Ever stare at your kitchen counter, wishing for more space? In today’s world, many of us live in smaller homes or apartments. This means every inch of counter space is precious. Finding a microwave that fits perfectly without taking over your whole area can feel like a real puzzle. You want something powerful enough to heat your snacks fast, but small enough to not crowd your coffee maker and toaster.
Choosing the right small countertop microwave involves balancing size, power, and features. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by confusing specifications and endless models. Do you need a compact 0.7 cubic foot model, or can you squeeze in a slightly larger 1.1 cubic foot option? We understand these struggles. That’s why we dove deep into the best compact options available.
This guide cuts through the noise. We will show you exactly what features matter most in a small microwave. You will learn to compare wattage, footprint dimensions, and essential functions easily. By the end of this post, you will confidently select the perfect small microwave that saves space and cooks food perfectly. Let’s explore the top compact choices designed for your countertop!
Top Small Microwave Countertop Recommendations
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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”
- 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).
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass turntable.
- Smart Sensor Technology for Optimal Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. Say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked dishes.
- 6 Preset Menus: This countertop microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like pizza, veggle, sensor reheat and more.
- 10 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.
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate
- 900 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 10.6” glass turntable
- Push-button door release for easy access
Choosing Your Perfect Small Countertop Microwave: A Buying Guide
Finding the right small microwave for your kitchen can make a big difference. These compact powerhouses offer convenience without taking up too much space. This guide helps you pick the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, check these important features. They tell you how well the microwave will work.
Power and Size
- Wattage: Small microwaves usually range from 700 to 1,000 watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking. For quick reheating, 700 watts is fine. For better cooking results, aim for 900 watts or more.
- Capacity (Cubic Feet): Small models are typically between 0.5 and 1.2 cubic feet. A 0.7 cubic foot model fits a standard dinner plate well. Measure your counter space first!
Cooking Functions
- Pre-set Programs: Look for easy buttons like “Popcorn,” “Defrost,” or “Beverage.” These take the guesswork out of cooking.
- Inverter Technology (Bonus): Some advanced models use inverter technology. This cooks food more evenly by providing steady power. Standard microwaves cycle power on and off, which can sometimes overcook edges.
Important Materials and Durability
The materials used affect how long your microwave lasts and how easy it is to clean.
Interior Build
- Cavity Material: Most small microwaves have an enamel-coated metal interior. This is easy to wipe down. Stainless steel interiors look sleek but can sometimes show fingerprints more easily.
- Turntable: Glass turntables are standard. Ensure the glass tray sits securely on the ring mechanism so it spins correctly.
Exterior Casing
The outside casing is usually plastic or painted metal. Metal casings tend to be more durable and resist scratches better than thin plastic.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all small microwaves perform the same. Pay attention to these quality markers.
What Improves Quality?
- Digital Controls: Digital touchpads are generally more accurate than old-style dial controls. They allow for precise time settings.
- Quiet Operation: Check reviews for noise levels. A quiet microwave is a big plus, especially in open-plan living spaces.
- Door Latch Strength: A solid, satisfying click when you close the door usually means the latch mechanism is sturdy.
What Reduces Quality?
- Flimsy Buttons: If the buttons feel mushy or stick, the control panel might fail sooner.
- Hot Exterior: If the outside gets extremely hot during use, the insulation might be poor. This is a safety concern and reduces efficiency.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you will use the microwave most often.
Ideal Use Cases
- Dorm Rooms/Small Apartments: Compact size is perfect here. You need enough power to heat a simple meal or soup quickly.
- Office Breakrooms: Fast defrosting and simple reheating are the main jobs. Pre-set buttons are very useful for busy coworkers.
- Secondary Kitchen Use: If you have a main oven but need a quick spot for snacks or coffee reheating, a small model saves energy and counter space.
Ease of Use
A good user experience means simple setup. You should be able to plug it in and start cooking within five minutes. Clear, bright displays help everyone use the appliance easily, even in low light.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Small Countertop Microwaves
Q: How much counter space does a “small” microwave usually take up?
A: Small microwaves generally measure about 18 inches wide, 10 inches tall, and 14 inches deep. Always measure your available spot before buying!
Q: Are small microwaves less powerful than big ones?
A: Yes, they often have lower wattage (around 700W to 900W). This means they might take slightly longer to heat large amounts of food compared to a full-sized 1200W model.
Q: Can I use metal cookware in a microwave?
A: No. Never put metal, including aluminum foil or dishes with metallic trim, inside any microwave. Metal causes sparks and can damage the appliance.
Q: What is the best wattage for reheating leftovers?
A: For reheating leftovers efficiently, look for a model offering at least 800 watts. This power level heats food through without drying it out too much.
Q: Do small microwaves have convection cooking features?
A: Rarely. Convection features (which allow baking and roasting) are usually reserved for larger, more expensive countertop models. Small microwaves focus mostly on standard microwave heating.
Q: How important is the turntable for small models?
A: The turntable is very important. It rotates the food so the microwaves hit all sides evenly. Microwaves without a turntable often result in cold spots.
Q: What does “defrost by weight” mean?
A: This feature lets you enter the weight of the frozen item. The microwave then calculates the best time and power level to thaw it safely.
Q: Is cleaning the inside difficult on these smaller units?
A: No, cleaning is usually easier because there is less surface area. Most interiors can be cleaned quickly with a damp cloth and mild soap after spills.
Q: Should I buy a microwave with a handle or a push-button door release?
A: This is personal preference. Handles are sturdy, but push-button releases save a tiny bit of counter space when the door swings open.
Q: How do I know if my small microwave is energy efficient?
A: Look for the Energy Star rating. Appliances with this label use less electricity when idling (in standby mode), saving you money over time.