Tired of a bulky microwave hogging your precious counter space? Do you dream of a kitchen that feels more open and airy? You’re not alone! Many people face the challenge of finding a microwave that fits their needs without overwhelming their kitchen.
Choosing the perfect small microwave can feel like a puzzle. You want something that heats your food quickly and evenly, but you also need it to be compact enough for your apartment, dorm room, or even a small office breakroom. The struggle is real when you’re faced with so many choices, each promising the best features in the smallest package.
This guide is here to help! We’ll explore what makes a small microwave a great choice and highlight the key things to look for. By the end, you’ll feel confident in picking a microwave that’s just right for you, saving you time and kitchen space. Let’s dive in and find your perfect compact cooking companion!
Our Top 5 Microwave Small Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave Small Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 8.8/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a sleek and compact kitchen helper. Its stainless steel finish looks great on any countertop. This microwave is designed for convenience and ease of use, making it a solid choice for small kitchens or anyone who needs a reliable appliance for quick meals and snacks. It’s perfect for busy students, single people, or small families.
What We Like:
- It heats food quickly and evenly thanks to its 700 watts of power and 10 different power settings.
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and more take the guesswork out of cooking.
- The 30-second express cooking feature is super handy for when you’re in a rush.
- A child safety lock gives parents peace of mind.
- The large LED display and easy-to-read control panel make it simple to operate.
- A removable glass turntable ensures even cooking and is easy to clean.
- The push-button door release is simple and effective.
What Could Be Improved:
- At 0.7 cubic feet, it’s a bit small, so it might not fit larger dishes or multiple items at once.
- While it has many features, some users might find the 700-watt power a little less robust than higher-wattage microwaves.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven offers good value with its helpful features and user-friendly design. It’s a practical addition to any kitchen for everyday reheating and cooking needs.
2. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 9.4/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact powerhouse, perfect for any kitchen. Its 0.7 cubic foot capacity and 700 watts of power handle everyday cooking tasks with ease. This sleek black microwave offers a user-friendly experience with 10 power levels and 6 convenient cooking presets for popular items like popcorn, pizza, and vegetables. You can even set cooking times with just a press of a button. Plus, features like the mute button and child safety lock add extra convenience and peace of mind.
What We Like:
- Extra-quick cooking with six popular presets.
- 10 power levels allow for precise cooking.
- One-touch express cook and +30 seconds button for convenience.
- Memory function lets you save your favorite settings.
- Child safety lock and mute button for added security and quiet operation.
- Eco Mode helps save power and the display can be turned off.
- Durable exterior wipes clean easily, and the glass turntable is dishwasher safe.
- cETL approved with advanced safety technology and a 1-year assurance.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be small for larger meals or families.
- While it has presets, advanced cooking features are limited.
This Chefman microwave offers a great balance of functionality and convenience for everyday use. It’s a reliable and user-friendly addition to any kitchen countertop.
3. Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts
Rating: 8.8/10
Need a quick and easy way to heat up your snacks or meals? The Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts, 0.7 Cu. Ft. is a fantastic choice for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or anywhere space is limited. This little powerhouse offers enough cooking power to get the job done efficiently. Its stainless steel finish looks sleek and is simple to wipe clean, making it a practical addition to any home or office.
What We Like:
- It has 700 watts of power for quick cooking.
- You can choose from ten power levels and multi-stage cooking.
- Six one-touch options like popcorn and potato make cooking simple.
- Defrosting by weight or time saves you time.
- The 0.7 cu. ft. size is perfect for small spaces.
- The LED display shows the time and has a kitchen timer.
- Interior lighting lets you see your food while it cooks.
- A child safety lock adds peace of mind.
- The stainless steel exterior is easy to clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- With 700 watts, it might not be as fast as higher-wattage microwaves for larger items.
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity is compact, so it might not fit larger dishes or containers.
This Farberware microwave is a solid option for anyone needing a compact and user-friendly appliance. It offers convenient features that make everyday cooking a breeze.
4. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 9.5/10
The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a sleek and handy appliance for any kitchen. Its compact 0.7 cubic foot size makes it ideal for countertops, and the black finish looks modern. This microwave offers user-friendly features that make cooking and reheating quick and simple.
What We Like:
- The mute function is a game-changer! You can cook without annoying beeping sounds.
- ECO Mode saves energy by reducing standby power.
- Easy one-touch buttons for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and more make cooking simple.
- Express cooking lets you heat food for 1 to 6 minutes with just one touch.
- It has two defrost settings, by weight or time, for convenience.
- The bright digital display and easy-to-read control panel are user-friendly.
- A child safety lock provides extra peace of mind.
- The interior light and 10-inch glass turntable are practical features.
- It comes with a one-year limited warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic foot capacity might be small for larger families or bigger meals.
- While it has express cooking, some might prefer more customizable power levels.
Overall, the COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB is a solid choice for anyone seeking a quiet, efficient, and easy-to-use microwave. Its smart features and energy-saving mode make it a practical addition to most kitchens.
5. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 9.3/10
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven is a fantastic addition to any small kitchen, apartment, or dorm room. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks great, and it’s packed with features that make cooking and reheating a breeze. With 900 watts of power, it heats food quickly and evenly. Plus, it has a handy mute function so you won’t be bothered by loud beeps!
What We Like:
- The 6 auto menus are super helpful for cooking common foods like popcorn and potatoes.
- The mute function is a game-changer for quiet kitchens or late-night snacking.
- The child lock feature provides extra safety, giving parents peace of mind.
- It has 11 different power levels, so you can cook just about anything.
- The one-touch start feature makes it easy to quickly heat food for up to 6 minutes.
- The LED lighting inside makes it easy to see your food while it’s cooking.
- The 10.6-inch removable turntable fits most standard plates and is easy to clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- The external dimensions are a bit larger than some other compact microwaves, so measure your space carefully.
- To activate the child lock, you need to follow specific steps, which might be a little confusing at first.
Overall, this TOSHIBA microwave is a smart and convenient choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly appliance.
Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Small Microwave
Finding the right small microwave can make a big difference in your kitchen. Whether you live in a small apartment, have a tiny dorm room, or just need a second microwave for a specific task, a compact model can be a lifesaver. This guide will help you pick the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a small microwave, keep these important features in mind.
Capacity
The most important thing is the size, or capacity, of the microwave. This is usually measured in cubic feet.
- For one person, a capacity between 0.5 and 0.9 cubic feet is usually enough.
- If you need to heat up bigger plates or cook small meals, look for something around 1.0 cubic feet.
Wattage
Wattage tells you how powerful the microwave is. More watts mean faster cooking.
- Most small microwaves have between 700 and 1000 watts.
- 700-800 watts are good for reheating and basic cooking.
- 900-1000 watts will cook your food quicker and more evenly.
Turntable
A turntable is a spinning glass plate inside the microwave. It helps your food cook evenly.
- Most small microwaves come with a turntable.
- Check if the turntable is removable for easy cleaning.
Pre-set Cooking Options
Some microwaves have special buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or potatoes. These can make cooking easier.
Important Materials
The materials used in a microwave affect its durability and how it heats food.
Exterior and Interior Casing
Most small microwaves have a metal casing, usually stainless steel or painted steel.
- Stainless steel is durable and looks nice.
- Painted steel is more affordable but can scratch or chip over time.
The inside is usually coated with a special enamel or ceramic material.
- Ceramic enamel is scratch-resistant and easy to clean.
- Standard enamel can be less durable.
Glass Door
The door has a glass window so you can see your food. The glass is usually tempered for safety.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things will make your small microwave work better and last longer, while others might cause problems.
What Makes it Better
- **Even Heating:** A good microwave heats food evenly without hot or cold spots. This usually comes from good wattage and a working turntable.
- **Easy Controls:** Simple buttons and a clear display make it easy to use.
- **Quiet Operation:** Some microwaves are noisy. A quieter model is more pleasant to use.
- **Safety Features:** Child lock features are great for families.
What Makes it Worse
- **Uneven Cooking:** If food is cooked unevenly, the microwave might not be powerful enough or the turntable might not be working right.
- **Poor Build Quality:** Flimsy materials or loose parts can mean the microwave won’t last long.
- **Difficult Cleaning:** If the inside is hard to wipe down, it can become messy quickly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use your small microwave.
For Students and Dorms
Small microwaves are perfect for dorm rooms. They can heat up leftovers, make instant noodles, or pop popcorn for late-night study sessions. Their compact size fits easily on a desk or counter.
For Small Kitchens
If you have limited counter space, a small microwave is ideal. It won’t take up much room but can still handle everyday reheating and cooking tasks.
For Specific Tasks
Some people use a small microwave as a secondary appliance. For example, you might have a larger one for cooking and a small one on your desk for heating coffee or tea.
Frequently Asked Questions about Small Microwaves
Q: What is the best capacity for a single person?
A: For one person, a capacity between 0.5 and 0.9 cubic feet is usually enough.
Q: Does wattage really matter for a small microwave?
A: Yes, higher wattage means your food will cook faster and more evenly.
Q: Is a turntable always necessary?
A: A turntable helps food cook evenly, so it’s a very helpful feature to have.
Q: Are small microwaves less powerful than big ones?
A: Not always. Some small microwaves have high wattage, just like larger ones. It depends on the specific model.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my microwave?
A: You can usually clean the inside with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tough spots, microwave a bowl of water with lemon slices for a few minutes, then wipe it down.
Q: Can I cook full meals in a small microwave?
A: You can cook some simple meals, but it might be difficult to fit larger dishes. They are best for reheating and cooking smaller portions.
Q: What does “pre-set cooking options” mean?
A: These are buttons that automatically set the cooking time and power level for specific foods like popcorn or potatoes.
Q: Is stainless steel better than painted steel for the outside?
A: Stainless steel is more durable and resistant to scratches, but painted steel is a more budget-friendly option.
Q: How can I tell if a microwave heats food evenly?
A: You can test it by microwaving something like a plate of cookies and checking if they are all heated equally. Good wattage and a working turntable help with even heating.
Q: Are there any safety concerns with small microwaves?
A: Like all microwaves, make sure to follow the instructions for use and don’t operate it if the door is damaged. Some models have a child lock feature for extra safety.
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!