BEST Very Small Microwaves: Top 10 Picks
Optimizing appliance real estate demands precision engineering, particularly in compact kitchen environments. For individuals prioritizing efficiency and functionality without sacrificing valuable counter space, the best very small microwave ovens represent a sophisticated solution. These miniature marvels, often boasting advanced inverter technology or convection capabilities, redefine convenience for dorm rooms, studio apartments, or home offices.
Exploring the nuances of wattage, cavity dimensions, and precise temperature control is crucial when selecting a unit that truly maximizes performance within a minimal footprint. Understanding the integration of smart features and durable construction materials allows for an informed decision on acquiring a truly exceptional very small microwave oven.
Discover how these compact powerhouses are revolutionizing quick meal preparation and reheating, offering surprising versatility.
Tiny Ovens, Big Flavor: Find Yours!
1. COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode

Discover the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB, a compact and stylish countertop microwave oven perfect for small kitchens. This 700-watt appliance offers a powerful yet energy-efficient way to reheat, defrost, and cook, fitting seamlessly into any busy household seeking a practical, space-saving solution for everyday meal preparation.
This COMFEE’ microwave boasts an 11-power level system for precise cooking control, featuring 9 pre-programmed auto-cook functions for effortless meal preparation, from popcorn to beverages. Its intuitive button controls and digital display make operation straightforward, while the Mute Function offers a quieter kitchen environment, and ECO Mode significantly reduces standby power consumption.
Pros
- Child Safety Lock: Incorporates a two-step child lock feature, ensuring enhanced safety by preventing accidental operation, a crucial addition for families with young children.
- Mute Functionality: Enjoy peace and quiet with the ability to completely disable all microwave beeps by holding the sound on/off button for 3 seconds, ideal for late-night snacks or quiet mornings.
- Efficient Auto-Cook Options: Features convenient one-touch express cooking (1-6 minutes and +30 seconds) and two defrost settings (by weight or time), alongside popular auto-cook programs like popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and reheat for ultimate user convenience.
- Energy Saving ECO Mode: Reduces standby power consumption by 50%, making it a more eco-friendly and cost-effective choice for everyday use among small microwave ovens.
Cons
- Limited Capacity: As one of the very small microwave ovens, its compact size, while ideal for limited counter space, may not be suitable for larger dishes or families needing to heat multiple items at once.
The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB is an excellent choice for individuals, couples, or small households seeking a reliable and feature-rich compact microwave. Its blend of user-friendly controls, essential auto-cook programs, and thoughtful safety and energy-saving features make it a standout option in the category of best very small microwave ovens.
2. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute

Discover the perfect blend of compact design and powerful performance with the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven.
3. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child

Discover compact convenience with the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 digital microwave oven. Perfectly designed for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or office spaces, this 700-watt appliance offers powerful performance and intuitive operation for your everyday heating needs.
This compact microwave oven boasts 10-touch control power settings, allowing precise temperature adjustments for various foods. The generous 700 watts of power quickly heats beverages, reheats leftovers, or defrosts ingredients. With its convenient pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and dinner plates, getting your meal ready is as simple as pressing a button.
With its convenient pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and dinner plates, getting your meal ready is as simple as pressing a button. The internal LED light illuminates the cooking space, while the removable 10-inch glass turntable ensures even cooking and is dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.
4. BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety

Discover the perfect compact cooking solution with the BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven. Designed for efficiency and ease of use, this countertop appliance is ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or any space where a smaller footprint is paramount.
Enjoy quick and convenient meal preparation with its user-friendly digital interface.
This powerful 900-watt microwave boasts 10 distinct power levels and a spacious 6-inch glass turntable, ensuring even cooking for a variety of dishes. Effortlessly heat beverages, prepare potatoes, or cook frozen vegetables with its intelligent pre-programmed settings, making everyday cooking simpler and faster.
Pros
- Versatile Cooking Presets: Quickly prepare popular items like popcorn, potatoes, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and dinner plates with dedicated one-touch buttons.
- Powerful and Efficient Heating: Delivers 900 watts of cooking power with 10 adjustable power settings and a 30-second express cooking option for rapid reheating or preparation, utilizing efficient microwave radiation.
- User-Friendly Design: Features a large LED digital display, an easy-to-read control panel, and a simple push-button door release for convenient access. A removable 10.6-inch glass turntable simplifies cleaning and ensures uniform heating.
- Enhanced Safety Features: Includes a reliable child safety lock to prevent accidental use, offering peace of mind for households with young children.
Cons
- Limited Capacity: While ideal for compact spaces, its smaller size may be restrictive for cooking larger meals or accommodating oversized dishes.
The BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a dependable and compact microwave for everyday use. Its combination of pre-programmed settings, powerful performance, and safety features makes it a practical addition to any small kitchen or workspace.
5. Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven, Silver

Discover unparalleled convenience and sophisticated design with the Breville Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven in sleek Silver. This appliance simplifies meal preparation, offering precise reheating, defrosting, and cooking capabilities within its remarkably compact footprint.
Experience a quieter kitchen environment thanks to its innovative soft-close door technology.
Engineered for modern kitchens, this compact microwave boasts a 25-liter capacity, perfect for everyday tasks without dominating valuable counter space. Its intuitive interface features one-touch auto buttons and a dedicated food menu, making it exceptionally easy to prepare a wide array of dishes, from quick snacks to full meals, offering a smart solution for small kitchen appliances and countertop microwave needs.
Pros
- Whisper-Quiet Operation: Features an 80% quieter soft-close door and significantly reduced operational noise, enhancing your kitchen’s tranquility. This makes it an ideal quiet microwave for apartments or shared living spaces.
- Intuitive Cooking Presets: One-touch buttons for Reheat, Defrost, Popcorn, and Beverage, plus a variety of Food Menu options (like pizza, vegetables, potatoes), simplify meal preparation for quick and effortless cooking.
- Gentle Defrost & Reheat: The advanced Defrost function thaws food without cooking edges, while the Reheat function uses lower power to warm meals evenly, preserving texture and flavor. These features distinguish it from basic microwave ovens.
- Enhanced Safety Features: Includes a Child Lock function for peace of mind, ensuring safe operation even in households with young children, adding to its appeal as a family-friendly countertop microwave.
- Compact Design with Ample Capacity: Offers a practical 0.9 cu.ft (25L) capacity within a small footprint, making it one of the best very small microwave ovens for kitchens with limited space, without sacrificing functionality.
Cons
- While offering excellent value and features, some users might prefer more advanced smart home connectivity or a digital interface for extremely granular control, although its button-driven controls are highly user-friendly.
The Breville Compact Wave Soft Close microwave is an excellent choice for those seeking an efficient, quiet, and user-friendly appliance for their countertop. Its thoughtful features and compact design make it a standout option, perfectly suited for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or anyone prioritizing ease of use and a quieter cooking experience.
6. FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black

Discover the perfect blend of compact design and powerful performance with the Frigidaire EMW736BLK countertop microwave. This versatile appliance is engineered to fit seamlessly into smaller living spaces, making it an ideal choice for dorms, apartments, or office kitchens seeking a small microwave oven without compromising on functionality.
Boasting a 7 cubic foot capacity and 700 watts of cooking power, this black Frigidaire microwave offers an intuitive digital control panel.
Effortlessly manage express cooking, power levels, defrosting, and timer functions. Its smart sensor technology and six auto-cooking programs simplify meal preparation, ensuring delicious results for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and more.
Pros
- Extremely compact footprint, making it an excellent very small microwave oven solution for tight spaces like dorm rooms, studio apartments, or small office breakrooms.
- User-friendly digital control panel with a variety of convenient features including 10 power levels, express cooking, and a clear LED display for easy monitoring.
- Dual defrost timers offer precise control over reheating frozen foods, allowing for staged cooking and customization of meal preparation on demand.
- Integrated Child Safety Lock provides peace of mind for households with young children, preventing accidental operation and ensuring safe use.
- Six smart auto-cooking presets (popcorn, baked potato, pizza, frozen, reheat, beverage) automate cooking times and power levels for common food items, removing guesswork.
Cons
- The 0.7 cu. ft. interior capacity may be too small for larger dishes or multiple servings, which is a consideration for busy families needing a more substantial microwave.
The Frigidaire EMW736BLK is an outstanding choice for individuals or small households seeking a highly functional and space-saving microwave. Its thoughtful features and easy operation make it a practical addition to any compact kitchen environment where efficiency and convenience are paramount.
7. SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6″ Carousel Turntable, 900

Discover efficient and stylish countertop cooking with the SHARP 9 cu.
ft. Microwave Oven. This compact yet powerful appliance brings 900 watts of cooking power to your kitchen, perfect for reheating, defrosting, and quick meal preparation in small living spaces.
Its sleek stainless steel exterior and modern gray interior complement any décor.
Experience superior reheating and even cooking thanks to the spacious 6 carousel turntable, designed to accommodate most standard dinner plates.
With 10 power levels and intuitive controls, including convenient +30 seconds instant start and specialized Weight and Time Defrost functions, preparing your favorite meals becomes effortless.
Pros
- Versatile 0.9 cu. ft. Capacity: Don’t let its compact size fool you; this SHARP small microwave oven offers ample interior space for everyday cooking needs within its space-saving footprint.
- Powerful 900-Watt Performance: Enjoy rapid and efficient cooking or reheating, making it ideal for busy individuals seeking quick meal solutions. This wattage is competitive for its compact appliance size.
- Even Cooking with Carousel Turntable: The 10.6″ removable glass turntable ensures food rotates for consistent heating, eliminating hot or cold spots often found in other countertop microwave units.
- Advanced Cooking Features: Utilize Auto Cook presets for popular dishes and benefit from Weight and Time Defrost for precise thawing. The 10 power levels and 2-stage cooking provide granular control for various recipes.
- User-Friendly Design: Featuring a modern gray interior, bright white LED display, and clear LED interior lighting, this SHARP microwave oven enhances visibility and operational ease, fitting seamlessly into apartment kitchenettes or dorm rooms.
Cons
- Limited Capacity for Large Items: While deemed a “very small microwave oven” suitable for compact spaces, its 0.9 cu. ft. interior might not accommodate exceptionally large or tall dishes.
This SHARP countertop microwave oven stands out as an excellent choice for those prioritizing performance and style in a smaller package. Its robust features and intuitive operation make it a valuable addition to any compact kitchen needing a reliable and efficient heating solution.
8. GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection

Discover unparalleled versatility with the GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, a compact powerhouse designed to revolutionize your kitchen. This
0 cu. ft. appliance seamlessly blends microwave convenience with air frying, convection baking, and broiling, offering a comprehensive cooking solution for any home or dorm room.
Boasting 1050W of cooking power and 10 variable power levels, this stainless steel marvel tackles everything from rapid reheating to gourmet meals. Its intuitive touch controls and preset programs like Fries and Nuggets simplify meal preparation, while advanced features like Weight & Time Defrost and a child lock ensure safety and efficiency.
Pros
- Multi-Functional Excellence: Seamlessly switch between Microwave, Air Fry, Convection, and Broil modes, making it a true four-in-one kitchen essential for diverse cooking needs.
- Healthier Cooking Options: The integrated Air Fry function delivers delightful crispiness without excess oil, perfect for guilt-free enjoyment of your favorite fried foods.
- Even Cooking and Browning: The Convection feature, complete with a dedicated rack, ensures uniform heat circulation for perfectly golden-brown results on baked goods and roasts.
- User-Friendly Operation: Preset controls and 10 power levels, including a rapid 1050W microwave watt, simplify cooking, while the Weight & Time Defrost takes the guesswork out of thawing.
- Durable and Stylish Design: The sleek stainless steel exterior not only adds a modern touch to any countertop but also ensures easy cleaning and long-lasting durability, fitting perfectly in small kitchens or apartment living.
- Enhanced Safety Features: The Two-Step Child Lock provides peace of mind in households with young children, preventing accidental operation.
Cons
- While its 1.0 cu. ft. capacity is ideal for smaller spaces and individuals, larger families or those who frequently prepare bulk meals may find it slightly limiting compared to larger models.
The GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven is an exceptional choice for those seeking a compact, multi-talented appliance. It is the best very small microwave oven solution for individuals or small households looking to maximize kitchen functionality without sacrificing limited counter space.
9. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1,150-watt Capacity, 1.6 Cubic Ft., 8

Discover efficient and powerful countertop cooking with the GE Countertop Microwave Oven. This 6 cubic ft.
6 cubic ft. appliance boasts 1150 watts of power, offering ample space for your culinary needs without sacrificing valuable kitchen real estate. Its sleek stainless steel finish complements any modern kitchen décor.
Experience versatile cooking with sensor functions that automatically adjust time and power for perfect results. Defrosting is simplified with weight-based or time-set options, while express cooking controls and a helpful kitchen timer streamline meal preparation.
Pros
- Powerful Performance: With 1150 watts, this microwave delivers fast and effective cooking, heating, and defrosting for a variety of foods.
- Ample Capacity: The 1.6 cubic foot interior provides generous space for larger dishes, family-sized meals, and even taller containers, making it a highly functional compact microwave.
- Smart Cooking Features: Sensor cooking automatically optimizes time and power levels, while Weight and Time Defrost takes the guesswork out of thawing frozen ingredients.
- Enhanced Safety: The mandatory two-step child lock feature provides peace of mind, preventing accidental operation by young children, essential for busy households.
- User-Friendly Controls: Intuitive one-touch buttons, Instant On express cooking, and convenient pre-programmed cooking modes like Beverage, Pizza, and Popcorn offer effortless operation.
Cons
- While spacious for its category, users seeking to heat extremely large platters or multiple dishes simultaneously might find its capacity sufficient but not ideal for very expansive culinary projects, though it excels as a small kitchen microwave.
This GE Countertop Microwave Oven is an excellent choice for those seeking a full-featured, reliable appliance. Its combination of power, capacity, and intelligent cooking technology makes it a superior option for everyday reheating, defrosting, and cooking needs in any home kitchen, standing out among small countertop microwaves.
10. BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu Ft, 6 Auto Menus,

Discover the ultimate convenience for your kitchen with the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven. Designed for efficiency and ease, this compact appliance simplifies meal preparation with its smart features and user-friendly interface, making it an ideal choice for modern living, especially for those seeking compact microwave solutions.
Boasting a 9 cubic feet capacity, this small countertop microwave perfectly balances ample cooking space with a minimized footprint.
Pros
- Effortlessly prepares popular foods like popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and frozen vegetables with 6 distinct pre-programmed auto menus, ensuring perfect results for your easy meal prep microwave needs.
- Offers versatile cooking control with 10 adjustable power settings, allowing for precise defrosting, reheating, and cooking tasks in a versatile compact microwave.
- Simplifies operation with a one-touch start feature, ideal for quick reheating or cooking without complicated adjustments, making it a user-friendly small microwave.
- Enhances safety with a two-step child lock, a kitchen timer for precise cooking, and a memory function for recalling favorite settings, contributing to its value as a safe compact microwave.
- The 0.9 cu ft interior easily accommodates a 10-inch pizza, providing surprisingly generous space within its compact design, perfect for dorm room microwaves or studio apartment appliances.
Cons
- While spacious for its size, users focused on larger meal preparation might find the 0.9 cu ft capacity limiting compared to full-sized models, making it less suitable for bulk cooking but excellent for personal microwave use.
The BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven is an excellent addition for those requiring a functional yet space-saving appliance. Its combination of smart presets, versatile power options, and safety features makes it a top contender for anyone searching for the best very small microwave ovens that deliver performance without overwhelming kitchen space.
Tiny Kitchen Champion: Best Very Small Microwaves
Optimal interior capacity for small spaces
The interior volume determines not only what you can heat but also how efficiently it fits into your limited kitchen footprint.
Understanding the usable cubic feet is paramount, as manufacturers’ stated capacities can sometimes be misleading regarding actual cooking space. For a truly compact appliance, differentiating between overall external dimensions and the internal cavity is critical, especially if you’re considering under-cabinet models where height restrictions are common. This distinction ensures the unit will fit both physically and functionally within your designated area.
Think about your typical meal components. Will you need to reheat a standard dinner plate, a small casserole dish, or perhaps a taller mug for beverages?
A unit with around 5 to
7 cubic feet is generally the practical limit for these ultra-compact units, suitable for reheating single servings or preparing simple snacks. For those with very specific spatial constraints, measuring your favorite 7-inch plates or short, wide bowls beforehand is a wise step to avoid disappointment.
Warming power and cooking efficiency
A microwave’s ability to heat and cook food efficiently is paramount, especially in compact appliances where performance can sometimes be compromised.
Higher wattage ratings generally translate to faster heating times, meaning your leftovers are ready to eat in a fraction of the time. For these smaller units, achieving even cooking without hot or cold spots is a significant advantage, ensuring uniform temperatures throughout your meal, whether you’re reheating a single serving or delicately warming a small dish. This also extends to effective defrosting; models with ample power can thaw frozen items for small portions quickly and safely, preventing partial cooking or rubbery textures.
Look for models that clearly state their wattage output, typically ranging from 700 to 1200 watts. For these diminutive machines, a focus on clever cavity design and turntable systems becomes essential to guarantee thorough and consistent results, making them a reliable countertop companion for various quick meal preparations and toasting needs.
Userfriendly controls and interface
Effortless operation is paramount for any kitchen appliance, especially compact models designed for simplicity.
A microwave’s usability hinges on its control panel and display; a confusing setup can turn a quick reheat into a frustrating ordeal. For those seeking compact, efficient countertop helpers, intuitive design ensures that basic functions like defrosting or reheating leftovers can be accessed in seconds, without needing to consult a manual.
This is particularly important in smaller kitchens where space is at a premium and quick meal preparation is often the goal.
Look for models featuring clear, uncluttered button layouts that make common tasks readily available. Digital displays are invaluable, providing unambiguous feedback on cooking times, power levels, and pre-programmed settings. The ease with which you can navigate through various cooking functions, from popcorn to sensor cooking, directly contributes to a positive user experience.
The ease with which you can navigate through various cooking functions, from popcorn to sensor cooking, directly contributes to a positive user experience. Ultimately, a well-designed interface means less time fumbling with knobs and buttons, and more time enjoying your perfectly heated meal.
Durability and build materials
The physical construction of a compact countertop appliance dictates its service life and daily usability.
A durable build ensures your unit withstands regular use without succumbing to wear and tear, offering a reliable heating solution for years. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about ensuring consistent performance and avoiding premature replacement.
Look for models featuring a robust exterior casing constructed from sturdy materials that resist dents and scratches, particularly important in smaller kitchens where space is limited and accidental bumps are more likely. The interior lining is equally critical; a smooth, non-stick coating, often ceramic enamel or a high-quality, food-grade plastic, simplifies cleaning by allowing food splatters to be wiped away effortlessly.
Furthermore, inspect the quality of the door hinges and latches. Well-engineered mechanisms provide a secure seal, ensure smooth operation, and prevent the door from becoming loose or difficult to open after repeated cycles. These components are often the first to show signs of weakness, so their solid construction is paramount for longevity and safe operation.
Quick Best Very Small Microwave Ovens Buying Checklist
- Countertop Footprint: Measure your available counter space precisely before you buy; look for dimensions under 15 inches wide and 10 inches deep.
- Internal Capacity (Cubic Feet): Aim for 0.5 to 0.7 cubic feet for single servings or small reheating needs; larger capacities defeat the purpose of a “very small” microwave.
- Wattage for Speed: Choose at least 700 watts for reasonable cooking and reheating times; lower wattages will significantly increase cooking duration.
- Essential Functions: Prioritize basic cooking, reheating, and defrost by weight/time; complex presets are often unnecessary and add bulk.
- Door Swing/Opening: Consider if the door opens from the left or right to ensure clearance and ease of access in your specific kitchen layout.
- Noise Level: Look for models with lower decibel ratings if your microwave will be used in an open-plan living space or office.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Interior Capacity Is Considered “Very Small” For A Microwave Oven?
For a microwave oven, an interior capacity of under 1 cubic foot is generally considered very small. This typically means you’ll be looking at models around 0.7 to 0.9 cubic feet, which are ideal for single servings, reheating leftovers, or small individual meals. If you frequently cook for more than one person or need to fit larger dishes, you’ll want to opt for a slightly larger size.
Which Very Small Microwave Ovens Are Best For Countertop Placement Without Taking Up Too Much Space?
Look for compact countertop microwaves typically falling in the under 1 cubic foot capacity range to maximize space. Prioritize models with a small footprint, often around 17-18 inches wide, and consider single, accessible controls to keep the design uncluttered.
How Much Power Output Should I Prioritize In A Very Small Microwave For Efficient Heating?
For a very small microwave, aim for a power output of at least 700 watts for efficient heating. While higher wattage usually means faster cooking, this is a good baseline for most compact models to effectively raise food temperatures.
Are There Any Specific Features That Are Particularly Useful In Very Compact Microwave Models?
To maximize convenience in compact microwaves, look for pre-programmed settings for common items like popcorn or reheating meals, and consider models with a turntable that can be switched off for accommodating larger, rectangular dishes. Efficient internal cavity design and sensor cooking technology are also invaluable for ensuring evenly heated food without taking up extra counter space.
Can I Find Very Small Microwave Ovens That Are Also Quiet During Operation?
Yes, you can find very small microwave ovens that operate quietly. Look for models marketed as compact or countertop microwaves, and pay attention to manufacturer specifications or user reviews that mention noise levels; some smaller units are designed for minimal sound. Prioritize models with features like inverter technology, which can also contribute to quieter and more even cooking.
Final Words
Investing in a very small microwave oven brings significant advantages, offering quick heating and convenient cooking without demanding precious counter space. These compact powerhouses are perfect for transforming tight living quarters or busy kitchens into efficient hubs.
