Best 1.6 Cu Ft Countertop Microwaves: Top 9 Picks (November 2026)
The best 1.6 cu ft countertop microwaves include the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven for sensor reheating, the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. for a compact counter, and the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven for simple presets.
On this page (7 sections)
- Which 1.6 cu ft countertop microwave fits your needs?
- How we chose these 1.6 cu ft microwave picks
- Which full-size countertop microwave should you choose?
- When does a smaller capacity make sense?
- How do you measure for a 1.6 cu ft countertop microwave?
- Do countertop and mounted microwaves fit the same way?
- Which 1.6 cu ft microwave should you pick?
The Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 1.6 cu. ft. is the best 1.6 cu ft countertop microwave in this group for buyers who want 1100 watts and six one-touch options. GE is a strong fit for sensor cooking, while Sharp offers sensor presets and auto defrost.
A larger microwave needs more than an open spot on the counter. Check its outside width and depth, leave room for ventilation, and compare the turntable with the dishes you use most.
If you are still deciding on capacity, see our best mid size microwave picks. Buyers who need less counter space can compare a best 1.1 cu ft microwave or a best 1.2 cu ft microwave.
Our picks at a glance
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Best for a compact counterChefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
- 4
Check itFarberware Countertop Microwave Oven 1.6 cu. ft.
Best for six one-touch options - 5
Best for moisture sensingCheck it - 6
Check itSharp SMC1662KS 1.6 cu. ft. 1100W Stainless
Best for sensor cook presets - 7
Check itBLACK+DECKER Microwave Countertop 1.4 Cu.Ft
Best for a mid-size alternative - 8
Check itMagic Chef Countertop Microwave Oven
Best for saved settings - 9
Best for a stainless finishCheck it
Which 1.6 cu ft countertop microwave fits your needs?
The Farberware leads this group for its combination of 1.6 cu ft capacity, 1100 watts and six one-touch options. GE and Sharp are alternatives if sensor cooking is a priority.
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for sensor reheating
- 1.2 cu ft capacity
- 1000 watts
- Humidity sensor
- 12.4 in glass turntable
This smaller Toshiba has a humidity sensor and 10 power levels. Choose it if the sensor feature matters more than a full 1.6 cu ft interior.
Pros
- Humidity sensor adjusts cooking time and power
- 10 power levels
- One-touch start
Cons
- 1.2 cu ft capacity, below the target size
- Smaller turntable than the 1.6 cu ft options
The Toshiba is not a 1.6 cu ft microwave. Its 1.2 cu ft capacity makes it a useful comparison for shoppers who want humidity sensing and a smaller cabinet rather than the larger interior in this roundup.
The humidity sensor adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity. Toshiba also includes 10 power levels, defrost by weight or time, and one-touch start for 1 to 6 minutes at full power.
Its stated dimensions are 20.6 x 14.6 x 11.8 in, with a 12.4 in glass turntable. That makes it narrower and shallower than the 1.6 cu ft models here, but the smaller turntable may affect which dishes fit.
Choose it if you value sensor reheat and want a smaller microwave. For a white finish in the larger capacity, see microwaves 1.6 cu ft white.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.: Best for a compact counter
- 0.7 cu ft capacity
- 700 watts
- 10 power levels
- Mute button
Chefman's small footprint and mute option suit a tight counter. It is a compact alternative, not a 1.6 cu ft microwave.
Pros
- Compact stated dimensions
- 10 power levels
- Mute button
Cons
- 0.7 cu ft capacity
- 700 watts
The Chefman is another size alternative, with 0.7 cu ft capacity and 700 watts. Its compact dimensions of 17.52 x 12.93 x 9.53 in may suit a counter where a full-size cabinet would crowd nearby work space.
You get six cooking presets, 10 power levels, digital controls and a +30 seconds button. The mute option can turn off the beeps, and the glass turntable is top-rack dishwasher safe.
This model is far smaller than the 1.6 cu ft picks, so think of it as a small-space option rather than a substitute for large dishes. Check the width, depth and height against the location you have available.
Pick Chefman when compact size and a mute function matter more than interior capacity. If you need a mid-size cabinet, compare it with our best mid size microwave guide.
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for simple presets
- 0.7 cu ft capacity
- 700 watts
- Six pre-programmed buttons
- 10 in glass turntable
Six preset buttons cover common foods, and the small cabinet may fit where a full-size microwave cannot. Its capacity is well below 1.6 cu ft.
Pros
- Six preset buttons
- Child safety lock
- Removable glass turntable
Cons
- 0.7 cu ft capacity
- 700 watts
The BLACK+DECKER 0.7 cu ft microwave gives you a stainless steel exterior and six pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and dinner plates. At 17.3 x 13 x 10.2 in, it is also smaller than the 1.6 cu ft models.
It has 700 watts, 10 power settings, a kitchen timer and a removable 10 in glass turntable. The child safety lock and push-button door release are practical details for a shared kitchen.
The 10 in turntable limits the size of dishes you can rotate inside. This is a compact comparison pick for smaller portions, not a roomy family-size microwave.
Choose it if you want familiar presets and a stainless finish in a small footprint. For another compact capacity, the best 1.1 cu ft microwave guide can help you compare the step up in size.
How we chose these 1.6 cu ft microwave picks
We compared capacity, listed dimensions, cooking power and features that matter for day-to-day use. The products are ordered by their assigned fit scores, with the 1.6 cu ft options forming the main comparison and smaller models shown as alternatives.
Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you’re shopping for. Capacity alone does not determine fit: a deeper cabinet can use more counter space, while a smaller turntable can limit dish size.
| Product | Best for | Capacity | Power | Dimensions (W x D x H) | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven | sensor reheating | 1.2 cu ft | 1000 watts | 20.6 x 14.6 x 11.8 in | 9.7 |
| Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. | a compact counter | 0.7 cu ft | 700 watts | 17.52 x 12.93 x 9.53 in | 9.7 |
| BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven | simple presets | 0.7 cu ft | 700 watts | 17.3 x 13 x 10.2 in | 9.6 |
| Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 1.6 cu. ft. | six one-touch options | 1.6 cu ft | 1100 watts | 21.8 x 19.2 x 12.9 in | 9.5 |
| GE Countertop Microwave Oven | moisture sensing | 1.6 cu ft | 1150 watts | 21.75 x 17.75 x 12.87 in | 9.3 |
| Sharp SMC1662KS 1.6 cu. ft. 1100W Stainless | sensor cook presets | 1.6 cu ft | 1100 watts | 21.8 x 17.7 x 12.8 in | 9.2 |
| BLACK+DECKER Microwave Countertop 1.4 Cu.Ft | a mid-size alternative | 1.4 cu ft | 1000 watts | 20.4 x 16.7 x 12.4 in | 9.1 |
| Magic Chef Countertop Microwave Oven | saved settings | 1.6 cu ft | 1100 watts | 21.8 x 19.2 x 12.8 in | 8.6 |
| GE Countertop Microwave Oven | a stainless finish | 1.6 cu ft | 1150 watts | 21.3 x 18.7 x 12.36 in | 8.2 |
Which full-size countertop microwave should you choose?
Farberware is the top choice for one-touch controls, while the two GE models suit buyers who want moisture sensing. Sharp adds sensor cook presets and auto defrost in a stainless steel cabinet.
Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 1.6 cu. ft.: Best for six one-touch options
- 1.6 cu ft capacity
- 1100 watts
- 10 power levels
- Six one-touch options
Farberware combines a full 1.6 cu ft interior with 1100 watts, multi-stage cooking and six one-touch options. Its listed width and depth call for a roomy counter.
Pros
- 1100 watts of output power
- 10 power levels and multi-stage cooking
- Six one-touch options
Cons
- 19.2 in deep
- No sensor cooking feature stated
Farberware is the most direct match for a 1.6 cu ft countertop microwave with 1100 watts. It has 10 power levels, multi-stage cooking, defrost by weight or time, and six one-touch options including popcorn, potato and pizza.
The dimensions are 21.8 x 19.2 x 12.9 in, so measure both counter width and depth. Its listed 19.2 in depth is among the deeper cabinets in this group.
A clear LED display includes a clock and kitchen timer. The child safety lock and interior lighting add useful details for busy kitchens, while the memory function lets you save favorite time and power combinations.
Pick Farberware if its depth fits and you want manual control over power levels plus quick presets. Consider a shallower model if counter depth is limited.
GE Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for moisture sensing
- 1.6 cu ft capacity
- 1150 watts
- Sensor cooking
- Eight convenience cook settings
GE's sensor controls monitor moisture and adjust cooking time. The black stainless finish and 1150 watts distinguish this version.
Pros
- 1150 watts
- Sensor cooking controls
- Manual and auto defrost
Cons
- Needs 3 in clearance on each side and above, plus 1 in at the rear
- Counter space must allow airflow around the cabinet
The black stainless GE gives you 1150 watts and sensor cooking in a 1.6 cu ft cabinet. Its controls monitor moisture and adjust cooking time, and it has eight convenience cook settings.
GE lists dimensions of 21.75 x 17.75 x 12.87 in. It also specifies 3 in of clearance on each side and above, 1 in at the rear, and an unobstructed bottom for airflow.
One-touch express cooking, a digital display, electronic keypad, manual and auto defrost, and a child lock round out the feature set. The black stainless finish can coordinate with other dark appliances.
Choose this version if sensor controls and the finish are priorities, and your counter can accommodate the required clearance. Don't compare only the cabinet width; airflow space affects the total area you need.
Sharp SMC1662KS 1.6 cu. ft. 1100W Stainless: Best for sensor cook presets
- 1.6 cu ft capacity
- 1100 watts
- Sensor Cook with six presets
- 13.6 in turntable
Sharp pairs sensor cooking with six presets in a stainless steel cabinet. It also has auto defrost and one-touch cooking for popcorn and beverages.
Pros
- Sensor Cook with six presets
- Auto defrost
- Express Cook up to six minutes
Cons
- 13.6 in turntable may not suit every large dish
- No power level count stated
Sharp's SMC1662KS pairs 1.6 cu ft capacity with 1100 watts and a stainless steel exterior. Sensor Cook includes six presets, and auto defrost provides a separate way to thaw food.
The stated dimensions are 21.8 x 17.7 x 12.8 in. Its 13.6 in turntable is larger than the turntables on the compact models listed earlier, but still check your widest plate or casserole dish.
One-touch cooking covers popcorn and beverages, while Express Cook runs up to six minutes. A blue LED display provides a clear readout of settings and remaining time.
This is a good match if you want sensor presets in a standard stainless finish. If you need more capacity than 1.6 cu ft, compare a best 2.2 cu ft microwave 1200 watt option.
When does a smaller capacity make sense?
A 1.2 or 1.4 cu ft microwave may be a better fit if counter depth or width is tight. The tradeoff is less interior room than the 1.6 cu ft models.
BLACK+DECKER Microwave Countertop 1.4 Cu.Ft: Best for a mid-size alternative
- 1.4 cu ft capacity
- 1000 watts
- Six pre-programmed buttons
- 12.4 in glass turntable
This BLACK+DECKER sits between compact and 1.6 cu ft models, with 1000 watts and six presets. Consider it if you want a roomy interior with a slightly smaller stated capacity.
Pros
- 1000 watts
- 10 power settings
- Removable 12.4 in turntable
Cons
- 1.4 cu ft, below the target size
- No sensor cooking feature stated
This BLACK+DECKER has 1.4 cu ft capacity and 1000 watts, placing it between compact models and the target 1.6 cu ft size. Its six pre-programmed buttons cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and dinner plates.
The cabinet measures 20.4 x 16.7 x 12.4 in and includes a removable 12.4 in glass turntable. It also has 10 power settings, a clock, kitchen timer, interior light and child safety lock.
The smaller footprint may be easier to place than a 1.6 cu ft model, while still offering more room than the 0.7 cu ft options. Check your cookware against the turntable diameter before choosing it.
Select this model if you want a mid-size alternative with 1000 watts and familiar presets. Choose a full 1.6 cu ft unit if you regularly use larger dishes.
Magic Chef Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for saved settings
- 1.6 cu ft capacity
- 1100 watts
- 10 power levels
- Three customizable presets
Magic Chef gives you three customizable preset settings alongside auto-cook menus. Its 19.2 in depth needs a deep counter.
Pros
- Three customizable preset settings
- 10 power levels
- Stainless steel body
Cons
- 19.2 in deep
- No sensor cooking feature stated
Magic Chef offers 1.6 cu ft capacity and 1100 watts, with 10 power levels and auto-cook settings for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, beverages, frozen vegetables and reheating. Three customizable preset settings let you save preferred cooking combinations.
Its 21.8 x 19.2 x 12.8 in cabinet is deep, so it needs a counter that can support the footprint. The stainless steel body and rotating glass turntable are straightforward features for everyday cooking.
The listed dimensions are close to Farberware's width and depth, so compare both models against your available counter area. Magic Chef's three saved settings may help if you often repeat the same time and power combinations.
Choose it when those customizable settings matter and the depth fits. If you prefer sensor cooking, the GE and Sharp models above provide that feature.
GE Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for a stainless finish
- 1.6 cu ft capacity
- 1150 watts
- Sensor cooking
- Eight convenience cook settings
This GE offers sensor cooking, 1150 watts and a stainless steel finish. Its stated dimensions differ from the black stainless GE, so measure the model you plan to fit.
Pros
- Sensor cooking controls
- Manual and auto defrost
- 1150 watts
Cons
- Needs clearance for countertop airflow
- Depth is 18.7 in
This stainless steel GE has 1.6 cu ft capacity, 1150 watts and sensor cooking. It includes eight convenience cook settings, one-touch express cooking, and manual and auto defrost modes.
Its dimensions are 21.3 x 18.7 x 12.36 in. GE calls for clearance around the unit for airflow, including 3 in on each side and above, plus 1 in behind; keep the base unobstructed.
The feature set closely matches the black stainless GE, but the stated dimensions differ. Confirm the exact model's measurements and placement guidance when comparing finishes, especially if your counter is snug.
Pick this version if you want stainless steel and moisture-sensing controls. For a different capacity with a smaller cabinet, compare our best 1.2 cu ft microwave options.
How do you measure for a 1.6 cu ft countertop microwave?
Measure the counter's usable width and depth, then include the space the manufacturer requires around the microwave. For GE, that means 3 in on each side and above, plus 1 in at the rear.
Also measure the path from the delivery point to the counter, including doorways and turns. The widest models here are about 22 in across, and several are close to 19 in deep.
Finally, check the turntable size against your largest plate or dish. Interior capacity does not tell you the exact dimensions of the cooking space or the clearance needed to rotate a dish.
Do countertop and mounted microwaves fit the same way?
A countertop microwave sits on a counter with the airflow clearances its instructions require. An over-the-range microwave is made for a mounted location, so its dimensions and installation needs are different.
Don't treat a mounted model as a roomy countertop alternative. Read our guide on whether you can put an over-the-range microwave on a countertop before considering a placement change.
Which 1.6 cu ft microwave should you pick?
Choose Farberware if you want 1100 watts and six one-touch options and have space for its 19.2 in depth. Choose GE for moisture-sensing controls, or Sharp for sensor presets and auto defrost.
If the full-size models crowd your counter, compare the 1.4 cu ft BLACK+DECKER or the smaller Toshiba. For crisping and baking tasks, a toaster oven uses a different cooking method and may suit a different part of your kitchen routine.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
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1
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2
Best for a compact counter
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Frequently asked questions
What is the best 1.6 cu ft countertop microwave?
The Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 1.6 cu. ft. is our top pick for its 1100 watts, 10 power levels and six one-touch options. Choose GE if you want moisture-sensing controls, or Sharp for sensor cooking with six presets.
Measure the counter and check clearance before choosing.
Is a 1.6 cu ft microwave large enough for family meals?
A 1.6 cu ft microwave offers more interior capacity than the 0.7, 1.2 and 1.4 cu ft alternatives in this group. The listed features describe family meals and larger portions as intended uses for several 1.6 cu ft models.
Check that your regular plates and dishes fit the turntable.
How much counter space does a 1.6 cu ft microwave need?
The 1.6 cu ft picks here are about 21.3 to 22 in wide and 17.7 to 19.2 in deep. GE calls for 3 in of clearance on each side and above, plus 1 in behind the unit.
Confirm the specific model's dimensions and ventilation instructions before setting it in place.
Can I use an over-the-range microwave on a countertop?
An over-the-range microwave is designed for a mounted position, so don't assume it is suitable for countertop use. Check its installation instructions for approved placement and required ventilation.
Our guide explains whether you can put an over-the-range microwave on a countertop.
Should I choose a 1.6 cu ft microwave or a toaster oven?
Choose a 1.6 cu ft microwave for reheating and microwave cooking in a larger cavity. A toaster oven cooks with a different method and may suit tasks where you want browning or baking.
Compare the use cases in our toaster oven buying guide.
