What are the best countertop microwaves? If you’re asking that question, we have the answer you need.
With so much choice around it can be difficult to make up your mind about which countertop microwave offers the bests option.
Take a look at our list of the top 3 countertop microwaves available to buy to help you make the decision.
What Are The Best Countertop Microwaves?
Contents
1 – Toshiba Countertop Microwave Oven ML2-EM09PA(BS)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| + 900 Watts of cooking power | – Some user reports of condensation build up |
| + 30 Second quick cook function & 10 unique power levels | – Requires clearance of 3″ to both sides and 12″ to the top for proper venting (not really a cons, unless you’re really short of space) |
| + Excellent value for money | – Could have better display which is easier to see |
| + Small compact size fits small countertops | |
| + Removable turntable (easy to clean interior) | |
| + Mute function (amazing feature when you’re craving for late night bowl of noodles) + ECO mode | |
| + 6 Automatic preset menus |
The Toshiba ML2-EM09PA(BS) countertop microwave oven is one of those rare occurrences where pretty much everything seems to have gone right with an appliance.
It has the looks, the cooking performance, the value for money and high user ratings you’d want when looking for a countertop microwave.
Cooking Performance:
With 800 watts of cooking power you’ll be able to get your food exactly how you want it. The Toshiba ML2-EM09PA(BS) comes with handy express cooking that will let you set the time in 30 second increments up to 6 minutes for a quick cook.
To get the full advantage of the power, you’ll get 11 different levels to pick from giving great flexibility. This also includes a defrost function.
Value For Money
At this price range you’ll be very hard pressed to find a microwave that can offer the features, performance and high user ratings that the Toshiba ML2-EM09PA(BS) for any cheaper.
The excellent value for money is something that is often noted in user reviews and it is hard to argue at this kind of price.
Capacity:
The Toshiba ML2-EM09PA(BS) offers a 20 litre internal capacity which would be well suited to small family or household.
Special Features:
For added peace of mind if you have young children the Toshiba ML2-EM09PA(BS) comes with a child safety lock.
Drawbacks:
The only real persistently reported downside amongst user reviews to the Toshiba ML2-EM09PA(BS) countertop microwave seems to be build up of condensation. This requires the user to leave the door open/wipe down after use.
Summary:
Overall the Toshiba ML2-EM09PA(BS) countertop microwave offers a great choice if you need a microwave that cooks well, has great user reviews and offers brilliant value for money. At this price range it is difficult to come up with a better option.
Key Features:
| Capacity | 25 Litres / 0.9 cubic feet |
| Power Rating | 900 Watts |
| Dimensions | 15.9 x 19.2 x 11.5 inches |
| Weight | 11.2kg |
| Type | Solo |
| Installation Type | Countertop |
2 -SHARP Countertop Microwave
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| + 800 Watts with 5 power levels | – Can be hard to push door button |
| + Up to 35 minute timer | |
| + Excellent value for money |
Sharp’s YC-MS01U-B countertop microwave is one of the best selling microwaves around and it is easy to see why.
Cooking Performance:
It offers 800W of cooking power across 5 levels giving you ample flexibility when it comes to getting your food just how you want it.
To help you get the most out of its functions, it comes equipped with a timer that be set to up to 35 minutes.
Value For Money:
To find a microwave that’s this highly rated amongst users, looks great and offers such great value for money is difficult – perhaps only our number #1 pick can rival it and even then it’s a close call.
For this price, you get a microwave that does its job well and looks good doing it.
Capacity:
At 20 litres, the Sharp’s YC-MS01U-B countertop microwave provides ample cooking capacity whether you’re living on your own, as a couple or with a family.
Drawbacks:
In amongst some generally positive reviews, the major downside appears to be how hard you need to press the push button to open the door. As a result the microwave can sometimes slide backward.
Summary:
The Sharp’s YC-MS01U-B countertop microwave offers very good value for money when you consider how highly rated it is. Though it does have its drawbacks, it’s a solid option if you need a microwave that performs well and fits your budget.
Key Features:
| Capacity | 20 Litres |
| Power Rating | 800 Watts |
| Dimensions | 32.4 x 44 x 25.8 cm |
| Weight | 12.4kg |
| Type | Solo |
| Installation Type | Countertop |
3 – Faberware Countertop Microwave
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| + 1000 Watts with 10 power levels | – Larger in size for small countertop |
| + Auto-cook menu | – Little Less energy efficient than its counterparts |
| + Auto defrost with weight setting | |
| + Stainless steel interior & exterior | |
| + Large capacity of 31 Litres | |
| + LED lighting and Child Lock |
The Faberware countertop microwave is relatively new in microwave market but manages to give you pretty much everything you’d need in a microwave with the added benefit of looking super-slick. But to really top it off, it does so at a price you’d difficult to resist.
Cooking Performance:
Let’s start with what counts the most – how well it cooks. This is something that is mentioned time and again in user reviews.
With 800 or 1000 watts of cooking power you’ll get a microwave that can handle a range of needs. Additionally, you’ll also have 10 power levels to let you vary the power just as you need it.
There’s also a range of auto-cook menus to help you take the guess work out of making your favourite foods.
In addition, you’ll also get defrost functions including one where you just need to enter the weight of your food.
Value For Money:
As far as value for money goes, the Faberware microwave stacks up well. The combination of excellent design, satisfied users and brilliant value make it a difficult package to beat.
Capacity:
The Faberware countertop microwave comes with 31 litres of capacity which would suit most households.
Drawbacks:
One of the most noticeable drawbacks appears to be that it is smaller than some users expect. As such it is worth making sure you double check what you need in terms of the dishes you expect to use against the product dimensions mentioned on the description.
Summary:
All in all the Faberware countertop microwave is stylish and highly rated option from a well renowned brand. It gives you everything you’d need from a microwave of this nature and does so at a great price.
Key Features:
| Capacity | 31 Litres |
| Power Rating | 1000 Watts |
| Dimensions | External – 16.54″D x 20.2″W x 12.03″H; Internal – (H)20.82 x (W)30.6 x (D)30.6 cm |
| Weight | 11kg |
| Type | Solo |
| Installation Type | Countertop |
What Are The Best Countertop Microwaves that you found in 2022?: Tell Us Your Thoughts.