Ever felt like your current microwave just isn’t cutting it? Maybe you’re tired of reheating pizza in batches or struggling to fit that family-sized casserole dish inside. You’re not alone! Finding the perfect large countertop microwave can feel like a quest, with so many sizes, features, and brands to choose from. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and wonder if you’re making the right pick for your kitchen and your family’s needs.
That’s where this guide comes in. We’re here to take the guesswork out of choosing a large countertop microwave. We’ll explore what makes these bigger appliances so great and what you really need to look for. By the time you finish reading, you’ll feel confident about finding a microwave that’s not just large, but also smart, powerful, and perfect for your home.
So, get ready to discover how to easily upgrade your kitchen with a microwave that fits your life – and your biggest meals! Let’s dive into the world of spacious reheating and cooking.
Our Top 5 Large Countertop Microwave Ovens Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Large Countertop Microwave Ovens Detailed Reviews
1. Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor
Rating: 8.6/10
The Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) is a large countertop microwave designed for busy households. Its generous 2.2 cubic foot capacity and powerful 1200 watts make it ideal for cooking family-sized meals. This stainless steel appliance boasts smart features that simplify meal preparation, from defrosting to reheating. It even has a mute option to keep your kitchen quiet!
What We Like:
- Huge Capacity: It easily fits a 16-inch pizza or a whole chicken, perfect for large families or entertaining.
- Smart Sensor Cooking: The humidity sensor ensures your food is heated evenly and stays moist, thanks to 6 automatic preset menus.
- Convenient Auto Menus: Six helpful menus cover daily needs like cooking bacon, reheating rolls, warming beverages, and preparing oatmeal.
- Effective Auto-Defrost: This function safely defrosts meat, poultry, and fish, mimicking natural thawing for great results.
- User-Friendly Design: Features like one-pound defrost, an energy-saving ECO mode, a mute option, and a memory function make it simple to operate.
- Safety First: The child safety lock provides peace of mind for families with young children.
What Could Be Improved:
- Size: Its large footprint might not fit in smaller kitchens.
- Learning Curve: While easy to use, mastering all the advanced features might take a little practice.
This Toshiba microwave is a powerful and convenient addition to any kitchen, offering ample space and smart technology for effortless cooking.
2. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
Rating: 9.4/10
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS is a 1.2 cubic foot countertop microwave that makes cooking easy. Its sleek black design fits well in any kitchen. This microwave has 1000 watts of power, which means it heats food quickly. It also has a large 12.4-inch turntable that can be removed for cleaning.
What We Like:
- Smart Humidity Sensor automatically cooks food perfectly, so no more undercooked or overcooked meals.
- It has 6 helpful preset menus for common foods like pizza and vegetables.
- You get 10 different power levels for flexible cooking, plus a clock and timer.
- Defrosting is simple by weight or time.
- One-touch start gets you cooking for 1 to 6 minutes instantly.
- The Mute Mode lets you turn off the annoying buzzer by holding the “8” button for a few seconds.
- The ECO Mode helps save energy.
- The inside is easy to clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has 6 preset menus, the description mentions 12 auto menus elsewhere, which can be confusing.
- The input power of 1600 watts is higher than some other microwaves.
This Toshiba microwave is a great addition to any kitchen, offering smart features and convenience for everyday cooking needs.
3. TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology
Rating: 8.8/10
The TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. Its sleek Black Stainless Steel finish looks great on any counter. This microwave is packed with features that make cooking and reheating a breeze.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1250-watt output cooks food quickly.
- Inverter Technology ensures even heating and defrosting.
- Six Smart Sensor Auto Menus take the guesswork out of cooking common foods.
- The Sound On/Off function is a thoughtful feature for quiet kitchens.
- A Two-Step Child Lock provides peace of mind for families with young children.
- The Quick Start button makes it easy to begin cooking with one touch.
- The large 1.6 Cu.ft capacity and 13.6″ removable turntable fit big dishes.
What Could Be Improved:
- The external dimensions are a bit large and might take up significant counter space.
- The protective film on the keypad needs to be removed before first use, which is a minor step.
This Toshiba microwave offers advanced features and user-friendly operation. It’s a reliable and efficient appliance for all your kitchen needs.
4. GE® 4-in-1 Countertop Convection Microwave Oven w/ 1
Rating: 8.9/10
Meet the GE® 4-in-1 Countertop Convection Microwave Oven, a versatile kitchen helper that does more than just reheat leftovers. This stainless steel appliance combines the power of a microwave, air fryer, convection oven, and broiler into one sleek unit. It’s designed to save space while offering a wide range of cooking options for busy households, dorm rooms, or small kitchens.
What We Like:
- All-in-One Cooking: It’s a microwave, air fryer, convection oven, and broiler. You can cook, crisp, bake, and broil all in one appliance.
- Healthy Air Frying: The built-in air fryer cooks your favorite foods to a crispy perfection with less oil, making meals healthier.
- Even Cooking: The convection mode uses a special rack to circulate hot air, ensuring your food cooks evenly and gets a nice golden-brown finish.
- Quick and Easy Presets: Preset controls for things like fries and nuggets take the guesswork out of cooking. Just select your food and let the oven do the work.
- Safety First: The two-step child lock feature adds an extra layer of safety, preventing accidental use by little ones.
- Compact Size: It’s a 1.0 cubic foot appliance, which is compact enough to fit on most countertops but still offers plenty of cooking space.
- Powerful Performance: With 1,050 watts of power, it heats and cooks food quickly.
What Could Be Improved:
- Learning Curve: While it has presets, learning to use all four functions (microwave, air fry, convection, broil) might take a little practice.
- Capacity for Large Meals: For very large families or big dinner parties, the 1.0 cubic foot capacity might feel a bit small.
This GE oven is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to simplify their cooking and enjoy a variety of delicious meals. It brings a lot of cooking power and convenience to a compact design.
5. TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.2/10
Meet the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven. This black stainless steel appliance is a real kitchen helper. It’s not just a microwave; it can also air fry, bake, and broil. It even has a special mode to get rid of odors. The 1.0 cubic foot size is just right for most kitchens, and the 12.4-inch turntable can fit a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza. Plus, it has a handy child lock to keep little hands out.
What We Like:
- It’s an 8-in-1 machine, so it does a lot of different cooking jobs: microwave, air fry, bake (convection), broil (grill), combi, low temp, odor removal, and defrost.
- You can make healthier “fried” foods with the air fry function, using less fat.
- It has a powerful 1000-watt microwave output.
- The 12.4-inch turntable remembers where to stop, making it easy to unload food.
- It’s compact but has a good amount of space inside for cooking.
- It comes with helpful features like popcorn buttons, easy knobs, and a timer.
- The black stainless steel look is stylish and the inside is easy to clean.
- The two-step child lock is a great safety feature for families.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions for the child lock could be clearer.
- Some users might want an even larger capacity for bigger meals.
This TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo is a versatile and stylish addition to any kitchen. It offers a great mix of cooking options and convenience.
Choosing the Right Large Countertop Microwave: Your Guide to Speedy Meals
Finding the perfect large countertop microwave can make your kitchen life much easier. These bigger microwaves cook more food at once. They are great for families or anyone who likes to reheat leftovers or cook larger dishes. This guide will help you pick the best one for your needs.
What to Look For: Key Features of a Great Microwave
When you shop for a large countertop microwave, keep these important features in mind:
Wattage: The Powerhouse
- Higher wattage means faster cooking. Look for microwaves with 1000 watts or more. This will help you heat up your food quickly and evenly.
Capacity: Space for Your Food
- Measure your space and your dishes. Large microwaves usually start around 1.6 cubic feet. Make sure the microwave fits comfortably on your counter. Also, check if it’s big enough for your favorite plates and bowls.
Turntable Size: Even Cooking is Key
- A larger turntable cooks food more evenly. Most large microwaves have turntables that are 13 inches or bigger. This helps prevent cold spots in your food.
Presets and Smart Features: Cooking Made Simple
- Convenient buttons save you time. Many microwaves have presets for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or baked potatoes. Some advanced models have smart sensors that adjust cooking time automatically.
Ease of Use: Simple Controls
- Clear buttons and a bright display make things easy. You want a microwave that is simple to operate. Look for intuitive controls and a display that is easy to read.
Materials Matter: What Your Microwave is Made Of
The materials used in a microwave can affect its durability and how it looks.
Stainless Steel: Sleek and Strong
- Stainless steel is a popular choice. It looks modern and is easy to clean. It’s also very strong.
Plastic: Lightweight and Affordable
- Plastic interiors are common. They are usually lighter and cheaper than stainless steel. However, they can sometimes scratch or stain more easily.
Glass Turntable: Essential for Rotation
- A sturdy glass turntable is a must. This piece rotates your food for even cooking. Make sure it feels solid and is easy to remove for cleaning.
Quality Boosters and Reducers: What Makes a Microwave Great (or Not So Great)
Certain things can make a microwave perform better or worse.
What Improves Quality:
- Good insulation: This helps keep heat inside for efficient cooking.
- Powerful fan: A good fan helps remove steam and odors.
- Durable door hinges: These need to be strong to withstand frequent opening and closing.
- Even heating technology: Some microwaves use special waves to cook food more evenly.
What Reduces Quality:
- Cheap plastic parts: These can break easily or melt over time.
- Weak door seals: These can let heat escape, making cooking take longer.
- Noisy operation: A loud microwave can be annoying.
- Uneven cooking: This is a major problem that leads to frustration.
User Experience and Use Cases: Making Your Kitchen Life Easier
Think about how you will use your microwave most often.
For Busy Families:
- A large capacity microwave is perfect for reheating multiple plates of food at once.
- Preset buttons for kids’ snacks can save time.
For Meal Preppers:
- Higher wattage helps reheat large batches of food quickly.
- A spacious interior fits larger meal prep containers.
For Those Who Love Leftovers:
- A big turntable ensures your leftovers are heated thoroughly and evenly.
- Simple controls make reheating a breeze.
A large countertop microwave is a valuable addition to any kitchen. By considering these features, materials, and quality factors, you can find a microwave that will serve you well for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions: Your Microwave Answers
Here are answers to some common questions about large countertop microwaves.
Q: What is the best wattage for a large microwave?
A: For a large countertop microwave, a wattage of 1000 watts or higher is generally considered best. This ensures faster and more even cooking.
Q: How do I know if a microwave is large enough?
A: Look at the cubic feet measurement. Large microwaves typically start at 1.6 cubic feet. Measure the space on your counter and the size of your largest dishes to be sure.
Q: Are stainless steel microwaves worth the extra cost?
A: Stainless steel microwaves are often more durable and easier to clean than plastic ones. They also tend to look more modern. Many people find them worth the investment.
Q: What does “even heating technology” mean?
A: This refers to special ways the microwave distributes heat. It helps cook food evenly throughout, so you don’t have hot and cold spots.
Q: Can I microwave metal containers?
A: No, you should never microwave metal. It can cause sparks and damage the microwave. Always use microwave-safe dishes, usually glass or ceramic.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my microwave?
A: You can clean the inside by placing a bowl of water with some lemon juice or vinegar inside. Microwave it for a few minutes until it steams. Then, wipe down the inside with a cloth. The steam loosens stuck-on food.
Q: What are “preset buttons”?
A: Preset buttons are pre-programmed cooking settings for common foods like popcorn or pizza. You just press the button for that food, and the microwave cooks it for the right amount of time.
Q: How often should I replace my microwave?
A: Microwaves can last for many years, often 7 to 10 years or more, with proper care. If it starts to malfunction or show signs of wear, it might be time for a new one.
Q: Can I use my microwave for more than just reheating?
A: Yes! Many large microwaves can be used for defrosting, cooking vegetables, making certain desserts, and even steaming. Some have special functions for these tasks.
Q: What is the warranty typically like for a large countertop microwave?
A: Warranties vary by brand and model. Most manufacturers offer at least a one-year warranty covering parts and labor. Some may offer longer warranties on specific components, like the magnetron.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
My name is Gary Flores, the creator of deepskyblue-owl-132507.hostingersite.com.. With a passion for creating cozy, functional, and beautiful spaces, I share my personal experiences and expertise about everything related to home improvement. From practical tips to design inspiration, my goal is to help you make your home the best it can be.