Best Basic Microwave Ovens

Best Basic Microwave Ovens, Microwave ovens have become an indispensable part of modern kitchens, with over 90% of American households owning one. Their convenience turns cooking from a chore into a quick, effortless task. Among these, the best basic microwave ovens stand out for their simplicity and reliability.

The evolution of basic microwave ovens dates back to the 1940s, yet they continue to adapt and improve. Today’s top models offer efficient cooking power, straightforward controls, and durable construction. These factors make them an excellent choice for both novice cooks and busy professionals alike.
The best basic microwave ovens are characterized by their user-friendly interfaces, consistent performance, and reliability. Leading models, such as the Panasonic NN-SN65KW and the Toshiba EM925A5A-SS, offer essential features like one-touch presets, even heating, and energy efficiency, making them ideal for both home kitchens and professional settings.

Best basic microwave ovens – Comparison Review

BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is designed to simplify your cooking experience with its intuitive pre-programmed buttons. These settings include options for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and dinner plates, making it easy to prepare a variety of meals with minimal effort. The microwave operates on a standard 110-volt outlet and utilizes 700 watts of cooking power, with an input power of 1050W. This ensures quick and efficient heating, while the 10 power settings, clock, and kitchen timer offer precise control over your cooking tasks.

Featuring a large LED digital display and an easy-to-read control panel, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is user-friendly and accessible. Safety is a priority with the inclusion of a child safety lock, which prevents accidental operation by young children. The interior light allows you to monitor your food without opening the door, and the removable 10-inch glass turntable ensures even cooking and easy cleaning. The push-button door release provides convenient access to the microwave’s interior, streamlining the cooking process.

In terms of design and build, the microwave’s dimensions are 17.3” in width, 13.0” in depth, and 10.2” in height, making it a compact yet spacious appliance suitable for various kitchen sizes. The stainless steel finish not only adds a sleek, modern look but also ensures durability and ease of maintenance. Additionally, the microwave is UL approved, providing an extra layer of assurance regarding its safety and quality. The product comes with a one-year limited warranty, underscoring BLACK+DECKER’s commitment to customer satisfaction and product reliability.

Specifications

• Voltage: 110 Volts
• Rated Input Power (Microwave): 1050W
• Cooking Power: 700 Watts
• 10 Power Settings
• Dimensions (W x D x H): 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”
• Removable 10” Glass Turntable
• UL Approved
• One-Year Limited Warranty

Bottom Line

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a compact, efficient, and user-friendly appliance ideal for small to medium-sized kitchens. Its array of pre-programmed buttons, safety features, and sleek design make it a versatile addition to any household. While its power and capacity may not suit all needs, it offers reliable performance for everyday cooking tasks.

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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 Oven boasts a powerful 1100W output, making it an efficient companion for any kitchen or office break room. Its 1.2 cubic feet capacity and 12.4-inch removable turntable allow for even heating of large dishes, including a 12-inch pizza. The smart humidity sensor is a standout feature, ensuring optimal heating for popular foods like pizza, potatoes, and vegetables. This microwave is designed to adapt to various cooking needs with 10 power settings, defrost options by time and weight, a clock, and a kitchen timer.

Beyond its functional capabilities, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Microwave Oven also impresses with its stylish black stainless steel exterior, adding a sleek touch to any kitchen decor. The large digital display is easy to read and includes a clock function, countdown timer, and cooking time remaining indicator. Users can program up to three favorite time and power combinations for quick and convenient cooking. The easy-to-grip door handle simplifies opening and closing the microwave, ensuring a user-friendly experience.

This microwave also offers additional features such as a mute function, which can be activated by pressing the “8” button for 3-5 seconds, eliminating the buzzer sound. The eco mode minimizes energy consumption when the microwave is not in use. The practical control panel is designed for ease of use, and the keypad is covered by a protective film during shipment, which should be removed before first use. For peace of mind, TOSHIBA provides a one-year warranty and recommends keeping the packaging for any future service needs or product returns.

Specifications

• Pre-programmed sensor menu for popular foods
• 1100W power wattage
• 120V – 60Hz rated voltage
• Large digital display with clock and timer
• 10 power settings
• Defrost by time and weight
• 1-year warranty

Bottom Line

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven is a versatile and powerful appliance suitable for both home kitchens and office break rooms. Its combination of advanced features, such as the smart humidity sensor and eco mode, alongside its stylish design and practical functionalities, make it a valuable addition to any culinary space.

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Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts, 0.7 Cu. Ft. – Microwave Oven With LED Lighting and Child Lock – Perfect for Apartments and Dorms – Easy Clean Grey Interior, Retro Black

The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a versatile and powerful kitchen appliance designed to make meal preparation quick and easy. With 700 watts of output power and ten power levels, this microwave ensures that your food is cooked to perfection every time. Its advanced multi-stage cooking feature allows you to customize your cooking process, ensuring optimal results for a variety of dishes. Additionally, the microwave offers six one-touch options for popular food items such as popcorn, potato, and pizza, making it extremely convenient for busy individuals.

Measuring at a compact 0.7 cubic feet, this microwave is an ideal solution for small spaces such as apartments, dorms, and office break rooms. Despite its size, it provides full-sized cooking capabilities, making it a highly efficient appliance. The easy-to-clean grey interior and retro black exterior make maintenance hassle-free, while the clear LED display, kitchen timer, and clock add to its user-friendly design. The easy-to-view interior lighting allows you to monitor your dishes as they cook, ensuring they come out just right.

Safety and convenience are paramount with the Farberware Countertop Microwave. Equipped with a child safety lock, this microwave adds an extra layer of security, making it suitable for family use. The large digital screen not only displays the remaining cook time but also features a countdown timer and clock for added convenience. The memory function is another standout feature, as it allows you to customize and save your favorite settings for quick access. With its blend of functionality, compact design, and ease of use, this microwave is a perfect addition to any kitchen.

Specifications

• Output Power: 700 watts
• Capacity: 0.7 cubic feet
• Power Levels: 10
• One-Touch Options: 6 (popcorn, potato, pizza, etc.)
• Interior: Easy-clean grey
• Exterior: Retro black
• Safety: Child safety lock
• Display: LED with kitchen timer and clock

Bottom Line

The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a powerful and compact appliance perfect for small living spaces. It combines convenience with advanced features, making meal preparation quick and easy while ensuring safety with its child lock feature. Its versatile settings and easy maintenance make it an excellent addition to any home or office kitchen.

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Comfee EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7 Cu Ft, Black

The Comfee EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is designed to simplify your cooking experience. With its compact 0.7 cubic feet capacity and 700 watts of power, it is perfect for small kitchens, apartments, or dorm rooms. The microwave features an intuitive one-touch cooking function, allowing users to prepare popular foods like popcorn, potatoes, pizza, frozen veggies, beverages, and reheat meals with ease. The bright LED digital display includes a clock and kitchen timer, providing essential time management features while you cook.

This microwave stands out with its versatile functionality and user-friendly features. It offers 11 power levels, ensuring that you can cook a variety of dishes to perfection. The mute button is a thoughtful addition for those who prefer a quieter kitchen environment, and the child safety lock provides peace of mind for families. The interior light and 10-inch glass turntable enhance visibility and even heating, making it easier to monitor your food. Additionally, the express cooking option, which ranges from 1-6 minutes with an added 30-second function, streamlines your cooking tasks.

Energy efficiency is another highlight of the Comfee EM720CPL-PMB microwave oven. Its ECO mode minimizes standby power consumption by 50%, contributing to energy savings and reducing your electricity bill. The compact design allows it to fit seamlessly into various kitchen spaces, whether on the countertop or inside a cabinet. The sleek black finish adds a modern touch to any kitchen decor. Backed by a one-year limited warranty, this microwave oven is a reliable and practical addition to any household.

Specifications

• Capacity: 0.7 Cubic Feet
• Power: 700 Watts
• LED Digital Display with Clock and Timer
• 11 Power Levels
• Child Safety Lock
• Energy-saving ECO Mode
• One-Touch Auto-Cook Functions
• Interior Light and 10-inch Glass Turntable
• Mute Button

Bottom Line

The Comfee EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact, versatile, and energy-efficient appliance ideal for small kitchens, apartments, and dorm rooms. Its user-friendly features, including one-touch auto-cook functions, mute button, and child safety lock, make it a practical choice for everyday cooking needs. While its 0.7 cubic feet capacity and 700 watts of power may be limiting for some, its overall performance and convenience make it a valuable addition to any household.

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Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. Digital Stainless Steel Microwave 1000 Watts with 6 Auto Menus, 10 Power Levels, Eco Mode, Memory, Mute Function, Child Safety Lock, Easy Clean

The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven offers a large capacity of 1.1 cubic feet, making it an ideal choice for a variety of cooking needs. Its robust 1000-watt power coupled with 10 adjustable power levels ensures that cooking, heating, and defrosting are performed efficiently and effectively. The microwave comes equipped with six automatic cooking presets for popular food items like popcorn, potatoes, pizza, veggies, beverages, and leftovers, which simplifies the cooking process for users by eliminating the guesswork.

One of the standout features of this microwave is its multiphase cooking capability, allowing users to program two different cooking cycles for a single food item. This means you can switch cooking modes automatically without having to manually adjust settings. Additionally, the memory function adds convenience by letting you save frequently used settings, enabling quick and consistent heating routines. The microwave also boasts an eco mode, which helps reduce energy consumption by turning off the LED display when not in use, contributing to a more energy-efficient kitchen.

Designed with modern aesthetics and functionality in mind, the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven features a sleek stainless-steel finish along with a removable turntable for easy cleaning. The addition of a child safety lock ensures that the microwave can be safely used in households with young children, while the mute function allows for quieter operation, making it suitable for apartments and dorm rooms. The quick start +30 seconds button offers instant heating convenience, making this microwave a versatile and user-friendly kitchen appliance.

Specifications

• 1.1 cubic feet capacity
• 1000 Watts
• 10 power levels
• 6 automatic cooking presets
• Memory function
• Multiphase cooking
• Eco mode
• Mute function
• Childproof safety lock

Bottom Line

The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a high-performance appliance designed for efficiency and convenience. With its powerful cooking capabilities, user-friendly features, and sleek design, it is a valuable addition to any kitchen. Whether you need quick heating or precise cooking, this microwave offers the versatility and reliability you need.

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Best Basic Microwave Ovens: A Comprehensive Buying Guide

Microwave ovens are essential appliances in modern kitchens. Basic models, while simpler, offer great reliability and ease of use. This guide will help you choose the best basic microwave ovens for your needs.

### Key Features to Consider
Understanding the essential features of a basic microwave oven can greatly assist your decision-making. One such feature is wattage, which affects cooking power. Typically, basic microwaves range from 600 to 1200 watts. Higher wattage equates to faster cooking times, so consider your cooking habits when selecting a model.

Another important feature is the control panel. Although advanced models offer touchscreens and programmable options, basic microwaves often have straightforward, easy-to-use buttons or dials. Look for clear labeling and a user-friendly interface to streamline your cooking process.

Additional features like preset cooking programs and energy-saving modes can also be beneficial. Preset programs simplify cooking common foods like popcorn or vegetables, ensuring consistency. Energy-saving modes help reduce power consumption, which is both eco-friendly and cost-effective.

### Top Brands in Basic Microwave Ovens
When selecting the best basic microwave ovens, brand reputation matters. Brands like Panasonic, Toshiba, and GE have long-standing reputations for quality and reliability in kitchen appliances. Panasonic models, such as the NN-SN65KW, are known for their durability and powerful performance. They often feature intuitive controls and efficient heating systems.

Toshiba offers solid options like the EM925A5A-SS, which combines simplicity with advanced features. Their microwaves are typically energy-efficient and include convenient presets for commonly microwaved items. These factors make Toshiba a reliable choice for those seeking a basic microwave with additional perks.

GE is another brand worth considering. Known for their robustness and user-friendly designs, GE microwaves frequently feature handy cooking programs and energy-saving options. Their appliances are built to last, making GE a dependable pick for basic microwave ovens.

### Ideal Size and Capacity
Size and capacity are crucial factors to consider. Most basic microwave ovens range from 0.7 to 1.2 cubic feet in capacity. Smaller sizes (0.7 to 0.9 cubic feet) are perfect for limited counter space or single-person households. Despite their compact size, they can handle most cooking tasks efficiently.

For larger families or those who frequently entertain, a size of 1.0 to 1.2 cubic feet might be more suitable. These models offer more interior space for larger dishes or multiple items at once. However, be sure to measure your available counter space to ensure a good fit.

Consider the turntable size as well. A larger turntable allows for more even cooking, especially for bigger plates or bowls. Whether you’re reheating leftovers or preparing a quick meal, the right size and capacity can significantly enhance your microwave experience.

### Importance of Safety Features
Safety features are often overlooked but are essential in a microwave oven. One critical safety feature is the child lock, which prevents unintended use. This is especially important in households with young children, offering peace of mind for parents.

Auto shut-off features are another safety consideration. This function ensures the microwave turns off automatically once the cooking time ends, preventing overheating and potential fire hazards. It’s a simple yet vital feature that enhances safety.

Additionally, always look for microwaves with sturdy door hinges and latches. A secure door ensures that microwave radiation does not leak, which could otherwise pose health risks. Prioritizing these safety features can make a significant difference in the longevity and reliability of your microwave oven.

### Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
Maintaining your microwave oven is vital for its longevity. Basic microwave ovens generally feature easy-to-clean interiors, often lined with non-stick material. This makes wiping down spills and splatters a breeze, keeping your microwave hygienic and odor-free.

Removable turntables also facilitate cleaning. You can take the turntable out, clean it separately, and easily reinstall it. Some models have turntables that are dishwasher-safe, adding an extra layer of convenience.

Additionally, pay attention to the exterior material. Stainless steel models are popular due to their durability and ease of cleaning. Regularly wiping down the exterior with a damp cloth can keep your microwave looking new and functioning well for years.

### Budget Considerations
While basic microwave ovens are generally affordable, prices can vary. Most basic models range from $60 to $200, depending on the brand, size, and features. Setting a budget before shopping can help narrow down your choices and prevent overspending.

Consider cost-saving features like energy efficiency. A slightly higher initial investment in an energy-efficient model can result in long-term savings on electricity bills. Look for microwaves with good energy ratings and eco-friendly modes to maximize savings.

Warranty is another aspect to consider when budgeting. Basic microwaves usually come with a one-year warranty, but some brands offer extended warranties. A longer warranty period can provide additional peace of mind and potentially save costs on repairs or replacements.

### User Reviews and Ratings
User reviews and ratings can provide valuable insights into the performance and reliability of basic microwave ovens. Websites like Amazon, Best Buy, and Consumer Reports feature detailed reviews from verified buyers. These reviews often highlight real-world pros and cons that you might not find in product descriptions.

Pay attention to common themes in the reviews. Consistent praise or complaints about specific features can help you determine if a microwave meets your needs. For instance, if multiple users commend a model for its quick heating but criticize its loud noise, you’ll know what to expect.

High ratings from a large number of users generally indicate a reliable product. Combining this feedback with professional reviews can help you make an informed decision, ensuring you select the best basic microwave oven for your kitchen.

Equipment Review: The Best Microwave Ovens

Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing the right microwave oven can be challenging. Here are some common questions and answers to help guide your decision.

1. What Wattage Should I Look For In A Basic Microwave Oven?

Wattage is a key factor as it determines cooking speed. Basic microwaves typically range from 600 to 1200 watts. A higher wattage means faster cooking, which can save time and energy.

For most households, 800 to 1000 watts is sufficient. It provides quick heating without consuming too much power. Evaluate your cooking needs to find the ideal wattage for your kitchen.

2. Are There Any Specific Brands Known For Quality Basic Microwaves?

Several brands are renowned for their reliable basic microwave ovens. Panasonic, Toshiba, and GE are top choices due to their consistent quality and performance.

Panasonic offers durable models with powerful heating. Toshiba microwaves are known for their energy efficiency, while GE models often combine user-friendly design with robust features.

3. What Safety Features Should I Consider?

Safety features are important to ensure secure use. Look for child locks to prevent accidental usage, especially if you have young children at home.

Auto shut-off is another essential safety feature. It turns off the microwave automatically after cooking, reducing the risk of overheating and potential fire hazards.

4. How Do I Maintain And Clean My Basic Microwave?

Maintaining your microwave ensures long-term usage. Clean spills immediately to prevent stains and odors. Most basic microwaves have easy-to-clean, non-stick interiors.

Removable turntables facilitate thorough cleaning. You can wash them separately, ensuring they remain hygienic. Regularly wiping the exterior with a damp cloth keeps it looking shiny and new.

5. What Size Should I Choose For My Microwave?

Selecting the right size depends on your kitchen space and cooking needs. Basic microwaves range from 0.7 to 1.2 cubic feet in capacity.

Smaller sizes are ideal for limited counter space and single-person households. Larger models are better for families or those who often cook large meals. Measure your space before making a decision.
Selecting the best basic microwave ovens involves considering key factors like wattage, design, safety features, and ease of cleaning. High-wattage microwaves cook food quickly and efficiently, while intuitive controls and a user-friendly interface enhance daily convenience. Recognized brands such as Panasonic, Toshiba, and GE offer durable and reliable models that fit various cooking needs and kitchen sizes.

An optimal choice also incorporates essential safety features like child locks and auto shut-off mechanisms, ensuring secure use in any household. Additionally, maintaining the microwave with easy-to-clean surfaces and removable components like turntables extends its longevity. By understanding these critical elements, you can confidently select a basic microwave oven that perfectly meets your needs and enhances your kitchen experience.

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