Imagine needing a quick snack or a warm drink, but your kitchen counter is already overflowing with appliances. Sound familiar? For many people, finding space for a microwave is a real challenge. That’s where the magic of a small microwave comes in. But with so many tiny options out there, how do you pick the best one for *your* needs without feeling overwhelmed?
Choosing a small microwave can be tricky. You want something that fits your limited space, but you also need it to actually cook your food properly. It’s a balancing act between size and performance. You might worry about getting a microwave that’s too small to fit your plate, or one that’s so basic it can’t even heat up leftovers effectively. We’ve all been there, staring at confusing specifications and wondering what really matters.
Don’t worry! This post will help you navigate the world of compact cooking. We’ll break down what to look for, highlight some of the top small microwave models, and explain their cool features. By the end, you’ll feel confident choosing a tiny microwave that saves space and still gets the job done, making your kitchen life a little bit easier.
Our Top 5 Smallest Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Smallest Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 8.9/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact powerhouse, perfect for small kitchens or anyone needing a quick and efficient way to heat food. Its 0.7 cubic foot capacity is just right for single servings, dorm rooms, or office break rooms. With 700 watts of power and 10 different power levels, you can cook or reheat anything from melting butter to making popcorn in a flash. This microwave makes cooking easy with its 6 handy presets and a simple number pad for quick cooking times.
What We Like:
- It cooks food very quickly.
- You can choose from 10 different power levels.
- It has 6 easy-to-use cooking presets.
- The digital controls are simple to understand.
- You can save your favorite cooking settings.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands out.
- The mute button lets you cook without noise.
- Its sleek black design looks good in any kitchen.
- Cleaning is a breeze, inside and out.
- It’s a trusted brand with safety approval and a 1-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic foot size might be too small for larger meals or families.
This Chefman microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen looking for convenience and simplicity. It’s a reliable appliance that makes everyday cooking tasks quick and easy.
2. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 8.6/10
The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact and feature-rich appliance designed for modern kitchens. Its sleek black finish and 0.7 cubic feet capacity make it a great fit for smaller spaces. This microwave simplifies cooking with its easy one-touch buttons and convenient express cooking options. Plus, the ability to turn off the sounds makes it a peaceful addition to any home.
What We Like:
- The mute function is fantastic for quiet operation, especially late at night or early in the morning.
- ECO Mode significantly cuts down on standby power, saving energy and money.
- One-touch express cooking is super handy for quickly heating food with just one button press.
- The auto-cook functions for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and more take the guesswork out of cooking.
- A child safety lock provides peace of mind for families with young children.
- The bright digital display and easy-to-read control panel make it simple to use.
- The 10-inch glass turntable fits most standard dishes and rotates food evenly.
- It comes with a one-year limited warranty for added security.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic feet capacity might be a bit small for larger families or when heating very big items.
- While it has express cooking, some users might prefer more advanced custom cooking settings.
Overall, the COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB offers great convenience and energy efficiency for everyday microwave needs.
3. Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 Retro Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.0/10
Bring a touch of retro charm to your kitchen with the Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 Retro Microwave Oven. This eye-catching microwave in Bebop Blue isn’t just about looks; it packs a punch with 700 watts of cooking power and a convenient 0.7 cu. ft. capacity. Its user-friendly design features a classic pull handle and a bright LED display, making everyday meal prep a breeze.
What We Like:
- The 700W power with six variable levels lets you cook and reheat food perfectly.
- Defrosting is simple, whether you choose time or weight.
- The interior light lets you check your food without opening the door.
- A child lock feature keeps little ones safe and prevents accidental use.
- The 360° rotating glass turntable ensures your food heats evenly for better taste.
- The retro design and Bebop Blue color add a stylish pop to any kitchen counter.
- The LED display is easy to read and clearly shows the remaining cooking time.
What Could Be Improved:
- For larger families, the 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might feel a bit small.
- The pull handle, while stylish, might require a bit more space to operate compared to a push-button door.
This Galanz microwave is a fantastic option for anyone seeking a functional and stylish appliance. It makes cooking and reheating quick and easy, all while adding a fun retro vibe to your kitchen.
4. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 8.7/10
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) is a smart, compact microwave that makes cooking easy. Its sleek Black Stainless Steel finish looks great in any kitchen, especially in apartments or smaller spaces. This microwave is designed for convenience and safety, offering helpful features for everyone in the family.
What We Like:
- It has a Two-Step Child Lock to keep little hands safe.
- The 900-watt power cooks food quickly.
- It comes with a 10.6-inch removable glass turntable that’s easy to clean.
- Six preset menus, like popcorn and potato, take the guesswork out of cooking.
- Eleven different power levels and a kitchen timer give you lots of cooking options.
- The “Easy Defrost” and “One Touch Start” features make quick meals simple.
- You can turn off the beeping sound with the Mute Mode, which is great for quiet kitchens.
- The internal LED lighting makes it easy to see your food while it cooks.
What Could Be Improved:
- The external dimensions are a bit wider than some other compact microwaves.
- Operating the child lock requires following specific steps shown in a diagram.
This Toshiba microwave is a fantastic addition for anyone seeking a user-friendly and versatile cooking appliance. It balances powerful performance with thoughtful features for a great kitchen experience.
5. Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts
Rating: 8.6/10
The Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts, 0.7 Cu. Ft. is a handy kitchen appliance designed for quick meals. It’s a great option for smaller spaces like apartments or dorm rooms. This microwave makes cooking easy with its 700 watts of power and simple controls.
What We Like:
- It cooks food fast with 700 watts of power.
- You can choose from ten different power levels.
- It has six one-touch buttons for things like popcorn and pizza.
- Defrosting food is easy with weight or time settings.
- The 0.7 cu. ft. size fits well in small kitchens.
- The interior and exterior are easy to wipe clean.
- It has a clear LED display that shows the time and a kitchen timer.
- The interior light lets you see your food as it cooks.
- A child safety lock keeps little ones safe.
- Farberware is a trusted brand for kitchen tools.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might want a larger capacity for bigger meals.
- The 700-watt power might not be enough for very quick cooking of dense foods.
This Farberware microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a dependable and easy-to-use appliance. It offers great convenience for daily cooking needs.
The Tiniest Kitchen Helper: Your Guide to the Smallest Microwaves
Looking for a microwave that fits in a tight spot or is just perfect for one person? Small microwaves are awesome! They save space and are super handy. Let’s explore what makes a good tiny microwave.
Why Choose a Small Microwave?
Small microwaves are great for small kitchens. Dorm rooms, studio apartments, or even your office desk can use one. They are also good for single people who don’t need a big oven. They heat up food fast and don’t take up much room.
Key Features to Look For
1. Size and Capacity
- Dimensions: Check the outside measurements. Make sure it fits where you want it.
- Interior Space: Look at the cubic feet. Even small ones have different amounts of space inside. A 0.7 cubic foot microwave is pretty small.
- Turntable Size: Make sure your favorite plate or mug fits on the spinning plate.
2. Wattage (Power)
Microwave power is measured in watts. More watts mean faster cooking. Most small microwaves have between 600 and 900 watts. For quick reheating, 700 watts is usually enough. For cooking a little more, aim for 800 watts or higher.
3. Controls and Presets
- Simple Buttons: Easy-to-use buttons are best. You want to set the time and power without a struggle.
- Preset Options: Some small microwaves have buttons for popcorn, pizza, or drinks. These make cooking certain foods super easy.
- Digital Display: A clear screen helps you see the cooking time.
4. Ease of Cleaning
Nobody likes scrubbing a microwave. Look for models with smooth interiors. Removable turntables make cleaning much simpler. A wipe-clean exterior is a bonus.
Important Materials
Most microwaves are made of plastic and metal. The inside is usually a metal cavity. The door has glass. Good quality plastic doesn’t get too hot. Strong metal helps the microwave last longer. The glass door should feel sturdy.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Small Microwave Great:
- Even Heating: The best microwaves heat food all the way through.
- Quiet Operation: A loud microwave can be annoying. Quieter models are better.
- Durable Build: A microwave that feels solid and well-made will last longer.
- Simple Interface: Easy controls make it user-friendly.
What Can Make a Small Microwave Less Good:
- Hot Spots: If food doesn’t cook evenly, you might get cold spots.
- Flimsy Parts: A door that feels wobbly or buttons that stick are signs of lower quality.
- Short Cord: A very short power cord can limit where you can place it.
- Difficult Cleaning: Stubborn stains or hard-to-reach corners are frustrating.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a small microwave is usually straightforward. You put your food inside, close the door, set the time, and press start. They are perfect for:
- Heating up leftovers.
- Making a quick cup of tea or coffee.
- Cooking microwave popcorn.
- Defrosting small amounts of food.
- Preparing simple snacks.
Think about how you will use it most. If you only reheat soup, a basic model is fine. If you want to cook frozen meals, you’ll need a bit more power.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Small Microwaves
Q: What is the smallest size microwave available?
A: The smallest microwaves often have an interior capacity of around 0.5 to 0.7 cubic feet. Their outer dimensions are very compact.
Q: Are small microwaves as powerful as big ones?
A: They can be. Wattage is the key. Some small microwaves have high wattage (like 900W), while others are lower (around 600W). Higher wattage cooks food faster.
Q: Can I fit a standard dinner plate in a small microwave?
A: It depends on the specific model. Always check the turntable diameter or the interior width to be sure your plates will fit.
Q: How much counter space does a small microwave take up?
A: They are designed to take up very little space. Many are less than 15 inches wide and deep.
Q: Are small microwaves good for cooking full meals?
A: They are best for reheating or cooking simple items. Cooking larger meals might be difficult due to the limited space and sometimes lower wattage.
Q: What are the typical power settings on a small microwave?
A: Most have multiple power levels, often from 10% to 100%. Some have specific buttons for common foods like popcorn.
Q: Is a smaller microwave more energy-efficient?
A: Generally, yes. They use less energy because they have smaller heating elements and smaller ovens to heat up.
Q: How do I clean a small microwave?
A: You can usually wipe the inside with a damp cloth and mild soap. Removable turntables can be washed in the sink or dishwasher.
Q: Do small microwaves come with a warranty?
A: Yes, most new microwaves come with a manufacturer’s warranty, usually for one year.
Q: Where is the best place to buy a small microwave?
A: You can find them at most appliance stores, department stores, and online retailers like Amazon.
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!