Best Small Microwaves 2025 – Top Compact Picks

Cramped counters, tiny apartments, or a busy office kitchen — finding a microwave that’s compact without sacrificing power can feel impossible. The right small microwave saves space, heats evenly, and makes quick meals and leftovers a breeze, so you can spend less time fussing and more time enjoying your food. That’s why this guide to the best small microwaves is so valuable: we focused on real-life benefits like footprint, wattage, intuitive controls, and reliability so you get a practical appliance that fits your lifestyle.

Our picks are based on research, Amazon reviews, and expert analysis, so you’re seeing options vetted for performance, durability, and value. Whether you want a no-fuss model for a dorm, a sleek unit for a studio apartment, or a powerful compact for a busy kitchen, this roundup covers the top choices. Read on to find the small microwave that best matches your needs and budget.

TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven Review: Compact, Safe, and Convenient for Everyday Use

If you’re living in an apartment or have limited kitchen space, finding a reliable microwave that fits both your countertop and lifestyle can be a challenge. The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven combines compact design with practical features to deliver convenience in a sleek black stainless steel package. In this review, we explore why this 0.9 cubic feet microwave could be the perfect addition to your kitchen.

Key Features That Make It Stand Out

• Compact Size: With external dimensions of 18.7 x 14.7 x 10.7 inches, it’s ideal for tight spaces without sacrificing cooking capacity inside (12.1 x 10.9 x 7.6 inches).
• 900W Power Output: Offers efficient heating and cooking speed, striking a balance between power and energy consumption.
• 6 Preset Auto Menus: Easy one-touch cooking options for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, and potatoes, simplifying meal prep.
• Two-Step Child Lock: A vital safety feature to prevent accidental use by children, providing peace of mind in family homes.
• Mute Function: Silence the end-of-cooking beeps for a quieter kitchen environment, perfect for shared living spaces.
• LED Lighting & Removable Turntable: Bright interior light lets you monitor progress, plus a 10.6-inch glass turntable for even cooking.
• Customizable Power Levels & Timer: Eleven power levels and an easy kitchen timer make it versatile for various cooking needs.
• Easy Defrost & One-Touch Start: Quickly defrost frozen food by weight or time, and start cooking instantly with preset time buttons.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Compact and stylish design fits small kitchens and apartments.
  • Child lock ensures safety around kids.
  • Quiet operation with mute function.
  • Multiple presets and customizable power levels for versatile cooking.
  • LED lighting brightens up the interior for easy monitoring.
• Cons:
  • Relatively small interior might not suit large families or batch cooking.
  • Some users may find the two-step child lock takes a bit to get used to.
  • No convection or grill features for advanced cooking.

Performance & User Experience

In daily use, the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) delivers consistent heating and quick cooking times thanks to its 900W output. The preset menus are accurate and save valuable time, especially when preparing snacks or reheating leftovers. The child lock is straightforward and adds an essential layer of security in homes with young children. Users appreciate the mute function, which eliminates annoying beeps—great for maintaining peace in shared or quiet environments.

The LED lighting inside the oven enhances visibility, and the removable 10.6-inch turntable cleans easily. While it lacks advanced cooking modes like grilling, its straightforward design and ease of use make it a dependable daily kitchen companion.

Comparison with Similar Microwaves

Compared to other small microwaves like the Panasonic NN-SN651B, which offers inverter technology and a slightly larger interior, the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) focuses on simplicity and essential safety features like the child lock. While it doesn’t have high-end tech, it excels in user-friendly controls and safety, making it a great choice for renters and families alike.

Who Is This Product For?

• Individuals or small families living in apartments or dorm rooms with limited kitchen space.
• Parents looking for a microwave with reliable child safety locks.
• Anyone who values quiet operation and simple, dependable cooking functions.
• Users who want a compact microwave with essential presets and power customization without extra bells and whistles.

Final Verdict

The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven is an excellent pick for those needing a compact, safe, and easy-to-use microwave. It performs well for everyday tasks, from reheating leftovers to quick snack preparation, while the child lock and mute function demonstrate thoughtful design elements tailored to modern households. Though it lacks some advanced features, its reliability, clear controls, and sleek black stainless steel finish make it a smart choice for smaller kitchens or apartments.

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Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. Review: Compact Powerhouse for Your Kitchen

If you’re hunting for a compact microwave that blends power, convenience, and smart features, the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. is definitely worth considering. This sleek black appliance offers 700 watts of cooking power, ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or office spaces where space and efficiency matter. Let’s dive into what makes this microwave stand out and whether it fits your cooking needs.

Key Features

• Six One-Touch Cooking Presets: Easily reheat popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, and leftovers with dedicated buttons, making quick meals fuss-free.
• 10 Power Levels: From gently melting butter to rapidly cooking meals at full power, choose the perfect heat setting for your dish.
• Digital Controls with Memory Function: Customize cooking times and power, and save frequent settings for one-touch use, helping speed up daily meal prep.
• Child Safety Lock & Lock Mode: Keep little ones safe by preventing accidental door openings or button presses.
• Mute Button & Eco Mode: Silence annoying beeps during quiet moments, and save energy by disabling the display when not in use.
• Compact and Stylish Design: Its sleek black finish complements modern kitchens without taking up much counter space.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Compact size fits easily on any countertop or small space
• Multiple presets simplify cooking common foods
• Ten adjustable power levels offer versatile cooking options
• Child safety features provide peace of mind
• Energy-saving Eco Mode and mute function enhance convenience
• Memory function saves your favorite cooking time/power settings

Cons:

• 700 watts may be less powerful compared to larger microwaves
• Limited interior space might not fit very large dishes
• Black color may show fingerprints more easily

Performance & User Experience

In everyday use, this microwave delivers consistently reliable heating for small to medium portions. The 10 power levels allow precise control, whether you’re defrosting delicate ingredients or cooking a quick meal. The presets are especially handy for those who want minimal fuss — just press a button, and the microwave adjusts automatically.

Users appreciate how the memory function streamlines repetitive cooking tasks, saving seconds every time. The child lock and mute button add practical safety and flexibility, especially in busy households or quiet environments. While the interior space is limited to 0.7 cubic feet, it’s perfect for single servings or reheating leftovers. Overall, the Chefman microwave balances compact design with effective performance.

Comparison

Compared to similar models like the Toshiba EM925A5A-BS, which offers 900 watts and a slightly larger capacity, the Chefman microwave is more compact but less powerful. If you have limited space and prefer simplicity over extra power, Chefman wins for its ease of use and thoughtful safety features. For higher wattage and larger dishes, Toshiba might be a better choice, but at the cost of increased footprint.

Who Is This Product For?

This microwave is ideal for:

• Students or renters with small kitchens or limited countertop space
• Office break rooms requiring simple, quick heating options
• Small families or individuals who cook light meals or reheat leftovers
• Parents looking for added safety features to protect children

Final Verdict

The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. is a compact, feature-rich microwave that combines convenience, safety, and efficiency in a stylish package. It’s perfect for anyone seeking a reliable appliance with thoughtful presets, multiple power levels, and user-friendly controls. While its wattage and size limit heavy-duty cooking, it excels for everyday quick meals and reheating tasks. If you want a no-fuss microwave that fits anywhere and keeps safety a priority, this model is a smart investment.

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TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Review: Smart Cooking Meets Convenience

If you’re searching for a reliable, feature-packed microwave that fits perfectly in compact kitchens or office spaces, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS might just be the answer. With its smart sensor technology, multiple power levels, and easy-to-use design, this 1.2 cubic feet microwave offers excellent value and performance. Let’s dive deeper into why this model is worth considering for your cooking routine.

Key Features

• Smart Sensor Technology: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power by detecting food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals without guesswork.
• 1000 Watts of Power: A powerful output allows for quick heating and efficient cooking.
• 12.4-Inch Removable Glass Turntable: Offers ample space for plates and bowls, easy to clean and maintain.
• 12 Auto Menus & 10 Power Levels: Includes preset options for common foods like pizza and vegetables, while also allowing custom power settings from low to high.
• Mute Function: Silence the buzzer when needed, ideal for quiet environments.
• ECO Mode & Easy Clean Interior: Designed for energy efficiency and hassle-free maintenance.
• Large Digital Display with Clock & Timer: Keeps you informed with countdown timers and current time display.
• One-Touch Start & Defrost Functions: Quickly start cooking with preset times or defrost by weight or time.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Smart sensor cooking reduces guesswork and prevents overcooking.
  • Spacious interior fits most dinner plates comfortably.
  • Multiple power levels provide versatile cooking options.
  • Quiet operation with mute feature for minimal noise disturbance.
  • Attractive black stainless steel finish complements modern kitchens.
• Cons:
  • The input power (1600W) is higher than output, which may impact energy consumption slightly.
  • Does not include convection or grilling capabilities found in some advanced models.
  • Preset menus are limited to six, fewer than some competitors.

Performance & User Experience

The Toshiba EM131A5C-BS delivers consistent results thanks to its smart humidity sensor that adapts cooking times precisely. Users report that reheating leftovers, cooking frozen meals, and defrosting are efficient and hassle-free. The microwave’s intuitive interface is beginner-friendly, making it easy to program favorite cooking presets. The door handle is sturdy and easy to grip, and the large display makes it simple to monitor progress at a glance. Whether you’re boiling water for tea or reheating a slice of pizza, this microwave performs smoothly with minimal noise.

Comparison

Compared to popular models like the Panasonic NN-SN686S, which offers inverter technology and slightly quieter operation, the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS stands out for its simplicity and user-friendly sensor cooking. While Panasonic offers convection options, Toshiba focuses on straightforward, reliable microwave cooking with smart sensors and energy-saving modes, making it an excellent choice for daily use without unnecessary bells and whistles.

Who Is This Product For?

This microwave is ideal for small households, apartment dwellers, students, and office environments where space, ease of use, and reliability matter most. If you want a hassle-free countertop microwave that cooks food evenly without constant monitoring, the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS is a practical pick.

Final Verdict

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS countertop microwave merges smart technology with simplicity, offering a balanced package of performance, convenience, and style. Its sensor-based cooking ensures your meals are heated perfectly every time, while the mute function and eco mode add thoughtful touches that enhance everyday usability. Although it lacks some advanced features like convection cooking, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a dependable, easy-to-use microwave at a reasonable price point.

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BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven Review: Compact Power in Stainless Steel

If you’re looking for a reliable, compact microwave that offers convenience without sacrificing performance, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is an excellent choice. This 0.7 cubic foot microwave combines sleek stainless steel design with user-friendly digital controls and multiple pre-programmed settings, making it ideal for everyday cooking and reheating needs.

Key Features

• 700 Watts of Power with 10 Power Levels: Offers versatile cooking options from gentle defrost to full power heating.
• Pre-Programmed Buttons: One-touch settings for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and dinner plates simplify meal prep.
• Digital LED Display & Timer: Easy-to-read display includes clock, countdown timer, and cooking time remaining.
• Child Safety Lock: Provides peace of mind, especially for families with kids.
• Removable 10” Glass Turntable: Ensures even cooking and easy cleaning.
• Push-Button Door Release: Convenient and hassle-free access to the interior.
• Defrost Options: Time Defrost and Weight Defrost modes for optimal thawing of meats and casseroles.
• Compact Dimensions: Measuring 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”, it fits comfortably on most kitchen counters or dorm rooms.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • User-friendly digital controls with convenient presets.
  • Child safety lock adds an extra layer of security.
  • Compact size ideal for small kitchens or offices.
  • Stainless steel finish complements modern kitchen aesthetics.
  • Multiple power settings give great cooking flexibility.
• Cons:
  • 700 watts may be less powerful compared to larger microwaves.
  • Limited interior space might not accommodate very large dishes.
  • One-year limited warranty could be extended for added assurance.

Performance & User Experience

In real-world use, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 performs admirably for a microwave of its size and wattage. The 10 power levels allow you to tailor cooking intensity precisely, from warming up leftovers to defrosting delicate foods. The pre-programmed buttons are especially handy for quick meals, ensuring consistent results without guesswork.

The LED display is bright and clear, and the kitchen timer doubles as a functional clock when the microwave is idle. The push-button door mechanism makes opening the microwave effortless, a feature often missed in many modern models. Plus, the child lock adds safety for households with young children.

Comparison

Compared to the Panasonic NN-SB458S, a similarly sized 0.9 cu.ft microwave with 900 watts, the BLACK+DECKER model offers slightly less power but compensates with a more compact footprint and user-friendly digital presets. While Panasonic’s model might cook faster due to higher wattage, the BLACK+DECKER’s intuitive controls and safety features make it a standout for users prioritizing ease of use.

Who Is This Product For?

This microwave is perfect for small households, college students, office kitchens, or anyone with limited counter space who still wants reliable, convenient microwave cooking options. It’s also an excellent choice for parents wanting a safe appliance with a child lock and straightforward controls.

Final Verdict

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven strikes a fantastic balance between size, performance, and convenience. Its array of preset cooking functions and safety features make meal preparation quick and worry-free. While it may lack the high wattage of larger models, it delivers consistent cooking results suitable for daily kitchen tasks. If you want a compact, stylish, and easy-to-use microwave that won’t overwhelm your countertop, this is definitely worth considering.

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Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts Review: Compact Power for Small Spaces

If you’re hunting for a microwave that blends convenience, power, and compact design, the Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts is definitely worth a closer look. Perfectly suited for apartments, dorm rooms, and small kitchens, this model offers a smart mix of features that make cooking quick and easy without taking up too much space. Let’s dive into what makes this microwave stand out and whether it’s the right fit for your needs.

Key Features of the Farberware 700-Watt Microwave

– Compact yet roomy: With a 0.7 cubic feet interior, it fits neatly on countertops while providing enough cooking space for various dishes.
– Powerful 700-watt output: Efficient enough to heat and cook meals quickly without sacrificing quality.
– Multiple power levels: Ten adjustable power settings give you full control over cooking intensity for different foods.
– One-touch presets: Six easy-to-use preset buttons including popcorn, potato, and pizza simplify meal preparation.
– Defrost options: Defrost by weight or time, making thawing frozen foods hassle-free.
– Enhanced usability: Clear LED display with timer and clock keeps you informed; interior LED lighting makes monitoring food simple.
– Child safety lock: Adds peace of mind for families with children.
– Easy-to-clean stainless steel: Both interior and exterior surfaces wipe down with ease, maintaining a sleek appearance.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Compact size ideal for tight spaces, versatile power settings, convenient one-touch cooking options, user-friendly LED display, child lock for safety, and easy-to-clean stainless steel finish.
• Cons: 700 watts may be less powerful compared to larger microwaves, interior space might be limited for big dishes, and lacks advanced smart features found in higher-end models.

Performance & User Experience

In everyday use, the Farberware microwave performs reliably and efficiently. The customizable power levels and multi-stage cooking allow users to tailor heating times based on the dish, preventing overcooking or cold spots. The one-touch presets are a real time-saver for popular items like popcorn or baked potatoes, especially when in a rush. The bright interior LED light helps keep an eye on the food without opening the door, avoiding heat loss. Cleaning is straightforward due to the smooth stainless steel surfaces, making it ideal for busy lifestyles.

Comparison with Similar Models

Compared to the Panasonic NN-SB458S Compact Microwave Oven, which offers similar wattage and size, the Farberware stands out with its child safety lock and slightly more power levels, providing added security and cooking flexibility. While Panasonic includes inverter technology for more even cooking, Farberware’s simple interface and sturdy design make it a solid choice for users prioritizing ease of use and safety in a compact form.

Who Is This Microwave Best For?

This microwave is perfect for:

– College students living in dorms
– Apartment dwellers with limited kitchen space
– Office kitchens where quick meal prep is essential
– Small households or individuals who want a reliable everyday microwave without extra bulk

Final Verdict

The Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts offers a well-rounded package of power, size, and functionality tailored for small spaces. It excels in convenience with its one-touch presets and customizable power settings, while safety features like the child lock add extra reassurance. Though it might not suit those needing high wattage or oversized interior capacity, it ticks all the boxes for compact, efficient cooking in household or office environments. If you want a dependable microwave that won’t crowd your countertop but still delivers consistent performance, this Farberware model is a smart investment.

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

If you’re looking for a reliable, space-saving microwave oven that combines convenience with energy efficiency, the COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB is well worth considering. Designed to fit perfectly in apartments, dorm rooms, offices, or small kitchens, this 0.7 cubic foot microwave packs plenty of smart features that make everyday cooking hassle-free. From its mute function to energy-saving ECO mode, it’s a practical choice for those who need straightforward performance without extra bulk.

Key Features

• Compact Size & Power: With a 0.7 cubic foot capacity and 700 watts of power, it’s ideal for small spaces without compromising basic cooking needs.
• Easy One-Touch Controls: Quick-access buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and reheating simplify meal prep.
• Silent Operation: A mute function lets you turn off annoying beeps, perfect for quiet environments.
• Energy Saving ECO Mode: Reduces standby power consumption by 50% by turning off the LED display when not in use.
• Defrost Options: Offers two defrost modes — by weight or time — to thaw your food accurately.
• Child Safety Lock: Provides peace of mind by preventing accidental use.
• Bright LED Display & Kitchen Timer: Easy-to-read digital panel shows clock, timer, and cooking progress.
• Removable 10-inch Glass Turntable: Ensures even cooking and easy cleaning.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
• Compact design fits small spaces effortlessly.
• Intuitive one-touch cooking buttons for popular foods.
• Mute function allows silent operation — ideal for offices or late nights.
• Energy-efficient ECO mode saves electricity.
• Child safety lock enhances household safety.
• Multiple defrost options for versatile food preparation.
• Cons:
• 700 watts may be less powerful than larger microwaves, leading to slightly longer cook times.
• Limited interior space may not accommodate larger dishes.

Performance & User Experience

The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB delivers consistent cooking results for everyday meals and snacks. Its 11 power levels offer flexibility from gentle warming to faster cooking. Users appreciate the bright, clear digital display and straightforward controls that require minimal setup. The mute button and ECO mode are standout features, especially for noise-sensitive environments or energy-conscious users. While the 0.7 cu ft capacity is smaller than full-sized microwaves, it’s perfectly suited for reheating leftovers, preparing quick meals, or defrosting items efficiently.

Comparison with Similar Models

Compared to models like the Toshiba EM925A5A-SS, which offers a slightly larger capacity and higher wattage, the COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB edges out in energy-saving features and silent operation. It’s more compact and better suited for limited counter space. However, if you require faster cooking or bigger capacity, the Toshiba might be preferable, albeit with a higher price point and larger footprint.

Who Is This Product For?

This microwave is ideal for:

• Apartment dwellers and dorm residents with limited kitchen space.
• Office break rooms where quiet operation matters.
• Small households or individuals needing a simple, efficient microwave.
• Anyone prioritizing energy efficiency and ease of use.

Final Verdict

The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB countertop microwave oven strikes a great balance between size, functionality, and energy savings. Its intuitive one-touch controls and silent operation make it a convenient everyday appliance, especially for compact living spaces. While it’s not suited for heavy-duty cooking or large dishes, it performs admirably in typical reheating and simple cooking tasks. If you want a dependable, quiet microwave that respects your space and electricity bills, this model deserves serious consideration.

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Farberware Countertop 700 Watts Microwave Oven Review: Compact Power for Everyday Cooking

If you’re looking for a reliable, space-saving microwave that doesn’t compromise on performance, the Farberware Countertop 700 Watts Microwave Oven is worth considering. Perfect for small kitchens, offices, or dorm rooms, this compact yet powerful microwave offers convenience and versatility that fits right into your busy lifestyle. Let’s explore why this model could be the ideal addition to your countertop.

Key Features

• 700 Watts of Cooking Power: Efficiently heats meals with ten adjustable power levels, allowing for precise control over cooking intensity.
• Compact 0.7 cu ft Capacity: Ideal for limited counter space without sacrificing enough room to accommodate everyday plates and bowls.
• One-Touch Cooking Options: Six preset buttons for quick preparation of popular foods like popcorn, pizza, and potatoes make mealtime effortless.
• Multi-Stage Cooking & Defrost Functions: Customize cooking sequences and easily defrost frozen items by time or weight.
• User-Friendly LED Display & Timer: Large digital screen shows clock, countdown timer, and cooking progress clearly for enhanced usability.
• Safety & Convenience Features: Interior lighting helps monitor food as it cooks, plus a child safety lock adds peace of mind in family environments.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
• Compact size fits well in small kitchens or office spaces
• Multiple power settings offer versatile cooking options
• Easy-to-clean interior and exterior surfaces
• Convenient one-touch presets save time
• Child safety lock provides extra protection
• Cons:
• 700 watts might be less powerful compared to larger microwaves
• Capacity may be limiting for larger dishes or big families
• Basic design lacks advanced smart features found in pricier models

Performance & User Experience

The Farberware 700-Watt microwave performs consistently well for everyday reheating, simple cooking tasks, and defrosting. Users appreciate the straightforward control panel and the responsiveness of the one-touch presets. The interior light makes monitoring easy, while the LED display keeps timing clear at a glance. Though its power is modest compared to higher-end models, it strikes a good balance between energy efficiency and cooking speed, especially in environments where space is limited.

Comparison

Compared to other compact microwaves like the Panasonic NN-SD372S, which offers 950 watts and a slightly larger capacity, the Farberware model is more budget-friendly and compact but delivers slightly less power. If you prioritize size and affordability over maximum wattage, this microwave stands out as a practical choice for smaller living or working spaces.

Who Is This Microwave For?

• Students and dorm residents needing a space-conscious appliance
• Office kitchens looking for reliable, simple microwaves
• Small households or individuals who rarely cook large meals
• Anyone seeking an affordable, easy-to-use microwave without extra bells and whistles

Final Verdict

The Farberware Countertop 700 Watts Microwave Oven is a solid performer that blends compact design with practical features. It’s ideal if you want an uncomplicated microwave for everyday heating and cooking without taking up too much counter space. While it may not suit large families or heavy cooking needs, its user-friendly interface, preset cooking modes, and safety features make it excellent for small spaces and light use. If convenience and simplicity top your list, this model is definitely worth a closer look.

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