Compare Countertop Microwaves Side by Side

It's the usable interior volume of the microwave cavity. A 0.7 cu. ft. unit fits a standard dinner plate but struggles with larger bowls or a 9x13 baking dish. Models at 1.6 cu. ft. and above handle most standard cookware. If you regularly heat large containers or family-sized portions, prioritize capacity alongside wattage.

Higher wattage means faster, more even heating, which matters most for dense foods like meats and frozen meals. For reheating leftovers or boiling water, the difference between 900 and 1,200 watts is noticeable. That said, a higher-watt model costs more and uses more electricity per session, so it's worth matching wattage to how you actually cook.

Dial controls are mechanical, you turn a knob to set time and power. They're straightforward and tend to be more durable over time. Touchpad controls give you precise time entry and often unlock sensor cooking modes. Neither is objectively better; it comes down to whether you prefer the tactile feel of a dial or the precision of a keypad.

The turntable diameter sets the maximum footprint for any dish you place inside. A 10-inch turntable limits you to plates that fit within that circle. If the dish is wider than the turntable, it won't rotate properly, which leads to uneven heating. Always check turntable size against the dishes you use most.

Every spec displayed here is sourced from the manufacturer's published product data, the same figures listed on the brand's official site or included in the product documentation. We do not adjust, estimate, or supplement these numbers. If a spec is missing for a model, it means the manufacturer has not published that data.