Imagine this: you’re craving a warm, comforting meal, but your kitchen feels cramped. You look at your counter space, and a full-sized microwave just won’t fit. This is a common problem for many home cooks, especially those living in smaller apartments, dorm rooms, or anyone who simply wants to maximize their kitchen’s open areas. Finding the perfect small countertop microwave can feel like a treasure hunt, with so many models boasting different features, sizes, and prices. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and make a choice you might later regret.
But what if you could easily find a compact microwave that heats your food perfectly, fits your limited space, and doesn’t break the bank? This guide is here to help you do just that. We’ll explore what makes a small countertop microwave a game-changer for efficiency and convenience. By the time you finish reading, you’ll understand the key features to look for, how to compare different models, and ultimately, how to pick the best small microwave that will make your kitchen life so much easier.
Our Top 5 Small Countertop Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Small Countertop Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 9.1/10
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) is a compact and stylish microwave, perfect for small kitchens and apartments. Its sleek black stainless steel finish adds a modern touch to any countertop. This 0.9 cubic foot oven packs a powerful 900-watt punch and comes loaded with features to make cooking and reheating a breeze.
What We Like:
- The **Two-Step Child Lock** is a great safety feature for families with young children.
- It offers **6 Preset Menus** for common foods like popcorn and potatoes, making cooking quick and easy.
- You get **11 Unique Power Levels** for precise cooking control, plus a clock and kitchen timer.
- The **Easy Defrost** function lets you thaw food by weight or time.
- The **One-Touch Start** is super convenient for quick heating needs.
- A **Mute Mode** lets you turn off the annoying beeps, which is a lifesaver early in the morning or late at night.
- The **LED Lighting** inside makes it easy to see your food as it cooks.
- It includes a spacious **10.6-inch Removable Turntable** that fits most standard dishes.
What Could Be Improved:
- The external dimensions, while compact, might still be a bit large for extremely tiny spaces.
- The input power of 1400 watts is higher than the output, which is normal for microwaves but worth noting for power consumption.
This TOSHIBA microwave is a fantastic choice for anyone needing a reliable and feature-rich appliance for their apartment or small kitchen. Its user-friendly design and thoughtful features make it a great addition to any home.
2. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 8.6/10
Meet your new kitchen helper, the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven. This compact 0.7 cu. ft. microwave packs a punch with 700 watts of power. It’s designed for busy lives, making quick meals and reheating leftovers super easy.
What We Like:
- It cooks food extra-quick! You get six handy presets for things like popcorn, pizza, and veggies. Plus, you can just punch in the minutes you need.
- You have lots of control with 10 power levels. Melt butter on low or cook fast on high.
- The digital controls are simple to use. Set your time and power level easily. The +30 seconds button is great for giving food a little extra heat.
- Save your favorite cooking settings with the memory function. Your go-to meals can be microwaved with just one touch.
- Safety is important. The child safety lock keeps the door shut, and you can lock the control panel too.
- Want peace and quiet? The mute button turns off annoying beeps.
- It looks good on your counter! The sleek black design fits any kitchen. Eco Mode helps save power and dims the display.
- Cleaning is a breeze. The exterior wipes clean easily, and the glass turntable is dishwasher safe.
- Chefman stands by its quality with cETL approval and a 1-year assurance.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu. ft. size might be a bit small for very large dishes or for cooking for a big family.
- While it has presets, some users might wish for even more specialized cooking options.
This Chefman microwave offers convenience and smart features for everyday use. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and easy-to-use countertop microwave.
3. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 8.8/10
The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a handy kitchen helper that makes cooking and reheating a breeze. Its compact 0.7 cubic feet size fits nicely on most countertops. This microwave is designed for ease of use with simple buttons and a clear display. Plus, it has a cool sound mute function so you won’t be bothered by beeps.
What We Like:
- The mute function is a lifesaver for quiet kitchens or late-night snacks.
- ECO Mode saves energy by reducing standby power.
- Easy one-touch buttons and express cooking options make heating food super fast.
- It has helpful auto-cook programs for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and more.
- The child safety lock keeps little hands out of mischief.
- The interior light and 10-inch glass turntable make it easy to see and clean.
- It comes with a one-year limited warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic feet capacity might be a bit small for larger families or big meals.
- Some users might prefer more advanced features or a larger size.
This COMFEE microwave offers great convenience and energy-saving features for everyday needs. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a simple and effective countertop microwave.
4. Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts
Rating: 9.2/10
The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a handy appliance that makes cooking quick and easy. It’s a great choice for small kitchens, apartments, or dorm rooms because it doesn’t take up much space. This microwave packs a good punch with 700 watts of power, and it has lots of helpful settings.
What We Like:
- It’s very convenient for making meals fast.
- It has ten power levels and special buttons for common foods like popcorn and pizza.
- The size is just right for small spaces, but it still cooks like a bigger microwave.
- You can easily see what’s cooking thanks to the bright LED light inside.
- The LED display shows the time and has a timer.
- A child lock feature keeps little ones safe.
- The stainless steel finish is easy to wipe clean.
- Farberware is a trusted brand for kitchen items.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be a bit small for larger dishes or family meals.
- While it has many features, some users might prefer more advanced cooking options.
This Farberware microwave is a solid option for anyone needing a reliable and easy-to-use appliance for everyday cooking. It offers great convenience and essential features in a compact package.
5. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 9.0/10
Meet the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven, a compact powerhouse perfect for any kitchen. This 0.7 cubic foot stainless steel microwave makes cooking and reheating a breeze. It’s designed for simple, everyday use, fitting easily on your countertop.
What We Like:
- Easy Cooking Options: It has special buttons for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, frozen veggies, drinks, and dinner plates. Just push a button and go!
- Quick Heating: You can cook for 30 seconds with just one touch, which is super fast.
- Simple Controls: The large LED screen is easy to read, and the control panel is straightforward.
- Safety First: A child safety lock keeps little hands out.
- Convenient Turntable: The 10-inch glass turntable rotates your food for even cooking and is removable for easy cleaning.
- Easy Door Access: The push-button door release makes opening the microwave simple.
- Stylish Look: The stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen.
- Good Power: It offers 700 watts of cooking power with 10 different settings.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Capacity: At 0.7 cubic feet, it might be a bit small for very large dishes or family-sized meals.
- Voltage Requirement: It requires 110 volts, which is standard in many homes, but worth noting.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for smaller kitchens or for individuals. It offers convenience and safety in a stylish package.
Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Small Countertop Microwave
Why a Small Countertop Microwave?
A small countertop microwave is a lifesaver for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or anyone who needs quick and easy cooking. These handy appliances heat up leftovers, pop popcorn, and even cook simple meals without taking up too much space. They’re perfect for reheating a cup of coffee or making a quick snack.
Key Features to Look For
Power (Wattage)
Microwave power is measured in watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking. For most small microwaves, 700 to 1000 watts is a good range. A 700-watt microwave is fine for basic tasks. A 1000-watt microwave cooks food a bit quicker.
Capacity (Cubic Feet)
This tells you how much food can fit inside. Small microwaves usually range from 0.5 to 1.0 cubic feet. A 0.7 cubic foot microwave is good for a single serving. A 1.0 cubic foot microwave can fit a small dinner plate.
Turntable Size
The turntable is the spinning plate inside. Make sure it’s big enough for your everyday dishes. Most small microwaves have a turntable between 9 and 12 inches.
Preset Cooking Options
Many microwaves have buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or baked potatoes. These presets make cooking easier. They take the guesswork out of how long to cook something.
Child Lock Feature
This is a safety feature that prevents children from accidentally turning the microwave on. It’s a great idea if you have little ones around.
Important Materials
Most small countertop microwaves have an outer casing made of painted steel. This makes them durable and easy to clean. The inside is usually made of metal with a ceramic or enamel coating. These surfaces resist stains and are easy to wipe down. The door has a glass window so you can see your food cooking. The glass is usually tempered for safety.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Build Quality
A well-built microwave feels sturdy. The door should open and close smoothly. Buttons should be responsive. Cheaper microwaves might feel flimsy. This can mean they won’t last as long.
Even Cooking
The best microwaves cook food evenly. This means your food gets hot all the way through. Some microwaves have better heating technology than others. Reading reviews can help you find a microwave that cooks well.
Ease of Cleaning
A microwave that’s easy to clean is a big plus. Look for models with smooth interiors. Removable turntables make cleaning much simpler. Some have special non-stick coatings.
Noise Level
Some microwaves are louder than others. If your kitchen is close to living areas, a quieter model might be better. Reviews often mention how noisy a microwave is.
User Experience and Use Cases
For Students
Small microwaves are perfect for dorm rooms. Students can heat up ramen, make popcorn, or warm up frozen meals. They don’t need much counter space.
For Singles or Couples
If you live alone or with one other person, a small microwave is often all you need. It’s great for reheating leftovers or making quick lunches. It saves energy compared to a larger oven.
For Small Kitchens
When counter space is limited, a small microwave is a smart choice. It frees up room for food preparation. It still gives you the convenience of microwave cooking.
For Offices
Many offices have small microwaves for employees to use. They’re ideal for heating up lunches brought from home. They are quick and efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best wattage for a small countertop microwave?
A: For most small microwaves, 700 to 1000 watts is a good range. Higher wattage cooks food faster.
Q: How much space do I need for a small countertop microwave?
A: Measure your counter space. Also, check the microwave’s dimensions to make sure it fits. Remember to leave some space around it for ventilation.
Q: Are small microwaves as good as big ones?
A: They offer similar cooking functions. Small microwaves are best for smaller portions and reheating. They might not be ideal for cooking large meals.
Q: How do I clean a small countertop microwave?
A: Wipe the inside with a damp cloth. You can use mild soap. Remove the turntable and wash it separately. Always unplug the microwave before cleaning.
Q: Can I put metal in a small countertop microwave?
A: No, you should never put metal in a microwave. It can cause sparks and damage the appliance.
Q: What does “cubic feet” mean for microwave size?
A: Cubic feet refers to the internal volume of the microwave. It tells you how much food can fit inside.
Q: Are there microwaves with special features for healthy cooking?
A: Some models have steam cooking or sensor cooking features that can help cook food more healthily.
Q: How long does a small countertop microwave usually last?
A: With good care, a small countertop microwave can last 7 to 10 years.
Q: What is a “sensor cook” feature?
A: Sensor cook uses humidity sensors to detect when food is cooked. It automatically adjusts cooking time and power.
Q: Should I choose a digital or manual control microwave?
A: Digital controls offer more precise settings and presets. Manual controls are simpler to use.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.