10 Best Countertop Microwaves

The Toshiba Air Fry Auto Menu Combo 5-IN-1 Countertop Microwave stands out as a versatile kitchen appliance, offering microwave, air fry, broil, bake, and combination functions. This makes it a great space-saver for those who need a multifunctional device. With a 26-liter capacity, it can handle larger dishes like a 4lb chicken or a 10-inch pizza, making it suitable for family use.

The microwave operates at 900 watts, which is sufficient for most microwave tasks, though slightly less powerful than some other options on the market. However, the addition of convection and grill functions, with outputs up to 2100W and 1000W respectively, ensures faster and more even cooking, especially with the combination modes that can crisp and brown foods while keeping them tender inside. The 10 auto cooking presets and 9 air fry menus add convenience, taking the guesswork out of cooking various dishes. The black stainless steel design is sleek and modern, fitting well into most kitchen aesthetics.

On the downside, its larger size requires ample counter space, and at nearly 19 kg, it is quite heavy, making it less portable. Additionally, while the control panel offers numerous features, it might be a bit overwhelming for users who prefer simpler interfaces. It also includes a child safety lock, which is a valuable feature for families with young children. This microwave is ideal for those who want a countertop appliance with a wide range of cooking options and are willing to trade some counter space for versatility.

The Russell Hobbs RHM2076B is a stylish countertop microwave with a modern black finish and mirror door, fitting comfortably in most kitchens. It offers a 20-litre capacity, which is sufficient for most household needs, easily accommodating a standard dinner plate. With an 800-watt power output, it provides quick cooking times, though it's not the most powerful option available. This model comes equipped with a variety of functional features, including 5 power levels and 8 auto-cook menus, making it convenient for tasks like defrosting and cooking popular items such as pizza and popcorn at the press of a button.

The microwave's interior is designed for ease of cleaning, featuring a wipeable surface and a removable glass turntable that can be placed in the dishwasher. Its control panel is digital, allowing for programmable settings and one-touch buttons, simplifying operation for the user. Safety is also considered, with a child safety lock to prevent unintended use.

While the RHM2076B excels in features and ease of use, its 800-watt power might fall short for those seeking faster cooking times found in higher wattage models. Additionally, the mirrored finish, while visually appealing, can be prone to fingerprint marks, requiring frequent cleaning to maintain its sleek appearance. This microwave is a sound choice for residential use, particularly for users who value convenience and ease of maintenance over power. Its affordable price point and positive customer reviews make it a competitive option in the solo microwave category.

The Toshiba 800w 23L Microwave Oven is a compact and efficient choice for a countertop microwave. Its 23-liter capacity is suitable for small to medium-sized families, offering enough space to heat or cook various dishes. The 800-watt power is decent for everyday use, making it effective for reheating, defrosting, and cooking most foods, though it may take slightly longer for larger meals compared to higher wattage models.

This microwave features 6 pre-programmed auto cook settings, which simplify the cooking process for common dishes, and the one-touch express cook option adds convenience for quick heating needs. The digital control panel is user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy to operate even for those who are not tech-savvy. The inclusion of a child safety lock is an excellent feature for families with young children, ensuring that the microwave cannot be operated accidentally.

Additionally, the auto defrost function by weight/time is very handy for planning meals. One minor downside is the turntable design. While it helps in even cooking, it might limit the size of the dishes you can use. The microwave operates quietly, which is a thoughtful touch for households with young children or those who value a quieter kitchen environment. The stainless steel finish not only looks sleek but is also easy to clean, maintaining a neat appearance. The Toshiba 800w 23L Microwave Oven is a reliable and practical option with useful features that cater well to the needs of a busy household, though it may not be the fastest option for larger meals.