Best Countertop Microwaves to Buy in January 2026
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
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SIX PRESETS FOR EASY COOKING: QUICK-START MEALS WITH ONE-TOUCH BUTTONS!
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CUSTOM POWER LEVELS: CHOOSE FROM 10 SETTINGS FOR PERFECT RESULTS EVERY TIME.
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CHILD SAFETY LOCK: ENSURE SAFETY WITH A LOCKABLE CONTROL PANEL FEATURE.
TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, Perfect for Apartment, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Black Stainless Steel
- CHILD SAFETY FIRST: TWO-STEP LOCK PREVENTS UNINTENDED USE BY KIDS.
- VERSATILE COOKING: 6 PRESET MENUS AND 11 POWER LEVELS FOR ALL DISHES.
- CONVENIENT FEATURES: EASY DEFROST & ONE-TOUCH START MAKE COOKING A BREEZE.
Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - Stainless
- QUICK MEALS IN MINUTES WITH 1000W POWER AND EASY SETTINGS.
- CUSTOM COOKING WITH 10 POWER LEVELS AND 6 ONE-TOUCH OPTIONS.
- COMPACT 1.1 CU FT SIZE FITS ANY SPACE, PERFECT FOR HOME OR OFFICE.
GE GCST10A1WSS 1.0 Cu Ft Convection Microwave Oven, 1050W Countertop Air Fry Microwave with Broil & Crisper Pan, Compact Stainless Steel Design
- COMPACT DESIGN: FITS PERFECTLY IN DORMS, OFFICES, AND KITCHENS.
- VERSATILE COOKING MODES: AIR FRY, CONVECTION, AND BROIL FOR ALL MEALS.
- CHILD SAFETY LOCK: TWO-STEP LOCK PREVENTS UNINTENDED USE BY KIDS.
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft
- PRE-PROGRAMMED OPTIONS FOR EFFORTLESS MEAL PREP AT YOUR FINGERTIPS.
- POWERFUL 1050W COOKING WITH 10 SETTINGS FOR PERFECT RESULTS.
- USER-FRIENDLY DESIGN WITH LARGE DISPLAY AND EASY ACCESS DOOR.
TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, Perfect for Apartments & Dorms, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Stainless Steel
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SAFE TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK FOR PEACE OF MIND WITH YOUNG KIDS.
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VERSATILE 11 POWER LEVELS FOR CUSTOMIZED COOKING OPTIONS.
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QUICK ONE-TOUCH START FOR INSTANT COOKING CONVENIENCE.
FRIGIDAIRE EMW733BLACKAMZ 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black
- INTUITIVE DIGITAL PANEL FOR EASY EXPRESS COOKING AND CONTROL.
- DUAL DEFROST TIMERS FOR CUSTOMIZED MEAL PREPARATION AND WARMING.
- CHILD SAFETY LOCK AND CLEAR DISPLAY FOR SAFE, WORRY-FREE COOKING.
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 12.4" Carousel Turntable, 1000 Watt, 1.1 Cubic Feet, Black
- STYLISH BLACK/WHITE DESIGN WITH A SLEEK GRAY INTERIOR.
- 10 POWER LEVELS FOR CUSTOMIZABLE COOKING AND 2-STAGE OPTIONS.
- INSTANT START AND AUTO COOK FEATURES FOR EFFORTLESS MEAL PREP.
As families grow and their needs evolve, selecting the right kitchen appliances becomes crucial. Countertop microwaves remain a staple due to their convenience and efficiency. In 2025, choosing the best countertop microwave for a family involves understanding the latest features and technologies. This SEO-optimized guide will walk you through the essential considerations without endorsing specific products. For further reading, consider exploring our articles on the best microwave for college 2025 or microwave technology comparison.
Understanding the Basics of Countertop Microwaves
Countertop microwaves are popular due to their ease of use, portability, and affordability. They are intended to sit on the kitchen counter, providing flexibility in kitchen design. Unlike built-in models, countertop microwaves do not require professional installation, making them an appealing choice for many families.
Key Features to Consider
When choosing the best countertop microwave for your family, several factors should be considered:
Capacity and Size
The microwave's interior capacity should align with your family's cooking needs. A larger capacity (1.5-2.2 cubic feet) is ideal for families, allowing you to fit larger dishes or multiple servings. However, ensure that the microwave fits well in your kitchen space without overcrowding your counter.
Power Output
Measured in watts, the power output determines how quickly and evenly food cooks. A model with 800 to 1200 watts is generally sufficient for most family needs. Higher wattage can provide faster cooking times, which is beneficial for busy households.
Cooking Programs
Modern microwaves often feature various pre-programmed settings for reheating, defrosting, and cooking specific foods. These can add convenience and precision to your cooking. Look for models that offer diversified programs to cater to different family members' preferences.
Safety Features
If you have children at home, consider microwaves with child safety locks to prevent accidental operation. This feature is crucial for ensuring kitchen safety and peace of mind.
Advanced Technological Features
As technology advances, microwaves are becoming increasingly sophisticated. For a deeper dive into different technologies, explore our microwave technology comparison.
Inverter Technology
Inverter technology allows for more even cooking by maintaining a consistent temperature, rather than the on-off cycles of traditional models. This ensures that food is heated evenly, preserving texture and taste.
Smart Features
Smart microwaves can connect to Wi-Fi and integrate with other smart home devices, offering remote control and monitoring. These features can greatly enhance convenience, especially for tech-savvy families.
Nutritional Considerations
A common concern about microwave cooking is its impact on nutrient retention. Microwave ovens, contrary to popular belief, can preserve nutrients effectively due to shorter cooking times and minimal water usage. For more on this topic, see our discussion on microwave ovens and nutrients in 2026.
Conclusion
Choosing the best countertop microwave for your family in 2026 involves evaluating capacity, power, features, and modern technological advancements suited to your household's lifestyle. By considering these factors, you can ensure that this essential kitchen appliance meets your family's needs, offering both convenience and functionality.
For more insights on microwaves suited for different needs, check out our guides on the best microwave for college 2025 and a comparison of microwave technologies.