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Best Microwaves for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: May 20th, 2024

🏆Whether you're just heating up last night's leftovers, defrosting something for dinner, or making a quick snack, a reliable microwave can make your kitchen life a lot easier. We've dug into the latest models, sifting through heaps of data to find out which ones stand out.

Our top picks for 2024 cover a range of needs and preferences, so you're bound to find something that fits your kitchen and cooking style.

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Overall Best: Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior Black Color 1100W

The Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave earns our 'Overall Best' title for 2024 due to its exceptional balance of performance, features, and affordability. With a 1.2 cubic feet capacity and 1100 watts of power, it's well-suited for various cooking tasks, from popping popcorn to defrosting meals. The standout feature is its sensor cooking, which adjusts the heat and time to ensure evenly cooked food every time. Additionally, its sleek stainless steel design complements any kitchen décor, and the door handle offers easy access without the hassle of buttons.

Key Features:

Capacity: 1.2 cubic feet
Power: 1100 watts
Notable Features: Sensor cooking, 6 pre-programmed settings, compact design
Price: $130 from the manufacturer

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$125.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Microwave? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How long does the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS typically last?

The **Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven** tends to be known for its solid build and features like a black stainless steel finish that helps resist fingerprints. It's also got some cool features according to the manufacturer, like a Smart Humidity Sensor and an ECO Mode, which are handy. But when it comes to how long it lasts, it kind of depends on the user. Our research shows mixed experiences. Some folks mentioned their unit had issues after about two and a half years—like still running even when the timer was off. Others have found it to be reliable and well-built, especially compared to other brands they've tried. It sounds like, on average, you might expect it to last a few years, with some people choosing to replace it around that time. If you're looking for peace of mind, maybe consider getting a protection plan.

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Does the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS have a sensor cooking feature?

Yep, the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Microwave does have a sensor cooking feature. This means it can automatically tweak the cooking time and power by checking the humidity levels in your food. Pretty handy, right? The manufacturer mentions that this is great for things like heating drinks, melting chocolate, or cooking veggies. From what we found, a lot of folks find this feature super convenient and reliable. So, if you like the idea of your microwave doing some of the guesswork for you, this one's a good pick.

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How well does the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS defrost frozen food?

The Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave does a solid job with defrosting frozen food. The manufacturer's product description mentions that it has a smart humidity sensor, which automatically adjusts cooking times and power levels to ensure even defrosting. So, you don't have to keep an eye on it or fuss with manual settings too much. Our research shows it comes with pre-programmed settings specifically for defrosting common foods, which makes things easier. Folks who've used it often mention that it efficiently defrosts a variety of frozen items, like meats and veggies. The sensor accurately detects moisture levels, adjusting as needed to prevent uneven thawing or partial cooking. Professional reviews echo these sentiments too. They highlight the microwave's defrosting capabilities and say the sensor technology is both convenient and reliable. So, when you hit the defrost button on this microwave, it works to ensure your food thaws evenly. In a nutshell, the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS is pretty reliable for defrosting tasks. Whether it's meat for dinner or veggies for a quick stir-fry, you can count on it to get the job done efficiently with minimal effort on your part.

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Runner-up: Panasonic Genius Sensor Inverter NN-SN67HS

Our runner-up for 2024 is the Panasonic Genius Sensor Inverter NN-SN67HS. This midsized microwave impresses with its remarkable heating uniformity, thanks to the unique inverter technology that delivers consistent power for precise cooking. With a 1.2 cubic feet capacity and 1200 watts of power, it’s built to handle all your microwave needs, although it lacks quick-start express settings. However, the precision sensor technology, which adjusts cooking and defrosting times for perfect results, more than makes up for this minor shortcoming.

Key Features:

Capacity: 1.2 cubic feet
Power: 1200 watts
Notable Features: Sensor cooking, inverter technology, precise temperature control
Price: $155 from the manufacturer

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$154.99 at Target

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Budget Pick: Magic Chef 1.1 Microwave

Magic Chef Countertop Microwave Oven, Standard Microwave for Kitchen Spaces, 1,000 Watts, 1.1 Cubic Feet, Black

If you're looking for a capable yet affordable microwave, the Magic Chef 1.1 Microwave is your best bet for 2024. Despite its budget-friendly price, this microwave doesn’t skimp on reliability and functionality. It features a 1.1 cubic feet capacity and operates at 1000 watts, handling basic tasks like reheating and cooking frozen meals efficiently. While it lacks advanced sensor technology, it makes up for it with a user-friendly interface and multiple preset cooking modes, delivering great value for the price.

Key Features:

Capacity: 1.1 cubic feet
Power: 1000 watts
Notable Features: User-friendly design, multiple preset cooking modes
Price: $114 from the manufacturer

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$113.99 at Amazon

Best Compact Microwave: GE JES1072SHSS

For those dealing with limited counter space, the GE JES1072SHSS is our top pick for a compact microwave. Despite its smaller 0.7 cubic feet capacity, it delivers solid performance with 700 watts of power. It’s perfect for quick snacks and simple meals, making it a practical choice for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices. Available in three finishes, it pairs functionality with a sleek, space-saving design.

Key Features:

Capacity: 0.7 cubic feet
Power: 700 watts
Notable Features: Compact design, easy to use, multiple finishes
Price: $112 from the manufacturer

Available at Amazon

View at Amazon

Best Convection Microwave: Samsung MC11K7035CG/AA

SAMSUNG 1.1 Cu Ft PowerGrill Countertop Microwave Oven w/ Power Convection, Ceramic Enamel Interior, Sensor Cook, Slim Fry, 1000 Watt, MC11K7035CG/AA, Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel, Black

The Samsung MC11K7035CG/AA takes the crown for the best convection microwave in 2024. This versatile model marries the convenience of microwave cooking with the capabilities of convection, allowing you to bake, broil, and even air fry. Its 1.1 cubic feet capacity and 1000 watts of power provide ample space for diverse cooking tasks. While the control panel may seem complex initially, its multifunctional design makes it a valuable addition to any modern kitchen, broadening your culinary horizons.

Key Features:

Capacity: 1.1 cubic feet
Power: 1000 watts
Notable Features: Convection cooking, air frying capabilities, sensor cooking
Price: $400 from the manufacturer

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$399.00 at Amazon

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