Ever feel like your kitchen counters are staging a rebellion against your appliances? There’s a hero for that tiny, cluttered space, and it’s the humble compact microwave oven. These little powerhouses are perfect for small apartments, dorm rooms, or just freeing up precious real estate in a busy kitchen. They promise the same quick-heating convenience without the bulky footprint, but do they actually deliver on performance? We’ve all wondered if going smaller means sacrificing to much power or features.
That’s exactly what we set out to discover. In this review, we’re putting a top-rated model through its paces—from reheating leftovers to popping popcorn and even attempting a mug cake. We’ll look at how it handles everyday tasks, its ease of use, and whether it truly earns it’s spot on your counter. Let’s see if this compact wonder is the space-saving solution you’ve been looking for.
Product Comparison Table: 10 Best Compact Microwave Oven
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TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with…
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9.6 |
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BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door,…
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9.4 |
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BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry, Combi, Bake,…
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9.3 |
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Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts…
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9.1 |
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COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO…
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9.0 |
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TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus,…
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8.8 |
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TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus,…
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8.7 |
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Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700…
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8.5 |
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Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700…
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8.4 |
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Nostalgia Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven – 0.7 Cu….
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8.2 |
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Quick Review For Top 10 Compact Microwave Oven
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor, 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior, 1000W, Silver
The Toshiba EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact, 1.2 cubic foot appliance designed to simplify your daily cooking with a suite of thoughtful, automated features. Its 1000-watt cooking power provides the speed you need for quick meals, while its relatively compact external footprint (20.6″ W x 16.0″ D x 11.8″ H) makes it a versatile fit for most kitchen counters.
Inside, the cavity offers practical space, accomodated by a 12.4-inch removable glass turntable for even heating and easier cleaning. A standout feature is the integrated Smart Humidity Sensor. This technology takes the guesswork out of cooking by detecting the moisture vapor released from your food. It automatically adjusts the cooking time and power level, aiming to prevent the common pitfalls of overcooked, dried-out edges or undercooked centers.
It’s particularly handy for reheating leftovers more evenly, helping you achieve results closer to when the dish was first made. This sensor works in tandem with the 12 auto menus, which include settings for items like pizza, vegetables, and a dedicated sensor reheat function, providing a good starting point for consistent outcomes. For times when you prefer manual control, the microwave offers 10 distinct power levels.
This range allows for precise culinary adjustments, wether you’re gently melting butter, simmering a sauce, or deodorizing a sponge. The defrost function is equally flexible, letting you thaw frozen food either by weight or by time, which can help preserve texture better than simply microwaving on high.
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a compact and user-friendly appliance designed to simplify your daily cooking and reheating tasks. With its 0.7 cubic foot capacity and 700 watts of power, it offers a practical solution for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, offices, or as a secondary oven without taking up to much counter space. Its stainless steel finish provides a clean, modern look that fits with most decors.
One of the key aspects of this microwave is its straightforward operation. The large LED digital display and clearly labeled control panel make it easy to see your settings and time remaining. For common foods, you can skip the guesswork entirely thanks to the pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, a beverage, and a dinner plate. These one-touch options help ensure you get consistent results for those everyday items.
Plus, with 10 adjustable power settings, you have the flexibility to defrost, simmer, or reheat with more precision than a basic model. Convenience and safety are thoughtfully integrated. The 30-second Express Cooking button lets you quickly add time, and the separate kitchen timer function is handy for other tasks. The push-button door release offers smooth access compared to a mechanical handle, and the interior light lets you monitor your food’s progress.
For households with young children, the safety lock feature provides added peace of mind. Cleaning is also simple, thanks to the removable 10-inch glass turntable that can be washed seperately. This model is built with reliability in mind, being UL approved and backed by a one-year limited warranty. Its compact dimensions of 17.3 inches wide, 13.0 inches deep, and 10.2 inches high mean it can fit into tighter spaces while still offering a usable interior cavity.
BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry, Combi, Bake, Roast, and Convection Cooking, 0.9 cu. ft. Countertop Microwave, Stainless Steel, 900 Watts, Child-Lock, ES9P032NA
The BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven, model ES9P032NA, is designed to be a versatile and compact solution for your kitchen counter. If you’re short on space but don’t want to compromise on cooking options, this 0.9 cubic foot appliance aims to consolidate several functions into one sleek stainless steel unit. It’s not just a microwave; it incorporates air frying, baking, roasting, and combi cooking, which combines grill and convection modes.
This means you can use it for a wider variety of tasks, from reheating leftovers to crisping up frozen snacks or even baking a small batch of cookies, all without needing multiple large appliances taking up precious counter real estate. With 900 watts of power, it handles standard microwaving efficiently.
It includes a handy speed-cook feature where pressing start immediately begins a 30-second cycle at full power, and you can press it again to add more time, which is perfect for those quick reheating jobs. For more guided cooking, there are 7 auto menus for common items like popcorn, potatoes, and beverages, taking the guesswork out of settings. Where this model really expands its capability is with the air fry function.
It comes pre-programmed with 11 air fry presets for popular foods like french fries, chicken wings, fish sticks, and vegetables. This allows you to achieve a crispy, fried texture using little to no oil, a healthier alternative to traditional deep frying, and it’s all contained within the same appliance. The 10 cooking levels give you fine control over the power, which is useful for more delicate tasks like melting or defrosting.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. is a compact and thoughtfully designed appliance that aims to simplify your daily kitchen tasks. Its 700-watt power provides efficient cooking and reheating, while its small footprint makes it an ideal solution for dorms, offices, small apartments, or as a secondary microwave in your main kitchen.
The sleek black finish gives it a modern look that fits seamlessly with other appliances.
One of the key aspects of this microwave is its straightforward operation. The digital control panel offers six one-touch presets for common items like popcorn, pizza, potatoes, and leftovers, which takes the guesswork out of settings. For more control, you have 10 adjustable power levels at your fingertips.
This range lets you gently defrost or melt ingredients on a low setting or use full power for quick reheating. The handy +30 seconds button is perfect for adding a little extra time without reprogramming everything, and the memory function allows you to save your most frequent custom settings for instant access later.
This model includes several features focused on convenience and quiet operation.
The mute button lets you silence all the beeps and tones, which is great for late-night snacks or quiet households. When your not using it, the Eco Mode can turn off the display to save a small bit of energy. Cleanup is designed to be hassle-free, with a durable exterior that wipes down easily and a glass turntable that’s safe for the top rack of your dishwasher.
Safety is also a priority here.
COMFEE' EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black
The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact, 0.7 cubic foot appliance designed to simplify your daily kitchen tasks. With 700 watts of power and a sleek black finish, it fits neatly on most countertops while offering a surprising range of features that focus on convenience, control, and quiet operation. One of the standout features of this microwave is it’s sound on/off function, which allows you to mute all the beeps and tones.
This is perfect for late-night snacks or if you simply prefer a quieter kitchen environment. Paired with this is the Energy Saving ECO Mode, a setting that reduces standby power consumption by up to 50%. When activated, it helps lower your energy bill without you having to think about unplugging the unit. Navigating the settings is straightforward thanks to the bright digital display and clearly labeled control panel.
You get easy one-touch buttons for everyday foods like popcorn, potato, pizza, and frozen vegetables, which take the guesswork out of cooking times. For more direct control, the express cooking function lets you start heating with a single press for 1 to 6 minutes, and the handy +30 seconds button is there for quick additions. Defrosting is also flexible, offering you the choice to defrost by weight or by time, depending on what your preping. Safety and usability are well considered.
The child safety lock prevents accidental starts or changes to settings, giving you peace of mind. Inside, a 10-inch glass turntable ensures even cooking, and the interior light lets you easily monitor your food’s progress. The clock and kitchen timer functions add to its utility as a general kitchen helper. This COMFEE’ model is backed by a one-year limited warranty, providing assurance in its build quality.
TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, Perfect for Apartment, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Black Stainless Steel
The Toshiba ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven is designed to be a compact and highly functional appliance for smaller living spaces, like apartments, dorms, or office kitchens. Its 0.9 cubic foot capacity and black stainless steel finish offer a modern look without taking up much counter space.
While it’s small on the outside, the interior is thoughtfully laid out to fit a variety of plates and bowls, supported by a 10.6-inch removable glass turntable for even cooking and easy cleaning.
This microwave is built with practical daily use in mind. Its 900 watts of cooking power provides a good balance of speed and control, suitable for most reheating and cooking tasks. You have a significant amount of control over how you cook, with 11 distinct power levels.
This lets you gently warm leftovers without drying them out or quickly boil water for a drink. The inclusion of a separate kitchen timer is a handy feature for general use, even when the microwave itself isn’t cooking.
For added convenience, Toshiba has included six preset auto menus. These settings take the guesswork out of cooking common items like popcorn, pizza, potatoes, and more. You simply select the corresponding button, and the microwave adjusts the time and power for you.
Defrosting is also straightforward, with options to defrost by time or by entering the weight of your frozen food, helping to preserve texture better than just using full power.
Several thoughtful features adress common nuisances. The two-step child lock is a crucial safety addition for familes, requiring a specific button sequence to operate, which helps prevent accidental starts by curious kids.
TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, Perfect for Apartments & Dorms, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Stainless Steel
The Toshiba ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven is designed to be a compact, smart, and user-friendly appliance that fits seamlessly into smaller living spaces like apartments, dorms, or office kitchens. With a 0.9 cubic foot capacity and a sleek stainless steel finish, it offers a modern look without taking up to much precious counter space.
Its core functionality is built around making everyday cooking and reheating tasks straightforward and adaptable to your needs.
At 900 watts of cooking power, this microwave provides efficient heating for a wide variety of foods. You have precise control with 11 distinct power levels, allowing you to gently defrost, simmer a sauce, or quickly reheat a meal without overcooking. The inclusion of a clock and a separate kitchen timer adds to its utility as a general kitchen helper.
For frozen items, the easy defrost function lets you choose between defrosting by weight or by time, taking the guesswork out of the process. When you need speed, the one-touch start lets you begin cooking at full power for 1 to 6 minutes instantly—perfect for heating a quick beverage or warming leftovers.
To simplify cooking common items, the six preset menus are a handy feature.
With dedicated settings for popcorn, pizza, potato, and more, you can achieve consistent results without manually setting power and time. The interior is illuminated by bright LED lighting and features a 10.6-inch removable glass turntable, which ensures even cooking and makes cleanup spills a breeze.
Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless
The Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven is designed for straightforward, reliable performance in kitchens where space and simplicity are key. With 700 watts of cooking power, it provides the essential speed you need for heating leftovers, preparing quick snacks, or cooking simple meals without complication. It’s a practical appliance that focuses on getting everyday tasks done efficiently.
You’ll find a good range of settings that cover most common needs.
The ten adjustable power levels give you control for everything from gentle warming to full-power cooking, and the multi-stage programming allows you to combine power levels and times for more complex dishes. For convenience, there are six one-touch auto cook settings for items like popcorn, potato, and pizza, which take the guesswork out of timing.
The defrost function can be set either by weight or by time, offering flexibility for thawing meats, breads, or frozen vegetables quickly and evenly.
Its 0.7 cubic foot capacity is a notable feature, making it a compact solution that dosn’t monopolize your countertop. It’s well-suited for small apartments, dorm rooms, office kitchens, or as a secondary microwave. Despite it’s smaller exterior footprint, the interior is thoughtfully sized to accommodate many dinner plates and bowls.
Cleanup is designed to be hassle-free, with a smooth interior that wipes down easily and a stainless steel exterior that resists fingerprints and smudges.
Operation is intuitive. The clear LED display shows the time, timer, and settings at a glance. An interior light lets you monitor your food’s progress without opening the door, which helps maintain consistent cooking.
Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Black
The Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact and thoughtfully designed appliance that aims to simplify your daily routine. With 700 watts of power, it provides enough strength to heat leftovers, cook frozen meals, or prepare simple dishes quickly and efficiently, making it a reliable partner for busy mornings or those evenings when you need a fast solution.
One of the key aspects of this microwave is its range of settings.
It offers ten adjustable power levels, giving you precise control over how your food is heated, which is great for avoiding those dreaded soggy spots or dried-out edges. The six one-touch auto cook options—for items like popcorn, potato, and pizza—take the guesswork out of common tasks. You just press a button and it handles the time and power for you.
The defrost function is also versatile, allowing you to choose between time or weight settings, which helps thaw food more evenly than some basic models.
Its size is a significant advantage. The 0.7 cubic foot capacity is a smart balance; it’s large enough to fit a standard dinner plate or a medium-sized bowl comfortably, yet its overall footprint is compact. This makes it an excellent fit for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, office break areas, or as a secondary microwave.
The design is straightforward and clean, with an easy-to-clean interior and exterior that helps with maintence after spills or splatters.
Additional features add to its day-to-day usefullness. The clear LED display doubles as a kitchen timer and clock, which is handy for general cooking tasks beyond just microwaving.
Nostalgia Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven – 0.7 Cu. Ft. – 700-Watts with LED Digital Display – Child Lock – Easy Clean Interior – Red
The Nostalgia Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven is a charming and practical appliance designed to fit seamlessly into smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices without sacrificing style or functionality. Its 0.7 cubic foot capacity is ideal for individuals, couples, or anyone with limited counter space, providing just the right amount of room for a dinner plate, a bowl of soup, or a bag of popcorn.
With 700 watts of cooking power, it handles everyday tasks like reheating leftovers, warming beverages, and cooking simple meals quickly and efficiently, making it a reliable helper for your daily routine. You’ll find operating this microwave to be straightforward and user-friendly. The LED digital display is clear and bright, showing the time and your selected settings at a glance.
For added convenience, it includes 12 pre-programmed cooking settings that take the guesswork out of heating common items. Whether your warming a slice of pizza, cooking a baked potato, or preparing frozen vegetables, these one-touch options help you get consistant results. The express cooking function lets you start heating with a single button press, and the delay timer allows you to set it to begin later, which is a handy feature for planning ahead.
A child lock feature provides peace of mind if you have little ones around, preventing accidental operation. One of the key aspects for any microwave is how evenly it heats your food. This model includes a rotating glass carousel that helps to distribute the microwaves thoroughly, reducing those frustrating cold spots in your meal. Cleanup is also consider, thanks to its easy-clean interior.
Compact Microwave Oven Buying Guide
A compact microwave oven is a space-saving champion for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices. It’s perfect for reheating leftovers, making popcorn, or cooking simple meals. The key is finding one that fits your space and your cooking habits without sacrificing to much performance.
Size and Where It Fits
Measure your counter space first. These microwaves are designed to be small, but their footprints vary. Check the interior capacity too, usually between 0.5 and 0.9 cubic feet. That’s enough for a standard dinner plate or a medium bowl. Think about what you’ll heat most often—a larger mug or a full meal—and choose accordingly.
Power and Speed
Wattage is your main indicator of power. Most compact models range from 700 to 900 watts. Higher wattage means faster, more even cooking. If you often reheat soups or beverages, 800 watts or more is a good target. A lower-wattage microwave will work, but it might take a bit longer to get the job done.
Ease of Use
Look for simple controls. A basic dial for time and power is incredibly straightforward. Digital keypads with preset buttons for things like pizza or potatoes can be handy, but they add complexity. The best control panel is the one you’ll actually use without having to consult the manual every time.
Special Functions
Beyond just reheating, some models offer helpful extras. A defrost function that works by weight or time is very useful. Sensor cooking, which adjusts time and power based on steam, can prevent overcooking. While not essential, these features can make your life a little easier if they fit your budget.
Cleaning and Upkeep
Interiors with a ceramic enamel coating are generally easier to wipe clean than stainless steel, which can show fingerprints. A removable glass turntable is standard and should go in the dishwasher. Keep an eye out for a design with minimal crevices where crumbs and spills can get stuck—it saves you a headache later.
Frequently Asked Questions About Compact Microwave Oven
What is a compact microwave?
A compact microwave is a smaller version of a standard model. It’s designed to fit in tight spaces like dorms, offices, or small kitchens. They’re perfect for reheating meals, making popcorn, or cooking simple dishes for one or two people.
How much smaller is it than a regular microwave?
They’re significantly smaller. A full-size microwave often has over 1.0 cubic feet of space. A compact model is usually under 0.9 cubic feet, with many around 0.7 cubic feet. This saves a lot of counter space.
What can I actually cook in one?
You can reheat leftovers, beverages, and frozen foods easily. You can also cook oatmeal, steam vegetables, or bake a single potato. It’s great for basic tasks, but it’s not ideal for large family meals or big dishes.
Do thay have less power?
Often, yes. Power is measured in watts. Full-size microwaves might have 1000+ watts. Compact models typically range from 600 to 800 watts. This means food might take a little longer to heat, but it still gets the job done well.
What features should I look for?
Look for simple controls you find easy to use. A turntable helps food heat evenly. Pre-programmed settings for things like popcorn are handy. Also, check the interior size to make sure it fits your common plates or bowls.
Where is the best place to put it?
Anywhere you have a free outlet and flat surface! Common spots are on a kitchen counter, a dorm desk, or in a break room. Just ensure there’s a few inches of space around it for ventilation, which is important for safety.
Is it cheaper to run than a bigger microwave?
Generally, yes. Because it’s smaller and often uses less power, it consumes less electricity. The difference on your bill will be small, but every bit helps. The upfront cost is usually lower too.
Can it replace my regular microwave?
It depends on your needs. If you live alone or with one other person, it might be all you need. For a larger household that heats big plates of food often, a full-size model is probably better suited for you.
In Summary
So, that’s a good look at what to consider. The right choice really comes down to your own space and daily habits. Think about where it will live and what you’ll use it for most days. A little planning here makes all the difference for a smooth fit.
In the end, a good compact microwave oven is a real helper. It saves you time on simple tasks without taking over your counter. We hope this guide helps you find one that feels just right for your kitchen and makes your routine a bit easier. Once you find your match, you’ll wonder how you managed without it.