Do you ever feel like your kitchen is just a little too cramped? Maybe your current microwave takes up too much precious counter space, leaving you with barely enough room to prepare your meals. It’s a common kitchen woe! Finding the perfect small countertop microwave can feel like a treasure hunt, with so many brands and features to consider. You want something that heats your food quickly and evenly, but also fits neatly into your existing setup without making your kitchen feel cluttered.
That’s exactly why we’re diving into the world of small countertop microwaves today. We know the struggle is real when it comes to picking the right one. But don’t worry, this post is here to make your life easier! By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a much clearer idea of what makes a great small microwave, what features actually matter, and how to choose one that’s just right for your kitchen and your needs.
So, let’s get started on finding that perfect, space-saving kitchen helper!
Our Top 5 Small Countertop Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Small Countertop Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts
Rating: 8.6/10
The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a fantastic option for anyone needing a compact and efficient way to heat up food. With 700 watts of power and a 0.7 cubic foot capacity, it handles all your basic microwave needs with ease. Its stainless steel finish makes it look great on any counter, and it’s built for small spaces like apartments and dorm rooms.
What We Like:
- It has 700 watts of power for quick cooking.
- There are ten power levels and six one-touch cooking options for popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- It can defrost food by weight or time.
- The 0.7 cu. ft. size is perfect for small kitchens.
- The interior and exterior are easy to clean.
- It includes an LED display, kitchen timer, and clock.
- Interior LED lighting lets you see your food as it cooks.
- A child safety lock adds extra security.
What Could Be Improved:
- While powerful for its size, 700 watts might be slower for larger portions compared to higher wattage microwaves.
- The 0.7 cu. ft. interior might be too small for very large dinner plates or bulky items.
This Farberware microwave offers a great balance of features and convenience for everyday use. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use countertop appliance.
2. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 8.5/10
Get ready to cook faster and smarter with the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven! This compact 0.7 cu. ft. microwave is packed with features to make your kitchen life easier. Its 700 watts of power and 10 different power levels let you cook anything from melting butter to quickly heating leftovers. Plus, with six handy cooking presets, you can cook popcorn, pizza, and more with just one touch.
What We Like:
- The six one-touch cooking presets make meal prep super fast.
- You can choose from 10 power levels for precise cooking.
- The +30 seconds button is great for adding extra cooking time.
- The memory function lets you save your favorite cooking settings.
- The child safety lock gives you peace of mind.
- The mute button is a lifesaver for quiet kitchens.
- Eco Mode helps you save energy and the display can be turned off.
- It’s easy to clean, with a dishwasher-safe turntable.
- Chefman offers trusted quality with a 1-year assurance.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu. ft. size might be too small for larger families or big meals.
This Chefman microwave offers a fantastic blend of convenience and smart features for your kitchen. It’s a reliable appliance that makes everyday cooking a breeze.
3. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 9.2/10
Meet the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven, a compact and powerful kitchen helper. This 0.7 cubic foot stainless steel microwave is designed for quick meals and snacks. It’s easy to use with its digital display and simple controls. The 700 watts of cooking power handle most everyday tasks.
What We Like:
- It has handy pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and dinner plates.
- The 30-second express cooking button is great for quick reheating.
- Its child safety lock gives parents peace of mind.
- The interior light lets you see your food as it cooks.
- A removable 10-inch glass turntable ensures even cooking and is easy to clean.
- The push-button door release makes opening the microwave simple.
- It comes with a clock and kitchen timer for added convenience.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic foot capacity might be small for larger families or big meal prep.
- While efficient, 700 watts of power may not be as fast as higher wattage microwaves for some cooking tasks.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave offers solid performance and useful features for its size. It’s a practical choice for dorm rooms, small kitchens, or anyone needing a reliable, straightforward microwave.
4. COMFEE CMO-C20M1WB Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.1/10
Meet the COMFEE CMO-C20M1WB Countertop Microwave Oven, a small but mighty appliance perfect for any kitchen. This 0.7 cubic-foot microwave packs a punch with 700 watts of power and 11 different power levels, giving you plenty of control for all your cooking needs. Its stylish design and compact size make it a great fit for countertops without taking up too much space. Plus, it’s packed with features to make cooking and reheating a breeze.
What We Like:
- It has a two-step child lock feature for extra safety.
- The microwave offers 11 power levels for precise cooking.
- Speedy cooking and one-touch express cooking buttons make meal prep fast.
- Weight and time defrost options are super handy.
- A memory function lets you save your favorite cooking settings.
- The bright digital display and easy-to-read control panel are user-friendly.
- It includes popular auto-cook functions like popcorn, potato, and pizza.
- The 10-inch glass turntable ensures even heating.
- The compact size is ideal for small kitchens or dorm rooms.
What Could Be Improved:
- The internal dimensions are a bit snug, so large dishes might not fit.
This COMFEE microwave is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use countertop appliance. It simplifies everyday cooking with its smart features and user-friendly design.
5. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 9.0/10
Looking for a microwave that fits your small space and busy life? The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) is a fantastic option, especially for apartments and dorm rooms. It’s compact at 0.9 cubic feet but packs a punch with 900 watts of cooking power. Plus, its sleek stainless steel finish makes it look good in any kitchen.
What We Like:
- It has 6 helpful auto-menus for common foods like popcorn and potatoes.
- The mute function lets you turn off the beeping sound, which is great for quiet mornings or late nights.
- A two-step child lock keeps little hands from turning it on accidentally.
- You get 11 different power levels, giving you control for all sorts of cooking tasks.
- Defrosting is easy, whether you use weight or time.
- The LED lighting inside makes it easy to see your food as it cooks.
- It includes a spacious 10.6-inch removable turntable that’s easy to clean.
- The “One Touch Start” feature quickly starts cooking for 1-6 minutes at full power.
What Could Be Improved:
- While compact, the 0.9 cu ft capacity might be small for larger families or cooking big meals.
- The external dimensions, though fitting for small spaces, might still be a tight squeeze for some countertops.
This TOSHIBA microwave is a well-rounded appliance that offers smart features for easy cooking and added safety. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly microwave for a smaller kitchen.
Your Kitchen’s New Best Friend: Choosing a Small Countertop Microwave
Finding the right small countertop microwave can make your kitchen life so much easier. Whether you’re reheating leftovers, popping popcorn, or quickly defrosting ingredients, a good microwave is a lifesaver. This guide will help you pick the perfect one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep these important features in mind:
- Wattage: This tells you how powerful your microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most small microwaves are between 700 and 1000 watts. For everyday tasks, 700-800 watts is usually enough. If you want to cook things faster, aim for 900 watts or more.
- Capacity (Cubic Feet): This is the inside space of the microwave. Small microwaves usually range from 0.5 to 1.0 cubic feet. A 0.7 cubic foot microwave can fit a standard dinner plate. If you plan to heat larger items or cook more at once, look for something closer to 1.0 cubic feet.
- Turntable: Most microwaves have a glass turntable that spins food around. This helps food cook more evenly. Make sure the turntable is removable so you can clean it easily.
- Preset Cooking Options: Many microwaves come with buttons for common tasks like popcorn, pizza, or reheating. These can be super handy and take the guesswork out of cooking.
- Digital Display and Controls: A clear digital display makes it easy to see cooking times and settings. Simple buttons are best for quick adjustments. Some microwaves have touch controls, while others use buttons you push.
Important Materials
The materials used in a microwave affect its durability and how it looks.
- Exterior: Most microwaves have a metal exterior, often stainless steel or painted steel. Stainless steel looks sleek and is easy to clean, but it can show fingerprints. Painted steel is more budget-friendly.
- Interior: The inside is usually made of painted metal. Some higher-end models might have ceramic or stainless steel interiors, which are easier to clean and can be more durable.
- Door: The door has a glass window so you can see your food. The glass should be sturdy and have a good seal to keep heat inside.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Think about these things to get the best value.
- Build Quality: A well-built microwave feels solid. When you open and close the door, it should feel secure. The buttons should work smoothly.
- Ease of Cleaning: Look for a microwave with a smooth interior that you can wipe down easily. Removable turntables are a big plus. Non-stick interior coatings can also make cleaning a breeze.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves can be quite loud when running. If you’re sensitive to noise, check reviews to see if a particular model is known for being quiet.
- Brand Reputation: Stick with brands known for making reliable appliances. Well-known brands often offer better customer service and warranties.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use your microwave will guide your choice.
- Single Person or Small Household: If it’s just for you or two people, a smaller capacity microwave (around 0.7-0.9 cubic feet) is perfect. It won’t take up too much counter space.
- Dorm Room or Office: These are ideal spots for small, basic microwaves. Focus on simple controls and enough power to heat up snacks and meals.
- Quick Reheating: If you just need to reheat coffee or last night’s dinner, any basic small microwave will do the job.
- Defrosting: If you frequently defrost frozen foods, look for a microwave with a good defrost setting. This helps thaw food evenly without cooking it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What’s the best wattage for a small microwave?
A: For most small countertop microwaves, 700 to 1000 watts is common. 700-800 watts is good for basic reheating. If you want faster cooking, choose one with 900 watts or more.
Q: How much space do I need for a small microwave?
A: Small microwaves typically range from 0.5 to 1.0 cubic feet. A 0.7 cubic foot model is usually enough for a standard dinner plate.
Q: Do I need a turntable?
A: Yes, a turntable helps your food cook more evenly by spinning it as it heats. It’s also good if it’s easy to remove for cleaning.
Q: Are preset cooking options really useful?
A: Yes, preset buttons for things like popcorn or pizza can make cooking much simpler. They take the guesswork out of setting the right time and power.
Q: What’s the difference between touch controls and button controls?
A: Touch controls are flat and smooth, making them easy to wipe clean. Button controls are physical buttons you push. Both work well, it’s a matter of personal preference.
Q: Is stainless steel better than painted steel for the exterior?
A: Stainless steel looks modern and is easy to clean, but it can show fingerprints. Painted steel is usually more affordable.
Q: How can I tell if a microwave is good quality?
A: Look for a microwave that feels sturdy. The door should open and close smoothly, and the buttons should work easily. Check reviews for comments on build quality.
Q: Which microwaves are easiest to clean?
A: Microwaves with smooth interiors and removable turntables are easiest to clean. Some have special non-stick coatings inside.
Q: Are small microwaves good for cooking meals?
A: Small microwaves are best for reheating, defrosting, and cooking simple items like popcorn or baked potatoes. They might be too small for cooking full meals with multiple dishes.
Q: What should I do if my microwave stops working?
A: First, check if it’s plugged in and if the circuit breaker has tripped. If it still doesn’t work, consult your user manual or contact the manufacturer’s customer service. It might be under warranty.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.