Imagine needing a quick snack but having no space for a bulky microwave. Does that sound familiar? Many of us live in smaller homes, dorm rooms, or even just want a convenient appliance for a tiny kitchen. Finding the perfect microwave that fits your needs without taking up all your counter space can feel like a treasure hunt with no map!
The world of microwaves can be confusing. You want something that heats your food fast, but you also need it to be small. You might worry about whether a mini microwave will actually work well or if it’s just a novelty. This is where the “smallest microwave oven” becomes a super important topic for many people. We’ll dive into what makes these compact models tick and why they are a game-changer for tight spaces.
By reading on, you’ll discover what to look for in a small microwave, understand the benefits of going compact, and even learn about some top-rated options. Get ready to learn how to heat up your life, one small microwave at a time!
Our Top 5 Smallest Microwave Oven Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Smallest Microwave Oven Detailed Reviews
1. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 9.4/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact powerhouse, perfect for your kitchen. It offers a 0.7 cubic foot capacity and 700 watts of cooking power, making it ideal for quick meals and snacks. This black microwave combines convenience with smart features, designed to make your daily cooking easier and more efficient.
What We Like:
- Extra-Quick Cooking: Six handy presets (popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, leftovers) and number pad entry for instant cooking.
- Adjustable Power: Ten power levels let you melt butter or cook food fast.
- Easy Digital Controls: Simple to set time and power, with a +30 seconds button for extra cooking time.
- Memory Function: Save your favorite cooking settings for one-touch access.
- Safety Features: A child safety lock on the handle and a control panel lock keep little hands safe.
- Mute Option: Turn off beeps with the audio button, perfect for quiet kitchens.
- Modern Design: Its sleek black finish fits well with any kitchen decor.
- Eco Mode: Save energy and turn off the display when not in use.
- Easy to Clean: The exterior wipes clean easily, and the glass turntable is dishwasher safe.
- Trusted Quality: cETL approved with advanced safety and a 1-year Chefman warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic foot capacity might be small for larger families or cooking big dishes.
- While powerful for its size, it may not cook as quickly as higher wattage microwaves.
Overall, this Chefman microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen for its ease of use and helpful features.
2. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 8.6/10
The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a great addition to any kitchen. It’s compact at 0.7 cubic feet, making it ideal for smaller spaces. This microwave is designed for ease of use with simple one-touch buttons and a clear digital display. Plus, it has a handy mute function so you won’t be bothered by beeps.
What We Like:
- The mute function lets you turn off all sounds, which is perfect for quiet mornings or late-night snacks.
- ECO Mode saves energy by reducing standby power, which is good for your wallet and the environment.
- The easy auto-cook functions like popcorn, potato, and pizza take the guesswork out of cooking.
- One-touch express cooking lets you heat food quickly with simple 1-6 minute buttons and a plus 30-second option.
- It has two defrost settings, by weight or by time, making defrosting food simple.
- The child safety lock keeps little hands from accidentally starting the microwave.
- The bright digital display and easy-to-read control panel make it simple to operate.
- A 10-inch glass turntable fits most standard dishes and rotates for even heating.
- It comes with a one-year limited warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic feet capacity might be too small for larger families or for heating very big dishes.
- While it has express cooking, it doesn’t offer a wide range of advanced cooking presets found in larger models.
This COMFEE microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly countertop appliance. Its quiet operation and energy-saving features make it a smart and practical option.
3. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 9.4/10
Tired of noisy kitchen appliances? The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven in Black Stainless Steel is here to help! This compact microwave fits perfectly in apartments and small kitchens. It’s packed with features that make cooking easy and convenient.
What We Like:
- The mute function is a game-changer! No more loud beeps waking up the house. Just long-press the “8” button to silence it.
- It has 6 auto-menus for popular foods like popcorn and potatoes. This makes cooking a breeze.
- You can choose from 11 power levels. This gives you control over how your food is cooked.
- The child lock feature adds extra safety. It stops little hands from accidentally turning it on.
- It’s easy to defrost food by weight or time. Plus, the one-touch start gets you cooking quickly.
- The 10.6-inch removable turntable fits most plates and is easy to clean.
- The LED lighting inside makes it easy to see your food as it cooks.
What Could Be Improved:
- The external dimensions are 18.7x 14.7x 10.7 inches. It might be a bit large for some very small countertops.
- While it has a mute function, you need to remember to activate it each time you want it silenced.
This TOSHIBA microwave is a great addition to any kitchen, especially for those who value quiet operation and simple cooking. It offers a good balance of features and convenience.
4. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 9.3/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a compact and stylish appliance that can handle your daily cooking needs. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen. This microwave offers a user-friendly experience with its digital display and simple controls. It’s ideal for small kitchens or for anyone who needs a reliable microwave for reheating, cooking, and defrosting.
What We Like:
- It has pre-programmed buttons for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- The 30-second express cooking feature is handy for quick heating.
- The child safety lock gives parents peace of mind.
- It comes with a removable glass turntable that makes cleaning easy.
- The push-button door release is simple to use.
- The large LED display is easy to read.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic feet capacity might be a bit small for larger dishes or families.
- While powerful enough for most tasks, 700 watts might cook slightly slower than higher wattage microwaves.
Overall, this BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for everyday use. It provides convenient features in a compact package, making it a great addition to most kitchens.
5. Farberware FMO07ABTBKA Classic 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700-Watt Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.3/10
The Farberware FMO07ABTBKA Classic 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700-Watt Microwave Oven in black is a great choice for anyone needing a reliable and easy-to-use microwave. It offers a good mix of power and convenience, making it suitable for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or office break rooms. Its compact size means it won’t take up too much space, but it still packs enough punch to heat up leftovers or make a quick snack.
What We Like:
- It’s super convenient for making quick meals.
- It has 700 watts of power, which is good for fast heating.
- You get ten different power levels for precise cooking.
- Six one-touch buttons make cooking popcorn, potatoes, or pizza a breeze.
- You can defrost food by weight or by time.
- It’s the perfect size at 0.7 cu ft, great for small spaces.
- The interior and exterior are easy to wipe clean.
- It has a clear LED display with a clock and timer.
- The interior light helps you see your food as it cooks.
- A child safety lock provides extra peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 700-watt power might be a bit slow for very large meals.
- The 0.7 cu ft capacity might be too small for some families or larger items.
This Farberware microwave is a solid, dependable appliance. It simplifies everyday cooking tasks and fits well into almost any setting.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding Your Tiny Kitchen Hero
What is the Smallest Microwave Oven?
A smallest microwave oven is a compact appliance designed to heat and cook food quickly. It’s perfect for small kitchens, dorm rooms, offices, or anyone who needs a microwave but has limited space. These tiny titans pack a punch, offering convenience in a small package.
1. Key Features to Look For
When hunting for the smallest microwave, keep these features in mind:
Capacity (Cubic Feet)
- Smallest Footprint: Look for models with very low cubic feet capacity, usually 0.5 to 0.7 cubic feet. This means it takes up less counter space.
- Plate Size: Check the interior dimensions. Will your favorite small plates or mugs fit? Some ultra-compact models might struggle with larger items.
Wattage (Power)
- Cooking Speed: Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most small microwaves are between 700-1000 watts. For quick reheating, 700 watts is often enough.
- Even Heating: Powerful microwaves tend to heat food more evenly.
Presets and Functions
- Basic Needs: Most small microwaves offer simple controls for popcorn, reheating, and defrosting.
- Digital Displays: Easy-to-read digital displays help you set cooking times accurately.
Turntable
- Even Cooking: A rotating turntable helps cook food evenly. Some very small microwaves might not have one to save space.
- Removable: If it has a turntable, make sure it’s easy to remove for cleaning.
Size and Dimensions
- Exact Measurements: Always check the external dimensions. Measure your intended space before buying.
- Door Swing: Consider which way the door opens. Does it have enough clearance in your space?
2. Important Materials
The materials used affect durability and safety:
- Exterior: Most are made of durable plastic or painted metal. Stainless steel looks nice but can be heavier.
- Interior: The inside is usually coated with a ceramic or enamel finish. This makes it easy to wipe clean and resistant to scratches.
- Door: The door has a glass window so you can see your food cooking. The glass is usually tempered for safety.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a small microwave great or not so great?
Quality Boosters
- Sturdy Build: A well-built microwave feels solid and doesn’t vibrate excessively when running.
- Consistent Heating: It heats food evenly without hot or cold spots.
- Easy Controls: Simple buttons and clear displays make it user-friendly.
- Quiet Operation: A quieter motor is a plus, especially in shared spaces.
Quality Reducers
- Flimsy Construction: A light, wobbly microwave might not last long.
- Uneven Cooking: If food is always cold in the middle or burnt on the edges, the heating is poor.
- Complicated Controls: Confusing buttons or a lack of clear instructions can be frustrating.
- Loud Noise: A noisy microwave can be a nuisance.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use your tiny microwave?
User Experience
A good small microwave is a joy to use. It should be intuitive, heating your food quickly and effectively. Cleaning should be simple. The compact size means it won’t clutter your precious counter space.
Use Cases
- Dorm Rooms: Perfect for students who need to heat up meals or snacks between classes.
- Office Breakrooms: A great addition for a small office where space is limited.
- Tiny Apartments: Ideal for studio apartments or small kitchens where every inch counts.
- Guest Rooms: Offer guests a way to heat beverages or snacks without needing to go to the main kitchen.
- RV or Boat Kitchens: Compact and convenient for life on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are the smallest microwaves as good as bigger ones?
A: They are good for their size. They might not cook as fast or have as many features as larger models, but they do the job of heating and cooking well for basic needs.
Q: Can I fit a standard dinner plate in the smallest microwaves?
A: Usually, no. You will need to check the interior dimensions carefully. Many small microwaves are designed for smaller bowls or plates.
Q: How much counter space does a smallest microwave take up?
A: They are designed to take up very little space. Their width is often under 15 inches, and their depth can be around 10-12 inches.
Q: Are they energy efficient?
A: Yes, because they have lower wattage and smaller cooking spaces, they generally use less electricity than larger microwaves.
Q: What is the typical wattage for the smallest microwaves?
A: Most smallest microwaves have a wattage between 700 and 1000 watts.
Q: Do they have a turntable?
A: Some do, but many of the absolute smallest models skip the turntable to save internal space.
Q: Are they safe to use?
A: Yes, like all microwaves, they are designed with safety features to prevent radiation leakage.
Q: Can I cook a whole meal in a smallest microwave?
A: You can reheat or cook simple meals, but they are best suited for reheating leftovers, making popcorn, or cooking small portions.
Q: How do I clean a smallest microwave?
A: You can clean them by wiping the interior with a damp cloth and mild soap. For stubborn spots, you can heat a bowl of water with lemon juice for a few minutes to loosen grime.
Q: What should I do if my smallest microwave is not heating food?
A: First, check if it is plugged in properly and if the door is closed securely. If it still doesn’t heat, it might need repair or replacement.
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!