TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Review Smart Sensor and Mute Function Tested

Description

Practical Control Panel and User-Friendly Interface

Out of the box, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS countertop microwave impressed me with its large digital display and straightforward control panel. The buttons are well spaced, and the protective film on the keypad was a nice touch during shipping, though it’s important to peel it off before use. Navigating through the 12 auto menus is surprisingly intuitive, allowing me to select the perfect settings for popular foods like pizza, potatoes, and veggies without much hassle. The digital display also doubles as a clock and countdown timer, which adds to the convenience in a busy kitchen environment.

One feature I enjoyed is the mute function—a long press on “8” silences the buzzer for those late-night reheats when you don’t want any noise. This is something I rarely see, but it’s a thoughtful addition for shared spaces like offices or apartments.

Spacious Interior and Design That Fits

The 1.2 cubic feet capacity inside this microwave is generous and fits a 12.4-inch removable turntable, which means I can easily heat a full-sized pizza without awkwardly rotating it manually. The interior dimensions, around 20.5 by 17.2 by 12.8 inches, provide ample room for larger plates or bowls, which is great for family meals or meal prepping.

Its black stainless steel exterior gives it a sleek and modern look that fits well in any kitchen style. Though it weighs about 34.6 pounds, placing it on the countertop feels sturdy and stable. The large, easy-to-grip door handle is a nice touch, especially for those who might struggle with flimsy microwave doors.

Sensor Cooking and Power Settings

The standout feature for me is the smart humidity sensor technology that automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on the food’s moisture. This sensor reheating works particularly well for staples like leftovers, frozen veggies, or even popcorn. I found it takes the guesswork out of cooking times, which means less trial and error and more consistent results.

You can also manually select from ten power levels up to 1000 watts, allowing for more customized cooking when needed. For example, I like starting my baked potatoes on high and finishing them on a lower setting to get a perfect texture. The microwave also allows quick cooking by pressing the number of minutes desired, then simply adding 30-second increments by hitting start again, which is handy for those unpredictable meal moments.

Highlights

• Sensor technology for precise reheating without overcooking
• Large interior fits most dinner plates and 12-inch pizzas comfortably
• Mute function for silent operation
• Wide range of power levels (10 options) to customize cooking

Drawbacks

• The microwave is a bit heavier than some competing models, making it less portable.
• The black stainless steel surface is prone to fingerprints and smudges, so it requires regular cleaning to maintain its sleek look.
• The turntable can be a bit noisy at times, especially when spinning heavier dishes.
• The control panel lacks a dedicated child lock feature, which might be a concern for families with young kids.

Value for Money

Considering the features packed into this countertop microwave, I find the price to quality ratio quite fair. It offers a balance between power, size, and smart cooking options that many cheaper models miss. The sensor cooking feature alone adds a layer of convenience that justifies the investment for anyone tired of undercooked or overheated leftovers.

Certain premium microwaves might offer more bells and whistles, but they often come with a higher price tag and bulkier designs. For apartment kitchens or office breakrooms where space is at a premium, this appliance hits that sweet spot between performance and affordability. The eco mode is another bonus, helping reduce energy consumption which shouldn’t be overlooked.

Product Competitors

Comparing this microwave to popular alternatives like the Panasonic NN-SN966S or the LG NeoChef series helps put its strengths and weaknesses in perspective. Panasonic’s model boasts a higher wattage and slightly larger capacity, but lacks the smart humidity sensor, which is a major convenience upgrade on the Toshiba. The LG NeoChef is known for its sleek design and faster cooking times, yet it usually comes at a steeper price.

The Toshiba stands out for its combination of user-friendly sensor technology, mute function, and ample cooking space. However, it doesn’t have the most advanced inverter technology that some rivals use for more even cooking. Also, its fingerprint-prone finish contrasts with the smudge-resistant coatings found on some competing models. Overall, it holds its own as a solid mid-range option that fits well into most kitchens without breaking the bank.

Performance and Cooking Experience

The microwave heats food evenly most of the time, thanks largely to the 12.4-inch turntable and sensor system. I didn’t notice many cold spots in my plates of leftovers or frozen meals, which is a relief compared to some older models I’ve used. The easy-clean interior also made wiping spills and splatters a breeze, an underrated feature in my opinion.

One quirky thing I noticed is that the microwave can sometimes be a bit louder during operation, especially when the fan kicks in or the turntable spins quickly. It’s not a dealbreaker but something to keep in mind if you prefer very quiet appliances.

Final Thoughts on User Experience

My kids, who are notoriously impatient with microwave cooking times, appreciated the simple one-touch cooking presets for pizza and popcorn. My coworkers liked the large digital display and countdown timer displayed clearly on the office microwave, making it easy to keep track of cooking progress.

Overall, this microwave’s blend of sensor precision, practical size, and thoughtful features like the mute button makes it a versatile and reliable kitchen helper. While it’s not perfect and has minor flaws like fingerprint susceptibility and weight, it delivers consistent performance for its price range and stands up well against several competitors.

Additional information