The Best Microwaves of 2025: Which One is Right for Your Kitchen?

Microwaves have become a kitchen essential, helping us save time and energy by quickly reheating food, defrosting frozen meals, or even cooking full meals from scratch. But with so many options on the market in 2025, choosing the right microwave for your needs can feel like a daunting task. From high-tech features to sleek designs, there’s an option for every kitchen and cooking style.
To make things easier for you, we’ve rounded up the best microwaves of 2025. We’ll break them down by brand, model, and key features, with pros and cons to help you decide which one is perfect for your home. Let’s dive in!
1. Samsung Smart Microwave - Model: MS14K6000AS
Best for: Smart cooking with advanced features
Samsung is known for its innovative appliances, and their MS14K6000AS Smart Microwave is no exception. This microwave brings convenience and technology into the kitchen with its smart capabilities, making it perfect for tech-savvy individuals looking for more control over their cooking.
Key Features:
- Smart functionality with Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to control and monitor your microwave remotely via the Samsung SmartThings app.
- Sensor cooking adjusts the cooking time based on humidity levels in the food for perfect results.
- Eco Mode saves energy by reducing standby power.
- Grill function for roasting and browning food.
Pros:
- Smart capabilities let you control the microwave from your phone.
- Sensor cooking ensures food is cooked evenly without guesswork.
- The grill function adds versatility to your cooking options.
- Stylish, modern design fits well in contemporary kitchens.
Cons:
- On the pricier side for a standard microwave.
- Some users report a steeper learning curve with the smart features.
- Limited capacity compared to larger models.
Best for: Home cooks who love tech and want an easy-to-use, multi-functional microwave.
2. Whirlpool Over-the-Range Microwave - Model: WMH31017HZ
Best for: Space-saving and multi-tasking in small kitchens
If you’re short on counter space but still want a high-performance microwave, the Whirlpool WMH31017HZ Over-the-Range Microwave is an excellent choice. It combines the power of a microwave with the functionality of a range hood, making it ideal for small kitchens.
Key Features:
- 1.7 cu. ft. capacity, perfect for reheating larger dishes.
- 2-speed, 300 CFM venting system to remove smoke, odors, and moisture from your kitchen.
- Simple electronic touch controls for easy use.
- Turntable for even cooking.
Pros:
- Saves valuable counter space by being mounted above the stove.
- Dual functionality with the range hood and microwave.
- Simple controls and easy installation.
- Quiet operation, making it ideal for a peaceful kitchen environment.
Cons:
- The venting system could be more powerful for larger kitchens or heavy-duty cooking.
- May not fit in kitchens with lower ceilings.
- The 1.7 cu. ft. size may not be large enough for bigger meals or multiple dishes at once.
Best for: Small kitchens or apartments that need to save space while still offering reliable microwave performance.
3. Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave - Model: BMO850BSS
Best for: All-in-one versatility for the home chef
Breville is a brand known for high-quality, multi-functional kitchen appliances, and the Combi Wave 3-in-1 is a prime example. This microwave combines the functions of a microwave, convection oven, and air fryer, offering a one-stop solution for all your cooking needs. If you want more than just reheating capabilities, this microwave is the way to go.
Key Features:
- 3-in-1 functionality: Microwave, convection oven, and air fryer in one appliance.
- Smart Defrost automatically adjusts time based on the weight of the food.
- Fast Combi mode combines microwave and convection cooking for faster results.
- 1200 watts of power for quick and efficient cooking.
Pros:
- Multi-functional, offering microwave, oven, and air fryer options in a single unit.
- Convection cooking and air frying provide healthier alternatives to traditional frying.
- Smart technology ensures precise cooking with automatic adjustments.
- Stylish design that fits well in modern kitchens.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to basic microwaves.
- Takes up more counter space due to its multifunctional design.
- Can be overwhelming to use for those who only need basic microwave features.
Best for: Cooks who want an all-in-one kitchen appliance with multiple cooking functions.
4. Panasonic Inverter Microwave - Model: NN-SN966S
Best for: Even cooking with inverter technology
Panasonic’s NN-SN966S Inverter Microwave is a game-changer when it comes to even cooking. With inverter technology, it delivers more precise and consistent heat, allowing your food to cook evenly without the hot spots often found in traditional microwaves. If you're after great performance and energy efficiency, this model is a solid choice.
Key Features:
- Inverter technology for continuous, even cooking.
- 2.2 cu. ft. capacity to handle large meals.
- 1000 watts of power, offering fast cooking and reheating.
- Turbo Defrost for quick and efficient defrosting.
Pros:
- Inverter technology delivers evenly cooked food without hot spots.
- Large capacity, great for bigger families or meal prep.
- Turbo defrost is ideal for defrosting large cuts of meat or frozen meals quickly.
- Energy-efficient and reduces cooking time.
Cons:
- May be too large for smaller kitchens.
- The design is more basic compared to other models with a sleek appearance.
- Some users find the touchpad controls a bit unresponsive at times.
Best for: Anyone who wants an efficient, reliable microwave with even cooking performance.
5. LG NeoChef Countertop Microwave - Model: LMC1575ST
Best for: Stylish design and intuitive controls
If you’re looking for a sleek and stylish microwave with easy-to-use controls, the LG NeoChef LMC1575ST is a great option. This countertop microwave features LG’s Smart Inverter technology for consistent, even cooking, and its modern design fits well with almost any kitchen style.
Key Features:
- Smart Inverter technology for even cooking and reheating.
- EasyClean interior for quick and simple cleaning.
- 1.5 cu. ft. capacity suitable for smaller to medium-sized meals.
- Quiet operation, making it perfect for homes with open kitchens.
Pros:
- Stylish and modern design that complements any kitchen.
- Inverter technology ensures precise cooking and even results.
- Easy to clean with LG’s innovative EasyClean interior.
- Quiet operation for minimal kitchen noise.
Cons:
- Smaller capacity may not be enough for larger families or cooking multiple dishes.
- Some users report that the microwave is a bit slow in cooking compared to other models.
- More expensive than basic countertop microwaves.
Best for: Those who value design, efficiency, and easy cleaning in their kitchen appliances.
How to Choose the Right Microwave for Your Home
When selecting the best microwave for your home in 2025, there are a few key factors to consider:
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Cooking Needs: What will you use the microwave for? If you need something basic for reheating, a countertop model like the LG NeoChef might be enough. However, if you want more versatility with baking, air frying, or grilling, the Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 could be a better fit.
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Kitchen Space: Do you have room for a countertop model, or do you need something more compact or space-saving like an over-the-range model?
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Smart Features: If you love technology, a smart microwave like the Samsung Smart Microwave will give you remote control and connectivity via your smartphone.
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Budget: Prices vary widely, from budget-friendly options like the Whirlpool Over-the-Range Microwave to more expensive multi-functional models like the Breville Combi Wave. Set your budget and choose accordingly.
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Design Preferences: If the look of your appliances is important to you, consider a microwave that fits your kitchen’s aesthetic, like the sleek LG NeoChef or the modern design of the Samsung Smart Microwave.
Ultimately, the best microwave for you depends on your cooking style, kitchen space, and budget. Whether you want a simple, reliable model for everyday tasks or an all-in-one appliance to handle more complex cooking, there’s a perfect microwave out there for your home. Happy cooking!