Tired of bulky appliances taking up all your precious kitchen space? Many of us dream of a kitchen that feels open and organized, but the reality is, we still need those handy gadgets. That’s where the humble countertop microwave comes in, but finding the *right* small one can feel like a treasure hunt with a confusing map. You want something that heats your popcorn fast and fits perfectly, without becoming an eyesore or a space hog.
Choosing a small microwave countertop unit presents its own set of challenges. You worry about getting enough power, ensuring it has the features you actually need, and if it will even look good on your counter. Will it be too small to fit your favorite mug? Too weak to heat leftovers efficiently? These are the questions that can leave you scrolling through endless product pages.
By reading on, you’ll discover a clear guide to navigating the world of small countertop microwaves. We’ll break down what really matters, helping you avoid common mistakes and pinpoint the perfect microwave for your needs and your kitchen. Get ready to find a compact cooking companion that makes your life a little easier and your kitchen a lot tidier.
Our Top 5 Small Microwave Countertop Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Small Microwave Countertop Detailed Reviews
1. Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts
Rating: 9.0/10
The Farberware Countertop Microwave, with its 700 watts of power and 0.7 cubic feet of space, is a fantastic addition to any small kitchen. Its sleek stainless steel design looks great on any counter, and it’s packed with features that make cooking a breeze. Whether you’re in a dorm room, a small apartment, or just need a reliable microwave for your office, this appliance is designed to fit your life.
What We Like:
- It’s super convenient for making quick meals. The 700 watts of power get the job done fast.
- You get lots of cooking options with ten power levels and multi-stage cooking.
- It has six handy one-touch settings, like for popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- Defrosting by weight or time is a snap.
- The 0.7 cubic feet size is perfect for small spaces but still cooks like a bigger microwave.
- The inside and outside are easy to clean.
- It has a bright LED display, a kitchen timer, and a clock to help you stay organized.
- The interior light lets you see your food cooking.
- A child safety lock provides extra peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for small spaces, some users might want a larger capacity for bigger meals.
- The 700-watt power is good for basic tasks, but it might take a little longer for certain cooking jobs compared to higher-wattage models.
This Farberware microwave offers a lot of bang for your buck, making it a smart choice for anyone needing a compact and capable cooking solution.
2. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 8.7/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven. This compact 0.7 cu. ft. microwave packs a punch with 700 watts of power. It’s designed for easy everyday use, making meal prep and reheating a breeze. Its sleek black finish looks great on any countertop.
What We Like:
- It cooks food extra-quick with six popular presets like popcorn and pizza.
- You can choose from 10 different power levels for precise cooking.
- The digital controls are simple to use, and the +30 seconds button adds convenience.
- A memory function lets you save your favorite cooking settings for one-touch access.
- The child safety lock keeps the door secure.
- The mute option allows you to turn off annoying beeps.
- Eco Mode helps save power and dims the display.
- Cleaning is easy; the exterior wipes clean, and the turntable is dishwasher safe.
- It’s cETL approved with advanced safety technology and comes with a 1-year assurance from Chefman.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be too small for larger families or cooking big meals.
- While it has many features, some users might prefer more advanced cooking options.
This Chefman microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly appliance. It brings convenience and smart features to your kitchen.
3. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 9.5/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a compact powerhouse that makes heating up your meals a breeze. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen, and the 0.7 cubic foot capacity is just right for smaller spaces or single servings.
What We Like:
- It cooks food evenly thanks to the removable 10-inch glass turntable.
- The pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and more take the guesswork out of cooking.
- You can quickly heat things up with the 30-second express cooking option.
- The large LED display and easy-to-read control panel make it simple to use.
- A child safety lock gives you peace of mind if you have little ones around.
- The push-button door release is convenient for quick access.
What Could Be Improved:
- While 700 watts is good for basic heating, it might take a bit longer for some dishes compared to higher wattage microwaves.
- The 0.7 cubic foot interior might feel a little small if you often heat up larger dishes or multiple items at once.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for anyone seeking a reliable and easy-to-use kitchen appliance. It offers a good balance of features and convenience for everyday reheating and cooking tasks.
4. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 9.1/10
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) microwave is a great addition to any small kitchen, apartment, or dorm room. Its stainless steel design looks sleek and modern. This compact microwave packs a punch with 900 watts of power, making it fast and efficient. It’s easy to use with helpful features like auto menus and a mute function, so you won’t disturb anyone. Plus, the child lock keeps little ones safe. The bright LED lighting inside makes it easy to see your food as it cooks.
What We Like:
- It has 6 helpful auto menus for foods like popcorn and pizza.
- You can choose from 11 different power levels for perfect cooking.
- The mute function lets you turn off the annoying beeping sound.
- A two-step child lock makes it safe for homes with kids.
- The 10.6-inch turntable is removable and dishwasher safe.
- Its compact size fits easily on counters in small spaces.
- It has a one-touch start feature for quick cooking.
What Could Be Improved:
- The external dimensions might still be a bit large for the absolute smallest dorm counter spaces.
- While it has many features, some users might prefer more advanced cooking options.
This TOSHIBA microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly appliance. Its blend of features and a compact design makes it a winner.
5. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 9.4/10
The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a handy kitchen helper. It’s compact, fitting nicely on your counter. This microwave makes cooking and reheating quick and simple. It also has a cool sound-off feature so you don’t disturb anyone.
What We Like:
- The mute function lets you turn off the beeping sounds, which is great for quiet kitchens.
- It has easy one-touch buttons for popular foods like popcorn and potatoes.
- The ECO Mode saves energy by reducing standby power.
- Express cooking lets you heat food for 1 to 6 minutes with just one button push.
- It has two defrost settings, making it easy to thaw frozen foods.
- The bright digital display and clear control panel are easy to read.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands out.
- It comes with a one-year limited warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic feet capacity might be small for larger families or bigger dishes.
- While it has express cooking, some users might prefer more advanced cooking presets.
This COMFEE microwave is a solid choice for simple, everyday cooking needs. Its quiet operation and energy-saving features make it a practical addition to any kitchen.
Your Guide to Picking the Perfect Small Microwave Countertop
Finding the right small microwave for your countertop can make a big difference in your kitchen. Whether you need it for quick snacks, reheating leftovers, or even cooking simple meals, a good microwave is a kitchen workhorse. This guide will help you choose the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a small countertop microwave, several features stand out.
Capacity and Size
- Interior Capacity: Microwaves are measured in cubic feet. For small spaces, look for models between 0.7 to 1.0 cubic feet. This is usually enough for a standard dinner plate.
- Exterior Dimensions: Measure your counter space before you buy. Make sure the microwave will fit comfortably with enough room for ventilation. A good rule is to have at least 3 inches of clearance on the sides and back.
Power Levels and Cooking Functions
- Wattage: Higher wattage (around 700-1000 watts) means faster cooking. Most small microwaves are in this range.
- Pre-set Cooking Options: Many microwaves come with buttons for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, or pizza. These take the guesswork out of cooking.
- Defrost Settings: These settings help you thaw frozen foods quickly and evenly. Look for options that let you defrost by weight or by time.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
- Turntable: A glass turntable rotates your food for even heating. Make sure it’s removable for easy cleaning.
- Control Panel: A simple, intuitive control panel makes operating the microwave easy. Digital displays are often clearer than analog dials.
- Interior Coating: Non-stick interior coatings, like ceramic or enamel, make wiping up spills a breeze.
Important Materials
The materials used in a microwave affect its durability and how it heats food.
- Exterior Casing: Most microwaves have a stainless steel or painted metal exterior. Stainless steel is durable and looks sleek, but it can show fingerprints. Painted metal is often more affordable.
- Interior Cavity: The inside of the microwave is usually coated with enamel, ceramic, or stainless steel. Ceramic and enamel are easy to clean. Stainless steel is very durable but can be harder to wipe clean.
- Turntable: The turntable is almost always made of glass. It should be sturdy and easy to remove.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some aspects of a microwave can make it a better or worse choice.
What Makes a Microwave Better
- Even Heating: A good microwave heats food evenly without hot or cold spots. This often comes from better internal design and a strong turntable.
- Quiet Operation: Some microwaves are much quieter than others. If noise is a concern, check reviews for comments on sound levels.
- Durability: Well-built microwaves made with quality materials will last longer.
What Can Make a Microwave Less Ideal
- Uneven Cooking: This is a common problem if the microwave isn’t designed well.
- Flimsy Build: A microwave that feels light or has parts that feel cheap might not be very durable.
- Difficult Controls: If the buttons are hard to press or the settings are confusing, it can be frustrating to use.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use your microwave will shape your choice.
Who Needs a Small Countertop Microwave?
- Dorm Rooms: Perfect for students who need to heat meals or make popcorn.
- Small Apartments: Ideal for kitchens with limited counter space.
- Office Breakrooms: Great for reheating lunches or making quick cups of tea.
- Guest Rooms or Studios: Provides convenience for visitors or those in smaller living situations.
Everyday Uses
- Reheating Leftovers: The most common use, making yesterday’s dinner taste fresh again.
- Cooking Frozen Meals: Many frozen dinners are designed for microwave cooking.
- Making Popcorn: A quick and easy snack.
- Melting Butter or Chocolate: Useful for baking and cooking.
- Heating Beverages: Quickly warming up milk or water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best size for a small microwave?
A: For small countertop microwaves, look for an interior capacity between 0.7 and 1.0 cubic feet. This size is usually enough for a standard dinner plate.
Q: How much counter space do I need for a microwave?
A: You should have at least 3 inches of clearance on the sides and back of the microwave for proper ventilation. Measure your counter space before buying.
Q: Is a higher wattage microwave always better?
A: Higher wattage, typically 700-1000 watts, means faster cooking. While it’s good for efficiency, most small microwaves fall within this range and perform well.
Q: What does “pre-set cooking options” mean?
A: These are buttons that automatically set the cooking time and power level for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, or pizza. They make cooking easier.
Q: Why is a turntable important in a microwave?
A: A turntable rotates your food as it cooks, which helps heat it evenly. This prevents hot spots and ensures your food is cooked thoroughly.
Q: What are the easiest interior surfaces to clean?
A: Ceramic or enamel interior coatings are the easiest to clean. They have non-stick surfaces that make wiping up spills simple.
Q: Can I put a metal rack inside a microwave?
A: No, you should never put metal inside a microwave unless the manufacturer specifically states it is safe. Metal can cause sparks and damage the microwave.
Q: How do I know if a microwave heats food evenly?
A: Check product reviews. Users often comment on whether a microwave heats food evenly or if there are noticeable hot and cold spots.
Q: What are the benefits of a stainless steel exterior?
A: Stainless steel exteriors are durable and give a modern look. However, they can show fingerprints more easily than painted surfaces.
Q: How long should a small microwave typically last?
A: With proper care and use, a good quality small microwave can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years.
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.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!