We’ve recommended a smaller version of this countertop microwave before and still stand by it. This 1.2 cubic foot Toshiba has the perfect combination of price, size and performance. It has all the features you need and more: presets for popcorn, pizza, and vegetables, a child lock, one-touch express buttons for one to six minutes, and a button for an additional 30 seconds. You can also adjust the power level from one to ten to a maximum of 1,100 watts, the ideal power for a wide variety of applications. Also, the higher the wattage, the faster the cooking time. The “soften/melt” preset for chocolate, butter and cheese runs at a lower power level so they don’t burn or get too hot.
We love the handle instead of the push button to open the door, which is more ergonomic. It has a mute button (press and hold 8 for five seconds) to turn off beeps and alerts at the end of cooking time. A smart sensor feature takes the guesswork out of reheating food – it measures the moisture in the food and automatically adjusts the time and power level. Some reviewers miss the beep that reminds you that food has been forgotten in the microwave. The device is available in elegant stainless steel or black stainless steel.
