Countertop Microwave Reviews - Best Microwaves - Good Housekeeping
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Steaming veggies, baking potatoes, reheating casseroles  they all happen two to five times faster in a microwave than on a range. In addition to the default High setting, microwaves often have preset programs for making popcorn, melting butter, and more. We evaluated 22 countertop units for performance and ease of use; these six zapped best. For tips on choosing the best microwave for your needs, check out our video.
1. GE Profile Spacemaker II (800 watts)
2. Panasonic NN-SN657S (1,300 watts)
3. Cuisinart Stainless Steel Microwave Oven (1,000 watts)
4. Sharp Carousel Microwave Oven (1,100 watts)
Offering good value, the Sharp Carousel Microwave Oven R-305KS ($110, 800-642-2122) very successfully baked potatoes, defrosted meat, and reheated a meal. Preprogrammed pads offer shortcuts for melting and more, but skip the disappointing "popcorn" setting  enter a time instead.
5. Sanyo EM-S6588S Microwave Oven (1,000 watts)
Our budget buy, this Sanyo Mid-Size Microwave Oven EM-S6588S ($90, 800-421-5013) earned solid scores overall, evenly heating, baking potatoes, and reheating leftovers. Preprogrammed pads are labeled for common foods  pizza, soup, etc.  though the popcorn setting is a weak point (bags don't fully pop).
6. Sanyo EM-C6786V (1,000 watts) $180
A microwave, convection oven, and grill in one, this Sanyo Microwave Oven with Convection and Grill EM-C6786V ($180, 800-421-5013) zaps evenly. Grilled burgers and a baked cake browned nicely, though no more quickly than in a conventional oven. The controls are hidden beneath the door  attractive, if tricky to use.