Best Countertop Microwave Picks for 2026

Last updated: July 4, 2026

A good countertop microwave should make everyday meals easier, whether you want voice control, a larger cooking space, quiet operation, simple one-touch buttons, or a compact size for a small kitchen. This guide compares smart and convenient microwave options so you can choose the model that fits your space, cooking habits, and budget range.

Important note: Not every microwave in this guide is voice-controlled. The Toshiba smart countertop microwave is the best fit if you specifically want Alexa voice control. The other picks are included for buyers who want practical countertop features such as sensor cooking, mute mode, child lock, compact sizing, or larger capacity.

Top Picks

• Best Voice-Control Pick: TOSHIBA ML-EM34P(SS) Smart Countertop Microwave
• Best Large-Capacity Pick: TOSHIBA ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave
• Best Budget Compact Pick: COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven
• Best Simple 1.1 Cu. Ft. Option: Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts
• Best Compact Toshiba Pick: TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven

How We Selected These Microwaves

We focused on countertop microwaves that solve common kitchen problems: saving space, reheating quickly, reducing button presses, offering quieter operation, or giving you smarter control. We also looked at listed capacity, wattage, cooking presets, sensor features, child lock options, and how each model fits a real buyer use case.

Because prices, ratings, review counts, and availability can change, this guide avoids exact current-price claims. Use the Amazon buttons to check the latest product details before you buy.

Quick Comparison

TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven

The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) is a compact countertop microwave for buyers who want a smaller appliance without dropping too low in power. With its listed 0.9 cu. ft. size and 900 watts of power, it makes sense for apartments, small kitchens, office break rooms, and quick daily reheating.

This is not the voice-control pick in this guide. Its value is more practical: compact sizing, preset menus, a mute function, and a child lock. Pick it if you want a cleaner, quieter countertop microwave that still offers more power than many tiny 0.7 cu. ft. models.

Why You’ll Like It

• Compact size works well for small counters
• 900 watts of listed power for everyday reheating
• Six auto menus help simplify common cooking tasks
• Mute function helps reduce kitchen noise
• Child lock adds a useful safety feature for family homes

Best For

Choose this model if you want a compact Toshiba microwave for leftovers, popcorn, frozen meals, and simple reheating. It is a good fit when you need more than a basic mini microwave but still want to save counter space.

Keep in Mind

This model is best for compact convenience, not smart-home control. If Alexa voice commands are important to you, choose the TOSHIBA ML-EM34P(SS) instead.

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Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave

The Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) is the large-capacity option in this roundup. Its listed 2.2 cu. ft. interior and 1200 watts of power make it better suited for families, larger plates, and frequent reheating than the smaller compact models.

The main appeal is convenience rather than voice control. You get sensor cooking, auto defrost, auto menus, ECO mode, and a mute option. That combination makes it a strong pick if you want a roomy countertop microwave that can handle bigger dishes without making the controls feel complicated.

Why You’ll Like It

• Large 2.2 cu. ft. listed capacity for bigger dishes
• 1200 watts of listed power for faster heating
• Smart sensor helps reduce guesswork during reheating
• Auto defrost and preset menus add everyday convenience
• Mute option helps keep the kitchen quieter

Best For

Pick this microwave if you cook for more than one person, reheat large portions, or want a bigger turntable area. It is especially useful when compact microwaves feel too limiting.

Keep in Mind

This is a large countertop model, so measure your counter depth and cabinet clearance before ordering. It is also not the right choice if your main goal is Alexa voice control.

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Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts, 1.1 cu ft

The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a straightforward 1.1 cu. ft. option for buyers who want simple controls, solid everyday power, and a familiar countertop design. Its listed 1000 watts of cooking power make it more capable than many tiny microwaves, while the 1.1 cu. ft. size still works for apartments, dorms, and smaller kitchens.

This model is best for buyers who do not need app control or voice commands. It focuses on basics such as one-touch cooking programs, multiple power levels, a child safety lock, and a stainless-steel look.

Why You’ll Like It

• 1.1 cu. ft. listed capacity balances size and usability
• 1000 watts of listed power for everyday meals and leftovers
• One-touch cooking programs keep operation simple
• Child safety lock adds peace of mind in family spaces
• Stainless-steel styling fits many kitchen setups

Best For

Choose this model if you want a simple microwave for reheating, popcorn, frozen meals, and daily use without learning smart-home features.

Keep in Mind

This is not a voice-controlled microwave. It is a better fit for buyers who prefer physical buttons and basic reliability over connected features.

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TOSHIBA ML-EM34P(SS) Smart Countertop Microwave

The TOSHIBA ML-EM34P(SS) is the strongest choice here if you specifically want a smart microwave with voice-control support. It is listed with Alexa compatibility, 1.3 cu. ft. capacity, 1100 watts of power, a built-in humidity sensor, ECO mode, and preset cooking features.

This model makes the most sense if your hands are often full while cooking or you already use Alexa in your kitchen. Voice control can help with simple commands, while the sensor and presets help reduce some of the guesswork in reheating common foods.

Why You’ll Like It

• Voice control with Alexa for hands-free operation
• 1100 watts of listed power for efficient everyday cooking
• 1.3 cu. ft. capacity works for many household meals
• Built-in humidity sensor helps with reheating
• ECO mode and mute function add practical convenience

Best For

Pick this microwave if you want the most connected option in this roundup. It is the best fit for smart-home users, busy kitchens, and anyone who wants hands-free commands for common microwave tasks.

Keep in Mind

Voice-control performance depends on your Wi-Fi, Alexa setup, and the commands supported by the product. If you do not use Alexa, a simpler microwave may offer better value for your needs.

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COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven

The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM is a small 0.7 cu. ft. countertop microwave for light cooking, reheating, dorm rooms, offices, and compact kitchens. Its listed 700 watts of power are best for basic use rather than large meals or heavy cooking.

The standout features are simple one-touch cooking, a sound on/off option, and ECO mode. It is a practical choice when you want a smaller microwave that stays easy to use and does not take over your counter.

Why You’ll Like It

• Compact 0.7 cu. ft. size for small spaces
• One-touch cooking options for quick reheating
• Sound on/off feature for quieter operation
• ECO mode for lower standby energy use
• Simple design for dorms, offices, and light home use

Best For

Choose this model if you mostly heat coffee, snacks, leftovers, or small frozen meals. It is best for buyers who need a compact microwave more than high power or smart features.

Keep in Mind

The smaller size and lower wattage make it less suitable for large dinner plates, family meals, or faster cooking. It is also not a voice-controlled microwave.

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How to Choose the Right Countertop Microwave

Choose Voice Control Only If You Will Use It

Voice control is useful when your hands are full, but it is not essential for everyone. If you only reheat leftovers or make popcorn, a simple microwave with clear buttons may be easier and more affordable.

Match Capacity to Your Dishes

Small 0.7 cu. ft. models work for compact spaces, but larger plates may feel tight. A 1.1 to 1.3 cu. ft. microwave gives you more flexibility, while a 2.2 cu. ft. model is better for family portions and large dishes.

Think About Wattage

A 700W microwave can handle light reheating, but food may take longer. Models around 900W to 1200W usually feel faster for daily meals, frozen foods, and larger portions.

Look for Everyday Convenience Features

Helpful features include mute mode, child lock, sensor reheating, auto defrost, one-touch buttons, ECO mode, and an easy-clean interior. Choose the features you will actually use instead of paying attention to long feature lists.

FAQ

Are all of these microwaves voice-controlled?

No. The TOSHIBA ML-EM34P(SS) is the voice-control pick in this guide because it is listed with Alexa compatibility. The other models are standard countertop microwaves with useful convenience features such as mute mode, auto menus, sensor cooking, child lock, or compact sizing.

What should I consider before buying a smart or voice-controlled microwave?

Check compatibility with your voice assistant, Wi-Fi setup, app requirements, capacity, wattage, counter space, and ventilation needs. Also think about whether voice commands will truly help your cooking routine. If you rarely use smart-home devices, a simple countertop microwave may be a better fit.

Is a 700W microwave powerful enough?

A 700W microwave can work well for small portions, drinks, snacks, and light reheating. It may take longer than a higher-wattage model, so choose 900W or more if you often heat larger meals or want faster cooking.

What size microwave is best for a small kitchen?

For very tight spaces, a 0.7 cu. ft. microwave can save counter space. If you have a little more room, a 0.9 to 1.1 cu. ft. model usually gives you better flexibility without feeling too large.

Should I choose sensor cooking or voice control?

Choose sensor cooking if your main goal is better reheating with less guesswork. Choose voice control if hands-free operation matters most. Some smart microwaves offer both, but many standard models only include practical features such as auto menus and mute mode.

Wrapping Up

The best microwave for you depends on how you cook. If you want hands-free smart-home convenience, the TOSHIBA ML-EM34P(SS) is the strongest fit in this roundup. If you need more space, the Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) is better for larger meals. If you want a compact or simple option, the Farberware, TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS), and COMFEE’ models each solve a different space and budget need.

Before you buy, confirm the current product details on Amazon, measure your counter space, and choose the model that matches your daily reheating habits.