Toshiba EM131A5C-SS Review | A Microwave Packed With Advanced Features And Plenty Of Power

The Toshiba EM131A5C SS microwave oven with smart sensor, easy clean interior, eco mode and sound On/Off technology is pitched at the customer looking for compact models that occupy minimal countertop space. Packed with advanced features, precise control settings and plenty of power, the Toshiba EM131A5C SS microwave is a compact countertop microwave oven that does not compromise on quality.

Despite its small stature, the Toshiba EM131A5C SS boasts an impressive 1.2 cubic feet of space for defrosting and preparing food. Small enough for a modest countertop yet capable of cooking meals for the whole family, Toshiba claims to have produced a standout among microwaves within this price bracket. You can compare it with other ovens in similar price range here, while you can also go for slightly pricier options, or look at these top picks for under 300 bucks, as well.  

But how does the Toshiba EM131A5C SS microwave oven with smart sensor perform when put to the test for real? More importantly, how does the EM131A5C SS microwave oven differentiate itself from similar microwaves from other major manufacturers?

Toshiba Microwave EM131A5C SS: Additional Features and Functionalities

Toshiba itself highlights the following as the most important features and selling points of the low price EM131A5C SS countertop microwave oven:

• Pre-programmed sensor menu for optimum heating of various food items like potatoes, vegetables and pizza

• 1100 watts of power to heat food quickly and thoroughly, with several adjustable power levels for cooking different types of food

• Super-bright interior light for a clear view of the items inside as they are cooking

• Two auto defrost settings and a special one-touch popcorn setting for perfect results every time

• The option of turning the buzzer and beeping sounds of the microwave on or off, enabling it to be used day or night without causing a disturbance

• Easy clean interior for total convenience - a quick wipe with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean and hygienic

• Every Toshiba EM131A5C SS ships complete with a one year warranty from the manufacturer, with dedicated aftercare available directly from Toshiba

Smart Sensor Technology for Optimum Heating

The Toshiba EM131A5C SS has been designed to heat and cook food as quickly and simply as possible, with a series of one-touch settings that automatically control the cooking process. There is a smart sensor built into the Toshiba EM131A5C, which keeps track of temperatures and humidity levels when cooking different types of food, automatically adjusting the power level as required throughout the cycle.

The control panel features several pre-programmed buttons that provide one-touch heating for a wide variety of popular foods. Defrost cycles are equally easy to control with the touch of a button, and the sensor function ensures consistent and even results by monitoring temperatures and humidity. This sets this top-of-the-range microwave apart from most comparable models in the same price range, as they rarely offer such advanced technology.

The microwave offers a low power setting, a high power setting, and a pulse setting—no more, no less. While it may not seem like much, these options are all you need to handle almost all fruits, vegetables, and other ingredients.

The microwave has an attractive appearance and runs smoothly. The spacious interior is accommodating, and it also includes several convenient pre-set functions like popcorn, rice, veggies, potatoes, and more. Additionally, it offers sensor heating for frozen pizza and entrees.

The sensor functions work exceptionally well. We tested reheating drinks and plates, frozen vegetables, and baked potatoes, and all of them turned out excellently. Our tip is to set a timer initially until you feel comfortable to avoid overcooking.

Powerful Cooking with 10 Power Settings

Digital controls allow the user to select from 10 power settings, with up to 1100 watts of power available on the maximum setting. This is more than enough to provide fast and effective warming across a wide variety of dishes, while the express controls simplify the process of cooking specific foods at the touch of a button.

Examples of its versatile functionality include defrosting muffins, cooking, baking, and preparing oatmeal. Impressively, there is even a specialist setting specifically designed to soften or melt cheese, chocolate, and butter. The Toshiba EM131A5C microwave has garnered an overwhelmingly positive response from verified customers, with rare instances of negative feedback about its power and performance.

Many customers praise its good size, powerful performance, and great price, emphasizing the convenience of its intuitive two-step power level adjustment compared to other microwaves that require multiple button presses.

One customer mentioned experiencing occasional concern due to a loud shuddering noise when turning the microwave on, while another praised the inverter technology for its precise power control, as exemplified by the flawless defrosting of two t-bone steaks without overheating or burn marks.

Toshiba EM131A5C: Put to the Test

Put the Toshiba EM131A5C to the test yourself and it’s the simplicity of the whole thing that really stands out. This is, and in every sense of the word, an exceptionally straightforward countertop microwave oven to use. Even under the microscope part of an extensive review, it’s hard to find any serious faults with the Toshiba EM131A5C.

As already touched upon, the general performance of the EM131A5C is outstanding. Irrespective of the food you are preparing, it provides surprisingly consistent heating with no hotspots, cold spots or unexpected temperature spikes. Tested across a wide variety of different dishes and recipes, the same rings true - the EM131A5C is so much more consistent than most comparable microwaves on the market.

Of course, the fact that this microwave comes with a series of pre-set controls for popular food items is also a bonus. Cooking everyday staples is often as easy as touching a single button, after which the smart sensor takes over to monitor the cooking process.

Safety concerns are nonexistent with the EM131A5C SS, which is an exceptionally sturdy and durable piece of hardware. The child safety lock is also a nice touch - something you don’t tend to find as standard with most microwaves.

Along with being easy to use and quick at doing its job, the EM131A5C also scores top points for being a comparatively quiet microwave. Certainly not nearly as noisy as a typical microwave for this kind of price, while the ability to switch off the beeping sounds if preferred is another welcome touch.

With its easy-to-clean interior, ample cooking space, and positive customer reviews, the EM131A5C SS seems like a fool-proof purchase.

Additionally, the inverter setting effectively restores frozen beverages to their original texture in just 2.5 minutes. Though some users have noted a slight noise from the turntable, overall, the microwave runs smoothly and has proven to be reliable.

This combination unit is ideal for those looking to save counter space. While it may take slightly longer to preheat than a typical air fryer due to the larger airspace, it functions well as both a microwave and an air fryer.

It's worth noting that most recipes require slightly longer cooking times and higher temperatures than a standard air fryer. Despite these minor considerations, the appliance performs admirably, delivering excellent results and providing valuable space savings.

Toshiba EM131A5C Review: Final Verdict

Take the time to get to grips with the basic features and functionalities of the EM131A5C SS and you know you’ve made a solid purchase. Inside and out, it’s got all the makings of a premium microwave oven for the price of an entry-level model.

From its fantastic smart sensor to its premium glass turntable to its easy-to-use kitchen timer, everything about the EM131A5C SS is an exercise in simplicity. 1110 watts of power, 10 settings and the ability to execute a wide variety of auto cooking functions at the touch of a button - it really is as straightforward as it gets.

Plus, there's the added bonus of the fantastically compact size of the EM 131A5C SS, making it the perfect choice for any countertop where space is limited. Toshiba, a reliable brand, has hit the mark once again with this model, currently available at its lowest price ever, offering exceptional value for money. 

The microwave offers a range of functions, including two defrost settings, and a notable feature is the ability to mute the volume to avoid loud beeping when your food is ready.

You won't be disappointed with the performance of this microwave; it cooks exceptionally well and evenly, outperforming even my previous microwave.

The touchpad is simple to use, with plenty of quick touch options, and the "One touch start" feature is particularly handy, allowing you to press a single button for the desired cooking time.

Overall, it's a great option, especially for those on a budget or looking for a straightforward and reliable microwave.

Toshiba EM131A5C Review: Full Technical Specifications

Final Thoughts

All in all, the EM131A5C SS microwave offers a compact yet powerful solution for heating and cooking. While the smaller size means caution is needed to avoid accidental burns, its ability to generate high temperatures makes up for the reduced space.

Personally, I have purchased this microwave and found it to be slightly smaller and heavier than my previous one. However, the front panel setup is user-friendly, and it excels at cooking TV dinners and popcorn. The gunmetal black color adds a touch of elegance to the kitchen.

Although the buzzing noise when turning it on may initially raise concerns, it is simply a characteristic of this microwave and not indicative of any issues. The child lock feature requires additional steps to lock and unlock, which may be worth it for households with kids.

For its size, the interior space is surprisingly roomy, fitting well under cabinets. While adjusting to the absence of a standard numeric keypad takes some time, the intuitive knob interface and the guide inside the door assist in remembering the different function levels.

Overall, this EM131A5C SS microwave proves to be a reliable and efficient option for everyday use.