Best Microwaves for Small Kitchens 2025 — Top Picks

Short on counter space but still want quick, reliable cooking? Small kitchens present a real challenge: you need a microwave that’s compact without sacrificing power, features, or style. Picking the right model can save space, speed up meal prep, and even improve your small-kitchen workflow.

That’s why this guide focuses on practical value—space-saving dimensions, intuitive controls, energy efficiency, and dependable performance. We narrowed the field using hands-on research, thousands of Amazon reviews, and expert analysis to find options that match different budgets and needs. Whether you’re in a studio apartment, renovating a tiny galley kitchen, or outfitting an RV, these picks make everyday cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Below you’ll find our selection of the best microwaves for small kitchens, each chosen for size, features, and real-world reliability to help you make a confident purchase. Read on to find the ideal compact microwave for your space.

TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven Review: Advanced Cooking Made Simple

If you’re in the market for a reliable, feature-packed microwave that blends style with smart technology, the TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) countertop microwave is definitely worth considering. Offering inverter technology, smart sensor menus, and a sleek black stainless steel finish, this microwave promises efficient cooking with user-friendly controls. Let’s dive deeper into why this model stands out and whether it’s the right fit for your kitchen.

Key Features

• Inverter Technology: Unlike traditional microwaves that cycle power on and off, this model uses inverter technology for smooth, even heating and faster cooking times.
• Smart Sensor Auto Menus: Six pre-programmed sensor options intelligently adjust power and time for foods like pizza, vegetables, and potatoes, ensuring optimal texture and taste.
• High Power Output: With 1250 watts of power (input 1350 watts), it handles everything from quick reheats to full meals efficiently.
• Spacious Interior: A roomy 1.6 cubic feet cavity featuring a 13.6-inch removable glass turntable accommodates larger dishes with ease.
• Child Safety Lock: Two-step child lock prevents accidental use, ideal for families with young children.
• User Convenience: Features like mute function, quick start buttons (1-3 minutes), bright LCD display, kitchen timer, and memory function add to the ease of use.
• Energy Efficient Eco Mode: Helps reduce power consumption when the microwave is idle.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
• Even cooking thanks to inverter technology
• User-friendly control panel with clear LCD display
• Spacious for a countertop microwave, fits large dishes
• Smart sensor menus simplify cooking various foods
• Child lock adds an important safety layer
• Quiet operation with option to mute beeps
• Cons:
• One-year warranty might feel limited for some users
• Protective film on keypad needs removal before first use
• Exterior dimensions require consideration if kitchen space is tight

Performance & User Experience

In everyday use, the Toshiba ML-EM45PIT(BS) impresses with consistent heating and quick defrosting. The inverter technology truly makes a difference, eliminating cold spots common in many microwaves. Its smart sensor menus take the guesswork out of setting cooking times and power levels, which is ideal for busy households. The control panel is intuitive, while the bright LCD display and easy-grip handle enhance overall usability. Users appreciate the flexibility offered by 10 power levels and express cook buttons for rapid meal prep.

Comparison

Compared to the Panasonic NN-SN966S, another popular inverter microwave, the Toshiba offers a slightly larger interior and a more modern black stainless steel finish. While Panasonic’s model is known for durability and advanced presets, Toshiba’s smart sensor technology and eco mode provide an excellent balance of innovation and energy efficiency, often at a more affordable price point.

Who Is This Product For?

This microwave is perfect for families, busy professionals, or anyone who values convenience and technology in their kitchen appliances. Its safety features make it a safe choice for households with kids, while its spacious interior and powerful inverter system appeal to cooking enthusiasts looking for even heating and smart functionality.

Final Verdict

The TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) countertop microwave oven combines style, power, and smart technology into one reliable package. Its inverter technology ensures even cooking, while sensor menus and other thoughtful features simplify meal preparation. Though the warranty period is modest, the overall build quality and user experience make it a worthwhile investment for a wide range of users. If you want a microwave that looks great on your countertop and performs consistently well, this Toshiba model is definitely worth a closer look.

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

If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient microwave that fits perfectly in smaller kitchens or dorm rooms, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is definitely worth considering. This compact yet powerful 0.7 cubic foot digital microwave combines user-friendly technology with a sleek stainless steel design, making everyday cooking and reheating fast and hassle-free.

Key Features

• 700 Watts of Power with 10 Power Levels: Offers versatile cooking options suitable for a variety of foods, from defrosting to fully cooking meals.
• Pre-Programmed Buttons: Convenient one-touch settings for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and dinner plates simplify meal prep.
• Child Safety Lock: Provides peace of mind for families with children by preventing accidental use.
• Large LED Digital Display: Easy-to-read panel shows clock, timer, and cooking time countdown, enhancing usability.
• Push-Button Door Release: Makes accessing the interior quick and effortless.
• Removable 10” Glass Turntable: Ensures even cooking and easy cleaning.
• Defrost Options: Time Defrost and Weight Defrost functions help thaw frozen foods precisely.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Compact size ideal for small spaces like apartments and offices.
  • User-friendly digital control panel with multiple presets.
  • Child safety lock adds extra security.
  • Stainless steel finish that looks modern and cleans easily.
  • Energy-efficient 700W power with adjustable levels.
• Cons:
  • Interior space may be small for large dishes or bulky containers.
  • Basic features—lacks sensor cooking found in some higher-end models.
  • Limited warranty of one year.

Performance & User Experience

In daily use, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 performs reliably and efficiently. The 700-watt power setting is perfect for reheating leftovers, popping popcorn, or quickly cooking simple meals. The pre-programmed buttons eliminate guesswork, making it easy for anyone to operate without fuss. The push-button door release is responsive and convenient, while the child safety lock is a welcome feature for households with kids. The LED display is bright and intuitive, clearly showing time and power settings. While the interior size limits cooking very large items, its turntable ensures even heating for most standard plates and bowls.

Comparison

Compared to similar models like the Panasonic NN-SB458S, which offers inverter technology and slightly higher wattage, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 stands out for its simplicity and compact design at a more affordable price. While it lacks some advanced sensor features, this microwave delivers consistent results that satisfy everyday cooking needs without overwhelming users with complexity.

Who Is This Product For?

• Students or renters needing a space-saving appliance.
• Small households or offices requiring quick reheating options.
• Parents seeking a microwave with added child safety features.
• Anyone who appreciates straightforward controls and preset cooking modes.

Final Verdict

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven offers an excellent balance of power, ease of use, and compact size. It’s an ideal choice for those with limited kitchen space who still want a dependable microwave with useful preset functions and safety features. While it isn’t packed with advanced tech, its performance and practical design make it a smart buy for everyday cooking tasks.

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COMFEE CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave Review: Stylish, Compact & Packed with Features

Looking for a dependable microwave that combines retro style with modern functionality? The COMFEE CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave is a fantastic choice, especially for those with limited kitchen space. Its compact design, safety features, and versatile cooking options make it a standout for apartments, dorms, or office kitchens. Let’s dive into what makes this 700W microwave oven worth considering.

Key Features

• Compact 0.7 Cubic Foot Capacity: Perfect for small spaces without compromising on cooking versatility.
• Powerful 700 Watts with 11 Power Levels: Offers precise control for various cooking needs, from reheating to defrosting.
• Fast Multi-Stage Cooking & Turntable Reset: Enables programming of multiple cooking phases and auto turntable resets for even results.
• Child Safety Lock: Two-step locking system designed to keep curious little ones safe and prevent accidental use.
• Easy Auto-Cook Functions: One-touch presets for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and reheating.
• Defrost Options: Defrost by weight or by time to ensure optimal thawing.
• Bright Digital Display & Kitchen Timer: Clear, easy-to-read controls with an energy-saving ECO mode.
• 10-Inch Glass Turntable & Interior Light: Ensures food cooks evenly and you can monitor progress effortlessly.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Compact footprint ideal for small kitchens and limited counter space.
• Multiple power levels allow for versatile cooking options.
• Child lock feature enhances safety for families with kids.
• Auto-cook presets simplify meal prep with one-touch convenience.
• Energy-saving ECO mode reduces unnecessary power usage.

Cons:

• 700 watts may be less powerful compared to larger microwaves (typically 900-1000W).
• Limited capacity might not suit larger dishes or big families.
• No convection or grilling function for more advanced cooking options.

Performance & User Experience

In everyday use, the COMFEE retro microwave delivers consistent and speedy cooking. The 11 power levels provide flexibility, whether you’re simply reheating leftovers or defrosting frozen meals. Users appreciate the bright LED display and intuitive control panel that make setting cooking times and power levels straightforward. The child lock is a reassuring feature for households with young children, ensuring safety without hassle. Its compact size fits seamlessly in small kitchens without sacrificing essential functions.

Comparison

Compared to similarly sized microwaves like the Panasonic NN-SB458S, which offers slightly higher wattage (800W) but fewer preset cooking options, the COMFEE stands out with its retro aesthetic and broader range of one-touch auto-cook functions. While it lacks some premium features, it offers excellent value for those prioritizing safety, simplicity, and style in a small footprint.

Who Is This Product For?

This microwave is ideal for:

• Apartment dwellers and students needing space-saving appliances.
• Small families or individuals seeking easy, fast cooking options.
• Parents who want built-in child safety features.
• Anyone looking for a stylish, retro-inspired appliance with modern capabilities.

Final Verdict

The COMFEE CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave is a well-rounded kitchen companion for compact living spaces. It offers practical features like multi-stage cooking, child locks, and preset buttons that simplify daily use. While not the most powerful on the market, its balance of style, safety, and functionality make it a smart pick for small households or office use. If you want a reliable microwave that saves space without sacrificing key benefits, this model deserves your consideration.

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COMFEE’ Retro Small Microwave Oven Review: Compact Convenience Meets Classic Style

If you’re hunting for a microwave that blends vintage charm with modern functionality, the COMFEE’ Retro Small Microwave Oven is definitely worth considering. Perfectly sized for tight spaces like apartments, dorm rooms, or offices, this 0.7 cubic feet microwave packs a punch with 700 watts of power and an array of user-friendly features. Let’s dive into what makes this retro-style appliance a practical kitchen companion.

Key Features

• 9 Preset Menus: Convenient one-touch cooking options for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and dinner plates streamline meal prep.
• 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels: Offers precise control for defrosting or cooking various types of food efficiently.
• Position-Memory Turntable: Ensures even heating by remembering the turntable’s last position, avoiding re-centering delays.
• Eco Mode & Mute Function: Energy-saving mode reduces power consumption, while the mute option silences beep sounds—ideal for quiet environments.
• Bright LED Digital Display & Easy Controls: Large, clear screen paired with rounded push-buttons makes operation intuitive and hassle-free.
• Child Safety Lock & Interior Light: Ensures safety and convenience during use.
• Compact Dimensions: At 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”, it fits snugly on countertops without taking up much room.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Compact size ideal for small kitchens and limited spaces
  • Multiple preset menus simplify cooking popular foods
  • Memory turntable enhances heating consistency
  • Quiet operation with mute button
  • Energy-efficient eco mode
  • Child safety features add peace of mind
• Cons:
  • 700 watts may be less powerful than some larger microwaves
  • Limited interior space may not suit large dishes
  • Retro cream color might not match all kitchen décors

Performance & User Experience

The COMFEE’ microwave delivers solid performance for everyday tasks like reheating leftovers, cooking frozen meals, or popping popcorn. The 9 preset menus are thoughtfully designed to cover common cooking needs, taking the guesswork out of time and power settings. Users appreciate the smooth operation of the position-memory turntable, which helps food heat evenly without annoying pauses. The LED display is bright and easy to read, while the quiet mute function prevents disruption in shared or quiet spaces. Overall, it’s reliable and efficient, especially for users prioritizing space and simplicity.

Comparison

Compared to similar models like the Panasonic NN-SD372S, which offers slightly higher wattage (950W) and a larger 0.8 cu ft capacity, the COMFEE’ stands out with its unique retro styling and energy-saving features. While Panasonic’s model may be better for heavier cooking tasks, the COMFEE’ excels in compactness and ease of use, making it ideal for basic, everyday kitchen needs.

Who Is This Product For?

This microwave is perfect for anyone living with limited countertop space—think students in dorm rooms, small apartment dwellers, or office kitchens. It also suits those who value quick, fuss-free cooking with preset menus and a stylish retro look that adds personality to their kitchen.

Final Verdict

The COMFEE’ Retro Small Microwave Oven is a charming and practical choice for anyone needing a space-saving yet functional microwave. With its user-friendly presets, energy-saving modes, and safety features, it offers good value without overwhelming complexity. While it may not replace a full-sized microwave for heavy cooking, it excels in day-to-day convenience and style.

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COMFEE’ Retro Small Microwave Oven Review: Stylish and Compact for Every Kitchen

If you’re looking for a microwave that combines classic retro design with modern convenience, the COMFEE’ Retro Small Microwave Oven is definitely worth considering. Its compact size, user-friendly features, and charming green finish make it an excellent choice for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or office spaces. This review dives into what makes this 0.7 cu ft/700W microwave stand out and whether it fits your cooking needs.

Key Features of the COMFEE’ Retro Microwave

• Compact Design: Measuring just 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”, this microwave easily fits countertops in apartments, dorms, or offices without taking up much space.
• Nine Preset Cooking Menus: Simplify meal prep with one-touch buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen veggies, beverages, and dinner plates.
• 700 Watts Power with 10 Power Settings: Offers versatile cooking options, from defrosting to reheating and full cooking.
• Position-Memory Turntable: Ensures your food heats evenly by remembering the turntable’s position after opening the door.
• User-Friendly Controls: Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, push-button door release, and child safety lock enhance usability and safety.
• Additional Conveniences: Includes clock, kitchen timer, mute function for silent operation, interior light, and energy-saving eco mode.
• Stylish Retro Look: The green color and rounded buttons add a nostalgic touch while blending with modern kitchens.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Compact size perfect for tight spaces
• Multiple preset menus simplify cooking tasks
• Quiet operation with mute function
• Child safety lock provides peace of mind
• Position-memory turntable improves cooking consistency
• Stylish retro design adds character to your kitchen

Cons:

• 700 watts may be less powerful for some heavy-duty cooking needs
• Limited 0.7 cu ft capacity may not suit large families
• No convection or grill features compared to higher-end models

Performance & User Experience

Users consistently praise the COMFEE’ Retro Microwave for its ease of use and reliable performance. The quick access presets make reheating and cooking straightforward, especially for busy mornings or quick snacks. The position-memory turntable is a subtle yet useful feature that prevents uneven heating—something often missing in similarly priced models. Although the power is moderate at 700W, it handles everyday microwaving tasks efficiently without overheating or excessive noise. The mute function is great for quiet environments like offices or late-night kitchens. Overall, the intuitive controls and clear display offer a smooth experience to all users, even first-time microwave owners.

Comparison with Similar Products

Compared to the Panasonic NN-SD372S compact microwave, which offers 950 watts and slightly larger capacity, the COMFEE’ stands out for its retro design and unique position-memory turntable. While Panasonic delivers more power for faster cooking, COMFEE’ is better suited for those prioritizing style and space-saving features. The Hamilton Beach 0.7 cu ft model offers similar wattage but lacks the nine preset menus and the eco mode found here, giving COMFEE’ a slight edge in convenience and energy efficiency.

Who Is This Product For?

This microwave is perfect for:

• Students living in dorms or shared apartments
• Small households or singles needing a compact microwave
• Office kitchens requiring a quiet, efficient appliance
• Anyone eager to add a splash of retro style alongside practical functionality

Final Verdict

The COMFEE’ Retro Small Microwave Oven is a reliable and stylish choice for anyone with limited kitchen space who still wants solid performance and useful features. Its nine preset menus, position-memory turntable, and quiet operation make it highly practical, while the retro design adds personality to your countertop. Though its power and capacity are modest, it excels in everyday convenience and ease of use.

If you want a microwave that’s both functional and fun, this COMFEE’ model deserves a spot in your kitchen.

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COMFEE CMO-C20M1WB Countertop Microwave Oven Review: Compact Powerhouse for Everyday Cooking

If you’re on the hunt for a reliable, space-saving microwave that doesn’t skimp on features, the COMFEE CMO-C20M1WB countertop microwave deserves your attention. This 0.7 cubic-foot microwave packs 700 watts of power alongside smart safety and convenience functions, making it an excellent choice for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices. Let’s dive into why this model stands out in the crowded small microwave market.

Key Features

• Compact Size with Ample Capacity: The 0.7 cu.ft interior fits nicely in tight spaces, yet it can handle most everyday meals with its 12” x 11.9” x 8” cooking area.
• Multiple Power Levels & Auto-Cook Options: 11 adjustable power settings plus one-touch presets for popcorn, pizza, frozen veggies, beverages, and reheating streamline your cooking process.
• Two-Step Child Lock: Designed with safety in mind, the child lock prevents accidental use, adhering to modern safety standards.
• Speedy & Precise Defrosting: Offers defrost by weight or time, ensuring your frozen foods are thawed evenly and quickly.
• Bright Digital Display & Interior Light: The clear LED screen shows cooking time, clock, and timer; the turntable lights up the interior for easy monitoring.
• Energy Saving ECO Mode: You can turn off the LED display to conserve energy when the microwave is idle.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Compact footprint ideal for limited spaces
  • Wide range of power levels for versatile cooking
  • User-friendly digital controls and presets
  • Child safety lock ensures peace of mind
  • Energy-saving ECO mode reduces power consumption
• Cons:
  • 700 watts may be less powerful than larger microwaves (usually 900-1000W)
  • Relatively small internal size may limit cooking large dishes
  • No advanced smart features like app connectivity

Performance & User Experience

In everyday use, the COMFEE microwave performs impressively for its size. Heating leftovers, cooking frozen meals, and quick defrosting are handled with ease and reliability. The multiple power levels give flexibility – from gentle warming to full power cooking. The bright digital display is easy to read, and the one-touch express cook buttons simplify common tasks, making it perfect for quick meals or snacks. The turntable reset function ensures even cooking, and the child lock adds a needed layer of safety for families.

Comparison

Compared to other microwaves like the Toshiba EM925A5A-BS, which offers 900 watts and a slightly larger capacity, the COMFEE trades some power for a smaller footprint and safety features such as the two-step child lock. If space and safety are your priorities, the COMFEE is a strong contender, while those wanting more power might lean toward alternatives.

Who Is This Product For?

This microwave is ideal for individuals or families with limited kitchen space—such as apartment dwellers, college students, or office workers. It’s also great for anyone seeking a simple, safe, and straightforward microwave without extra bells and whistles.

Final Verdict

The COMFEE CMO-C20M1WB countertop microwave oven strikes a solid balance between compact design, safety features, and versatile cooking options. While it may not satisfy users needing high wattage or large cooking capacity, it excels as an affordable, practical appliance for everyday use in small spaces. Its easy-to-use interface and safety lock make it especially suitable for families with children or shared living environments.

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COMFEE’ Retro Small Microwave Oven Review: Stylish, Compact, and Convenient

If you’re searching for a microwave that combines nostalgic style with modern features, the COMFEE’ Retro Small Microwave Oven is a compelling choice. Perfectly sized for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices, this 0.7 cubic feet microwave packs practical functions into a charming red retro design. Let’s dive into what makes this compact appliance stand out and whether it’s the right fit for your cooking needs.

Key Features of the COMFEE’ Retro Microwave

• Compact Size: Measuring just 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”, it fits comfortably on countertops with limited space.
• 700 Watts Power with 10 Power Levels: Offers flexible cooking options for different types of food.
• 9 Preset Menus: Includes one-touch buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and more, simplifying meal prep.
• Position-Memory Turntable: Remembers the last position of the turntable for even heating and convenience.
• Additional Functions: Mute function, clock, kitchen timer, easy-to-read large LED display, child safety lock, and interior light enhance usability and safety.
• Eco Mode & Express Cooking: Energy-saving eco mode and a handy 30-second express cooking button for quick tasks.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Attractive retro design adds a vintage vibe to any kitchen space.
• Compact footprint ideal for small apartments, offices, or dorms.
• User-friendly control panel with clear digital display and push-button door release.
• Child safety lock provides peace of mind for families.
• Multiple preset menus make cooking common foods quick and hassle-free.

Cons:

• 700 watts may be slightly underpowered for larger meals compared to higher wattage microwaves.
• Limited interior capacity may not accommodate very large dishes.
• No convection or grilling function for more complex cooking tasks.

Performance & User Experience

In everyday use, this microwave performs reliably with consistent heating thanks to the position-memory turntable. The presets simplify cooking, especially for those who prefer convenience without fiddling with manual settings. The mute function is a thoughtful addition, ideal for quiet environments like offices or late-night use. While it doesn’t boast advanced features found in larger models, its straightforward operation and easy-to-clean design make it a practical choice for simple reheating, defrosting, and light cooking.

Comparison with Similar Products

Compared to similarly sized models like the Panasonic NN-SB458S, the COMFEE’ stands out for its retro aesthetic and child lock feature. While Panasonic offers slightly higher wattage (800W) and slightly larger capacity, COMFEE’ wins on style and preset variety. If you’re looking for a compact but visually appealing microwave with reliable basic functions, COMFEE’ is a strong contender.

Who Is This Product For?

This microwave is ideal for:

• Students in dorm rooms needing a space-saving appliance.
• Anyone with limited countertop space seeking a functional yet stylish microwave.
• Office kitchens requiring a quiet, easy-to-use reheating appliance.
• Small apartment dwellers who want a nostalgic touch without compromising on modern convenience.

Final Verdict

The COMFEE’ Retro Small Microwave Oven perfectly balances retro charm with practical features. Its compact size, multitude of preset menus, and safety functions make it an excellent kitchen companion for small-space living. While it may lack some high-end functions, its reliable performance and user-friendly design make it worth considering if you prioritize style, simplicity, and space-efficiency.

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