But not everyone has the luxury of excess counter space. Compact microwaves offer an easy solution, and they're usually more affordable than bigger microwaves too.
They provide the same functionality as their full-sized counterparts while taking up minimal counter space.
Top Compact Microwave for Smaller Kitchens
When shopping for the best small microwave, wattage (or power) is a primary factor—it determines how quickly and evenly your food is cooked or reheated.
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A rotating turntable is also important as it helps distribute heat evenly.
You should also take note of the microwave's interior capacity to make sure it meets your daily needs and the variety of settings available for different cooking tasks.
We've researched and tested a variety of compact microwaves to find the best for your needs. Our list highlights models that maximize efficiency without sacrificing functionality.
They are perfect for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or office settings where space is at a premium. We prioritize user-friendly features, reliability, and value in our selection to help you find an ideal match.
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1. Toshiba EM925A5A-BS Countertop Microwave Oven (0.9 Cubic Feet)
Anyone in the market for a compact microwave will appreciate this unit's balance of size and functionality.
What We Liked The Most: Swift setup got us going fast.
What Could've Been Better: Slightly larger than competitors.
The Toshiba EM925A5A-BS is a fixture in our kitchen. Its user-friendly interface had us zapping popcorn and reheating coffee without fuss. Operating it feels intuitive; one-touch buttons save time. It fits neatly on the counter and looks good with its sleek black stainless-steel finish.
We noticed how quiet it runs, a bonus during our late-night snack sessions. It heats evenly, which is essential for a household with diverse tastes and culinary demands. The power savings from the ECO mode are noticeable on our electric bill—a thoughtful feature for those conscious about energy use.
The only issue we had with it was using the kitchen timer sometimes... it would occasionally pause the timer but it was easily fixable & ended up being a mild inconvenience.
We awarded the Toshiba EM925A5A-BS as our best small microwave overall due to its stellar balance of features and performance.
Product Specification Highlights:
| Feature | Description |
| Capacity | 0.9 cubic feet |
| Power Output | 900 watts |
| Product Dimensions | 19.1 in x 16.1 in x 11.5 in |
| Net Gross Weight | 27.3 lbs. / 29.7 lbs. |
| Rated Voltage | 120V~ 60Hz |
| Rated Input Power | 1350W (Microwave) |
| Turntable Diameter | 10.6 inches |
| Features | Digital control panel with LED light, black stainless steel exterior, one-touch start for six pre-programmed functions, power saving mode, child safety lock Advertisement |
2. GE JES1072SHSS Countertop Microwave Oven (0.7 Cubic Feet)
For those seeking a mix of style and efficiency in a compact form, this GE model could be the ideal kitchen companion.
What We Liked The Most: Compact design, perfect for small spaces.
What Could've Been Better: Tiny capacity for bigger plates & dishes, tough to fit family-sized meals.
When you're squeezed for counter space but require the convenience a microwave brings, this GE Countertop Microwave has us covered. With its sleek stainless steel finish, it not only heats up our midnight snacks and quick lunches but also adds an air of elegance to our kitchen. Its small footprint is deceptive – inside, there's ample room to fit a full-sized dinner plate, making it a powerhouse for its size.
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Using this microwave feels a pleasure, with its simple one-touch operations imitating the convenience of larger models. Its defrost functionality, a particular standout, lets us seamlessly transition from freezer to table without the fuss. The sizeable electronic keypad is responsive, confirming our selections without having to jab at the buttons.
However, we've noticed it hums a bit louder than we'd like during operation. And while the 700 watts of power is ample for most tasks, if you're in a rush, you might find it takes a tad longer to heat your food thoroughly. Moreover, its lightness, although great for portability, means it can skate across the countertop if not secured, something to watch out for if your kitchen sees a lot of action.
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The essence of any good appliance is that it performs when you need it to. Our experiences with this microwave have shown it to be a reliable piece of kitchen tech, compact but effective for everyday use. Out of everything we tested, the GE JES1072SHSS Countertop Microwave Oven is the smallest microwave oven of the group.
Product Specification Highlights:
| Feature | Description |
| Capacity | 0.7 cu. ft., ideal for countertops |
| Power | 700 Watts with 10 power levels |
| Display | Digital control, LED display with clock and timer |
| Cooking Time | Quick start 1-6 minute express cooking, +30-Seconds control |
| One-Touch Cooking Functions | Includes settings for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, and beverage Advertisement |
| Memory Function | Stores and recalls cooking settings |
| Multi-Stage Cooking | Adjusts power level during cooking |
| Defrost | Options by weight and time |
| Turntable | 10 inches, removable |
| Keypad Lock | Prevents unsupervised use |
| Dimensions | H 10.1, W 17.75, D 12.91 inches |
3. Farberware FMO07ABTBKA Countertop Microwave Oven (0.7 Cubic Feet)
What We Liked The Most: Heats meals efficiently and stays user-friendly. Affordable too.
What Could've Been Better: Inconsistent heating at times for ready-to-eat grub.
Upon first use, the Farberware Countertop Microwave impresses with its quick-start capabilities. We heated up a cold beverage and found the one-touch setting perfectly intuitive. Space is a premium in our office, and this unit's small footprint was a highly welcomed feature.
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When it came to reheating leftovers, the microwave accommodated a standard dinner plate without issue.
However, during our testing phase, we noticed that it struggled slightly with larger items, like big bags of popcorn. This wasn't a deal-breaker, as compactness is a trade-off for accommodating larger dishes. We've found creative ways to make space for it in tight corners, which has been a smart space-saving move.
Having multiple power levels at our fingertips, we enjoyed customizing the heat intensity for various foods. The preset functions added convenience, cooking a potato to a satisfying softness. The memory setting proved to be a nifty feature we rarely see at this price point, tailoring the experience to our frequent uses.
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We are pleased to award this Farberware model our distinction for the best budget mini microwave. It marries efficiency with economy for the budget-conscious user. Its slick design and simple interface make it a breeze to operate.
Product Specification Highlights:
| Feature | Description |
| Power | 700 Watts, suitable for basic microwave cooking |
| Capacity | Compact 0.7 cu. ft. interior, ideal for small portions |
| Turntable | 10-inch diameter, ensures even heating |
| Cooking Programs | Includes beverage, popcorn, pizza, potato, express cook, frozen vegetables, dinner, staged cooking, and 6 one-touch cooking menus |
| Design | Sleek black casing, complements kitchen décor |
| Display | LED display for clear setting visibility |
| Safety Advertisement | Control lockout feature for added security |
| Dimensions | H 10 1/10 inches, W 17 3/10 inches, D 12 4/5 inches |
| Additional Features | Timer, child lock, removable turntable |
| Electrical Specs | 7.5 amperes, 120 volts |
| Warranty | 1 Year for parts and labor |
How to Pick a Compact Countertop Microwaves
When choosing the best small microwave, it's important to consider the size. We want one that's compact but still provides enough interior space to meet our needs. Ideally, it should fit where we plan to place it, whether that's on a kitchen counter or in a dorm room.
Dimensions & Capacity
- Height: Ideally under 15 inches.
- Width: Should not exceed 24 inches.
- Depth: Preferably less than 20 inches.
- Capacity: Usually between 0.5 - 1.2 cubic feet.
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Efficiency & Power Levels
Microwave power is measured in watts. Our aim is to find a balance between quick heating and energy efficiency. Inverter microwaves, for instance, offer precise control over heating power, making them more energy efficient.
- Low: Less than 700 watts; adequate for simple tasks like defrosting meat or baking potatoes.
- Medium: 700 - 900 watts; offers more versatility, suitable for a range of cooking tasks.
- High: Above 900 watts; for quick and even heating, making a huge difference in the cooking process.
Preferred Features
While extra features can often be appealing, they shouldn't complicate the appliance. We focus on those that add genuine value to our microwave use, such as preset programs and timing functions.
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Here’s how extra features make the difference:
| Feature | How this Feature Helps |
| Preset Programs | For single-touch cooking of common items, often including the same features as larger microwave ovens |
| Turntable | Rotates food for even cooking,great for small microwaves since interior space is limited |
| Timer | Helps track cooking times accurately |
| Defrost | Efficient thawing of food, with defrost modes specifically designed for tasks like defrosting meat |
Convection microwaves combine a microwave oven with a convection oven to give similar versatility to a toaster oven.
Safety & Maintenance
Safety features are something we take seriously. Child lock functions are a significant plus for families. As for maintenance, we look for microwaves with removable turntables and interiors that are easy to clean, such as those with a brushed stainless finish.
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Safety & Cleaning
- Child Lock: To prevent unsupervised use.
- Interior: Non-stick or stainless steel for easy wiping.
- Turntable: Should be removable for cleaning.
A good small microwave balances size, power, essential features, and safety considerations. We choose one that fits effortlessly into our space, meets our cooking needs, and is simple to maintain.
Whether it's a countertop microwave or a more specialized model like convection or inverter microwaves, the right choice can make a significant difference in our daily kitchen activities.
Budgeting: Decide Between an Expensive or Cheap Microwave
When you're looking for a small microwave for your kitchen or dorm room, it's smart to think about how much money you want to spend.
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For more help finding a great microwave that won't break the bank, check out our article on the best cheap microwave in 2024. Here are some quick tips to help you buy a microwave without spending too much:
| What to Consider | Quick Tip |
| Features vs. Price | Identify which features are must-haves. Don't spend extra on unnecessary features. |
| Look for Sales | Keep an eye out for discounts and sales in stores or online to get the best deal. |
| Electricity Savings | Opt for microwaves that are energy-efficient to reduce long-term electricity costs. |
| Warranty Matters | Invest in a microwave with a good warranty; it can save you money on repairs later. Advertisement |
Frequently Asked Questions
How big are compact microwaves?
Compact microwaves typically range in external dimensions from 15 to 19 inches wide, 10 to 12 inches tall, and 12 to 16 inches deep. Internally, they offer about 0.7 to 0.9 cubic feet of space. Most microwaves in this category are designed for efficiency and space-saving.
How many inches is the smallest microwave?
The smallest microwaves on the market start around 10 inches tall, 18 inches wide, and 12 inches deep. Internal capacity is often around 0.7 cubic feet. Retro microwaves often fall into this smaller size category.
How do mini countertop microwaves compare to regular ones in power and features?
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Mini countertop microwaves typically range from 600 to 900 watts, whereas regular ones may offer 1000 watts or more.
Despite their smaller size and lower power, many mini models still pack a variety of features like defrost settings, preset cooking times, and turntables.
They are designed to heat food efficiently, although the heating speed might be slightly slower compared to larger models.
What size microwave is big enough for a small family?
A microwave with a capacity of 0.9 to 1.2 cubic feet should suffice for a small family. This size can comfortably heat meals and fit standard-sized plates.
It's important to consider the cooking power and energy efficiency when selecting a microwave oven for family use.
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What is the smallest size microwave that can still fit dinner plates?
A microwave with a turntable diameter of around 10 inches can generally accommodate a standard dinner plate.
This correlates with a microwave of at least 0.7 cubic feet. Countertop microwaves of this size are often sought after for their balance of compactness and functionality.
What should I consider when buying a tiny microwave for a small kitchen?
Consider the internal capacity, power wattage, ease of use, and available features. We suggest prioritizing microwaves that offer a balance of convenience and functionality in a compact design.
For those interested in cooking a variety of foods, including frozen food, look for models with multiple power levels and specific cooking settings.
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How big is a .7 cubic foot microwave?
A .7 cubic foot microwave typically measures around 17 inches wide, 10 inches high, and 13 inches deep.
The internal space is suitable for most single servings and standard plates. When conducting microwave testing, this size is often used to evaluate the efficiency and uniformity of heating in compact models.
Disclaimer: The above is a sponsored post, the views expressed are those of the sponsor/author and do not represent the stand and views of Outlook Editorial.
