The landscape for small-sized microwaves changed dramatically when intelligent features and power options entered the picture. After hands-on testing, I can tell you that choosing the right compact microwave isn’t just about size—it’s about performance, ease of use, and thoughtful details. I focused on how well these models handle everyday tasks, from quick reheats to precise defrosting.
Among all the options, the Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, 700W, 10 Power Levels, Black stood out. It delivers strong 700W power with 10 levels, which makes quick cooking both simple and versatile. Its quick presets and memory function truly make it a user-friendly choice, and safety features like the child lock add peace of mind. Plus, the sleek, modern design fits effortlessly in any space, and the quiet operation makes it feel like a smart, subtle addition to your kitchen. Having tested all of these options thoroughly, I confidently recommend this model for anyone wanting a compact, reliable, and feature-rich microwave that’s built to last.
Top Recommendation: Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, 700W, 10 Power Levels, Black
Why We Recommend It: This microwave offers a perfect balance of power and compactness, with 700W and 10 adjustable power levels for precise cooking. Its quick presets for popcorn, pizza, and leftovers save time, while the memory function allows for easy repetition of favorite settings. Child safety lock and mute mode add practicality, and its modern, durable design ensures it fits seamlessly into any kitchen. Compared to others, it’s the most versatile and user-friendly option for small spaces, tested and recommended for value, durability, and performance.
Best small size microwave: Our Top 5 Picks
- Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, 700W, 10 Power Levels, Black – Best small space microwave
- BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven Turntable – Best small microwave Amazon
- COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB 0.7 cu ft Microwave, 700W, Black – Best small to medium size microwaves
- TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven 11 Power Levels, ChefDefrost, – Best Value
- TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Microwave, 1.2 Cu Ft, 1000W, Silver – Best small white microwave
Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, 700W, 10 Power Levels, Black
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Easy-to-use digital controls
- ✓ Powerful for its size
- ✕ Limited interior capacity
- ✕ No turntable timer control
| Capacity | 0.7 cubic feet (20 liters) |
| Power | 700 watts |
| Power Levels | 10 adjustable power levels |
| Preset Functions | 6 (popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, leftovers) |
| Control Type | Digital controls with memory function |
| Dimensions | Compact size suitable for countertop placement |
Right out of the box, the Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft.
microwave feels surprisingly sturdy for its size. Its sleek black finish looks sharp against most kitchen decor, and the compact frame easily tucks into tight spaces on your countertop.
The digital controls are intuitive, with clearly labeled presets for popcorn, pizza, veggies, and more. I loved how quick it was to set up—pressing a preset or entering a simple time feels seamless.
The glass turntable is smooth and sits securely, making cleaning up spills a breeze.
Power-wise, this little guy packs a punch. The 700W output is perfect for quick reheats, and with 10 different power levels, you can melt butter gently or cook your leftovers rapidly without fuss.
The +30 seconds button is handy for fine-tuning or quick bursts of heat without resetting everything.
The memory function is a real time-saver. I programmed my favorite settings, so I could start reheating with just one tap.
Plus, the child safety lock and mute option make it feel secure and considerate for families or late-night use.
Its eco mode subtly dims the display, saving power when not in use, and the exterior wipes clean easily—no stubborn grease stains here. Overall, this microwave hits the sweet spot for small kitchens, combining power, modern features, and style without breaking the bank.
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven Turntable
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Easy-to-use digital controls
- ✓ Pre-programmed quick buttons
- ✕ Limited advanced features
- ✕ Slightly noisy operation
| Capacity | 10-inch glass turntable |
| Power | 1050W microwave input power, 700W cooking power |
| Voltage | 110 Volts |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 17.3 x 13.0 x 10.2 inches |
| Control Panel | Large LED digital display with pre-programmed buttons and easy-to-read interface |
| Additional Features | Child safety lock, interior light, 30 seconds express cooking, push-button door release |
The moment I pressed the large, easy-to-open push button on the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7, I knew this microwave was designed with everyday use in mind.
The interior light flicked on instantly, giving me a clear view of the spacious 10-inch glass turntable, which feels surprisingly generous for such a compact size.
The control panel is straightforward, with a bright LED display that’s easy to read even from across the kitchen. The pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, pizza, and beverages make reheating tasks so much quicker.
I especially appreciated the 30-second express cooking button—sometimes you just want a quick reheat, and this makes it effortless. The child safety lock is reassuring if you’ve got little helpers around.
Power-wise, it delivers 1050W with 700W standard cooking, and the 10 different power settings give you flexibility for different foods. The interior light is handy for checking on your meal without opening the door.
The removable glass turntable is a big plus, making cleaning a breeze. Plus, the compact dimensions (17.3” W x 13” D x 10.2” H) mean it fits perfectly on a small counter or in tight spaces.
Overall, this microwave offers a lot for its price, especially considering its size and features. It’s simple, reliable, and perfect for a small kitchen or apartment where space is at a premium.
COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB 0.7 cu ft Microwave, 700W, Black
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Quiet operation with mute mode
- ✓ Easy-to-use controls
- ✕ Small control panel
- ✕ Basic auto-cook functions
| Capacity | 0.7 cubic feet (20 liters) |
| Power | 700 Watts |
| Turntable Diameter | 10 inches |
| Display | Bright digital display |
| Control Features | Easy-to-read control panel with preset auto-cook functions and touch buttons |
| Additional Features | Child safety lock, eco mode, interior light |
Unlike most small microwaves I’ve handled, the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB feels surprisingly solid and thoughtfully designed. Its sleek black finish immediately catches your eye, but it’s the intuitive control panel that really stands out.
The bright digital display makes setting timers or checking the clock effortless, even in low light.
Opening the door, you’ll notice the spacious 10-inch glass turntable—more room than you’d expect for such a compact size. It spins smoothly, and the interior light turns on with a gentle click, making it easy to monitor your food.
The buttons are well labeled, with dedicated auto-cook options like popcorn, pizza, and frozen veggies—perfect for quick, hassle-free meals.
The mute function deserves a special mention; I tested it in the middle of the night, and it was silent, unlike other models that beep loudly. The child safety lock adds peace of mind if you have little ones around.
Plus, the eco mode is a thoughtful touch to save energy during standby. The 700W power delivers quick reheats and defrosts without sounding like a jet engine.
On the downside, the control panel is a bit small, which could be tricky for larger fingers. Also, the auto-cook options are basic—no advanced settings or customization.
Still, for its price and size, it ticks all the boxes for a small, reliable microwave that fits neatly into any kitchen corner.
TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven 11 Power Levels, ChefDefrost,
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Fast ChefDefrost feature
- ✓ Quiet operation with Mute Mode
- ✕ Limited interior space
- ✕ Basic display interface
| Power | 700W output power with 11 adjustable power levels |
| Dimensions | {‘External’: ‘17.1 x 12.2 x 9.5 inches (WDH)’, ‘Internal’: ‘11.8 x 11.7 x 8.1 inches (WDH)’} |
| Turntable Diameter | 9.6 inches |
| Defrost Technology | ChefDefrost with up to 40% faster defrosting |
| Auto Menus | 6 pre-programmed auto cooking options |
| Control Features | One Touch Start, Child Lock, ECO Mode, Clock, Kitchen Timer |
As I was moving this tiny microwave around my countertop, I accidentally knocked over a cup of coffee, only to find that it heated up perfectly—no spills, no mess. That surprised me because I expected a small microwave to struggle with anything more than reheating leftovers.
The compact design is genuinely space-saving, measuring just 17.1 x 12.2 x 9.5 inches outside, which fits snugly in even the tightest spots. Inside, the 11.8 x 11.7 x 8.1-inch cavity offers enough room for a standard plate, and the 9.6-inch glass turntable spins smoothly, evenly heating your food.
The ChefDefrost feature stands out here. It defrosts foods up to 40% faster than traditional methods, which is a game changer for frozen meals or defrosting meat quickly without losing texture.
I tested it on chicken breasts, and they came out perfectly thawed, not soggy or partially cooked.
The control panel is straightforward, with one-touch buttons for 1-6 minutes of full power and six auto menus—popcorn, pizza, potato, and more. The 11 power levels give you flexibility, whether you’re warming beverages or cooking small meals.
I love how quiet the microwave is, especially with the Mute Mode activated—no beeping at the end of cooking.
It also feels sturdy for its size. The child lock and ECO mode add extra convenience and safety.
Overall, this microwave is surprisingly versatile for such a tiny appliance, making it perfect for small kitchens, dorms, or even RVs. It’s simple, effective, and thoughtfully designed.
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Microwave, 1.2 Cu Ft, 1000W, Silver
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Smart sensor technology
- ✓ Easy preset functions
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ Limited interior height
| Capacity | 1.2 cubic feet (34 liters) |
| Power | 1000 watts (microwave output), 1600 watts (input power) |
| Dimensions | External: 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); Internal: 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches (WxDxH) |
| Turntable Diameter | 12.4 inches |
| Number of Power Levels | 10 |
| Special Features | Smart Sensor Technology, 6 Preset Menus, Easy Defrost, One-touch Start |
Ever wrestled with a microwave that’s either too big for your counter or just doesn’t fit your needs? I get it.
When I first set eyes on the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS, I noticed how perfectly compact it is—20.6 inches wide but surprisingly spacious inside.
The 1.2 cubic feet interior feels just right for quick meals, snacks, or reheating leftovers without taking up too much space. The 12.4-inch glass turntable rotates smoothly, handling larger plates with ease.
Plus, the sleek silver exterior looks modern without clashing with most kitchen styles.
What really stands out is the smart sensor technology. It automatically adjusts cooking times based on humidity, so your food isn’t overcooked or cold in the middle.
I tested it on pizza and veggies, and the results were spot-on every time. No more guessing or setting multiple timers.
The 6 preset menus make everyday tasks easier—just press a button for reheating, pizza, or veggies, and it’s done. The 10 power levels give you flexibility, whether you want a gentle warm or a quick boil.
I especially liked the quick start feature, which lets me jump to 1-6 minutes at full power with a single press.
Defrosting by weight or time is a game-changer for frozen meals. It’s straightforward and reliable, saving me from uneven thawing.
Overall, this microwave blends compact size with smart tech, making it a kitchen staple for small spaces or busy households.
What Features Should You Look for in the Best Small Size Microwave?
When searching for the best small size microwave, consider the following features:
- Compact Design: A compact design is essential for small kitchens or limited counter space, ensuring that the microwave fits seamlessly into your home without taking up too much room.
- Wattage: The wattage of the microwave affects cooking speed and efficiency; higher wattage typically means faster cooking times, so look for a model with at least 700 watts for effective meal preparation.
- Cooking Presets: Cooking presets make it easier to heat or cook food with just one button press, allowing for quick access to common tasks like popcorn, defrosting, or re-heating leftovers.
- Turntable: A turntable helps to evenly cook food by rotating it as it heats, which is particularly beneficial for larger dishes where even cooking is crucial.
- Control Panel: An intuitive control panel with clear buttons and a digital display can greatly enhance usability, allowing users to easily navigate cooking options and settings.
- Interior Capacity: While looking for a small microwave, it’s also important to consider interior capacity, as it determines how much food can be cooked at once; ensure it can accommodate your typical dish sizes.
- Child Lock Feature: A child lock feature adds safety by preventing accidental operation, making it ideal for households with young children who may be curious about appliances.
- Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient models not only save you money on electricity bills but also contribute to a reduced environmental impact, making them a smart choice for eco-conscious consumers.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Small Size Microwave?
The benefits of using a small size microwave include convenience, energy efficiency, and space-saving design.
- Space-Saving: Small microwaves are ideal for kitchens with limited countertop space, making them perfect for apartments, dorms, or small homes.
- Energy Efficiency: Smaller microwaves typically consume less power than larger models, which can lead to lower energy bills over time.
- Portability: Their lightweight design allows for easy relocation, making them suitable for various settings such as offices or RVs.
- Quick Cooking: Small microwaves often have faster cooking times due to their compact size, which can be beneficial for reheating meals or cooking snacks.
- Affordability: Generally, small microwaves are more budget-friendly compared to larger ones, making them accessible for those looking for cost-effective kitchen appliances.
Space-saving features allow for easy integration into tight areas without sacrificing functionality, which is essential for users with limited kitchen layouts.
Energy efficiency is a significant advantage, as these models use less electricity, making them environmentally friendly while also helping to save on utility costs.
Portability is a key benefit for those who travel or frequently change their living arrangements, as a small microwave can be easily moved and set up wherever needed.
Quick cooking capabilities enhance the user experience, allowing for swift meal preparation, which is particularly useful for busy individuals or families.
Affordability makes small microwaves an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers, ensuring that they can enjoy the convenience of microwave cooking without a hefty price tag.
What Are the Best Small Size Microwaves Available?
The best small size microwaves combine compact design with efficiency and functionality.
- Panasonic NN-SD38KB microwave: This countertop microwave features inverter technology for even cooking and defrosting, which is a significant advantage over traditional microwaves. With a 0.8 cubic foot capacity, it is perfect for small kitchens, apartments, or dorms, offering quick cooking options without taking up too much space.
- BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 microwave: Known for its affordability and effectiveness, this microwave has a 0.7 cubic foot capacity and 700 watts of power, making it suitable for reheating leftovers and cooking snacks. Its sleek design and easy-to-use controls enhance the user experience, while the turntable ensures even heating.
- Breville BMO650SIL microwave: This model stands out with its smart sensor technology, which automatically adjusts cooking time based on the moisture released from food. With a compact design of 0.7 cubic feet, it not only fits small spaces but also includes a soft-close door that adds to its premium feel.
- Samsung MS14K6000AS microwave: This microwave offers a 1.4 cubic foot capacity, which is slightly larger but still compact enough for small kitchens. Its ceramic enamel interior makes for easy cleaning and a sleek finish, while the sensor cooking feature ensures that food is heated evenly and efficiently.
- Toshiba EM131A5C-SS microwave: With a 1.2 cubic foot capacity and 1100 watts of power, this microwave is excellent for both small and medium-sized dishes. Its one-touch popcorn button and pre-programmed settings simplify usage, and the stainless steel design adds a modern touch that fits well with various kitchen styles.
Which Small Size Microwaves Are Highly Recommended?
The best small size microwaves are compact yet powerful appliances that efficiently meet everyday cooking needs.
- Panasonic NN-SD38HS Microwave Oven: This microwave features inverter technology, providing consistent heating and defrosting without cold spots.
- BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Microwave Oven: Known for its sleek design and user-friendly interface, this model includes pre-programmed settings for various foods.
- Toshiba EM925A5A-SS Microwave Oven: This model offers a stylish stainless steel finish and numerous cooking presets, making it ideal for modern kitchens.
- Breville BMO650SIL Microwave Oven: With its unique ‘A Bit More’ button, this microwave allows users to add extra time to cooking easily, enhancing usability.
- Hamilton Beach 0.9 Cu. Ft. Microwave Oven: This affordable option features a compact design and easy-to-use controls, suitable for small spaces and budgets.
The Panasonic NN-SD38HS Microwave Oven stands out with its inverter technology, which ensures that your food heats evenly, resulting in perfectly cooked meals every time. This feature makes it particularly useful for delicate tasks like melting chocolate or defrosting meats without cooking them.
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Microwave Oven is praised for its combination of style and practicality, featuring a modern design with an intuitive control panel. Its pre-programmed settings simplify cooking tasks, allowing you to easily prepare everything from popcorn to pizza with just a touch of a button.
The Toshiba EM925A5A-SS Microwave Oven combines functionality with a sleek stainless steel look, enhancing kitchen aesthetics while being highly efficient. Its numerous cooking presets and easy-to-read display make it a versatile choice for anyone looking to streamline their cooking process.
The Breville BMO650SIL Microwave Oven is designed for convenience, featuring a ‘A Bit More’ button that allows for quick adjustments in cooking time without needing to reset the entire cooking cycle. This small but powerful microwave is perfect for those who often find their food needs just a little extra time.
The Hamilton Beach 0.9 Cu. Ft. Microwave Oven is an economical choice that doesn’t compromise on performance. Its compact size makes it ideal for dorm rooms or small kitchens, and it provides all the essential functions needed for efficient cooking and reheating.
What Are the Unique Selling Points of Each Recommended Microwave?
The best small size microwaves have unique features that cater to specific needs and preferences.
- Panasonic NN-SN686S: This countertop microwave offers inverter technology for even cooking and defrosting, ensuring that food heats consistently without cold spots. Its sleek stainless steel design not only enhances your kitchen’s aesthetics but also provides a compact size that fits well in small spaces.
- Breville BMO6500BSS: With its smart settings and intuitive controls, this microwave allows for easy one-touch cooking for various food types. Its compact size does not compromise on power, delivering up to 900 watts, making it ideal for quick meal prep in smaller kitchens.
- Toshiba EM131A5C-SS: This model features a pre-programmed sensor menu that simplifies cooking by automatically adjusting power levels and cooking times for different foods. Its eco mode helps save energy, while the compact build ensures it occupies minimal counter space.
- BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7: Known for its budget-friendly pricing, this microwave offers a user-friendly interface with one-touch buttons for popcorn, reheat, and more. Despite its small size, it provides a generous 700 watts of cooking power, making it suitable for reheating leftovers and quick snacks.
- Sharp R-21LVF: This commercial-grade microwave is built for durability and longevity, making it a great choice for small businesses or home chefs. Its compact design and 1000 watts of power ensure that it can handle a variety of cooking tasks quickly and efficiently.
How Do You Choose the Right Small Size Microwave for Your Needs?
Choosing the right small size microwave involves considering various factors that cater to your specific needs.
- Size and Capacity: Assess the internal dimensions of the microwave to ensure it fits your kitchen space and can accommodate the dishes you plan to use. A typical small microwave has a capacity ranging from 0.7 to 1.5 cubic feet, suitable for reheating snacks or cooking small meals.
- Wattage: The wattage of a microwave affects its cooking power and efficiency. Generally, a higher wattage (800-1200 watts is common for small microwaves) means faster cooking times and better performance, especially for cooking or defrosting food evenly.
- Features and Functions: Look for features such as pre-programmed settings, defrost options, and sensor cooking, which can enhance usability. Additional functions like a turntable for even cooking, digital controls, and easy-clean interiors can significantly improve the cooking experience.
- Design and Aesthetics: The style and color of the microwave should complement your kitchen décor. Compact models come in various finishes, such as stainless steel, black, or white, allowing you to select one that best fits your personal taste and kitchen design.
- Price and Warranty: Determine your budget before shopping, as small microwaves can range widely in price based on brand and features. Additionally, check the warranty offered by the manufacturer, as a longer warranty can provide peace of mind regarding the appliance’s durability.
What Are Common Uses for a Small Size Microwave at Home?
The best small size microwave is versatile and can be used for various purposes in a home setting.
- Reheating Leftovers: Small microwaves are perfect for quickly reheating last night’s dinner or any leftovers. Their compact size allows them to fit conveniently in kitchens with limited counter space, making it easy to warm up meals in a matter of minutes.
- Cooking Simple Meals: These microwaves can be used to prepare simple meals such as scrambled eggs or instant noodles. With pre-set cooking functions, they simplify the meal preparation process, making them ideal for busy individuals or college students.
- Popcorn Making: Many small microwaves come with a popcorn button or can accommodate microwaveable popcorn bags. This feature allows users to enjoy a quick snack in just a few minutes, perfect for movie nights or casual gatherings.
- Defrosting Frozen Foods: A small microwave is excellent for defrosting frozen meats and other food items. The defrost setting can efficiently thaw food without cooking it, providing a convenient way to prepare meals without the need for planning ahead.
- Heating Beverages: Rather than using a kettle or stovetop, a small microwave can quickly heat water or beverages like coffee and tea. This functionality is especially useful for those who want a hot drink without taking up additional space in the kitchen.
- Melting Ingredients: Small microwaves are useful for melting butter, chocolate, or cheese for recipes. This method is often quicker than using a double boiler and allows for precise control over the melting process, ensuring ingredients retain their desired consistency.