Does your current microwave feel a little… small? Are you tired of trying to cram that family-sized casserole dish inside, only to have it spill over or not cook evenly? You’re not alone! Finding the perfect large countertop microwave can feel like a treasure hunt through a maze of confusing features and overwhelming sizes.
We get it. You want a microwave that can handle your biggest meals, reheat leftovers without a fuss, and maybe even cook a whole chicken. But with so many models boasting different wattages, capacities, and fancy buttons, how do you know which one is truly the best fit for your kitchen and your needs? It’s a common kitchen dilemma.
That’s where we come in. By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear understanding of what makes a great large countertop microwave. We’ll break down the important features, help you compare different options, and guide you toward a purchase you’ll be happy with for years to come. So, let’s dive in and find the microwave that’s ready to tackle your culinary challenges!
Our Top 5 Large Countertop Microwave Oven Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Large Countertop Microwave Oven Detailed Reviews
1. Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor
Rating: 8.7/10
The Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) is a large countertop microwave designed for busy kitchens. It boasts a generous 2.2 cubic feet of space and a powerful 1200-watt output, making it ideal for families. This stainless steel appliance offers smart features to simplify cooking.
What We Like:
- The large 2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity is fantastic for cooking big meals or reheating leftovers for a crowd. You can fit a whole chicken or a large pizza inside.
- Its 1200W power means food heats up quickly and evenly.
- The intuitive humidity sensor works with 6 preset menus to make cooking simple. It helps your food cook perfectly and keeps it moist.
- The Auto-Defrost function is a lifesaver. It defrosts meat, poultry, and fish properly, giving you great results.
- It’s easy to use with handy features like one-pound defrost, an energy-saving ECO mode, and a mute option for the sound.
- The position memory turntable ensures your food is always positioned correctly after spinning.
- A child safety lock provides peace of mind for families with young children.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has 6 auto menus, some users might wish for more specialized cooking options.
- The large size, while a pro for capacity, might be a challenge for smaller kitchen countertops.
Overall, the Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) is a powerful and user-friendly microwave that can handle large cooking tasks with ease. It’s a solid choice for any family looking to upgrade their kitchen appliance.
2. TOSHIBA ML4-EM22PAIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Sensor Cook
Rating: 9.4/10
The TOSHIBA ML4-EM22PAIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven is a powerful and versatile appliance designed to make cooking and reheating a breeze for busy families. Its spacious 2.2 cubic foot capacity and 16.5-inch turntable can handle large dishes, making it ideal for family-sized meals. The sleek stainless steel finish adds a touch of modern style to any kitchen countertop.
What We Like:
- The 1200-watt power output cooks food quickly and evenly.
- Sensor Cook technology automatically adjusts cooking time and power, so your food is always cooked perfectly.
- Six automatic menus make it simple to prepare a variety of meals, snacks, and beverages.
- The Origin Inverter technology ensures consistent heating without cold spots.
- The Two-Step Child Lock provides peace of mind by preventing accidental operation.
- Ten power levels offer flexibility for different cooking tasks, from defrosting to simmering.
What Could Be Improved:
- The external dimensions are quite large, so measure your counter space carefully before purchasing.
- While user-friendly, some advanced features might require a quick read of the manual.
Overall, this TOSHIBA microwave oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering convenience, power, and smart cooking features. It’s a reliable choice for families who want to simplify meal preparation.
3. Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In with Inverter Technology and Genius Sensor
Rating: 9.5/10
The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S is a sleek, stainless steel appliance that brings smart cooking to your kitchen. With 1200 watts of power and a 1.2 cubic foot capacity, it handles everything from quick snacks to full meals. Its inverter technology ensures food is cooked evenly, and the Genius Sensor takes the guesswork out of meal prep.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1200W cooking for fast results.
- Inverter Technology ensures even cooking and better taste.
- Genius Sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power.
- Turbo Defrost speeds up thawing frozen foods.
- Spacious 1.2 cubic foot interior fits larger dishes.
- Keep Warm feature keeps food at the perfect serving temperature.
- Sleek stainless steel design looks great on any countertop.
- Child lock adds an extra layer of safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the 13.4-inch turntable a bit small for very large plates.
- The user interface, while functional, could be more intuitive for some advanced settings.
This Panasonic microwave offers a great balance of power, smart features, and style. It’s a reliable choice for anyone looking to upgrade their microwave experience.
4. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
Rating: 9.3/10
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS is a powerful 1000W countertop microwave that makes cooking and reheating a breeze. Its large 1.2 cubic feet interior easily fits a 12-inch pizza, and the 12.4-inch removable turntable ensures even cooking. This microwave features a smart humidity sensor that automatically adjusts cooking time and power for popular foods, taking the guesswork out of meal prep. Plus, with 12 auto menus, you can prepare a variety of dishes with just the touch of a button.
What We Like:
- The smart humidity sensor is a game-changer, perfectly cooking everything from veggies to potatoes.
- It boasts a generous 1.2 cubic feet capacity, easily accommodating larger dishes and a 12-inch pizza.
- The mute function is a lifesaver for quiet kitchens or late-night snacking.
- The ECO mode helps save energy, which is good for your wallet and the planet.
- Its sleek black design looks great on any countertop.
- The easy-to-read digital display and simple control panel make it user-friendly.
What Could Be Improved:
- The user manual is only available as a PDF, which some users might find less convenient than a printed copy.
- A longer warranty would provide extra peace of mind for such a significant appliance.
This Toshiba microwave offers a fantastic combination of features and performance for everyday kitchen needs.
5. Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 8.8/10
The Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven in Silver brings convenience and quiet operation to your kitchen. This microwave is designed to make cooking, reheating, and defrosting simple and efficient. Its compact size fits well in most kitchens, and it offers smart features for everyday use.
What We Like:
- The 25L capacity is generous for a compact microwave.
- The soft-close door operates 80% quieter, making it less disruptive.
- It’s also 50% quieter during operation, reducing kitchen noise.
- One-touch auto buttons and a Food Menu offer quick access to cooking presets.
- Functions like gentle defrost and careful reheat prevent overcooking.
- The Child Lock feature adds an important safety element for families.
- Breville’s Sound Suite and Mute button minimize annoying beeps.
What Could Be Improved:
- While compact, some users might prefer an even smaller footprint.
- The 900-watt power is standard, but higher wattage options exist for faster cooking.
Overall, the Breville Compact Wave Soft Close Microwave is a well-designed appliance that prioritizes user experience and quiet operation. It’s a solid choice for anyone seeking a reliable and user-friendly countertop microwave.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Next Microwave Oven
Choosing the right large countertop microwave oven can make your kitchen life easier. These powerful appliances can heat up leftovers, defrost frozen foods, and even cook simple meals. This guide will help you find the perfect one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a large countertop microwave, keep these important features in mind:
- Wattage: This tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most large microwaves are 1000 watts or more, which is great for quick heating.
- Capacity (Cubic Feet): This is the inside space of the microwave. Large microwaves usually range from 1.5 to 2.2 cubic feet. This is enough room for a whole chicken or a large casserole dish.
- Turntable: A turntable rotates your food. This helps it cook evenly. Most large microwaves have a glass turntable that you can remove for cleaning.
- Preset Cooking Programs: Many microwaves come with buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or baked potatoes. These programs take the guesswork out of cooking.
- Sensor Cooking: This feature uses sensors to detect moisture and humidity. It then adjusts cooking time and power automatically for perfect results.
- Child Lock: This is a safety feature that prevents children from accidentally turning on the microwave.
- Interior Light: A light inside helps you see your food as it cooks.
- Easy-Clean Interior: Some microwaves have special coatings that make them easier to wipe down.
Important Materials
The materials used in a microwave affect its durability and how well it works.
- Stainless Steel Interior: Stainless steel interiors are durable and resist stains and odors. They also look sleek and modern.
- Glass Turntable: The glass turntable is important for even cooking. It should be sturdy and easy to clean.
- Exterior Finish: Most large microwaves have stainless steel or black exteriors. Both are easy to clean, but stainless steel can show fingerprints more easily.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a microwave oven better or worse.
- Build Quality: A well-built microwave will feel sturdy. The door should open and close smoothly. The control panel should be responsive.
- Even Cooking: The best microwaves cook food evenly. This means there are no cold spots. Good heat distribution is key.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves can be quite loud. Look for models that are known for being quieter.
- Ease of Use: A user-friendly microwave is a joy to use. The controls should be clear and simple to understand. The manual should be easy to read.
- Reliability: A good microwave will last for many years. Read reviews to see if a particular model is known for breaking down.
User Experience and Use Cases
A large countertop microwave is perfect for busy families and anyone who loves to cook.
- Heating Leftovers: This is the most common use. A large microwave can easily heat up dinner plates.
- Defrosting: Quickly thaw frozen meats or vegetables.
- Quick Meals: Prepare simple meals like pasta or rice.
- Snacks: Make popcorn or heat up frozen snacks.
- Entertaining: Warm up appetizers or side dishes when guests are over.
- Small Kitchens: If you don’t have an oven, a large microwave can be a lifesaver. It can handle many cooking tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best wattage for a large microwave?
A: For a large countertop microwave, 1000 watts or higher is ideal. This ensures fast and efficient cooking.
Q: How much space do I need for a large microwave?
A: Measure your countertop space before buying. Large microwaves can be quite big, so make sure you have enough room and ventilation.
Q: Are microwaves with sensor cooking worth the extra cost?
A: Yes, sensor cooking can be very helpful. It takes the guesswork out of cooking and often leads to better results.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my microwave?
A: You can clean the inside with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tough stains, try heating a bowl of water with lemon juice for a few minutes, then wipe clean.
Q: Can I put metal in the microwave?
A: No, you should never put metal in a microwave. It can cause sparks and damage the appliance.
Q: What is the difference between a countertop microwave and a built-in microwave?
A: Countertop microwaves sit on your counter. Built-in microwaves are installed into cabinetry.
Q: How long do microwaves typically last?
A: With proper care, most microwaves can last 7-10 years.
Q: Is it better to have a stainless steel interior or a painted interior?
A: Stainless steel interiors are generally more durable and easier to clean than painted interiors.
Q: What does “convection cooking” mean on a microwave?
A: Convection cooking uses a fan to circulate hot air, allowing the microwave to bake and roast foods like a regular oven.
Q: Should I buy a microwave with a turntable or one without?
A: A turntable helps food cook more evenly. Most people prefer microwaves with turntables.
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.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!