Best Small Microwave For Kitchen: Top Picks For 2026
I open a tiny kitchen cabinet and imagine a microwave that fits, works fast, and looks good. Many of us live with limited counter space, small budgets, or dorm rules. I know the pain of juggling size, power, and features. These compact units are the answer when you need quick meals, reheats, or simple cooking without wasting space. I tested shapes, dials, and presets in my head to pick models that balance watts and footprint. If you want the best small microwave for kitchen use, you should pick one that fits your routine, power needs, and style.
Chefman 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Countertop Microwave
Product Overview
This Chefman 0.7 cu ft microwave packs 700 watts into a small footprint for tight kitchens. It offers ten power levels, six cooking presets, and one-touch express cook to speed morning coffee and frozen dinners. The eco mode and mute button reduce energy use and noise, while the child safety lock keeps curious hands safe. The compact size makes it easy to tuck under cabinets or on a dorm countertop. If you want a sleek black model that performs daily tasks, this Chefman is a solid pick. It delivers reliable heat and simple controls for the best small microwave for kitchen setups.
Advantages
- Compact 0.7 cu ft fits small counters
- Multiple power levels for flexible cooking
- One-touch express cook speeds routine meals
- Eco mode reduces standby power use
- Child safety lock and mute button
Limitations
- 700W may be slow for some frozen meals
- Smaller turntable limits plate size
- Basic presets lack advanced sensor cooking
Our Verdict
I recommend the Chefman for renters, students, and anyone needing a compact option. It balances size and function and suits the best small microwave for kitchen needs when counter space is tight. The controls are simple and the price is wallet-friendly. Overall value is high for basic daily use.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Students | Small footprint and simple presets |
| Small apartments | Fits limited counter space |
| Budget buyers | Good features at low cost |
BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Compact Microwave
Product Overview
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is a 0.7 cu ft stainless steel microwave with 700 watts of power for quick reheats and simple cooking. Its digital controls, turntable, and child safety lock make it easy and safe to use in small kitchens and dorm rooms. The turntable fits everyday plates and the push-button door is convenient for one-handed access. It’s built to handle leftovers, oatmeal, and frozen meals without taking much space. If you need a reliable and compact appliance, this model blends form and function well. It’s a practical choice when shopping for the best small microwave for kitchen use.
Advantages
- Stainless steel finish looks modern
- Compact size ideal for tight counters
- Digital controls are intuitive
- Child safety lock included
- Turntable ensures even heating
Limitations
- 700W limits rapid cooking of large items
- Buttons can feel stiff for some users
- Interior light is dim
Our Verdict
I recommend this BLACK+DECKER for people who want a clean stainless look and reliable reheating. It fits those seeking the best small microwave for kitchen setups in apartments or dorms. The balance of features and size make it a dependable everyday unit. Availability is good and pricing is fair for budget-minded buyers.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Modern kitchens | Stainless steel finish |
| Dorm rooms | Compact and easy to use |
| Everyday reheating | Reliable 700W power |
Nostalgia 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Retro Microwave
Product Overview
This Nostalgia retro microwave pairs vintage style with practical function in a 0.7 cu ft, 700-watt package. It has a glass turntable, eight auto-cook programs, and a digital clock for easy daily use. The pink finish adds personality to compact kitchens, tiny apartments, or playful niches. Controls are straightforward and the child lock adds safety for homes with kids. It warms leftovers and prepares quick snacks without crowding the counter. If you want charm plus utility, this Nostalgia model stands out. It’s a fun yet functional option among the best small microwave for kitchen choices.
Advantages
- Attractive retro design in pink
- Eight auto-cook programs simplify meals
- Compact footprint saves counter space
- Digital clock and child lock included
- Glass turntable for even cooking
Limitations
- 700W is modest for heavy cooking
- Limited cavity size for larger plates
- Color limits matching other appliances
Our Verdict
I recommend the Nostalgia retro microwave for buyers who want style and function in one. It’s best for those seeking the best small microwave for kitchen spaces that need character and compact power. I value its presets and safety features for quick snacks and simple meals. It offers good value for design-forward small kitchens.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Stylish kitchens | Retro look adds charm |
| Small apartments | Compact and efficient |
| Quick snacks | Auto-cook presets |
Farberware 1.1 Cu Ft 1000W Countertop Microwave
Product Overview
The Farberware 1.1 cu ft microwave delivers 1000 watts of power in a compact countertop package. It heats faster than 700W models, handles larger plates, and includes auto cook settings and defrost modes for flexible meal prep. The easy-clean interior reduces maintenance, and the child safety lock adds peace of mind in family kitchens. Its metallic red finish brings a splash of color without taking extra space. For cooks who want more power but still need a small appliance, this Farberware fits well. It’s a top contender when choosing the best small microwave for kitchen tasks that need extra wattage.
Advantages
- 1000W heats quickly and evenly
- Larger 1.1 cu ft capacity fits plates
- Auto cook and defrost presets
- Easy-clean interior surface
- Child safety lock included
Limitations
- Slightly larger footprint than 0.7 cu ft units
- Brighter finish may not suit every decor
- Higher power uses more electricity
Our Verdict
I recommend the Farberware for those who need faster cooking and a bit more capacity. It’s ideal if you want the best small microwave for kitchen spaces but need extra wattage for larger plates. I find it a great value for small families or avid cooks in compact kitchens. Availability and features make it a practical choice.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Small families | More capacity and power |
| Frequent cooks | 1000W speeds tasks |
| Colorful kitchens | Metallic red finish |
Nostalgia 0.7 Cu Ft Lavender Retro Microwave
Product Overview
The Nostalgia lavender microwave blends playful color with compact performance in a 0.7 cu ft, 700-watt unit. It features an LED digital display, easy-clean interior, and child lock for safe and simple everyday use. The small size fits snugly on counters, in RVs, or in small kitchens where style matters. Controls are clear and presets help speed routine meals. This model is perfect for anyone who values a fun aesthetic without losing basic microwave utility. I consider it a charming pick among the best small microwave for kitchen options when you want a soft color and reliable heating.
Advantages
- Attractive lavender color
- LED display for easy reading
- Compact size fits tight spaces
- Easy-clean interior surface
- Child lock for safety
Limitations
- 700W limits high-heat cooking
- Small interior won’t fit large pans
- Limited color matching for some kitchens
Our Verdict
I recommend the Nostalgia lavender for buyers who want color and compact performance. It works well as the best small microwave for kitchen corners, dorms, or RVs where personality matters. I like its simple controls and safety features for casual cooking. It’s a solid choice for style-focused small spaces.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Colorful decor | Lavender finish adds style |
| Tiny kitchens | Compact footprint |
| Casual cooks | Simple presets and display |
GE 2.0 Cu Ft 1200W Stainless Countertop Microwave
Product Overview
The GE 2.0 cu ft microwave brings high power and larger capacity for users who need more from a countertop unit. At 1200 watts, it cooks faster and handles bigger dishes while still staying suitable for many kitchens and apartments. Eight auto cooking settings and child-lock technology offer convenience and safety. The stainless steel finish fits modern kitchens and resists wear. If you need room for casserole dishes or family portions without buying a full-size built-in, this GE model is a smart choice. It stands out among best small microwave for kitchen picks when space allows a slightly larger unit.
Advantages
- High 1200W power for faster cooking
- Large 2.0 cu ft capacity fits big dishes
- Eight auto-cook settings simplify use
- Child-lock technology enhances safety
- Stainless steel look matches many kitchens
Limitations
- Larger footprint requires more counter space
- Higher price than compact models
- May be overpowered for single users
Our Verdict
I recommend the GE 2.0 cu ft microwave for households needing more capacity while keeping countertop flexibility. It suits those who want the best small microwave for kitchen use but need room for larger dishes. I find it best for families or meal preppers in apartments. The higher wattage and settings justify the size and cost.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Families | Larger capacity for big dishes |
| Meal preppers | 1200W speeds cooking |
| Modern kitchens | Stainless steel finish |
I picked compact, stylish, and powerful models that fit different needs. Each option aims to be the best small microwave for kitchen use depending on space, power, and style.
If you want the best small microwave for kitchen needs, match size to your routine: choose 0.7 cu ft for tiny counters, 1.1 cu ft for more capacity, or 2.0 cu ft for larger dishes. I favor models with clear controls, child locks, and reliable wattage for everyday value.
FAQs of best small microwave for kitchen
What size is best for a small kitchen?
A 0.7 to 1.1 cu ft microwave balances capacity and footprint for most small kitchens.
Is 700W enough for daily use?
Yes. 700W handles reheats and simple meals well, but 1000W+ cooks faster for larger plates.
Do compact microwaves have safety features?
Most include child locks and mute buttons; always check the model specs before buying.
Can I bake or roast in these small units?
Microwaves are best for reheating and quick cooking. They don’t replace ovens for roasting or baking.
Which model is the best small microwave for kitchen use overall?
Choose by your needs: 0.7 cu ft for tiny counters, 1.1 cu ft for more capacity, and 2.0 cu ft if you need large dishes.
