Best Smart Microwaves: Top Picks for 2023

Smart microwaves have come a long way in recent years, transforming from a simple kitchen appliance for reheating leftovers to an advanced tool for quick and efficient meal preparation. With growing demand for multitasking, time-saving appliances, smart microwaves cater to modern kitchens by offering Wi-Fi connectivity, voice control, and versatile cooking capabilities.

Among the numerous options available, choosing the best smart microwave can be a game-changer for your culinary endeavors. Crucial factors to consider include compatibility with smart home systems, size, power, and additional features like inverter technology and humidity sensors. A smart microwave should ideally come with an easy-to-use interface, energy efficiency, and a sleek design that complements your kitchen’s aesthetic.

Knowing your requirements is key when selecting a smart microwave; this means considering the available counter space, your budget, and cooking preferences. While some prefer a compact model for basic tasks, others may need advanced features such as convection cooking or air frying capabilities.

To help you make an informed decision, we have spent countless hours researching and testing the best smart microwaves available on the market. Whether you’re looking for a luxury smart microwave, a built in microwave or an appliance to complement your convection oven, our goal is to help you find the perfect appliance that makes meal preparation both enjoyable and efficient.

Best Smart Microwaves

We have compiled a list of the best smart microwaves available, ensuring you find the perfect addition to your modern kitchen. Check out our top picks below!

Toshiba Smart Countertop Microwave

This Toshiba Smart Countertop Microwave is a reliable choice for those seeking functionality, convenience, and efficiency.

Pros

• Hands-free voice operation and app control
• Built-in humidity sensor for optimal cooking
• Eco-friendly and mute function features

Cons

• Limited compatibility of Alexa in some regions
• Bulky size may not suit all kitchen spaces
• Additional features might require a learning curve

We recently tested the Toshiba ML-EM34P(SS) Smart Countertop Microwave and found it extremely user-friendly. The integration with Alexa and the option to control it via a mobile app makes it a modern addition to any kitchen, providing hands-free operation.

The built-in humidity sensor impressed us as it ensures our dishes retain their texture and taste by automatically adjusting the cooking power. This microwave is also eco-friendly, with an energy-saving mode and an LED cavity light to reduce energy consumption. Additionally, the mute function lets you cook without disturbing your family or roommates with the usual beeping noise.

However, we discovered that the compatibility of Alexa is limited in some regions, which may be a drawback for potential buyers. The microwave’s size also leans towards being slightly bulky. While this provides a generous 1.3 cubic feet of cooking space, it might not suit smaller kitchens. Lastly, we found that when using all of the microwave’s additional features, there might be a slight learning curve for some users.

In conclusion, the Toshiba Smart Countertop Microwave is an excellent option for those who value hands-free operation and smart features. Its eco-friendly and mute functions make it practical and considerate for modern-day living. While there may be some limitations in its size and international compatibility, this microwave’s advantages far outweigh any drawbacks.

GE Smart Countertop Microwave Oven

This GE Smart Microwave is a must-have for those seeking efficiency and convenience in their kitchen, with the added bonus of voice control.

Pros

• Voice control with Alexa and Google Assistant
• Scan-to-Cook Technology
• Space-saving design

Cons

• Control panel can be difficult to read
• Initial setup may be challenging
• Loud operation for some users

The GE Smart Countertop Microwave Oven provides a seamless cooking experience right on your kitchen countertop. With its hands-free voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant, we find it easy to adjust cook times and power levels without even touching the microwave.

The standout feature is the Scan-to-Cook technology, which eliminates guesswork by scanning a frozen food’s barcode to set the appropriate cooking time and power level automatically. This feature has saved us so much time, especially when preparing our favorite frozen meals.

The microwave does have some drawbacks. The control panel lettering is on the darker side, making it difficult to read and navigate. We also found its initial setup to be a bit challenging due to outdated directions; however, once set up, the microwave works well.

Another minor issue is the microwave’s loud operation, which might bother some users. Despite these issues, we believe the GE Smart Countertop Microwave Oven is an excellent addition to any kitchen, offering unparalleled convenience and smart features that make the cooking process more streamlined.

Toshiba ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven

The Toshiba ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven is a reliable and efficient appliance, perfect for those looking for quick and easy meal prep solutions.

Pros

• Smart sensor function with 6 auto menus
• Large 1.6 cu. ft. capacity with 13.6″ turntable
• Position memory turntable for safer use

Cons

• Control panel may be difficult to read for some users
• Instruction manual could be better written
• No popcorn button

We were impressed by the Toshiba ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven as it delivered consistent, even cooking thanks to its smart sensor function with 6 auto menus. The large 1.6 cu. ft. capacity and 13.6″ turntable can accommodate sizable dishes or meals, making it an ideal appliance for families. Another feature we appreciated is the position memory turntable, which resets to its initial position after each use for added safety and convenience.

However, we did notice that the control panel might be challenging for some users to read, and the instruction manual could use some improvement in terms of clarity. Also, for those fond of the convenience that comes with a popcorn button, do note that this Toshiba model does not have one.

Overall, despite these minor drawbacks, the Toshiba ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven is an efficient, feature-rich appliance that we recommend to anyone in need of a reliable microwave that simplifies meal preparation.

Panasonic NN-SV79MS Smart Microwave

Panasonic NN-SV79MS is the perfect smart microwave for those seeking an efficient and convenient cooking experience with Alexa integration.

Pros

• Easy voice control with Alexa and 100+ voice commands
• Genius Sensor for automatic power and cooking time adjustments
• Spacious interior combined with a sleek stainless steel design

Cons

• Setting up the microwave can be challenging
• Not every command is intuitive
• Time-zone bug occasionally affects the display time

Panasonic NN-SV79MS Smart Microwave Oven is a truly hands-free experience. With over 100 voice commands and compatibility with Alexa, we found that this oven makes cooking and reheating food significantly easier. Commands like “melt 4oz of butter” or “reheat leftovers” ensure the microwave auto-adjusts power and time to cook with precision.

Inverter technology ensures even cooking from edges to center, backed by 1200 watts of power. The microwave contains features such as Turbo Defrost, delay start, quick 30-Sec, and preset auto cook menu items. Most notably, the built-in Genius Sensor automatically adjusts power and cooking times by sensing heat and steam, making certain that your food is prepared just right.

This microwave looks as good as it performs. The premium stainless steel face and dial control give it a modern and sleek appearance. It has a large 1.4 cu ft interior capacity and a small exterior footprint, making it suitable for handling family meals without taking up excessive countertop space.

On the other hand, the setup process can be challenging and may take some time to get accustomed to. A few commands might be difficult to learn, and there’s an occasional time-zone bug that affects the displayed time. However, these minor drawbacks do not overshadow the overall quality and convenience this smart microwave offers, making it an ideal purchase for those seeking a tech-savvy cooking experience.

Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave

We believe the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS is a great purchase for those seeking a stylish, efficient, and versatile countertop microwave.

Pros

• Stylish appearance with large interior
• Pre-programmed sensor menu for optimized heating
• Mute function for a quieter experience

Cons

• Slightly longer preheat times
• Some display issues reported
• Might be challenging to read button labels for some users

After using the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave, we were quickly impressed with its sleek black stainless steel exterior. It not only looks good in any kitchen, but it also offers ample space for its size, easily fitting a 12-inch pizza. The large interior is complimented by a 1.2 cubic feet capacity and a removable 12.4-inch turntable for easy cleaning.

One of our favorite features is the pre-programmed sensor menu, which optimizes the heating for popular food items such as pizza, potatoes, and vegetables. With ten power settings going up to 1100 watts, this microwave provides great versatility in cooking times and power levels. The large digital display is clear and easy to read, featuring a clock, countdown timer, and remaining cooking time. The ability to program up to three favorite time and power combinations adds to its user-friendly design.

However, we noticed a minor downside in the slightly longer preheat times when compared to a standalone air fryer. Also, the button labels can be difficult to read for some users, especially if the microwave is positioned at waist level or higher. Additionally, a few customers reported issues with parts of the display not lighting up correctly. This should not be a dealbreaker, but it’s essential to be aware of potential display problems .

Overall, the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave offers excellent value and functionality to those seeking a smart and stylish microwave. The pros certainly outweigh the cons, and with its large interior, sensor menu, and mute function, it brings convenience and style to any kitchen setup.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best smart microwave, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the ideal appliance for your needs. In this buying guide, we will outline the features to consider when choosing the perfect smart microwave.

Firstly, consider the size and capacity of the smart microwave. This will depend on your kitchen space and your cooking needs. Larger microwaves can accommodate bigger dishes, while smaller ones are more suitable for limited spaces or smaller households.

Another important feature to consider is the power output. This is measured in watts, and it determines the appliance’s cooking efficiency and speed. Generally, microwaves with higher wattage (1000W and above) cook food faster and more evenly than those with lower power output.

The preset cooking options available on the smart microwave can be a significant determining factor. These options make it convenient to cook or reheat various types of food by offering pre-programmed cooking times and power levels. Look for a microwave with a range of preset options that cater to your cooking needs and preferences.

Connectivity and compatibility are key aspects to consider in a smart microwave. Check if the appliance is compatible with your preferred smart home system, such as Alexa, Google Assistant, or other platforms. The connectivity should allow you to control the microwave remotely, set cooking times, and monitor the appliance using your smartphone or voice commands.

Lastly, examine the ease of use and maintenance. A user-friendly interface with intuitive controls is essential for a pleasant cooking experience. Look for straightforward controls and clear displays. Additionally, ensure the microwave has a removable turntable and easy-to-clean surfaces, making the cleaning process more manageable.

Remember to carefully weigh these features and consider your specific needs to select the best smart microwave for your home. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which features should I consider when buying a smart microwave?

When choosing a smart microwave, consider features such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, voice assistant compatibility (e.g., Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant), and cooking presets or customization options. Additional factors include size, wattage, sensor cooking technology, and defrosting options.

How do smart microwaves compare with traditional microwaves?

Smart microwaves offer advanced features and enhanced convenience compared to traditional microwaves. They can be controlled via smartphone apps or voice commands, allowing for hands-free operation and remote monitoring. Additionally, smart microwaves often include cooking presets and sensor technology for more accurate and efficient cooking times.

What are some reputable brands for smart microwaves?

Some well-known brands for smart microwaves include Panasonic, GE, Samsung, Whirlpool, Sharp, and LG. Each brand offers a range of models with varying features and price points, so it’s essential to compare options before making a decision.

How do smart inverter microwaves differ from traditional ones?

Smart inverter microwaves provide consistent microwave energy, allowing for precise temperature control and more even cooking results. Compared to traditional microwaves, which use on-and-off power cycles, smart inverter microwaves can cook food faster, evenly, and more gently. This can help retain food’s nutrients, texture, and flavor.

What are some added benefits of using a smart microwave?

Smart microwaves offer several additional benefits. Apart from the convenience of remote and voice control, they often include more accurate cooking presets and customization options. Their sensor technology can help reduce food waste by preventing overcooking or undercooking. Moreover, smart microwaves can integrate with your smart home ecosystem, allowing for seamless automation and centralization of your kitchen appliances.