Choosing the right microwave-safe plate may sound easy, but there are a lot of options to choose from.
Depending on how you plan on using the plates, there may be an option that works best for you that you didn't even know about.
Below we review the five best microwave safe plates and review the pros and cons of each set.
Amazon Basics 6 Piece Microwave Safe Dinner Plates
This six-pack of plates comes from the AmazonBasics brand and is known for being very durable. The clean white color is an elegant and classic look.
Each plate is 10.5 inches. Most importantly, yes, these plates are microwave safe. They are actually quite rugged and durable. They are also safe to put in the freezer, dishwasher, or oven.
These plates can withstand temperatures up to 572 degrees. While your microwave will not reach that temperature, it is good to know that each dish can handle that heat!
Each plate is made of high-grade porcelain and is BPA-free, which means it is safe and a good quality set of dishes for the daily use and abuse that a family might give it.
Sweese 6 Piece Porcelain Microwave Safe Colorful Plates
If you are looking for a slightly smaller set of dishes or dishes with a little more pop of color, this six-piece set of plates by Sweese is the solution for you.
Generally considered to be more of a dessert or salad plate size, each plate is 7.5 inches. You certainly don't only have to use it for salads or desserts; it works well with all types of foods.
Also, because the plate is smaller, if you have a smaller microwave, this is an excellent set of plates for you.
What makes these plates stand out besides the beautiful blue color is that they are not round. They are square but with rounded edges, giving them a very unique design aesthetic.
In my opinion, these are the most beautiful plates of the reviewed models. Unfortunately, no other color options are available.
Like the AmazonBasics plate set, these plates are made out of durable porcelain that is lead-free and chip-resistant. This set of plates is also safe for the dishwasher, oven, and freezer.
Good Cook Microwave Plates Set of 4
Designed by Good Cook, this set of 4 plates is specifically designed to be used in the microwave. You can cook or reheat food directly on these plates. Each plate is approximately 11.5 inches.
The BPA-free plastic that is used does not get as hot as other materials may get in the microwave.
There is also a handy little tab on the plate's rim that allows you to easily pull it out of the microwave without getting your fingers in the now hot food.
Another unique feature about the Good Cook plates is the rounded lip edge that helps to prevents spills or liquids from sloshing over the sides.
Unlike other reviewed plates, this set is not safe for the oven or freezer. The design of these plates is very utilitarian and is designed more to be useful than attractive. So if you are looking for colorful or pretty plates, you should consider other plates.
There is a 100% satisfaction guarantee included with each order.
Lightweight and Durable Wheat Straw Plates
These beautiful and eco-friendly plates are made out of a surprisingly durable organic wheat straw fiber.
Because no plastic is used in the manufacturing of these plates, they are very environmentally friendly. You also do not have to worry about any BPA or other contaminants that you associate with plastics.
Just because they are made out of wheat fibers does not mean they are flimsy. Each plate is designed to be unbreakable (under normal usage) and very lightweight.
Not only are these plates very environmentally friendly, but they also look great and include four different pastel colors for a nice soft look in your dining room.
Like the Sweese set of plates, these wheat fiber plates are great for a smaller microwave, as they are only 8 inches wide.
Each plate, along with being very safe in the microwave, is also safe in the oven or freezer and very easy to clean in the dishwasher.
Disposable and Biodegradable Microwave Safe Plates
If you are looking for quality disposable and biodegradable plates that also microwave safely, these are the plates for you. If you need many plates for parties, or BBQ's or other events, you can count on these plates as the best option for you. They also look great, unlike your standard paper plate.
Each nine-inch plate is made out of sugarcane fiber, which means no plastic is used (or trees, for that matter).
It is impressive how durable these plates are, considering they are meant to be single-use.
Along with being microwave safe, they are also are safe for the freezer. Unlike a lot of paper plates, there is no wax or plastic lining. Now generally, wax plate linings prevent liquids from soaking the plate and making it tear. But these plates don't soak through even without a lining.
125 plates are included and are sure to be perfect for any occasion.
Buying Guide - How to find the best microwave safe plates for your needs
Now that we have reviewed five different types of plates, which is the best option for you, and your microwave needs? We have added a few key things to look for before making your final purchase decision.
Size:
You want to make sure that the plates you choose actually fit in your microwave. Make sure to measure your microwave turntable's inside diameter to see which size plates you can accommodate. All the plates we have reviewed have the size listed; make sure they fit!
Durability:
Not all plates are made the same. Some plates will be stronger than others; if you tend to drop a lot of plates or they will be used a lot, it may be better to go with a more robust material like porcelain.
Quantity:
How many plates do you need? Do you need these plates for an event? Many plate sets come with six plates. Will that be enough for you or too many? Check the product information to make sure that you are getting the right amount for your needs.
Design:
Microwave safe plates come in many designs, and if you are looking for something simple, we recommend the AmazonBasic plates as they are very durable and plain white. But if you are looking to spice up your dining experience with some color, make sure to check out the Sweese plates, as they may better fit your design aesthetic.