting the right microwave involves more than just picking the first model you come across. Consider the following aspects to make an informed decision:
Size and Capacity
- Family Size: Consider the size of your household. Smaller models are ideal for solo living or couples, while larger families may require a microwave with a greater capacity.
- Available Space: Measure the area on your counter where you plan to place the microwave to ensure a good fit.
Features and Functions
- Basic Functions: Look for essential features like defrost, reheat, and cook settings.
- Advanced Features: Depending on your needs, you might want a microwave with advanced features like convection cooking or smart technology integration.
- Energy Efficiency: Opt for models that consume less energy. For further insights, check out this article on energy efficiency in microwaves.
Brands and Warranty
- Reputable Brands: Research brands known for reliability and customer service.
- Warranty Terms: A generous warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment over time.
Maintaining Your Countertop Microwave
Regular maintenance can prolong the life of your microwave and keep it running efficiently. Here are simple tips to keep your appliance in top condition:
- Clean the interior regularly to avoid the buildup of food particles.
- Consider refreshing your microwave periodically. For more tips, visit freshen microwave tips.
Conclusion
In 2025, having a microwave on the counter can still offer practicality and convenience. By carefully considering space, features, and maintenance, you can select the right model that suits your lifestyle and enhances your kitchen. If you're looking for compact options, don't miss these compact microwave offers. Remember, the right microwave can be a trusty kitchen companion that simplifies your cooking tasks for years to come.