Is your kitchen countertop overflowing with appliances? Do you dream of a microwave that heats your snacks without taking over your entire space? Many of us face this exact problem. Finding a small microwave that actually works well can feel like a treasure hunt. Standard models often feel too big for apartments, dorm rooms, or even just cozy kitchens. They eat up valuable cooking space!
Choosing the perfect compact microwave involves balancing size, power, and features. You want something speedy, but you don’t want to wrestle it into a tiny cabinet. This guide cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what matters when shopping for these mini powerhouses.
By the end of this post, you will know the best small microwaves available right now. We break down capacity, wattage, and essential features. Get ready to reclaim your counter space without sacrificing your late-night popcorn! Let’s dive into finding your perfect miniature marvel.
Top Small Size Microwave Recommendations
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- MEMORY FUNCTION: Program frequently used countertop microwaves functions into the control panel for one-touch microwave food. All your daily favorites are easy to set up and start microwaving.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally, and you can disable the microwave control panel using the Lock Mode.
- Mute function, settings, clock, kitchen timer, child safety lock, easy auto-cook functions: Popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen veggie, beverage, reheat
- One touch express cooking function with 1-6 minutes and plus30 seconds functions, and two defrost settings (by weight or by time)
- Energy Saving Eco Mode: Minimizing 50% standby power by turning on ECO mode
- Bright digital display, easy-to-read control panel, interior light and 10 inch glass turntable
- One year limited warranty. Express cooking options & silent mode
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.Voltage : 110 Volts.Rated Input Power(Microwave):1050W
- 700 Watts with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 Seconds Express Cooking
- Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 10” glass turntable
- Push-button door release for easy access
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”
- 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.
- 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.
- 6 Preset Menus: This compact microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potato and more.
- 11 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
- CONVENIENT MICROWAVE: Prepare quick and easy meals in a snap with our powerful microwave. It packs 700 of output power and features a range of settings for press-and-go speed.
- POWERFUL SETTINGS: This microwave has ten power levels with multi-stage cooking. You can fully customize your cooking with six one-touch options, including popcorn, potato, and pizza. Defrost by weight or by time settings to make quick work of any task.
- PERFECT SIZE: Measuring 0.7 cu ft, this microwave is the ideal small-space solution that offers full-sized cooking in a compact space. It features an easy-to-clean interior and exterior and is perfect for the home or office.
- ALL YOU NEED: This microwave has a clear LED display with a kitchen timer and clock that lets you easily keep track of time. Easy-to-view interior lighting lets you keep an eye on your dish, and a child safety lock adds additional security.
- FARBERWARE: From weeknight favorites to family feasts they'll never forget, Farberware helps today's families craft the meals that make memories and bring everyone together.
- DIGITAL PANEL: Our microwave features a Digital Control Panel that makes it really easy to use and provides choices for express cooking, altering the power level, postponing the start, setting the time, and stop/cancel features.
- CONVENIENT: Utilize the two different defrost timers to have full control over how you want your food to be warmed. Cook your personalized meals and snacks in stages.
- SAFE: Keep your little ones safe by using the Child Safety Lock that prevents inadvertent usage or access. The large display provides a clear viewing of your meals for you to keep an eye on them to make sure it cooks perfectly.
- DIFFERENT SETTINGS: Intuitive cooking settings remove the complexity from daily cooking. There are six different auto cooking settings to choose from (popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen dinner, reheat, beverage).
- 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave, Retro Design, 700 Watts, Black
- Speed/Weight Defrost
- Catchy Retro Look
- Retro Themed Over Sized Knob
- Child Safety Lock
- Compact Design: 700W output power and 1020W input power, external dimensions (WDH): 17.1 x 12.2 x 9.5 inches, internal dimensions (WDH): 11.8 x 11.7 x 8.1 inch, 9.6-inch glass turntable
- ChefDefrost Feature: The sophisticated ChefDefrost offers up to 40% faster defrosting compared to traditional methods while preserving the original texture and flavor of foods.
- 6 Auto Menus: Countertop microwave oven featuring 6 auto menu options for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potato and more.
- 11 Unique Power Levels: Customize your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility. This essential appliance is perfect for everything from warming up beverages to cooking entrees, side dishes, snacks, and much more.
- Easy to Use: The control panel includes One Touch Start with buttons to operate 1 to 6 minutes of full-power cooking, Child Lock Function, ECO Mode, Clock, and a Kitchen Timer.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Small Size Microwaves
Looking for a microwave that fits perfectly in a small kitchen, dorm room, or office break area? Small size microwaves are fantastic space savers. But just because they are small doesn’t mean they should lack power or features. This guide helps you choose the best compact companion for your heating needs.
Key Features to Look For in a Small Microwave
When shopping for a compact model, certain features make a big difference in daily use.
Power and Capacity
- Wattage: Small microwaves usually range from 600 to 1000 watts. Higher wattage heats food faster. For quick reheating, 700-800 watts is often enough.
- Capacity (Cubic Feet): Small means under 1.2 cubic feet. Look for 0.5 to 0.9 cubic feet models for truly tiny spaces. Check if your favorite plate fits inside!
Cooking Functions
- Pre-set Programs: Many small microwaves offer one-touch buttons for popcorn, pizza, or beverages. This simplifies cooking.
- Defrost Options: Ensure it has a reliable defrost setting. This feature uses lower power to safely thaw frozen items.
- Turntable Size: Even in small units, a rotating plate ensures even heating. Make sure the turntable is removable for easy cleaning.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials used affect durability and cleaning ease.
Exterior and Interior
- Exterior Casing: Most budget-friendly models use plastic or painted metal. Stainless steel exteriors look sleeker and resist fingerprints better, though they cost slightly more.
- Interior Cavity: Ceramic enamel interiors are very popular. They resist stains and scratches well, making wiping up spills simple. Grey or white interiors offer good visibility.
Controls
You will usually find two main control types:
- Dial Controls: These are simple, mechanical knobs for time and power. They are very durable and easy to use, especially for older users.
- Digital Keypads: These offer precise timing and pre-set programs. They look modern, but the membrane buttons can wear out over many years.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Good quality means reliable performance over time.
Quality Boosters
- Inverter Technology: Some higher-end small microwaves use inverter technology. This technology delivers continuous, steady power, which helps prevent edges of food from overcooking while the center stays cold.
- Quiet Operation: A well-built unit runs quietly. Read reviews to see if users complain about loud humming or buzzing sounds during operation.
- Good Door Latch: The door must open and close smoothly every time. A flimsy latch often signals lower overall build quality.
Quality Reducers
- Thin Casing: If the casing feels flimsy when you press on it, the microwave might vibrate excessively when running at high power.
- Short Warranty: A short warranty period (less than one year) suggests the manufacturer is not confident in the product’s longevity.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you will use your microwave.
Ideal Use Cases
- Dorm Rooms: Space is extremely limited, so look for models under 0.7 cubic feet. Focus on simple reheating functions.
- Small Apartments/Kitchenettes: If you cook small meals occasionally, a 0.9 cubic foot model with a decent wattage (around 900W) works well.
- Offices: Portability and low noise are key here. You want a microwave that heats your lunch fast without disturbing coworkers.
Ease of Use
Test the settings in your mind. Can you easily set the timer for one minute? Do you need to press “Start” twice for every operation? Simple interfaces reduce frustration during busy mornings.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Small Microwaves
Q: How small is a “small size” microwave?
A: Typically, small microwaves are defined as having less than 1.2 cubic feet of interior space. Many truly compact models are between 0.5 and 0.9 cubic feet.
Q: Are small microwaves less powerful than big ones?
A: Not always. While many small models are lower wattage (around 700W), some premium compact units still reach 1000W or more. Wattage determines heating speed, not just size.
Q: Can I fit a standard dinner plate inside a compact microwave?
A: You must check the internal dimensions! Many microwaves under 0.7 cubic feet cannot accommodate a 10-inch dinner plate. Measure your plate first.
Q: Do small microwaves cost less money?
A: Generally, yes, due to less material used. However, if a small microwave has advanced features like Inverter technology, it might cost the same as a larger, basic model.
Q: Is stainless steel necessary for the exterior?
A: No. Stainless steel resists rust and looks nice, but a white or black painted metal exterior works fine for interior use and is usually cheaper.
Q: Should I choose digital or dial controls?
A: Dials are simpler and very durable. Digital keypads give you exact time settings and pre-sets, which some users prefer for accuracy.
Q: What is the minimum acceptable wattage for reheating leftovers?
A: For quick reheating, aim for at least 700 watts. Anything lower may take noticeably longer to heat food evenly.
Q: How important is the turntable in a small unit?
A: It is very important. Without a turntable, you must manually stop and turn your food halfway through cooking to avoid cold spots.
Q: Are small microwaves harder to clean inside?
A: Sometimes. If the interior space is very cramped, reaching the back corners to wipe spills can be slightly trickier than in a large oven cavity.
Q: Do these models require special ventilation?
A: No. Like all countertop microwaves, they need a few inches of clearance around the sides and back for proper airflow, even if they are small.