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The Best Countertop Microwave Ovens in 2021

September 30, 2021 *

The microwave oven is frequently a polarizing topic among cooks at all cooking levels. People sometimes worry about the safety of using these ovens since they do use “microwaves,” a technology that passes electromagnetic waves through the food within them.

But after using them for nearly three-quarters of a century, it seems like they’re here to stay. Even better, Dr. Axe notes that microwaves are safe to use when used according to manufacturer’s instructions and on a limited basis — think heating up a cold cup of coffee or frozen dinner versus a whole meal.

Further, manufacturers now create microwave ovens with more safety precautions in mind than ever. If you want to invest in a new microwave oven for your kitchen, office, dorm, or workshop, many options are available from a huge range of brands. Remember that an extended warranty is vital if you use your microwave as your primary food heating element.

Let’s take a look at some of the best countertop microwaves in 2021.

The Best Countertop Microwaves in 2021

Like nearly any other appliance out there, the market is crammed full of microwaves with a range of features, specifications, and options. Most of the time, you probably want to hit the desired time and hear the corn start popping. But it’s not that simple, especially when you want something built to last.

Here are the best countertop microwaves around that you might want to take a closer look at.

AmazonBasics Voice-Controlled Microwave

Consumer Reports states that AmazonBasics sits as the pack leader when it comes to budget-friendly countertop microwaves. The consumer advocacy website shares that budget-conscious countertop microwave ovens are notoriously underpowered compared to over-the-range and higher-priced countertop models, but this one stands out.

Not by much, but it does stand out in this field. Priced between $53.99 and $74.99, the AmazonBasics microwave features a defrosting feature and quiet operations that put it at the top of the list. Unfortunately, it falls short on heating, but that is often the case with countertop brands and models.

Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN966S Countertop Built-in with Inverter Technology

At the pricier end of the spectrum at $299 is the Panasonic NN-SN966S, featuring 1250W of power, giving you fast, even heating. In addition, this 2.2 cubic feet model features 16.5 inches of diameter interior turntable space, giving you all the room you need to heat dinner for the family or a full course of leftovers.

Special features include:

Inverter Technology with Turbo Defrost
Smart cooking settings
Keep warm feature

General GEW1000E

Featuring a price tag between $264.99 and $299.99, the General GEW100E has everything you need and then some for heating food in a hurry. While this price tag might be high for college students or a workplace unit, it’s worth the expense if you can swing it. Here are some top reasons why this microwave is so great:

Heats food quickly and evenly, earning consistently strong ratings
Runs quietly and smoothly
All controls are intuitive

The only noted downside to this machine is its lack of a defrosting feature, but all the other specifications might win you over despite that omission.

Toshiba EC042A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven with Convection and Smart Sensor

The Toshiba EC042A5C-BS is excellent for steaming and reheating meals and has a price of $189.99. With most microwaves, you can’t do much when it comes to trying to brown foods. With Toshiba’s convection feature, you can now do a fair amount of browning and traditional cooking.

Moreover, you can combine the convection and microwave features to enjoy both functions simultaneously, enjoying fast heating and food browning in one session. You can even use it to make a crispy pizza or French fries.

Farberware 1.2 Cu. Ft. 1100-Watt Microwave Oven with Grill ECO Mode

What this microwave lacks in power, it makes up for in reasonable pricing and food grilling. At prices ranging from $110 to $220, you not only get a decent-sized food warmer, but you can switch functions to do some grilling. The grilling feature alone helps this basic microwave stand out, allowing you to warm, brown, and crisp your favorite foods, quickly and evenly.

Protect Your Countertop Microwave With Upsie

Any of these microwaves can help you heat up or cook a quick meal in a snap. However, microwaves, like all small appliances, are prone to damage. Luckily, Upsie provides affordable small appliance warranties for microwaves and other appliances.

Upsie’s microwave warranties are comprehensive and affordable, often more than 70 percent more affordable than other warranty options. In addition, Upsie offers unlimited claims up to the purchase price of the device. If Upsie can’t repair your microwave on the first claim, they will even replace the appliance for you.