The Best Microwaves in Canada

On hectic days, when all you can spare for lunch is a few precious minutes, those days become a little easier with help of one smart appliance, a microwave. However, if a microwave does not perform quickly enough if you wait for that plate of pasta impatiently, it is no longer a helpful appliance but one that only takes extra space at your countertop. Since the microwave was invented in 1946, the sole purpose was to provide efficiency and convenience. Since then, a kitchen without that appliance is an exception rather than a rule.         

Microwaves come in two types: countertop and over-the-range. The former one is literary an appliance you keep on your counter and, comparing to the second type, it has the convenience of mobility. An over-the-range microwave is the one that you have to install into the range hood above your cooktop. Today, besides comparing both types in detail, we will also introduce you to a list of the best microwaves on the market. Based on consumers’ reviews and hours of research, we made an in-depth analysis of microwaves that come in different sizes, that suit variety of budgets and lifestyles. 

Read on to find the top-rated microwaves in Canada.

Before purchasing a microwave, just like any other long-term use appliance for your kitchen, there are a few factors to consider.   

• Capacity: The capacity of a microwave describes inner space and determines what you can fit inside. A microwave that can unfreeze a whole chicken will differ from the one that can fit only a bowl of soup. If you are not planning on including a microwave into your cooking process and particularly need it to warm up your lunch, then a bigger capacity would be of no use.   
• Power settings: Analyzing your cooking routine can help to identify what power setting to look for in a microwave. If you plan to use your microwave for a variety of purposes, then look for customizable power settings. However, if all you need is to reheat coffee, pop a bag of popcorn, then a microwave with minimum adjustability, which is also more affordable, should fit into your lifestyle well enough.  
• Size/Design: A microwave is not an appliance you can put back into a pantry and take out every single time you need it. Even the smallest countertop model takes some space, and it only makes sense to keep it in the kitchen. More than that, microwaves need extra space for clearance; otherwise, they could get overheated and damaged. With that in mind, consider where the microwave will stand (leave at least three inches of space on all sides), how big it is, and how it will fit into the overall kitchen design.   
• Wattage: Wattage in a microwave defines the maximum power it can go up to. The higher the wattage level goes, the more power a microwave has, thus the faster your food will be heated. Usually, anything above 800 watts is considered high enough to make a microwave work efficiently.    

We are a buying guide that focuses on the best items available to Canadians. Other than that, when we picked the best microwaves, we spent more than 10 hours reviewing, comparing and researching. We observed many different brands, explored other buying guides’ reports and chose only items that had at least four stars on online review platforms.  

We based our decision on a few main factors: customer reviews, Amazon star rating (at least four stars) and other buying guides such as Wirecutter. We considered different kitchen sizes, budgets and design preferences so you could find the perfect microwave for your space and cooking needs. 

How does a microwave work?  

A microwave oven works with the use of microwaves that cause water molecules in the food to vibrate, which produces heat that cooks food. Through that process, microwaves are reflected inside of the oven and absorbed by food.   

How to clean a microwave?  

You can always wipe out some splashes with a wet cloth for a quick clean-up. However, one of the most efficient ways to clean your microwave is to put a bowl with water and one tablespoon of white vinegar and heat it for five minutes inside the oven. After dried-out splashes loosen, you can easily wipe everything off. 

Before you clean your microwave, check the manufacturer’s instructions, since not every appliance is vinegar-resistant.

What’s the average microwave price in Canada?  

Small countertop microwaves can be purchased for $100 to $200 on average, depends on features and brand. Over-the-range microwaves come with prices starting from $300 to $500 on average.  

Where to buy a microwave in Canada?   

You can buy any model featured in this guide on Amazon Canada. As for other retailers, you can find microwaves at Walmart, Canadian Tire and London Drugs.  

What is an average size microwave?  

Although there are some compact miniature models, an average microwave comes in width between 29 to 30 inches, height 16 to 18 inches, and depth between 15 to 16 inches.   

Can I microwave bacon?   

Surely you can. Place bacon strips on a plate previously covered with a paper towel, then cover the bacon with another piece of paper towel and microwave for four to six minutes. Note: most paper towel brands are microwave safe, however, it’s worth it checking if the paper towel you use at home can be used in the microwave before you try it.

When was the microwave invented?   

A microwave was invented in 1946 by American engineer Percy Spencer.   

What is an inverter microwave?  

An inverted technology in a microwave provides even heating and cooking that preserves the texture and flavour of food, prevents crusted edges and cold spots.