10 Best Countertop Microwaves Of 2026
Countertop Microwaves — Reviews, Recommendations & Updated Buying Guide September 2026
Panasonic 25L Solo Microwave Oven
Why We Love It
Super General 42 Liter Counter-Top Microwave Oven SGMM945DGS
Why We Love It
BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven, 20L
Why We Love It
Midea 20L Solo Microwave Oven with Digital Touch Control
Why We Love It
KROME Microwave Oven, 20L Capacity
Why We Love It
Super General 20 Liter Compact Counter-Top Microwave Oven
Why We Love It
Midea 20 Liters Solo Microwave Oven with 5 Power Levels
Why We Love It
Quick Pick
10 Best Countertop Microwaves Of 2026
Quick Pick
Panasonic 25L Solo Microwave Oven, 900W Power, 5 Power Levels, 10 Auto Programs, Quick 30 Function & Auto Defrost, Compact Countertop Microwave, Large Interior, Black, 1 Year Warranty – NN-ST34NBKPQ
Super General 42 Liter Counter-Top Microwave Oven SGMM945DGS, 1100W Power, 1400W Grill, Digital Control, 55.3 x 46.5 x 32.7 cm(WxDxH), Silver/Black, 1 Year Warranty
BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven, 20L, 700W, 5 Power Levels, Defrost Function, 35-Min Timer, 255mm Glass Turntable for Even Cooking, Easy-Clean Cavity, Stylish Chrome Knobs – Black, MZ2005P-B5
Midea 20L Solo Microwave Oven with Digital Touch Control, 700W, Child Lock, Memory Function, Defrost-by-weight-or-time, Fast Reheat, Push Button Door Opening, Best for Home & Office, Black, EM721BK
KROME Microwave Oven, 20L Capacity, 700W Output, 5 Power Levels, 35 Minute Timer, Cooking End Signal, Grey Painted Cavity, Black Color| KR-MW20MM
Super General 20 Liter Compact Counter-Top Microwave Oven, 700W Power, SGMM-921, Defrost, Quick-Reheat, White, 46.5 x 35 x 29.1 cm, 1 Year Warranty
Midea 20 Liters Solo Microwave Oven with 5 Power Levels, 700W, Defrost Function, Inverter Quattro, XmartWave Technology, Push Button Door Opening, Good for Home & Office, White, MM7P012MZ-WH
Buying Guide: Countertop Microwaves
📋 Table of Contents
1What size microwave do I actually need for my kitchen?
A 20-25L microwave works well for singles or couples and fits most kitchen spaces, while 30L+ models suit families or those who reheat large dishes regularly. Measure your counter space first—these units need at least 5cm clearance on sides and back for proper ventilation.
2What wattage matters, and how much power should I look for?
700-800W is sufficient for basic reheating and defrosting, but 1000W+ cooks faster and more evenly, especially for frozen foods. Higher wattage also means more precise power levels, giving you better control over delicate items like melting chocolate or heating sauces.
3Should I pay extra for a microwave with convection or just stick with standard?
Standard microwaves are fine if you only reheat and defrost, but convection models let you bake and crisp food—worth the extra cost if you want more cooking versatility. Without convection, you're limited to microwaving only.
4What features actually matter versus ones that are just gimmicks?
Look for multiple power levels, a reliable timer, and child lock if you have kids; these make daily use safer and more flexible. Sensor cooking and pre-set menus sound useful but often don't work better than manual settings, so don't overpay for them.
5How do I know if a microwave will last or if I'm wasting money on a cheap one?
Mid-range established brands typically last 7-10 years with normal use, while budget models may fail sooner due to cheaper components. Avoid the very cheapest options, but you don't need premium brands either—focus on models with good reviews and proper warranties instead.
How we choose
Our editors are people who genuinely love testing and writing about products. We compare each product's real-world usability and strengths, then distill what matters most into our own "Why We Love It" points — so you get an honest, at-a-glance sense of what counts before you buy.