1. LG LCS1112ST ($133) This midsize 1,000-watt countertop microwave is quick, quiet, and easy to use. It excels at defrosting and heating food evenly. Its one weakness when compared with pricier models: It lacks a humidity sensor, which adjusts cooking times automatically. Buy it at Best Buy. 2. Breville Quick Touch ($165) A splurge buy, Breville's state-of-the-art 1,100-watt beauty features a large LCD display, a humidity sensor, and dials for quickly adjusting the cook time and power level.