Microwaves

The microwave oven changed meal prep by making it possible to heat and reheat food with ease and speed. Thanks to the innovative advances over time, you can now find a wealth of features for cooking, baking and defrosting with greater precision and convenience. But with the plethora of brands and different types of models that are available, choosing a new microwave can feel like a daunting task.

Preset buttons have eliminated the need to individually calculate power and time settings for certain frequently prepared dishes. Convection microwaves make it possible to roast, bake and broil foods like you would in an full-size oven or toaster oven.

For more precise cooking and defrosting, you can also consider a microwave with sensor cook technology. By monitoring humidity levels in the microwave, the technology can alter temperature and time settings, resulting in food that is cooked to perfection. Inverter technology also achieves more consistent heating and more precise temperature regulation, which can improve flavor and texture and even out the defrosting process.

When choosing the best microwave for you, consider where you want to place your appliance. You can choose a countertop microwave to avoid more complex installation or a built-in model to keep the kitchen more streamlined. If you plan on placing your microwave above the range, choose a model designed for that purpose because it includes a vent hood and microwave filter to disperse air particles. For built-in kitchen microwaves, always measure the area where it will be installed to ensure an exact fit.

The best microwave oven for you will also include the right features to improve your experience. Start by making a list of what capabilities you want to prioritize. Do you want a smart microwave, or one with a self-cleaning setting? In terms of energy usage, do you want something high-powered or a 700-watt microwave to keep energy usage down?

Finally, how do you want your new microwave to look? You might find a red microwave creates just the right a pop of color in your kitchen, or you might prefer sleek stainless steel to match your other major appliances. If you still feel overwhelmed with choices, you can always consult Best Buy’s microwave buying guide.