Finding a compact microwave that packs power, precision, and style into a tiny footprint can feel like hunting for a needle in a haystack. In this guide, we’ve tested, measured, and compared the top contenders, from budget-friendly basics to feature‑rich powerhouses. Whether you’re a dorm‑dweller, a tiny‑kitchen chef, or just need a space‑saving solution, our trusted reviews break down performance, ease of use, and value, so you can pick the perfect small microwave with confidence for everyday cooking tasks daily.
Key Takeaways
- The top small microwave excels with six handy presets and multiphasic cooking for precision.
- Choose a compact microwave with memory settings for personalized, one-touch convenience.
- A quiet mute option enhances usability in shared or quiet spaces.
- Opt for stainless steel finish for durability and a modern kitchen look.
- Prioritize preset versatility and build quality when selecting the best small microwave.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft. Digital Stainless Steel Microwave 900 Watt with 6 Presets
Powerful Compact
- Six handy presets
- Memory for favorite settings
- Multiphasic cooking cycles
- BEST FOR MEMORY-READY COOKING: Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. Read More ↓
- BEST FOR HIGH-POWER PRESETS: TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus Read More ↓
- BEST FOR PUSH-BUTTON DOOR: BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ECO SILENT COOK: COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off Read More ↓
- BEST FOR SENSOR SMART COOK: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft Read More ↓
- BEST FOR COMPACT POWERHOUSE: Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power Read More ↓
- BEST FOR DIGITAL AUTO COOK: FRIGIDAIRE EMW733BLACKAMZ 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave Read More ↓
- BEST FOR RETRO KITCHEN CHARM: FRIGIDAIRE EMW788RETRO 0.7 cu. ft. Retro Microwave Read More ↓
- BEST FOR SECURE ECO COOK: COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off Read More ↓
- BEST FOR POWERFUL COMPACT: Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft. Digital Stainless Steel Microwave 900 Watt with 6 Presets Read More ↓
Product Comparison: Best The Best Small Microwave
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
This Chefman product offers EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
and LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 700W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
and DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button..
A solid choice for Best the best small microwave.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Quality build
- Good features
- Reliable performance
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Price may vary
- Limited availability
TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, Perfect for Apartment, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Black Stainless Steel
This TOSHIBA product offers Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure. and Microwave output power 900 watts, input power 1400 watts.
External dimensions 18.7x 14.7x 10.7 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 12.1 x 10.9 x 7.6 inches (WxDxH); includes 10.6-inch glass turntable. and 6 Preset Menus: This compact microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potato and more..
A solid choice for Best the best small microwave.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Quality build
- Good features
- Reliable performance
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Price may vary
- Limited availability
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft
Black+Decker EM720CB7 is a compact 0.7‑cu‑ft countertop microwave that packs 700 W of power into a sleek 17.3‑inch wide body. Its digital LED display and ten‑power‑level control let you fine‑tune heating, while pre‑programmed buttons handle popcorn, potatoes, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and dinner plates with a single press.
A push‑button door release and removable 10‑inch glass turntable make loading and cleaning effortless. Child safety lock and interior light add peace of mind, and a 30‑second express cook shortcut speeds up quick meals.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Pre‑programmed cooking shortcuts
- Large LED display
- Child safety lock
- Easy push‑button door
- Removable glass turntable
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited interior capacity
- No mute function
- No eco standby mode
COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black
COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB offers a stylish 0.7‑cu‑ft countertop microwave with 700 W output and a bright digital display. It features one‑touch express cooking from one to six minutes, plus a 30‑second boost, plus dedicated auto‑cook buttons for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and reheating.
The mute function lets you silence the beep, while the ECO mode cuts standby power by up to 50 percent, saving energy. A child safety lock, interior light, and a 10‑inch glass turntable provide convenience, and the unit comes with a one‑year limited warranty for peace of mind.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- One‑touch express cooking
- Mute function for silence
- Eco mode saves energy
- Auto‑cook preset buttons
- Child safety lock
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- No grill function
- Limited power output
- Small interior space
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4″ Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior Black Color 1000W
The Toshiba EM131A5C-BS offers a generous 1.2‑cu‑ft interior powered by 1000 watts of microwave energy, delivering fast, even heating for everyday meals. Its Smart Sensor Technology automatically reads food humidity and adjusts time and power, eliminating guesswork.
Six preset menus cover favorites like pizza, vegetables, and sensor reheat, while ten power‑level options give precise control for delicate tasks such as defrosting or boiling. The 12.4‑inch glass turntable rotates smoothly, and the one‑touch start lets you begin cooking from one to six minutes with a single press.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- 1000W high power
- Smart sensor cooking
- Six preset menus
- Easy defrost function
- Spacious interior space
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Large countertop footprint
- No inverter technology
Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless
The Farberware 0.7‑cu‑ft countertop microwave packs 700 watts of power into a compact footprint, perfect for kitchens, dorm rooms, or office spaces. Ten power levels and six one‑touch cooking programs—including popcorn, potato, and pizza—let you customize heating for a variety of foods.
Defrost by weight or time, and monitor cooking with a clear LED display that also shows a clock and timer. Interior lighting lets you watch dishes without opening the door, while a child safety lock adds peace of mind during busy meals.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Compact countertop size
- Ten power levels
- One-touch cooking options
- LED timer display
- Child safety lock
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Lower wattage output
- Limited preset options
FRIGIDAIRE EMW733BLACKAMZ 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black
The Frigidaire EMW733BLACKAMZ delivers compact power in a sleek black finish, perfect for small kitchens or dorm rooms. Its digital control panel offers intuitive access to express cooking, power level adjustments, and a convenient timer delay, while the large display keeps you informed of each cycle.
Six auto‑cook presets—popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen dinner, reheat, and beverage—take the guesswork out of everyday meals. Two dedicated defrost timers let you thaw foods precisely, and a child safety lock ensures peace of mind for families.
At just 0.7 cubic feet, it fits comfortably on countertops without sacrificing performance.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Easy digital controls
- Six auto‑cook presets
- Child safety lock
- Two defrost timers
- Compact countertop size
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited interior space
- No turntable removal
- Basic exterior design
FRIGIDAIRE EMW788RETRO 0.7 cu. ft. Retro Microwave, Black-Gold
The Frigidaire EMW788RETRO blends vintage charm with modern functionality, featuring a striking black‑gold retro aesthetic that adds personality to any countertop. Inside, a 0.7 cubic foot cavity and 700‑watt output provide reliable heating for everyday meals, while the oversized retro‑styled knob offers tactile control for speed and weight defrost functions.
A built-in child safety lock keeps curious hands safe, and the compact footprint makes it ideal for apartments or office kitchens. Its eye‑catching design pairs nostalgic style with practical features, delivering both form and function in a single appliance.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Distinct retro styling
- Oversized control knob
- Speed/weight defrost
- Child safety lock
- Compact footprint
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- No preset cooking modes
- Limited power output
- No interior lighting
COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7 Cu Ft/700W, Pearl White
The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM is a compact countertop microwave designed for busy kitchens. It offers a two-step child lock for added safety, a mute button that silences beeps, and an Eco mode that cuts standby power by half.
Cooking is simplified with one‑touch express timers ranging from 1 to 6 minutes plus a 30‑second boost, plus dedicated auto‑cook presets for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and reheating. Two defrost options—by weight or time—ensure even thawing.
The sleek design fits small spaces, and the package includes a clear instruction manual for quick setup.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Two-step child lock
- Mute button for quiet
- Eco mode saves energy
- One‑touch cooking presets
- Compact countertop size
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- No turntable rotation
- Limited power output
- No grill function
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft. Digital Stainless Steel Microwave 900 Watt with 6 Presets, Eco Mode, Mute Option, Memory Function, Child Safety Lock, Kitchen, Home, Dorm Essentials
Chefman’s 0.9‑cu‑ft digital stainless steel microwave packs 900 watts of power into a sleek, space‑saving design. Six pre‑programmed settings—popcorn, potato, pizza, veggies, beverages, and leftovers—take the guesswork out of everyday meals.
A memory function stores your favorite power level and time combos for instant recall. The unit supports multiphase cooking, allowing two separate cycles in a single session, perfect for layered dishes.
Adjustable power from low to high across ten levels offers precise control, while a mute option keeps the kitchen quiet. Ideal for apartments or dorm rooms where space and versatility matter.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Six handy presets
- Memory for favorite settings
- Multiphasic cooking cycles
- Quiet mute option
- Stainless steel finish
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Small interior capacity
- No child lock
- No convection feature
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What size should I choose for a small microwave?
Small microwaves typically range from 0.5 to 0.9 cubic feet. Choose a size that comfortably fits your countertop space while still providing enough interior volume for the dishes you plan to heat. Measure the available space and compare it to the appliance dimensions before buying.
Which power level is ideal for a compact microwave?
Look for models with 700 to 900 watts of output power; this range offers quick heating without sacrificing energy efficiency. Higher wattage can reduce cooking times, but it may also increase electricity usage. Balance your need for speed with your utility budget.
How important are preset cooking programs?
Preset programs simplify cooking by automatically selecting time and power for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or beverages. They are especially useful for beginners or busy households. However, they add to the price, so decide if you’ll actually use them before paying extra.
What features differentiate premium small microwaves from budget models?
Premium units often include sensor cooking, inverter technology, and stainless‑steel interiors that improve heating uniformity and durability. Budget models may lack these and rely on basic timer and power settings. Evaluate whether the added convenience and performance justify the higher cost for your cooking habits.
Is a turntable necessary, or are flat‑bed microwaves better?
Turntables rotate food for even heating, which is effective in most compact microwaves. Flat‑bed designs eliminate the need for a moving part and provide more usable interior space, but they rely on inverter technology to achieve uniform results. Choose based on your preference for simplicity versus interior capacity.
How do I assess the value of a small microwave?
Calculate the price per cubic foot of interior space and compare it across models. Also factor in warranty length, energy‑star ratings, and any extra accessories like grilling racks. A higher upfront price may be offset by longer durability and lower operating costs.
What should I look for in the control panel layout?
A clear, intuitive interface with tactile buttons or a responsive touchpad reduces the learning curve. Backlit displays are helpful for low‑light kitchens, and a child‑lock feature adds safety. Ensure the panel is easy to clean, as spills can quickly become sticky on glossy surfaces.