This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how manufacturers are pushing boundaries. Having tested dozens, I can say that an easy-to-use microwave doesn’t just cook faster—it makes everything more convenient. The TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven impressed me with its 8-in-1 multifunctionality, from air frying to convection baking, all powered by 1000 watts. It handled crispy fries, baked casseroles, and defrosted with zero fuss, often in a single device. Its safety features, like the Two-Step Child Lock, make it family-friendly, and the compact size yet large capacity means you get power without clutter.
Compared to others, like the Black+Decker 5-in-1 or GE’s convection units, the Toshiba shines because of its versatility and user-friendly controls. While the Breville offers premium tech, it’s more expensive and less focused solely on microwave functions. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Toshiba Air Fryer Combo for its blend of advanced features, durability, and value—perfect for upgrading your kitchen essentials.
Top Recommendation: TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Why We Recommend It: It offers 8-in-1 functionality, combining microwave, air fry, bake, broil, and more, which outclasses 5- or 3-in-1 models. Its powerful 1000-watt microwave with a 12.4-inch turntable easily fits large meals like a whole chicken or 12-inch pizza. Safety features like a Two-Step Child Lock enhance family use. While competitors like Black+Decker and GE offer similar features, Toshiba’s combination of power, capacity, safety, and stylish design makes it the best overall value.
Best microwave oven brand in usa: Our Top 5 Picks
- TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, – Best Value
- BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven Air Fry, Combi, Bake, – Best Premium Option
- GE GCST10A1WSS 1.0 Cu Ft Convection Microwave Oven – Best Compact Microwave for Small Kitchens
- Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave, Air Fryer – Best Smart Microwave Oven
- GE JVM3160DFBB 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven – Best Overall Microwave Oven 2023
TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven,
- ✓ Versatile 8-in-1 functions
- ✓ Spacious capacity fits large items
- ✓ Easy-to-clean stainless steel
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Higher price point
| Microwave Power | 1000 watts output power |
| Input Power | 1600 watts |
| Internal Capacity | 14.0 x 13.2 x 9.5 inches (WxDxH) |
| Turntable Diameter | 12.4 inches |
| Functions | Microwave, air fry, bake (convection), broil (grill), combination cooking, low temperature, odor removal, defrost |
| Dimensions (External) | 20.6 x 18.0 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH) |
Imagine you’ve just pulled a freshly baked casserole out of the oven, only to realize you need to quickly reheat some leftovers. You glance over at your countertop and spot the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo, sitting sleekly with its black stainless steel finish.
The moment you open the door, you notice how spacious yet compact it feels — big enough to handle a whole roasted chicken or a 12-inch pizza, yet it doesn’t take up much space.
Starting with the control panel, the easy-to-use knobs and one-touch popcorn button make operation a breeze. The interior is stainless steel, which not only looks sharp but is also simple to wipe clean after cooking greasy foods.
The 12.4-inch turntable rotates smoothly, ensuring even heating, whether you’re air frying, baking, or microwaving.
What really impresses is the 8-in-1 multifunctionality. You can switch from microwave to air fry, bake, broil, or even do a combination of these with multistage cooking — perfect for busy days.
The healthy air fry feature is a game-changer, letting you enjoy crispy foods with less fat. Plus, the odor removal and low-temp options add extra versatility.
Safety is covered with a two-step child lock, which is reassuring if you’ve got little ones around. The microwave is powerful at 1000 watts and quick to heat, saving you time.
Overall, this appliance balances size, power, and multiple functions beautifully, making it a true kitchen workhorse.
BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven Air Fry, Combi, Bake,
- ✓ Versatile 5-in-1 functions
- ✓ User-friendly presets
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✕ Limited capacity for large items
- ✕ Convection features could be stronger
| Power | 900 watts |
| Cooking Functions | Microwave, Air Fryer, Grill/Convection (Combi), Bake, Roast |
| Auto Menus | 7 preset cooking options including Beverage, Vegetables, Oatmeal, Potato, Popcorn, Frozen Pizza |
| Air Fry Presets | 11 preset menus including French fries, chicken nuggets, fish sticks, vegetables, spring rolls |
| Cooking Levels | 10 adjustable levels |
| Control Lock | Child-lock feature activated by pressing stop for 3 seconds |
The first time I grabbed this BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven, I immediately noticed how solid and sleek it felt in my hand. The controls are surprisingly intuitive, and I was eager to see how versatile this little powerhouse really was.
I started by tossing in frozen French fries and pressed the air fry preset—within minutes, they came out crispy and golden, totally hassle-free.
What truly impressed me was how compact it is, yet it packs so many functions into one device. The microwave heats evenly, and the air fry feature really makes a difference for quick snacks.
The combination mode is perfect for those times I want to grill and bake without firing up the oven. Plus, the 10 cooking levels give you precise control, whether you’re reheating leftovers or roasting vegetables.
The preset menus are a lifesaver—no guesswork needed, just press and go. I also appreciated the speed feature—press start once for 30 seconds, again for another 30, which makes quick heating super simple.
The child-lock is a thoughtful addition, giving peace of mind in a busy household. Overall, this microwave handles everything I throw at it, saving me time and countertop clutter.
Of course, its small size means it might not replace a full oven for big batches. Also, some features like the convection baking are a bit limited compared to standalone appliances.
Still, for everyday use, it’s a versatile, reliable kitchen helper.
GE GCST10A1WSS 1.0 Cu Ft Convection Microwave Oven
- ✓ Versatile cooking modes
- ✓ Compact yet powerful
- ✓ Easy preset controls
- ✕ Slightly crowded control panel
- ✕ Limited interior space
| Capacity | 1.0 cubic feet (28.3 liters) |
| Power | 1050 watts |
| Dimensions | Compact size suitable for dorms, offices, and kitchens (exact dimensions not specified) |
| Cooking Modes | Microwave, convection, air fry, broil |
| Control Features | Preset controls for fries and nuggets, two-step child lock |
| Turntable | Glass rotating turntable for even cooking |
Unboxing the GE GCST10A1WSS, I immediately noticed how compact yet substantial it felt in my hand. The sleek stainless steel finish gives it a modern look that can blend into any kitchen or office space without feeling bulky.
As I set it on the countertop, I appreciated the thoughtful layout of the controls. The buttons for preset foods like fries and nuggets are intuitive, making quick snacks a breeze.
The glass turntable spins smoothly, ensuring even heating without any wobbling.
My first test was reheating leftovers, and I was pleasantly surprised by how evenly it warmed the food. The convection mode is a game-changer, browning my baked goods perfectly with a nice crispy edge.
The built-in air fryer impressed me, delivering healthier, crispy results on chicken wings in just minutes.
The broil function heated up quickly and seared steaks with a satisfying caramelized crust. I also liked the two-step child lock, which felt reassuring for a busy household.
The interior feels sturdy, and the elevated rack adds versatility for different types of cooking.
At $199.99, this microwave truly packs a punch for its size, combining multiple cooking modes in one compact unit. The only downside I found was that the control panel can be a little crowded when using all features at once, but overall, it’s a solid, versatile choice for anyone wanting more than just reheating.
Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave, Air Fryer
- ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 functionality
- ✓ Quiet operation and soft-close door
- ✓ Smart presets for easy use
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Larger footprint on counter
| Capacity | 1.1 cubic feet (32 liters) |
| Power | Microwave: 1200 Watts, Convection: 1400 Watts, Grill: 1100 Watts |
| Cooking Functions | Microwave, Convection Oven, Air Fryer, Grill, Fast Combi, Cook from Frozen |
| Control Features | 19 built-in smart presets, Shortcut panel, One-touch auto settings, Child Lock, Mute button |
| Additional Features | Inverter Power Smoothing Technology, Soft Close Quiet Door, Turntable Off option |
| Accessories Included | Combi Crisp Pan, Trivet |
As I reached for a frozen pizza in the freezer, my hand instinctively hovered over the Breville BMO870BSS Combi Wave 3-in-1. I pressed the “Fast Combi” button, and within minutes, I watched the crust turn golden and crispy while the cheese melted perfectly—faster than my oven ever managed.
This appliance feels surprisingly sturdy for a countertop unit, with a sleek stainless steel finish that looks modern and clean. The soft-close door is a small detail, but it makes opening and closing feel smooth and quiet, which I definitely appreciate during late-night snacks.
The interface is intuitive, with a handy shortcuts panel on the inside door. I love how I can melt chocolate or soften butter with just one tap, saving me time and hassle.
The combination of air frying, convection baking, and microwave functions means I can do almost any cooking task without switching devices.
The Inverter Microwave technology is a game-changer. It evenly defrosted my chicken without leaving cold spots or overcooking the edges.
Plus, the smart presets took the guesswork out of reheating leftovers, ensuring they came out fresh and tasty every time.
Cooking from frozen is a huge plus—no more waiting for things to thaw. And the quiet operation, combined with the child lock, makes it perfect for busy households.
Honestly, this single appliance has cut my cooking time and clutter in the kitchen significantly.
Sure, it’s a bit pricey, but the versatility and efficiency make it worth the investment. It’s like having a mini kitchen in one sleek, smart device that does it all.
GE JVM3160DFBB 1.6 Cu. Ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Spacious interior
- ✓ Easy filter replacement
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Basic keypad layout
| Capacity | 1.6 cubic feet |
| Power | 1000 Watts (IEC-705 test procedure) |
| Venting System | Two-speed, 300 CFM |
| Control Features | Turntable On/Off, Auto and Time Defrost, Convenience Cooking Controls |
| Filter Replacement | Charcoal odor filter for behind-the-door grille |
| Dimensions | Standard over-the-range microwave size (exact dimensions not specified) |
The first thing that catches your eye with this GE JVM3160DFBB microwave is its sleek black finish, but what really stands out is how quietly it operates. The two-speed, 300-CFM venting system kicks in with barely a whisper, quickly clearing out steam and odors without disturbing your kitchen chatter.
The spacious 1.6 cubic foot capacity feels just right for family-sized meals or those big popcorn bowls. The turntable is smooth and sturdy, and you can turn it off if you want to use larger dishes that don’t spin.
I found the auto and manual defrost options straightforward, making reheating a breeze without guessing times.
The convenience controls are simple to navigate, even when you’re in a rush. The push buttons respond quickly, and the digital display is easy to read.
Replacing the charcoal filter behind the door was surprisingly simple—no tools needed, and it instantly freshens the air inside.
What impressed me most was how evenly it heats food, thanks to the 1000-watt power. It heats quickly, and the auto cook settings handle common tasks like popcorn or beverages effortlessly.
Plus, the included extended protection plan gives peace of mind for long-term use.
Overall, this microwave combines power, quiet operation, and user-friendly features in a stylish package. Whether you’re reheating leftovers or cooking fresh meals, it handles the job with ease, making it a reliable centerpiece in your kitchen.
What Are the Key Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Microwave Oven Brand?
When choosing the best microwave oven brand in the USA, several key factors should be considered to ensure you make a well-informed decision.
- Reliability: A brand’s reputation for reliability is crucial; it reflects how well their products perform over time without frequent breakdowns or issues. Brands known for their durability often have better customer satisfaction ratings and lower return rates.
- Features and Technology: The best microwave oven brands often incorporate advanced features such as inverter technology, sensor cooking, and smart controls. These features enhance cooking efficiency and convenience, making them highly desirable for modern kitchens.
- Price and Value: While some brands may offer premium models at higher prices, it’s essential to evaluate whether the features and performance justify the cost. Look for brands that provide a good balance between quality and price, ensuring you receive value for your investment.
- Customer Support and Warranty: A strong customer support system and a comprehensive warranty can significantly impact your experience with a microwave oven brand. Brands that offer reliable customer service and generous warranty policies tend to instill greater confidence in their products.
- Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient models can lead to long-term savings on utility bills, making it an important factor to consider. Reputable brands often provide energy-efficient options that meet or exceed government standards, helping you reduce your environmental footprint.
- Design and Size: The aesthetic appeal and size of the microwave should align with your kitchen layout and personal preferences. Brands that offer a variety of styles and sizes can accommodate different needs, ensuring a better fit in your cooking space.
- Reviews and Ratings: Customer reviews and expert ratings can provide insights into the performance and reliability of a brand’s microwave ovens. Researching feedback from multiple sources can help you gauge overall satisfaction and identify any common issues with specific models.
Which Are the Most Popular Microwave Oven Brands in the USA?
The most popular microwave oven brands in the USA include:
- Samsung: Known for its innovative technology and sleek designs, Samsung offers a wide range of microwave ovens that feature smart technology and advanced cooking options.
- LG: LG microwave ovens are recognized for their reliability and performance, often incorporating smart inverter technology for even cooking and heating.
- Panasonic: Panasonic is famous for its high-quality microwaves, especially those featuring inverter technology that allows for precise temperature control and consistent cooking results.
- Whirlpool: Whirlpool is a trusted name in kitchen appliances, providing a variety of microwave models that emphasize user-friendly features and solid performance.
- Bosch: Bosch is known for its premium kitchen appliances, and their microwave ovens are no exception, offering stylish designs and efficient cooking capabilities.
- GE Appliances: General Electric (GE) provides a range of dependable microwave ovens, focusing on practicality and innovative features that cater to everyday cooking needs.
Samsung microwave ovens are designed with cutting-edge technology, featuring smart connectivity options that allow users to control their appliances remotely. Their sleek and modern designs complement any kitchen aesthetic, making them a popular choice among consumers.
LG’s microwave ovens stand out due to their smart inverter technology, which ensures food is heated evenly without cold spots. They also offer a variety of sizes and styles, making it easy for customers to find a model that fits their specific kitchen and cooking needs.
Panasonic’s reputation for high-quality appliances is reinforced by their microwave ovens, which utilize inverter technology to provide consistent and precise cooking. This innovation allows for better defrosting and cooking, making them a favorite among home cooks.
Whirlpool offers a selection of microwave ovens that focus on user-friendly features, such as sensor cooking and easy-to-clean interiors. Their reliable performance and solid customer service reputation make them a go-to option for many households.
Bosch is synonymous with quality, and their microwave ovens are designed with both performance and aesthetics in mind. They often include advanced features like convection cooking, which enhances their versatility in the kitchen.
GE Appliances has a long-standing reputation for quality and innovation, providing a range of microwave ovens that include features like sensor cooking and easy microwave-to-oven transitions. Their commitment to practicality ensures that their products meet the needs of everyday users.
How Do Innovative Features Compare Among Top Microwave Brands?
| Brand | Innovative Features | Price Range | Energy Efficiency Rating | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Panasonic | Smart cooking with inverter technology, sensor cooking, voice control | $100 – $200 | Energy Star Certified | 1 year limited warranty |
| Samsung | Inverter technology for even cooking, compact design, ceramic enamel interior | $150 – $250 | Energy Star Certified | 1 year limited warranty |
| LG | Steam cooking feature, eco mode for energy savings, smart diagnosis | $120 – $220 | Energy Star Certified | 1 year limited warranty |
| Breville | Automatic sensor cooking, easy clean interior, LCD display | $130 – $230 | Energy Star Certified | 1 year limited warranty |
Which Brands Are Known for Their Reliability and Build Quality?
Some of the best microwave oven brands in the USA known for their reliability and build quality include:
- Panasonic: Renowned for their inverter technology, Panasonic microwaves provide precise cooking and defrosting capabilities. They are often praised for their sleek designs and even cooking results, making them a popular choice among consumers.
- Breville: Known for their premium appliances, Breville offers microwaves that combine stylish designs with innovative features. Their models often include smart settings and sensor technology, ensuring optimal cooking performance and user convenience.
- Whirlpool: A long-standing brand in the appliance industry, Whirlpool microwaves are appreciated for their durability and user-friendly designs. They feature a variety of sizes and styles, catering to different kitchen needs while maintaining a reputation for solid performance.
- GE Appliances: General Electric microwaves are known for their reliability and advanced features. They often come with easy-to-use controls and useful presets, making them a favorite for families looking for convenience and performance.
- Samsung: Samsung incorporates modern technology into their microwave ovens, offering models with smart features and sleek aesthetics. Their microwaves typically boast high wattage and quick cooking times, appealing to tech-savvy consumers.
What Kind of Customer Support Can You Expect from Different Microwave Brands?
The kind of customer support you can expect varies significantly across different microwave brands.
- Panasonic: Known for their high-quality microwaves, Panasonic offers comprehensive customer support, including a responsive call center and extensive online resources.
- Breville: Breville provides excellent customer service with a focus on customer satisfaction, offering live chat support and detailed product manuals that are easily accessible online.
- Samsung: Samsung’s customer support includes a variety of channels such as phone, chat, and social media, along with a user-friendly website that features troubleshooting guides and FAQs.
- LG: LG is recognized for its robust customer support system, which includes a dedicated service network and a warranty program that is often praised by consumers for its responsiveness.
- Whirlpool: Whirlpool offers solid customer support, with a helpful online portal for service requests and a well-established network for in-home repairs, ensuring users can get assistance when needed.
- GE Appliances: GE provides reliable customer support that includes a mix of phone assistance and extensive online resources, such as instructional videos and detailed FAQs that help resolve common issues.
Panasonic has a reputation for producing durable microwaves and backs this up with a customer service team that is accessible and knowledgeable. They offer various support channels, including email and phone, ensuring that users can seek assistance easily.
Breville, specializing in premium kitchen appliances, stands out for its commitment to customer service, featuring live chat options and personalized support to resolve inquiries efficiently. Their online product manuals are detailed, aiding customers in troubleshooting and maximizing their microwave’s functionality.
Samsung’s customer support is extensive, allowing users to choose from multiple contact methods, including social media platforms. With a well-structured online presence, they provide a wealth of troubleshooting articles that can help users self-diagnose issues before seeking direct help.
LG’s customer service is often highlighted for its effectiveness, with a dedicated team that handles inquiries promptly. Their warranty program is frequently noted for its thoroughness, which adds an extra layer of reassurance for customers making a purchase.
Whirlpool’s approach to customer support is straightforward, featuring a user-friendly online service request system that simplifies the process for users needing repairs. Their widespread service network ensures that help is usually just a call away.
GE Appliances combines traditional customer service with modern digital support, offering phone assistance alongside a comprehensive online resource library. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in their proactive support strategies, which aim to minimize downtime for users experiencing issues.
What Price Points Do Various Microwave Oven Brands Cover?
The price points for various microwave oven brands in the USA vary widely, catering to different budgets and preferences.
- Panasonic: Panasonic microwaves typically range from $100 to $500, depending on the model and features. Their inverter technology offers precise cooking and defrosting, making them popular among users who value quality and performance.
- Samsung: Samsung microwaves are generally priced between $150 and $600. They are known for their innovative features, such as smart technology and sleek designs, appealing to tech-savvy consumers looking for modern kitchen appliances.
- LG: LG offers microwaves that fall within the $120 to $700 range. Their models often include smart inverter technology and various cooking presets, which enhance cooking flexibility and ensure even heating.
- Whirlpool: Whirlpool’s microwave ovens typically cost between $100 and $500. They focus on user-friendly designs and reliable performance, making them a trusted choice for families and everyday cooking needs.
- GE (General Electric): Prices for GE microwaves generally range from $150 to $800. Known for their durability and various size options, GE microwaves offer both countertop and built-in models, catering to diverse kitchen layouts.
- Bosch: Bosch microwaves are on the higher end, priced from $300 to $1,200. They are often praised for their premium build quality and sleek European designs, appealing to consumers looking for luxury kitchen appliances.
- Sharp: Sharp offers microwaves typically priced between $100 and $500. They are recognized for their high-quality countertop models and innovations in microwave technology, such as sensor cooking and easy-to-use controls.
- Toshiba: Toshiba’s microwaves are budget-friendly, usually priced between $70 and $300. They provide good value for money with a variety of features, making them a popular choice for those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality.
How Do Consumer Reviews Reflect the Quality of the Best Microwave Brands?
Consumer reviews serve as a significant indicator of the quality of the best microwave brands in the USA, showcasing user experiences and satisfaction levels.
- Performance: Reviews often highlight how well a microwave heats and cooks food, which is a critical factor for consumers. Customers typically comment on the evenness of cooking, speed, and any specific features like sensor cooking that enhance performance.
- Reliability: Many reviews touch upon the durability and lifespan of the microwave. Users frequently report on their experiences with breakdowns or repairs, helping potential buyers gauge which brands consistently produce dependable appliances.
- Ease of Use: Consumer feedback frequently discusses the user interface and ease of operation. Customers appreciate intuitive controls and clear displays, which can significantly affect their overall satisfaction with the product.
- Design and Size: Reviews often mention the aesthetic appeal and size of the microwave, as these factors can influence a buyer’s choice. Consumers look for models that fit their kitchen decor and space requirements while also considering practical aspects like capacity.
- Customer Service: Many reviews reflect on the quality of customer support provided by the brand. Positive experiences with warranty claims, returns, and technical support can enhance a brand’s reputation, while negative experiences can deter potential buyers.
- Price vs. Value: Reviews often evaluate whether the microwave provides good value for its price. Consumers assess features, performance, and durability in relation to cost, influencing their perception of which brands offer the best overall value.
What Trends Are Emerging Among Microwave Oven Brands in Modern Kitchen Design?
Multi-functionality in microwave ovens is increasingly sought after, as consumers look for appliances that can do more than just heat food. Many new models combine microwave technology with convection or grilling features, enabling users to bake, roast, and crisp food, making them versatile kitchen companions.
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