Best Compact Microwaves 2025: Top Picks & Reviews

Cramped counters and a bulky microwave shouldn’t keep you from quick, reliable meals—especially if you live in an apartment, dorm, or tiny home. Finding the right compact model matters: you want something that heats evenly, saves space, and still packs the power and features you actually use. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best compact microwaves for 2025—to help you get great performance without sacrificing precious kitchen real estate.

This list reflects hands-on research, thousands of Amazon reviews, and expert analysis to highlight models that deliver consistent cooking, useful presets, easy cleaning, and value for the money. Whether you need a microwave for reheating lunches, defrosting ingredients, or making single-serving meals, these picks prioritize real-world benefits like speed, footprint, and reliability.

Keep reading to see our top recommendations and find the compact microwave that fits your space, budget, and daily routine.

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. Review: Compact Power Meets Convenience

If you’re looking for a reliable, compact microwave that packs a punch without taking up too much counter space, the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is worth considering. With its sleek black design and user-friendly features, this 700-watt microwave offers convenience, safety, and efficient cooking for busy kitchens or small spaces.

Key Features

• Powerful and Versatile: Despite its compact size, this microwave delivers 700 watts with 10 adjustable power levels, letting you cook anything from gentle defrosts to full-power meals.
• Six One-Touch Cooking Presets: Quickly prepare popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers thanks to intuitive presets, perfect for everyday meals and snacks.
• Memory Function: Save your favorite cooking settings for easy access, speeding up your meal prep routine.
• Child Safety Lock & Mute Button: Enhance kitchen safety with a built-in handle lock and the option to mute beeps—ideal for quiet households or families with kids.
• Eco Mode: Save energy by turning off the display when the microwave isn’t in use, supporting environmentally conscious kitchens.
• Digital Controls with +30 Seconds Button: Simple operation with customizable time and power levels, plus a handy quick-add time feature.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Compact footprint fits neatly on any countertop
  • User-friendly presets and memory function
  • Child safety lock adds peace of mind
  • Energy-saving Eco Mode reduces power consumption
  • Quiet operation with mute option
• Cons:
  • Smaller 0.7 cu. ft. capacity may not suit larger families
  • No convection or grill functions

Performance & User Experience

In daily use, this Chefman microwave impresses with fast, even cooking. The 700 watts offer enough heat to reheat leftovers, steam vegetables, and cook simple meals quickly. The digital controls are intuitive, allowing easy customization and quick adjustments using the +30 seconds button. Parents will appreciate the child safety lock, preventing accidental openings, and the mute feature is a thoughtful addition for quiet environments such as offices or late-night use.

Comparison

Compared to the Panasonic NN-SD372S compact microwave, which offers similar wattage and presets, the Chefman stands out with its memory function and eco mode for power saving. While the Panasonic has a slightly larger capacity (0.8 cu. ft.), the Chefman’s extra safety features and mute option give it an edge for families and noise-conscious users.

Who Is This Product For?

This microwave is ideal for apartment dwellers, college students, small families, or anyone needing a dependable, space-saving appliance. Its safety features and quiet operation also make it a strong contender for households with children or shared living spaces where noise control is important.

Final Verdict

The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. combines practical size, powerful cooking options, and thoughtful safety features into one budget-friendly package. It’s perfect for those prioritizing quick, hassle-free cooking without sacrificing countertop space or energy efficiency. While it may not fit bigger meal prep needs, it excels as a reliable everyday microwave with smart extras you don’t always find in compact models.

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BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven Review: Compact Power Meets Convenience

If you’re in the market for a reliable, space-saving microwave that delivers consistent results without breaking the bank, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is definitely worth considering. With its sleek stainless steel finish, user-friendly features, and practical power settings, this 0.7 cubic foot microwave packs a punch in a compact design—ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or office spaces.

Key Features of the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7

• 700 Watts of Cooking Power: Offers 10 power levels to customize cooking intensity for various meals.
• Pre-Programmed Buttons: Easily prepare popular foods like popcorn, potatoes, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and dinner plates with one-touch presets.
• Digital LED Display: Large, clear display shows cooking time, countdown timer, and includes a clock function.
• Child Safety Lock: Provides peace of mind for families with children to prevent accidental use.
• Removable 10” Glass Turntable: Ensures even cooking and simple cleaning.
• Push-Button Door Release: Makes opening the microwave quick and effortless.
• Defrost Options: Choose between Time Defrost or Weight Defrost to thaw frozen foods efficiently.
• Compact Dimensions: At just 17.3” W x 13.0” D x 10.2” H, it fits comfortably on countertops with limited space.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Intuitive control panel with easy-to-read digital display
• Convenient preset buttons for common foods save time and effort
• Child safety lock enhances security
• Compact design fits well in small spaces
• Push-button door release simplifies access
• Affordable price point for everyday use

Cons:

• 700 watts might be less powerful compared to larger microwaves
• Limited interior space may not accommodate larger dishes
• No convection or grilling features for advanced cooking

Performance & User Experience

In real-world use, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 performs admirably for everyday cooking tasks. The 700-watt power level is sufficient to heat leftovers, beverages, and snacks quickly, while the 10 power settings offer flexibility for different cooking needs. The pre-programmed buttons take the guesswork out of heating common foods, making meal prep faster and more convenient.

Users appreciate the bright LED display and straightforward control layout, which makes operating the microwave intuitive—even for those who aren’t tech-savvy. The child safety lock is a thoughtful addition, especially for families. The removable turntable cleans easily, and the push-button door adds a nice touch of convenience.

Comparison with Similar Models

Compared to similar compact microwaves, such as the Toshiba EM925A5A-BS, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 offers comparable features but at a slightly lower wattage. While Toshiba’s model boasts 900 watts, the Black+Decker model compensates with versatile presets and a more budget-friendly price point. If you prioritize higher power for faster cooking, Toshiba may edge out; however, for basic, reliable performance in smaller spaces, the BLACK+DECKER is a solid pick.

Who Is This Product For?

This microwave is perfect for:

• Students living in dorms or apartments with limited kitchen space
• Small households or singles needing a compact reheating option
• Office kitchens requiring a reliable microwave for quick meals
• Anyone seeking an easy-to-use appliance with safety features for children

Final Verdict

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is an excellent choice if you want a microwaving solution that is straightforward, safe, and efficient without taking up too much counter space. While it lacks some advanced features found in more expensive models, its pre-programmed cooking options, child safety lock, and user-friendly interface make it ideal for everyday use. Whether warming a quick snack or defrosting frozen meals, this microwave will consistently deliver satisfying results for small kitchens and busy lifestyles.

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COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven Review: Compact, Convenient, and Energy-Efficient

If you’re in search of a reliable, compact microwave that combines ease of use with smart features, the COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB countertop microwave is definitely worth considering. Designed for small spaces like apartments, dorm rooms, or offices, this 0.7 cubic foot microwave offers solid performance, user-friendly controls, and energy-saving options that make everyday cooking a breeze.

Key Features That Stand Out

– Compact Size & Power: With a 0.7 cu. ft. interior and 700 watts of cooking power, this microwave fits perfectly in limited spaces without sacrificing performance.
– Easy One-Touch Buttons: Auto-cook presets for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and reheating simplify meal prep.
– Silent Mode & Mute Function: Turn off beeps when needed — perfect for quiet environments like offices or late-night use.
– Energy Saving ECO Mode: Reduces standby power consumption by up to 50% by switching off the LED display, helping save on electricity bills.
– Defrost Flexibility: Two defrost options allow you to thaw food by weight or time, ensuring even results.
– Child Safety Lock: Adds an extra layer of security, especially important for homes with kids.
– Bright Digital Display: Easy-to-read LED with clock and kitchen timer functions keeps you informed throughout cooking.
– Removable 10-inch Glass Turntable: Makes cleaning simple and ensures even heating.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Compact footprint ideal for small kitchens and tight spaces
• User-friendly one-touch controls with multiple presets
• Quiet operation thanks to the mute button
• Energy-efficient ECO mode helps reduce power consumption
• Child safety lock enhances security
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• Limited capacity may not suit large families
• 700 watts is moderate power; cooking might take slightly longer compared to higher wattage models
• No convection or grill features for advanced cooking

Performance & User Experience

In daily use, the COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB impresses with straightforward operation and consistent results. The one-touch presets are accurate and handle common foods efficiently, making it perfect for quick meals and reheating. The mute function is a welcome feature for noise-sensitive environments, while the energy-saving ECO mode adds a thoughtful touch for those mindful of power usage. Cleanup is hassle-free thanks to the removable glass turntable and simple interior design. The only minor drawback is its smaller size and moderate wattage, which means larger or denser dishes may take more time to cook evenly.

Comparison with Similar Microwaves

Compared to popular models like the Panasonic NN-SN651B, which offers higher wattage and inverter technology for faster, even cooking, the COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB focuses more on compactness and energy efficiency. While it doesn’t have advanced cooking features, its affordable price and practical functions make it a strong contender for those prioritizing space and basic convenience over power or multi-functionality.

Who Is This Product For?

This microwave is an excellent match for:
– Students living in dorms or small apartments
– Office kitchens needing quiet, efficient reheating options
– Individuals or couples with modest cooking needs
– Anyone looking for a budget-friendly, energy-efficient countertop microwave

Final Verdict

The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB countertop microwave delivers a perfect balance of compact design, easy operation, and energy-saving features. It’s an ideal choice if you need a no-fuss microwave for smaller spaces without compromising essential cooking functions. Though it lacks some bells and whistles found in higher-end models, its practicality, safety features, and quiet operation make it a smart buy for everyday use.

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Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven Review

If you’re on the lookout for a compact, efficient, and quiet microwave that fits perfectly in limited kitchen spaces, the Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Microwave is definitely worth considering. Known for its sleek silver design and user-friendly features, this countertop microwave promises convenience without compromising performance. Let’s dive into what makes this model stand out in today’s busy kitchens.

Key Features

• Compact 25L Capacity: Despite its small footprint, it offers ample space to cook, reheat, or defrost a variety of meals, making it ideal for apartments or kitchens with limited counter space.
• Quiet Soft Close Door: Engineered to reduce noise, the door closes 80% quieter than traditional microwaves, and the unit operates at 50% less noise—perfect for noise-sensitive environments.
• One-Touch Cooking Shortcuts: Convenient auto buttons for popular functions like Reheat, Defrost, Popcorn, and Beverage make meal prep fast and hassle-free.
• Food Menu Options: Specialized presets to reheat pizza, defrost veggies, or cook potatoes simplify cooking tasks.
• Child Lock Safety Feature: A quick-touch Child Lock button ensures safe use around children, preventing accidental operation.
• Versatile Power Settings: 900 Watts of power with adjustable levels to gently defrost or evenly reheat without drying food.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Compact design ideal for small kitchens and dorm rooms
  • Soft close door significantly reduces noise disturbances
  • Intuitive one-touch buttons expedite meal preparation
  • Child lock adds an extra layer of safety
  • Quiet operation enhances user comfort
  • Attractive silver finish complements modern décor
• Cons:
  • 25L capacity might be limiting for larger families
  • Lacks advanced smart features like sensor cooking
  • One-year limited warranty may feel short compared to competitors

Performance & User Experience

The Breville Compact Wave Microwave performs admirably in everyday cooking tasks. Its 900-watt power cooks and reheats meals evenly without hotspots, thanks in part to smart power adjustments. Users report appreciating the quiet operation, especially in open-plan homes or late-night use. The soft close door is a standout feature, preventing the usual loud slams associated with microwaves. The preset menus make it simple for anyone—from students to busy professionals—to quickly prepare snacks or meals without fiddling with complicated settings.

Comparison with Similar Products

Compared to other compact microwaves like the Panasonic NN-SN65KB, the Breville BMO650SIL excels in noise reduction and user-friendly controls. While Panasonic offers slightly higher wattage at 1200W, it lacks the soft close door and quieter operation that Breville prioritizes. For buyers valuing a peaceful kitchen environment and ease of use, the Breville model takes the lead.

Who Is This Product For?

This microwave is perfect for anyone with limited kitchen space who still wants reliable performance. Ideal for singles, couples, students, and small families, it suits people who value quiet appliances and straightforward controls. It also appeals to households concerned about safety, thanks to its child lock feature.

Final Verdict

The Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Microwave offers a thoughtful blend of compact design, quiet operation, and easy-to-use features. While it may not suit very large families or those seeking smart technology, it delivers excellent value for everyday cooking needs in small spaces. Its soft close door and reduced noise levels give it a unique edge, making it a worthwhile addition to any modern kitchen.

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TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven Review: Compact, Safe & Feature-Packed

If you’re looking for a reliable microwave that fits perfectly in small spaces without compromising on features, the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) deserves your attention. Designed with apartment living in mind, this compact microwave offers powerful 900W cooking performance, smart safety features, and user-friendly presets, making it an excellent kitchen companion for busy households or singles.

Key Features

• 900 Watts Cooking Power: Efficiently cooks and reheats food quickly without overheating.
• Six Preset Auto Menus: Easily prepare popular dishes like popcorn, pizza, and potatoes with one touch.
• Two-Step Child Lock: Ensures safety by preventing accidental usage by children, essential for families.
• 11 Power Levels: Offers precise control for various cooking needs, from gentle defrosting to full power heating.
• Mute Function: Silences beeps for a quieter kitchen environment—perfect if you prefer less noise.
• Easy Defrost & One-Touch Start: Quickly thaw frozen foods either by weight or time, plus convenient quick-start buttons for 1 to 6 minutes.
• Spacious Interior with LED Lighting: 0.9 cubic feet capacity and a 10.6-inch removable glass turntable make it easy to cook multiple dish sizes.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Compact size ideal for small kitchens or apartments
  • Child lock adds peace of mind for families with kids
  • Quiet operation with mute option
  • Intuitive preset menus simplify cooking tasks
  • Removable turntable for easy cleaning
• Cons:
  • Input power (1400W) slightly higher than some microwaves, which may impact energy usage
  • Limited to 0.9 cu ft capacity, so larger dishes won’t fit
  • No convection or grill function

Performance & User Experience

In everyday use, the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) impresses with its reliable heating and consistent defrosting capabilities. The six preset menus simplify cooking popular items, especially for users who want to avoid guesswork. Adjusting power levels is straightforward, allowing you to tailor cooking intensity to delicate foods or beverages. The LED interior light brightens the cavity, helping you monitor your food without interrupting the process.

The child lock feature is easy to engage and disengage, adding an important layer of safety if you have children around. The mute function is a welcome addition for anyone sensitive to the usual microwave beeps, providing a quieter kitchen experience. Overall, it balances compactness, safety, and functionality well for everyday kitchen tasks.

Comparison with Similar Products

Compared to other compact microwaves like the Panasonic NN-SD372S, the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) offers a slightly smaller interior but includes a versatile mute function and an intuitive child lock. While Panasonic features inverter technology for more even cooking, Toshiba’s multiple power levels and preset menus provide easy convenience for quick meals. If space-saving and safety are your priorities along with basic performance, Toshiba stands out.

Who Is This Product For?

• Apartment dwellers with limited kitchen space
• Families who need child safety features
• Individuals seeking a quiet microwave with customizable cooking options
• Anyone wanting a simple, no-fuss microwave for reheating, defrosting, and quick cooking

Final Verdict

The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven is a thoughtfully designed appliance that combines compact size with convenient features. Its safety-oriented child lock, quiet mute mode, and multiple power settings make it an excellent choice for small kitchens without sacrificing essential microwave functions. While it doesn’t have advanced cooking modes, its reliable performance and user-friendly interface make it a dependable addition to any home.

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COMFEE CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave Review: A Stylish and Compact Kitchen Companion

If you’re searching for a microwave that blends retro charm with modern convenience, the COMFEE CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave is worth a closer look. Designed to fit perfectly in smaller kitchens without compromising functionality, this 700-watt microwave offers a variety of smart features tailored for busy households, dorms, or office spaces.

Key Features

• Two-step Child Lock: Ensures safety by preventing accidental operation, ideal for homes with kids.
• 11 Power Levels: Offers precise cooking control — from gentle defrosting to full-power reheating.
• Fast Multi-stage Cooking: Allows programming multiple cooking stages for seamless meal preparation.
• One-Touch Express Cooking: Quick access to common functions like popcorn, pizza, beverage, and frozen vegetable at the push of a button.
• Weight/Time Defrost: Flexible defrosting options to suit different food types and quantities.
• Compact Size: With 0.7 cubic feet capacity and 12” x 11.9” x 8” internal dimensions, it easily fits in tight spaces.
• Bright Digital Display & Timer: Clear LED interface with clock, kitchen timer, and ECO mode to save energy.
• Turntable Reset Function: Ensures even cooking by repositioning the 10-inch glass turntable during use.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Compact footprint ideal for small kitchens and limited counter space.
  • Child safety lock adds peace of mind for families.
  • Versatile cooking settings accommodate various foods effortlessly.
  • Easy-to-read digital controls with quick-start buttons.
  • Energy-saving ECO mode reduces power consumption when not cooking.
• Cons:
  • 700W power may be slower than higher wattage models for some tasks.
  • Limited interior space might not suit large dishes or containers.

Performance & User Experience

In everyday use, the COMFEE Retro Microwave excels at quick reheating and basic cooking tasks. Its 11 power levels give users precise control, while the multi-stage cooking function lets you automate complex recipes without monitoring. Users appreciate the bright digital display that makes operation intuitive, and the child lock feature is a definite plus for families. Though it’s not the fastest microwave in its class due to its 700W motor, it compensates with reliable performance and thoughtful safety features.

Comparison with Similar Models

Compared to similar compact microwaves like the Panasonic NN-SD372S, which offers 950W power, the COMFEE provides slightly less heating speed but stands out with its retro design and enhanced child safety lock. If kitchen aesthetics and safety are priorities alongside functionality, COMFEE’s model shines. However, for users needing quicker cooking times or larger capacity, higher wattage models might be preferable.

Who Is This Product For?

• Apartment dwellers and college students with limited kitchen space.
• Families with small children looking for extra safety features.
• Office kitchens needing a simple, reliable microwave for daily use.
• Anyone who prefers stylish appliances that combine vintage looks with modern tech.

Final Verdict

The COMFEE CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave is a well-rounded, budget-friendly appliance that balances style, safety, and functionality. While its 700W power might not satisfy those requiring rapid cooking, its intuitive controls, ample preset options, and childproof design make it an excellent choice for small households and safe kitchens. If you want a compact microwave that fits snugly into tight spaces without sacrificing essential features, this model deserves serious consideration.

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COMFEE’ Retro Small Microwave Oven Review: Compact, Stylish & Functional

If you’re looking for a microwave that combines nostalgic retro design with modern convenience, the COMFEE’ Retro Small Microwave Oven is definitely worth considering. Its compact size, numerous preset menus, and practical features make it an ideal choice for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or office spaces where space is at a premium but performance can’t be compromised.

Key Features

• Retro Style Meets Modern Functionality: Designed with a charming cream finish and rounded edges, it adds a vintage vibe while packing contemporary features.
• Compact Size (0.7 cu ft) & Powerful: Despite its small footprint (17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”), it delivers 700 watts with 10 adjustable power levels for versatile cooking.
• 9 Preset Auto Menus: Includes popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and dinner plate options for quick, hassle-free cooking.
• Position-Memory Turntable: Ensures even cooking by remembering the last position of the 10-inch glass turntable.
• User-Friendly Controls: Large LED display, easy-to-read digital panel, push-button door release, mute function, and child safety lock.
• Additional Functions: Clock, kitchen timer, express 30-second cooking, and eco energy-saving mode.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Space-saving design perfect for small areas
  • Multiple preset menus simplify meal prep
  • Energy-efficient eco mode reduces power consumption
  • Quiet operation thanks to mute function
  • Child safety lock adds extra security
• Cons:
  • 700 watts may be less powerful than larger microwaves
  • Small interior limits large dish cooking
  • No convection or grill features

Performance & User Experience

The COMFEE’ Retro Microwave performs admirably given its size and wattage. Its 9 preset menus take the guesswork out of reheating or cooking common foods, making it extremely user-friendly for busy households or individuals. The position-memory turntable is a thoughtful addition, ensuring food heats evenly without constant manual adjustments. The mute function is particularly appreciated in quiet environments like offices or dorms. Users also praise the clear LED display and intuitive control panel, which reduce operational confusion.

Comparison

Compared to the Panasonic NN-SB458S, a similarly sized microwave with slightly higher wattage (900W), the COMFEE’ offers more preset menus and a charming retro design but trades off some power. While Panasonic focuses on fast cooking speeds, COMFEE’ emphasizes style and ease of use, making it better suited for those prioritizing aesthetics and versatility over raw power.

Who Is This Product For?

• Apartment dwellers with limited kitchen counter space
• Students in dormitories needing a reliable microwave
• Office workers wanting a quiet, efficient reheating solution
• Anyone who appreciates retro aesthetics paired with modern features
• Small families or individuals with light to moderate microwave needs

Final Verdict

The COMFEE’ Retro Small Microwave Oven is a fantastic option if you want a compact, stylish appliance that does more than just basic reheating. It’s perfect for compact living spaces where every inch counts and combines user-friendly features with a unique vintage look. While it’s not designed for heavy-duty cooking, its 700W power with multiple presets makes it a dependable kitchen companion. The added safety features and quiet operation further boost its appeal.

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