Best Countertop Microwave Oven
We love microwaves for their convenience, flexibility, and low cost. Modern countertop microwaves can do much more than what is leftover from heating, warm frozen foods, and make popcorn. Try frying veggies, such as spaghetti squash and potatoes, crisping bacon, and make some hard-boiled eggs — and you’ll get much better results sooner than on the stove or in the oven. It is therefore not surprising that 96 percent of U.S. households have a microwave and more than a second of those who like countertop microwaves.
Unlike microwaves built into or over a distance, countertop microwaves do not require special installation and can be easily moved. Even if you have a small kitchen with limited space for counting, there are plenty of great options to choose from. Also, they are usually very affordable – most of the countertop microwaves we tested ten years ago were less than $ 300
Over the years, the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Kitchen Appliances and Technology Lab has researched and tested hundreds of microwaves to find the best performing models from the products we trust. Examining the countertop microwave, we look at how well-melted cheese, “baked” potatoes, reheated both mac and cheese casserole and a side dish of meatloaf, remove a pound of frozen beef, and pop popcorn.
We also consider easy use when it comes to control panels, turntable installation, door opening, and closing, and cleaning. Here are our top options for the top countertop microwave you can buy in 2021, including a combination of the ones we tested, tried at home, and recommended based on unique features and high reviews:
Features of a beautiful countertop microwave
There can be many microwave countertop options that can suit your space and style, but here are some important things to look out for:
- Turntables surround your food to ensure it is evenly heated. With the exception of one, you will have to set up a cooking cycle in the middle to turn your plate. Some models go side by side.
- Removable ones are easy to clean. The 30-second extension may seem insignificant, but it does make a big difference – it allows you to get started quickly or add more time without pressing a series of buttons.
- Pre-set tasks are common these days especially for printing (depending on weight or quantity), refreshments, and popcorn. Most do not always get better and they tend to make money, so look for those who have what you need.
- Smart sensors adjust time and energy to your level by automatically measuring the temperature in your food. It takes speculation to find out how hot your food is for how long.
Wattage tells you how powerful the microwave is. If you reheat certain portions of food, remove a small number of vegetables, and make popcorn, a 700 to 900-watt microwave may be enough. Otherwise, you would need at least 1,000 watts of power. Most frozen temperature commands are based on the 1100-watt microwave.
Anything down will just take a long time to heat up. Size (known as cubic feet) – you can’t put an 11-inch lunch plate on your favorite computer screen and if your kitchen is tight in space our top choice for large families might make sense.
Are microwaves safe to use?
If you have been told not to turn on the microwave while cooking, the concern may be due to radiation leaks. You do not have to worry about this, and this is why: The microwave makes a type of electric current called microwaves that move water molecules into food, causing them to burn.
Unlike other types of radiation, such as X-rays, these microwaves do not have the energy to cause damage to cells, but they can burn in the same way as heat. The FDA regulates microwaves, ensuring that radiation does not escape. It is completely closed and the layer of machinery inside the door prevents waves from escaping. Always follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions and you’ll be ready to go!
Samsung Microwave Oven
Two features make this Samsung microwave faster. It has 1250 watts of heat power. One of the highest quality we have tested, and a built-in inverter that helps to heat food faster and more evenly. It loaded with things like 30 fast, the up and down button to adjust cooking times with a 10-second boost. A quick minute timer, a first delay feature, and child safety locks.
We love the last warm feature that runs up to 30 minutes after the end of the cooking cycle – you can add it at the beginning of the cooking cycle! The Sensor Cooking Button has an impressive set of 14 from oatmeal to fish fillets, but grab your owner’s manual because these are the many codes you should keep in mind.
Check: Samsung microwave oven price
Singer Microwave Oven
This Singer microwave has long been one of our favorites since we first tested it ten years ago. With a capacity of 1.6 cubic meters, this microwave has an easy-to-clean control panel and a large interior, making it a great example for large families.
In our experiment, it cooked evenly out of the cold and brought out completely roasted broccoli using its own senses. These smart sensors can change the cooking time after measuring the amount of steam extracted from food. This model has an inverter that helps burn food faster and more evenly.
Check: Singer microwave oven price
Walton Microwave Oven
Often, microwaves mimic low temperatures by turning on and off the electricity over and over again, which can lead to uneven cooking. It takes a long time. Inverters help deliver energy continuously without stopping and moving.
In our experiment, microwaves with inverters did a good job of stirring the food evenly and did well in baking potatoes. But they could not back up beef and regular microwaves. It also has a smart sensor that detects the amount of steam extracted from the food and adjusts both the energy level and the cooking time for a good effect.
Check: Walton microwave oven price
When to change the Microwave Oven?
Most microwaves will come with a one-year warranty, but the National Association of Home Builders says a standard microwave will last about 9 years. Some products offer extended warranties for longer periods, but we do not recommend them as any repairs may cost less than the warranty itself. In fact, extended warranties can cost almost entirely a new microwave!
Any minor damage, such as a broken door handle or cracked turntable can be repaired easily and is less expensive. It usually costs more to buy a new microwave than to call a service visit, unless you have a built-in model. This is because even if the other part is cheaper, the cost of the service provider can add to the cost of a new microwave.