7 Best Simple Microwave Ovens of 2025

This powerhouse performer redefines what a simple microwave should be—smart, spacious, and surprisingly intuitive. With 1000 watts of cooking power and a 12.4-inch removable turntable, it handles everything from family-sized plates to bulky leftovers without rotating hiccups. The real game-changer? Its Smart Humidity Sensor tech that automatically adjusts cooking time and power, eliminating guesswork and preventing the dreaded soggy or scorched meal. For users tired of standing guard over their microwave, this model delivers true set-and-forget convenience with 12 auto menus tailored to everyday staples.

In real-world testing, the Toshiba shines when reheating dense foods like lasagna or steaming frozen vegetables—the humidity sensor consistently stops cooking at peak moisture, preserving texture and flavor. The 1.2 cu ft cavity fits most dinner plates and medium bowls with room to spare, making it ideal for small households or busy kitchens. However, the exterior footprint is slightly larger than average, so it may stretch counter space in compact dorms or studio apartments. While the digital interface is responsive, first-time users might need a quick glance at the manual to unlock features like ECO mode or mute function.

Compared to stripped-down budget models, this Toshiba positions itself as the premium pick for those who want simplicity with intelligence. It doesn’t try to air fry or bake, but instead perfects the core microwave experience better than any other in the lineup. It outperforms the Chefman 1.1 cu ft model in sensor accuracy and offers more presets than the COMFEE’, making it ideal for families or anyone who values consistent results. For the balance of smart features, power, and reliability, it surpasses multi-function rivals that sacrifice microwave performance for bells and whistles.

If quiet, no-fuss operation is your top priority, the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM is a seriously peaceful solution for dorms, offices, or late-night snacks. Despite its modest 700 watts and 0.7 cu ft capacity, this microwave punches above its weight with thoughtful touches like one-touch express cooking and a true mute function that silences all beeps with a three-second press. The easy auto-cook buttons for popcorn, pizza, and beverages eliminate guesswork, while the ECO mode cuts standby power by 50%, appealing to eco-conscious users. It’s the kind of appliance that just works—no drama, no noise, no clutter.

During testing, the COMFEE’ proved reliable for light-duty tasks: reheating coffee, defrosting small portions, and popping microwave popcorn with consistent results. The +30 seconds button is a small but brilliant feature for quick top-ups without reprogramming. However, its lower wattage means it struggles with thicker foods—reheating a dense casserole took noticeably longer than in 1000W models and resulted in uneven heat distribution. The compact interior also limits plate size, making it less ideal for full dinner plates. Still, for solo users or secondary kitchens, it’s impressively efficient.

When stacked against the Chefman 0.7 cu ft model, the COMFEE’ wins on quiet operation and intuitive design, though it lacks memory function and a sleek stainless finish. It’s not built for large families or heavy use, but for students, bachelors, or office break rooms, it delivers essential performance in a whisper-quiet package. While the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 offers a push-button door and similar wattage, the COMFEE’ edges ahead with smoother presets and a cleaner button layout. For simplicity without sacrifice, this is the go-to.

The Chefman 1.1 cu ft microwave is a feature-packed sweet spot between power, convenience, and wallet-friendliness. Packing 1000 watts into a surprisingly compact frame, it offers the same output as full-size models but fits where others won’t. What sets it apart is the memory function—a rare gem in this category—that lets you save favorite settings for one-touch reheating of coffee, oatmeal, or leftovers. Combined with 6 auto menus and 10 power levels, it gives users precise control without complexity. The +30 second quick start and mute option make it perfect for apartments or dorms where noise and speed matter.

Real-world use confirms its strength in daily repetition tasks: warming meals, defrosting meat, or cooking instant noodles. The 1.1 cu ft interior accommodates most 10-inch plates and standard mugs, though oversized bowls may require careful placement. Its stainless steel finish resists fingerprints better than cheaper models, and the removable turntable is dishwasher-safe for hassle-free cleaning. That said, the touchpad can be overly sensitive, occasionally registering accidental presses. And while it handles most foods well, dense items like baked potatoes take longer than in larger 1.2 cu ft models.

Compared to the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS, it trades a slightly smaller cavity and lacks humidity-sensing tech, but delivers 90% of the performance at a lower cost. It outshines the COMFEE’ in power and versatility while beating the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 in pure microwave reliability. For value seekers who want smart features without paying premium, this Chefman is the standout. It’s the kind of microwave that makes you wonder why more budget models don’t include a memory function.

For those tight on space but not on standards, the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) is a compact marvel that brings full-featured performance to tiny kitchens. With 900 watts of power and an 11-level power system, it offers finer control than most mini microwaves, making it ideal for delicate tasks like melting chocolate or simmering sauces. The 6 preset menus and one-touch start simplify daily use, while the 10.6-inch turntable ensures even heating across most plates. Its standout feature? A true mute function activated by holding button “8”—a rare detail in this size class.

In practice, this microwave excels in dorms, RVs, and studio apartments where every inch counts. The 0.9 cu ft cavity fits standard takeout containers and most cereal bowls, though large dinner plates may hang over the edges. Reheating is quick and consistent, though not as fast as 1000W models—expect an extra 30–45 seconds for a full meal. The LED lighting helps monitor food without opening the door, and the two-step child lock adds safety without complicating operation. Still, the lower wattage means it’s not ideal for frequent cooking from raw ingredients.

When compared to the Chefman 0.7 cu ft model, the Toshiba offers more power, more space, and better cooking precision, making it a smarter long-term investment. It doesn’t have the memory function of its bigger Chefman sibling, but it beats the BLACK+DECKER ES9P032NA in microwave-only efficiency by avoiding the compromises of multi-function design. For small-space dwellers who want reliability without clutter, this Toshiba hits the sweet spot. It’s smaller than most, but never underpowered.

The Chefman 0.7 cu ft microwave is the budget king—a no-frills, no-fail option for anyone who wants basic microwave functions without breaking the bank. Don’t let its 700 watts and tiny footprint fool you: it packs 10 power levels, 6 presets, and a surprisingly responsive digital interface that makes reheating popcorn or defrosting chicken effortless. The +30 seconds button is a daily lifesaver, and the mute function ensures quiet mornings or late-night snacks won’t disturb others. For students or first-time renters, it’s the ultimate starter microwave.

Testing reveals it’s best suited for light, single-serving tasks: warming soup, melting butter, or heating a mug of tea. It handles frozen snacks well, though full dinners take longer and may require mid-cycle stirring for even heat. The compact design fits perfectly on narrow shelves or under cabinets, and the black finish hides smudges better than stainless steel. The dishwasher-safe turntable is a rare plus at this price, but the interior lighting is dim, making it hard to see food without opening the door.

Against the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM, it’s nearly identical in size and power but wins with a sleeker design and memory function—a feature the COMFEE’ lacks. While the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 offers a push-button door, this Chefman counters with better preset variety and mute convenience. It’s not built for heavy use, but for tight budgets and tight spaces, it delivers more features than expected. For entry-level simplicity with smart touches, it’s hard to beat.

The BLACK+DECKER ES9P032NA isn’t just a microwave—it’s a mini kitchen powerhouse that replaces multiple appliances with its 5-in-1 functionality: microwave, air fry, bake, roast, and convection. With 900 watts of microwave power and 11 dedicated air fry presets, it’s designed for users who want crispy fries, golden chicken wings, or baked potatoes without firing up the oven. The combi mode (grill + convection) delivers results that mimic traditional baking, all in a 0.9 cu ft cavity that fits on most countertops. For small kitchens or minimalist cooks, it’s a space-saving revolution.

In real use, the air fry function impresses—frozen fries come out golden and crunchy, rivaling full-size air fryers. The direct 30-second start is perfect for quick reheating, and the 7 auto microwave menus handle basics like popcorn and veggies with ease. However, the learning curve is steeper: switching between modes requires menu navigation, and cooking times aren’t always intuitive. The cavity is also smaller than standard microwaves, limiting batch cooking. And while it multitasks well, pure microwave performance lags behind dedicated models like the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS.

Compared to the Chefman 1.1 cu ft, it trades microwave efficiency for versatility, making it ideal for those who prioritize air frying over speed. It’s pricier than basic models, but offers more cooking methods in one unit than any other in the lineup. For cooks who want variety and convenience, it’s a game-changer—though purists seeking only microwave simplicity may find it overcomplicated. It’s not the fastest microwave, but the most flexible.

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is the definition of straightforward simplicity—a no-nonsense microwave that gets the job done with zero fuss. With 700 watts of power and a 0.7 cu ft interior, it’s built for light-duty use, but its push-button door release and large LED display make it one of the most user-friendly models tested. The pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, pizza, and beverages eliminate guesswork, while the removable 10-inch turntable ensures even heating across most containers. For those who hate complicated menus, this microwave is a refreshing return to basics.

In daily use, it performs reliably for reheating leftovers, defrosting small items, and popping microwave snacks. The 30-second express cook is fast and intuitive, and the child safety lock adds peace of mind in homes with kids. However, the lower wattage means longer cook times—especially for dense foods—and the cavity can’t fit large plates. The interior light is bright, helping monitor food, but the plastic finish feels less durable than stainless steel models. It’s not designed for heavy use, but for secondary kitchens or occasional cooking, it’s perfectly capable.

Against the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM, it offers a more durable push-button door and similar wattage, but lacks ECO mode and mute function—two features that matter for eco and noise-conscious users. While the Chefman 0.7 cu ft model includes a memory function, this BLACK+DECKER wins with easier access and clearer display. For users who value ease of use over advanced features, it’s a solid, no-surprise workhorse. It’s simple by design, not by compromise.