In all honesty, most countertop microwaves are basically the same. The majority of them are just variations of the same cheap-but-decent machine, built by the same manufacturer (Midea) in the same factory with the same core components. You can’t count on any to last for more than a handful of years before a crucial part breaks and it becomes unusable. We are giving you three, of what we think, are the best in the market from a price, reliability and multi-use perspective.
Toshiba EM131A5C
The Toshiba EM131A5C stands out a little from this mass of low-cost clones simply because it looks nicer and has a few useful features that you don’t usually get at this price.
With its stainless steel exterior and compact footprint, it seamlessly blends into any kitchen decor, adding a touch of modern elegance.
But what really impressed me was its performance. This microwave packs a punch with its 1100 watts of power, ensuring quick and efficient cooking every time. Whether I was defrosting frozen veggies, reheating leftovers, or popping a bag of popcorn, the Toshiba EM131A5C delivered consistent results with minimal fuss.
Another standout feature is its intuitive control panel. With easy-to-read buttons and a bright digital
display, navigating through the various cooking options was a breeze. Plus, the pre-programmed settings for popular dishes like pizza, potatoes, and beverages took the guesswork out of cooking, saving me time and effort. Microwaves are hard to be stand out products but, at this price and for the quality of reliability of the product this is our top pick.
Panasonic Oven with Cyclonic Wave Inverter Technology
In a market flooded with multi-functional microwaves boasting various cooking capabilities, our top pick stands out for its exceptional microwave performance. The Panasonic model we tested proved itself by excelling where it matters most: microwaving.
This powerhouse was among the top contenders, boiling water in just 2 minutes and flawlessly thawing and cooking frozen mac and cheese to perfection. Credit goes to Panasonic's innovative "Cyclonic Wave Inverter" technology, ensuring a consistent flow of power throughout the interior space for even cooking results.
With a plethora of cooking options, including presets for popcorn bags, beverages, and 20 specific food items tailored to your needs, this 2.2-cubic-foot model offers versatility like no other. It's spacious enough to accommodate large dishes, making it ideal for family meals or entertaining guests.
However, its size comes at a cost—both in terms of counter space and price. If you're mainly heating smaller items, this Panasonic model might be more than you need. In our tests, it proved a bit too powerful for delicate treats like mini-marshmallows, and chocolate chips didn't melt evenly even at lower power settings. Nevertheless, for those seeking a high-volume cooking solution, this full-featured powerhouse is the perfect fit.
Galanz 4-in-1 ToastWave
Indeed, the price tag on this microwave is undeniably steep. However, it's important to note that this appliance is not just your average microwave—it's a versatile powerhouse equipped with the functionalities of an air fryer, toaster oven, and convection oven all in one.
The ToastWave's unique combination of a traditional electric heating element, microwave generator, and fan allows for separate control over each component, offering a diverse range of cooking options. While the microwave features sensor cook and reheat modes, as well as popcorn and defrost settings, the oven side is capable of baking, broiling, toasting, and air frying (though the latter requires the use of the included ventilated basket, which reduces capacity).
In terms of microwave performance, the ToastWave performed adequately in our testing. While the marshmallow test revealed some noticeable hot spots, and the machine fell short of boiling water by 30 degrees, it excelled in thoroughly heating macaroni and cheese servings and producing perfectly popped popcorn.
While it's true that investing in the ToastWave represents a significant financial commitment, its ability to potentially replace multiple countertop appliances simultaneously makes it a compelling option for those seeking versatility and efficiency in their kitchen setup.
How We Tested
Performance: We assess heating consistency, speed, and cooking versatility to ensure reliable results across various tasks.
Features: From preset modes to convection capabilities, we evaluate the effectiveness and breadth of the microwave's functionalities.
Design: We analyze construction materials, ergonomic design, and user-friendly controls to ensure durability and ease of use.
Size: Considering dimensions and capacity, we determine suitability for different kitchen setups and cooking needs.
Value: Balancing price with features and durability, we assess the overall value proposition of each microwave.
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