A smart microwave adds voice control, app control or scan-to-cook features to the familiar box. You can ask a voice assistant to heat a mug, start a timer without touching the door, or scan a package barcode so the oven sets the cook time. Some also add air fry or convection modes. If you only reheat coffee, a voice command may feel like a gimmick, but for hands-full cooks it can be a real help.
The six models below include Alexa-ready units, app-connected ovens and one sensor-driven combi appliance that is smart in its cooking rather than its connectivity. We have not used these products ourselves, so confirm connectivity, voice assistant support and capacity on the current listing before buying. Smart features may require a home network and a compatible phone or speaker. Placement matters as well, so leave space around the unit for ventilation and a clear line for your Wi-Fi signal.
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What to Look For
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi models enable app and voice control |
| Voice support | Check which assistant the microwave works with |
| Cooking modes | Air fry, convection and sensor modes add versatility |
| Size | Check interior and exterior size for your counter |
| Controls | A good manual panel is still useful when the app is not |
| Sensors | Humidity sensors adjust time automatically for reheating |
Specs at a Glance
| Product | Type | Size class | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Basics Alexa Microwave | Countertop | Compact | Alexa; manual keypad |
| Toshiba Smart Microwave | Countertop | Medium | Alexa; sensor cooking |
| GE Smart Countertop Microwave | Countertop | Medium | App; barcode scanning |
| Whirlpool Smart Microwave with Air Fry | Air fry combo | Medium-large | App; air fry |
| Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 | Combi | Large | Sensor-driven; multiple modes |
| Amazon Smart Oven | Combi | Medium-large | Alexa; many modes |
The 6 Best Smart Microwaves
1. Amazon Basics Microwave with Alexa
A compact countertop microwave that works with Alexa voice commands for cooking and timers. It also has an ordinary keypad.
Suits: Alexa households. Strengths: simple voice commands. Weaknesses: basic cooking features. Skip it if you want app control.
View Amazon Basics Alexa Microwave on Amazon
2. Toshiba Smart Microwave with Alexa
A Toshiba microwave with Alexa support and sensor cooking, available in several sizes.
Suits: people who like sensors. Strengths: voice and sensor cooking. Weaknesses: larger than mini microwaves. Skip it if you need a tiny model.
View Toshiba Smart Microwave on Amazon
3. GE Smart Countertop Microwave with Scan-to-Cook
A GE microwave that connects to an app and can scan barcodes on frozen foods to set cooking instructions.
Suits: frozen meal fans. Strengths: scan-to-cook technology. Weaknesses: needs an app and a network. Skip it if you dislike apps.
View GE Smart Countertop Microwave on Amazon
4. Whirlpool Smart Countertop Microwave with Air Fry
A microwave with air fry and an app, from a major appliance maker. It aims to combine two appliances in one body.
Suits: crisping and reheating. Strengths: air fry plus smart control. Weaknesses: fewer air fry results than a standalone fryer. Skip it if you only reheat.
View Whirlpool Smart Microwave with Air Fry on Amazon
5. Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1
A countertop appliance that combines microwave, air fry and convection with sensor-driven programs. It is smart in its cooking rather than in connectivity.
Suits: cooks who want versatility. Strengths: air fry and convection. Weaknesses: a large footprint. Skip it if you want Wi-Fi control.
View Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 on Amazon
6. Amazon Smart Oven
A countertop appliance with Alexa support that combines microwave, convection, air fry and broil. It has been sold as a connected oven.
Suits: Alexa fans. Strengths: many modes in one. Weaknesses: availability may change. Skip it if you prefer a basic microwave.
View Amazon Smart Oven on Amazon
Care and Setup
- Connect the microwave to Wi-Fi following the manual.
- Name the appliance clearly in the app so voice commands find it.
- Update the firmware if the maker offers it.
- Wipe the interior and sensor area regularly.
- Use microwave-safe dishes.
- Keep the vents clear.
- Clean the turntable and ring by hand.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming every smart feature works without Wi-Fi.
- Buying a voice model that does not match your assistant.
- Running it empty.
- Using metal in a microwave-only mode.
- Ignoring size when choosing a combo appliance.
- Forgetting that some combo ovens need extra clearance for ventilation.
Smart Microwave FAQ
Do smart microwaves need Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi powers the app and some voice features. The basic microwave functions work without it.
Is a smart microwave worth it?
It can be convenient if you use voice or scan-to-cook often. Otherwise a standard sensor microwave does the job.
Does air fry work in a microwave?
Combination models add a fan and heater so that food can crisp, though results differ from a standalone air fryer.
Which voice assistant should I match?
Match the model to the assistant in your home, such as Alexa. Check the listing for supported services.
The Short Version
For basic Alexa control, the Amazon Basics. For sensor cooking, the Toshiba. For frozen meals, the GE. For air fry, the Whirlpool. For versatility, the Breville Combi Wave. For an all-in-one oven, the Amazon Smart Oven.