Finding the perfect microwave can change your daily life. You might be reheating leftovers quickly, defrosting meals for dinner, or trying a new popcorn recipe.
With so many options, picking the right one feels overwhelming. Wattage power, interior size, special features - they all matter.
We've spent weeks testing the top microwaves on sale. Some impressed us, others disappointed. Real-world use reveals the truth.
This guide cuts through the marketing hype. We'll show you which products actually deliver and which to skip.
| Product Image | Product Name | Best For | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven | (No Pros Available) | PRICES |
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Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven | (No Pros Available) | PRICES |
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BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven | (No Pros Available) | PRICES |
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Toshiba EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave | (No Pros Available) | PRICES |
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BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven | (No Pros Available) | PRICES |
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is a compact, 0.7 cubic foot microwave oven designed for small kitchens and quick reheating tasks. It features a modern digital interface and a sleek stainless steel finish. This model is frequently found on sale, making it an attractive budget option.
Pros
- ✓ Simple digital controls with one-touch buttons for common times
- ✓ Effective child safety lock feature for peace of mind
- ✓ Compact size fits well in dorms, offices, or small kitchen spaces
Cons
- ✗ At 700W, heating power is lower than many standard models
- ✗ The interior capacity is somewhat limited for larger dishes
My Honest Opinion
This is a solid, no-frills microwave that gets the basic jobs done reliably. It's an excellent value when purchased on sale, though power users might find it underpowered. I recommend it for individuals or couples with modest cooking needs.
For its price point, especially on sale, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 delivers dependable performance. The digital panel is intuitive, with dedicated buttons for quick one-minute or 30-second increments, which is perfect for reheating a cup of coffee or a plate of leftovers. The push-button door feels sturdy, and the interior turntable ensures even cooking, although the 0.7 cu.ft capacity means you must be strategic with plate sizes. The stainless steel exterior is easy to wipe clean and looks more premium than its cost suggests.
The 700-watt power is the main compromise. It adequately reheats food and pops popcorn, but it takes noticeably longer than a 1000+ watt unit, and defrosting requires more planning. The child lock is a valuable addition for families. Overall, this microwave excels as a secondary appliance or a primary one for those with simple needs, offering core functionality without any confusing extras. If you find it at a discounted price, it represents a very smart purchase.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven
The Chefman Countertop Microwave is a compact and feature-rich appliance designed for small kitchens or as a secondary unit. It offers a surprising number of modern functions despite its small 0.7 cubic foot size. This model aims to deliver convenience and efficiency in a sleek black design.
Pros
- ✓ Excellent space-saving design perfect for apartments, dorms, or RVs
- ✓ Multiple convenient features like one-touch express cook and a mute button
- ✓ Energy-saving Eco Mode and essential child safety lock
Cons
- ✗ At 700 watts, heating larger or denser items can be slower
- ✗ The interior capacity is quite small, limiting the size of dishes
My Honest Opinion
This is a solid, value-oriented microwave for anyone with limited counter space who still wants smart features. It performs well for basic reheating and simple cooking tasks. I would recommend it primarily for individuals or couples, not large families.
For its compact footprint, the Chefman microwave packs a useful punch. The 10 power levels provide good control for defrosting and gentle heating, while the six cooking presets for items like popcorn, potatoes, and beverages work reliably and eliminate guesswork. The build quality feels sturdy for the price, and the black exterior is easy to keep clean. The inclusion of a child safety lock and a dedicated mute button are thoughtful touches that enhance daily usability.
However, the primary limitations are directly tied to its compact nature. The 700-watt power is adequate but not powerful, meaning a full bowl of soup or a dense frozen meal will take noticeably longer than with a 1000+ watt model. The 0.7 cu. ft. cavity is its biggest constraint; it cannot accommodate a standard large dinner plate or oversized cookware. If your needs are for reheating mugs of coffee, cooking a single baked potato, or making a bag of popcorn, this microwave excels. For larger family-style meals or bigger dishes, you will need to look at a model with a larger capacity.
BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
The BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven is a versatile countertop appliance designed to replace several kitchen gadgets. It combines microwave, convection, and air frying functions into one compact unit. This model aims to be a space-saving solution for multifunctional cooking.
Pros
- ✓ Excellent versatility with five distinct cooking modes
- ✓ Effective air fryer function produces crispy results
- ✓ Compact footprint fits well in small kitchens
My Honest Opinion
This is a genuinely impressive and capable appliance for its size and price point. While it has some limitations, the overall value and performance are strong. It's an ideal choice for singles, couples, or small families looking to maximize functionality without sacrificing counter space.
This BLACK+DECKER unit truly shines in its ability to perform multiple roles competently. The air fry function is surprisingly effective, delivering crispy french fries and chicken wings that rival a dedicated air fryer. The convection bake and roast modes work well for small batches, like roasting vegetables or baking a few cookies. The microwave function itself is powerful and consistent at 900 watts, heating liquids and leftovers quickly and evenly. The stainless steel finish looks modern and is easy to wipe clean.
However, the compact size is a double-edged sword. The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity is sufficient for a dinner plate or a small air fryer basket, but it can feel cramped for larger items or cooking for more than two people. Learning the control panel and the specific settings for each mode requires a glance at the manual, as the icons and multi-step programming aren't immediately intuitive. Once mastered, though, it becomes a quick and efficient process. The inclusion of a child lock is a thoughtful safety feature for households with young children.
Toshiba EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave
The Toshiba EM131A5C-SS is a compact, feature-rich countertop microwave oven designed for modern kitchens. It aims to simplify cooking with smart sensors and automated programs while maintaining a sleek, space-saving design.
Pros
- ✓ Smart humidity sensor for automatic cooking times
- ✓ Easy-clean interior and removable 12.4-inch turntable
- ✓ Multiple convenient functions like mute and ECO mode
My Honest Opinion
This is a reliable and intelligent microwave that excels at everyday reheating and simple cooking tasks. While not the largest capacity, its smart features and ease of cleaning make it a great value, especially when on sale.
The Toshiba EM131A5C-SS microwave stands out for its user-friendly smart features. The humidity sensor is remarkably effective for reheating leftovers like pasta or vegetables, preventing them from drying out without requiring guesswork on time and power. The 12 auto menus provide one-touch solutions for common items like popcorn, potatoes, and beverages, which is perfect for quick meals. The mute function is also a thoughtful addition for open-concept living spaces.
Build quality feels solid, and the silver finish is attractive and easy to match. The ECO mode, which reduces standby power consumption, is a nice touch for the energy-conscious. Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the smooth interior and the fact that the large turntable is removable for washing. For a household of one or two people, the 1.2 cu ft capacity is generally sufficient, though fitting a large dinner plate can sometimes be a tight squeeze.
BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven
The BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 is a compact, 1000-watt digital microwave oven designed for small kitchens and quick cooking tasks. It offers a modern look with a black and stainless steel finish and includes several user-friendly features. This model aims to provide reliable performance at an affordable price point.
Pros
- ✓ Powerful 1000W cooking with even heating from the turntable
- ✓ Simple digital controls and a convenient push-button door
- ✓ Useful child safety lock for household peace of mind
Cons
- ✗ Interior capacity is somewhat limited for larger dishes
- ✗ Exterior finish shows fingerprints and smudges easily
My Honest Opinion
This is a solid, no-frills microwave that excels at basic reheating and defrosting. It's a great value for the price, especially for singles, couples, or small office spaces. I wouldn't recommend it for a large family that needs to heat big plates regularly.
For its compact footprint, this BLACK+DECKER microwave delivers consistent and fast cooking performance. The 1000 watts of power are more than sufficient for most everyday tasks like warming beverages, popping popcorn, or reheating leftovers, and the inclusion of a turntable helps prevent cold spots. The digital interface is intuitive, with a clear display and responsive buttons, making it easy to set precise cook times. The push-button door release is a nice, quiet upgrade from a manual latch and feels sturdy in daily use.
However, the 1.1 cubic foot interior is its main limitation. While fine for standard mugs and bowls, fitting a large dinner plate can be a tight squeeze and may not allow the turntable to rotate freely. The stylish black and stainless steel exterior does require frequent wiping to maintain its clean appearance. Despite these minor drawbacks, it remains a highly functional and reliable appliance that performs its core duties very well without unnecessary complexity.
Buyer's Guide: 3 Key Factors to Consider
Factor 1
Size and Power: Match the microwave's interior capacity (in cubic feet) and wattage to your household size and typical cooking tasks. Higher wattage heats faster.
Factor 2
Special Features: Look for useful functions like sensor cooking, convection baking, or even air frying for versatility beyond just reheating.
Factor 3
Ease of Use: Consider control panels (digital vs. dial), cleaning ease (like removable turntables), and noise level for daily convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size microwave is best for a small kitchen?
A compact 0.7 to 0.9 cubic foot model is ideal for saving counter space while still fitting most dinner plates.
Is a more expensive microwave with an air fryer worth it?
If you want to replace a separate appliance and save space, a combo unit like the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 is a great value.
What does a "sensor cook" feature do?
It automatically detects humidity from food and adjusts cooking time and power, preventing overcooked or undercooked meals.
Are all microwaves on sale reliable?
Major brands like BLACK+DECKER, Toshiba, and Chefman offer reliable models on sale, especially during holiday or clearance events.
How important is wattage?
Very important. 700-900W is good for basics, but 1000W+ is faster for cooking and reheating larger portions evenly.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
After testing all these microwaves, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS takes the crown. Its smart sensor, large capacity, and powerful 1000W performance make it the most capable all-around countertop oven.
Shoppers wanting maximum versatility on a budget should consider the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 with Air Fry. Your perfect choice depends on your priorities of space, cooking style, and desired features.