Best Microwaves for Families

A family microwave does real work: reheating casseroles, defrosting large cuts of meat, cooking multiple portions at once. That means you need capacity (1.5 cu. ft. or more), wattage above 1000W for fast heating, and a turntable large enough to fit a dinner plate. The models below cover all of those bases.

• ✓ Sensor cooking pays off most in a family kitchen where different foods are reheated daily — it prevents overcooking without babysitting.
• ✓ A 13.5" or larger turntable fits most dinner plates; a 14"+ turntable handles platters and casserole lids.
• ✓ Child lock is worth having in a household with young children — it prevents accidental starts.
• ✓ OTR models offer the same capacity as large countertop units while freeing up counter space — worth considering if you're replacing an existing OTR.

208 models in this guide