Cnet Best Microwave Ovens: Top Picks for Every Kitchen Need

Choosing the best microwave oven can be overwhelming with so many options available. Cnet has curated a list of top microwave ovens.

Microwave ovens are essential kitchen appliances. They make cooking faster and easier. In this blog post, we highlight the best microwave ovens reviewed by Cnet. These models offer various features to meet different needs. From the GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven to the Nostalgia Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven, there is something for everyone.

The list includes models with air fryer, broiler, and convection modes. Each microwave is designed to save time and simplify cooking. Whether you need a compact model for a dorm or a high-tech option for your kitchen, this guide has you covered. Let’s dive into the best microwave ovens of 2023.

Ge Gcst10a1wss 4-in-1 Microwave Oven

The GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen appliance designed to meet all your cooking needs. With 1,050 Watts of power, this microwave offers multiple functionalities including Air Fryer, Broiler, and Convection Mode. Its compact size makes it perfect for countertops or dorm rooms, and it comes with Child-Lock Technology to ensure safety. The Stainless Steel finish adds a sleek touch to any kitchen decor.

Pros:

• Multi-functional: Microwave, Air Fryer, Broiler, and Convection Mode in one appliance.
• High Power: 1,050 Watts for efficient cooking.
• Compact Size: Ideal for countertops and dorm rooms.
• Child-Lock Technology: Ensures safety in households with children.
• Sleek Design: Stainless Steel finish enhances kitchen decor.

Cons:

• Weight: At 35.0 pounds, it may be heavy for some users.
• Dimensions: May take up considerable countertop space with a width of 20.6 inches and length of 16.6 inches.

The GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven stands out due to its multi-functional capabilities. Not only does it serve as a standard microwave, but it also functions as an Air Fryer, Broiler, and Convection Oven. This versatility allows you to prepare a wide range of dishes, from crispy fries to perfectly baked cookies. The high power of 1,050 Watts ensures that your food cooks evenly and quickly, saving you valuable time in the kitchen.

Despite its many advantages, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The microwave’s weight of 35.0 pounds might make it difficult for some users to move it around. Additionally, its dimensions (Height: 11.875 inches, Width: 20.6 inches, Length: 16.6 inches) mean it requires a fair amount of countertop space, which might be a concern for those with limited kitchen areas. Overall, the GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven is a robust and versatile appliance that offers a lot of value for its features.

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Panasonic Microwave Oven Nn-sn686s

The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S is a versatile and stylish addition to any kitchen. With its stainless steel finish, Inverter Technology, and Genius Sensor, this microwave offers both functionality and aesthetic appeal. It has a 1.2 cubic foot capacity and 1200W power, making it suitable for various cooking needs.

Pros:

• Inverter Technology ensures even cooking and defrosting.
• Genius Sensor automatically adjusts power and cooking time for optimal results.
• Stainless steel finish adds a modern touch to the kitchen.
• 1200W power allows for quick and efficient cooking.
• 1.2 cubic foot capacity is ideal for most households.

Cons:

• The control panel may be complex for some users.
• Fingerprint marks can be noticeable on the stainless steel surface.

The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S stands out due to its Inverter Technology which provides consistent and evenly cooked meals. The Genius Sensor is a significant advantage for those who prefer a hands-off approach to cooking, as it adjusts the power and cooking time based on the food’s moisture levels. This microwave is designed to cater to a variety of cooking requirements, making it a practical choice for any kitchen.

However, users might find the control panel somewhat challenging to navigate initially. Despite its sleek stainless steel finish, it tends to show fingerprint marks easily, which might require frequent cleaning. Overall, the Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S offers a blend of advanced features and stylish design, making it a valuable appliance for modern kitchens.

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Panasonic Homechef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven

The Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines multiple cooking functions into one sleek design. With Air Fryer, Convection Bake, FlashXpress Broiler, and Inverter Microwave Technology, this microwave oven promises to deliver excellent cooking performance. It features a 1000W power output and a 1.2 cu ft capacity, making it suitable for various cooking needs. The Easy Clean Interior and Stainless Steel finish add to its appeal and practicality.

Pros:

• 4-in-1 functionality: Air Fryer, Convection Bake, FlashXpress Broiler, and Inverter Microwave Technology
• 1000W power output for efficient cooking
• 1.2 cu ft capacity suitable for various cooking tasks
• Easy Clean Interior for hassle-free maintenance
• Stainless Steel finish that complements modern kitchen aesthetics

Cons:

• Large dimensions might not fit small kitchens
• Weight of 39.1 pounds makes it less portable
• Price might be higher compared to other microwave ovens

The Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven is designed to simplify your cooking experience by offering multiple functionalities in one appliance. With its Air Fryer feature, you can enjoy healthier fried foods with less oil. The Convection Bake function allows for even baking, making it perfect for baking cakes, cookies, and other treats. The FlashXpress Broiler offers quick and efficient broiling, while the Inverter Microwave Technology ensures even heating and defrosting of your food.

The Stainless Steel finish not only adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen but also ensures durability and easy cleaning. However, its large dimensions and weight may pose challenges for those with limited kitchen space or who need to move the appliance frequently. Additionally, the price point might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. Overall, the Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven is a robust and versatile appliance that can cater to various cooking needs, making it a valuable addition to any modern kitchen.

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Black+decker Digital Microwave Oven

The BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door is a versatile and efficient kitchen appliance. Featuring a child safety lock and a sleek stainless steel design, this microwave ensures both safety and style. With a compact size of 0.9 Cu Ft, it is perfect for small spaces while still providing ample cooking power.

Pros:

• Compact size fits well in small kitchens.
• Child safety lock for added security.
• Stainless steel design for a modern look.
• Digital controls for precise cooking.
• Push-button door for easy access.

Cons:

• 0.9 Cu Ft capacity may be too small for larger families.
• 27.778245012 Pounds weight can be cumbersome to move.

The BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven stands out with its digital controls that provide precise cooking settings, making it a reliable choice for any kitchen. Its compact size ensures it fits well in smaller spaces without compromising on functionality. The push-button door makes it easy to open and close the microwave, adding to its convenience.

On the downside, the 0.9 Cu Ft capacity might be limiting for larger households that need to cook larger quantities of food. Additionally, the microwave’s weight of 27.778245012 Pounds could make it a bit challenging to relocate. However, these minor drawbacks are outweighed by its numerous benefits, making it an excellent addition to any modern kitchen.

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Black+decker Countertop Microwave Oven

The BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu Ft is a versatile and efficient kitchen appliance. With its 6 Auto Menus, Child Lock, Memory Function, 10 Power Levels, Easy One-Touch Start, and Digital Panel, this microwave is designed to meet a variety of cooking needs. Its 900W power output ensures quick and even heating.

Pros:

• 6 Auto Menus for easy cooking
• Child Lock for safety
• Memory Function for convenience
• 10 Power Levels for precise cooking
• Easy One-Touch Start for simplicity
• Digital Panel for easy operation
• 900W power for quick heating
• Compact size fits well on countertops

Cons:

• 0.9 Cu Ft capacity may be small for larger families
• Stainless Steel exterior may show fingerprints
• 26.0 Pounds weight may be heavy for some users

The BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven boasts a sleek Stainless Steel design that complements any kitchen decor. Its compact dimensions of Height: 10.7 inches, Width: 18.6 inches, Length: 13.2 inches, make it an ideal choice for small kitchens or limited counter space. The Digital Panel and Easy One-Touch Start feature make it user-friendly, allowing you to quickly start cooking your favorite meals.

One of the standout features of this microwave is its 10 Power Levels, which provide flexibility in cooking various dishes. The Memory Function is particularly useful as it allows you to save your preferred settings for future use. The Child Lock feature ensures the safety of young children, preventing accidental operation. However, the 0.9 Cu Ft capacity may not be sufficient for larger families, and the Stainless Steel exterior, while attractive, can show fingerprints easily. Despite these minor drawbacks, the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven offers excellent performance and convenience for everyday use.

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Toshiba Ml4-em09pa(bs) Small Countertop Microwave Oven

The TOSHIBA ML4-EM09PA(BS) Small Countertop Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen appliance designed to meet the needs of modern living. With its 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function, and Child Lock, it offers convenience and safety for everyday use. This microwave oven is ideal for dorms and small kitchens, featuring a compact size of 0.9 Cu Ft and a 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable. Its sleek Black Stainless Steel design adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen decor.

Pros:

• Compact Size perfect for small spaces like dorms and apartments.
• 6 Auto Menus for easy cooking of popular dishes.
• Mute Function to prevent beeping sounds.
• Child Lock for enhanced safety.
• 900W power for efficient cooking.
• Black Stainless Steel finish for a modern look.

Cons:

• 0.9 Cu Ft capacity may be too small for larger families.
• Limited to basic microwave functions.
• 24.9 pounds weight may be heavy for some users.

The TOSHIBA ML4-EM09PA(BS) Small Countertop Microwave Oven stands out for its combination of compact size and functionality. The 6 Auto Menus make it easy to prepare common dishes with just a press of a button, while the Mute Function ensures that you can cook without disturbing others. The Child Lock feature is a valuable addition for households with young children, providing an extra layer of safety.

While the 0.9 Cu Ft capacity may not be suitable for cooking large meals, it is perfect for reheating and preparing small to medium-sized dishes quickly. The microwave’s 900W power ensures that food is cooked evenly and efficiently. Despite being slightly heavy at 24.9 pounds, its Black Stainless Steel design makes it a stylish and durable choice for any kitchen. Overall, this microwave oven offers a great blend of convenience, safety, and aesthetic appeal.

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Toshiba Em131a5c-bs Countertop Microwave Oven

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven is a versatile and efficient kitchen appliance designed to make cooking and reheating food a breeze. With a spacious 1.2 Cu Ft capacity and a 12.4″ removable turntable, this microwave is perfect for families and individuals alike. It features a smart humidity sensor, 12 auto menus, and a mute function for a customized cooking experience. The ECO mode and easy clean interior make it both environmentally friendly and low-maintenance. Its sleek black stainless steel finish adds a modern touch to any kitchen.

Pros:

• Smart humidity sensor for precise cooking.
• 12 auto menus for convenient meal preparation.
• Mute function for quiet operation.
• ECO mode to save energy.
• Easy clean interior for hassle-free maintenance.
• Sleek black stainless steel design.

Cons:

• Larger dimensions may not fit in all kitchen spaces.
• Heavier weight at 34.6 pounds.

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven stands out with its smart humidity sensor technology, which ensures that your food is cooked to perfection by adjusting the cooking time and power level automatically. This feature is particularly useful for reheating leftovers or cooking frozen meals, as it helps to maintain the food’s moisture and texture. Additionally, the 12 auto menus offer a variety of pre-programmed settings for common dishes, making meal preparation quick and easy.

Another notable feature is the mute function, which allows you to turn off the beeping sound that typically accompanies the end of the cooking cycle. This is especially useful if you have young children or prefer a quieter kitchen environment. The ECO mode is an excellent addition for those who are environmentally conscious, as it reduces the microwave’s energy consumption when not in use. Furthermore, the easy clean interior simplifies the cleaning process, making it easier to maintain the microwave’s pristine condition. Overall, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS offers a blend of functionality, convenience, and style that makes it a great addition to any kitchen.

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Nostalgia Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven

Experience a blend of retro style and modern functionality with the Nostalgia Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven. This 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700-Watt microwave is designed to fit seamlessly into your kitchen while providing efficient cooking power and convenience. The LED digital display and child lock feature ensure safety and ease of use, while the easy clean interior makes maintenance a breeze. Available in a sleek white color, this microwave is perfect for any home.

Pros:

• Compact size fits easily on countertops
• 700-Watt power offers efficient cooking
• LED digital display for easy operation
• Child lock ensures safety
• Easy clean interior simplifies maintenance
• Retro design adds a stylish touch to the kitchen

Cons:

• 0.7 Cu. Ft. capacity may be too small for larger dishes
• 700-Watt power may be less than some other models
• Manual settings might require a learning curve

The Nostalgia Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven offers a unique combination of vintage aesthetics and modern functionality. Its compact size makes it ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or office spaces where counter space is limited. Despite its smaller 0.7 Cu. Ft. capacity, it provides sufficient power at 700 Watts to handle everyday cooking tasks efficiently. The LED digital display and easy clean interior enhance user experience by offering straightforward operation and effortless maintenance.

One of the standout features of this microwave is its child lock, which ensures safety in households with young children. The retro design adds a charming touch to any kitchen decor, making it not just an appliance but a stylish statement. However, the smaller capacity and lower wattage might be a drawback for those who require more cooking space and power. Overall, the Nostalgia Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven is a great choice for those who appreciate a blend of style and practicality in their kitchen appliances.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Features Does The Ge Gcst10a1wss Microwave Offer?

The GE GCST10A1WSS Microwave offers 4-in-1 functionality with air frying, broiling, convection, and microwave modes. It has 1,050 watts of power and a child-lock feature for safety. Ideal for countertops or dorm rooms.

How Does The Panasonic Nn-sn686s Inverter Technology Work?

Panasonic NN-SN686S uses Inverter Technology for even cooking and defrosting. It maintains consistent power without overcooking. This technology ensures food retains its texture and flavor.

What Makes The Panasonic Homechef 4-in-1 Unique?

The Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 combines air frying, convection baking, broiling, and inverter microwave technology. It offers versatile cooking options and has an easy-clean interior. Ideal for diverse cooking needs.

What Safety Features Does Black+decker Digital Microwave Have?

The BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave includes a child safety lock and a push-button door. These features ensure safe usage, especially in households with children. It also has a digital panel for easy operation.

What Are The Benefits Of Toshiba Ml4-em09pa(bs)?

The TOSHIBA ML4-EM09PA(BS) offers six auto menus, a mute function, and a child lock. It’s compact and perfect for dorms. The removable turntable makes cleaning easy.

How Does The Nostalgia Retro Microwave Stand Out?

The Nostalgia Retro Microwave features a compact design with a 0. 7 cu. Ft. capacity. It has a child lock and easy-clean interior. The retro style adds a unique touch to any kitchen.

Conclusion

Selecting the right microwave oven can greatly enhance your kitchen experience. The models reviewed here offer a variety of features. Whether you need an air fryer, convection mode, or just a reliable microwave, there’s something for everyone. Ge and panasonic offer advanced cooking options with their multifunctional models.

Black+decker and toshiba provide reliable and safe choices with child-lock technology. The nostalgia retro compact option adds a stylish touch to your countertop. Each of these microwaves brings unique benefits to cater to different needs and preferences. Choose the one that fits your lifestyle and cooking habits best.

Enjoy hassle-free cooking with the right microwave oven. Make your kitchen more efficient and your meals tastier. Happy cooking!