Hamilton Beach 0.9 cu ft Microwave vs Black+Decker EM925AB9 Microwave

Both are 0.9 cu ft, 900-watt countertop microwaves with 10 power levels, a child lock and a glass turntable, so they heat food about the same. The Hamilton Beach is the safer pick for most shoppers: it has a far larger review base at a higher average rating, six auto-cook menus and a side-handle door. The Black+Decker is lighter and its push-button door suits people who dislike pulling a handle. Owners of both report the usual small-microwave limits: uneven edges and short life spans.

• Choose the Hamilton Beach if you want the model with the deeper track record of owner ratings and preset one-touch menus for popcorn, potatoes, pizza and frozen dinners.
• Choose the Black+Decker if you want a lighter unit with a push-button door and a simple digital panel for reheating and defrosting.