BEST Low Profile Microwaves: Top 10 Picks

The best low profile countertop microwave offers a sleek, space-saving solution for modern kitchens, ideal for those with limited counter space or a preference for minimalist design. When selecting one, consider heating power, capacity, and specialized features like sensor cooking or convection capabilities. A poorly chosen unit might offer insufficient heating or take up too much precious counter real estate, leading to frustration and wasted investment.

With numerous models available, each boasting unique strengths, finding the perfect fit requires careful evaluation of your specific needs and kitchen layout. We’ve compiled a list of top contenders to help you navigate the options and make an informed decision for your home.

The best low profile countertop microwave offers a balance of compact size and cooking power, such as the LG Countertop Microwave with its 0.9 cu. ft. capacity and Smart Inverter technology for precise heating.

Other notable options include the GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS for its 1.1 cu. ft.

capacity and 800 watts of power, and the Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave with its 25L footprint and convenient presets.

Best Low Profile Countertop Microwaves at a Glance

Image	Product	Buy
Best Pick 1	GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave, 800W, Sensor Best for: Sensor cooking	Check Price
Best Pick 2	GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection Best for: Convection cooking	Check Price
Best Pick 3	Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven, Silver Best for: Small kitchens	Check Price
Best Pick 4	BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Best for: Basic needs	Check Price
Best Pick 5	LG Countertop Microwave, 0.9 cu. ft., Stainless Steel, 18.75x14x10.69 Inch, Best for: Compact capacity	Check Price

How We Picked

We prioritized models offering robust build quality and excellent real-world performance for the best low profile countertop microwave. Key evaluation criteria included durability and safety features like child locks. Standout functionalities, such as advanced inverter technology for even heating and specific cooking presets, heavily influenced our choices.

We ruled out units with consistently average user feedback on cooking consistency or those lacking substantial safety assurances, focusing instead on well-rounded performance and long-term value, ensuring each selected product provided reliable operation through 2026.

What Most Buyers Get Wrong

Countertop Depth Matters

When looking for a low profile microwave, paying close attention to its depth is crucial to ensure it fits comfortably on your countertop without jutting out too far. Manufacturers often list dimensions, but depth can sometimes refer to the total unit including the door handle. For instance, the LG Countertop Microwave with a 1.5 cu.

ft. capacity measures 16.19 inches deep, ideal for shallower counters.

Measure your available space carefully before purchasing to avoid overhang.

Harnessing Smart Inverter Technology

For precise and even heating, look for microwaves featuring Smart Inverter technology. This innovation allows for more accurate temperature control, meaning delicate foods won’t overcook easily. Both the LG NeoChef models, one at 0.9 cu.

ft. and another at 1.5 cu.

ft., highlight this feature. It’s a significant advantage over traditional microwaves that can sometimes result in hot spots and unevenly cooked meals.

1. GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave, 800W, Sensor

Best for: smart home adopters.

An 800W GE Profile microwave offers 1.1 cu. ft. capacity for balanced meals, featuring Scan to Cook technology for precise frozen meal preparation and WiFi Connect for remote control via smartphone.

This unit provides 10 power levels and a defrost function, controlled by a touch interface. WiFi connectivity allows for management of power, cook time, and timers remotely, enhancing convenience for busy households.

Pros

• 800W cooking power for quick results
• 1.1 cu. ft. capacity fits standard dishes
• Scan to Cook for accurate meal prep
• WiFi Connect for remote operation

Cons

• 800W is less powerful than some competitors

For those who value smart home integration and precise cooking of pre-packaged meals, this GE Profile model offers advanced convenience. Its WiFi capabilities allow for adjustments even when you’re not in the kitchen.

2. GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection

Best for: health-conscious multitaskers.

A 1500W GE 4-in-1 microwave combines air frying, convection, and broiling within a 1.0 cu. ft. capacity, allowing for healthier, crispier meals and faster cooking.

This versatile appliance boasts 10 power levels, 12 cooking programs including Air Fry and Convection modes, and a 1050W convection power output coupled with 1500W microwave power for efficient cooking.

Pros

• 1500W microwave power for speed
• Air Fry function for healthier crisping
• Convection feature ensures even browning
• Broil setting for searing and caramelizing

Cons

• 1.0 cu. ft. capacity may be small for large items

Ideal for consumers seeking maximum functionality in a single appliance, this GE 4-in-1 model caters to diverse cooking needs. Perfect for smaller kitchens looking to embrace air frying and convection without a separate appliance.

3. Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven, Silver

Best for: small kitchen entertainers.

The Breville Compact Wave 25L microwave, engineered with a soft-close door, delivers precise reheating, defrosting, and cooking in a compact footprint designed for kitchens with limited space.

This 25L capacity microwave features IQ sensor IQ cook and reheat functions to automatically adjust cooking time and power. Its one-touch auto buttons and food menu simplify preparation of common dishes.

Pros

• 25L capacity suits many meal sizes
• Soft-close door operates quietly
• IQ sensor for automatic cooking adjustments
• One-touch auto buttons for speed

Cons

• Wattage is not specified, implying standard power

For those with compact kitchens who desire intelligent cooking features, this Breville microwave excels. Its quiet operation and intuitive presets make it a convenient addition for everyday meals.

4. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child

Best for: budget-conscious singles.

The 700W BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 microwave provides a compact 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and 10 power settings, featuring pre-programmed buttons for common foods like popcorn and pizza.

This model includes a 10” glass turntable for even heating, a large LED display, and a child safety lock for added security. Its push-button door release offers convenient access.

Pros

• 700W cooking power is efficient
• 0.7 cu. ft. capacity for small spaces
• Six pre-programmed auto-cook buttons
• Child safety lock for peace of mind

Cons

• 700W is lower power than many microwaves

This budget-friendly BLACK+DECKER microwave is perfect for a single person or small apartment needing basic microwave functions. Its straightforward operation and compact size are ideal for minimal counter space.

5. LG Countertop Microwave, 0.9 cu. ft., Stainless Steel, 18.75x14x10.69 Inch,

Best for: precision heating seekers.

An LG 0.9 cu. ft. stainless steel microwave utilizes Smart Inverter technology for precise cooking power control and even heating, delivering 1000W of consistent performance.

With 10 adjustable power levels and seven Auto Cook options, this microwave offers versatile cooking for dishes ranging from bacon to rice. The EasyClean interior simplifies maintenance.

Pros

• 1000W Smart Inverter power for even heating
• 0.9 cu. ft. capacity is suitable for many tasks
• Seven Auto Cook options simplify meal prep
• EasyClean interior for quick wiping

Cons

• 0.9 cu. ft. capacity limits large items

Individuals prioritizing even heating and precise power control will appreciate this LG microwave. Its Smart Inverter technology ensures no more hot spots or undercooked centers.

6. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1,150-watt Capacity, 1.6 Cubic Ft., 8

Best for: family meal preparers.

A 1150W GE countertop microwave offers a generous 1.6 cu. ft. capacity, efficiently handling larger meals while featuring sensor cooking controls for optimal results.

This model includes a two-step child lock for safety, weight and time defrost options, and 10 power levels across 10 programs. The glass turntable facilitates even cooking.

Pros

• 1150W power for fast cooking
• 1.6 cu. ft. capacity fits large dishes
• Sensor cooking adjusts time/power automatically
• Two-step child lock enhances safety

Cons

• 1.6 cu. ft. capacity may be too large for small kitchens

Families needing to heat larger portions or multiple dishes will benefit from this GE microwave’s substantial capacity. Its higher wattage and sensor cooking ensure efficient and consistent meal preparation.

7. GE Countertop Microwave Oven,1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8

Best for: large portion heaters.

This GE countertop microwave delivers 1200W of power in a 2.0 cu. ft. capacity, allowing for easy heating of large family-sized meals efficiently.

Featuring sensor cooking controls, it automatically adjusts time and power for ideal results, complemented by weight and time defrost and 10 power levels. A glass turntable ensures even cooking.

Pros

• 1200W power for rapid heating
• 2.0 cu. ft. capacity for very large items
• Sensor cooking optimizes meal prep
• Auto defrost simplifies thawing

Cons

• 2.0 cu. ft. capacity requires significant counter space

For households that frequently prepare large meals, this GE microwave with its 2.0 cu. ft. capacity is an excellent choice. Its high wattage and sensor technology make short work of family-sized portions.

8. BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety

Best for: quick snack makers.

The 900W BLACK+DECKER digital microwave offers a 0.9 cu. ft. capacity and 10 power settings, with convenient pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, and pizza.

This model includes a 10.6” glass turntable for uniform cooking, a large LED display for easy readability, and a child safety lock. The 30-second express cooking function adds speed.

Pros

• 900W power for good performance
• 0.9 cu. ft. capacity suits most needs
• Six express cook buttons for speed
• Clear LED display for simple operation

Cons

• 0.9 cu. ft. is not ideal for very large dishes

This BLACK+DECKER microwave is well-suited for individuals seeking a reliable appliance for quick snacks and reheating. Its straightforward controls and express cooking options are perfect for busy individuals.

9. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.4 Cubic Ft., 1,100-watt Capacity, 7

Best for: efficient meal reheaters.

A 1100W GE countertop microwave provides 1.4 cu. ft. capacity for efficient reheating and cooking, featuring sensor cooking controls that automatically optimize time and power.

This appliance includes a two-step child lock, express cook instant-on functions for 1-6 minutes, and 10 power levels. The glass turntable ensures food heats evenly.

Pros

• 1100W power cooks food quickly
• 1.4 cu. ft. capacity handles family portions
• Sensor cooking ensures perfect results
• Instant-on Express Cook for speed

Cons

• 1.4 cu. ft. capacity may be too large for some countertops

For users who prioritize efficient meal reheating and cooking with smart adjustments, this GE microwave is a strong candidate. Its capacity is versatile for both single servings and family meals.

10. LG Countertop Microwave, 1.5 cu. ft., Stainless Steel, 21.44″x12.13″x16.19″, Smart

Best for: family cooks with smart features.

LG’s 1.5 cu. ft. stainless steel NeoChef microwave combines 1200W Smart Inverter power for precise heating with seven sensor cook options for perfect meal results.

This large-capacity microwave features a roomy 1.5 cu. ft. interior, 10 power levels, and a Glass Touch control panel for intuitive operation. It also includes Auto and Rapid Defrost.

Pros

• 1200W Smart Inverter power for even cooking
• 1.5 cu. ft. capacity fits large meals
• Seven sensor cook options for accuracy
• EasyClean interior resists stains

Cons

• 1.5 cu. ft. capacity takes up significant counter space

Ideal for families needing a high-capacity microwave with advanced cooking technology, this LG model offers both power and precision. The Smart Inverter and sensor cooking ensure consistently delicious results every time.

Capacity Trade-offs in Best Low Profile Countertop Microwave

When selecting a best low profile countertop microwave, the fundamental decision hinges on prioritizing interior volume over exterior footprint, a trade-off often blurred by marketing but starkly evident in the product specifications. The crucial differentiator isn’t wattage or features, but rather how much food can actually fit and how that size impacts its cooking efficiency within a constrained profile. A larger capacity microwave, like the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 1,200-watt, offers substantial room for larger dishes and family-sized portions, but its physical dimensions will inevitably occupy more counter space, negating the low profile aspect for some users.

Conversely, models such as the Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven, Silver, emphasize a smaller external size, which is desirable for tight kitchens, but this often comes at the expense of cooking space—its 25L capacity, while adequate for reheating or individual meals, will struggle with larger casserole dishes or multiple items. The LG Countertop Microwave, 0.9 cu.

ft., Stainless Steel, further exemplifies this by offering a very compact form factor, suitable for minimalists, but with a commensurately reduced cooking capacity that might prove limiting for households with higher demands.

This internal capacity directly influences cooking performance. Microwaves with larger cubic footage, such as the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.6 Cubic Ft., 1,150-watt, can often accommodate larger turntables or allow food to rotate more freely, leading to more even heating, especially for dense items. The GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave, 800W, Sensor, falls into a mid-range capacity where designers attempt to balance space efficiency with performance, but even here, the 1.1 cu.

ft. might still feel constricting compared to larger units when attempting to reheat a full meal.

The power output (e.g., the 1050W of the GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, or the 1000 watts of the LG Countertop Microwave, 0.9 cu. ft.) is secondary to how well the food can be positioned for optimal microwave energy absorption. A compact unit with high wattage might appear more powerful on paper, but if the food is cramped, the heating will be uneven, requiring more attention and manual intervention.

The inclusion of advanced features like air frying or convection, as seen in the GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection, or the broader cooking competencies implied by the Breville Compact Wave, further complicate the capacity equation. While these offer versatility, the internal space required for effective air circulation or even browning with convection can impose limitations on the overall microwaveable volume, particularly in a low-profile design. Ultimately, the buyer’s daily cooking habits—whether reheating leftovers, steaming vegetables, or preparing full meals—must dictate the true capacity need, not just the external dimensions.

For those prioritizing a tidy counter over maximum cooking volume, the LG Countertop Microwave, 0.9 cu. ft., Stainless Steel, presents a compelling, albeit small, option, while a family needing to reheat multiple plates will find more utility in a larger, yet less low-profile, model like the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 1,200-watt.

What to Consider for a Low Profile Countertop Microwave

Countertop clearance height

To guarantee your new low-profile microwave slides seamlessly under your kitchen cabinets, prioritize specific height dimensions. Look for models explicitly advertised as under 14 inches tall, as this is the standard clearance for most pre-fabricated cabinets. While some may claim to be low-profile, always cross-reference the precise height listed in the product specifications.

Reject any microwave that exceeds this 14-inch threshold. Opt for models with stated heights between 12.5 and 13.5 inches for maximum assurance of a perfect fit, ensuring no frustrating assembly or returns.

Interior capacity and wattage

When selecting a low-profile microwave, balance your cooking needs with the available interior capacity and wattage. For quick reheating of single servings or small side dishes, a smaller cubic footage, around 0.7 to 0.9 cubic feet, paired with 700-900 watts is sufficient and often more compact. If you regularly prepare meals for two or need to heat larger plates, aim for models with 0.9 to 1.1 cubic feet and a higher wattage of 900-1000 watts.

Choose the larger capacity and higher wattage option for greater versatility and faster cooking, making it suitable for a wider range of culinary tasks.

Which Should You Choose?

• If you need multi-functional cooking beyond basic reheating, choose a model with convection or air fry capabilities to expand your culinary options.
• If you have a small kitchen or limited counter space, opt for a compact model with a smaller cubic foot capacity.
• If fast and even cooking is your priority, look for higher wattage (1000W+) and features like Smart Inverter technology.
• If safety is a concern for households with children, select a microwave with a two-step child lock feature.

Quick Best Low Profile Countertop Microwave Buying Checklist

• Measure Your Space Check the exact height, width, and depth available on your countertop.
• Verify Cabinet Clearance Ensure the microwave’s height allows for comfortable use under upper cabinets.
• Assess Wattage Needs Higher wattage means faster cooking but may require more power.
• Consider Capacity Think about how much food you typically heat or cook at once.
• Review Preset Programs Look for convenient settings like popcorn, defrost, and beverage.
• Check Door Swing Direction Ensure the door opens without obstruction in your kitchen layout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Typical Height Range For A Low Profile Countertop Microwave?

Low profile countertop microwaves generally measure under 14 inches in height, designed specifically to fit beneath standard kitchen cabinets. This compact design ensures they don’t dominate counter space while still offering sufficient cooking power.

Are Low Profile Microwaves Less Powerful Than Standard Models?

Not necessarily. While their exterior dimensions are smaller, many low profile microwaves still offer comparable power levels, often ranging from 700 to 1000 watts. This allows for efficient cooking and reheating despite their compact footprint.

What Interior Capacity Should I Choose For A Low Profile Microwave?

Interior capacity for low profile models typically ranges from 0.7 to 1.1 cubic feet, which is suitable for most common reheating tasks and cooking smaller meals. Consider your typical usage to determine if this capacity meets your needs.

Do Low Profile Microwaves Have Advanced Features?

Yes, many low profile countertop microwaves come equipped with advanced features. These can include sensor cooking, convection cooking options, helpful preset programs for specific foods, and digital displays for precise control.

How Do I Ensure A Low Profile Microwave Fits My Kitchen?

To ensure a proper fit, accurately measure the available counter space, paying close attention to height under cabinets, width, and depth. Also, consider the door swing direction and ventilation requirements for optimal placement and function.

Final Words

Investing in the best low profile countertop microwave can significantly enhance your kitchen’s functionality without sacrificing precious counter space. These compact yet powerful appliances offer convenience and versatility for everyday reheating and cooking needs. Upgrade your kitchen with a smart, space-saving microwave solution today.