In the modern kitchen, countertop space is a precious commodity. For many, a compact microwave is not a luxury but a necessity, perfectly suited for apartments, dorm rooms, or offices.
However, a smaller footprint should never mean a compromise on performance or quality. The challenge lies in sifting through countless options to find a unit that delivers genuine value for your investment.
This guide is designed to help you navigate the market and confidently select the best small microwave for the money. We focus on the crucial intersection of affordability, durability, and efficiency to ensure you find an appliance that meets your daily needs without breaking your budget, ultimately helping you find the best small microwave for the money.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Small Microwave For The Money Compared
🏆 BEST OVERALL Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
- Compact size is ideal for limited counter space.
- Helpful features like a mute function and child safety lock.
- Multiple presets and simple digital controls make it easy to use.
- Ten adjustable power levels provide cooking flexibility.
🥈 2ND RUNNER UP TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
- Smart Sensor technology prevents over or undercooking.
- Convenient one-touch start and dedicated defrost options.
- Mute function to silence beeps and alerts.
- 10 power levels provide versatile cooking control.
� BEST VALUE TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven with 11 Power Levels
- Compact size is ideal for limited counter space.
- Advanced defrost function preserves food texture well.
- Mute function allows for silent operation.
- Multiple power levels and auto-menus offer cooking flexibility.
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
- Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
- User-friendly control panel with a large, easy-to-read digital display.
- Convenient one-touch presets and a 30-second express cook button.
- Includes a child safety lock for added security.
COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
- Enhanced safety with a two-step child lock feature.
- Mute function allows for silent operation.
- Convenient one-touch express and auto-cook presets.
- Energy-saving ECO mode helps reduce standby power usage.
Countertop Microwave Ovens 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700 Watts Microwave Oven With LED Lighting
- Compact size is ideal for small kitchens and limited counter space.
- Features 10 adjustable power levels for cooking flexibility.
- Includes convenient one-touch presets for common foods.
- Offers both time and weight defrost options.
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6" Carousel Turntable
- Modern aesthetic with stainless steel finish and updated LED lighting.
- User-friendly one-touch cooking options like '+30 seconds' and 'Express Cook'.
- Compact 0.9 cu. ft. size is ideal for smaller kitchens and limited counter space.
- Precise defrosting options with both weight and time settings.
BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
- Intuitive pre-programmed buttons for common foods.
- Large, easy-to-read LED display and control panel.
- Includes a child safety lock for enhanced safety.
- Versatile cooking options with 10 power levels.
FRIGIDAIRE EMW788RETRO 0.7 cu. ft. Retro Microwave
- Stylish retro design adds character to a kitchen.
- Compact 0.7 cubic foot size is ideal for small spaces.
- Sufficient 900-watt power for its class.
- Includes helpful speed and weight defrost functions.
Galanz GLCMKZ07BER07 Retro Countertop Microwave Oven with Auto Cook & Reheat
- Attractive and unique retro design.
- Compact size is perfect for small kitchens, dorms, or apartments.
- Features multiple convenient auto-cook and reheat presets.
- Simple one-touch functions like +30 seconds and weight/time defrost.
Detailed Reviews of the Best Small Microwave For The Money
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. - Compact size is ideal for limited counter space.
This 700W Chefman microwave is a solid, compact appliance suitable for smaller kitchens, dorms, or office breakrooms. It offers a good range of features for its size, including ten power levels and six convenient presets for common items like popcorn and beverages. The digital controls are straightforward, and the +30 seconds button is a handy addition for quick time adjustments.
I particularly appreciate the thoughtful features like the mute option to silence the beeps and the child safety lock, which provides peace of mind. While 700 watts means it might take a bit longer to cook or reheat food compared to more powerful models, it performs reliably for everyday tasks. The unit is easy to wipe down, and the glass turntable is dishwasher-safe, simplifying cleanup.
Its sleek black design allows it to blend in well with most kitchen decor, making it a functional and unobtrusive choice.
Pros
- Compact size is ideal for limited counter space.
- Helpful features like a mute function and child safety lock.
- Multiple presets and simple digital controls make it easy to use.
- Ten adjustable power levels provide cooking flexibility.
- Easy-to-clean exterior and dishwasher-safe turntable.
Cons
- At 700W, cooking and reheating may take longer than with higher-wattage microwaves.
- The smaller internal capacity may not fit large plates or casserole dishes.
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft - Smart Sensor technology prevents over or undercooking.
This 1000-watt microwave offers a solid range of features for everyday kitchen use. The standout function is the Smart Sensor, which automatically adjusts cooking time and power for reheating, taking the guesswork out of warming up leftovers. The results are generally even and consistent.
The 12.4-inch turntable is large enough for most dinner plates, and the interior capacity is adequate for a mid-sized unit. I found the one-touch start for 1-6 minutes and the dedicated defrost options (by time or weight) to be very convenient for quick tasks. The inclusion of a mute function is a thoughtful addition, perfect for households where appliance beeps can be disruptive.
While it has a standard set of presets, the combination of sensor cooking and 10 distinct power levels provides good flexibility for a variety of cooking needs. It performs reliably and feels well-equipped for its price point.
Pros
- Smart Sensor technology prevents over or undercooking.
- Convenient one-touch start and dedicated defrost options.
- Mute function to silence beeps and alerts.
- 10 power levels provide versatile cooking control.
- Spacious 12.4-inch turntable fits standard dinner plates.
Cons
- The external footprint is fairly large, requiring significant counter space.
- Input power of 1600W is relatively high for a 1000W output microwave.
TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven with 11 Power Levels - Compact size is ideal for limited counter space.
This countertop microwave offers a solid set of features within a very compact frame, making it a great fit for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or office breakrooms. With 700 watts of power, it handles basic tasks like reheating leftovers, making popcorn, and warming beverages effectively. The 11 distinct power levels and 6 auto-cook menus provide a good degree of control and convenience for everyday use.
What stands out are the thoughtful additions, such as the advanced 'ChefDefrost' feature, which works noticeably better than standard defrost cycles, and the ability to mute the end-of-cycle beeping. The one-touch start for 1-6 minutes is also very handy. While it's not the most powerful or spacious unit on the market, its performance is consistent for its size and wattage.
The user-friendly interface and practical functions make it a reliable appliance for daily, light-duty cooking and reheating needs.
Pros
- Compact size is ideal for limited counter space.
- Advanced defrost function preserves food texture well.
- Mute function allows for silent operation.
- Multiple power levels and auto-menus offer cooking flexibility.
- Simple one-touch start and easy-to-use controls.
- Includes useful features like a child lock and ECO mode.
Cons
- The 700W power output may result in slightly longer cooking times compared to higher-wattage models.
- Internal capacity is small and may not accommodate larger plates or dishes.
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door - Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
This 700-watt microwave is a solid, no-frills option for basic daily use, particularly well-suited for smaller living spaces. Its compact dimensions make it a great fit for apartments, dorm rooms, or office kitchens where counter space is at a premium. The control panel is intuitive, featuring a large, bright LED display and several pre-programmed buttons for common items like popcorn and beverages, which adds a layer of convenience.
The 30-second express cooking function is also a useful feature for quick reheating tasks. At 700 watts, it's not the most powerful unit on the market, so heating may take slightly longer than with higher-wattage models, but it performs reliably for its intended purpose. Standard features like the interior light, removable turntable for easy cleaning, and a child safety lock round out a very functional and practical appliance for individuals or small households.
Pros
- Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
- User-friendly control panel with a large, easy-to-read digital display.
- Convenient one-touch presets and a 30-second express cook button.
- Includes a child safety lock for added security.
- Push-button door release allows for easy access.
- Removable glass turntable simplifies cleaning.
Cons
- The 700-watt power level may result in longer cooking times compared to more powerful models.
- Its small interior capacity is not suitable for large dinner plates or family-sized dishes.
COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off - Enhanced safety with a two-step child lock feature.
This microwave offers a solid set of modern features that cater to everyday convenience and safety. The two-step child lock is a reassuring addition, providing peace of mind for families with young children. One of its standout functions is the ability to mute all beeps, a welcome feature for those who prefer a quieter kitchen environment, especially in the early mornings or late at night.
The one-touch express cooking for 1-6 minutes and the +30 seconds button work as expected for quick heating tasks. The pre-programmed settings for items like popcorn, potatoes, and beverages are quite handy, taking the guesswork out of cook times. The ECO mode is another thoughtful touch, helping to reduce standby power consumption over time.
Overall, it covers all the essential functions well, making it a reliable and user-friendly choice for daily use without being overly complicated.
Pros
- Enhanced safety with a two-step child lock feature.
- Mute function allows for silent operation.
- Convenient one-touch express and auto-cook presets.
- Energy-saving ECO mode helps reduce standby power usage.
- Flexible defrost options by either weight or time.
Cons
- The two-step child lock may require reading the manual to operate initially.
- Lacks more advanced features like sensor cooking or convection.
Countertop Microwave Ovens 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700 Watts Microwave Oven With LED Lighting - Compact size is ideal for small kitchens and limited counter space.
This 0.7 cu ft countertop microwave is a solid performer for its size. With 700 watts and 10 power levels, it handles daily tasks like reheating leftovers, defrosting meats, and making popcorn quite effectively. The six one-touch cooking options are convenient for quick jobs, and the presets for items like potatoes and pizza are fairly accurate.
The digital LED display is bright and easy to read, and the interior light is helpful. Its compact footprint is its biggest asset, making it perfect for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or office breakrooms. While it won't cook a family-sized meal, it's a reliable appliance for fundamental microwave needs.
The inclusion of a child safety lock is a thoughtful and practical feature for households with young children. The easy-to-clean interior also simplifies maintenance, which is a definite plus for a frequently used appliance.
Pros
- Compact size is ideal for small kitchens and limited counter space.
- Features 10 adjustable power levels for cooking flexibility.
- Includes convenient one-touch presets for common foods.
- Offers both time and weight defrost options.
- Child safety lock provides added security.
Cons
- The 700-watt power level may cook food slower than larger, more powerful models.
- The small 9.6-inch turntable may not accommodate larger dinner plates or cookware.
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6" Carousel Turntable - Modern aesthetic with stainless steel finish and updated LED lighting.
This 0.9 cu. ft. microwave offers a solid set of features in a compact, modern package.
With 900 watts of power and 10 distinct levels, it handles everyday tasks like reheating and defrosting effectively. The updated design elements, including a gray interior, white LED display, and bright interior lighting, make it easy to use and monitor your food. The 10.6-inch turntable is a standard size for this capacity, promoting even cooking.
For quick operations, the '+30 seconds' and 'Express Cook' buttons are very convenient, allowing for one-touch starts. The inclusion of both weight and time defrost adds a useful layer of precision for thawing frozen items. While it's not the largest or most powerful model on the market, its performance is reliable for its size, making it a well-rounded appliance for daily use in smaller kitchens or for individuals and couples.
Pros
- Modern aesthetic with stainless steel finish and updated LED lighting.
- User-friendly one-touch cooking options like '+30 seconds' and 'Express Cook'.
- Compact 0.9 cu. ft. size is ideal for smaller kitchens and limited counter space.
- Precise defrosting options with both weight and time settings.
- Carousel turntable ensures even heating for most standard-sized plates.
- Clear and easy-to-read white LED display.
Cons
- The 900-watt power level is adequate but may cook or heat slightly slower than higher-wattage models.
- Its compact capacity might not be suitable for large families or oversized cookware.
BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door - Intuitive pre-programmed buttons for common foods.
This 900-watt microwave offers a solid range of features for everyday kitchen needs. The pre-programmed buttons for items like popcorn, potatoes, and beverages are quite convenient, removing the guesswork for common tasks. It provides good flexibility with 10 distinct power settings and a useful 30-second express cooking function for quick heating.
The control panel is well-designed with a large, bright LED display that is easy to read, and the push-button door release operates smoothly. The 10.6-inch turntable is a standard size, accommodating most dinner plates, and can be removed for cleaning. While 900 watts is perfectly adequate for most reheating and defrosting jobs, it may take slightly longer than higher-wattage models.
The inclusion of a child safety lock is a thoughtful feature for households with small children, making it a well-rounded and practical appliance for general use.
Pros
- Intuitive pre-programmed buttons for common foods.
- Large, easy-to-read LED display and control panel.
- Includes a child safety lock for enhanced safety.
- Versatile cooking options with 10 power levels.
- Removable turntable is a standard size and is easy to clean.
- Convenient 30-second express cook option.
Cons
- At 900 watts, it may heat food slightly slower than more powerful models.
- The internal capacity may not accommodate very large casserole dishes.
FRIGIDAIRE EMW788RETRO 0.7 cu. ft. Retro Microwave - Stylish retro design adds character to a kitchen.
This retro microwave offers a unique aesthetic that stands out from typical modern appliances. At 0.7 cubic feet and 900 watts, it's a compact yet reasonably powerful unit that is well-suited for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or an office setting. The main appeal is its design, featuring a classic black finish and an oversized rotary knob that is both functional and a charming stylistic touch.
Functionally, it handles the basics well, with enough power for reheating and defrosting. The speed and weight defrost options are convenient additions, and the child safety lock is a thoughtful feature for households with children. While its compact size is excellent for saving counter space, be aware that it will not accommodate larger dinner plates or bulky containers.
It's a solid performer for everyday, light-duty use where style is a priority.
Pros
- Stylish retro design adds character to a kitchen.
- Compact 0.7 cubic foot size is ideal for small spaces.
- Sufficient 900-watt power for its class.
- Includes helpful speed and weight defrost functions.
- Features a child safety lock for peace of mind.
Cons
- Limited interior capacity will not fit large plates or cookware.
- The prominent retro style may not suit all kitchen decors.
Galanz GLCMKZ07BER07 Retro Countertop Microwave Oven with Auto Cook & Reheat - Attractive and unique retro design.
This Galanz microwave is a stylish and functional appliance, particularly well-suited for its target audience. The retro design is its most prominent feature and certainly adds a unique touch to a kitchen. For everyday tasks like reheating leftovers, defrosting small items, and making popcorn, it performs reliably.
The variety of auto-cook and auto-reheat programs is a convenient addition, taking some of the guesswork out of cook times. The +30 seconds button is always a useful feature for quick additions. Its compact footprint is a major advantage for tight spaces like dorms or small apartments.
However, the small interior capacity and turntable size mean you need to be mindful of your dishware. It handles standard plates and bowls fine, but larger or irregularly shaped containers will not fit. Overall, it's a solid choice for basic microwave needs where space and aesthetics are primary considerations.
Pros
- Attractive and unique retro design.
- Compact size is perfect for small kitchens, dorms, or apartments.
- Features multiple convenient auto-cook and reheat presets.
- Simple one-touch functions like +30 seconds and weight/time defrost.
- Removable turntable makes cleaning straightforward.
Cons
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and small 9.6" turntable cannot accommodate large dinner plates or bulky cookware.
- May not be powerful enough for heavy-duty cooking tasks.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Small Microwave For The Money
Size and Capacity
The primary consideration when shopping for a small microwave is its footprint. Look for models with a capacity between 0.7 and 0.9 cubic feet, as these are specifically designed for limited counter space in small kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices. While compact, ensure the interior turntable, typically around 10 to 12 inches, is large enough to accommodate a standard dinner plate. Products like the Chefman and BLACK+DECKER models are highlighted for their ideal compact size.
Power and Cooking Flexibility
Power, measured in watts, determines how quickly and evenly your food cooks. For a compact model, 700 to 900 watts is sufficient for most reheating and cooking tasks. To get the most out of your appliance, look for one with multiple adjustable power levels. Most models listed, such as the TOSHIBA and Chefman ovens, offer ten distinct levels, giving you precise control to avoid overcooking delicate foods or undercooking dense items, a key factor when choosing the best small microwave for the money.
Ease of Use and Presets
A user-friendly interface is crucial for daily convenience. Look for microwaves with simple digital controls, large and easy-to-read LED displays, and one-touch cooking options. Features like a "+30 seconds" or "Express Cook" button, found on SHARP and BLACK+DECKER models, allow for quick starts. Pre-programmed buttons or auto-menus for common foods like popcorn, pizza, and potatoes eliminate guesswork and streamline the cooking process, making your daily routine more efficient.
Key Convenience and Safety Features
Modern microwaves offer features that go beyond basic heating. A mute function, available on the TOSHIBA and COMFEE' models, is excellent for silencing beeps and alerts. For households with children, a child safety lock is an essential security feature. Other convenient additions include energy-saving ECO modes to reduce standby power usage and push-button doors for easy, one-handed access. Considering these features will help you find the best small microwave for the money.
Cleaning and Design
Maintaining your microwave should be simple. A removable glass turntable that is dishwasher-safe is a significant advantage, as seen in the Chefman model. An easy-to-clean exterior, like stainless steel, also helps keep the appliance looking its best. For those who value aesthetics, consider a model with a unique look. The FRIGIDAIRE and Galanz retro designs offer a stylish alternative to standard appliances, proving you don't have to sacrifice form for function.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Small Microwave For The Money
What size is considered a small microwave?
When searching for the best small microwave for the money, a "small" or "compact" model typically has an internal capacity ranging from 0.7 to 0.9 cubic feet. These dimensions are ideal for apartments, dorm rooms, offices, or any kitchen with limited counter space. It's also important to check the turntable diameter, which is usually around 10 inches in these models, to ensure it can still fit a standard-sized dinner plate for convenient everyday use.
Are there small microwaves with a mute function?
Yes, a mute function is an increasingly common and popular feature in modern small microwaves. This allows you to silence the beeps and alerts that sound when cooking is complete or a button is pressed. This is particularly useful in shared living spaces, offices, or for late-night use without disturbing others
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. this is a versatile and well-designed compact microwave that packs many useful features into a small footprint. it's an excellent choice for individuals, students, or anyone needing a basic, reliable unit for a small space, as long as you don't mind slightly longer cooking times.