The Most Efficient Microwave: Top Picks & Buying Guides 2024

Katie Finn By, Katie Finn
Updated
Most Efficient Microwave
Most Efficient Microwave

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Ninja SP101 Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven

With this product, you can choose your toast cooking time. Toasts and bagels are cooked as you like, using the toast depth selector to get them just right. It also includes a removable crumb tray and an easy-to-use rear panel for thorough cleaning. Read Review

2. Best For Prcie: TOSHIBA EM925A5A-BS Countertop Microwave Oven

This microwave will suit different kitchen styles with a (black) stainless steel finish and a timeless look. Its practical functions meet your heating and cooking needs. Thoughtful features such as an easy-to-read control panel, shock bars, and child lock further enhance the user experience. Read Review

3. Best Design: Farberware Professional FMO12AHTBKE Microwave Oven

You will like this Farberware countertop microwave cause it enhances the traditional stainless steel look with an elegant premium stainless steel and black body wrap design. Read Review

4. Best Quality: Farberware Compact Countertop Microwave Oven

The 700-watt black microwave is ideal for an office lounge or small kitchen. With 6 ONE-Touch cooking programs, you can optimally prepare six of your most popular dishes at the touch of a button. Read Review

A microwave is a must-have in most kitchens, whether you're using it to reheat leftovers or cook your favorite meals. Many microwaves also feature a convection cooking setting, which uses a fan to circulate air and maintain oven temperature for faster, more efficient cooking. If you have a kitchenette, apartment, or dorm, this combo unit won't take up much space but will give you extra cooking options.

Whether you're using the microwave for simple reheating and the occasional ready-to-eat meal or want to try cooking full meals and defrosting them quickly, there are some impressive microwaves to choose from that aren't too expensive. Some of the best microwaves can't do that much, but what they can do, they do it well.

After extensive study and analysis over a 17 hours, We think the Most Efficient Microwave is the Ninja SP101 Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven. You can consider TOSHIBA EM925A5A-BS Countertop Microwave Oven as an alternative if you're still undecided. Other suggestions on this list are worth considering, and we've put up a helpful shopping guide to help you decide!

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Ninja SP101 Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven
Our Score:
9.9
Ninja

The Ninja Foodi Digital Air Fry Oven packs many functions and cooking capabilities into a small space. Air fry, air grill, bake, bagel, toast, dehydrate and keep warm - all in one appliance - when you're done cooking, flip the oven up and down to clean and maintain the work surface available.

Moreover, this product cooks 60% faster than conventional ovens with Air Roast, preheats in 60 seconds, and completes meals in just 20 minutes. It can take up 50% less space when folded up and away from your kitchen splashback.

TOP Choice #2 TOSHIBA EM925A5A-BS Countertop Microwave Oven
Our Score:
9.8
Toshiba

This microwave has a larger capacity but is more compact than previous models. The compact size is perfect for eat-in kitchens, vacation homes, offices, and dorms, yet it still provides plenty of space for sharing meals.

In addition, it is equipped with LED interior lighting - an energy-efficient and durable solution - this Toshiba microwave provides a crystal clear interior view while cooking so you can keep an eye on your dishes. You don't have to worry about waking up your family using the microwave. You can quickly turn off the end-of-cook alarm and beep with the push of a button, then turn it back on at any time.

TOP Choice #3 Farberware Professional FMO12AHTBKE Microwave Oven
Our Score:
9.7
Farberware

Farberware countertop microwaves have seven one-touch cooking programs, including three pre-programmed auto defrost settings, four pre-programmed thaw cooking options, and three pre-programmed softening cooking options to complete any cooking task quickly.

Besides, this countertop microwave with 1100 watts, ten power levels, and multi-level cooking allows you to customize your cooking experience for every meal. The multi-stage cooking function adjusts the cooking level during the cycle for the perfect finish. With six one-touch cooking programs, you can heat everyday items in seconds.

This top-mounted microwave can choose from 10 power levels (up to 700 watts). The large digital screen has a clock function that displays a countdown in addition to the remaining cooking time.

Furthermore, the memory function allows you to customize and save your favorite cooking settings for added one-touch convenience. Use the large, easy-to-grip door to open or close the microwave quickly, and the child lock feature provides extra security. The black exterior looks great in any cooking area. 

5 Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
Our Score:
9.5
Panasonic

This is the ultimate all-in-one multifunction oven: a countertop microwave, broiler, air fryer, and convection oven all in one! You can use each function individually or combine them for a delicious treat each time.

Additionally, for baking and roasting, you can use the convection bake function up to 425°F, with or without preheating. FlashXpress Broiler is excellent for baking, browning, and crisping. It can also rapidly circulate hot air around food for a crisp, browned result without preheating. 

6 COMFEE' CM-M093ARD Retro Microwave
Our Score:
9.4
COMFEE'

This 0.9 cubic foot COMFEE microwave is inspired by the good old days with modern style and practical features. It has nine automated menus; an easy defrost function, ten power levels for microwave cooking, and a quick cook button. Now you can cook a complete meal in a microwave!

This microwave is compact but can easily accommodate the most common dishes like a 10-inch pizza. Quick cooking option, cook on full power for 30 seconds, press the START button, and the Comfee Microwave will do the rest. 

The large-capacity countertop convection microwave with foot air fryer lets you prepare healthier, crispier meals of your favorites in less time, thanks to the built-in air fryer. Use preset microwave controls, such as fries and chicken nuggets, to make operation quick and easy while ensuring precise cooking results.

Moreover, the microwave comes with a stainless steel microwave pot designed for use in air fryer mode. This 1050-watt compact microwave also features a convection mode with a unique rack that circulates air around the food to distribute the heat evenly for a golden-brown finish.

More To Consider

9 Midea Equipment 1025F0A  Microwave Oven
Our Score:
8.9
Midea Equipment

What to Look For in a most efficient microwave?

Actually, when you decide to invest in most efficient microwave for yourself, lots of things to consider! It's harder to choose since the product comes with many types, functions, and features from different manufacturers. That’s why you should find a reliable space to acquire knowledge related to the item. 

We’ve highlighted the essential features of the most efficient microwave below. Along with checking out the list of best models in the list, you should also carefully read the buying guide here:

Capacity

The cubic foot measurement of microwave power is used to measure the capacity. A microwave is larger if it has more cubic footage. Microwaves can range from 0.5 to 2 cubic foot in size, with the most powerful models reaching up to 3 cubic feet. Microwaves typically range from 1- to 2-cubic feet.

You may find it difficult to decide if the microwave you need will work for your specific needs. You should also consider the dimensions of the interior as well as the turntable. The right size microwave will be chosen by ensuring that your microwave door opens are large enough to accommodate the bulk of your microwave items.

Size

It is important that you choose the right size microwave for your space, whether you are looking for an OTR model or a built-in one. Check that the door can be opened easily. While you have greater flexibility when buying a countertop model door, it is still essential to measure the area of your kitchen.

Cooking Functions

Many microwaves can be used for steaming and grilling. These additional functions are generally more expensive than microwaves without them.

Although the microwave grill function is not as strong as the standard propane grill, it can sear food on the outside to create grilled appearances. The microwave uses the same technology that ovens do: Hot air is circulated through a fan to heat the microwave. This allows for faster and more even cooking. The microwave can brown and crispen food in the same way as a traditional oven.

Power

An appliance's power can be measured in watts. A microwave with more power will cook food more efficiently and evenly. Many microwaves are available with power ratings between 500 and 1000 watts. It all depends on what you intend to do with the appliance.

The majority of people choose a microwave with at least 700 watts. This is because they are more affordable and can make small microwave dishes, such as popcorn or microwave meals. For heavy-duty microwave cooking, you will need a model that can produce around 1000 watts. You can make almost everything with powerful microwaves, such as meatloaves and vegetable dishes.

Preset Cooking Modes

Some models also have preset cooking time controls. These preset cooking options adjust the power level and duration based on what's being cooked.

The settings allow you to quickly and easily cook frozen foods like potato chips, popcorn and potatoes. It's possible to set up settings for melting butter, chocolate, freezing frozen items and even reheating pizza. These features can be used to make your life easier or you might just prefer to manually enter the times.

Style

There are four basic types of microwaves. These can be distinguished by the location and method they are placed. There are three main types of microwaves: built-ins that can be recessed or hung on a wall or in cabinets; microwaves that sit directly on the counter and microwaves that fit into drawers.

FAQs

Are Microwave Ovens Safe Or Dangerous?

Since microwave ovens emit electromagnetic radiation that heats their contents, it is not clear if they are safe. A microwave oven's potential for cancer is the biggest concern.

The evidence does not suggest that microwave cooking is linked to the incidence of cancer. Even so, certain types of plastic packaging can make it possible for harmful carcinogenic compounds to be released when heated in the microwave. Safest practice: Remove food from any plastic packaging prior to cooking. Packaging is more important than the microwave oven.

They are generally safe. However, it is a good idea to use caution.

Should I Buy A Flatbed Or Turntable Microwave?

To get consistent results, flatbed microwaves require that food be manually turned. However, they have more room than regular microwaves and you can use smaller containers and pots. Turntable microwaves are more efficient but take up less space and you cannot use larger containers.

Do I Need Additional Features In A Microwave?

It all depends on how often you use them. Combining a grill, convection oven, and microwave with your stove can provide additional cooking space. You also have the option to use multiple programs, such as grilling or microwaving simultaneously, which will speed up the cooking process.

Integrated Or Freestanding, Which Is Better?

Integrated models, while not necessarily better, are more convenient and easier to install. They also have more capacity. You can use them if your new kitchen has a space for a permanent microwave. If not, consider buying a combi unit that doubles as a second cooker. You can choose from a wide range of sizes and are typically cheaper. It's easy to connect them and they can also be taken with you in case of an emergency. These models make a nice upgrade, especially if you already own all the integrated appliances and only need one.

Can You Microwave Eggs?

Yes. Use cooking spray to spray a microwave-safe container such as an egg cooker or ramekin. Once the spray has dried, pour in one to two eggs. Mix the ingredients together for approximately one minute to 30 seconds. Stir occasionally. Allow the eggs to rest for at least one minute before you serve them.

Do Microwave Ovens Wear Out?

They won't be around forever. While they last quite a while, their efficiency will eventually deteriorate. You may be slow to see the signs of its gradual decline.
A microwave oven's magnetron element, which produces microwaves, eventually wears out. Although microwave ovens can be very convenient and simple to use, their expiration dates are not.
It is best to shop around for a reliable manufacturer so that your microwave oven lasts a long time. Although there is a wide range of microwave ovens available at low prices, they are less likely to be as efficient and have more problems. You may not have to replace your microwave oven for up to 20 years if you buy from the top brands.

After knowing the suitable kinds of most efficient microwave and the features you wish, it’s high time for you to start your shopping. Note that you shouldn’t run out to a particular store or start scrolling through online sales just yet. With the development of technology, especially the expansion of sale sites, you can easily find your buddy. 

Remember to check out our site weekly round-up to ensure that the current sales on most efficient microwave perform well in our tests. So you can catch up with them as soon as possible. Would you please give us your feedback for better service? Many thanks!


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About Katie Finn

Katie Finn

Katie Finn is a freelance writer who loves to explore the world and go camping. She's also an editor for CampfireHQ, where she enjoys writing about wildlife and camping tips. She also has a passion for reading and learning new things, which she often incorporates into her writing.

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