Detailed Reviews of the Best Compact Small Microwave

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. - Compact design is ideal for limited counter space.

This Chefman 700W microwave is a solid choice for small spaces like apartments, dorm rooms, or office kitchens. Its compact footprint doesn't take up much counter space, but it's packed with useful features. The digital controls are straightforward, offering six common presets, quick-minute keys, and a handy +30 seconds button.

I particularly appreciate the thoughtful additions like the mute function to silence the beeps and the memory setting for frequently used cycles. While 700 watts is on the lower end of the power spectrum, it handles reheating, defrosting, and cooking smaller items effectively. The 10 power levels provide good flexibility for tasks like melting butter without splattering.

The child lock is a reassuring safety feature, and the easy-to-clean exterior and dishwasher-safe turntable make maintenance simple. It performs its core functions well and offers more convenience than many other basic models in its class.

Pros

• Compact design is ideal for limited counter space.
• User-friendly controls with presets and one-touch options.
• Includes convenient features like a mute function and memory setting.
• Child safety lock for the control panel enhances security.
• Easy to clean with a wipeable exterior and dishwasher-safe turntable.
• Multiple power levels for customized cooking.

Cons

• The 700W power level may cook food more slowly than higher-wattage models.
• Its smaller internal capacity may not fit oversized plates or large cookware.

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TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven with 11 Power Levels - Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, apartments, or dorms.

This compact microwave is a solid option for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or office breakrooms. With 700 watts of power, it effectively handles everyday tasks like reheating leftovers, warming beverages, and preparing simple meals. The 11 distinct power levels provide good control for more delicate jobs, preventing overcooking.

A notable feature is the ChefDefrost function, which is designed to thaw food faster while maintaining its texture. The six pre-programmed auto menus for common items like popcorn and potatoes are a convenient shortcut. The control panel is straightforward, with one-touch start options for 1-6 minutes and a useful kitchen timer.

Thoughtful additions like the ability to mute the end-of-cycle beep and the child safety lock add to its overall utility. While it may not be powerful enough for large families or complex cooking, its feature set and small footprint make it a practical choice for basic needs.

Pros

• Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, apartments, or dorms.
• Mute function allows for silent operation without beeping.
• Versatile cooking with 11 power levels and 6 auto-cook menus.
• User-friendly interface includes one-touch start buttons.
• Advanced defrost feature aims to preserve food texture.
• Includes a child safety lock for added security.

Cons

• At 700W, cooking times may be longer than higher-wattage models.
• The small internal capacity is best suited for smaller plates and dishes.

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COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off - Multiple one-touch auto-cook presets for common foods.

This microwave provides a solid range of features for everyday use. The control panel is intuitive and easy to read thanks to the bright digital display, and the 10-inch turntable is adequate for standard dinner plates. The pre-programmed settings for items like popcorn, pizza, and frozen vegetables are convenient and work as expected.

I found the one-touch express cooking and the +30 seconds button particularly useful for quick reheating. The inclusion of both time and weight defrost adds welcome versatility. Two standout features are the child safety lock, which is essential for families, and the mute function that silences the end-of-cycle beeps.

The ECO mode is also a nice touch for those conscious of energy consumption. Overall, it's a functional appliance that reliably covers all the necessary bases with a few thoughtful extras.

Pros

• Multiple one-touch auto-cook presets for common foods.
• Convenient express cook and +30 seconds functions for quick operation.
• Includes a child safety lock and a mute/silent mode for the beeps.
• Energy-saving ECO mode helps reduce standby power consumption.
• Dual defrost settings offer flexibility for thawing by time or weight.
• Clear digital display and an easy-to-read control panel.

Cons

• The 10-inch turntable may be too small for larger casserole dishes or family-sized plates.
• Lacks advanced features like sensor cooking or convection capabilities.

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Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven - Significantly quieter operation with a soft-close door.

The Breville Compact Wave Soft Close Microwave is a well-designed appliance that excels in user-focused features. Its most notable quality is the quiet operation, thanks to a soft-close door that eliminates the usual slamming sound. The 0.9 cu.ft (25L) capacity is suitable for smaller kitchens, apartments, or dorm rooms, handling standard dinner plates and bowls with ease.

The 900-watt power is adequate for everyday tasks like reheating and defrosting. The pre-programmed shortcuts for popcorn, beverages, and specific food items are genuinely convenient and work as expected. The reheat and defrost functions are more gentle than on many standard microwaves, helping to heat food evenly without drying it out.

Thoughtful additions like the mute button and child lock feature make it a versatile and considerate choice for a variety of households. It's a solid performer that prioritizes a quieter and more pleasant user experience over raw power or massive capacity.

Pros

• Significantly quieter operation with a soft-close door.
• Compact footprint is ideal for kitchens with limited counter space.
• Intuitive one-touch shortcuts and a food menu for common tasks.
• Effective reheat and defrost functions prevent overcooking.
• Thoughtful features like a child lock and mute button.

Cons

• The 900-watt power may result in slightly longer cooking times compared to more powerful models.
• Its compact capacity may not accommodate very large casserole dishes or family-sized meals.

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BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door - Compact footprint is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.

This 700-watt microwave is a solid option for basic, everyday use, particularly for those with limited space. Its compact dimensions make it a great fit for small apartments, dorm rooms, or office kitchens. The control panel is user-friendly, featuring a large LED display that is easy to read, and several pre-programmed buttons for common items like popcorn and potatoes, which add a layer of convenience.

The 30-second express cooking function is very handy for quick reheating. While the 700-watt power level is on the lower side—meaning it may take slightly longer to heat food thoroughly compared to more powerful units—it performs its core functions reliably. The 10-inch turntable is sufficient for a standard dinner plate, and the push-button door release works smoothly.

The inclusion of a child safety lock is a thoughtful feature for households with small children.

Pros

• Compact footprint is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
• Intuitive control panel with a large, clear LED display.
• Convenient pre-programmed settings for common food items.
• Handy 30-second express cooking function.
• Includes a child safety lock for added security.

Cons

• At 700 watts, it may take longer to cook or heat food compared to more powerful models.
• The smaller interior capacity will not accommodate very large dishes or cookware.

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Nostalgia Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven - Stylish retro design adds a unique flair to kitchen decor.

This retro-style microwave is a solid choice for basic heating needs, especially if kitchen aesthetics are a priority. At 0.7 cubic feet and 700 watts, it's best suited for smaller tasks like reheating leftovers, defrosting single portions, or making popcorn. It handles these jobs well, and the rotating glass carousel helps ensure food is heated evenly without cold spots.

The 12 pre-programmed settings are a convenient touch, taking the guesswork out of cooking common items like potatoes and pizza. The digital display is bright and easy to read. While it won't replace a high-powered, larger unit for a big family, its performance is reliable for its size.

The chrome handle and accents give it a unique look that stands out on the countertop. It’s a functional appliance that successfully blends style with everyday utility for a small household or dorm room.

Pros

• Stylish retro design adds a unique flair to kitchen decor.
• Compact size is perfect for small apartments, dorms, or limited counter space.
• Includes 12 pre-programmed settings for popular food items.
• Rotating glass carousel promotes even cooking.
• Clear, easy-to-read LED display and digital clock.

Cons

• The 700-watt power level may result in longer cooking times compared to more powerful models.
• Its small 0.7 cubic foot capacity is not ideal for large plates or family-sized dishes.

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Magic Chef Compact Countertop Microwave Oven - Compact design is ideal for small spaces.

This Magic Chef countertop microwave is a solid, no-frills appliance that performs its core functions well. Its compact size makes it a great fit for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or office breakrooms where counter space is at a premium. The 10 power levels offer good flexibility for different cooking needs, and the auto-defrost works as expected.

The controls are intuitive, with the LED display being clear and easy to read. I found the 30-second express button and the various auto-cook settings for things like popcorn and baked potatoes to be genuinely convenient for daily use. The rotating glass turntable ensures that food is heated evenly, preventing cold spots.

While it doesn't have advanced features, it reliably handles all the essential tasks, from reheating leftovers to preparing simple meals, making it a practical choice for basic microwave needs.

Pros

• Compact design is ideal for small spaces.
• User-friendly controls with a handy 30-second express cook function.
• Multiple auto-cook presets simplify common tasks.
• Glass turntable promotes even heating and cooking.
• Includes a child safety lock for added security.

Cons

• The smaller interior capacity may not fit large dishes or casserole pans.
• Lacks advanced features like sensor cooking or convection capabilities.

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Countertop Microwave Ovens 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700 Watts Microwave Oven With LED Lighting - Compact size is perfect for small kitchens or dorms.

This 0.7 cu ft countertop microwave is a solid option for those with limited space, such as in a dorm room, small apartment, or office breakroom. With 700 watts of power and 10 adjustable levels, it handles everyday tasks like reheating leftovers, defrosting meats, and making popcorn effectively. The six one-touch cooking presets for items like pizza and potatoes are a convenient shortcut, and the defrost-by-weight or time feature adds to its versatility.

The 9.6" glass turntable is adequate for standard dinner plates. While it may not be the fastest or most powerful microwave on the market, its performance is consistent for its size. The LED display is easy to read, and the inclusion of a child safety lock is a thoughtful touch.

Overall, it's a practical and straightforward appliance that delivers on its core functions without any unnecessary frills.

Pros

• Compact size is perfect for small kitchens or dorms.
• Multiple one-touch presets for quick cooking.
• 10 power levels provide cooking flexibility.
• Includes a child safety lock for added security.
• Straightforward controls and an easy-to-read display.

Cons

• Lower 700-watt power may result in slightly longer cooking times.
• The 9.6" turntable may not accommodate larger plates or casserole dishes.

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Nostalgia Retro Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu Ft - Compact footprint is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.

This 0.7 cu. ft. microwave is a solid choice for those with limited counter space, such as in a dorm room, small apartment, or office kitchen.

The 700-watt power output is sufficient for most daily tasks like reheating leftovers, making popcorn, or defrosting small items, though it may take slightly longer than higher-wattage models. The rotating glass turntable does a good job of ensuring food is heated evenly, which is a key feature for consistent results. I found the eight auto-cook programs to be quite convenient for common foods, taking the guesswork out of setting times.

The express cook function and ten adjustable power levels also add a layer of useful customization, whether you need a quick reheat or a gentle defrost. It’s a straightforward and functional appliance that handles the essentials well without taking up too much room.

Pros

• Compact footprint is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
• Features 8 auto-cook programs and express cooking for convenience.
• Ten adjustable power levels offer precise cooking control.
• Rotating turntable helps to heat food evenly.

Cons

• The 700-watt power may result in slightly longer cooking times compared to more powerful models.
• Its small 0.7 cu. ft. capacity may not accommodate larger plates or dishes.

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BLACK+DECKER Compact Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700-Watts with LED Lighting - Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.

This Black+Decker microwave is a solid, compact appliance well-suited for smaller living spaces like apartments, dorm rooms, or office breakrooms. With 0.7 cubic feet of space and a 10-inch turntable, it handles standard plates and bowls for reheating and simple cooking tasks. The 700 watts of power are adequate for most needs, though it may take slightly longer than higher-wattage models.

Its user-friendly interface is a highlight, featuring one-touch express cooking for 1-6 minutes, a +30 second button, and six useful presets for common items like popcorn and pizza. The 10 distinct power levels and defrost options provide good cooking flexibility. The unit also includes modern conveniences like a clear LED display, interior light, and a child safety lock, all packaged in a clean, handleless white design.

It performs its core functions reliably and is a great fit for its intended purpose.

Pros

• Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
• Intuitive one-touch controls and presets make for quick and easy operation.
• Offers versatile cooking with 10 adjustable power levels.
• Sleek, handleless design looks modern and is easy to clean.
• Includes a child safety lock for added security.

Cons

• At 700 watts, cooking and reheating may take longer than more powerful microwaves.
• The small interior capacity cannot accommodate large dinner plates or casserole dishes.

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Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Compact Small Microwave

Size and Footprint

The primary advantage of a compact microwave is its size. Look for models with a small footprint, typically around 0.7 cubic feet, which are specifically designed for limited counter space in apartments, dorm rooms, small kitchens, or offices. While external dimensions are key for fitting into your space, also consider the internal capacity to ensure it can accommodate your typical dishware. A compact design doesn't have to mean sacrificing functionality for everyday heating and cooking tasks.

Power Levels and Cooking Functions

Versatility is crucial, even in a small appliance. The best compact small microwave models offer multiple power levels—often 10 or 11—giving you precise control to avoid overcooking or underheating. Look for a variety of pre-programmed auto-cook menus for common items like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza. Advanced features like dual defrost settings (by time or weight) and effective reheat functions can significantly enhance performance by preserving food texture and ensuring even results.

User-Friendly Features

Convenience is paramount for a daily-use appliance. Seek out models with intuitive controls, clear LED displays, and one-touch options. Features like a "+30 seconds" or "express cook" button allow for quick and simple operation. Additionally, many top models include a mute function to silence beeps and a child safety lock for the control panel, which adds a layer of security and peace in the household.

Design and Maintenance

A microwave should be easy to clean and complement your kitchen decor. Many compact models feature wipeable exteriors and sleek, modern looks, such as handleless push-button doors. For easier maintenance, check for a removable glass turntable that is dishwasher-safe. If aesthetics are important, you can also find unique options, like the Nostalgia models, which offer a stylish retro design to add character to your countertop.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Compact Small Microwave

What are the most important features to look for in a small microwave?

When searching for the best compact small microwave, prioritize features that maximize convenience and performance in a small package. Key elements include multiple power levels for cooking flexibility, one-touch presets for common foods, and an express cook button for quick heating. Also, consider valuable additions like a child safety lock for security, a mute function for silent operation, and a clear, easy-to-read digital display. These features ensure the appliance

Conclusion: The Final Verdict

The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. this is a feature-rich compact microwave that offers excellent value. it's highly recommended for students, individuals, or anyone needing a reliable unit for a small kitchen who prioritizes convenient features over raw cooking speed.