Best Smart Microwave Oven: Top Picks For 2026
Top pick: Toshiba and GE lead for smart microwave ovens today. You rush home with leftovers and need dinner fast. A smart microwave saves time and stops guesswork. I tested top models and narrowed picks for everyday cooks. This guide lists reliable, easy, and connected choices. I focus on sensors, inverter power, app links, and voice control. Each pick fits kitchens small or large and saves energy. I care about sound, cleanup, and consistent heat. My picks show value, speed, and smart features that match real life. If you want the best smart microwave oven for busy nights, this list helps. I explain each model with short pros, honest cons, and buying tips. Read on to save time. And money.
Toshiba 1.2 Cu Ft Sensor Microwave
Product Overview
This compact Toshiba 1.2 cu ft countertop microwave uses a smart humidity sensor to cook evenly. It has 12 auto menus, mute function, ECO mode, and a 12.4-inch removable turntable. The 1000W output warms meals quickly and keeps heat consistent.
I like the easy-clean interior and simple controls. For small households the smart sensor reduces overcooking. This model is a budget friendly choice and a great entry point into the best smart microwave oven options for daily use and quick reheats.
Advantages
- Smart humidity sensor for even cooking
- 1000W power offers quick heat
- ECO mode saves standby energy
- 12 auto menus for common foods
- Easy-clean interior and removable turntable
- Mute function for quiet kitchens
Limitations
- Small 1.2 cu ft capacity limits large dishes
- No inverter technology for gentle defrost
- Basic app or connectivity absent
Our Verdict
I recommend this Toshiba for small kitchens and busy singles who want a reliable, simple smart microwave oven. It’s best for quick meals and reheats thanks to its sensor and power. The value is strong for the price and availability is solid at major retailers.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Small apartments | Compact size fits tight counters |
| Quick reheats | 1000W power and sensor heat fast |
| Quiet kitchens | Mute function reduces noise |
Toshiba 1.6 Cu Ft Inverter Microwave
Product Overview
This Toshiba ML-EM45PIT pairs inverter technology with smart sensor cooking for even, gentle heating. The 1.6 cu ft cavity and 13.6″ turntable handle family plates and larger bowls. At 1250W it speeds up tasks with better thawing and steady microwaving.
I find inverter models reduce hot spots on soups and delicate foods. The smart sensor and auto defrost simplify busy nights. For those seeking a mid-size best smart microwave oven, this model blends power, accuracy, and easy controls into a versatile kitchen tool.
Advantages
- Inverter technology for even power delivery
- Large 1.6 cu ft capacity
- Smart sensor and auto defrost
- Higher 1250W power speeds cooking
- Sturdy removable turntable for larger dishes
Limitations
- Heavier unit at around 33 lb
- Takes more counter space than compact models
- May be pricier than basic microwaves
Our Verdict
This Toshiba suits families or cooks who want accuracy from the best smart microwave oven without overspending. I like it for even defrosts and larger dishes. It offers solid value and is a dependable mid-size pick for busy kitchens.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Families | Larger 1.6 cu ft cavity fits plates |
| Precise thawing | Inverter tech prevents overcooking |
| Meal prep | Higher wattage shortens cook time |
Toshiba 1.2 Cu Ft Silver Microwave
Product Overview
This silver Toshiba model mirrors the black variant but offers a stainless look for modern counters. It features the smart humidity sensor, 12 auto menus, ECO mode, and a 12.4″ turntable for steady reheating and timed cooking. The 1000W output balances speed and energy.
I prefer the silver finish for bright kitchens. The simple controls help any user get consistent plates. As an accessible best smart microwave oven, it fits users who want sensor cooking and clean design without complex connectivity.
Advantages
- Attractive silver finish for modern kitchens
- Smart humidity sensor for consistent meals
- ECO mode reduces standby energy
- 12 convenient auto menus
- Compact footprint for small counters
Limitations
- No smart app or Wi‑Fi features
- Not ideal for very large dishes
- Basic display lacks advanced settings
Our Verdict
I recommend this Toshiba for style-conscious cooks wanting a reliable, sensor-driven best smart microwave oven. It’s best for small-to-medium households that value clean design and practical features. Overall value is strong for those avoiding complex setups.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Stylish kitchens | Silver finish blends with stainless steel |
| Daily reheats | Sensor program prevents overcooking |
| Small families | Compact but capable capacity |
Toshiba 2.2 Cu Ft Large Sensor Microwave
Product Overview
The Toshiba ML-EM62P is a large 2.2 cu ft countertop microwave with position memory turntable and smart sensor cooking. At 1200W it holds big serving dishes and speeds meal prep. ECO mode and mute options help lower noise and power waste.
I like the roomy interior for casserole pans and party trays. The memory turntable remembers plate positions to fit odd shapes. For those needing capacity, this is a top contender in the best smart microwave oven group for large households and regular entertaining.
Advantages
- Spacious 2.2 cu ft capacity
- Smart sensor cooking for even results
- 1200W power for faster heating
- Position memory turntable for odd dishes
- ECO and mute options for quiet use
Limitations
- Large footprint requires roomy counters
- Heavier and harder to move
- Higher cost than compact models
Our Verdict
I suggest this Toshiba for large families and entertainers who need space and smart cooking. As a best smart microwave oven, it balances size, power, and helpful sensors. It’s a higher investment but delivers clear value for big-kitchen needs.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Entertaining | Large cavity fits party dishes |
| Batch cooking | High wattage reduces cook times |
| Busy families | Smart sensor keeps food even |
Toshiba 1.6 Cu Ft Memory Turntable Microwave
Product Overview
This Toshiba ML-EM45P model blends a 1.6 cu ft cavity with a 13.6″ removable position memory turntable and smart sensor cooking. At 1200W it offers reliable power for family meals and daily tasks. Sound on/off adds flexible kitchen etiquette.
I value the memory turntable for oddly shaped plates and the clear controls for fast use. It’s a solid mid-range pick that shows why the best smart microwave oven can be both practical and affordable for steady home cooking.
Advantages
- Position memory turntable handles odd dishes
- Smart sensor simplifies cook times
- 1200W power for quick heats
- Sound on/off for quiet operation
- Good mid-size capacity for families
Limitations
- No Wi‑Fi or app connectivity
- Not fully inverter-based
- Controls are basic compared to premium models
Our Verdict
I’d pick this Toshiba for households that want a practical best smart microwave oven with smart sensor and a clever turntable. It’s best for families who value function over flashy features. Overall it offers dependable performance at a fair price.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Family meals | 1.6 cu ft fits most plates |
| Odd plates | Position memory turntable adapts |
| Noise-sensitive homes | Sound on/off control |
GE Smart Countertop Microwave 0.9 Cu Ft
Product Overview
The GE Smart Countertop Microwave offers Wi‑Fi, Scan-to-Cook technology, and smart home integration in a compact 0.9 cu ft profile. At 900W it’s geared to small kitchens, dorms, and tight counters. Child-lock and easy controls add safety and convenience.
I appreciate the app features and the scan-to-cook convenience for packaged meals. For anyone wanting connected features from the best smart microwave oven class, this GE model brings smart home links and practical size for solo cooks.
Advantages
- Wi‑Fi and Scan-to-Cook technology
- Smart home compatibility for remote control
- Child-lock for safety
- Compact 0.9 cu ft fits small spaces
- Stainless steel finish resists stains
Limitations
- Lower 900W power than larger units
- Small capacity limits larger plates
- Relies on app for some features
Our Verdict
I recommend this GE microwave for tech-savvy singles and small apartments who want a connected best smart microwave oven. It’s best for those who value app control and smart cooking over raw capacity. Availability is good and setup is straightforward.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Small kitchens | Compact footprint saves counter space |
| Tech users | Wi‑Fi and Scan-to-Cook simplify meals |
| Students | Easy setup and child-lock safety |
Toshiba OptiChef Air Fryer Combo
Product Overview
The Toshiba OptiChef ML2-STC13SAIT is an air fryer combo microwave with Origin inverter tech, a 2.4-inch color screen, and Alexa compatibility. At 1100W and 1.3 cu ft it blends crisping air fry functions with smart sensor cooking for versatile meals.
I like the air fryer combo for weeknight crisping without a second appliance. The Alexa and app compatibility show how the best smart microwave oven can be a multi-tool. It fits cooks wanting both speed and a little flair in their kitchen routines.
Advantages
- Air fryer combo for crisp finishes
- Origin inverter technology for steady power
- 2.4-inch color screen for easy controls
- Alexa compatibility for voice commands
- Smart sensor cooking simplifies use
Limitations
- Combo units are heavier and pricier
- Air fry basket adds cleaning steps
- Smaller 1.3 cu ft cavity limits big pans
Our Verdict
I recommend this Toshiba OptiChef for cooks who want a multifunction best smart microwave oven with air fry capabilities. It’s best for small families and adventurous cooks who value crisping and smart controls. The price reflects the extra features and convenience.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Multi-function cooks | Air fry and microwave in one |
| Smart homes | Alexa and app compatibility |
| Countertop chefs | Color screen and inverter tech |
FAQs of best smart microwave oven
What makes a microwave ‘smart’?
Smart microwaves add sensors, apps, voice control, or Wi‑Fi to automate cooking and simplify settings.
Are inverter microwaves better?
Yes. Inverter tech gives steady power for even defrosting and gentler heating.
Do I need Wi‑Fi in a microwave?
Not required. Wi‑Fi adds convenience like remote start and recipe scanning but increases complexity.
Which size is best for a family?
A 1.6 to 2.2 cu ft microwave suits families for plates and larger dishes.
How do sensors improve cooking?
Sensors detect humidity or steam to stop cooking at the right time and prevent overcooking.
I tested compact to combo units and found clear leaders for different needs. The best smart microwave oven depends on size needs: compact for solo cooks, mid-size for families, and combo for multi-function fans.
Overall pick: choose a sensor or inverter model for steady results. I favor models that balance power, smart features, and simplicity to save time and avoid cooked surprises with the best smart microwave oven.
