We made popcorn, mac and cheese, and more to test all kinds of microwaves
What to Look for in a Microwave
Style
There are four main styles of microwaves, and they’re distinguished by where and how they’re installed. There are microwaves designed to sit on the countertop, those installed over the range (OTR), built-ins that are recessed in a cabinet or wall, and drawer-style microwaves that are placed into the cabinetry beneath countertops. We go into each type more in-depth below.
Size
If you’re looking for an over-the-range or built-in model, it’s important to choose the proper size for the space, especially if you’re replacing an existing microwave. Make sure to check whether the door has clearance to open. You have more leeway if you’re buying a countertop model, but it’s still important to measure that area in your kitchen.
Capacity
Microwave capacity is measured in cubic feet. In general, the more cubic feet, the bigger the microwave. You’ll find microwaves as small as 0.5 cubic feet to the largest models measuring in at 2 cubic feet or more. Most microwaves are in the 1-to-2-cubic-feet range.
It may be hard to determine if a microwave will meet your needs based on cubic feet alone. A better measurement to pay attention to would be the size of the interior and the turntable. Ensuring the door opening is high and wide enough to fit the items you microwave most and that the shape and size of the turntable can accommodate your plates will help you pick the right size microwave.
Power
A microwave’s power is measured in watts—the higher the wattage, the more power a microwave has and the more quickly and evenly the appliance will cook your food. Most microwaves available today are equipped with between 500 and 1,000 watts of power. The best option for you depends on how you plan to use the appliance.
Most people prefer a microwave with 700 watts (or more), as those models are still affordable and work great on microwave meals, popcorn, and other small items. If you’re planning to do heavy-duty cooking in your microwave, you’ll want a model with around 1,000 watts of power. More powerful microwaves can cook just about anything, from meat mains like meatloaf to vegetable side dishes and even desserts.
Preset Cooking Modes
In addition to the standard keys for manually entering time and starting and stopping the microwave, most models are also equipped with controls for preset cooking times. These pre-programmed cooking options automatically select power level and cooking time based on what you’re cooking.
You’ll find settings that let you cook items like popcorn, potatoes, frozen vegetables, and more with the touch of a button. You’ll even find settings for melting butter and chocolate, defrosting frozen items, and reheating pizza. Consider whether you’ll actually use these features or whether you tend to just punch in the time manually—there’s no point in paying for features you don’t use.
Cooking Functions
Some microwaves have grilling, steaming, and convection cooking capabilities. Microwaves with these additional cooking functions generally cost more than those without them.
While not as powerful as a standard propane grill, the grill function on a microwave is designed to sear the outside of food to replicate grilled results. Convection microwaves use the same technology as their oven counterparts: A fan blows and circulates hot air into the microwave, helping to cook food more quickly and evenly. Convection microwaves can also brown or crisp food, similar to a conventional oven.
Sensors
Some microwaves are equipped with sensors that automatically customize cooking time and power level based on how much moisture they detect in the food you’re cooking. The sensors are designed to help prevent overcooking and uneven cooking so that you won’t end up with rubbery, overdone, or undercooked meat—or dishes with cold spots.
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Venting
Over-the-range microwaves often come with a venting feature that can take the place of a traditional oven hood. This is beneficial when you’re cooking on the stovetop and want to remove odors or smoke from your kitchen.
There are two types of microwave vent systems: recirculating and external. Recirculating vents simply pull the air up into the appliance, run it through a filter, and then push it back out into your kitchen. This type of ventilation system is ductless and easier to install, but it doesn’t perform as efficiently as external ventilation.
External vents are connected to ductwork that sucks in air from your kitchen and redirects it to the outdoors. These systems do a better job of removing heat and odors from your kitchen, but they can be quite pricey to install if your home doesn’t already have ductwork.
Turntables
With the exception of drawer-style models, essentially all microwaves come with a turntable. Turntables may be round and rotate in a circle or rectangular and move side-to-side. They’re designed to keep food moving for more even cooking.
Racks
Most turntables are removable for easy cleaning, and many can be popped into the dishwasher to remove any dried-on food stains. As you shop, consider whether the turntable is large enough to fit your go-to microwave dishes, dinner plates, and favorite microwavable foods. Large dishes such as casseroles will likely fit better on a rectangular turntable.
Some microwaves come with a removable rack that creates shelf storage inside so you can cook multiple things at the same time. Depending on how much microwave cooking you do or how many people are heating leftovers up at the same time, you might benefit from a model with a rack.
The racks are usually made from wire, similar to the racks in your oven. Just remember that having a rack in the microwave will decrease how much clearance you have for fitting in taller items.
Price
Microwaves vary greatly in price. The cost of a new microwave is determined by size, style, and features. While you can find small, basic microwaves for under $50, most models are priced in the $100 to $500 range.
Specialty microwaves, like built-in and drawer styles and those with convection cooking capabilities, can cost even more. In general, the more power (i.e., wattage) and features a microwave has, the more it will cost.
Warranty
Most microwaves are covered by a one-year limited warranty, and some have extended coverage for the magnetron parts. Although a solid microwave should last well beyond the one-year warranty period, it’s a good idea to check the fine print before buying so you know exactly what’s covered and for how long. Most retailers offer extended warranty plans on appliances, including microwaves.
Maintenance
Only use microwave-safe food storage containers, cookware, and dinnerware for microwave cooking. Always check labels to make sure your containers are acceptable for microwave use. Metal should never be placed in the microwave, since it can spark, creating a fire hazard and damage to the microwave.
Microwaves need to be cleaned regularly since food tends to splatter and create buildup on the microwave walls and tray. Keeping your microwave clean will prevent unwanted odors in your kitchen.
If your microwave has a built-in air ventilation system, it also has a filter that needs to be changed regularly. These filters accumulate dust and cooking grease, so it’s recommended to change the filter about twice a year.
Accessories
You may want to purchase some type of microwave splatter cover to save you some cleanup time. These inexpensive covers prevent flying food particles from ending up baked onto the inside of your microwave.
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Types of Microwaves
Countertop
Countertop microwaves are some of the most popular models, and there are many options to choose from. They are quick and easy to install—just plug them in—and you can move them around as needed, making them a top choice for renters. Countertop microwaves are also a good option if your kitchen isn’t designed to accommodate a mounted or built-in microwave.
The main downside of countertop microwaves is that they take up valuable counter space, which can be frustrating if you have a small kitchen. They come in a variety of sizes, and their prices can range from $20 for a cheap model to $600 or more for a large, high-tech version.
Over-the-Range
Over-the-range (OTR) microwaves are popular in many homes, and as the name suggests, this style is designed to be mounted over your stove. OTR microwaves don’t take up any room on your counter, can create a seamless look in your kitchen, and stand in for a range hood or exhaust fan, helping to remove odors from your kitchen while you cook. In general, OTR microwaves can cost anywhere from $150 to several hundred dollars.
You may be a bit limited in your choice of OTR microwaves because you’ll need a model that fits snugly above your stove. Most people also want an appliance that matches their range. Unfortunately, OTR microwaves are more complicated to install, especially if you haven’t had one before. You may need to hire an electrician, which can drive up the overall cost of your new microwave.
Built-In
If you’re a fan of wall ovens, you may also like the look of built-in microwaves, which are designed to be installed flush within a recessed wall cavity or cabinet. They help save on counter space, but they’re more complicated to install, especially if you didn’t have one previously.
Built-in microwaves are significantly more expensive than other options, with prices usually starting at around $300. Some countertop microwaves have optional kits that allow them to be installed as built-ins, which can be a way to save some money.
Drawer
Drawer microwaves are designed to be installed under your counter. Instead of having a swinging door, they pull out from the cabinetry like a standard drawer. This style also saves valuable counter space, and many people love that these models don’t have a turntable, making them a cinch to clean. Individuals with mobility issues often find drawer microwaves easier to reach than OTR options. Most drawer models have child locks, so they’re safe to use in homes with small children.
Drawer microwaves are the most complicated to install and are significantly more expensive than other styles. Low-end models cost $800 or $900, and prices can reach up into the thousands for fancier options.
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FAQs
What does more wattage mean?
A microwave’s wattage tells you how much power it has. More wattage means your food will cook more quickly and evenly. You’ll typically see microwaves between 500 and 1,200 watts.
Be aware that microwaves with fewer than 700 watts are generally underpowered and add time to the cooking process. These models are good options for people with limited budgets and those who are looking to save space or are willing to wait a few extra minutes. If you want a fully functional microwave to cook meat and vegetables, look for models with 1,000 watts or more.
Why consider a convection microwave?
Convection microwaves circulate hot air to cook the food more evenly—and usually more quickly—than traditional microwaves. You can also use this special convection feature to brown or crisp foods in ways that a typical microwave can’t.
Are microwaves bad for you?
Some people have harbored a fear of microwave cooking due to the fact that microwaves use low-frequency radiation to heat food—specifically, a generator in the microwave turns electricity into heat in the form of electromagnetic waves hitting the food—and they worry that the radiation could be harmful to the human body.
The reality is that there are different forms of radiation, from the radiation we receive from the sun to the radiation used for X-rays. The amount of risk that radiation poses to the human body depends on both the type of radiation and the amount of exposure. The radiation used by microwaves is unable to alter the chemical makeup of you or your food.1
The biggest danger involved with microwave cooking is the risk of burning yourself on hot foods, liquids, or dishes, but that risk exists across all different cooking methods. That said, if you’re concerned about healthy microwave use, avoid microwaving in plastic containers that are not BPA-free, as chemical leaching has been found to be harmful.2
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How do you clean a microwave?
It’s a good idea to clean your microwave regularly, even if you take care of spills or splatters as they happen. To clean the inside, heat a microwave-safe bowl filled with water and a tablespoon of vinegar (white or apple cider will work) for several minutes. You want the inside to get steamy without the bowl of water boiling over. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes before opening the door. Then, wipe the inside clean with a paper towel, or use an abrasive sponge for any stuck-on food. Remove the turntable and wash it by hand or in the dishwasher.
The exterior of the microwave, including the door, handle, and control panel should also be regularly wiped down to remove fingerprints, everyday grime, and cooking residue. Use an all-purpose cleaner for the exterior, but spray it onto a paper towel or sponge first—not directly onto the microwave—to avoid it getting into the venting system.
You should never use bleach to clean your microwave.
Why Trust The Spruce Eats?
The original author of this roundup, Erica Puisis is a writer and interior design expert who has been writing about all things home and lifestyle for The Spruce since 2017. In addition to the best microwaves of the year, Erica has written similar roundups on other kitchen products, including the best over-the-range microwaves.
This roundup was updated by Katya Weiss-Andersson, who has eight years of experience cooking as a professional chef in small spaces. She doesn’t have a microwave in her studio apartment due to lack of space, but if she ever tells you that her air fryer can completely take a microwave’s place, please know that she is lying.
