Imagine this: you’ve just moved into a cozy apartment, or maybe you’re finally getting that adorable mini-fridge for your dorm room. But then you realize, where will the microwave go? Finding a microwave that fits perfectly into a small kitchen or limited space can feel like a puzzle. You want something that heats your snacks quickly and efficiently, but also doesn’t hog all your precious counter space. It’s a common problem many people face when they don’t have a lot of room.
Choosing the right small microwave isn’t just about size, though. You also want to make sure it’s powerful enough for your needs and has the features you actually use, without being overwhelming. It can be tricky to sort through all the different brands and models, trying to figure out which one is the best fit for your unique situation.
This blog post is here to help you conquer that challenge! We’ll explore the world of small microwaves, highlighting what makes them great and what to look for when you’re shopping. By the end, you’ll feel much more confident in picking a small microwave that’s just right for your home. Let’s dive in and find the perfect mini-chef for your kitchen!
Our Top 5 Small Size Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Small Size Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 9.4/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact powerhouse that makes everyday cooking a breeze. Its sleek black design fits perfectly on any kitchen counter, and with 700 watts of power, it heats and cooks food quickly. This microwave is packed with features to make your life easier, from one-touch cooking presets to adjustable power levels and a handy mute button for quiet operation.
What We Like:
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Six popular presets like popcorn, pizza, and veggies make cooking simple. You can also just press a number key for instant cooking.
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: Ten power levels let you control how your food cooks, from melting butter to fast reheating.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: Setting time and power is easy. The +30 seconds button adds extra cooking time when you need it.
- MEMORY FUNCTION: Save your favorite cooking settings for one-touch access to your most-used meals.
- SAFETY FIRST: A child safety lock keeps the door secure, and a lock mode prevents accidental use.
- MUTE OPTION: Turn off annoying beeps with the Audio Button for quiet cooking.
- MODERN DESIGN: The compact, black design looks great in any kitchen. Eco Mode helps save power and turns off the display.
- EASY TO CLEAN: The durable exterior wipes clean easily. The glass turntable is even dishwasher safe.
- TRUSTED QUALITY: cETL approved with advanced safety features and a 1-year warranty from Chefman.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be small for larger families or big meal prep.
- While it has many presets, some users might prefer more advanced or customizable cooking programs.
This Chefman microwave is a reliable and user-friendly addition to any kitchen. It offers a great balance of features and performance for its size and price.
2. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 8.8/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a compact and user-friendly appliance perfect for any kitchen. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks great on any countertop. This 0.7 cubic foot microwave packs a punch with 700 watts of cooking power and 10 different power settings. It’s designed for convenience, making reheating leftovers or cooking quick meals a breeze.
What We Like:
- It has handy pre-programmed buttons for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- The 30-second express cooking button is super convenient for quick reheating.
- The large LED display and easy-to-read control panel make it simple to use.
- A child safety lock gives parents peace of mind.
- The removable glass turntable ensures even cooking and is easy to clean.
- The push-button door release makes opening the microwave quick and easy.
- It comes with a kitchen timer and a clock, which are useful features.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some might find the 0.7 cubic foot capacity a bit small for larger dishes.
- While powerful, 700 watts might be slower for some cooking tasks compared to higher wattage microwaves.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave oven offers a good balance of features and affordability. It’s a solid choice for dorm rooms, small apartments, or anyone needing a reliable microwave for everyday use.
3. Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts
Rating: 8.5/10
Meet the Farberware Countertop Microwave, your new best friend for quick meals! This 700-watt microwave is compact but mighty, fitting perfectly into apartments, dorm rooms, or any small kitchen. Its stainless steel finish looks great and is a breeze to clean.
What We Like:
- Powerful Cooking: It boasts 700 watts of power for speedy reheating and cooking.
- Customizable Options: Ten power levels and six one-touch settings (like popcorn and potato) give you control.
- Smart Defrost: Defrost food by weight or time, making meal prep even faster.
- Compact Design: The 0.7 cu. ft. size is ideal for small spaces without sacrificing cooking ability.
- User-Friendly Features: An LED display, kitchen timer, clock, and interior lighting make it easy to use.
- Safety First: The child lock feature provides extra peace of mind.
- Easy Maintenance: The interior and exterior are designed for simple cleaning.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Capacity: While compact, its 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be too small for larger families or big meal prep sessions.
- Basic Features: It lacks some of the more advanced presets or smart features found in larger, more expensive models.
This Farberware microwave is a fantastic option for anyone needing a reliable, easy-to-use appliance. It’s a great value for its size and functionality.
4. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 8.5/10
The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, especially if you’re looking for convenience and a little peace and quiet. This sleek black microwave is compact, fitting perfectly on your countertop, and offers a good amount of space inside with its 0.7 cubic feet capacity. It’s designed to make your cooking and reheating tasks simple and efficient, with handy features for busy households.
What We Like:
- The mute function is a game-changer! You can finally reheat your snacks without those loud beeps.
- ECO Mode saves energy by reducing standby power, which is great for your wallet and the environment.
- One-touch express cooking buttons let you heat things up quickly from 1 to 6 minutes, plus a handy 30-second button.
- It has easy auto-cook options for popular foods like popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and frozen vegetables.
- The child safety lock keeps little hands from accidentally starting the microwave.
- A bright digital display and clear control panel make it easy to see and use.
- The interior light helps you keep an eye on your food as it cooks.
- It comes with a one-year limited warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many useful features, the 0.7 cubic feet size might be a bit small for larger dishes or families.
- The defrost settings are good, but some users might prefer more advanced or specific defrost options.
Overall, this COMFEE microwave is a solid choice for anyone seeking a user-friendly and quiet cooking experience. Its thoughtful features make everyday kitchen tasks a breeze.
5. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 9.3/10
Tired of noisy microwaves or worrying about little hands accidentally turning it on? The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven might be just what you need. This 0.9 cubic foot microwave packs a punch with 900 watts of power and a sleek black stainless steel finish. It’s designed to be a convenient and safe addition to any apartment kitchen, offering smart features that make cooking easier.
What We Like:
- The **Two-Step Child Lock** is a fantastic safety feature that gives peace of mind.
- You get **6 Preset Menus** for popular foods like popcorn and pizza, making cooking quick and simple.
- With **11 Power Levels**, you can adjust the cooking power for better results, from defrosting to heating up drinks.
- The **Mute Mode** is a game-changer if you dislike loud beeping sounds.
- It’s easy to start cooking for 1-6 minutes at full power with the **One-Touch Start** feature.
- The **Easy Defrost** option lets you defrost food by weight or time.
- The **LED Lighting** inside makes it easy to see your food as it cooks.
- The **10.6-inch Removable Turntable** fits many common dishes and is easy to clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has a mute function, the initial setup for it requires a specific long press on a button.
- The input power is 1400 watts, which is higher than the output power of 900 watts.
This TOSHIBA microwave offers a good balance of features for its size. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a user-friendly and safe countertop microwave.
Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Small Microwave
Are you looking for a microwave that fits your cozy kitchen or busy lifestyle?
Small microwaves are great for small spaces. They are perfect for dorm rooms, apartments, or even as a second microwave in your home. This guide will help you pick the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
1. Size and Capacity
Small microwaves usually have a capacity of 0.7 to 1.0 cubic feet. This is enough space for a mug, a small plate, or a frozen meal. Always check the outside dimensions too. Make sure it fits on your counter or in your cabinet.
2. Wattage
Wattage tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most small microwaves have between 700 and 1000 watts. For quick reheating, 700 watts is fine. For cooking or defrosting, aim for 900 watts or more.
3. Cooking Presets and Functions
Many small microwaves come with helpful presets. These can be for popcorn, pizza, or vegetables. Some also have defrost settings. Look for features that match how you plan to use the microwave.
4. Turntable Size
The turntable is the glass plate that spins inside. Make sure it’s big enough for the dishes you use most. Some small microwaves have removable turntables, which makes cleaning easier.
5. Ease of Use and Controls
You want a microwave that is easy to operate. Look for clear buttons and a simple display. Digital controls are often more precise than manual knobs.
Important Materials
Most microwaves are made with a metal exterior and a glass door. The inside is usually coated with enamel or a non-stick material. These materials are durable and easy to clean. The turntable is typically made of glass.
What Makes a Small Microwave Great (or Not So Great)?
Factors That Improve Quality
- Sturdy Construction: A well-built microwave will last longer.
- Even Heating: The best microwaves heat food evenly.
- Quiet Operation: Some microwaves are noisier than others.
- Easy Cleaning: Non-stick interiors and removable parts make cleaning simple.
- Good Safety Features: Look for child lock features for peace of mind.
Factors That Reduce Quality
- Flimsy Build: A wobbly or lightweight microwave might not be as durable.
- Uneven Cooking: Some microwaves leave cold spots in your food.
- Loud Noise: A noisy microwave can be annoying.
- Difficult Cleaning: Stubborn stains can be hard to remove.
- Poorly Placed Controls: Buttons that are hard to reach or understand can be frustrating.
User Experience and Use Cases
Small microwaves are perfect for:
- Students in Dorms: Reheating leftovers or making instant meals.
- Apartment Dwellers: Saving counter space while still having microwave convenience.
- Office Break Rooms: Quickly heating lunches.
- Adding to a Kitchen: For small tasks like melting butter or warming up a drink.
A good small microwave makes everyday tasks quick and easy. Imagine warming up your coffee in seconds or defrosting chicken for dinner without a fuss. These compact appliances are real time-savers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the average size of a small microwave?
A: Small microwaves typically range from 0.7 to 1.0 cubic feet in internal capacity.
Q: How powerful should a small microwave be?
A: Most small microwaves have a wattage between 700 and 1000 watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking.
Q: Are small microwaves good for cooking meals?
A: They are best for reheating and simple cooking tasks. For complex meals, a larger microwave might be better.
Q: What does “cubic feet” mean for a microwave?
A: Cubic feet measures the internal space inside the microwave. A larger number means more room for food.
Q: How do I clean a small microwave?
A: You can clean it with a damp cloth and mild soap. Removable turntables can be washed separately.
Q: Can I fit a dinner plate in a small microwave?
A: Most small microwaves can fit a standard dinner plate, but it’s best to check the turntable size.
Q: Are there microwaves without turntables?
A: Yes, some small microwaves have flatbed designs without a spinning plate. These can sometimes offer more usable space.
Q: What is the benefit of preset cooking options?
A: Presets take the guesswork out of cooking. You select the food type, and the microwave sets the time and power.
Q: How long do small microwaves typically last?
A: With proper care, a small microwave can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years.
Q: Where is the best place to put a small microwave?
A: They are ideal for countertops, shelves, or even inside cabinets if they have proper ventilation.
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!