Ever tried to fit a full-sized microwave into a tiny kitchen? It feels impossible, right? Many of us live in smaller spaces, like apartments or dorm rooms, where every inch of counter space matters. Finding a microwave that heats food fast but doesn’t hog all your room can feel like a real puzzle.
The market is flooded with models, making it tough to know which small microwave actually works well. Do you need power or just portability? How do you choose between features when space is limited? These choices can lead to buyer’s remorse if you pick the wrong one.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will explore the best compact microwaves available today, focusing on performance, size, and value. By the end, you will know exactly which small microwave oven fits your needs perfectly.
Let’s dive in and find the perfect compact powerhouse for your countertop!
Top Small Microwave Ovens 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.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally. Just pull upwards on the top edge of the handle to open the microwave.
- MUTE OPTION: Silence this counter top microwave with the Audio Button, turning off any annoying beeps if you’re trying to stay quiet or not wake up your kids.
- 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.
- Precise cooking with 10 power levels: With 10 different power levels to choose from, you can fine-tune your cooking to achieve perfect results every time. Whether you need to gently cook delicate foods or quickly heat up leftovers, you'll find the right power level for your needs.
- Convenient defrost options: This microwave offers both time and weight defrost options, so you can quickly and easily thaw frozen foods without worrying about overcooking or undercooking them. Simply input the weight or time and the microwave will automatically defrost your food to perfection.
- Fast cooking with express cooking: The express cooking function allows you to quickly cook your favorite foods without having to adjust the power level or cooking time. Simply press the express button and the microwave will automatically cook your food for a predetermined amount of time.
- Large and easy-to-read digital timer: The 99-minute, 99-second digital timer is large and easy to read, making it simple to monitor your cooking progress. Whether you're cooking a big meal or just heating up a quick snack, you'll always be able to keep track of the time.
- Memory and kitchen timer function: The memory function allows you to store your favorite cooking settings for easy access later on. The kitchen timer function is also a handy feature that lets you set a timer for other kitchen tasks, such as boiling eggs or baking cookies.
- 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.
- 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave, Retro Design, 700 Watts, Black
- Speed/Weight Defrost
- Catchy Retro Look
- Retro Themed Over Sized Knob
- Child Safety Lock
- Countertop Microwave Oven: Prepare quick and easy meals in a snap with our powerful microwave ovens. It packs 700 of output power and features a range of settings for press-and-go speed
- Powerful Microwave Oven: This black microwave has 10 power levels with multi-stage cooking. You can fully customize your cooking with 6 one-touch options, including popcorn, potato, and pizza. Defrost by weight or by time settings to make quick work
- Compact Microwave: Measuring 0.7 cu ft, this small microwave is the ideal small-space solution that offers full-sized cooking in a compact space
- Microwave Oven with All You Need: Features a LED display, timer/clock,that lets you easily keep track of time. Interior lighting, 9.6" glass turntable for clear dish monitoring, and a child safety lock for added security
- Convenient Microwave: Our countertop microwave ovens features an easy-to-clean interior. Perfect for busy nights and memorable family feasts, crafting meals that create lasting memories
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Small Microwave Ovens
Picking the right small microwave oven can make your kitchen life easier. These compact helpers are perfect for small apartments, dorm rooms, or offices. This guide shows you what to look for to find the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, check these important features first. They make a big difference in how you use your microwave.
1. Size and Capacity
- Exterior Dimensions: Measure the space where the microwave will sit. Small microwaves usually range from 0.5 to 1.2 cubic feet. A smaller footprint saves counter space.
- Interior Capacity: This matters for what you can cook. A 0.7 cubic foot model fits a dinner plate well. Bigger models might fit a small casserole dish.
2. Power Levels and Cooking Presets
- Wattage: Higher wattage (usually 700W to 1000W) means faster cooking. For simple reheating, lower wattage is fine.
- One-Touch Buttons: Look for presets like “Popcorn,” “Defrost,” and “Reheat.” These buttons take the guesswork out of cooking.
3. Controls and Display
- Digital vs. Dial: Digital controls offer precise timing. Dials are simple and fast for quick heating.
- Clock/Timer: Ensure the display is bright enough to read easily in different lighting.
Important Materials and Construction
The materials used affect how long your microwave lasts and how easy it is to clean.
Interior Lining
- Painted Steel: This is common and affordable. It cleans up well but might scratch over time.
- Ceramic Enamel: This material is very durable and resists scratches better. It wipes clean easily, which is a big plus.
Exterior Casing
Most small microwaves use durable plastic or painted metal for the outside. Metal casings generally feel sturdier and handle heat better.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all small microwaves perform the same. Quality depends on a few specific factors.
Improving Quality
- Inverter Technology: This advanced feature delivers power smoothly. It cooks food more evenly than traditional microwaves.
- Quiet Operation: A well-built motor runs quietly. This is important if your kitchen is near a living area.
- Turntable Size: A glass turntable that spins smoothly ensures all food heats up evenly.
Reducing Quality (Watch Outs)
- Cheap Buttons: Buttons that feel flimsy or stick when pressed often break first.
- Hot Spots: If the microwave lacks good power distribution, some food will be cold while other parts burn. Check reviews for complaints about uneven heating.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use your microwave. This helps narrow down your choices.
Best for Dorm Rooms and Offices
For these spaces, portability and low power draw are key. A very compact, 0.5 cubic foot model with simple dial controls works perfectly for heating coffee or leftovers.
Best for Small Apartments
Apartment dwellers might need slightly more power for occasional cooking. Look for models around 0.9 to 1.0 cubic feet that include preset cooking functions for simple meals.
Ease of Cleaning
Since small microwaves sit on the counter, spills happen often. A smooth interior surface and a removable glass tray make cleaning much faster.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Small Microwave Ovens
Q: How small is a “small” microwave oven?
A: Small microwaves usually hold between 0.5 and 1.2 cubic feet inside. They are designed to take up less counter space.
Q: Do small microwaves cook slower than big ones?
A: They can cook slower if they have lower wattage (fewer watts). A 1000-watt small microwave cooks just as fast as a 1000-watt large one.
Q: Is it safe to use plastic containers in a small microwave?
A: Only use containers labeled “Microwave Safe.” Most plastics without markings can melt or leak chemicals when heated.
Q: What is the most important setting on a small microwave?
A: The Defrost setting is very useful. It thaws frozen food gently without cooking the edges.
Q: Should I worry about the noise level?
A: Yes, especially for office use. Check reviews for noise complaints. Quieter models use better fan and motor parts.
Q: What is the benefit of a microwave with Inverter Technology?
A: Inverter technology keeps the power level constant. This prevents food from getting tough or unevenly heated when defrosting or simmering.
Q: How often should I clean my small microwave?
A: Wipe down the inside every week or so. Deep clean it monthly to stop odors from building up.
Q: Can I put a small microwave in a cabinet without ventilation?
A: No. Microwaves generate heat and need space around the sides and top to let that heat escape safely. Check the manual for required clearance.
Q: Are small microwaves usually cheaper?
A: Generally, yes. Smaller capacity and fewer features mean a lower price tag compared to larger, feature-packed models.
Q: What is the standard warranty period for these ovens?
A: Most manufacturers offer a one-year warranty covering parts and labor. Check the specific brand’s policy before you buy.