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Best Small But Powerful Microwave

Finding a compact microwave that doesn’t sacrifice performance can feel like hunting for a needle in a haystack, but we’ve done the heavy lifting for you. In this guide we compare top-rated models that blend space‑saving design with impressive wattage, even‑steamed cooking, and smart features. Whether you’re a dorm‑dweller, a tiny‑kitchen chef, or simply craving convenience without clutter, our trusted review will help you pick the perfect powerhouse that fits your countertop and stay within your budget too today easily.

Key Takeaways

  • The top pick delivers 1100 W power in a compact design with a versatile built-in grill.
  • High wattage ensures fast, even cooking in small-space microwaves.
  • Look for preset programs to simplify everyday meals.
  • Durable finishes like stainless steel offer longevity and style.
  • Choose intuitive controls and size compatibility for your space.

Product Comparison: Best Small But Powerful Microwave

Compact Powerhouse

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button - Black

Chefman

The Chefman Countertop Microwave packs 700 watts of power into a sleek 0.7‑cu‑ft cabinet, perfect for small kitchens or dorm rooms. Its digital control panel lets you pick from six preset menus—popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers—or manually enter cooking time with the easy +30‑second button.

Ten power levels give precise heating from gentle melt to rapid cook, while the memory function stores your favorite settings for one‑touch use. A built‑in child safety lock keeps the door secure, and the compact countertop footprint fits comfortably on any countertop.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • 10 power levels
  • 6 handy presets
  • Child lock safety
  • Compact countertop footprint
  • Digital timer control

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • Limited interior space
  • No grill function
  • No sensor cooking

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ChefDefrost Pro

TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven with 11 Power Levels, ChefDefrost, Sound On/Off & Eco Mode, 0.7 Cu Ft, 700W, Black, MM-EM07PA(BK)

TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven with 11 Power Levels, ChefDefrost, Sound On/Off & Eco Mode, 0.7 Cu Ft, 700W, Black, MM-EM07PA(BK)

TOSHIBA

Toshiba’s Small Microwave delivers 700 W of cooking power in a compact 0.7‑cu‑ft chassis, ideal for apartments or office break rooms. The 9.6‑inch glass turntable rotates food evenly while six auto‑menu buttons handle popcorn, pizza, potatoes, and more with a single press.

Eleven power levels and the ChefDefrost function speed up thawing up to 40 % faster while preserving texture. Eco Mode reduces energy use, and the child‑lock safeguards accidental operation.

A clear control panel with one‑touch start and timer makes everyday reheating quick and intuitive.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • ChefDefrost speeds thawing
  • 11 power levels
  • Eco mode saves energy
  • Compact glass turntable
  • One‑touch start button

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • No stainless steel interior
  • No convection option
  • Button layout cramped

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Everyday Essentials

Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless

Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - Stainless

Farberware

The Farberware 0.7‑cu‑ft countertop microwave delivers 700 watts of power in a space‑saving design, perfect for kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices. Ten power levels and six one‑touch presets—popcorn, pizza, potato, and more—let you customize cooking with ease.

The interior lights let you monitor food, while the clear LED display shows timer and clock. A child‑safety lock adds peace of mind, and the smooth, easy‑to‑clean interior keeps maintenance simple.

Though compact, it still handles reheating, defrosting by weight or time, and basic cooking tasks efficiently.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • Compact countertop size
  • Seven hundred watt power
  • One‑touch cooking presets
  • Child safety lock
  • Easy‑clean interior

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • Limited interior space
  • No sensor cooking
  • Small turntable size

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Family-Size Power

Farberware 1.6 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1100 Watts Power, Smart Sensor Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless

Farberware 1.6 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1100 Watts Power, Smart Sensor Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - Stainless

Farberware

The Farberware 1.6‑cu‑ft countertop microwave packs a robust 1100 watts, giving you fast, even heating for larger meals and family portions. Its smart sensor auto‑cook adjusts power based on moisture levels, while ten power levels and six one‑touch presets—popcorn, pizza, potato, and more—provide versatile cooking options.

A spacious interior accommodates plates and bowls, and the LED display with clock and timer keeps you on schedule. The interior light and child‑safety lock add convenience and safety.

Though it takes up more countertop space than smaller models, its performance and capacity make it a solid choice for busy households.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • High 1100‑watt output
  • Spacious 1.6 cu ft interior
  • Smart sensor auto‑cook
  • Multiple one‑touch presets
  • LED clock and timer

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • Larger countertop footprint
  • Higher energy consumption
  • No grill function

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Mid-Size Speed

Farberware 0.9 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 900 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless Steel

Farberware 0.9 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 900 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - Stainless Steel

Farberware

The Farberware 0.9‑cu‑ft countertop microwave packs 900 watts of power into a compact footprint, perfect for dorm rooms, small kitchens, or office breakrooms. Its eight one‑touch auto‑cook presets take the guesswork out of popcorn, pizza, potatoes, frozen veggies, fresh vegetables, beverages, meat, and bread, while the ten power‑level dial lets you fine‑tune heating for delicate dishes.

The Express Cook button starts cooking instantly, and the handy +30‑second button adds time on the fly. Simple controls, a sleek black finish, and a sturdy interior make it a reliable, space‑saving workhorse for everyday meals.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • Very compact footprint
  • Eight auto‑cook presets
  • 10 power level options
  • Express start button

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • No child lock feature
  • Limited interior space
  • Turntable not removable

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Sleek Stainless Power

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. Digital Stainless Steel Microwave 1000 Watts with 6 Auto Menus, 10 Power Levels, Eco Mode, Memory, Mute Function, Child Safety Lock, Easy Clean

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. Digital Stainless Steel Microwave 1000 Watts with 6 Auto Menus, 10 Power Levels, Eco Mode, Memory, Mute Function, Child Safety Lock, Easy Clean

Chefman

Chefman’s 1.1‑cu‑ft digital stainless‑steel microwave brings 1000 watts of power to a slightly larger yet still space‑saving design. Six one‑touch Express Cook presets cover popcorn, potatoes, pizza, veggies, beverages, and leftovers, while the ten power levels let you dial in the exact intensity you need.

A handy memory function stores your favorite settings for quick reuse, and the innovative Multi‑Phase cooking lets you program two consecutive power cycles for complex dishes. The optional mute mode silences beeps for quieter operation, making it ideal for apartments, dorms, or shared office kitchens.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • High 1000‑watt power
  • Six express presets
  • Memory function saves settings
  • Multi‑Phase cooking cycles
  • Mute option for quiet

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • No grill function
  • Controls can feel stiff
  • Beep volume still audible

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Grill-Ready Microwave

Emerson MWG1191SB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Microwave with Built-In Grill Function, 1100W Power, Stainless Steel, LED Timer Display, 11 Power Levels, 9 Preset Cooking Options, Removable Glass Turntable, Child Lock

Emerson MWG1191SB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Microwave with Built-In Grill Function, 1100W Power, Stainless Steel, LED Timer Display, 11 Power Levels, 9 Preset Cooking Options, Removable Glass Turntable, Child Lock

Emerson

Emerson’s MWG1191SB combines a 1.1‑cu‑ft microwave with a built‑in grill, delivering 1100 W of power in a compact stainless‑steel shell. Eleven power levels let you fine‑tune heating, while nine preset programs cover popcorn, pizza, vegetables, and more.

The retro‑styled chromed knobs add a vintage flair, and the grill function crisps tops and browns meats without a separate appliance. A convenient defrost by weight or time feature speeds up thawing, and the sleek finish resists fingerprints for easy cleaning.

Ideal for small kitchens that need both quick reheating and grilling capability.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • Built‑in grill function
  • High 1100 W power
  • Retro control panel
  • Stainless‑steel durable finish
  • Nine preset cooking programs

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • No external grill tray
  • Large footprint for tiny spaces
  • No convection feature

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Retro Kitchen Charm

COMFEE CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave with 11 power levels, Fast Multi-stage Cooking, Turntable Reset Function Kitchen Timer, Speedy Cooking, Weight/Time Defrost, Memory function, Children Lock, 700W

COMFEE CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave with 11 power levels, Fast Multi-stage Cooking, Turntable Reset Function Kitchen Timer, Speedy Cooking, Weight/Time Defrost, Memory function, Children Lock, 700W

COMFEE’

COMFEE’s CMO‑C20M1WH is a retro‑styled 0.7‑cu‑ft microwave that packs 700 W and eleven power levels into a space‑saving design. The bright digital display and 10‑inch glass turntable make operation intuitive, while one‑touch express cooking offers 1‑6‑minute shortcuts.

Safety‑focused two‑step child lock prevents accidental use, and auto‑cook presets cover popcorn, pizza, potatoes, frozen veg, and beverages. Defrost can be set by weight or time, and a built‑in kitchen timer doubles as a clock.

Its compact size and stylish finish suit dorm rooms, apartments, or secondary kitchen counters where power and convenience matter.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • Compact 0.7 cu ft size
  • Two‑step child lock
  • One‑touch express cooking
  • Auto‑cook preset menu
  • Bright digital display

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • Limited 700 W power
  • Small interior capacity
  • No grill function

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Sleek Black Cook

Farberware 0.9 Cu. Ft. Black Microwave Oven, 900W with LED Display, 10 Power Levels, 8 Auto-Cook Presets, Express Cooking & Defrost

Farberware 0.9 Cu. Ft. Black Microwave Oven, 900W with LED Display, 10 Power Levels, 8 Auto-Cook Presets, Express Cooking & Defrost

Farberware

Designed for tight spaces, the Farberware 0.9‑cu‑ft microwave packs a punch with 900 watts of power, delivering quick reheating, cooking, and defrosting. Its sleek black finish blends with modern décor, while the LED display makes settings easy to read.

Ten power levels let you fine‑tune heat intensity, and eight one‑touch auto‑cook programs simplify popular meals like popcorn, pizza, and vegetables. The Express Cook button starts cooking instantly, and the +30‑second add‑time feature offers precise control.

Ideal for dorm rooms, RVs, or small office breakrooms, this model balances performance with compact convenience.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • Compact kitchen footprint
  • 900‑Watt fast heating
  • 10 power levels
  • 8 auto‑cook presets
  • Express start button

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • Missing turntable mechanism
  • Limited interior space

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Express Digital Control

Emerson MW7302B Compact Countertop Microwave Oven with Touch Control, LED Display, 700W, 10 Power Levels, 6 Auto Menus, Glass Turntable and Child Safe Lock, 0.7 Cu., Ft. Black

Emerson MW7302B Compact Countertop Microwave Oven with Touch Control, LED Display, 700W, 10 Power Levels, 6 Auto Menus, Glass Turntable and Child Safe Lock, 0.7 Cu., Ft. Black

Emerson

Emerson’s MW7302B brings countertop convenience to any kitchen, offering 700 watts of reliable power in a compact footprint. The intuitive touch‑control panel and bright LED display let you select from ten power levels, ensuring precise heating for delicate sauces or rapid reheating of leftovers.

Built‑in defrost functions accept both time and weight inputs, taking the guesswork out of thawing frozen items. An Express Cooking button delivers preset cooking times for quick meals, while the 99‑minute timer and memory feature store favorite settings.

Its sturdy plastic cabinet fits neatly on small counters without sacrificing essential functionality.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • Touch‑control interface
  • 10 precise power levels
  • Convenient defrost options
  • Express cooking button
  • Large digital timer

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • Only 700‑Watt output
  • Plastic interior may discolor
  • No child lock

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Buying Guide

Buying Guide: Best Small But Powerful Microwave

Capacity & Size

  • Assess the interior volume needed for typical meals
  • Measure countertop or built‑in space to ensure a proper fit
  • Look for a compact footprint without sacrificing interior space
  • Consider door swing clearance and ventilation clearance

Power & Performance

  • Prioritize wattage of 900 W or higher for faster cooking
  • Check for multiple power levels to fine‑tune heating
  • Look for quick‑start or express cooking functions
  • Verify that the microwave can handle a variety of cooking modes (defrost, reheat, bake)

Features & Controls

  • Choose intuitive digital or tactile controls for easy operation
  • Look for preset cooking programs for common foods
  • Consider a turntable versus flatbed technology for even heating
  • Check for a child lock or safety interlock feature

Safety & Convenience

  • Ensure the microwave has an automatic shut‑off timer
  • Look for a cool‑touch exterior to prevent burns
  • Check for easy‑clean interior surfaces and removable turntable
  • Consider a built‑in sensor that adjusts cooking time based on moisture levels

Energy Efficiency & Noise

  • Look for an Energy Star rating or low power consumption specifications
  • Consider models with standby power reduction features
  • Check user reviews for noise level during operation
  • Prefer a microwave with an eco‑mode that reduces energy use for light reheating

FAQs

What size should I choose for a compact yet powerful microwave?

Look for models with an interior capacity of 0.7 to 1.0 cubic feet, which fit on a countertop without taking up much space. Despite the smaller footprint, these units can still deliver 900 to 1100 watts of power, ensuring quick cooking. Check the dimensions to confirm it will fit under cabinets or on your kitchen island.

How important is wattage for a small microwave?

Wattage directly affects cooking speed and evenness; higher watts mean food heats faster and more uniformly. For a compact microwave, aim for at least 900 watts to handle most tasks, from reheating leftovers to cooking frozen meals. Lower-wattage models may save energy but often require longer cooking times and can leave cold spots.

Do I need advanced features like sensor cooking in a small microwave?

Sensor cooking can be convenient, automatically adjusting time and power based on steam levels, but it’s not essential for basic use. If you frequently cook a variety of foods and want hands‑free operation, a sensor model adds value. Otherwise, manual power settings and preset buttons provide sufficient control at a lower price point.

What should I compare when evaluating price versus performance?

Balance the microwave’s wattage, interior volume, and feature set against its cost. A slightly higher price for a 1000‑watt model with a stainless‑steel interior may offer better durability and faster cooking. Consider long‑term energy savings and warranty length as part of the overall value.

Are there any design considerations for small kitchens?

Choose a microwave with a sleek, flat front and optional built‑in mounting brackets to free up counter space. A reversible door can help fit the unit into tight corners. Additionally, models with a turntable‑less flatbed design can provide more usable interior space for oddly shaped dishes.

How do I ensure the microwave is safe and reliable?

Look for UL or ETL certification, which indicates the unit meets safety standards. Read reviews for reliability, focusing on reports of consistent heating and durability over time. A solid warranty—ideally two years or more—adds peace of mind in case of defects.

What are the best ways to clean and maintain a compact microwave?

Wipe the interior after each use with a damp cloth and mild dish soap to prevent food buildup. Use a microwave‑safe steam cleaning method—heat a bowl of water with lemon slices for a few minutes—to loosen stubborn stains. Regularly clean the door seals and exterior to keep the appliance looking new and operating efficiently.

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