Best overall
Panasonic NN-SN686S Genius Sensor Inverter
~$170–$220 at time of writing
What we like
- Wirecutter's top pick: most even heating
- Accurate sensor cooking
Keep in mind
- No instant-start buttons
Best budget
Toshiba EM131A5C
~$110–$140 at time of writing
What we like
- Wirecutter's budget pick
- Instant-start buttons and a handle
Keep in mind
- Slower, less even than inverter models
Best inverter alternative
Panasonic NN-SN67KS
~$170–$200 at time of writing
What we like
- Same 1.2 cu ft, 1,200 W inverter design as our #1
- Sensor cooking
Keep in mind
- ATK found it can overheat delicate foods
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Best premium
Breville Combi Wave 3 in 1
~$300–$350 at time of writing
What we like
- Microwave, air fryer and convection oven in one
Keep in mind
- Expensive
Best multi-cooker
Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 (NN-CD87KS)
~$300–$400 at time of writing
What we like
- Microwave, air fryer, convection and broil
Keep in mind
- Pricey, bulky
Best sensor value
Toshiba ML-EM34P(SS) Smart Sensor
~$150–$180 at time of writing
What we like
- Sensor cooking at a mid price
Keep in mind
- Larger footprint
Best large countertop
LG NeoChef Smart Inverter
~$200–$250 at time of writing
What we like
- Spacious, even inverter heating
Keep in mind
- Heavy
Best over-the-range
GE JVM3160RFSS Over-the-Range
~$250–$350 at time of writing
What we like
- Frees counter space; vent fan and light
Keep in mind
- Needs installation
Best small
Black+Decker EM720CB7 (0.7 cu ft)
~$70–$90 at time of writing
What we like
- Compact and cheap for dorms and small kitchens
Keep in mind
- Small turntable
Best smart microwave
Amazon Basics Microwave (works with Alexa)
~$80–$110 at time of writing
What we like
- Voice control with an Alexa device
Keep in mind
- Small 0.7 cu ft capacity
Compare all 10
| # | Product | Best for | Price* | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Panasonic NN-SN686S Genius Sensor Inverter | Best overall | ~$170–$220 | — |
| 2 | Toshiba EM131A5C | Best budget | ~$110–$140 | — |
| 3 | Panasonic NN-SN67KS | Best inverter alternative | ~$170–$200 | — |
| 4 | Breville Combi Wave 3 in 1 | Best premium | ~$300–$350 | — |
| 5 | Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 (NN-CD87KS) | Best multi-cooker | ~$300–$400 | — |
| 6 | Toshiba ML-EM34P(SS) Smart Sensor | Best sensor value | ~$150–$180 | — |
| 7 | LG NeoChef Smart Inverter | Best large countertop | ~$200–$250 | — |
| 8 | GE JVM3160RFSS Over-the-Range | Best over-the-range | ~$250–$350 | — |
| 9 | Black+Decker EM720CB7 (0.7 cu ft) | Best small | ~$70–$90 | — |
| 10 | Amazon Basics Microwave (works with Alexa) | Best smart microwave | ~$80–$110 | — |
*Approximate, at time of writing. Rating shown only where a sourced rating was found.
Sources consulted: Wirecutter's best microwave guide (2026) and America's Test Kitchen microwave testing, plus manufacturer specs. Prices are approximate and change often; see today's price on Amazon. Prices change often; check the retailer. Product photos are official brand press images (credited) where we have permission; otherwise we show a photo of the product type, clearly labeled Illustrative.
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Microwaves: frequently asked questions
What is the best microwave in 2026?
Our #1 pick is the Panasonic NN-SN686S Genius Sensor Inverter (best overall), at ~$170–$220 at time of writing. Wirecutter's top pick: most even heating.
What is the best budget microwave?
The Toshiba EM131A5C is our best budget pick at ~$110–$140 at time of writing. It ranks #2 of 10.
What is the best premium microwave?
The Breville Combi Wave 3 in 1 is our premium pick at ~$300–$350 at time of writing. It ranks #4 of 10.
How did Rank the Rest rank these microwaves?
We compared published expert testing, public review data and manufacturer specs. We did not hands-on test these products, we never invent ratings, and affiliate commissions never change the order.
Are the prices current?
Prices are approximate as of October 14, 2026 and change often, especially during sales. Use the price buttons to see today's price at the retailer.
