Best Samsung Microwave: Top Countertop & Over-the-Range Models
Find the best Samsung microwave for your kitchen. Compare countertop and over-the-range models with sensor cooking, smart features, and large capacity options.
Ideal for: Families needing large capacity; users who prioritize simple controls and ceramic interiors.
This Samsung countertop microwave stands out for raw interior space: the 1.9 cu. ft. capacity is Samsung's largest in their countertop lineup, which means you can fit dinner plates, covered casseroles, and oversized containers without the awkward balancing act smaller units demand. The ceramic enamel interior resists scratches and wipes clean easily, a practical touch for daily wear. Sensor Cook technology adjusts heating time based on food moisture, reducing the guesswork that leads to cold spots or overcooked edges.
The optional trim kit (sold separately) lets you build this into a cabinet or wall space if your kitchen layout allows, giving you flexibility many countertop models don't offer. Preset cooking modes cover common items like frozen dinners and soup, streamlining repetitive heating tasks.
Owners frequently mention the automatic door-lock feature, which requires you to press an unlock button before opening: a security measure some find unnecessary and frustrating. A few units arrived with dents or shipping damage, so inspect packaging carefully upon delivery. The interior black finish hides food splatters better than white, a small but genuine convenience. This model suits households that regularly reheat large portions or cook for multiple people and value straightforward, proven technology over smart connectivity.
Pros
1.9 cu. ft. capacity for oversized dishes and multiple servings
Ceramic enamel interior resists scratches and simplifies cleaning
Optional trim kit enables built-in cabinet or wall installation
Cons
Automatic door lock requires unlock button press before opening
Some units reported shipping dents or quality-control inconsistencies
Key features
1.9 cu. ft. interior, the largest in Samsung's countertop range
Sensor Cook technology adjusts time and power for optimal results
Black ceramic enamel interior hides spills and resists scratching
Preset cooking modes for soup, frozen dinners, and common foods
Compatible with optional trim kit for built-in installation
#2 Pick
Best Convection & Air-Fry Hybrid
Samsung
SAMSUNG 1.2 cu. ft. Countertop Convection Microwave with Air Fry, Black Glass, MC12DB8700CKAA
4.0(54)
Power Convection cooks 30% faster. Air Fry and PowerGrill modes add versatility, though compact cavity limits large-dish placement.
Ideal for: Cooks wanting air fry and convection in compact form; smart home enthusiasts; smaller kitchen footprints.
This Samsung combines microwave, convection, air fryer, and grill modes in a 1.2 cu. ft. footprint, appealing to cooks who want multiple cooking methods without buying separate appliances. Power Convection technology merges traditional convection heating with forced hot air circulation, which speeds cooking and browns food more evenly than microwave-only units. Air Fry technology delivers crispier results with less oil: a real draw for households watching fat intake. The PowerGrill Duo feature browns and crisps exteriors while keeping interiors moist, valuable for steak, chicken, and vegetables.
Comparison to the large-capacity Samsung shows a clear trade-off: this model sacrifices interior volume for cooking-mode flexibility. The 15-inch turntable is notably large for a 1.2 cu. ft. cavity, which one detailed owner noted makes it excel at pizza-size foods and items that sit flat, even if overall capacity is modest. SmartThings app integration and voice control (Bixby, Alexa, Google Assistant) let you monitor and start cooking remotely: genuinely useful if you want to start defrost before you reach home.
The single-knob dial interface is dense with features, which some find intuitive and others find buried. Setup requires WiFi and app enrollment to unlock smart features; if you're not interested in app control, the core microwave and convection functions work fine without it. The broiler element cannot be easily removed for cleaning. Samsung recommends using the Deodorize mode to burn off residue. This model suits smaller kitchens or cooks who prioritize cooking versatility and smart automation over sheer interior space.
Pros
Power Convection cooks up to 30% faster than standard convection
Air Fry and PowerGrill modes expand cooking beyond traditional microwave
WiFi and voice control via SmartThings, Alexa, or Google Assistant
Cons
1.2 cu. ft. cavity feels tight for large dishes despite 15-inch turntable
Broiler element not removable; relies on Deodorize mode for cleaning
Key features
Power Convection technology cooks up to 30% faster with hot-air circulation
Air Fry mode for healthier fried foods with less oil
PowerGrill Duo feature browns exteriors while keeping interiors moist
WiFi-connected with SmartThings, Alexa, and Google Assistant voice control
Single-knob dial interface accesses seven cooking modes plus preset menus
Ideal for: Apartment dwellers; straightforward home cooks; users preferring simple dial controls and proven reliability.
The Toshiba 1.2 cu. ft. countertop microwave delivers straightforward functionality backed by thousands of owner reviews, with an average rating of 4.4 stars reflecting real-world reliability. At its core, the unit offers 1000W of microwave output power, ten power levels, and Smart Sensor technology that monitors food humidity and adjusts cooking time automatically: a feature that consistently earns praise for even reheating and defrosting.
Compared to the Samsung convection model, this Toshiba strips out fancy modes and keeps the interface simple: dial and button controls, preset menus for popular foods, and straightforward defrost-by-weight or defrost-by-time options. The 12.4-inch glass turntable is removable for cleaning, a practical detail owners appreciate. Six preset menus (pizza, veggie, sensor reheat, etc.) cover common tasks, and the one-touch start function lets you cook 1 to 6 minutes at full power with a single button tap.
Owner feedback highlights excellent popcorn performance with minimal unpopped kernels, even defrosting, and intuitive controls reminiscent of 1980s-style microwaves: a plus if you dislike modern touchscreen menus. A small fraction of units have experienced internal failures or warranty challenges. Toshiba's warranty policy involves sending a refund cheque rather than replacing the unit, which some find convenient and others find slow. The mute option silences beeping, useful in open-plan kitchens. This model suits apartment dwellers, offices, and straightforward home cooks who prioritize reliability and simplicity over cooking-mode variety.
Pros
Smart Sensor technology adjusts cooking time based on food humidity
Ten power levels and six preset menus cover most daily tasks
Internal reliability failures reported by a small number of owners
Warranty process involves refund cheque rather than unit replacement
Key features
1000W output power with ten adjustable power levels
Smart Sensor technology automatically adjusts cooking time and power
Six preset menus for pizza, vegetables, reheating, and more
Removable 12.4-inch glass turntable for easy cleaning
Mute function, ECO mode, and one-touch start for convenience
#4 Pick
Best Over-the-Range with Smart Integration
Samsung
SAMSUNG 1.1 Cu Ft Smart SLIM Over the Range Microwave Oven w/ 550 CFM Hood Vent, Wi-Fi, Voice Control, LED Light Bar, Sensor Cook, 1100 Watt, ME11A7710DS/AA, Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel
3.7(90)
Slim 1.1 cu. ft. design saves counter space; 550 CFM hood vent and smart automations appeal to small kitchens and tech enthusiasts.
Ideal for: Small kitchens needing ventilation above the cooktop; smart home enthusiasts; users prioritizing counter space.
Samsung's 1.1 cu. ft. Smart SLIM over-the-range microwave addresses a genuine pain point: kitchens where countertop space is already tight. The unit mounts above your cooktop, merging microwave and hood ventilation into one footprint. At 1100W of microwave power, it delivers adequate heating for most reheating, defrosting, and cooking tasks, and Sensor Cook technology ensures even results without constant babysitting.
The 550 CFM hood vent is robust enough to clear cooking smoke and odors, a real advantage over traditional over-the-range microwaves that feel like afterthoughts. WiFi connectivity and voice control (Samsung Bixby, Alexa, Google Assistant) open automation possibilities: one owner noted using the LED light bar to trigger motion-sensor automations and the fan to activate when smoke alarms trigger: subtle touches that justify smart features beyond gimmickry. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel actually works, keeping the exterior polished-looking with minimal wiping.
Where this differs from the large-capacity Samsung: the slim cavity (1.1 cu. ft.) feels tight for large covered casseroles or oversized bowls: a necessary trade-off for over-the-range installation. Control buttons on the door can be accidentally pressed while opening, and some owners find buried submenu options less intuitive than basic controls. The fan is audibly loud, a factor to weigh if your kitchen is open to living spaces. One owner mentioned the unit lasted 4-5 years before failure, typical for microwave-oven lifespan but worth noting if longevity is a priority. This model suits cooks choosing between countertop and over-the-range installation who also value smart home integration.
Pros
Over-the-range design frees up valuable kitchen counter space
550 CFM hood vent handles cooking smoke and odors effectively
WiFi and voice control enable smart home automations for light and fan
Cons
1.1 cu. ft. cavity too small for large casseroles or wide bowls
Control buttons on door prone to accidental presses when opening
Key features
1.1 cu. ft. slim cavity saves counter space above cooktop
1100W microwave power with Sensor Cook for even heating
550 CFM hood vent for efficient smoke and odor removal
WiFi-connected with voice control and smart home automations
Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish and LED light bar
#5 Pick
Most Versatile Large-Capacity Microwave
Toshiba
TOSHIBA Large Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor, 2.2 Cu.Ft, 1200W | Smart Humidity Sensor, 6 Auto Menus, Auto Defrost, ECO Mode, Mute Option, 16.5" Memory Turntable, Stainless Steel
4.2(1,714)
2.2 cu. ft. capacity with 23 preset menus and smart sensor technology; the largest option tested for family-size portions.
Ideal for: Large families cooking for multiple servings; meal-prep cooks; users wanting highest capacity and smart sensor technology.
This Toshiba stands as the largest countertop microwave in the comparison, with 2.2 cu. ft. of interior space and a 16.5-inch turntable that genuinely accommodates a 16-inch pizza or whole chicken without awkward tilting or repositioning. At 1200W output power, it heats and defrosts faster than smaller units. The Smart Humidity Sensor automatically adjusts cooking power and time, and 23 one-touch preset menus (including dedicated buttons for pizza, potato, beverage, and vegetable) make repetitive cooking genuinely convenient.
Compared to the large-capacity Samsung, this Toshiba adds more preset menus (23 versus the Samsung's cooking presets) and a higher wattage (1200W versus unspecified), though it lacks the Samsung's optional built-in trim kit. The turntable has a unique position-memory feature: if your food sits off-center, the turntable automatically positions it closest to the door when cooking finishes, a real convenience for accessibility (one wheelchair-using owner praised this detail). The unit includes mute, ECO mode, multi-stage cooking, and a child safety lock.
Owners widely praise the unit's heating consistency and defrost capabilities, though the "Frozen Pizza" preset has proven finicky: it works best on already-baked pizzas being reheated, not raw frozen dough. A handful of units have reported smoke leaking around the door seals, with Toshiba customer support sometimes offering workarounds rather than immediate replacement; warranty issues can involve lengthy back-and-forth emails. The large footprint (24.4" W × 18.2" D × 13.6" H) demands ample counter space. This model suits large families, meal-prep kitchens, and cooks who value preset convenience and turntable automation.
Pros
2.2 cu. ft. capacity fits 16-inch pizza or whole chicken without crowding
23 one-touch preset menus for pizza, potatoes, beverages, and vegetables
Position-memory turntable automatically rotates food closest to door when done
Cons
Large footprint requires substantial counter space
Door seal and smoke-leakage issues reported by some owners; warranty support can involve lengthy troubleshooting
Key features
2.2 cu. ft. interior with 16.5-inch turntable, the largest tested
1200W output power for faster heating and defrosting
Smart Humidity Sensor automatically adjusts cooking power and time
23 preset menus and multi-stage cooking for family-size meals
Position-memory turntable, mute function, ECO mode, and child safety lock
How to Choose a Samsung Microwave
Four trade-offs that actually matter when matching a samsung microwave to your kitchen.
Counter Space vs. Installation Flexibility
Start by measuring your available space and deciding between countertop and over-the-range placement. Countertop models give you freedom to position the unit anywhere and no installation cost, but consume counter real estate: critical in kitchens where prep space is already tight. Over-the-range microwaves (like the Samsung SLIM) merge ventilation and heating into one footprint, freeing counter space but requiring proper venting and installation. If you're in an apartment or unsure about permanent mounting, countertop remains the safest choice. Some Samsung countertop models offer optional trim kits for built-in cabinet installation, a middle-ground option if you want the flexibility to move units later.
Cooking Modes: Microwave-Only vs. Convection and Air Fry
Choose based on how you actually cook. Pure microwave units excels at reheating, defrosting, and cooking foods that don't need browning. Convection and air-fry models (like the Samsung 1.2 cu. ft. Convection) cook 30% faster and brown food more evenly, valuable if you roast vegetables, defrost whole chickens, or want crispier results without a separate appliance. Air fry is genuinely useful for those watching fat intake but adds complexity and cost. Consider how often you'd use modes beyond basic microwave; if 90% of your cooking is reheating leftovers, a simple sensor microwave with preset menus often delivers better value and simplicity. Evaluating sensor cooking versus convection microwaves helps clarify whether multi-mode cooking solves real problems in your kitchen.
Capacity and Turntable Size
Capacity determines what fits inside without cramping. A 1.2 cu. ft. unit suits single people and couples; 1.9 to 2.2 cu. ft. accommodates large casseroles, covered bowls, and family-size portions. Turntable diameter matters as much as cubic footage: a 15 to 16.5-inch turntable lets you fit a standard 16-inch pizza flat, while smaller turntables (12 to 13 inches) require tilting or partial cooking outside the microwave. Measure your largest regular cooking vessel and compare it to the unit's internal dimensions before buying. If you frequently prepare large meals or batch-cook for the freezer, investing in a larger capacity prevents frustration and multiple heating cycles.
Smart Features and Controls
Smart connectivity (WiFi, voice control, app monitoring) appeals to home-automation enthusiasts but adds cost and setup complexity. Samsung's SmartThings integration and voice-assistant compatibility genuinely enable automations, like triggering the vent fan or light bar from motion sensors or other smart devices: if you're already invested in that ecosystem. For most households, simple dial-and-button controls or touchscreen presets prove more reliable and frustration-free than troubleshooting WiFi disconnects or app updates. The best interface matches your tolerance for technology; if you prefer straightforward, proven simplicity, a Toshiba or Samsung without smart features delivers the same core heating performance at lower cost.
Sensor Cooking and Preset Menus
Sensor cooking technology automatically adjusts heating time and power based on food moisture, a feature that reduces cold spots and overcooking, especially useful for defrosting and reheating. Most Samsung and Toshiba models include sensor cooking, though the number of preset buttons varies. Units with 6 to 23 preset menus for pizza, soup, vegetables, and reheating save time if you cook the same items regularly. Simpler units with fewer presets require manual entry but take up less panel space and rarely malfunction; complex presets occasionally fail (like the Frozen Pizza button on some Toshibas), so don't overvalue a preset you'll use once a year. Prioritize sensor cooking as a core feature and treat abundant presets as a nice-to-have convenience.
Frequently asked
Quick answers to the questions readers ask most.
What's the difference between a countertop and over-the-range microwave?
Countertop microwaves sit on your counter and can be placed anywhere with a nearby outlet: maximum flexibility but takes up prep space. Over-the-range models mount above your cooktop, usually combining microwave heating with a hood vent for smoke extraction. Over-the-range saves counter space but requires permanent mounting and proper ventilation ducting, making it less practical for renters or temporary setups. Choose countertop if you prioritize portability and ease of installation; over-the-range if you need to reclaim counter real estate.
Is sensor cooking worth the extra cost?
Yes, if you regularly reheat and defrost. Sensor cooking automatically adjusts heating time and power based on food moisture, eliminating cold spots and rubbery edges that plague manual-timer cooking. Most Samsung and Toshiba models at every price point include sensor technology, so you're not paying a steep premium for it. The real value emerges over months of cooking; you'll notice fewer burnt edges and more even heating, especially with frozen foods and leftovers.
How big should my microwave be?
Match capacity to your household size and cooking style. Single people and couples do well with 1.2 cu. ft.; families of three to four benefit from 1.5 to 1.9 cu. ft.; large families and meal-preppers should consider 2.2 cu. ft. or larger. Don't just look at cubic footage: check the turntable diameter (15 to 16 inches lets you fit a standard pizza flat) and internal height (make sure your largest casserole dish or covered pot fits). Measure your most-used cookware before buying to avoid undersizing.
Do I need WiFi and voice control on a microwave?
Only if you're already using smart home automations and appreciate controlling appliances remotely. Voice control and app monitoring sound convenient but rarely matter day-to-day: you still have to walk food to the microwave anyway. The real value comes if you want to trigger the vent fan or light bar via motion sensors or integrate heating into broader home routines. For most households, straightforward buttons and simple presets prove more reliable and lower-maintenance than managing WiFi connectivity and app updates.
What should I look for in a warranty?
Most microwaves carry a one-year parts-and-labor warranty covering manufacturing defects. Check whether the manufacturer offers expedited replacement or if they require troubleshooting and refund-cheque resolution (which can take weeks). Some brands, like Samsung, offer customer-service support through SmartThings registration. If fast replacement matters to you, prioritize brands known for hassle-free warranty claims over those with lengthy back-and-forth support processes.
