Ever feel like your kitchen is shrinking? You need a microwave, but finding one that fits without crowding your counters can feel like a puzzle. Many of us live in apartments, dorms, or just have cozy kitchens. That means finding appliances that work *with* our space, not against it, is super important.
The struggle is real when you’re trying to choose a microwave for a small space. You want something that heats your food fast, but it also needs to be compact. It’s frustrating when microwaves are too big, taking up precious counter room or not fitting on a shelf. You want to cook and reheat easily, but a bulky appliance gets in the way.
This post is here to help you conquer that kitchen clutter! We’ll explore some fantastic microwave options designed specifically for smaller areas. You’ll learn what features to look for and discover models that are both powerful and perfectly sized. Get ready to find a microwave that makes your small kitchen feel bigger and your cooking easier!
Our Top 5 Microwave Small Space Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave Small Space Detailed Reviews
1. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 9.1/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a handy kitchen appliance that makes cooking and reheating food quick and simple. Its compact size is great for any kitchen counter, and the black finish looks nice with other appliances. This microwave offers lots of options to help you cook your meals just right.
What We Like:
- It cooks food very quickly with six popular presets like popcorn and pizza.
- You can choose from 10 different power levels, from low to high.
- The digital controls are easy to use, and there’s a +30 seconds button for extra cooking time.
- You can save your favorite cooking settings with the memory function for one-touch cooking.
- It has a child safety lock to keep the door from opening by accident.
- The mute button lets you turn off the beeping sounds.
- Eco Mode helps save power and you can turn off the display.
- Cleaning is easy because the exterior wipes clean, and the glass turntable is dishwasher safe.
- Chefman offers trusted quality with cETL approval and a 1-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be too small for very large dishes or cooking for big families.
- While the presets are helpful, some users might want more specialized cooking options.
This Chefman microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and easy-to-use appliance. It offers a good balance of features and convenience for everyday kitchen tasks.
2. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 8.9/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a handy appliance for any kitchen. It’s compact, with a 0.7 cubic foot capacity, making it ideal for smaller spaces like dorm rooms or apartments. This microwave heats food efficiently with its 700-watt power and offers a variety of helpful features for quick meal preparation.
What We Like:
- It has pre-programmed buttons for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and frozen vegetables.
- The 30-second express cooking button is great for fast reheating.
- A large LED display makes it easy to see the time and settings.
- The push-button door release is convenient.
- A child safety lock adds an extra layer of security.
- The removable glass turntable ensures even cooking.
- It’s compact at 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”, fitting easily on countertops.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the 700-watt power a bit lower than more powerful microwaves.
- The 0.7 cu.ft. capacity might be too small for cooking larger dishes or for families.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave offers good value with its user-friendly features and compact design. It’s a solid choice for simple reheating and cooking tasks.
3. Farberware FMO07ABTBKA Classic 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700-Watt Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.4/10
The Farberware FMO07ABTBKA Classic 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700-Watt Microwave Oven in Black is a great addition to any kitchen or office. This microwave makes cooking fast and easy. It has enough power to get the job done quickly. It is also a good size for smaller spaces.
What We Like:
- It has 700 watts of power for quick cooking.
- It offers ten power levels and multi-stage cooking for custom meals.
- Six one-touch options like popcorn and pizza are super convenient.
- The defrost feature works by weight or time, making meal prep a breeze.
- Its compact 0.7 cu. ft. size fits perfectly in small kitchens or offices.
- The interior and exterior are easy to clean.
- A clear LED display shows the time and has a kitchen timer.
- Interior lighting lets you see your food as it cooks.
- A child safety lock offers extra security.
- Farberware is a trusted brand that helps families make memories.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 700-watt power might be a bit slow for larger meals compared to higher wattage microwaves.
- Some users might prefer more advanced features or a larger capacity for family cooking.
This Farberware microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and easy-to-use appliance. It simplifies everyday cooking tasks with its user-friendly design.
4. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 9.2/10
The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a handy kitchen helper. It’s a compact 0.7 cubic foot microwave that fits easily on your countertop. This black microwave offers smart features to make cooking and reheating quick and simple.
What We Like:
- Silent Operation: You can turn off the beeping sounds, which is great for early mornings or late nights.
- Energy Saving: The ECO Mode cuts down on wasted electricity when the microwave is not in use.
- Easy Cooking: It has one-touch buttons for popular foods like popcorn and potatoes, plus express cooking for 1-6 minutes.
- Defrost Options: You can defrost food by weight or by time, making meal prep easier.
- Safety First: A child safety lock prevents little hands from accidentally starting the microwave.
- Clear Display: The bright digital display and easy-to-read control panel make it simple to use.
- Convenient Turntable: The 10-inch glass turntable rotates food for even cooking.
What Could Be Improved:
- Capacity: At 0.7 cubic feet, it might be a bit small for larger dishes or families.
- Limited Warranty: A one-year limited warranty is standard, but a longer warranty would offer more peace of mind.
This COMFEE microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly appliance. It balances convenience with energy efficiency.
5. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 9.2/10
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) is a compact microwave that fits perfectly in apartments or smaller kitchens. It offers a sleek black stainless steel finish and a 0.9 cubic foot capacity, making it ideal for everyday cooking and reheating needs. This microwave is designed for user-friendliness, featuring helpful auto menus and a quiet operation option.
What We Like:
- It has a Two-Step Child Lock, which is a great safety feature for families with young children.
- The 900-watt microwave output power heats food quickly and efficiently.
- It comes with a 10.6-inch removable glass turntable, which is easy to clean and fits many dishes.
- The 6 preset menus make cooking popular foods like popcorn and potatoes super simple.
- With 11 unique power levels, you can adjust the cooking for different foods.
- The Easy Defrost and One Touch Start features make quick meals even easier.
- You can turn off the annoying beeping sounds with the Mute Mode function.
- The LED lighting inside makes it easy to see your food while it’s cooking.
What Could Be Improved:
- The input power is 1400 watts, which is higher than the output power, but this is common for microwaves.
This TOSHIBA microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and easy-to-use appliance. Its smart features and safety options make it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Microwave for Small Spaces
Finding a microwave that fits your cozy kitchen can be tricky. You want something that heats your food quickly, but you don’t have a lot of room. This guide helps you pick the best small microwave for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a small microwave, keep these important features in mind.
1. Compact Size and Dimensions
The most important thing is size. Measure your counter space or cabinet before you buy. Look for microwaves that are less than 16 inches wide and 12 inches deep. Some even have a smaller footprint. This ensures it fits without taking up too much precious space.
2. Wattage and Cooking Power
Wattage tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most small microwaves have between 700 and 1000 watts. For basic tasks like reheating leftovers or making popcorn, 700 watts is usually enough. If you plan to cook more, aim for 900 watts or higher.
3. Interior Capacity
Even small microwaves have different interior sizes. This is measured in cubic feet. A common size for small microwaves is around 0.7 to 1.0 cubic feet. This is usually enough to fit a standard dinner plate. Check the turntable size too; it needs to be big enough for your dishes.
4. Simple Controls and Presets
You want a microwave that’s easy to use. Look for clear buttons and a simple digital display. Many small microwaves come with helpful presets for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or baked potatoes. These make cooking quicker and easier.
5. Door Style and Opening
Some microwaves have a pull-down door, while others have a side-opening door. Consider which way the door opens and if it will get in your way when you’re using it. Also, check if the door handle is comfortable to grip.
Important Materials
The materials used can affect the microwave’s durability and how it looks.
- Stainless Steel: This material is strong and looks sleek. It’s also easy to clean, which is a big plus in any kitchen.
- Plastic: Many small microwaves use plastic for the exterior. It’s lighter and often more affordable. Look for sturdy plastic that won’t easily crack.
- Glass: The door window is usually made of tempered glass. This is safe and lets you see your food while it’s cooking.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain things can make a small microwave better or worse.
Quality Boosters
- Even Heating: A good microwave heats food evenly. This means no cold spots!
- Quiet Operation: Some microwaves are noisy. A quieter model is much nicer to have.
- Durability: Well-built microwaves last longer. Check reviews for comments on how well they hold up over time.
- Easy Cleaning: A non-stick interior or a smooth exterior makes cleaning a breeze.
Quality Reducers
- Uneven Cooking: If your food is sometimes cold in the middle, the microwave isn’t heating evenly.
- Flimsy Build: A microwave that feels light or wobbly might not be very durable.
- Confusing Controls: If the buttons are hard to understand, it makes using the microwave frustrating.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your small microwave.
For Busy Singles or Couples
A small microwave is perfect for quickly heating up meals or snacks after a long day. You can reheat leftovers, make a quick cup of soup, or pop some popcorn for a movie night.
For Dorm Rooms or Studio Apartments
Space is usually very limited in dorm rooms and studio apartments. A compact microwave is a lifesaver for students or those living in small city dwellings. It lets you prepare simple meals without needing a full kitchen.
As a Secondary Microwave
Some people use a small microwave as a second appliance in a home office or a guest room. It’s handy for keeping snacks and drinks warm without going to the main kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best size for a small space microwave?
A: Generally, microwaves under 16 inches wide and 12 inches deep are considered small. Always measure your intended spot first!
Q: How much wattage do I need for a small microwave?
A: For basic heating, 700 watts is fine. For faster cooking and more options, aim for 900 watts or higher.
Q: Can a small microwave fit a dinner plate?
A: Most small microwaves with a 0.7 to 1.0 cubic feet capacity can fit a standard dinner plate. Check the turntable diameter to be sure.
Q: Are small microwaves less powerful than bigger ones?
A: Not necessarily. They might have smaller interior space, but they can still have good wattage for cooking.
Q: What does “cubic feet” mean for a microwave?
A: Cubic feet is the measure of the inside space of the microwave. A larger number means more room for food.
Q: Is stainless steel better than plastic for a microwave?
A: Stainless steel is more durable and looks nicer, but plastic is lighter and usually cheaper. Both can be good choices.
Q: How do I know if a microwave heats food evenly?
A: You can check reviews from other users. If many people say their food heats up evenly, that’s a good sign.
Q: What are microwave presets?
A: Presets are buttons for specific foods, like popcorn or pizza. Pressing one automatically sets the cooking time and power level.
Q: Should I worry about the door opening direction?
A: Yes, especially in very tight spaces. Make sure the door opens in a way that doesn’t block your path.
Q: How do I clean a small microwave?
A: Most can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. Some have easy-clean interiors.
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!