Ever feel like your kitchen is bursting at the seams? Or maybe you just need a quick way to reheat your leftovers without taking up a ton of counter space. That’s where the humble, yet mighty, small microwave oven comes in! These compact powerhouses are perfect for dorm rooms, tiny apartments, office break rooms, or any place where space is a precious commodity.
But let’s be honest, picking the *right* small microwave can be a bit of a puzzle. You want something that heats your food evenly, fits your budget, and doesn’t look out of place in your kitchen. It’s easy to get lost in all the different sizes, wattages, and features. You might be wondering, “Which one will actually be easy to use and last a long time?”
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this post, we’ll dive deep into what makes a great small microwave oven. We’ll explore the key things to look for, compare different types, and even share some tips for getting the most out of yours. By the time you finish reading, you’ll be a small microwave pro, ready to choose the perfect one for your needs.
Our Top 5 Small Microwave Ovens Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Small Microwave Ovens Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 8.8/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a handy appliance for any kitchen. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks good on any countertop. This microwave is designed for simple everyday use, making reheating leftovers or cooking quick meals a breeze. It’s compact at 0.7 cubic feet, so it won’t take up too much space. Plus, it has a child safety lock for peace of mind.
What We Like:
- It has pre-programmed buttons for popular foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- The 30-second express cooking feature is super convenient for quick heating.
- The large LED display is easy to read, and the control panel is straightforward.
- The push-button door release makes opening and closing easy.
- A removable glass turntable ensures even cooking and is simple to clean.
- The child safety lock adds an extra layer of security.
What Could Be Improved:
- At 700 watts, it might take a little longer to cook or reheat some foods compared to higher-wattage microwaves.
- The 0.7 cubic feet capacity might feel small if you often cook large dishes or family-sized meals.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave offers a good balance of features and ease of use for its price. It’s a solid option for basic kitchen needs.
2. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 8.8/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact powerhouse, perfect for any kitchen. Its sleek black design fits seamlessly with your other appliances. With 700 watts of power and 10 different levels, you can cook or reheat food quickly. It also has six handy cooking presets, so you can make popcorn or heat up leftovers with just one touch. Plus, it’s easy to clean, making your life simpler.
What We Like:
- Extra-quick cooking with six popular presets like popcorn, pizza, and veggies.
- 10 power levels let you control the cooking from low to high.
- Digital controls make it easy to set time and power.
- Memory function lets you save your favorite cooking settings.
- Child safety lock keeps the door secure.
- Mute button lets you turn off annoying beeps.
- Eco Mode saves power and turns off the display.
- Easy to clean exterior and a dishwasher-safe turntable.
- cETL approved with advanced safety and a 1-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be small for larger meals or multiple items.
This Chefman microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and efficiency for daily cooking needs. It’s a reliable and user-friendly appliance that gets the job done.
3. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 9.3/10
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) is a compact, 0.9 cubic foot microwave oven that brings convenience and modern features to your kitchen. Its stylish black stainless steel finish fits well in any apartment or small space. This microwave is designed to make cooking and reheating quick and easy with its user-friendly controls and helpful functions.
What We Like:
- Safety First: The two-step child lock is a great feature that keeps little hands from accidentally turning it on.
- Versatile Cooking: With 6 preset menus for foods like popcorn and potatoes, plus 11 power levels, you can cook almost anything.
- Quick Start & Defrost: Easily defrost food by weight or time. You can also start cooking for up to 6 minutes with just one touch.
- Quiet Operation: The mute mode lets you turn off the beeping sounds, so you won’t disturb anyone.
- Bright Interior: The LED lighting makes it easy to see your food while it’s cooking.
- Spacious Interior: The 10.6-inch removable turntable fits most standard dishes.
What Could Be Improved:
- Input Power: While it outputs 900 watts, its input power is 1400 watts, which is something to consider for energy usage.
This Toshiba microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and feature-rich appliance for their small kitchen. It offers a good balance of convenience and safety.
4. Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts
Rating: 8.5/10
Meet the Farberware Countertop Microwave, your new best friend for quick and tasty meals. This little powerhouse is perfect for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or anywhere you need a convenient way to heat things up. It’s got 700 watts of power, which is plenty for most tasks. Plus, it looks great with its easy-to-clean stainless steel finish.
What We Like:
- It’s powerful enough to cook food quickly.
- It has ten different power levels, so you can cook your food just right.
- You get six one-touch buttons for popular foods like popcorn and potatoes.
- The 0.7 cu. ft. size is great for small spaces.
- The LED lighting lets you see inside easily.
- A child lock feature keeps little hands safe.
- The stainless steel makes it easy to wipe clean.
- It has a clear display with a timer and clock.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 700-watt power might not be enough for some more complex cooking.
- While compact, it might not fit larger dishes.
This Farberware microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a compact and user-friendly appliance. It gets the job done efficiently and safely.
5. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 9.3/10
Meet the COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB, a countertop microwave that makes cooking and reheating a breeze. This 0.7 cubic foot oven comes in sleek black and is designed for convenience. It’s small enough to fit on most counters but big enough for everyday meals.
What We Like:
- The mute function lets you turn off those annoying beeps, so you can cook in peace.
- Save energy with ECO Mode, which cuts standby power by half.
- Easy one-touch buttons mean you can cook popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and more with just one press.
- Express cooking gets your food ready fast with 1-6 minute options and a +30 second button.
- Defrosting is simple, whether you know the weight or just the time.
- A bright digital display and an interior light make it easy to see what’s happening.
- The child safety lock keeps little hands from accidentally starting the oven.
- It comes with a one-year limited warranty for your peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic foot size might be too small for larger dishes or family-sized meals.
- While it has auto-cook functions, some users might prefer more advanced cooking presets.
This COMFEE microwave offers a great mix of helpful features and user-friendly operation. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and quiet microwave for their kitchen.
Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Small Microwave Oven
Why a Small Microwave?
Sometimes, you just need a microwave for small tasks. Maybe you live in a dorm, have a tiny kitchen, or just want to heat up a mug of coffee or a quick snack. Small microwaves are perfect for these situations. They save space and are energy-efficient. Let’s explore what makes a good small microwave.
Key Features to Look For
1. Size and Capacity
Small microwaves are typically under 1 cubic foot. This means they are compact and fit easily on countertops or in small cabinets. They usually have a turntable that can hold plates up to 10 or 11 inches wide. Make sure the dimensions fit your space. Check the *exterior* dimensions to see if it fits where you want it.
2. Wattage
Microwave power is measured in watts. Most small microwaves are between 700 and 1000 watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking. For basic tasks like reheating and defrosting, 700-800 watts is usually enough. If you plan to cook more often, aim for 900 watts or higher.
3. Cooking Presets and Functions
Many small microwaves come with helpful presets. These can include buttons for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and beverages. Some also have defrost settings that let you choose by weight or time. Look for features that match how you’ll use the microwave.
4. Turntable
A rotating turntable ensures even cooking. Most small microwaves have one. Some larger models might offer a turntable off option, which is nice, but for small microwaves, a working turntable is usually standard.
5. Controls and Interface
Look for easy-to-use buttons and a clear digital display. Some microwaves have simple dial controls, while others have touchpads. Choose what feels most comfortable for you.
Important Materials
The inside of a microwave is usually made of stainless steel or coated metal. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean. Painted interiors are also common and work well. The exterior is typically made of plastic or painted metal. Both are fine for small microwaves.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes it Better:
- Consistent Heating: A good microwave heats food evenly without hot or cold spots.
- Durable Build: Sturdy construction means it will last longer.
- Quiet Operation: Some microwaves are noisy. Quieter models are more pleasant to use.
- Easy Cleaning: A non-stick interior and simple control panel make cleanup a breeze.
What Can Make it Worse:
- Uneven Cooking: This is a major annoyance.
- Flimsy Construction: A microwave that feels cheap might not last.
- Difficult Controls: Confusing buttons or a hard-to-read display can be frustrating.
- Short Cord: A very short power cord can limit where you can place it.
User Experience and Use Cases
Small microwaves are fantastic for simple tasks. They are great for:
- Heating leftovers
- Making instant meals
- Melting butter
- Reheating drinks
- Making popcorn
- Defrosting small portions of food
They are ideal for single people, students in dorms, or anyone with limited kitchen space. The user experience should be straightforward. You want to be able to pop something in and have it ready quickly without much fuss.
Small Microwave Oven FAQs
Q: What is the smallest microwave size available?
A: The smallest microwaves are usually around 0.5 to 0.7 cubic feet. They are very compact.
Q: Can I cook a whole chicken in a small microwave?
A: No, a small microwave is not designed for large items like a whole chicken. They are best for smaller plates and containers.
Q: Do I need a special plate for my microwave?
A: You should use microwave-safe dishes. Glass, ceramic, and certain plastics are usually safe. Never use metal.
Q: How do I clean a small microwave?
A: You can clean the inside with a damp cloth and mild soap. For stubborn spots, heat a bowl of water with lemon slices for a few minutes to loosen grime.
Q: Are small microwaves less powerful than larger ones?
A: Not necessarily. While they have less internal space, their wattage can still be high, meaning they can cook quickly.
Q: What does “cu. ft.” mean?
A: “Cu. ft.” stands for cubic feet. It measures the internal volume or capacity of the microwave.
Q: Can I put a small microwave in a cabinet?
A: Always check the owner’s manual. Microwaves need ventilation to prevent overheating. Ensure the cabinet has proper airflow.
Q: What is the difference between a countertop and a built-in microwave?
A: Countertop microwaves sit on your counter. Built-in microwaves are designed to be installed into cabinetry.
Q: How long should a small microwave last?
A: With proper care, a small microwave can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years.
Q: Are there any safety tips I should know?
A: Always ensure the door seals properly. Do not operate a microwave if it is damaged. Never heat sealed containers.
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.