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In every kitchen, there are a handful of staples that make cooking, prepping and everything in between easier. For some, that may be a toaster oven, for others perhaps it's a blender or juicer. However, for me, there's one that stands out the most: the microwave. Whether you're simply reheating leftovers or prepping popcorn for a movie night, a good microwave is an essential appliance in most kitchens.
Microwaves come in plenty of sizes, powers, colors and functions. Molly Price/CNET
Choosing the right microwave isn’t always straightforward. With so many models and features to sort through, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and worry about picking the wrong one. That’s where CNET’s kitchen experts come in. We’ve analyzed all the top models so you can shop with confidence and find the microwave that’s perfect for your needs.
Here's everything to know about picking the best microwave for your needs.
What is the best microwave of 2025?
After hands-on testing, we've landed on Farberware's 1,100-Watt Microwave with Smart Sensor as the best microwave of the year. It's large enough to make all of your microwaving needs possible, but still at a median price point making it the ideal choice for most customers.
Best microwaves for 2025
Molly Price/CNET Photo Gallery 1/1 Molly Price/CNET Best overall microwave Farberware with Smart Sensor Pros Roomy
Good price (less than $200)
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