But more than these qualities and because of the growing competition in appliances' advancement, different brands have started to add unique features to their microwaves to keep up with the trend.
As practical buyers, we have added other qualities or features to our checklist for the best microwaves.
So without further ado, here are the best compact microwaves on the market today.
Best Small Microwaves
Here's the list of the 7 best small microwaves that are sure to transform your cooking experience.
This compact microwave from Toshiba has the perfect combination of size and power.
I like using this Toshiba microwave for over eight versatilities — microwave, air fry, convection (toast or bake), defrost, broil, sensor cook, "combi" mode, and odor removal. (The air fryer and toaster oven function is my personal favorite.)
Its microwave inverter technology helps maintain constant power levels, so it runs quietly and heats evenly and quickly.
This cubic-foot microwave has a huge internal capacity where the turntable can fit a 12-inch dinner plate.
Additionally, its odor-removal feature is key for an easier-to-clean interior, and its eco-mode option helps save power.
What I like
- Multipurpose
- User-friendly, easy to use with a digital panel large control panel
- Removable turntable and an odor-removal mode
- Eco mode lets you save more electricity
Weight: 40.8 pounds | Dimension: 20 x 20.5 x 12.8 inches | Interior Capacity: 1 cubic foot | Power: 1000 W
This countertop microwave performs all basic microwave functions well. It works best for people with limited time to spend cooking and anyone looking for a simple yet effective microwave.
This Black+Decker microwave oven is among the best-selling kitchen appliances today.
It includes features such as a glass tray turntable ring, rack, grease filters, exhaust adapter, installation kit, installation manual, and a child safety lock.
Size-wise, it is super convenient to fit and move anywhere. However, it has a small interior, so it works best in an office, dormitory, or for instant food and coffee cravings.
What I like
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- A real space-saver
- Performs all regular microwave functions well
Weight: 22.5 pounds | Dimension: 13 x 17.3 x 10.2 inches | Interior Capacity: 0.7 cubic feet | Power: 700 W
What I like best about this small countertop microwave is its bright interior lighting, easy-to-read control panel, digital LED display, and 10-inch glass turntable.
Its one-touch express cooking functions with 1-6 minutes and 30-second options, nine auto cook presets, and two defrost settings (by weight or by time) are good features for something this small.
However, this compact microwave oven has a plastic finish prone to visible fingerprint marks, which I like less because I want my appliances to look shiny and neat.
But for $81.94, you can already have this 700-watt microwave with microwaves, a signal muting option, eco mode, kitchen timer, clock, and child safety lock features.
What I like
- Large capacity, high power levels
- Memory function and intuitive control panel
- Soft interior lighting
Weight: 20.3 pounds | Dimension: 13 x 17.3 x 10.2 inches | Interior Capacity: 0.7 cubic feet | Power: 700 W
This Panasonic inverter microwave has a powerful motor that makes it ideal for reheating meals and carrying out more intensive cooking tasks.
It has patented inverter technology that produces and modifies smooth power streams and provides cooked food evenly.
Its inverter microwave's cutting-edge power inverter turbo also accelerates the defrosting process.
Additional benefits include fourteen preprogrammed menu options, a quick minute timer, a keep-warm setting, and a child safety lock feature.
This Panasonic microwave is better suited for usage as a home appliance mainly due to its higher weight compared to other models of inverter microwaves.
It is adaptable because it can be either built-in or left as a countertop microwave.
What I like
- Sleek, dual-purpose
- 14 presets menu
- Smart cooking settings with genius sensor cook
- Inverter technology
What I don't like
- Heavy
- Best for residential use only
Weight: 25.5 pounds | Dimension: 18 x 22.5 x 14.5 inches | Interior Capacity: 1.2 cubic feet | Power: 1200 W
Cooking is more efficient with its rotating glass (phonograph-looking) turntable, which aids 360 degrees of heat distribution. As a result, you may quickly enjoy delicious and fresh food.
Compared to the touch button design of other models of countertop microwaves, this one has slightly raised protruding buttons.
Although a basic design to establish a retro style, I prefer a touch control panel because these can accumulate dirt easily.
Nevertheless, its power levels can do the usual microwave function: heat meals, pop popcorn, reheat food, or even defrost meat.
What I like
- Retro design
- Small size
- Nice color
Weight: 23.1 pounds | Dimension: 17.9 x 13.8 x 10.3 inches | Interior Capacity: 0.7 cubic feet | Power: 700 W
This microwave's smart technology makes the cooking process less complicated.
When cooking, I don't need to read the instructions.
I would scan the barcode, and the GE Smart Countertop Microwave automatically adjusts power levels, defrost settings, cook times, and more, according to package instructions.
Its 900W power level is less heat power compared to other smart microwaves out there. Nevertheless, this one is lighter. That's why it has earned this spot.
What I like
- Compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon (Company) Alexa
- It can be operated remotely via an app
- Scan-to-Cook technology
What I don't like
- More expensive
- App may crash
Weight: 28 pounds | Dimension: 19 x 14.5 x 11.5 inches | Interior Capacity: 0.9 cubic feet | Power: 900 W
The 0.9 cubic feet countertop microwave has 900 watts of power output, much less than the LG NeoChef's model.
But, for a small family or a single person, this power works fine for fitting a standard-size dinner plate, cooking meals, or defrosting meat.
You may defrost using either time or weight in its auto-defrost settings.
Further features of this simple yet elegant microwave include an easy 8-quick-set menu button, a push-button door latch, an LED display, and a white exterior.
What I like
- Clean white look
- Big internal capacity
- Ergonomic size for small kitchens
Weight: 24.9 pounds | Dimension: 14.8 x 18.3 x 11 inches | Interior Capacity: 0.9 cubic feet | Power: 900 W
Best Small Microwaves Comparison Table
Buying Guide For The Best Small Microwave
Learn what to consider when buying a microwave oven—the right size, type, power, settings, design, and many more.
Practical buyers, here's your checklist guide!
Size
A small microwave's dimension is based on its external measurement (width, height, and depth—measured in inches) and internal capacity (measured in a cubic foot, often found in the product description).
For the exterior, the depth is measured from front to back, with the door closed and opened; the width is side to side; and, of course, the height is from top to bottom.
A microwave's interior, on the other hand, determines how much you can fit inside the oven and usually ranges around 0.5 to 1.2 cubic feet.
Type
As a versatile appliance, compact microwaves often come in various types, each offering unique features, functions, and space requirements.
The type is important to consider when setting it up in your home.
1. Countertop Microwaves
These are also known as tabletop microwaves. These may be easily moved around and don't need any installation, making them perfect for households with little counter space.
Some food-on-wheels or RV owners love countertop microwaves as they require limited counter space and electricity.
One of the must-haves and best paired with the Best Portable Fire Pits and Best Hot Dog Rollers when camping or going to different places.
2. Over the Range Microwaves
Over-the-range compact microwaves have a range hood feature below them.
They are positioned above your range and below your kitchen cabinets (connected on the top and sides), saving you valuable counter space.
In some over-the-range compact microwaves, the air is cycled and filtered using charcoal filters thanks to internal ventilation.
Some small microwaves provide an option for external ventilation, which involves venting the smoke and fumes outside.
3. Under Cabinet Microwaves
Also known as low-profile microwaves. These are slightly shorter and much wider than conventional microwaves, allowing them to fit in the same space as an under-cabinet range hood.
Similar to an over-the-range microwave, this type enables you to save space because it doesn't require a counter space.
However, this is positioned right beneath the kitchen cabinet or counter.
4. Built-in Microwaves
Built-in microwaves are designed to be installed inside kitchen cabinets or on your walls for a more seamless and clean look.
These larger models are ideal for kitchens with a big wall space or cabinets or too much counter space.
These are typically higher-end compact microwaves or pricier models that require more upfront costs, as it needs to be installed by a professional.
5. Convection Microwaves
A multifunctional microwave combines some features of an inverter microwave and a convection oven (some even have an afterburner for greater power).
This allows you to heat and defrost food like inverter microwaves and, at the same time, bake, grill, roast, and steam food.
Convection microwaves are also good for small kitchens, apartments, and RVs but usually occupy bigger spaces than others.
Power
A microwave's power capacity, measured in Watts (W), is typically between 500w and 1000W. These ovens, which often have more than 700 watts, cook food faster and more evenly.
Some brands of kitchen appliances use inverter technology in their microwaves to maintain the heating power and speed constancy required to cook food.
Lower-wattage microwaves are those that are smaller in size. Longer cooking time is associated with lower microwave watts.
Noise Level
Quiet yet highly efficient compact microwaves are great for late-night snackers like me or students who share a dorm room with someone else.
When in operation, most microwave ovens are about as loud as a typical human conversation—around 55-60 dB. (An average human conversation is measured around 55-65 dB.)
Some advanced microwave ovens have this sound-muffling technology with a volume control panel and a mute button that turns off all the interface and feedback sounds from the keypad and kitchen timer.
Controls and Settings
You may prepare food more quickly and easily with the help of preprogrammed settings and cooking presets (which vary by modThirty).
- 30 seconds express cooking - This can adjust your cooking time by 30-second intervals as your meal is cooking to ensure proper heating.
- Defrost modes - This feature enables the microwave to defrost food without actually cooking it. Its settings can be adjusted to speed up the thawing of a frozen meal or other food based on weight.
- Different cooking presets - Some microwaves already include presets for food like pizza, potatoes, popcorn, and frozen vegetables. Whether you want to defrost, soften/melt, reheat, or heat food, it automatically selects cooking power and time.
Understanding the controls and settings is important if you're among the few people who want to know how to safely microwave metal or any other food containers.
Smart Technology
A smart microwave is a more advanced type of microwave that allows you to connect to your WiFi and can be operated remotely using an app on your tablet or smartphone or via a smart home assistant.
Generally speaking, you can adjust cooking times and power settings or even browse online recipes.
Some frequently come with a smart transducer cook option that monitors the moisture levels in your food to regulate the cooking time and temperature to avoid overcooking.
Several versions let consumers scan the packed food barcodes by searching their internal databases for the cook times.
Design
Small microwaves come in a range of styles, materials, and colors.
- Modern small microwaves look more classic and elegant thanks to their square viewing panels, one-touch keypad, and stainless steel exterior designs, typically in black, silver, or white.
- Retro microwaves have vintage elements, such as circular viewing windows, dials, and antennae.
Of course, aesthetics play a big role in kitchen design.
It is quite important when choosing a microwave because some customers prefer to keep the visual appeal of their home by having all of their home or kitchen appliances match.
Interior
When looking for a compact microwave, interior characteristics are as important as internal capacity.
Here are some inside components that you should look for.
- Turntables - Ensure that the turntable of a small microwave is big enough to accommodate the dinner plates for your family.
- Interior racks - The rack provides more space to heat two or more containers simultaneously. These removable racks can be hand-washed or put in the dishwasher with your dinner plates.
- LED display light - Improving visibility in low light enables users to watch their food as it cooks.
The interiors of other compact models can easily collect dirt and call for a more thorough cleaning. (Improperly cleaned microwaves can cause tuberculosis.)
Microwaves with a ceramic enamel interior are a good choice as they are the easiest to clean.
Therefore it's necessary to opt for detachable or interchangeable interiors that are also washable.
Price
Budget is unquestionably important when choosing the best small microwave for a price-conscious buyer. We should know whether the cost is fair given the cooking features.
Some models could be more expensive, but the extended warranties might indicate that the maker is confident in their product.
When purchasing a model, choose a respected manufacturer with a good warranty.
A less-priced microwave may end up damaged or malfunctioning too soon (such as an interior light flickering), demanding an earlier and more costly replacement or repair service.
Additional Features
These additional features usually depend on the specific need of the user. As for me, aside from the mentioned factors, these are other things that make most microwaves worthy of buying.
Child Lock
This control panel prevents children from opening the hot countertop microwave oven door handle (or all small microwaves with this feature).
Eco-mode
Turns off the display like time and power when the microwave is not in use, allowing you to save up to 50% of standby power consumption. It helps save power, money, and the environment.
Warranty
Can help protect your compact microwave from breaking down unexpectedly. Checking the warranty helps me assess if the so-called best microwave is durable enough to last for years.
How Do You Know What Microwave Size to Buy?
It would be best to decide for what purpose and where you will use it. Do you require it at home or when traveling in an RV? Do you need it for baking or simply heating food? Do you require an oven that can be permanently moved about or set in a particular location on your countertop?
Use a measuring tape to determine the largest possible counter space area for your microwave, keeping in mind that there must be at least two feet between it and the range or cooktop.
What Can a Smart Microwave Do?
Generally, you can program cook times, power levels, and control through your devices.
As a result, you can start a cycle of cooking from anywhere with just one tap, get all the notifications about your dinner on your phone, and serve meals to your family even if you’re not in the kitchen, as it is connected to WiFi.
Smart microwaves offer more advanced features in addition to the standard features found on other microwaves, such as:
Touchscreen
Voice/ remote control
Scan to cook
Cooking recipe guide
Other internet-powered features depending on the model
Can Any Microwave Go Over the Range?
Microwaves that are countertop-specific are built to fit on your counter and have features that work when they are positioned correctly.
Similar to how to maximize space savings, an over-the-range microwave oven must specifically be installed on top of the range or countertop.
The same applies to the built-in types intended to be installed inside a cabinet or wall.
OTR microwaves and some countertops can be installed similarly to other types, although it depends on the manufacturer’s instructions.
The manufacturer’s manual again or talk to an installer.
How Do You Make a Countertop Microwave Look Built-In?
Countertop models can be tucked into a cabinet for a built-in look.
This is a great option for anyone looking to add more counter space without requiring a complete kitchen remodel.
But this depends on whether your model can be installed as a built-in microwave.
Be aware that the rear of a countertop microwave contains vents.
These vents won’t be able to emit steam from the microwave if it is built into a cabinet because they will be blocked. Check that the vent system is still functional.
Where Do You Put a Microwave in a Tiny Kitchen?
This is one of the reasons why many buyers prefer a small countertop microwave over the other type, as they can be kept outside the kitchen (in a storage room or a spare cabinet) when not in use or when a larger space is required for other preparations.
They can go in a drawer, over the range, or anywhere else safe, so long as everyone knows where.
Avoid placing them beside where you store food or beside your fridge, as this can cause damage.
Can I Put a Countertop Microwave in a Cabinet?
Doing so while it’s not in use or for storage, YES.
But putting a countertop microwave in a cabinet to act as a built-in type instead IT DEPENDS.
Since countertop microwaves are designed to be transferable, you can put them in a cabinet.
If you want to DIY it and turn it into a built-in type integrated into a cabinet for everyone’s safety, ask for help from a professional installer.
How Can I Clean My Small Microwave?
You only need a tiny bowl filled with water and baking soda. Put a clean cloth into the mixture and wipe down the inside surface.
Another useful cleaning tip is to heat a solution of water and lemon inside the oven for several minutes on high power, let it cool, and then wipe the inside of the microwave.
Different microwave oven cleaning products with specific product usage instructions are available on Amazon.
Do Small Microwaves Have Enough Power to Heat My Food?
Depends on the food you’re heating.
Small microwaves use significantly less energy than an electric or convection microwave oven.
They typically operate in 500w-1000w cooking power which works fine when heating small amounts of food, reheating leftovers, making popcorn, defrosting frozen vegetables or other frozen foods, and other express cooking.
Conclusion
Only a top-notch microwave oven that ensures a secure and satisfying user experience, offers plenty of extra features, and is yet effective can complete a modern kitchen.
Out of the various products we reviewed, the TOSHIBA 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven ML2-EC10SA(BS) is an ideal option for those looking for a multipurpose and user-friendly microwave with a large control panel and plenty of versatility. Its inverter technology ensures even and quick heating, while the eco mode helps conserve electricity.
For those on a budget or with limited space, the BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave EM720CB7 is a good option. This lightweight and affordable microwave performs all regular functions well, making it perfect for small spaces like dorm rooms or offices. Its child safety lock feature adds an extra level of convenience and safety.
Finally, if you're after a microwave with large capacity and high power levels, the COMFEE' Countertop Microwave EM720CPL-PMB is the right choice. Its memory function, soft interior lighting, and digital LED display make it an attractive option for busy households. However, bear in mind that its plastic finish might be prone to fingerprint marks.
I hope this review and some guide helped you make up your mind. No matter which option you choose, rest assured that you're investing in a fantastic and reliable appliance that will serve you well for years to come.
Happy cooking!
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