In the vibrant world of kitchen appliances, finding the right fit for smaller spaces can feel like a culinary puzzle. Whether you’re outfitting a cozy apartment, a bustling office breakroom, or a compact dorm, a small microwave is an indispensable tool for quick meals and convenient reheating. It’s about maximizing utility without sacrificing precious counter real estate.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind KitchPrep. With over 15 years immersed in the culinary equipment landscape, I’ve meticulously analyzed countless product specifications, scrutinized thousands of customer reviews, and tracked market performance to identify truly exceptional kitchen gear.
Choosing the perfect compact appliance demands careful consideration of power, features, and footprint, ensuring it seamlessly integrates into your daily routine and culinary demands. Finding the perfect compact kitchen companion is crucial for efficiency, so let our expert analysis guide you to the best small microwave to fit your culinary demands.
How To Choose The Best Small Microwave
Selecting a small microwave isn’t just about size; it’s about smart functionality and how it integrates into your lifestyle. Here’s what to consider to make the right choice:
Capacity and Footprint
Small microwaves typically range from 0.6 to 1.2 cubic feet. Consider what you’ll primarily be heating. A 0.7 cu. ft. model is perfect for single servings, popcorn bags, and standard dinner plates. If you often reheat larger bowls or family-sized portions, a 1.0 or 1.2 cu. ft. model might be more suitable, even if it’s still considered “small.” Always check the external dimensions carefully against your available counter space.
Wattage and Power Levels
Most small microwaves fall between 700 and 1200 watts. Higher wattage generally means faster and more even cooking. A 700W microwave will get the job done, but you might need to add a minute or two to recommended cooking times. Look for models with at least 10 power levels for greater control, especially for delicate tasks like melting butter or softening ice cream.
Essential Features
Beyond basic reheating, consider features like one-touch express cooking buttons (e.g., +30 seconds), pre-programmed settings for common foods (popcorn, potato, pizza), and defrost options (by weight or time). A mute function is a godsend for quiet environments, and a child safety lock provides peace of mind for families. An easy-to-clean interior, often stainless steel or enameled steel, will save you time and effort.
Quick Comparison: Best Small Microwave
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| Model | Capacity | Wattage | Best For | Key Feature | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Panasonic NN-SN686S | 1.2 Cu. Ft. | 1200W | Overall Value | Inverter Technology | Amazon |
| TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS | 1.2 Cu. Ft. | 1000W | Smart Performance | Humidity Sensor | Amazon |
| SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven | 1.1 Cu. Ft. | 1000W | Reliable Power | Orville Redenbacher’s Certified Popcorn Presets | Amazon |
| Magic Chef Compact Countertop | 1.1 Cu. Ft. | 1000W | Everyday Champion | One-Touch Cooking | Amazon |
| GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave | 1.0 Cu. Ft. | 1050W | Multi-Function | Air Fry & Convection | Amazon |
| Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave | 0.9 Cu. Ft. | 900W | Quiet Luxury | Soft Close Door | Amazon |
| FRIGIDAIRE EMW1132-RED | 1.1 Cu. Ft. | 1000W | Power & Style | Vibrant Red Finish | Amazon |
| Kenmore Countertop Microwave | 0.9 Cu. Ft. | 900W | Compact Workhorse | 6 Auto-Preset Menus | Amazon |
| Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. | 0.7 Cu. Ft. | 700W | Simple Solution | Easy Clean Interior | Amazon |
| Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 Retro | 0.7 Cu. Ft. | 700W | Retro Charm | Bebop Blue Color | Amazon |
| BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 | 0.7 Cu. Ft. | 700W | Dependable Basic | Push-Button Door | Amazon |
| Emerson MW7302B Compact | 0.7 Cu. Ft. | 700W | Essential Function | Time & Weight Defrost | Amazon |
| Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven | 0.7 Cu. Ft. | 700W | Budget Friendly | Mute Button | Amazon |
| COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB | 0.7 Cu. Ft. | 700W | Space Saver | ECO Mode | Amazon |
| Commercial Chef 0.6 Cu. Ft. | 0.6 Cu. Ft. | 700W | Ultra Compact | Mechanical Dial Controls | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Panasonic NN-SN686S
The Panasonic NN-SN686S stands out as our top pick for the best small microwave, delivering a powerful 1200 watts and a generous 1.2 cubic feet of capacity in a surprisingly compact footprint. Its core strength lies in Panasonic’s patented Inverter Technology, which provides a seamless stream of cooking power, ensuring food is heated evenly and thoroughly without the common “hot spots” or overcooked edges.
Owners consistently praise its efficiency, noting that it cooks faster and more consistently than many other models. The advanced Inverter Turbo Defrost feature is particularly lauded for its ability to thaw foods gently, preserving texture and flavor. Busy households appreciate the 14 preset menu items, quick minute timer, and the convenient push-button door release, making daily use incredibly straightforward.
For culinary enthusiasts and busy families who demand superior performance and even heating, this microwave is an excellent investment. Its ability to handle full-sized plates and casserole dishes while maintaining a sleek countertop presence makes it ideal for those who value both power and space efficiency in their kitchen. The “Keep Warm” feature is a thoughtful touch for staggered meal times.
Why it’s great
- Superior Inverter Technology for even heating
- High 1200W power for fast cooking
- Generous 1.2 cu. ft. capacity fits large dishes
- Effective Turbo Defrost function
Good to know
- Sensor technology can be hit or miss with covered food
- May require adjusting cooking times from package instructions due to higher power
- Control panel can be harder to read in dim light
2. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS offers a fantastic blend of capacity, power, and intelligent features for its price point. With 1.2 cubic feet and 1000 watts, it’s well-equipped for most daily tasks, from reheating leftovers to cooking simple meals. Its standout feature is the Smart Sensor Technology, which automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, aiming for perfectly cooked results every time.
Many users appreciate the mute mode, which allows for quiet operation—a blessing in shared living spaces or late-night snack runs. The easy defrost options by weight or time, along with six preset menus for popular items like pizza and vegetables, enhance its user-friendliness. The interior is designed for easy cleaning, and the 12.4-inch turntable ensures even heating.
This Toshiba model is a solid choice for anyone seeking a feature-rich microwave that takes some of the guesswork out of cooking. Its smart sensor technology makes it particularly appealing for busy individuals or those who want consistent results without constant monitoring. While the controls might take a moment to learn, its overall performance and thoughtful design make it a highly recommended appliance.
Why it’s great
- Smart Sensor Technology for precise cooking
- Generous 1.2 cu. ft. capacity and 1000W power
- Convenient mute function and ECO mode
- Easy defrost and one-touch start options
Good to know
- Control button placement can be confusing initially
- Door lock mechanism may require specific action to open
- Produces a more noticeable “buzz” than a hum during operation
3. SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven
Sharp has a long-standing reputation for reliable microwaves, and this 1.1 cubic foot, 1000-watt model lives up to that legacy. It’s a robust workhorse designed for consistent daily use, offering a fantastic balance of power and user-friendly features. The 12.4″ Carousel turntable ensures even cooking, a crucial aspect for perfectly heated meals and snacks.
Home cooks appreciate the simplicity of its interface, with convenient “+30 seconds” and Express Cook buttons for quick starts. The “Orville Redenbacher’s Certified Popcorn Presets” are a delightful touch, ensuring perfectly popped corn every time. Many find the push-button door opener a welcome change from pull handles, and the stainless steel finish adds a sleek, modern look to any kitchen.
This Sharp microwave is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a dependable, powerful, and easy-to-use appliance that will stand the test of time. Its straightforwardinterface and effective heating make it ideal for busy individuals, families, and office environments that need a microwave they can count on day in and day out.
Why it’s great
- 1000W power for efficient heating
- Reliable brand with a reputation for longevity
- Orville Redenbacher’s Certified Popcorn Presets
- Easy-to-disable child lock with clear instructions
Good to know
- Door closing can be a bit louder than some models
- Interior light is functional but not exceptionally bright
- Footprint requires a depth of 13″ for proper seating
4. Magic Chef Compact Countertop
The Magic Chef Compact Countertop microwave offers a robust 1.1 cubic feet capacity and 1000 watts of power, making it a versatile appliance for a variety of kitchen tasks. Its electronic controls and LED display provide a modern touch, while the 10 power levels offer precise control over cooking. This unit is designed to be a dependable everyday workhorse.
Home chefs and meal preppers frequently highlight its strong heating performance, noting that it gets things hotter much faster than previous units. The auto-defrost feature, allowing cooking by weight or time, is a convenient addition for handling frozen foods. Many are pleased with its quiet operation and the ease of disabling the child safety lock, which is a common point of frustration on other models.
This microwave is an excellent choice for individuals or small families seeking a powerful, reliable, and user-friendly appliance that can handle a full-sized dinner plate with ease. Its straightforward functionality combined with ample power makes it a great value for any kitchen needing a solid daily performer.
Why it’s great
- Strong 1000W power for quick heating
- Ample 1.1 cu. ft. capacity fits large plates
- User-friendly one-touch cooking presets
- Quiet operation and easy child lock deactivation
Good to know
- Markings on buttons could be clearer for some users
- Newer models show some cost-cutting in turntable design
- Exterior may be prone to dents during shipping
5. GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
The GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven is a true space-saver, combining microwave, air fry, convection bake, and broil functions into one compact 1.0 cubic foot appliance. With 1050 watts of microwave power, it delivers fast and even reheating, while its multi-functionality allows for a wider range of cooking possibilities without cluttering your countertop.
Users are particularly impressed with its versatility, noting that it performs all four functions effectively, from crisping fries with the air fryer to baking personal pizzas in convection mode. The quiet operation is a significant plus for shared living spaces, and the stainless steel interior is easy to wipe clean. It comes with a glass turntable, two wire racks, and a stainless crisper pan, providing all the necessary accessories for diverse cooking.
This GE appliance is perfect for dorm rooms, small apartments, or offices where every inch of counter space is precious and varied cooking options are desired. While some find the control panel illumination challenging in dim light and the beeping quite loud, its powerful performance and multi-purpose design make it a standout choice for compact, full-featured cooking.
Why it’s great
- 4-in-1 functionality (microwave, air fry, convection, broil)
- Compact footprint with a spacious 1.0 cu. ft. interior
- Quiet operation for shared spaces
- Includes crisper pan and wire racks
Good to know
- Control panel lacks backlighting, making it hard to read
- Alert beeps are notably loud and cannot be adjusted
- Some users report quality control issues with the oven functions
6. Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave
The Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave offers a premium experience in a small package, featuring a 0.9 cubic foot capacity and 900 watts of power. Its most distinctive characteristic is the “Soft Close” door, which operates 80% quieter than standard microwaves, and the overall unit is 50% quieter in operation. This design focus on reducing noise makes it a standout for peaceful kitchen environments.
Users consistently rave about the quietness and the luxurious feel of the soft-close door, which eliminates jarring clangs. The intuitive dial for time adjustment and one-touch auto buttons for common tasks like reheat, defrost, and popcorn enhance its user-friendliness. Many also appreciate the easy-to-disable child lock and mute button, offering a truly serene cooking experience.
This Breville microwave is ideal for those who prioritize a quiet, refined kitchen experience and appreciate thoughtful design touches. Its compact size makes it perfect for smaller kitchens, while its elegant silver finish and superior build quality justify its higher price point. If you’re looking for a microwave that blends seamlessly into a sophisticated home, this is a top contender.
Why it’s great
- 80% quieter soft-close door
- 50% quieter operation overall
- Intuitive dial control for precise timing
- Elegant design and high build quality
Good to know
- Higher price point than comparable models
- Interior is dark gray, making food visibility challenging
- Some units have reported quality control issues, particularly with heating
7. FRIGIDAIRE EMW1132-RED
The FRIGIDAIRE EMW1132-RED brings a splash of color and robust performance to any kitchen with its vibrant red finish. At 1.1 cubic feet and 1000 watts, this microwave is a powerful and visually striking appliance that handles daily reheating and cooking tasks with ease. Its electronic touchpad ensures precise control over the 10 power levels and various cooking programs.
Customers consistently highlight its attractive appearance, noting how the bold red brightens their kitchen space. Beyond aesthetics, the microwave is praised for its quiet operation and efficient heating, often cooking faster than older, lower-wattage models. The bright interior light and easy-to-use display contribute to a positive user experience, making it a favorite for those who value both form and function.
This Frigidaire model is an excellent choice for individuals or small families looking for a powerful, stylish, and dependable microwave. Its generous capacity and high wattage make it suitable for a wide range of foods, while its unique color adds a personal touch to your kitchen decor. It’s a solid performer that adds character.
Why it’s great
- Vibrant red color adds style to the kitchen
- Powerful 1000W for quick and even heating
- Quiet operation compared to many competitors
- Generous 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
Good to know
- Clock light is very bright and cannot be turned off
- Some users reported power loss issues after extended use
- Child lock feature requires manual deactivation if not desired
8. Kenmore Countertop Microwave
The Kenmore Countertop Microwave offers a solid 0.9 cubic feet capacity and 900 watts of power, making it a reliable choice for smaller kitchens, dorms, and offices. Its compact size doesn’t compromise on essential features, including 6 auto-preset menus, a quick one-touch start for 30 seconds to 6 minutes, and convenient defrost options by time or weight.
Many users find this microwave to be a good fit for their limited space, appreciating its ability to heat food quickly and evenly. The control panel is intuitive, and the option to disable the child lock and the notification beeper is a welcome customization for many. Its stainless steel finish provides a clean, modern aesthetic that complements various kitchen decors.
For individuals or small households seeking a dependable, no-frills microwave that performs its core functions effectively without taking up too much space, the Kenmore is a strong contender. While some note a noticeable vibration noise during operation and concerns about long-term durability, its user-friendly interface and practical features make it a valuable everyday appliance.
Why it’s great
- Good balance of capacity (0.9 cu. ft.) and power (900W)
- User-friendly 6 auto-preset menus and express cook options
- Option to disable child lock and quiet beeper
- Sleek stainless steel design
Good to know
- Turntable mechanism can be prone to misalignment
- Some users report a noticeable vibration noise during use
- Concerns about overall build quality compared to older models
9. Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop
The Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact and convenient solution for quick meals and snacks. With 700 watts of power and ten power levels, it offers sufficient flexibility for various cooking needs in a small footprint. Its auto-cook settings and defrost options make it a straightforward appliance for everyday use.
Homeowners with limited counter space appreciate its perfect size, which accommodates standard plates and bowls without overwhelming the kitchen. Many find it heats food quickly and evenly, making it a reliable choice for reheating leftovers or preparing simple dishes. The easy-to-clean interior and exterior are also frequently mentioned as positive attributes.
This Farberware microwave is well-suited for individuals, small apartments, or offices where space is a premium and a simple, effective microwave is needed. While some users note issues with the interior visibility and the lack of a mute function for the beeper, its overall performance and compact design make it a practical choice for basic microwave tasks.
Why it’s great
- Ideal compact size for small spaces
- Heats food quickly and evenly
- Easy-to-clean interior and exterior
- Multiple power levels and auto-cook settings
Good to know
- Interior visibility is poor due to dark surfaces and dim light
- Beeper is loud and cannot be muted
- Some reports of button responsiveness issues
10. Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 Retro
The Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 Retro Microwave Oven is a delightful blend of vintage aesthetics and modern functionality. With a 0.7 cubic foot capacity and 700 watts of power, it’s designed to handle everyday reheating and defrosting while adding a unique stylistic touch to your kitchen. The Bebop Blue color, among others, brings a vibrant and playful energy.
Users are consistently drawn to its retro look and vibrant color options, making it a focal point in their kitchen or dorm room. Beyond its appearance, people find it easy to use, with six power levels and convenient defrost settings by time or weight. The interior light and 360° rotating turntable ensure even cooking, and the child lock provides an added layer of safety.
This Galanz microwave is perfect for those who want to infuse their kitchen with personality and a touch of nostalgia, without sacrificing essential microwave capabilities. Its compact size and straightforward controls make it ideal for small spaces and users who appreciate a simple, yet charming, appliance.
Why it’s great
- Unique retro design and vibrant color options
- Compact 0.7 cu. ft. size for small spaces
- Easy-to-use controls and six power levels
- Child safety lock for peace of mind
Good to know
- 700W power may require longer cooking times
- Black text on some color backgrounds can be hard to read
- Learning curve for specific timed cook settings
11. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a straightforward and dependable appliance, offering a 0.7 cubic foot capacity and 700 watts of power. Designed for ease of use, it features pre-programmed buttons for common foods, ten power settings, and a clear LED digital display, making it a reliable choice for everyday microwave tasks.
Many busy individuals praise its compact size and simple controls, finding it perfect for quick meals and snacks without taking up excessive counter space. The push-button door release is convenient, and the child safety lock can be easily disabled for those who don’t need it. Its quiet operation and even heating are frequently highlighted as strong points.
This Black+Decker model is ideal for anyone seeking a no-nonsense, reliable microwave for basic reheating and cooking. Its compact design and user-friendly interface make it a great fit for dorms, small apartments, or offices where simplicity and functionality are key. Despite some reports of durability issues over time, it offers solid performance for its price.
Why it’s great
- Compact size fits well in small kitchens
- Simple, easy-to-use controls with presets
- Quiet operation and even heating
- Child safety lock is easy to disable
Good to know
- 700W may require longer cooking times
- Some users report issues with interior enamel peeling
- Non-slip feet are lacking, causing it to slide on counters
12. Emerson MW7302B Compact Countertop
The Emerson MW7302B Compact Countertop Microwave Oven is a dependable and long-lasting choice for those seeking essential microwave functionality in a small package. With 0.7 cubic feet of capacity and 700 watts of power, it’s perfectly suited for individual servings, quick snacks, and reheating leftovers. Its touch controls and LED display offer a modern, easy-to-use interface.
Many repeat buyers attest to its durability, noting that these units often last for several years even with daily use. Homeowners appreciate the convenient defrost options by time or weight, as well as the express cooking function for quick starts. The compact footprint makes it ideal for kitchens with limited counter space, and the door handle (as opposed to a push button) is a preferred feature for many.
This Emerson microwave is an excellent value for anyone needing a basic, reliable appliance that consistently performs its core functions. It’s a great fit for dorms, small apartments, or as a secondary microwave, delivering consistent results for everyday cooking tasks without unnecessary frills.
Why it’s great
- Dependable and long-lasting performance
- Compact size ideal for limited counter space
- Convenient express cooking and defrost options
- Easy-to-use basic controls
Good to know
- 700W power may mean slightly longer cooking times
- Not suitable for the largest dinner plates
- Some reports of poor manufacturer customer service
13. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven offers a compact 0.7 cubic foot capacity and 700 watts of power, making it a practical and affordable option for small spaces. It comes equipped with 10 power levels, six cooking presets, and a convenient +30 seconds button for quick adjustments, providing versatility for various heating needs.
Many users appreciate its sleek black design, which blends well with other kitchen appliances, and its easy-to-clean exterior. The built-in child safety lock, integrated into the handle, is noted for being less cumbersome than two-step locks on other models. The mute option is also a favored feature, allowing for quiet operation in shared environments like dorms or offices.
This Chefman microwave is an excellent budget-friendly choice for students, singles, or anyone needing a compact and functional microwave for basic reheating and cooking tasks. While some find the keypad requires firm presses, its overall performance, modern design, and thoughtful features like the mute button make it a strong contender in the small microwave category.
Why it’s great
- Affordable price point
- Compact size ideal for small spaces
- Integrated child safety lock in the handle
- Mute button for quiet operation
Good to know
- Keypad buttons require firm pressure to register
- 700W power means longer cooking times for some foods
- Needs to be placed against a wall to prevent sliding during button presses
14. COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave
The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a highly functional and compact appliance, perfect for tight spaces. With a 0.7 cubic foot capacity and 700 watts of power, it delivers efficient heating for everyday needs. It boasts user-friendly features like one-touch express cooking, two defrost settings, and a helpful ECO Mode for energy saving.
Dorm residents, small apartment dwellers, and office workers consistently praise its perfect size and ease of use. The mute function, allowing users to turn off all beeps, is a popular feature for maintaining a quiet environment. Many find it heats food evenly and quickly for its wattage, making it a reliable choice for quick meals and snacks.
This Comfee’ microwave is an excellent value for anyone seeking a compact, easy-to-use, and energy-efficient appliance. Its thoughtful features like the mute function and ECO mode, combined with its small footprint, make it ideal for minimalist kitchens or any setting where space and quiet operation are priorities. It’s a solid, reliable purchase for basic microwave needs.
Why it’s great
- Compact 0.7 cu. ft. size fits small spaces
- Mute function for quiet operation
- Energy-saving ECO Mode
- Easy one-touch express cooking buttons
Good to know
- 700W power means longer cooking times for some items
- Two-step child lock can be an annoyance for some users
- Some reports of interior finish cracking over time
15. Commercial Chef 0.6 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave
The Commercial Chef 0.6 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven is designed for ultimate compactness, making it an excellent choice when space is extremely limited. With 700 watts of power and mechanical dial controls, it offers a simple, no-frills approach to reheating and defrosting, perfect for those who prefer straightforward operation.
Individuals in RVs, work vans, or tiny homes particularly appreciate its minuscule footprint and robust performance for its size. The mechanical timer is easy to operate, and the six power levels provide enough flexibility for basic cooking tasks. Many users find it surprisingly powerful for its compact nature, heating food effectively despite its smaller cavity.
This Commercial Chef microwave is best suited for scenarios where a minimal footprint and basic, reliable functionality are paramount. If you need an ultra-compact solution for heating drinks, small meals, or snacks without complex digital interfaces, this mechanical dial microwave is a fantastic, durable, and highly efficient option.
Why it’s great
- Ultra-compact 0.6 cu. ft. capacity
- Simple, easy-to-use mechanical dial controls
- Durable and reliable for long-term use
- Six power levels for basic cooking needs
Good to know
- No auto-30 second button or complex presets
- 700W power means longer cooking times
- Mechanical timer might not be as precise as digital for some
Understanding the Specs
Wattage Explained
Microwave wattage directly correlates with cooking speed and efficiency. Small microwaves typically range from 700W to 1200W. A higher wattage means your food will heat up faster and more evenly. For quick reheating and basic cooking, 700W is sufficient, but you might need to add time. For more robust cooking and quicker results, aim for 900W or 1000W. Models with inverter technology, like the Panasonic NN-SN686S, maintain a consistent power level for superior results, preventing overcooked edges and cold centers.
Capacity and Turntable Size
Capacity, measured in cubic feet, dictates how much food your microwave can accommodate. For small microwaves, this usually ranges from 0.6 to 1.2 cu. ft. A 0.7 cu. ft. model is perfect for a standard dinner plate, while 1.0-1.2 cu. ft. offers more versatility for larger bowls or small casserole dishes. The turntable diameter is also crucial; ensure it’s large enough for your most frequently used plates. A removable turntable, often glass, is a key feature for even heating and easy cleaning.
FAQ
What size microwave is considered small?
Is a 700-watt microwave powerful enough?
Can I turn off the beeping sound on my microwave?
What is inverter technology in a microwave?
Are small microwaves energy efficient?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most people, the best small microwave winner is the Panasonic NN-SN686S because it combines powerful 1200W heating with advanced Inverter Technology for consistently even results. If you want smart features and quiet operation, grab the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS. And for multi-functional convenience in a compact design, nothing beats the GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven.
