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Best A Rated Microwave
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The microwave is an indispensable appliance in the modern kitchen, a true workhorse for everything from reheating leftovers to preparing quick meals. However, with countless models available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming.

A poor choice can lead to uneven heating, short lifespans, and frustration, making it essential to prioritize quality and safety. Navigating the crowded market to find the best a rated microwave requires careful consideration of performance, reliability, and overall value for money.

This comprehensive guide is designed to simplify your search, providing the insights you need to make a confident and informed decision. We'll help you understand the key features that distinguish an average appliance from the best a rated microwave that will serve your household for years to come.

Top 10 Best A Rated Microwave Compared

Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor

🏆 BEST OVERALL Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor

  • Very large 2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity fits large dishes and family meals.
  • High 1200W power allows for quick cooking and reheating.
  • Humidity sensor helps prevent overcooking and ensures even heating.
  • Includes multiple convenient auto-cook and specialized defrost programs.
★★★★
4.4/5 Check Price on Amazon
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft

🥈 2ND RUNNER UP TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft

  • Smart Sensor technology helps prevent over or undercooking.
  • Mute function allows for silent operation.
  • 1000 watts of power provides quick and even heating.
  • One-touch start and multiple presets add convenience.
★★★★
4.4/5 Check Price on Amazon
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

� BEST VALUE Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

  • Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, apartments, or dorms.
  • User-friendly features like a mute button, child lock, and +30 sec control.
  • Multiple presets and 10 power levels offer good cooking versatility.
  • Easy to clean with a wipeable surface and dishwasher-safe turntable.
★★★★
4.6/5 Check Price on Amazon
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door

BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door

  • Compact footprint is ideal for small spaces like apartments or offices.
  • Easy-to-read control panel with a large LED display and one-touch buttons.
  • Includes convenient pre-programmed settings for common food items.
  • Features a child safety lock for households with young children.
★★★★
4.7/5 Check Price on Amazon
TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable

TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable

  • Large 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is suitable for families and larger dishes.
  • Sensor cooking menus simplify heating for common foods.
  • Position-memory turntable returns to its starting point for easier access.
  • Convenient sound On/Off function allows you to mute the buzzer.
★★★★
4.8/5 Check Price on Amazon
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6" Carousel Turntable
  • Compact footprint is ideal for smaller kitchens or apartments.
  • User-friendly one-touch cooking functions for quick operation.
  • Modern design with stainless steel finish and LED lighting.
  • Multiple power levels provide good cooking versatility.
★★★★
4.5/5 Check Price on Amazon
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 12.4SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 12.4" Carousel Turntable
  • Good balance of size (1.1 cu. ft.) and power (1000 watts) for everyday needs.
  • User-friendly shortcuts like '+30 seconds' and 'Express Cook' streamline operation.
  • Modern design with a gray interior and bright LED lighting improves visibility.
  • Large 12.4-inch turntable helps ensure food is cooked evenly.
★★★★
4.3/5 Check Price on Amazon
Farberware FMWO11AHTBKB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Stee

Farberware FMWO11AHTBKB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Stee

  • Powerful 1000-watt output ensures fast and even cooking.
  • Compact 1.1 cu. ft. size is perfect for small kitchens or offices.
  • Convenient one-touch presets and express cook options for quick use.
  • Versatile defrost settings by either weight or time.
★★★★
4.8/5 Check Price on Amazon
COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off

COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off

  • Mute function allows for silent operation.
  • Convenient one-touch express cook and auto-cook presets.
  • Energy-saving Eco mode helps reduce standby power.
  • Includes a child safety lock for security.
★★★★
4.6/5 Check Price on Amazon
GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven

GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven

  • Combines multiple cooking functions: microwave, air fry, convection, and broil.
  • Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
  • Preset controls simplify cooking for common food items.
  • Includes a helpful child safety lock for households with children.
★★★★
4.4/5 Check Price on Amazon

Detailed Reviews of the Best A Rated Microwave

Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor - Very large 2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity fits large dishes and family meals.

Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor

This 2.2 Cu. Ft. countertop microwave offers a substantial capacity, making it a suitable choice for larger households.

With 1200W of power, it handles cooking and reheating tasks efficiently. A key feature is the built-in humidity sensor, which is designed to automatically adjust cooking time for more even results across its six preset menus for items like beverages and chicken. The dedicated auto-defrost function for meat, poultry, and fish is also a practical addition that aims for a more natural thaw.

Beyond the core functions, it includes several user-friendly options such as an energy-saving eco mode, a child safety lock, and the ability to turn the operational sounds on or off. The memory function and multi-stage cooking provide added flexibility for more complex meal preparations. Its primary appeal lies in its combination of size, power, and automated features for handling family-sized meals.

Pros

  • Very large 2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity fits large dishes and family meals.
  • High 1200W power allows for quick cooking and reheating.
  • Humidity sensor helps prevent overcooking and ensures even heating.
  • Includes multiple convenient auto-cook and specialized defrost programs.
  • Useful quality-of-life features like a sound on/off option and a child lock.

Cons

  • The large size requires a considerable amount of counter space.
  • With numerous features, there may be a slight learning curve for some users.

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft - Smart Sensor technology helps prevent over or undercooking.

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft

This 1000-watt microwave offers a solid range of features for a countertop model. The standout function is the Smart Sensor, which automatically adjusts cooking time and power by detecting food humidity. This is particularly useful for reheating leftovers without drying them out.

The unit includes several convenient presets for common items like pizza and vegetables, along with a quick-start function for 1-6 minutes at full power. I especially appreciate the mute mode, which silences the often-annoying end-of-cycle beeps—a feature not found on all models. The 12.4-inch turntable is spacious enough for a standard dinner plate.

At 20.6 inches wide, it has a moderate footprint, so it's wise to measure your counter space before purchasing. Overall, it's a capable and user-friendly appliance that performs its core functions reliably, with a few thoughtful additions that enhance the user experience.

Pros

  • Smart Sensor technology helps prevent over or undercooking.
  • Mute function allows for silent operation.
  • 1000 watts of power provides quick and even heating.
  • One-touch start and multiple presets add convenience.
  • Flexible defrost options (by weight or time).

Cons

  • External dimensions may be too large for small kitchens.
  • The 1600-watt input power might be less energy-efficient than some models.

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. - Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, apartments, or dorms.

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

This Chefman microwave serves its purpose well as a compact and functional appliance for basic kitchen needs. At 700 watts, it's not the most powerful unit on the market, so expect slightly longer cooking times compared to larger models, but it handles reheating, defrosting, and cooking smaller items effectively. The digital controls are straightforward, and the array of presets for things like popcorn and pizza are a convenient touch.

I particularly appreciate the thoughtful features like the mute option to silence the beeps and the +30 seconds button for quick time additions. The child safety lock provides peace of mind. Its sleek black design fits well in a modern kitchen without occupying too much counter space.

Cleaning is simple, with a wipeable exterior and a dishwasher-safe glass turntable. Overall, it’s a solid, feature-rich microwave for its size and power class, ideal for smaller households or office use.

Pros

  • Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, apartments, or dorms.
  • User-friendly features like a mute button, child lock, and +30 sec control.
  • Multiple presets and 10 power levels offer good cooking versatility.
  • Easy to clean with a wipeable surface and dishwasher-safe turntable.
  • Memory function allows for quick one-touch access to favorite settings.
  • Modern, unobtrusive design.

Cons

  • The 700W power level may result in longer cooking times for some foods.
  • Its smaller internal capacity might not accommodate larger dinner plates or cookware.

BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door - Compact footprint is ideal for small spaces like apartments or offices.

BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door

This 700-watt microwave is a compact and functional appliance, well-suited for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or office break rooms. Its dimensions (17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”) make it a space-saver without sacrificing essential features. The control panel is straightforward, featuring a large LED digital display and pre-programmed buttons for common items like popcorn, potatoes, and beverages, which is a convenient touch.

The 30-second express cooking function and 10 distinct power levels offer good flexibility for various reheating and cooking tasks. Additional features include a child safety lock for safety, a bright interior light, and a removable 10-inch glass turntable that simplifies cleaning. The push-button door release operates smoothly for easy access.

While 700 watts is on the lower end of the power spectrum, meaning it may take slightly longer to heat food compared to more powerful models, it performs reliably for everyday use. It's a solid, no-frills option for basic microwave needs.

Pros

  • Compact footprint is ideal for small spaces like apartments or offices.
  • Easy-to-read control panel with a large LED display and one-touch buttons.
  • Includes convenient pre-programmed settings for common food items.
  • Features a child safety lock for households with young children.
  • Removable glass turntable makes cleaning straightforward.

Cons

  • Lower wattage (700W) may result in slightly longer cooking times than more powerful models.
  • The small interior capacity is not suitable for large, family-sized dishes.

TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable - Large 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is suitable for families and larger dishes.

TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable

This 1200-watt countertop microwave offers a substantial 1.6 cubic feet of capacity, making it well-suited for family use. The 13.6-inch turntable is large enough for a 13-inch pizza, and the pre-programmed sensor menus are a helpful feature for heating common items like potatoes and vegetables without guesswork. It provides 10 distinct power levels for more precise cooking control.

A few standout features add to its overall convenience. The innovative position-memory turntable, which resets to its original spot, is a thoughtful addition. For those sensitive to noise, the ability to mute the buzzer is a significant plus.

It also includes all the standard functions you would expect, such as auto defrost, a one-touch popcorn button, and a child safety lock. The black stainless-steel finish gives it a modern look that should fit well in most contemporary kitchens, offering a solid blend of size, power, and user-friendly features.

Pros

  • Large 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is suitable for families and larger dishes.
  • Sensor cooking menus simplify heating for common foods.
  • Position-memory turntable returns to its starting point for easier access.
  • Convenient sound On/Off function allows you to mute the buzzer.
  • Powerful 1200-watt output with 10 adjustable power levels.

Cons

  • The large external dimensions (over 21 inches wide) require significant counter space.
  • The keypad is covered by a protective film that must be removed before first use.

Farberware FMWO11AHTBKB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Stee - Powerful 1000-watt output ensures fast and even cooking.

Farberware FMWO11AHTBKB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Stee

This Farberware microwave is a capable and straightforward appliance, well-suited for everyday use. With 1000 watts of power, it heats food quickly and evenly, handling everything from reheating leftovers to cooking simple meals. The 1.1 cubic foot capacity is a good compromise, offering enough space for a standard dinner plate without occupying too much counter space, making it ideal for smaller kitchens, dorms, or office break rooms.

The control panel is intuitive, featuring several handy one-touch presets for items like popcorn and potatoes, as well as express cook and +30-second buttons for rapid operation. The time and weight defrost options are also quite effective. While it may not have advanced features like convection or grilling, it reliably covers all the essential functions.

The interior light is bright, the LED display is easy to read, and the child safety lock is a thoughtful addition for households with young children.

Pros

  • Powerful 1000-watt output ensures fast and even cooking.
  • Compact 1.1 cu. ft. size is perfect for small kitchens or offices.
  • Convenient one-touch presets and express cook options for quick use.
  • Versatile defrost settings by either weight or time.
  • Includes a helpful child safety lock feature.
  • Clear LED display and a bright interior light.

Cons

  • The 1.1 cu. ft. capacity might be too small for larger casserole dishes or family-sized portions.
  • Lacks advanced cooking functions like convection or grilling.

COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off - Mute function allows for silent operation.

COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off

This microwave offers a solid range of features that are genuinely useful for daily tasks. The one-touch express cooking and +30 second buttons are standard but always appreciated for their convenience. The auto-cook presets for items like popcorn and pizza work reasonably well, taking the guesswork out of common uses.

A standout feature is the mute function, which is excellent for late-night use or open-concept living spaces where appliance beeps can be disruptive. The Eco mode is a thoughtful addition for those conscious of energy consumption, and the child lock provides peace of mind in a family household. The unit's 10-inch turntable is suitable for standard dinner plates, making it a good fit for a smaller kitchen, dorm room, or office.

The control panel is clearly laid out and the digital display is bright and easy to read from a distance, enhancing its overall usability.

Pros

  • Mute function allows for silent operation.
  • Convenient one-touch express cook and auto-cook presets.
  • Energy-saving Eco mode helps reduce standby power.
  • Includes a child safety lock for security.
  • Bright, easy-to-read digital display and control panel.

Cons

  • The 10-inch turntable might be too small for larger cookware or serving dishes.
  • Power wattage is not mentioned, which can be a key factor for cooking speed.

GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven - Combines multiple cooking functions: microwave, air fry, convection, and broil.

GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven

This 1.0 cu. ft. microwave offers impressive versatility, packing air fry, convection, and broil functions into a single compact unit.

At 1,050 watts, it handles standard reheating and cooking tasks effectively, while the additional modes provide more advanced capabilities. The convection feature, which uses a rack to circulate air, is useful for achieving even browning, and the air fry mode is a convenient way to get crispy results on foods like fries and nuggets. The preset controls are straightforward and simplify operation for common items.

Its smaller footprint is ideal for apartments, dorms, or office kitchens where space is a premium. The inclusion of a deactivatable two-step child lock is a thoughtful safety measure for families. While it won't replace a full-sized oven, it's a capable machine that combines several appliances into one, saving valuable counter space and adding a lot of cooking flexibility.

Pros

  • Combines multiple cooking functions: microwave, air fry, convection, and broil.
  • Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
  • Preset controls simplify cooking for common food items.
  • Includes a helpful child safety lock for households with children.
  • Sufficient 1,050-watt power ensures even and efficient cooking.
  • Convection rack is included to aid in air circulation.

Cons

  • The 1.0 CU FT capacity may be too small for large dishes or family-sized meals.
  • Mastering all the different functions and their nuances might have a slight learning curve.

Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best A Rated Microwave

Size and Capacity

The internal capacity of a microwave, measured in cubic feet (Cu. Ft.), is a crucial factor. Compact models (0.7 to 1.1 Cu. Ft.) like the Chefman or BLACK+DECKER are perfect for small kitchens, dorms, and offices. Mid-size options (1.1 to 1.6 Cu. Ft.) such as the TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) offer a balance for daily family use, while very large models (2.2 Cu. Ft.) like the Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) are designed to accommodate large casserole dishes and family-sized meals.

Power and Wattage

Wattage determines how quickly and evenly your food cooks. Most standard microwaves range from 1000W to 1200W. Higher wattage, like the 1200W found in the larger Toshiba models, means faster cooking times, which is ideal for busy households. Lower wattage is common in compact models and is sufficient for basic tasks like reheating drinks or cooking popcorn, but may take longer for more substantial meals. A best a rated microwave will balance power with its size.

Smart Sensors and Presets

Advanced features can significantly improve your cooking results. A smart sensor, or humidity sensor, automatically adjusts cooking time and power by detecting the moisture released from food, which helps prevent over or undercooking. Many of the best a rated microwave options, particularly from Toshiba, include this technology. Additionally, look for convenient one-touch presets for common items like pizza, popcorn, and potatoes, which simplify operation.

Convenience and Quality-of-Life Features

Small details can make a big difference in daily use. A sound on/off or mute function is excellent for late-night snacks without waking the household. A child safety lock is essential for families with young children. Other useful features include position-memory turntables that return to their original spot, easy-to-clean surfaces, bright LED interior lights for better visibility, and express cook buttons that add 30 seconds with a single touch.

Specialty and Multi-Function Ovens

If you're looking to save counter space, consider a multi-function appliance. The GE GCST10A1WSS, for example, combines a microwave with an air fryer, convection oven, and broiler. This versatility allows you to do everything from reheating leftovers to baking or crisping foods in a single unit. While more specialized, these models offer incredible value and functionality, making them a top contender for the best a rated microwave for a versatile kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best A Rated Microwave

What is the ideal microwave size for a family?

For most families of three to four people, a mid-size microwave with a capacity of 1.2 to 1.6 cubic feet is an excellent choice. This size provides enough space to fit a standard dinner plate or a medium-sized casserole dish without taking up excessive counter space. Models like the TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) at 1.6 cu. ft. offer a great balance of interior room and powerful features suitable for preparing family meals and reheating larger portions efficiently.

How much wattage do I really need in a microwave?

A microwave with 1000 watts of power is generally sufficient for most household cooking needs, providing quick and even heating for a wide variety of foods. For those who frequently cook large meals or want the fastest possible reheating, a 1200-watt model offers a noticeable boost in performance. Models with lower wattage, often found in compact units, will still cook effectively but may require slightly longer cooking times for certain dishes and frozen meals.

What does a smart sensor do in a microwave?

A smart sensor, also called a humidity sensor, is a feature that

Conclusion: The Final Verdict

The Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor this is a powerful and spacious microwave packed with modern features like a humidity sensor and various auto-programs. it is an excellent option for large families or those who frequently cook large meals, provided you have sufficient counter space for its significant footprint.