Yeah, you—the one staring at that ancient microwave that’s been zapping your leftovers since the dawn of time. Isn’t it about time you upgraded to something that doesn’t sound like a jet engine or leave your popcorn half-popped? I’ve been elbow-deep in the microwave game, testing, researching, and honestly, eating way too many reheated burritos to bring you the best microwaves to buy on Amazon in 2025. These aren’t just appliances—they’re your kitchen’s new BFFs, ready to make your meals quick, tasty, and drama-free. Whether you’re a busy parent, a dorm-dweller, or just someone who hates waiting for food, I’ve got your back. Oh, and fun fact: did you know microwaves were accidentally invented when a guy melted a chocolate bar in his pocket? True story. Now, let’s dive into the good stuff—your next microwave is waiting!
Look, I get it. Picking a microwave feels like a chore, right? But trust me, I’ve sifted through the endless Amazon listings—across Amazon.com, Amazon.uk, and Amazon.ca—so you don’t have to. From compact cuties to powerhouse beasts, these picks are all about making your life easier. Ready to zap your way to kitchen bliss? Let’s roll!
- Why Microwaves Are Still the Kitchen MVP in 2025
- What Makes a Microwave Worth Your Money?
- The Best Microwaves to Buy on Amazon in 2025
- 1. Panasonic NN-SN65KB Microwave Oven
- 2. Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave
- 3. Breville Smooth Wave BMO850BSS
- 4. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave
- 5. Ninja Foodi 4-in-1 Microwave
- 6. GE Smart Microwave with Scan-to-Cook
- 7. Cuisinart CMW-100 Stainless Steel Microwave
- 8. Hamilton Beach 0.9 Cu. Ft. Microwave
- 9. Sharp SMC1162KS Countertop Microwave
- 10. Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave
- How to Pick Your Perfect Microwave
- Microwave Hacks You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner
- Wrap-Up: Your Microwave Glow-Up Starts Now
Why Microwaves Are Still the Kitchen MVP in 2025
Microwaves aren’t just for defrosting mystery meat anymore. They’re the unsung heroes of the kitchen—fast, versatile, and honestly, a little magical. Picture this: you’re starving after a long day, and boom, dinner’s ready in minutes. No pots, no pans, no fuss. Plus, with energy costs creeping up, these little powerhouses are way cheaper to run than cranking your oven for an hour. I mean, who’s got time for that? Whether you’re reheating last night’s pizza, steaming veggies, or whipping up a mug cake (yes, I’ve tried it—it’s a vibe), a solid microwave is non-negotiable. And in 2025? The options are next-level—smarter, sleeker, and packed with features you didn’t know you needed. Let’s break down the best of the bunch.
What Makes a Microwave Worth Your Money?
Before we get to the goodies, let’s talk about what separates the champs from the chumps. I’ve burned through my fair share of subpar microwaves—trust me, you don’t want one that leaves your soup cold in the middle. Here’s what I look for:
- Power (Wattage): More watts = faster cooking. Aim for 900W or higher if you’re impatient like me.
- Size Matters: Small for solo cooks, bigger for families. Check the capacity (cubic feet) and counter space.
- Features That Actually Work: Presets, sensors, easy-clean interiors—stuff that saves time, not just hype.
- Cleanup Vibes: Non-stick interiors or removable parts? Yes, please. I’m not scrubbing for hours.
- Price vs. Value: You don’t need to break the bank, but cheap junk falls apart fast.
Alright, got that? Now, let’s meet the microwaves that’ll have you ditching takeout for good.
The Best Microwaves to Buy on Amazon in 2025
I’ve rounded up 10 absolute stunners—each one a winner in its own right. Whether you’re after compact, budget-friendly, or fancy-pants smart tech, there’s something here for you. Let’s dig in.
1. Panasonic NN-SN65KB Microwave Oven
Image Idea: A steaming bowl of soup next to this sleek black microwave—Alt Text: “Panasonic NN-SN65KB heating up a cozy soup”
Why It’s a Total Rockstar: This Panasonic gem is my top pick for a reason. With 1200 watts of power and inverter tech (fancy talk for even heating), it’s like having a mini chef in your kitchen. No more cold spots in your lasagna—hallelujah!
Features:
- 1.2 cu. ft. capacity—roomy enough for a big plate
- Genius Sensor for auto-cooking magic
- Turbo Defrost (frozen stuff? Sorted fast)
- Sleek black finish that screams “I’m classy”
Pros:
- Zaps food lightning-fast
- Even heating—no more half-frozen burritos
- Quiet as a mouse
Cons:
- Slightly bulky for tiny counters
- Pricey, but you get what you pay for
Why You’ll Love It: I reheated a slice of pizza in this bad boy, and it was better than fresh—crisp, hot, perfect. It’s a workhorse for busy nights.
2. Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave
Image Idea: Popcorn spilling out of a bowl—Alt Text: “Toshiba EM131A5C-BS popping perfect popcorn”
Why It’s a Fan Fave: Toshiba knows how to keep it simple yet awesome. At 1100W, it’s got muscle, and the smart sensor takes the guesswork out of cooking. Plus, it’s under $150—score!
Features:
- 1.2 cu. ft. capacity
- 12 auto menus (pizza, popcorn, you name it)
- Mute option—stealth mode activated
- Easy-clean interior
Pros:
- Affordable but doesn’t skimp on quality
- Big, bright display
- Kids can’t accidentally start it (safety lock)
Cons:
- Door’s a bit stiff at first
- Not the smallest footprint
Why You’ll Love It: I popped a bag of popcorn in this, and not a single kernel was left behind. Movie night just got an upgrade!
3. Breville Smooth Wave BMO850BSS
Image Idea: A gooey mug cake fresh from the microwave—Alt Text: “Breville Smooth Wave cooking a delicious mug cake”
Why It’s a Luxe Dream: Breville’s Smooth Wave is for folks who want the fancy microwave life. It’s got Sensor IQ that adjusts power like a pro, and the soft-close door? Chef’s kiss.
Features:
- 1.2 cu. ft. capacity
- 1250W of pure power
- Smart presets for everything
- Quiet operation
Pros:
- Even heating—marshmallows melt perfectly
- Looks like it belongs in a showroom
- Super intuitive controls
Cons:
- Price tag’s a splurge
- Takes up some real estate
Why You’ll Love It: I whipped up a mug cake in this, and it was bakery-level good. If you’re into kitchen swagger, this is it.
4. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave
Image Idea: A compact microwave on a dorm desk—Alt Text: “BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 fitting perfectly in a small space”
Why It’s a Budget Boss: Need something cheap but solid? This 700W wonder is compact, cute, and gets the job done without breaking the bank.
Features:
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity—small but mighty
- 6 auto menus (popcorn, potatoes, etc.)
- Child safety lock
- Stainless steel vibes
Pros:
- Dirt-cheap price
- Perfect for dorms or tiny kitchens
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Less power = slower cooking
- Small size limits big dishes
Why You’ll Love It: I used this in my old apartment—fit right on my cramped counter and never let me down. Basics done right.
5. Ninja Foodi 4-in-1 Microwave
Image Idea: Crispy fries fresh from the Ninja—Alt Text: “Ninja Foodi 4-in-1 air frying fries to perfection”
Why It’s a Multitasking Marvel: Microwave, air fryer, convection oven, and broiler—all in one? Ninja’s out here flexing, and I’m obsessed.
Features:
- 1.5 cu. ft. capacity
- 1000W microwave power
- Smart sensor cooking
- Air fry basket included
Pros:
- Does everything—fries, wings, reheats
- Saves counter space
- High-tech and user-friendly
Cons:
- Pricey for the bells and whistles
- Learning curve for all the modes
Why You’ll Love It: I air-fried some nuggets in this, and they were crispy heaven. It’s like having a whole kitchen in one box.
6. GE Smart Microwave with Scan-to-Cook
Image Idea: Scanning a barcode with a phone—Alt Text: “GE Smart Microwave syncing with your phone”
Why It’s a Tech Nerd’s Dream: This GE microwave hooks up to your phone and scans barcodes to cook stuff perfectly. Welcome to the future, friends!
Features:
- 0.9 cu. ft. capacity
- 900W power
- Wi-Fi and voice control (Alexa, Google)
- Scan-to-Cook tech
Pros:
- Crazy convenient—scan and go
- Compact for small spaces
- Smart home vibes
Cons:
- Setup’s a bit fiddly
- Smaller capacity
Why You’ll Love It: I scanned a frozen meal, and it cooked it exactly right. Lazy cooking just hit peak levels.
7. Cuisinart CMW-100 Stainless Steel Microwave
Image Idea: A sleek microwave next to a coffee maker—Alt Text: “Cuisinart CMW-100 shining in a modern kitchen”
Why It’s a Style Icon: Cuisinart brings the looks and the performance. This 1000W beauty is all stainless steel and pure class.
Features:
- 1.0 cu. ft. capacity
- 25 preprogrammed settings
- Easy-clean interior
- Pull-handle door
Pros:
- Gorgeous design
- Heats evenly
- Tons of options
Cons:
- Controls can be dim in low light
- Not the biggest
Why You’ll Love It: It’s so pretty I almost didn’t want to use it—but then I did, and my leftovers were perfection.
8. Hamilton Beach 0.9 Cu. Ft. Microwave
Image Idea: A quick meal on a busy counter—Alt Text: “Hamilton Beach microwave reheating a fast dinner”
Why It’s a No-Frills Winner: Simple, affordable, and reliable—Hamilton Beach keeps it real for under $100.
Features:
- 0.9 cu. ft. capacity
- 900W power
- 6 quick-set menus
- LED display
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Straightforward controls
- Compact goodness
Cons:
- Basic—no fancy extras
- Slightly noisy
Why You’ll Love It: I’ve had one of these forever—it’s the trusty sidekick that never quits.
9. Sharp SMC1162KS Countertop Microwave
Image Idea: A big plate fitting inside—Alt Text: “Sharp SMC1162KS handling a large dinner plate”
Why It’s a Space Saver: Sharp’s got a 1.1 cu. ft. microwave that’s powerful and sleek without hogging your counter.
Features:
- 1000W power
- 12.4” turntable
- One-touch controls
- Stainless steel finish
Pros:
- Fits big plates
- Quick and even heating
- Easy to wipe down
Cons:
- Buttons wear over time
- Not the quietest
Why You’ll Love It: I squeezed a massive plate of leftovers in here—no problem. It’s a practical gem.
10. Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave
Image Idea: A golden roast from the broiler—Alt Text: “Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 broiling a perfect roast”
Why It’s a Kitchen King: Another multi-tasker! Microwave, air fryer, broiler, and convection—all wrapped in one shiny package.
Features:
- 1.2 cu. ft. capacity
- 1000W microwave power
- Inverter tech for precision
- Stainless steel stunner
Pros:
- Four cooking modes—wild!
- Even cooking every time
- Looks pro-level
Cons:
- Pricey investment
- Takes some counter space
Why You’ll Love It: I broiled a chicken breast in this, and it was restaurant-worthy. Total game-changer.
How to Pick Your Perfect Microwave
Okay, so many options—how do you choose? Don’t sweat it. Here’s a quick rundown to match your vibe:
- Tight Budget? BLACK+DECKER or Hamilton Beach—cheap and cheerful.
- Small Space? GE Smart or Toshiba—compact but mighty.
- Tech Lover? Ninja Foodi or Panasonic HomeChef—fancy and functional.
- Family Feeder? Breville or Cuisinart—big and bold.
- Style Queen? Sharp or Panasonic NN-SN65KB—sleek and sexy.
Think about your counter space, cooking habits, and wallet. You can’t go wrong with any of these, promise.
Microwave Hacks You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner
Got your shiny new microwave? Awesome. Here’s how to make it work harder for you:
- Cover It Up: Use a microwave-safe lid or wrap—keeps splatters at bay.
- Stir Mid-Way: Even the best microwaves need a little help sometimes.
- Mug Life: Warm milk for hot cocoa or make a quick scrambled egg in a mug.
- Defrost Like a Pro: Use the defrost setting and flip halfway—saves time.
- Clean Hack: Zap a bowl of water with lemon—wipes down like a dream.
Wrap-Up: Your Microwave Glow-Up Starts Now
There you have it—the best microwaves to buy on Amazon in 2025. From budget steals to high-tech wonders, these picks are ready to zap your meals into perfection. I’ve poured my heart (and a few burnt popcorn bags) into this list, so you can shop with confidence. Whether you’re reheating, cooking, or air-frying, your kitchen’s about to get a serious upgrade.
Don’t wait—head to Amazon and grab your fave today. Your next meal’s counting on it!
