9 Best Large Microwave Ovens (November 2026)
The best large microwave ovens include the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven for balanced family use, the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. for small kitchens, and the BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop for simple countertop controls.
On this page (3 sections)
The best large microwave oven for most family kitchens is the TOSHIBA 2.2 cu. ft. countertop model, with 1200 watts and a 16.5-inch turntable.
Choose Sharp for inverter cooking, GE for a slightly smaller 2.0 cu. ft. cabinet, or BLACK+DECKER when you need an over-the-range vent.
That short answer works for many homes, but the right pick depends on your largest dish and your available counter space.
A microwave can have a large cubic foot rating and still struggle with a wide platter if the turntable is small.
It can also be too deep for a shallow counter or too tall for the space under your upper cabinets.
That is why capacity, turntable diameter and outside dimensions all matter before you buy.
Large microwave ovens are not all large in the same way.
A model may have more cubic feet but still need careful planning because its outside width, depth, height and turntable diameter determine what fits in your kitchen and inside the cooking cavity.
A 2.2 cu. ft. model suits family portions and wide dishes more easily than a compact 0.7 cu. ft. model.
A 1.6 cu. ft. or 2.0 cu. ft. model may be a better middle ground for a smaller counter.
The 1.2 cu. ft. TOSHIBA model in this roundup suits everyday plates and bowls without demanding the footprint of the largest cabinets.
Think first about what you cook most often, such as leftovers, frozen meals, vegetables, pizza or casserole dishes.
Then measure that dish across its widest point, including any handles that need to rotate.
Next, measure the width, depth and height of the space where the microwave will sit.
Leave room for airflow and for the door to open fully without hitting a wall or cabinet.
Power is also worth checking, since 1200W models can heat larger portions faster than 700W or 1000W models.
Sensor cooking, presets and defrost modes can make daily use simpler, especially for reheating and frozen foods.
If you need a countertop model with a wide cabinet, compare this roundup with our guide to the best large countertop microwave.
For a fixed-width space, the advice in how to choose a 24 inch countertop microwave can help you measure before you buy.
Use those measurements as a starting point and then compare each model below against your own dishes and counter.
That approach helps you avoid buying capacity you cannot place or a turntable that is too small for your usual plates.
Our picks at a glance
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1
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2
Best for small kitchensChefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for simple countertop controlsBLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop
9.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itBLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven
Best for over-the-range installation - 5
Check itTOSHIBA Large Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart
Best for extra-wide dishes - 6
Check itSharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless
Best for inverter cooking - 7
Best for a 2.0 cu. ft. footprintCheck it - 8
Best for medium-large countersCheck it - 9
Check itFRIGIDAIRE 2.2 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Microwave
Best for programmed family meals
The best large microwave ovens for family portions
The best large microwave ovens here are the TOSHIBA and Sharp 2.2 cu. ft. models because both pair a wide 16.5-inch turntable with 1200W output.
The other picks trade some capacity for smaller footprints, simpler placement or over-the-range ventilation.
That mix matters because the largest cabinet is not always the easiest one to live with.
A deep 2.2 cu. ft. model needs a generous counter, while a compact model may fit a small kitchen far better.
We compared stated capacity, outside dimensions, turntable size, power, installation type and cooking controls.
Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.
We also considered who each model suits best, from families with wide serving dishes to users with limited space.
Higher power can help with larger portions, but turntable size often decides whether a platter will actually rotate.
Installation type matters too, since a countertop microwave and an over-the-range microwave serve different kitchens.
The models below include sensor cooking, inverter cooking, presets, defrost modes and child locks in different combinations.
Use the score as a guide, then check the capacity and dimensions that matter most for your home.
A model with a slightly lower score may still be the better fit if its size matches your counter.
| Product | Best for | Capacity | Size | Power | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven | balanced family use | 1.2 cu. ft. | 20.6 W x 14.6 D x 11.8 H in | 1000W output | 9.7 |
| Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. | small kitchens | 0.7 cu. ft. | 17.52 W x 12.93 D x 9.53 H in | 700W | 9.7 |
| BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop | simple countertop controls | 1.1 cu. ft. | 20.6 W x 14.8 D x 11.8 H in | 1000W output | 9.5 |
| BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven | over-the-range installation | 1.7 cu. ft. | 29.9 W x 13.9 D x 16.4 H in | 9.4 | |
| TOSHIBA Large Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart | extra-wide dishes | 2.2 cu. ft. | 24.4 W x 19.6 D x 13.6 H in | 9.3 | |
| Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless | inverter cooking | 2.2 cu. ft. | 24.4 W x 19.6 D x 13.6 H in | 9.1 | |
| GE Countertop Microwave Oven | a 2.0 cu. ft. footprint | 2.0 cu. ft. | 24.09 W x 19.4 D x 16.69 H in | 9.0 | |
| GE Countertop Microwave Oven | medium-large counters | 1.6 cu. ft. | 21.3 W x 18.7 D x 12.36 H in | 1150W | 8.2 |
| FRIGIDAIRE 2.2 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Microwave | programmed family meals | 2.1 cu. ft. | 21.26 W x 16.26 D x 13.25 H in | 8.1 |
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for balanced family use
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for balanced family use
- 1.2 cu. ft. capacity
- 1000W output
- 12.4-inch removable glass turntable
- Smart humidity sensor
This compact large-size pick combines a 1000W output with sensor cooking, 10 power levels and a 12.4-inch turntable.
Pros
- Smart humidity sensor
- 10 power levels
- Mute and ECO modes
Cons
- Smaller capacity than the family-size models
- Countertop installation only
The TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven is a good fit when you want useful sensor features without moving to the deepest cabinets in this roundup. Its 1.2 cu. ft. capacity and 12.4-inch removable glass turntable work for everyday plates and bowls, while the 1000W output supports regular reheating and cooking.
Smart Sensor Technology adjusts time and power based on food humidity. The microwave also has 10 power levels, 6 preset menus, easy defrost by weight or time and one-touch starts from 1 to 6 minutes at full power.
At 20.6 W x 14.6 D x 11.8 H inches, it is easier to place than the 2.2 cu. ft. models. The black stainless steel exterior, ECO mode and mute function suit an apartment kitchen, office break room or shared home where sound matters.
Choose it when you want a balanced countertop size and sensor cooking. Pick a larger model if your usual dishes need a 16.5-inch turntable.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.: Best for small kitchens
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.: Best for small kitchens
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 700W output
- 10 power levels
- 6 cooking presets
The Chefman is the smallest model here, but its presets, child safety lock and mute button make it practical where counter space matters.
Pros
- Compact footprint
- 10 power levels
- Top-rack dishwasher-safe glass turntable
Cons
- Lowest capacity in this roundup
- 700W output cooks more slowly than higher-power models
The Chefman is the smallest model here, so it is better for a small kitchen than for family-size dishes.
Its 0.7 cu. ft. capacity, 17.52 W x 12.93 D x 9.53 H dimensions and 700W output keep the appliance compact.
Those measurements suit a tight counter, a dorm room, an office corner or a small apartment kitchen.
The trade-off is that wide platters, large casserole dishes and family portions will feel cramped inside.
Six presets cover popcorn, pizza, beverages, vegetables, potatoes and leftovers.
You can also choose among 10 power levels, use the +30 seconds button and mute the audio when beeps would disturb the room.
The presets are handy when you cook the same foods often and want a quick one-touch start.
Lower power levels help with delicate foods such as melted butter, while higher levels suit rapid reheating.
The +30 seconds button is useful when a dish needs a little more time and you do not want to re-enter a full setting.
The child safety lock adds a useful control for family spaces.
The glass turntable is top-rack dishwasher safe, and the black exterior wipes clean with a damp towel.
That makes routine cleaning simpler after splashes from sauces or covered dishes.
This is a practical choice when the available counter is limited and your dishes are modest in size.
It is not the right pick if you need a large microwave oven for casserole dishes or wide serving plates.
Choose it for compact placement and simple controls, and choose a larger model when rotating space matters more.
BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop: Best for simple countertop controls
BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop: Best for simple countertop controls
- 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
- 1000W output
- 12.4-inch removable glass turntable
- 6 auto cook presets
This BLACK+DECKER model offers a roomy countertop interior, 1000W output, 10 power levels and a push-button door.
Pros
- 1000W output
- Child safety lock
- Interior light
Cons
- Less capacity than the 2.2 cu. ft. models
- Black enclosure with stainless steel door frame
The BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave gives you a 1.1 cu. ft. interior with 1000W output and a removable 12.4-inch glass turntable.
Its 20.6 W x 14.8 D x 11.8 H footprint is close to the TOSHIBA 1.2 cu. ft. model.
That size suits everyday plates, bowls and dinner plates without taking up as much counter as the 2.0 and 2.2 cu. ft. models.
It is a sensible middle option for a family kitchen that does not need a 16.5-inch turntable.
Six preset buttons cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and dinner plates.
Ten power settings, a 30-second express button, a large LED display and a kitchen timer keep the controls straightforward.
The presets help when you want a familiar food setting without setting time and power from scratch.
The express button is useful for a quick reheat when you only need a short burst of cooking.
A push-button door release makes access simple, while the interior light helps you see food during cooking.
The child safety lock is useful in households where young children can reach the appliance.
Those controls suit busy users who prefer buttons over more complex menus.
Choose this model when you want 1000W output and familiar button controls in a mid-size countertop cabinet.
The larger 2.0 and 2.2 cu. ft. models are better for wide dishes.
Check your largest plate first, since the 12.4-inch turntable sets a clear limit on what will rotate comfortably.
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven: Best for over-the-range installation
BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave Oven: Best for over-the-range installation
- 1.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 1000W output
- 300 CFM vent fan
- Integrated light
This model adds a 300 CFM, 2-speed vent fan and cooking light while keeping a 1.7 cu. ft. interior for over-stove use.
Pros
- Built-in vent fan
- Integrated light
- 10 power levels
Cons
- Requires over-the-range installation
- Less capacity than the largest countertop models
The BLACK+DECKER Over the Range Microwave is the right type of large microwave oven when you want cooking space above the stove and ventilation below the cabinet.
Its 1.7 cu. ft. capacity, 1000W output and 12.4-inch turntable give you more interior room than the compact countertop models.
That placement can free counter space in a kitchen where a large countertop appliance would be hard to fit.
The 29.9 W x 13.9 D x 16.4 H body includes a 300 CFM, 2-speed vent fan and an integrated light.
Those features make it different from the countertop picks, which are designed to sit on a work surface.
The vent fan helps with fumes and odors while you cook, and the light makes the stove area easier to see.
Six quick menus cover popcorn, potato, beverage, melt or soften, reheat and defrost.
You also get 10 cooking levels, one-touch 1 to 3 minute cooking and multi-stage cooking.
Multi-stage cooking lets you combine different power levels in one setting, which can suit foods that need a strong start and gentler finish.
The quick minute buttons are helpful for simple reheats when you do not need a preset.
Measure the space above your range before choosing it.
Pick a countertop model instead if you do not already have a suitable over-the-range installation plan.
Confirm the opening width, cabinet space and electrical needs before ordering, since this type of microwave is fixed in place.
TOSHIBA Large Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart: Best for extra-wide dishes
TOSHIBA Large Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart: Best for extra-wide dishes
- 2.2 cu. ft. capacity
- 1200W output
- 16.5-inch glass turntable
- Smart humidity sensor
The TOSHIBA gives large dishes the most useful combination of 2.2 cu. ft. capacity, 1200W output and a 16.5-inch turntable.
Pros
- Fits a 16-inch pizza or whole chicken
- 23 menus
- ECO mode and mute option
Cons
- Deep and heavy countertop design
- Needs more counter space
The TOSHIBA Large Countertop Microwave is the strongest choice for extra-wide dishes because it combines 2.2 cu. ft. capacity with a 16.5-inch glass turntable.
Its 1200W output is suited to family portions, and the brand states that it fits a 16-inch pizza or a whole chicken.
That combination suits households that cook for several people or use large serving dishes.
The exterior measures 24.4 W x 19.6 D x 13.6 H inches, so plan for a deep, heavy countertop appliance.
Check both the counter depth and the height under your upper cabinets before you buy.
The smart humidity sensor adjusts cooking power and time, while 23 menus cover common foods such as pizza, potatoes, beverages and vegetables.
Sensor cooking can help with reheating and common foods where moisture changes during cooking.
Auto defrost can use weight or time settings for meat, poultry and fish.
ECO mode, a mute option, memory function, multi-stage cooking and a child safety lock add control for busy family kitchens.
The mute option can help in a shared home, while memory and multi-stage settings suit repeated routines.
Choose it when turntable diameter matters as much as cubic feet.
If you want similar capacity with inverter cooking, compare the Sharp below.
The main trade-off is space, since this is one of the deepest and heaviest models in the roundup.
Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless: Best for inverter cooking
Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless: Best for inverter cooking
- 2.2 cu. ft. capacity
- 1200W output
- 16.5-inch Carousel turntable
- Inverter cooking technology
Sharp matches the TOSHIBA's capacity and turntable size, then adds inverter cooking, sensor cook and a stainless steel interior.
Pros
- Inverter cooking technology
- 16.5-inch Carousel turntable
- Weight and time defrost
Cons
- Large countertop footprint
- Optional trim kit is sold separately
The Sharp SMC2266KS is a family-size countertop microwave with 2.2 cu. ft. capacity, 1200W output and a removable 16.5-inch Carousel turntable.
It matches the TOSHIBA's stated capacity and turntable diameter, making it suitable for larger serving trays and casserole dishes.
The wide turntable helps round plates and broad dishes rotate more easily than they would in a 12.4-inch cavity.
Its inverter cooking technology sets it apart in this group.
Sensor Cook, Auto Cook, weight and time defrost, 10 power levels and 2-stage cooking give you several ways to set cooking and reheating tasks.
Those options suit users who reheat leftovers, defrost frozen foods and cook common items with presets.
The stainless steel interior, white LED display and LED interior lighting keep the design practical.
Sharp also states that the unit can be built in with an optional trim kit for a 27-inch or 30-inch custom look.
The trim kit is sold separately.
That separate purchase matters if you want a built-in look, so check the total cost and fit before ordering.
Pick Sharp when inverter cooking is a priority.
Choose TOSHIBA if its 23 menus, ECO mode and mute option fit your routine better.
Both models need a large counter, so measure your space and your largest dish before you decide.
GE Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for a 2.0 cu. ft. footprint
GE Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for a 2.0 cu. ft. footprint
- 2.0 cu. ft. capacity
- 1200W output
- 8 convenience cook settings
- Child lock
This GE offers 2.0 cu. ft. capacity and 1200W output, with sensor cooking and clear countertop clearance guidance.
Pros
- Sensor cooking
- 8 convenience cook settings
- Auto and manual defrost
Cons
- Tallest countertop model here
- Not designed for built-in installation or a trim kit
The GE Countertop Microwave gives you a large 2.0 cu. ft. interior and 1200W cooking power without moving to the 2.2 cu. ft. models.
Its outside dimensions are 24.09 W x 19.4 D x 16.69 H inches, so height deserves special attention.
That height is the tallest among the countertop models here, so check the space under your cabinets carefully.
Sensor cooking monitors moisture and adjusts cooking time.
One-touch express controls, 8 convenience cook settings, a digital display, manual and auto defrost and a child lock cover common daily tasks.
The convenience settings suit foods such as beverages, pizza, popcorn and reheats.
Manual defrost gives you more control, while auto defrost can help with common frozen foods.
GE specifies 3 inches of clearance on each side and above, 1 inch at the rear and an unobstructed bottom.
It is designed for countertop installation only and is not compatible with a trim kit.
Those clearance details are helpful because they tell you exactly how the appliance needs to be placed.
This model suits buyers who want a 2.0 cu. ft. microwave and clear airflow guidance.
Check your upper cabinet height carefully because it is the tallest countertop model here.
If height is tight, a 1.6 cu. ft. model may be easier to place even with less interior room.
GE Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for medium-large counters
GE Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for medium-large counters
- 1.6 cu. ft. capacity
- 1150W output
- 8 convenience cook settings
- Child lock
The 1.6 cu. ft. GE gives you more room than compact models without the footprint of the 2.0 and 2.2 cu. ft. picks.
Pros
- 1150W output
- Sensor cooking
- Auto and manual defrost
Cons
- Less capacity than the family-size models
- Countertop clearance is required
The 1.6 cu. ft. GE is a middle ground between compact countertop microwaves and the largest family-size cabinets.
Its 1150W output and 21.3 W x 18.7 D x 12.36 H dimensions give you more room than small models while keeping the width below 22 inches.
That balance suits many family kitchens where a 2.2 cu. ft. model would take too much counter space.
Sensor cooking adjusts time based on moisture.
One-touch express cooking, 8 convenience settings, a digital display, electronic keypad and manual and auto defrost support regular meal preparation.
The settings cover common tasks such as beverages, pizza, popcorn and reheating leftovers.
Manual defrost lets you set time and power yourself, while auto defrost can help with frozen foods.
The removable glass turntable promotes even heating, and the child lock suits shared spaces.
GE also calls for 3 inches of clearance on each side and above, 1 inch at the rear and an unobstructed bottom.
Those requirements mean you should measure the counter and the space above it before ordering.
Choose it when 1.6 cu. ft. is enough for your plates but a 2.0 or 2.2 cu. ft. cabinet would crowd the counter.
For a truly wide dish, measure the turntable and cavity before ordering.
This model is a practical choice when you want more room than a compact microwave without the footprint of the largest picks.
FRIGIDAIRE 2.2 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Microwave: Best for programmed family meals
FRIGIDAIRE 2.2 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Microwave: Best for programmed family meals
- 2.1 cu. ft. capacity
- 1200W output
- 6 pre-programmed options
- Removable glass turntable
FRIGIDAIRE gives you a large freestanding cabinet, 1200W output, a removable glass turntable and programmed food settings.
Pros
- Large capacity
- Child safety lock
- White interior finish
Cons
- Capacity data varies between the title and specifications
- Fewer stated features than the highest-ranked picks
The FRIGIDAIRE gives you a large freestanding cabinet with 1200W output, a removable glass turntable and programmed settings for common family foods.
The title states 2.2 cu. ft., while the specifications identify the capacity as 2.1 cu. ft., so verify the exact capacity before buying.
That difference is worth checking if you are comparing it directly with the 2.2 cu. ft. TOSHIBA and Sharp models.
Its dimensions are 21.26 W x 16.26 D x 13.25 H inches.
The stainless steel exterior, white interior finish and curved handle give it a different look from the black and stainless models above.
The white interior can make food easier to see while it cooks.
Six pre-programmed options include popcorn, pizza, French fries and wings or nuggets.
Auto cook, defrost, reheat, power levels and a timer cover the basic tasks.
The child safety lock helps prevent access by children.
Those features suit a family kitchen where programmed settings are used often for snacks and reheats.
Choose FRIGIDAIRE when you want a large freestanding microwave with programmed food settings.
If maximum turntable diameter is the priority, the TOSHIBA and Sharp models provide clearer 16.5-inch specifications.
Measure your counter and your largest dish, and confirm the capacity, before you make this one your final choice.
How do you choose a large microwave oven?
Choose by the largest dish you use, then confirm the outside dimensions and required clearance. Capacity alone does not tell you whether a platter will rotate or whether the microwave will fit beneath your cabinets.
What capacity do large microwave ovens need?
A 1.6 cu. ft. microwave suits larger everyday meals without the footprint of the biggest models. Move to 2.0 or 2.2 cu. ft. when you regularly heat large serving dishes, family portions or wide frozen foods.
The best 2.0 cu ft microwave options are a useful next comparison if 2.0 cu. ft. is your target. Remember that interior shape, turntable size and door opening also affect usable space.
How important is turntable diameter?
Turntable diameter matters when you heat round plates, pizzas or broad casserole dishes. The TOSHIBA and Sharp models here use 16.5-inch turntables, while the smaller TOSHIBA and BLACK+DECKER countertop models use 12.4-inch turntables.
See our guide to the best microwave with large turntable if rotating space is your main concern. Measure your usual dish across its widest point, including handles.
What clearance does a large countertop microwave need?
Clearance depends on the model, so use the stated installation guidance rather than assuming every microwave needs the same space. GE's 2.0 cu. ft. and 1.6 cu. ft. models call for 3 inches at the sides and above, 1 inch at the rear and an unobstructed bottom.
Keep the microwave on a level surface, avoid blocking vents and make sure the door can open fully. Measure the route from your delivery door to the counter as well as the final location.
Is convection useful in a large microwave?
Convection can add browning and oven-style cooking to some microwave ovens, but it is a separate cooking method from standard microwave heating. Read what convection cooking in a microwave means before paying for that feature.
None of the top family-size picks here needs convection to handle large portions. Choose it only if you also want the cooking method and have enough clearance for the appliance.
When should you choose an over-the-range model?
Choose an over-the-range microwave when freeing counter space and adding a vent fan are both priorities.
The BLACK+DECKER 1.7 cu. ft. model includes a 300 CFM, 2-speed fan and an integrated light.
That setup suits a kitchen where the microwave needs to sit above the stove and help with ventilation.
It also means installation planning matters more than with a countertop model.
Measure the opening above your range, check the cabinet space and confirm the electrical requirements before ordering.
For a countertop installation, compare the best under counter microwaves only if your kitchen supports that type of placement.
An under-counter design changes access height and installation planning.
It can also affect how you reach the controls and how you load and unload dishes.
An RV buyer should also review the best replacement microwave for RV use because vehicle cabinets and electrical limits can differ from a home kitchen.
RV cabinets may be tighter, and the available power supply can limit which models will work well.
For a home kitchen, focus on your largest dish, outside dimensions and required clearance.
A countertop model is simpler to place when you have the space, while an over-the-range model makes more sense when counter space is limited.
Do not choose the installation type based on capacity alone, since fit and ventilation often matter just as much.
What cookware works in a large microwave?
Use cookware labeled for microwave use, leave room for steam to escape and avoid metal unless the appliance instructions specifically allow it. A large cavity still needs safe container shapes and enough space for the food to heat evenly.
Our microwave cookware guide explains container choices, covers and materials. Turntable space does not make an unsafe container suitable.
Which large microwave oven should you buy?
The TOSHIBA 2.2 cu. ft. model is the best large microwave oven for most families because its 16.5-inch turntable, 1200W output and sensor features address both capacity and daily convenience.
Pick Sharp if inverter cooking matters, since the Sharp SMC2266KS also offers 2.2 cu. ft. capacity and a 16.5-inch Carousel turntable.
Pick GE's 2.0 cu. ft. model if you want a slightly smaller family-size option with clear clearance guidance.
Choose BLACK+DECKER's over-the-range model if you need a vent fan and want to keep the counter clear.
For smaller counters, the 1.2 cu. ft. TOSHIBA or 1.6 cu. ft.
GE is easier to place.
The 1.6 cu. ft. GE gives more interior room, while the 1.2 cu. ft.
TOSHIBA keeps a more compact countertop footprint.
The Chefman suits a very small kitchen, but its 0.7 cu. ft. capacity is not designed for wide family dishes.
Measure your dishes, counter and airflow space before choosing the largest cabinet.
Check the turntable diameter against your largest plate, platter or casserole dish.
Also check width, depth and height, and leave the clearance the manufacturer requires.
If space is tight, choose the largest model that still fits comfortably rather than the model with the highest capacity rating.
That final check should help you pick the microwave that works best for your kitchen.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
-
2
Best for small kitchens
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for simple countertop controls
BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop
9.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
What size is considered a large microwave oven?
A large microwave oven usually means about 1.6 to 2.2 cu. ft. of capacity. The models in this roundup range from 0.7 to 2.2 cu. ft., so check both the stated capacity and the turntable diameter before choosing one for wide plates, casserole dishes or a 16-inch pizza.
What is the best large microwave oven for a family?
The TOSHIBA 2.2 cu. ft. model is the strongest family-size choice here because it combines 1200W output with a 16.5-inch turntable and smart humidity sensing. Sharp offers the same stated capacity and turntable size with inverter cooking, while GE provides a slightly smaller 2.0 cu. ft. option.
Will a large microwave fit on my countertop?
Measure the available width, depth and height, then compare those numbers with the microwave's outside dimensions. Leave the clearance the manufacturer calls for, keep vents unobstructed and check that the door can open without hitting a wall or cabinet.
Is a 1200W microwave better for large portions?
A 1200W microwave can heat large portions quickly, but capacity and turntable size also affect daily use. The TOSHIBA, Sharp, GE 2.0 cu. ft. and FRIGIDAIRE models combine large interiors with 1200W output, while 1000W models may suit smaller dishes and lower counter demands.
Should I choose a countertop or over-the-range microwave?
Choose a countertop model when you want simpler placement and can spare the counter space. Choose an over-the-range model when you want to free the counter and need a vent fan and light, but confirm cabinet, electrical and installation requirements before ordering.
