Imagine a tiny kitchen helper that can warm up your snacks in a flash, melt butter for baking, or even cook a single serving of pasta without heating up the whole house. That’s the magic of a mini microwave oven! But with so many different brands and sizes out there, picking the perfect one can feel like a puzzle.
You might be wondering: Which one is the smallest? Which one is the cheapest? Will it actually cook my food properly? These are all common questions when you’re trying to find that ideal compact appliance. It’s easy to get lost in all the features and specifications, and you want to make sure you’re not buying something that’s too small to be useful or too big for your tiny space.
This guide is here to help! We’ll break down what makes a mini microwave oven great and what to look for. By the end, you’ll feel confident about choosing a mini microwave that fits your needs and your kitchen perfectly. Let’s dive in and discover your new favorite kitchen gadget!
Our Top 5 Mini Microwave Oven Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Mini Microwave Oven Detailed Reviews
1. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 8.6/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. is a compact powerhouse designed for your kitchen. This 700-watt microwave offers a variety of features to make cooking and reheating simple and efficient.
What We Like:
- It cooks food extra-quick with six popular presets like popcorn, pizza, and veggies.
- You can choose from 10 power levels, from low for melting butter to high for fast cooking.
- Digital controls make it easy to set the time and power level, and the +30 seconds button adds extra time quickly.
- The memory function lets you program your favorite settings for one-touch cooking.
- A child safety lock keeps the door secure, and you can lock the control panel for added safety.
- The mute option turns off beeps, so you can cook quietly.
- Its modern black design looks great in any kitchen, and Eco Mode saves power.
- Cleaning is simple; the exterior wipes clean easily, and the glass turntable is dishwasher safe.
- Chefman offers trusted quality with cETL approval and a 1-year assurance.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic feet capacity might be a bit small for larger dishes or families.
- While it has many presets, some users might prefer even more specific cooking options.
This Chefman microwave is a practical and user-friendly choice for quick meals. It’s a great addition for anyone needing a reliable countertop cooking solution.
2. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 9.1/10
The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven brings convenience and smart features to your kitchen. This compact, 0.7 cubic foot microwave in sleek black is designed for everyday use, making heating up leftovers, popping popcorn, or cooking a quick meal a breeze. Its user-friendly design includes easy one-touch buttons and a bright digital display for simple operation.
What We Like:
- The mute function is a game-changer, letting you cook without annoying beeps.
- ECO Mode saves energy by reducing standby power, which is great for your electricity bill.
- One-touch express cooking buttons, from 1 to 6 minutes, make reheating super fast.
- The auto-cook functions for popcorn, potato, pizza, and more take the guesswork out of cooking.
- It has a handy kitchen timer and a child safety lock for peace of mind.
- The 10-inch glass turntable fits most standard dishes.
- The bright digital display and interior light make it easy to see and use.
- It comes with a one-year limited warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s compact, 0.7 cubic feet might be too small for larger families or bigger dishes.
- The defrost settings are by weight or time, which can sometimes be tricky to get just right.
This COMFEE microwave offers a good balance of features for its price point. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly countertop microwave.
3. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 8.7/10
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) is a compact microwave oven designed for modern living. Its sleek black stainless steel finish looks great in any apartment kitchen. This microwave offers a good amount of space for its size, with a 0.9 cubic foot capacity and a 10.6-inch turntable. It’s packed with features that make cooking and reheating simple and convenient.
What We Like:
- It has 6 helpful auto menus for common foods like popcorn and potatoes.
- The mute function lets you turn off the beeping sounds, which is nice for early mornings or late nights.
- A two-step child lock keeps little hands safe.
- You can adjust the cooking power with 11 different levels for more control.
- The one-touch start and easy defrost options save you time.
- Its compact size is perfect for small kitchens.
- The interior LED light makes it easy to see your food.
What Could Be Improved:
- The input power is 1400 watts, which is higher than some other microwaves.
- You need to follow specific steps to open the child lock.
Overall, this TOSHIBA microwave is a user-friendly appliance that brings convenience and safety to your kitchen.
4. Countertop Microwave Ovens 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700 Watts Microwave Oven With LED Lighting
Rating: 9.4/10
This Countertop Microwave Oven, a 0.7 cu. ft. powerhouse with 700 watts of cooking energy, brings convenience and speed to your kitchen. Its compact design makes it a perfect fit for small apartments, dorm rooms, or any space where every inch counts. Get ready to heat, defrost, and cook your favorite meals with ease.
What We Like:
- It’s powerful with 700 watts, making meals fast.
- You can choose from 10 power levels and 6 one-touch cooking options like popcorn and pizza.
- Defrosting is easy, either by weight or time.
- Its small size (0.7 cu. ft.) is great for tight spaces.
- The LED display and interior light help you see and keep track of time.
- A 9.6″ glass turntable ensures even cooking.
- The child lock adds extra safety for families.
- Cleaning the inside is simple.
What Could Be Improved:
- While compact, some might want a slightly larger capacity for bigger meals.
- The 6 one-touch options are good, but a few more specialized presets could be helpful.
This microwave oven offers a fantastic blend of power, smart features, and a space-saving design. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and easy-to-use microwave.
5. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 9.4/10
Looking for a simple and reliable microwave? The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a great choice for your kitchen. It’s compact at 0.7 cubic feet, making it ideal for smaller spaces, and the sleek stainless steel finish looks good anywhere. This microwave heats your food evenly with 700 watts of power and has 10 different power levels to choose from. Plus, its easy-to-use digital display and pre-programmed buttons make cooking a breeze.
What We Like:
- It has helpful pre-programmed buttons for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- The 30-second express cooking button is super fast for quick reheating.
- It’s easy to clean thanks to the removable glass turntable.
- The child safety lock gives parents peace of mind.
- The push-button door is simple and convenient to open.
- The large LED display is very easy to read.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic feet size might be a bit small for larger dishes or family meals.
- While 700 watts is good for everyday use, it might take a little longer to cook some foods compared to higher-wattage microwaves.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid, user-friendly appliance that gets the job done. It’s a great option for dorm rooms, small apartments, or anyone needing a dependable microwave for everyday tasks.
Your Mini Microwave Oven Buying Guide: Big Power in a Small Package
So, you’re eyeing a mini microwave oven? Smart move! These little powerhouses are perfect for small spaces, dorm rooms, or just heating up a quick snack. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? Let’s break it down.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep an eye out for these important features:
- Size and Capacity: This is the most obvious. Mini microwaves are smaller, but their capacity still matters. Measure where you plan to put it and think about what you’ll be heating. A small capacity might only fit a mug, while a slightly larger one can handle a small plate.
- Wattage: Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most mini microwaves range from 600 to 1000 watts. For quick reheating, 700-800 watts is usually enough. If you plan to cook more, aim for 900 watts or higher.
- Turntable: A rotating turntable ensures even heating. It spins your food around, so one side doesn’t get super hot while the other stays cold. Most mini microwaves have this.
- Pre-set Cooking Options: Some microwaves come with buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or baked potatoes. These take the guesswork out of cooking.
- Digital Display and Controls: A clear digital display makes it easy to see the time and settings. Simple buttons are better than confusing dials.
- Safety Features: Look for child lock features if you have little ones around. Auto shut-off is also a good safety measure.
2. Important Materials
The materials used in a microwave can affect its durability and how well it cooks.
- Exterior: Most mini microwaves have a durable plastic or stainless steel exterior. Stainless steel looks sleeker and is easier to clean, but plastic is lighter and often cheaper.
- Interior: The inside cavity is usually made of painted metal. This coating helps reflect microwaves. Make sure the interior is smooth and easy to wipe down.
- Door: The door is typically made of glass with a metal frame. The glass lets you see your food cooking. Look for a sturdy handle that feels good to grip.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A few things can make a mini microwave great or not-so-great.
- Build Quality: A microwave that feels solid and well-built will last longer. Check if the door closes tightly and if the buttons feel responsive.
- Ease of Cleaning: Nobody likes a greasy microwave. A smooth interior with no hard-to-reach nooks and crannies makes cleaning a breeze. Removable turntables are also a big plus.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves can be quite loud. If you’re using it in a quiet space, like a dorm room, check reviews for noise complaints.
- Even Heating: This is crucial. A good mini microwave heats your food evenly. If you notice cold spots, the microwave might not be distributing the microwaves well.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll actually use your mini microwave.
- For Dorm Rooms: Perfect for heating up ramen, snacks, or reheating leftovers. Its small size saves precious desk or counter space.
- For Small Apartments or Offices: Great for a quick lunch or a warm drink without taking up much room.
- For Single People or Couples: If you don’t cook elaborate meals, a mini microwave can handle most of your heating needs.
- Easy Operation: You want a microwave that’s simple to use. Plug it in, set the time, and press start. Pre-set buttons can make it even easier.
- Portability: Some mini microwaves are light enough to move around easily if needed, though they are still appliances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Mini Microwave Ovens
Q: What is the main benefit of a mini microwave?
A: The main benefit is its compact size. It saves space, making it ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices.
Q: How powerful are mini microwaves compared to regular ones?
A: Mini microwaves usually have lower wattage, meaning they might cook food a little slower than larger models. However, they are still effective for heating and simple cooking tasks.
Q: Can I cook full meals in a mini microwave?
A: While you can reheat leftovers and heat up pre-made meals, cooking complex dishes from scratch might be difficult due to the smaller size and potentially lower wattage.
Q: What is the average capacity of a mini microwave?
A: The capacity typically ranges from 0.5 to 1.0 cubic feet. This is enough for a mug, a small plate, or a single-serving meal.
Q: Do I need a special type of dish for a mini microwave?
A: Yes, you should only use microwave-safe dishes. This includes glass, ceramic, and certain plastics. Never use metal or aluminum foil.
Q: How do I clean a mini microwave?
A: Wipe the interior with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tough spots, heat a bowl of water with lemon juice or vinegar inside for a few minutes, then wipe clean.
Q: Are mini microwaves energy efficient?
A: They generally use less energy than larger microwaves because they have smaller components and require less power to operate.
Q: What does wattage mean in a microwave?
A: Wattage measures the microwave’s power. Higher wattage means faster cooking times.
Q: Is a turntable necessary in a mini microwave?
A: A turntable is highly recommended. It spins your food to ensure it heats evenly on all sides.
Q: Where is the best place to put a mini microwave?
A: Place it on a stable, flat surface with good ventilation. Leave some space around it, especially at the back and sides, for air circulation.
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!