Best 1200 Watt Microwaves: Top 9 Picks (October 2026)
The best 1200 watt countertop microwaves include the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven for sensor reheating, the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven for compact counters, and the BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop for 1000W everyday cooking.
On this page (5 sections)
The best 1200 watt microwave for most households is the Panasonic NN-SN65KB, which combines 1200W output with inverter cooking and sensor controls in a 1.2 cu ft countertop oven. For more capacity, compare the Sharp 2.2 cu ft model and GE's 2.0 cu ft options.
A countertop microwave oven 1200 watt shoppers can use every day should fit both their food and their counter. The products below include true 1200W models and a few lower wattage alternatives for shoppers who value a feature such as sensor reheating or a smaller footprint.
If you're still weighing power against features, start with our guide to which microwave should you buy. Our comparisons of the best 1000 watt microwave and best 1100 watt microwave ovens show what you trade as output changes.
Our picks at a glance
-
1
-
2
-
3
Best for 1000W everyday cookingBLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop
9.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itPanasonic NN-SN65KB Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology
Best for even reheating - 5
Check itSharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless
Best for large serving dishes - 6
Best for family-size capacityCheck it - 7
Best for a black finishCheck it - 8
Check itChefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft.
Best for mute and eco controls - 9
Check itTOSHIBA Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor
Best for sensor menus and room
How we chose 1200 watt microwave ovens
We compared output, capacity, turntable size, controls and cooking features against the needs of countertop buyers. The list includes models at 1200W and lower output so you can see how capacity and convenience features vary.
Our score weighs specs and features against what shoppers seek in a high output countertop microwave. We did not treat a larger cavity or more presets as a substitute for the stated output power.
How do the best 1200 watt microwaves compare?
The Panasonic, Sharp, Toshiba and GE options provide 1200W output, while several alternatives here have lower wattage. If you prefer a mounted model, compare Samsung over-the-range microwaves.
Check capacity and dimensions alongside power so you choose a model that works with your dishes and available space.
| Product | Best for | Capacity | Output power | Turntable | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven | sensor reheating | 1.2 cu ft | 1000W | 12.4 in | 9.7 |
| BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven | compact counters | 0.7 cu ft | 700W | 10 in | 9.6 |
| BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop | 1000W everyday cooking | 1.1 cu ft | 1000W | 12.4 in | 9.5 |
| Panasonic NN-SN65KB Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology | even reheating | 1.2 cu ft | 1200W | 13.4 in | 9.3 |
| Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless | large serving dishes | 2.2 cu ft | 1200W | 16.5 in | 9.1 |
| GE Countertop Microwave Oven | family-size capacity | 2.0 cu ft | 1200W | 9.0 | |
| GE Countertop Microwave Oven | a black finish | 2.0 cu ft | 1200W | 8.8 | |
| Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. | mute and eco controls | 1.1 cu ft | 1000W | 8.8 | |
| TOSHIBA Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor | sensor menus and room | 1.6 cu ft | 1200W | 13.6 in | 8.5 |
Best countertop microwave ovens by use
The Panasonic is the strongest match for buyers who specifically want 1200W with inverter cooking in a moderate-size cavity. The other models offer different combinations of capacity, presets and controls.
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for sensor reheating
- 1.2 cu ft capacity
- 1000W output
- Smart humidity sensor
- 12.4 in turntable
Sensor cooking adjusts time and power based on food humidity. It has 10 power levels and a 12.4 in turntable.
Pros
- Humidity sensor
- 10 power levels
- One-touch start
Cons
- Output is 1000W, below the 1200W target
Toshiba's 1.2 cu ft countertop microwave is a compact choice for buyers who want humidity-sensor cooking and simple presets. Its output is 1000W, so it falls short of a strict 1200W requirement, but its sensor and power controls may matter more if you're comparing versatile everyday ovens.
The model has 10 power levels, a 12.4 in removable glass turntable, and six preset menus for popular foods. One-touch start runs the oven at full power for 1 to 6 minutes, while defrost can be set by time or weight.
Its exterior measures 20.6 x 14.6 x 11.8 in. Measure your counter depth and leave the ventilation space required by the manual.
Choose this Toshiba when sensor reheating and its 1.2 cu ft size fit your routine. For a strict 1200W countertop microwave oven, the Panasonic or Toshiba ML-EM45P below is a closer match.
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for compact counters
- 0.7 cu ft capacity
- 700W output
- 10 power settings
- 10 in turntable
This compact model has six preset buttons and 10 power settings. Its 700W output is well below 1200W.
Pros
- Small 0.7 cu ft capacity
- Six preset buttons
- Child safety lock
Cons
- 700W output
BLACK+DECKER's 0.7 cu ft microwave is the compact option in this group, with 700W output and a 10 in removable turntable. It is included as a lower-power alternative for a small counter or modest portions, rather than as a true 1200W pick.
The control panel offers 10 power settings, a clock and timer, and express cooking. Presets cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and dinner plates.
Its dimensions are 17.3 x 13 x 10.2 in, which may make placement easier where a larger 1200W countertop microwave will not fit. Check the turntable diameter against your plates before buying.
Pick this model if counter space and a smaller cavity matter more than high output. If you need stronger output in a similar everyday category, compare it with the best 900 watt microwave.
BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop: Best for 1000W everyday cooking
- 1.1 cu ft capacity
- 1000W output
- 10 power settings
- 12.4 in turntable
A 1.1 cu ft cavity and 1000W output suit routine reheating and cooking. Six presets cover common foods.
Pros
- 10 power settings
- Six preset buttons
- Child safety lock
Cons
- Output is 1000W, below the 1200W target
This BLACK+DECKER offers a 1.1 cu ft capacity and 1000W output, providing more interior room than the brand's 0.7 cu ft model. It is still below the 1200W target, but has familiar controls and six preset buttons for common foods.
The microwave includes 10 power settings, a clock and kitchen timer, 30-second express cooking, and a removable 12.4 in glass turntable. A child safety lock and push-button door release are also included.
Its stated exterior dimensions are 20.6 x 14.8 x 11.8 in. Check the available depth and width, especially if the microwave will share a counter with other appliances.
Choose it for a mid-size cavity and straightforward presets if 1000W is enough for your use. For a more capable 1200W option, the Panasonic adds inverter technology and sensor cooking.
Panasonic NN-SN65KB Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology: Best for even reheating
- 1.2 cu ft capacity
- 1200W output
- Inverter technology
- 10 sensor cook settings
Inverter technology provides a continuous stream of cooking power. Genius Sensor includes 10 sensor cook settings and sensor reheat.
Pros
- 1200W output
- Inverter cooking
- Turbo Defrost
Cons
- 1.2 cu ft capacity may be small for large dishes
Panasonic's NN-SN65KB is the most balanced fit for shoppers who want 1200W output without moving to a large-capacity cabinet. The 1.2 cu ft cavity includes a 13.4 in turntable and inverter cooking technology.
Its Genius Sensor adjusts cooking time and power for selected foods, and the model has 10 sensor cook settings, sensor reheat and 15 auto cook options. Turbo Defrost, a 3-level popcorn button and Keep Warm add more ways to handle everyday cooking.
The exterior measures 20.7 x 15.8 x 12.2 in. That footprint is notably smaller than the 2.0 and 2.2 cu ft models below, though the interior may not suit oversized platters.
Choose this Panasonic if you want the stated 1200W output with sensor features and inverter cooking in a moderate footprint. Check the turntable diameter against your largest dish.
Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless: Best for large serving dishes
- 2.2 cu ft capacity
- 1200W output
- 16.5 in turntable
- Inverter cooking
Its 2.2 cu ft capacity and 16.5 in turntable accommodate larger portions and dishes. Sensor Cook and Auto Cook add guided settings.
Pros
- Largest capacity here
- Inverter cooking
- Weight and time defrost
Cons
- Wide 24.4 in exterior needs counter space
Sharp's SMC2266KS is the high-capacity pick, with 2.2 cu ft and 1200W output. Its 16.5 in turntable gives larger plates and casserole dishes more room to rotate.
The model has inverter cooking, 10 power levels and two-stage cooking. Sensor Cook, Auto Cook, weight and time defrost, Melt/Soften and an express cook key cover a range of common tasks.
Its exterior is 24.4 x 19.6 x 13.6 in, so measure carefully before choosing it for a countertop. Sharp also describes it as compatible with an optional trim kit for built-in installation, sold separately.
Pick this Sharp if you regularly heat larger portions and can spare the counter space. For a mounted microwave with cooking and ventilation, see 1200 watt over-the-range options.
If you need a microwave specifically designed for an over-the-range location, read whether an over-the-range microwave can sit on a countertop before placing one.
GE Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for family-size capacity
- 2.0 cu ft capacity
- 1200W output
- Sensor cooking
- Eight convenience cook settings
The 2.0 cu ft interior pairs 1200W output with moisture-sensing controls. One-touch express cooking and eight convenience settings simplify common tasks.
Pros
- 1200W output
- 2.0 cu ft interior
- Manual and auto defrost
Cons
- Requires 3 in clearance on sides and above
GE's stainless steel 2.0 cu ft model pairs 1200W output with sensor cooking. Its moisture-sensing controls adjust cooking time, while one-touch express cooking and eight convenience settings provide quick access to common tasks.
Manual and auto defrost are available, along with a child lock and digital keypad. The exterior measures 24.09 W x 19.4 D x 16.69 H in, and GE specifies 3 in of clearance at the sides and above, plus 1 in at the rear.
This is a countertop-only model, and GE says it isn't designed for built-in installation or trim-kit use. Keep the bottom unobstructed for airflow.
Choose this version if you want a large cavity, 1200W output and stainless steel appearance. Measure the whole footprint and clearance before setting it on a counter.
GE Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for a black finish
- 2.0 cu ft capacity
- 1200W output
- Sensor cooking
- Eight convenience cook settings
This black GE model has a 2.0 cu ft cavity, sensor cooking and eight convenience settings. Measure its footprint and required clearances before choosing a spot.
Pros
- 1200W output
- 2.0 cu ft capacity
- One-touch express cooking
Cons
- Requires countertop placement and ventilation clearance
This black GE model also has 2.0 cu ft capacity and 1200W output, with sensor cooking and eight convenience settings. Its black finish gives buyers an alternative to stainless steel while keeping the same broad capacity class.
The microwave has one-touch express cooking, manual and auto defrost, a digital display and a child lock. GE specifies countertop installation, 3 in of space on each side and above, 1 in at the rear, and an unobstructed bottom.
Its listed model dimensions vary between the bullet dimensions and the dimension field, so confirm the unit's exact measurements before buying. The counter space and clearance matter as much as the 1200W rating.
Choose it if you want a black finish and roomy cavity. If you prefer black stainless steel, see our guide to black stainless steel countertop microwaves.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft.: Best for mute and eco controls
- 1.1 cu ft capacity
- 1000W output
- Six cooking presets
- Mute button and Eco Mode
The six presets cover common foods, while the mute button and Eco Mode offer added control over sound and display use. Its output is 1000W.
Pros
- Mute option
- Eco Mode
- Six cooking presets
Cons
- Output is 1000W, below the 1200W target
Chefman's 1.1 cu ft microwave provides 1000W output, six presets and 10 power levels. It is a lower-wattage alternative for shoppers who value its mute button, Eco Mode and memory function.
If price matters alongside output, compare microwaves under 100 dollars.
The presets cover popcorn, pizza, beverages, vegetables, potatoes and leftovers. You can use the number keys to set cooking time, add 30 seconds, or mute the sounds with the audio button.
The exterior measures 20.1 x 15.1 x 12 in. Its glass turntable is described as top-rack dishwasher safe, and the child safety lock can disable the control panel.
Choose this model when sound and display controls matter more than reaching 1200W. For a tighter budget, our guide explains what to expect from a microwave oven under 50 dollars.
TOSHIBA Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor: Best for sensor menus and room
- 1.6 cu ft capacity
- 1200W output
- 13.6 in turntable
- Smart sensor menus
A 1.6 cu ft cavity and 1200W output balance room for family portions with high power. Sensor menus cover foods such as pizza, potatoes and vegetables.
Pros
- 1200W output
- 1.6 cu ft capacity
- Position-memory turntable
Cons
- Check the 21.77 x 17.91 x 12.87 in exterior against your counter
Toshiba's ML-EM45P(BS) gives you 1200W output in a 1.6 cu ft cavity, a useful middle ground between compact 1.2 cu ft ovens and larger family models. Its 13.6 in position-memory turntable is sized for a 13 in pizza.
Sensor menus cover foods such as pizza, potatoes and vegetables, while other features include auto defrost, memory function, multi-stage cooking and a child safety lock. The sound can be switched off, and the control panel includes 10 power levels.
The exterior measures 21.77 x 17.91 x 12.87 in. Check depth and clearance before setting it on your counter, and remove the protective film from the keypad before first use.
Choose it if you want 1200W and more room than a 1.2 cu ft microwave. The Panasonic is smaller; the Sharp and GE models provide larger capacities if your counter can accommodate them.
How should you choose a 1200 watt countertop microwave?
Choose wattage, cavity size and turntable diameter together, then confirm the exterior will fit with the required airflow space. These checks help narrow the field more reliably than a feature count alone.
Is a 1200 watt countertop microwave oven worth choosing?
A 1200W model suits buyers who want high output and often reheat larger portions or cook everyday meals in the microwave. The Panasonic offers that output in a 1.2 cu ft cabinet, while the Sharp and GE options provide more cavity space.
A 1000W microwave may still be a practical choice if its sensors, controls or dimensions fit better. Compare the best 700 watt microwave if you need a small, lower-output oven for basic tasks.
How much capacity do you need?
A 1.2 cu ft model may suit everyday plates and bowls, while a 2.0 or 2.2 cu ft cavity gives larger dishes more room. Capacity alone doesn't confirm that a particular dish fits, so compare the turntable and interior measurements with your cookware.
The Panasonic has a 13.4 in turntable, Toshiba's ML-EM45P(BS) has a 13.6 in turntable, and Sharp's turntable measures 16.5 in. Match those numbers to your largest plate or casserole.
What should you measure on the counter?
Measure width, depth and height, then add the model's required side, top and rear ventilation clearances. A microwave that fits between cabinets may still lack enough open space around it.
The GE 2.0 cu ft models call for 3 in on each side and above, 1 in at the rear, and an unobstructed bottom. Follow the manual for whichever model you choose.
Which features matter most?
Sensor cooking can adjust time and power for selected foods, while preset buttons speed up routine choices. Inverter technology, power levels, mute controls and defrost options can also guide the decision based on how you cook.
The Panasonic combines inverter cooking with sensor menus, and both GE models provide moisture-sensing controls. Toshiba's 1.6 cu ft model has sensor menus and a position-memory turntable, while Chefman offers mute and Eco controls.
Which 1200 watt microwave should you choose?
Choose the Panasonic NN-SN65KB if you want a 1200W countertop microwave with inverter cooking and sensor settings in a moderate footprint. Pick the Sharp or GE if you need a larger cavity, or Toshiba's 1.6 cu ft model for a middle-size 1200W option with sensor menus.
For more room, compare the cabinet dimensions and turntable size with your dishes before buying. If you don't need 1200W, the 1000W Toshiba and BLACK+DECKER options offer sensor or preset features at lower output.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
-
2
-
3
Best for 1000W everyday cooking
BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop
9.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
Is a 1200 watt microwave better?
A 1200W microwave can cook or reheat with more output power than a lower-wattage model, but it isn't automatically the best fit. Match its capacity, controls and exterior size to the dishes you use and the counter space you have.
For smaller meals, a lower-wattage model may meet your needs.
What size countertop microwave has 1200 watts?
1200W countertop microwaves come in different capacities. The picks here range from 1.2 cu ft Panasonic models to 2.2 cu ft Sharp and 2.0 cu ft GE models.
Compare turntable diameter and exterior dimensions with your usual dishes and available counter space.
Does higher wattage make microwave cooking faster?
Higher output can reduce the time needed for some cooking and reheating tasks, but results depend on the food, portion size and power setting. Use the package directions as a starting point and adjust as needed.
Sensor controls can help set time and power for selected foods.
What should I check before buying a high wattage countertop microwave?
Check the output wattage, capacity, turntable size, exterior dimensions and ventilation clearance. Some large models need substantial counter depth and width, plus open space around the cabinet.
Compare the turntable with your largest plate or dish, and follow the clearance guidance for the model.
