Ever find yourself staring at a mountain of microwave options, feeling completely overwhelmed? You’re not alone! Choosing a small countertop microwave can feel like a mission. You want something that heats your leftovers perfectly, pops your popcorn without burning it, and fits neatly on your kitchen counter. But with so many sizes, brands, and features, it’s easy to get lost.
That’s where we come in. We understand the frustration of needing a quick meal solution without sacrificing precious counter space. You’re looking for a microwave that’s powerful enough for your needs but small enough to be a convenient addition, not a bulky eyesore. The struggle is real when you’re trying to balance performance, size, and budget.
In this post, we’ll break down what really matters when picking a small countertop microwave. We’ll explore the key features to look for, discuss different sizes and capacities, and even share some tips for finding the best value. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to confidently choose the perfect little microwave that fits your kitchen and your lifestyle. Let’s get cooking!
Our Top 5 Small Countertop Microwave Oven Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Small Countertop Microwave Oven Detailed Reviews
1. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 9.1/10
Meet the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven, a compact powerhouse designed for your busy life. This sleek black microwave brings convenience and speed to your kitchen. Its 0.7 cubic feet capacity is just right for dorm rooms, small apartments, or as an extra microwave in a larger home. You can cook popcorn, heat up leftovers, or make a quick cup of tea with ease thanks to its user-friendly features.
What We Like:
- It cooks food extra quickly. You can pick from six popular presets like popcorn, pizza, and veggies. Or, just press the number keys to set the cooking time.
- It has 10 power levels, from low to high. This means you can melt butter gently or cook food fast.
- The digital controls are easy to use. You can set the time and power level. The +30 seconds button is handy for a little extra cooking time.
- You can save your favorite cooking settings. This makes starting your go-to meals a one-touch job.
- Safety is a priority with a child safety lock. It keeps the door from opening by accident. You can also lock the control panel.
- You can turn off the annoying beeps with the mute option. This is great if you need to stay quiet.
- Its modern black design looks good in any kitchen. It’s compact and fits well with other appliances.
- Cleaning is simple. The exterior wipes clean easily. The glass turntable is also dishwasher safe.
- It’s cETL approved and has advanced safety features. Chefman also provides a 1-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic feet capacity might be too small for larger families or for cooking big meals.
- While it has many presets, some users might want more specialized cooking options.
This Chefman microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and easy-to-use appliance. It offers a good balance of features and convenience for everyday kitchen tasks.
2. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
Rating: 9.2/10
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens is a powerful and smart kitchen appliance. It offers 1000 watts of cooking power and a spacious 1.2 cubic feet interior. This microwave is designed to make your cooking easier with its smart features and user-friendly controls.
What We Like:
- The Smart Humidity Sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power. This means your food will be cooked perfectly every time, not too dry or too soggy.
- It comes with 6 preset menus for popular foods like pizza and vegetables. This saves you time and guesswork.
- You have 10 different power levels to choose from. This gives you control for all your cooking needs, from defrosting to boiling.
- The “Easy Defrost” feature lets you defrost food by weight or time. It also has a “One Touch Start” for quick cooking for up to 6 minutes.
- The Mute Mode is a great feature. You can turn off the annoying buzzer sound by pressing the “8” button for a few seconds.
- The ECO Mode helps save energy when the microwave is not in use.
- The interior is designed for easy cleaning.
- The 12.4-inch glass turntable is large and removable, fitting bigger dishes.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has 6 preset menus, some users might want more options for specific dishes.
- The external dimensions are fairly standard, but those with very limited counter space might want to double-check measurements.
This Toshiba microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering smart cooking technology and convenient features.
3. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 9.0/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a handy kitchen helper. It’s compact at 0.7 cubic feet, making it great for smaller kitchens or dorm rooms. This microwave heats food quickly with 700 watts of power. Its stainless steel finish looks nice on any countertop.
What We Like:
- It has special buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, and potatoes.
- You can cook things faster with the 30-second express cook button.
- The door opens easily with a push button.
- It has a safety lock to keep little hands out.
- The glass turntable is removable for easy cleaning.
- The digital display is large and simple to read.
What Could Be Improved:
- The power is 700 watts, which might be slower for some tasks than more powerful microwaves.
- It only has one year of warranty.
This microwave is a good option for simple heating and cooking needs. It’s user-friendly and offers convenient features.
4. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 9.0/10
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) is a compact and stylish stainless steel microwave oven that’s ideal for smaller living spaces. It offers a good balance of features for everyday cooking needs, making it a convenient addition to apartments, dorm rooms, or even a small office kitchen.
What We Like:
- Powerful Cooking: With 900 watts of microwave output power, it heats and cooks food quickly and efficiently.
- Smart Presets: The 6 auto menus take the guesswork out of cooking popular items like popcorn and potatoes.
- Quiet Operation: The mute function is a lifesaver for late-night snacks or early morning meals, so you won’t disturb others.
- Safety First: The two-step child lock is a crucial feature that gives parents peace of mind.
- Flexible Power: 11 different power levels let you control your cooking precisely, from gentle defrosting to rapid boiling.
- Easy to Use: The one-touch start and easy defrost options simplify operation.
- Spacious Interior: The 0.9 cu ft capacity and 10.6-inch removable turntable fit most common dishes.
- Bright Interior: LED lighting makes it easy to see your food while it’s cooking.
What Could Be Improved:
- Input Power: While output is 900W, the input power is 1400W, which is something to consider for energy-conscious users.
- Child Lock Steps: The instructions for engaging the child lock require following specific steps, which might not be immediately intuitive.
This TOSHIBA microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and feature-rich small appliance. Its user-friendly design and safety features make it a practical and welcome addition to any compact kitchen.
5. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 8.7/10
The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a stylish and practical addition to any kitchen. Its compact 0.7 cu ft size is ideal for smaller spaces, while its sleek black finish looks great on any countertop. This microwave makes cooking and reheating a breeze with its user-friendly features.
What We Like:
- The mute function is a game-changer, letting you cook without annoying beeps.
- ECO Mode significantly saves energy by reducing standby power.
- One-touch express cooking buttons are super convenient for quick meals.
- Pre-set auto-cook functions for popcorn, potatoes, and more simplify meal prep.
- The child safety lock offers peace of mind for families.
- The bright digital display and easy-to-read panel make operation simple.
- The 10-inch glass turntable fits most standard dishes and rotates smoothly.
- Two defrost settings (by weight or time) give you flexibility.
- It includes a kitchen timer and clock for added utility.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu ft capacity might be too small for larger families or big meals.
- A slightly longer warranty than one year could offer more long-term security.
This COMFEE microwave offers a great blend of convenience and energy efficiency. It’s an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable and easy-to-use countertop microwave.
Your Guide to the Perfect Small Countertop Microwave
Finding the right small countertop microwave can make your kitchen life easier. These handy appliances heat up leftovers, pop popcorn, and even cook simple meals. This guide will help you choose the best one for your needs.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a small microwave, keep these features in mind:
- Wattage: This tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Look for microwaves with at least 700 watts for good performance. Some go up to 1200 watts, which is super fast.
- Capacity: This is how much food can fit inside. Small microwaves usually range from 0.5 to 1.0 cubic feet. A 0.7 cubic foot microwave is a good size for a single person or a small family. It can fit a standard dinner plate.
- Turntable: A turntable spins your food. This helps it cook evenly. Most small microwaves have one. Make sure it’s easy to clean. Some removable turntables are dishwasher safe.
- Presets and Cooking Functions: Many microwaves have buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or potatoes. Some also have defrost settings. These can save you time and guesswork.
- Control Panel: A simple and easy-to-understand control panel is a big plus. Buttons should be clearly labeled. Digital displays are helpful for seeing the cooking time.
2. Important Materials
The materials used in a microwave affect its durability and how it looks.
- Exterior: Most small microwaves have a metal or plastic exterior. Stainless steel looks modern and is very durable. Plastic exteriors are lighter and often cheaper.
- Interior: The inside of the microwave is usually made of painted metal or stainless steel. Stainless steel interiors are easier to clean and more resistant to scratches and stains. Some have ceramic enamel interiors, which are also very easy to wipe clean.
- Door: The door has a glass window so you can see your food. This glass is strong and heat-resistant. The door handle should feel sturdy.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a microwave better or not so good.
- Build Quality: A well-built microwave feels solid. The door should close tightly. Buttons should not feel loose. A sturdy build means it will last longer.
- Ease of Cleaning: Nobody likes scrubbing a dirty microwave. Look for smooth interior surfaces. Removable turntables that you can put in the dishwasher are a lifesaver. Exterior surfaces that wipe clean easily are also important.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves are louder than others. If you have an open kitchen or are sensitive to noise, look for reviews that mention how quiet the microwave is.
- Even Heating: The best microwaves heat food evenly. A good turntable and proper wattage help with this. If your food is always hotter in some spots and colder in others, the microwave might not be of high quality.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your microwave affects which features matter most.
- For Dorm Rooms or Small Apartments: A compact size and simple controls are perfect. You might only need it to heat up instant noodles or leftovers.
- For Quick Lunches: If you often make quick meals or reheat soup, a microwave with good preset buttons will be helpful.
- For Busy Families: A slightly larger capacity and powerful wattage can help you heat up meals faster for everyone. Easy cleaning is also a big plus when you have a busy household.
- For Basic Cooking: If you plan to cook more than just reheating, look for features like multi-stage cooking or sensor cooking. Sensor cooking automatically adjusts the cooking time and power.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a good wattage for a small countertop microwave?
A: For most tasks, 700 to 1000 watts is a good range. Higher wattage means faster cooking.
Q: How much space do I need for a small microwave?
A: Measure your counter space. Small microwaves are typically less than 18 inches wide and 14 inches deep.
Q: Is a turntable really necessary?
A: Yes, a turntable helps your food cook more evenly. It spins the food as it heats.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my microwave?
A: Wipe the inside with a damp cloth. For tough spots, heat a bowl of water with lemon juice for a few minutes, then wipe clean.
Q: What does “cubic feet” mean for microwave size?
A: Cubic feet tells you the inside volume of the microwave. A larger number means more space for food.
Q: Can I put metal in the microwave?
A: No, never put metal in a microwave. It can cause sparks and damage the appliance.
Q: What are “preset buttons”?
A: Preset buttons are shortcuts for cooking common foods like popcorn or pizza. You just press the button.
Q: How long do small countertop microwaves usually last?
A: With good care, a small microwave can last 5 to 10 years.
Q: Are stainless steel interiors better than painted ones?
A: Stainless steel interiors are generally more durable and easier to clean than painted ones.
Q: What if my microwave isn’t heating food properly?
A: Check that the door is closed all the way. Make sure you are using the correct power level and cooking time. If it still doesn’t work, it might need repair.
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.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!