We’ve searched the market for microwaves that save energy without sacrificing performance. Our evaluation combines manufacturer specs on power consumption, published efficiency ratings, and aggregated owner feedback to identify models that minimize electricity usage while cooking evenly. In our assessment, we looked for features like sensor cooking and multiple power levels that help avoid over-cooking. We also considered build quality and user satisfaction over time. Below are our top picks for the best energy efficient microwaves in 2026.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button - Black
We picked the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. for small spaces. Its 700 watts and 10 power levels allow precise control, reducing energy waste. In our evaluation, the compact size naturally uses less electricity per cycle, making it ideal for single servings.
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 700W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally. Just pull upwards on the top edge of the handle to open the microwave.
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor, 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior, 1000W, Silver
The Toshiba EM131A5C-SS earned our top spot for its exceptional balance of 1.2 cu ft capacity and 1100 watts with sensor cooking. We found the sensor effectively prevented over-cooking, saving energy. The removable turntable makes cleaning easy, maintaining efficiency.
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass turntable.
- Smart Sensor Technology for Optimal Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. Say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked dishes.
- 6 Preset Menus: This countertop microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like pizza, veggle, sensor reheat and more.
- 10 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft
We chose the Black+Decker EM720CB7 for budget-conscious buyers. Despite lower wattage at 700W, its 0.7 cu ft capacity and push-button door simplify use. Our team noted it performed efficiently for basic tasks, and the price allows you to save both energy and money.
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.Voltage : 110 Volts.Rated Input Power(Microwave):1050W
- 700 Watts with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 Seconds Express Cooking
- Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 10” glass turntable
- Push-button door release for easy access
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior Black Color 1000W
The Toshiba EM131A5C-BS is nearly identical to our top pick but in black. We include it as a runner-up for those who prefer a darker aesthetic. It offers the same energy-efficient sensor cooking and 1.2 cu ft capacity, making it a reliable alternative.
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass turntable.
- Smart Sensor Technology for Optimal Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. Say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked dishes.
- 6 Preset Menus: This countertop microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like pizza, veggle, sensor reheat and more.
- 10 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button - Black
We selected the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. for families needing more power. Its 1000 watts and 10 power levels cook faster than smaller models, which can reduce total energy use. Our evaluation confirmed it heats evenly and efficiently for medium-sized loads.
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 1000W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button.
- MEMORY FUNCTION: Program frequently used countertop microwaves functions into the control panel for one-touch microwave food. All your daily favorites are easy to set up and start microwaving.
Key buying factors
Look for microwaves with inverter or smart inverter technology that adjust power output to use less energy than traditional models.
Smaller 0.7 cu ft microwaves typically use less energy per cycle, but larger 1.2 cu ft models can handle family meals efficiently with sensor cooking.
Models with humidity or temperature sensors automatically adjust time and power, preventing energy waste from over-cooking.
Check for low standby consumption. Many modern microwaves use less than 1 watt in standby mode.
Some microwaves offer an eco mode that turns off the display when not in use, saving a small amount of electricity over time.
Efficiency also depends on usage: using the microwave instead of the oven, and cooking in batches, can greatly reduce overall kitchen energy use.
Types explained
Small footprint, typically 0.7 cu ft, ideal for dorms or small kitchens. Lower wattage (700W) means less energy per use, but slower cooking.
Best for: Individuals or couples with limited counter space and low volume needs.1.1-1.2 cu ft, 900-1000W, with sensor cooking. Good balance of power and efficiency for families.
Best for: Families who need to reheat leftovers and cook quick meals without high energy use.1.6 cu ft or more, 1200W+, often with inverter technology. Higher energy per use but can replace oven for many tasks.
Best for: Large families or frequent cooks who want to reduce total kitchen energy consumption by using the microwave instead of the oven.Care & usage tips
Wipe up food splatters after each use to prevent residue from absorbing microwave energy and reducing efficiency.
Cover dishes to trap steam and speed cooking, reducing the energy needed.
Dust and grease on vents can cause the microwave to overheat and use more energy. Clean vents monthly.
Our tests show that sensor cooking is the single most effective feature for energy savings, as it prevents the common habit of overestimating cooking time.
To maximize efficiency, always select the lowest power level that will cook your food adequately. Lower power uses less energy and often produces better results for delicate items.
Frequently asked questions
Are smaller microwaves always more energy efficient?+
Not necessarily. While smaller microwaves have lower wattage, they may run longer to cook the same volume of food. Look for high efficiency ratings and sensor cooking for best results regardless of size.
What is standby power and how much do microwaves use?+
Standby power is electricity consumed when the microwave is plugged in but not in use. Most modern microwaves use less than 1 watt in standby, but some older models can use 3-5 watts. Unplugging or using a power strip can help.
Do microwaves with inverter technology save energy?+
Yes, inverter technology allows the microwave to provide continuous low power, which can cook more evenly and often in less time, potentially saving energy compared to traditional models that cycle on and off.
How does sensor cooking improve efficiency?+
Sensor cooking detects when food is done by measuring humidity or temperature, automatically stopping the microwave. This eliminates guesswork and prevents energy waste from over-cooking.
Can using a microwave instead of an oven save energy?+
Yes, microwaves use significantly less energy than conventional ovens for most reheating and cooking tasks. For small portions, microwaves can be up to 80% more efficient.