Does your kitchen feel a little too crowded? Many of us love quick, hot meals, but finding space for a full-sized microwave can be a real challenge, especially in smaller apartments or dorm rooms. That tiny corner of the counter seems to shrink every time you try to fit something new!
Choosing the perfect compact countertop microwave adds another layer of stress. You worry about getting enough power without taking up too much room. Will it actually heat your leftovers properly? Finding that sweet spot between size and performance is tricky business. We understand these struggles!
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what features matter most in a small microwave. You will learn how to find a powerful, space-saving model that fits your budget and your lifestyle perfectly. Get ready to reclaim your counter space without sacrificing your favorite speedy snacks!
Top Compact Countertop Microwave Oven Recommendations
- 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.
- 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
- 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 1000 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 1.1 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.
- 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.
- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This mandatory feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, with the option to deactivate it if not needed.
- SPACE-SAVING EXTERIOR, SPACIOUS INTERIOR: 900 watts of power and 0.9 cu. ft. inside allow for effective, efficient cooking while not taking up valuable kitchen space; glass turntable rotates for optimum cooking
- EASY SET UP: Freestanding microwave fits easily on countertop or open shelf, with 39� power cord
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: Simple, one-touch operation with convenience cooking controls; kitchen timer, child lock controls and cooking complete alarms add convenience
- EASY AUTO OR MANUAL DEFROST: Defrosting times and power levels can be programmed or set manually for optimal results
The Compact Countertop Microwave Buying Guide
Finding the right compact countertop microwave can make your small kitchen or dorm room much happier. These little powerhouses heat food fast without taking up all your counter space. We break down what you need to know before you buy.
Key Features to Look For
Good microwaves offer more than just heating power. Think about what you use your microwave for most often. These features make cooking easier.
Power Levels and Presets
- Wattage: Higher wattage (usually 700W to 1000W for compact models) means faster cooking. Low wattage is better for gentle tasks like softening butter.
- One-Touch Cooking: Look for buttons labeled “Popcorn,” “Defrost,” or “Reheat.” These save you time guessing the correct power and time.
- Timer Accuracy: A clear, easy-to-read digital timer is essential for perfect results.
Size and Capacity
- Capacity (Cubic Feet): Compact models usually range from 0.5 to 1.2 cubic feet. A 0.7 cu. ft. model fits a standard dinner plate well. Measure your space first!
- Turntable Size: Ensure the turntable is big enough for the dishes you use most. Some very small models do not have a turntable, which can lead to uneven heating.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials used affect how long your microwave lasts and how easy it is to clean.
Interior and Exterior
- Interior Lining: Stainless steel interiors are durable and easy to wipe clean. Painted metal interiors are common but can scratch over time.
- Door Material: The door should have a strong, clear window. Check that the latch feels sturdy when you close it; a flimsy door lowers the quality.
- Control Panel: Membrane keypads are generally easier to clean than raised buttons, as food crumbs cannot get trapped underneath.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about price. Small design choices make a big difference in your daily use.
Noise and Ventilation
- Operating Noise: Some microwaves sound like jet engines when running. Read reviews to see if users mention loud operation, especially if you live in a studio apartment.
- Ventilation: Ensure the microwave has proper vents. These vents must stay clear so the machine does not overheat. Poor ventilation reduces the lifespan of the unit.
User Experience and Safety
- Child Lock: A safety lock feature prevents curious kids from starting the microwave accidentally. This is a crucial quality-of-life improvement.
- Door Handle vs. Button: Some compact models use a push button to open the door. Others use a handle. Choose the style that opens easily in your tight kitchen space.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about *where* you will put this microwave. This dictates the best size and power for you.
Ideal Use Cases:
- Dorm Rooms: You need a very small footprint (0.5 to 0.7 cu. ft.) that can handle ramen and simple frozen meals. Low power usage might be a bonus here.
- Office Break Rooms: Durability and quick reheating are key. Look for stainless steel interiors because many different people use it.
- Small Apartments/RVs: You need a model that cooks evenly but does not use too much energy. A good defrost setting is very helpful for small grocery hauls.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much counter space does a compact microwave usually need?
A: Compact microwaves usually need about 18 inches wide and 14 inches deep of clear counter space. Always check the exact dimensions before buying.
Q: Are compact microwaves less powerful than large ones?
A: Not always. Many compact models still reach 1000 watts. They just have a smaller interior space, meaning the heat has less room to circulate.
Q: What is the easiest way to clean the inside of a small microwave?
A: Steam cleaning works best. Place a bowl of water with a few slices of lemon inside. Run it on high for two minutes. The steam loosens stuck-on food, making wiping easy.
Q: Should I worry about the color of the microwave?
A: Mostly no, but white interiors show spills more easily than grey or stainless steel. Black exteriors hide fingerprints better than stainless steel finishes.
Q: What is the advantage of having a turntable?
A: The turntable rotates your food. This rotation ensures that the microwaves hit all parts of your food evenly, preventing cold spots.
Q: Can I use metal pans in a microwave?
A: Never place metal in any microwave. Metal reflects the microwaves, which can cause sparks and damage the oven’s magnetron.
Q: What does “Inverter Technology” mean?
A: Inverter technology delivers consistent power at lower settings. This means that when you defrost something on 30% power, it stays at 30% power, rather than cycling on and off, which cooks food more gently.
Q: How long should a compact microwave typically last?
A: With normal use, a good quality compact microwave should last between five and ten years.
Q: Are there models without a turntable?
A: Yes, some flatbed models exist. They often use a different heating system to distribute energy. These are great if you have awkward-shaped dishes that don’t fit on a traditional spinner.
Q: What is the minimum wattage recommended for reheating coffee?
A: For simple reheating tasks like coffee or soup, a microwave with a minimum of 600 to 700 watts on a medium power setting works perfectly well.