Best Microwaves in 2022

Under $400 price

The best microwaves will offer convenience to cook and heat up your delicious meals in no time. Not only will they be simple to use and to clean, but the best microwaves will come with handy features to make life easier. These can include automatic programs to set the time by the weight of the dish, or even multi-functional ones that can grill, bake and air fry. You can even find ones with a popcorn setting which is handy for those movie nights. 

 

With so many different types on the market, it can often be tricky to know which  microwave is suitable for your home. There are a few things to consider such as the power, design and capacity. Ranging from a smart-enabled microwave to a compact style to suit small kitchens. We’ve selected the best microwaves to suit every home, lifestyle and budget.   

Best Microwaves in 2022
1 Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Microwave Oven
More details +

Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Microwave Oven

This Toshiba 1.2 Cubic feet 1100 watt Black Stainless Steel microwave is the ideal size for apartment kitchens or office break rooms. Sensor reheating lets you optimally cook six of the most popular food items with the touch of a button. Choose from ten power levels up to 1100 watts. The large digital display has a clock function and can also display a countdown timer as well as the cooking time remaining. Program up to three favorite time and power combinations for additional one-touch convenience. Easily open or close the microwave with the large, easy-to grip door handle. The Black Stainless Steel exterior looks good in any kitchen.
Added to wishlistRemoved from wishlist 0
9.8
  • Pre-programmed sensor menu for optimum heating of popular foods like pizza, potatoes, veggies and more; Rated Voltage: 120V – 60Hz
  • Black Stainless Steel exterior, 20.5 x 17.1 x 12.8 inch (w x d x h), large 1.2 cubic feet capacity, cavity 13.07 x 15 x 9.5 inch (w x d x h), turn table 12.4 inch (diameter)
  • 1100 watts with 10 power settings, clock, and kitchen timer
  • Large digital display, easy-to-read control panel, glass turntable
  • 1100 watts with 10 power settings, clock, and kitchen timer
  • One touch start popcorn and two defrost settings – custom or one-pound auto defro Turntable diameter: 12.4 inches
  • Large digital display, easy-to-read control panel, power saving mode, sound on/off option, glass turntable. Rated input power (microwave): 1550 watt

 

2 BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven
More details +

BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven

BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 700 Watt 0.7 cu. ft. Digital Microwave Oven, Stainless Steel.
Added to wishlistRemoved from wishlist 0
9.7
  • Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate
  • 700 Watts with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 Seconds Express Cooking
  • Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 10” glass turntable
  • Push-button door release for easy access
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”
  • UL approved. One year limited

 

3 Farberware Classic FMO11AHTBKN 1.1 Cu. Ft. 1000-Watt Microwave Oven
More details +

Farberware Classic FMO11AHTBKN 1.1 Cu. Ft. 1000-Watt Microwave Oven

This Farberware FMO11AHTBKN 1.1 Cu. Ft. 1000-Watt metallic red microwave oven is the ideal size for office break rooms or home kitchens. 6 ONE touch cooking programs lets you optimally cook six of the most popular food items with the touch of a button. Choose from ten power levels up to 1000 watts on this countertop microwave ovens. The large digital screen has a clock feature and can display a countdown timer in addition to the cooking time remaining. The memory function let you customize and save your favorite cook settings for added one-touch benefit. Quickly open or shut the microwave oven with the large, easy-to grip door and the child safety lock function provides an added level of security. The Metallic Red Stainless-Steel exterior looks great in any type of cooking area.
Added to wishlistRemoved from wishlist 0
9.6
  • QUICK & EASY: Prepare meals and snacks in a snap with this compact microwave that packs 1000 Watts of output power. 1-6 min. Express cooking and plus 30 sec. Button offer simple press-and-go speed while the memory function lets your store your most used customized settings
  • CONVENIENT: Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. metallic red microwave oven is the ideal anywhere you need it countertop microwave solution for home or office. Full-sized cooking that fits in a compact space.
  • COOK EASY & POWERFUL: Microwave offers 10 power levels with multi-stage cooking. Fully customize your cooking with 6 one-touch cooking programs including popcorn, potato, and pizza. Defrost by weight or by time settings help make quick work of any cooking task
  • GET A CLEAR VIEW: The LED display with kitchen timer and clock lets you keep track of time while the easy-view interior LED lighting lets you keep an eye on cooking
  • STYLE & FUNCTION: Stylish Black Stainless-Steel front and handle for a stylish, elegant look and the child safety lock function provides an added level of security
  • INTERIOR DIMENSION: 14.5 x 9.1; Exterior Dimension: 20.2 x 16.54 x 12; Turntable diameter: 12.5 inches
  • MODEL: FMO11AHTBKN
4 Panasonic Microwave Oven
More details +

Panasonic Microwave Oven

When it comes to everything you expect in a microwave, nothing compares with the defrosting, cooking and reheating capability of the Panasonic NN-SN97JS Countertop/Built-In Cyclonic Wave Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology and Genius Sensor. At every temperature level, Cyclonic Wave circulates heat in precision, ultra-efficient 3D waves for easier, more versatile food preparation--even with denser, more complex food textures. This exceptional 1250-Watt, 2. 2-cubic-foot capacity stainless steel microwave with 16. 5-inch turntable also includes patented Inverter Technology which, unlike traditional microwaves that rely on pulse-on, pulse-off power at lower temperatures, delivers a constant stream of cooking power at every temperature for more evenly cooked meals - edges to centers - every time. With the touch of the Genius Sensor cooking button, this microwave takes guesswork out of creating a great meal by automatically setting power levels and adjusting cooking or defrosting time for added time-saving convenience.
Added to wishlistRemoved from wishlist 0
9.5
$329.99
Read full review
  • PANASONIC COUNTERTOP MICROWAVE OVEN CYCLONIC INVERTER: This 1250-Watt high power, 2. 2-cubic-foot capacity stainless steel countertop/built-in microwave maintains the full flavor and nutrients of your favorite foods with Cyclonic Wave technology for ultra-efficient cooking at all temperature levels
  • INVERTER TECHNOLOGY WITH TURBO DEFROST: patented Inverter Technology generates a seamless stream of power and delivers consistent, evenly prepared food without overcooking; advanced Inverter Turbo Defrost speeds up defrosting time
  • LARGE FAMILY SIZE: This countertop microwave with 16. 5-inch turntable is thinner, lighter and more efficient, allowing you to devote less space to electronics and more to interior capacity; internal dimensions (H x W x D): 10-15/16-inch x 18-7/16-inch x 18-1/2-inch
  • SMART COOKING SETTING: Built-in automatic sensor adjusts power and times based on different foods; other advantages include 20 preset menu items, quick-minute timer, delay start and child safety lock
  • FOOD WARMING FEATURE: This Inverter microwave keeps soups, gravies or desserts warm and fresh until get ready to serve.Power requirement:120V 60Hz, 12.7A1480W, AC only
5 Commercial Chef CHM660 Counter Top Microwave
More details +

Commercial Chef CHM660 Counter Top Microwave

The Commercial Chef small countertop microwave provides a compact footprint while packing a punch with up to 600 watts of power. With 0.6 cubic feet of interior space, this kitchen microwave is perfect for preparing snacks, heating up leftovers and defrosting for food preparation. Easy to operate with just 2 mechanical turn dials that control 6 microwave power levels and up to 30 minutes of cooking time. 9.5" removable glass turntable is dishwasher safe. Turntable automatically rotates contents to provide even cooking throughout and to prevent one side cooking quicker or slower than the other. Grip handle for easy open and shut-close door operation.
Added to wishlistRemoved from wishlist 0
9.4
  • SMALL, COMPACT DESIGN: Kitchen countertop microwave is great for small living spaces such as dorm rooms and apartments. Ideal for small kitchens with limited countertop space.
  • EASY TO OPERATE: The mechanical dials on this small microwave control 6 cooking power levels and timer for simple operation. Just turn the dial and this Commercial Chef microwave does the rest
  • 6 COOKING POWER LEVELS: 6 cooking levels with up to 600 watts of power make this microwave oven suitable for a variety of cooking tasks. Whether quickly reheating leftovers, defrosting veggies or preparing frozen dinners, this countertop microwave easily adjusts to meet your needs.
  • UP TO 30 MINUTE TIMER: Easily cook, reheat or defrost to your needs with the simple dial that offers timing intervals between 1 to 30 minutes. Turn the dial and the compact microwave will automatically shut off when the timer is complete.
  • REMOVABLE 9.5″ TURNTABLE: The included 9.5″ glass turntable holds a variety of microwave-safe plates, bowls and containers while providing an easy-to-clean surface. Turntable is removable for dishwasher safe cleaning.
6 BLACK+DECKER EM036AB14 Digital Microwave Oven
More details +

BLACK+DECKER EM036AB14 Digital Microwave Oven

This professional-style Black + Decker 1.4 Cubic Foot 1000 Watt Stainless Steel Microwave features 10 power levels, removable glass turntable and a spacious interior. Advanced technology provides even heating and defrosting for great results without overcooking. Optimally cook or reheat six of the most popular food items with the touch of a button. Choose power levels up to 1000 watts. The large LED digital display has a clock function and can also display a countdown timer as well as the cooking time remaining.;The product voltage arrange is 110V
Added to wishlistRemoved from wishlist 0
9.3
$148.49
Read full review
  • Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate
  • 1000 Watts with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 Seconds Express Cooking
  • Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 12.4” glass turntable
  • Push-button door release for easy access
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 20.4” x 16.9” x 12.4”, Internal dimensions: 13.82” x 15.98” x 9.80” (W*D*H); Color of door frame is stainless steel, enclosure is black

Best Microwaves in 2022 Year

Buyer's Guide, Comparison and Advices

What are the best microwaves?

After extensive research, we found the best microwave overall has to be the Toshiba EM925A5A. It offers an all-round performance, cooking evenly and offering plenty of preprogrammed settings and power levels. It’s available at a good price as well at just over $100, which makes it the best microwave out there. 

Back to school and the best microwaves for students

Summer will be over before you know it so it’s time to start thinking about back to school sales. The best microwaves for students are always in high demand in the lead to schools returning, so it pays to start shopping as early as possible. For those heading off to college, you’ll want a multi-functional, microwave that is suitable for your cooking needs. Right now many of our favorite picks are currently on sale making now the ideal time to buy one of the best microwaves. Be sure to follow our back to school guide for all of your shopping needs this season. 

 

Best Microwaves in 2022

A microwave oven is an electric oven that heats and cooks food by exposing it to electromagnetic radiation in the microwave frequency range. This induces polar molecules in the food to rotate and produce thermal energy in a process known as dielectric heating. Microwave ovens heat foods quickly and efficiently because excitation is fairly uniform in the outer 25–38 mm of a homogeneous, high water content food item.

How to choose the best microwave for you

There are two main types of microwave available: countertop and over the range. Here’s what you need to know about each of them, as well as other specifications and features you should keep in mind while choosing your next microwave.

Type

Type 

Countertop: These appliances sit on your countertop next to your cutting board and toaster. They don’t require any installation other than being plugged into a nearby electrical outlet. 

 

Over-the-range: Also known as OTR, built-in, or microwave hood, these units are installed above your range, freeing up countertop space and providing a vent that sucks in and filters out smoke and odors from cooking. They require professional installation, as they will be attached to the cabinets or the wall behind them and hooked up to electrical wiring.

 

The most common size is just under 30 inches wide and about 16 inches deep. Most have a left to right door opening, but some high-end models may have a door that opens downward as on a conventional oven. Either way, check to ensure that any adjacent cabinet-door fittings will not block the microwave or make it awkward to open. Keep in mind. OTRs are less convenient to access, especially for children or anyone wheelchair-bound. Also, be aware that while they do provide ventilation, they don’t exhaust as well as a hood that vents to the outside. 

 

Wattage

Microwaves are rated by the number of watts that they give out. Wattage can vary from 500 to 1500. For the most part, the larger the oven, the higher the wattage and the faster the oven will cook. However, other factors, like the size and shape of the cavity, can also affect cooking time. You should find 800-1200 watts sufficient.

Size   

Be sure to measure both your space and the microwave you are considering purchasing, including its height to make sure it can fit under a countertop. 

 

Microwave oven capacity is given in cubic feet but that number. doesn’t give you a realistic estimate of usable space.  Virtually all microwaves have turntables and it’s more important to measure the turntable. Its diameter will affect how big a dish the oven will be able to hold. If you have a favorite microwavable baking dish, either measure it from handle end to handle end or bring it to the store to determine if it will be able to rotate on the turntable. There are a few models that give you the option of deactivating the turntable. However, microwaves heat more evenly with the turntable rotating so we only recommend that you plan on using that feature occasionally to warm up food on a large platter or cook a lasagna. 

Deal of Day
Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Microwave Oven
$94.76
Hurry Up! Offer ends soon.

Features

Sensors cook or defrost foods automatically to a precise degree of doneness. They measure the moisture given off  during heating before calculating cooking time; they tailor the time to the actual food rather than cook for a predetermined amount of time.

 

Preprogrammed keys have preset power levels and times for functions like popping popcorn, cooking bacon, and melting butter. Although most microwaves will have a popcorn button, the other choices will vary from model to model. These programs always cook for the same amount of time regardless of the actual food. Sometimes you are given the option to select the quantity or package size. 

 

Express Keys for 1-minute or 30-seconds or the number on the key let you cook quickly without giving much thought to a precise time or power level.  

 

Convection Cooking or Grilling is available on many ovens. This capability adds considerably to the cost. While it can come in handy, especially around the holidays when you need extra oven space, it rarely works as well as a full-size oven or even some toaster ovens. 

When to replace a microwave

Most microwaves will come with a one year warranty, although the National Association of Home Builders report the average lifespan to be around nine years. Extended warranties are available, but we don’t recommend buying one, as it tends to cost more than any potential repairs. Extended warranties can even cost as much as a new microwave. 

 

Any minor damage, such as a faulty door handle or cracked glass turntable, can be replaced easily. These aren’t very expensive to fix either. Consider the charge before calling up a serviceperson though — a new microwave can cost less than the visit, so check this beforehand. This tends to be the case unless the microwave is built-in. Whatever kind of microwave you own, if the magnetron or control panel have suffered damage, then a replacement is necessary.

Winner Of Top price
- 8% Panasonic Microwave Oven
$329.99
Already Sold: 12 Available: 16
75 %
Hurry Up! Offer ends soon.
days
0
0
hours
0
0
minutes
0
0
seconds
0
0

Features to look out for

These days, microwaves are designed to offer more convenience as well as to look more aesthetically pleasing. Some models now come with touch controls and feature a door-release button rather than a handle on the door itself. Many also come with more compact designs which can fit larger turntables too. Useful features to have include a control lock for safety, quick start buttons for convenience and a self-clean function, although the latter is quite rare. Sensory programs have also been introduced which can automatically set the time based on the weight and food type.

 

Smart microwaves are relatively new to the market. When connected, you can essentially control these from your smartphone or by your voice using Alexa or Google Assistant.  Some smart microwaves can even scan barcodes to predetermine the best settings!

Menards Official Site
Logo
Enable registration in settings - general
Shopping cart