Best Compact Microwave Oven: Top Picks For Small Kitchens
I hate wasting space and time, so I look for microwaves that fit small kitchens, dorms, or office nooks. The best compact microwave oven solves cramped counters, slow reheats, and confusing controls. I test run models that heat fast, stay energy-smart, and offer simple presets. A great compact microwave should be quiet, safe for kids, and easy to clean. I focus on real use: reheating leftovers, defrosting meat, or steaming veggies. If you want the best compact microwave oven, you want a unit that blends power, size, and simplicity without costing a lot or crowding your counter.
Chefman 0.7 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave
Product Overview
This Chefman 0.7 cu ft microwave packs 700 watts into a compact frame ideal for small kitchens and dorm rooms. The easy one-touch express cook options and 10 power levels give simple control for everyday meals. The mute button and child safety lock keep noise low and families safe. Eco mode helps cut standby energy use while the interior wipes clean quickly. I rely on its steady heat for quick breakfasts and reheats.
I find the Chefman a true contender when you want a small footprint without giving up basic features. It’s a practical best compact microwave oven choice for tight spaces.
Advantages
- Compact 0.7 cu ft fits small counters
- 700W heats evenly for most reheats
- One-touch express cook presets
- Quiet mute mode and child lock
- Eco mode reduces standby energy
Limitations
- Limited interior space for large plates
- Not ideal for heavy-duty cooking
- Basic control panel lacks advanced features
Our Verdict
I recommend this Chefman for students, renters, or anyone needing a reliable best compact microwave oven on a tight counter. It offers core features, quiet operation, and energy-saving modes. If you want straightforward reheats and simple presets, this delivers solid value and wide availability.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Dorm rooms | Small footprint fits limited space |
| Office kitchens | Mute and quick presets for fast use |
| Budget buyers | Core features at a low price |
BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu Ft Digital Microwave
Product Overview
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is a compact 0.7 cu ft microwave offering reliable 700W performance in a stainless look. Push-button door and digital controls make it easy to heat snacks and small meals. The turntable helps cook evenly and the child safety lock adds peace of mind in family spaces. I appreciate the straightforward display and intuitive preset buttons for popcorn, beverage, and reheat.
This model is an everyday workhorse for anyone who needs a tidy, efficient unit. It’s a practical best compact microwave oven for simple tasks without a steep price tag.
Advantages
- Stainless finish looks modern
- Compact size fits tight counters
- Digital controls are easy to use
- Turntable improves even heating
- Child safety lock included
Limitations
- 700W limits very fast cooking
- Basic features only, no sensor cook
- Door mechanism can feel stiff initially
Our Verdict
I recommend the BLACK+DECKER for renters and small families who want a dependable best compact microwave oven with clean, simple controls. It balances style and function and is widely available. Choose this if you need a no-fuss microwave for daily reheats and small meals.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Renters | Compact and stylish stainless finish |
| Small kitchens | Fits narrow counters without clutter |
| Simple users | Easy presets, quick setup |
Toshiba 1.2 Cu Ft Smart Countertop Microwave
Product Overview
Toshiba’s 1.2 cu ft 1000W microwave blends power and compact design for cooks who want speed without a large appliance. The smart humidity sensor and 12 auto menus help prevent overcooking while the easy-clean interior speeds maintenance. I use the 1000W setting for frozen meals and rapid reheats, and the mute function is handy for late-night snacks. The removable 12.4″ turntable makes room for many plates.
This unit is a strong pick for those who want a more capable best compact microwave oven with sensor cook and extra capacity while still keeping a modest footprint.
Advantages
- 1000W for fast heating
- Smart humidity sensor prevents overcooking
- Larger 1.2 cu ft interior
- Easy-clean interior surface
- Multiple auto menus for convenience
Limitations
- Slightly larger footprint than other compacts
- Higher power can overcook if not watched
- More features add to the price
Our Verdict
I recommend the Toshiba 1.2 cu ft model for small families and apartment cooks who want a powerful best compact microwave oven with smart sensor cooking. It balances capacity and tech without taking up a full countertop. Good value for those who want speed and ease.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Small families | Bigger interior with higher wattage |
| Busy cooks | Sensor cook saves time and guesswork |
| Frequent reheats | 1000W speeds meals |
Toshiba 0.9 Cu Ft Microwave (Black)
Product Overview
This Toshiba 0.9 cu ft microwave offers 900W in a neat black stainless design that suits apartments and compact kitchens. Six auto menus simplify tasks like defrost and popcorn, while the LED lighting and easy-to-clean interior improve daily use. I value the child lock and mute function for quiet nights and safe homes. The 10.6″ turntable fits most plates and heats evenly for standard portions.
If you need a middle-ground best compact microwave oven with a balance of power and size, this Toshiba model is a smart, practical pick for daily use.
Advantages
- 900W cooks reliably and quickly
- Compact but roomier than 0.7 cu ft models
- LED lighting and easy-clean interior
- Child lock and mute function
- Attractive black stainless finish
Limitations
- Turntable size may not fit very large plates
- Fewer advanced presets than larger models
- Becoming a common model makes it less unique
Our Verdict
I recommend this Toshiba 0.9 cu ft for apartment dwellers and couples wanting a practical best compact microwave oven with enough power for everyday meals. It’s a strong mid-size compact that blends features and style at a fair price.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Apartments | Good capacity without a big footprint |
| Couples | 900W handles family-sized portions |
| Quiet users | Mute mode and child lock |
Toshiba 0.9 Cu Ft Microwave (Stainless)
Product Overview
The stainless steel Toshiba 0.9 cu ft microwave offers the same 900W performance and six auto menus in a sleek finish. LED lighting and easy-clean interior make maintenance quick. I like the balance of size and power for single cooks or pairs who need reliable reheats and simple defrosting. The 10.6″ turntable serves most dinner plates and microwave-safe containers with good results.
This stainless model is ideal when you want a clean, modern look combined with the dependable performance of a top best compact microwave oven without extra bulk.
Advantages
- Stainless finish matches many kitchens
- 900W power for fast heating
- Six auto menus simplify cooking
- Child lock and mute function
- Easy-clean interior surface
Limitations
- Not as powerful as some larger units
- Limited advanced features
- Interior could be bigger for large dishes
Our Verdict
I recommend the stainless Toshiba for style-focused buyers seeking a practical best compact microwave oven that still heats quickly. It’s great for apartments, small households, and anyone wanting a modern look with solid function.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Design-minded cooks | Stainless finish pairs with modern kitchens |
| Small households | Good balance of power and size |
| Easy cleaning | LED lighting and wipe-friendly interior |
Toshiba 0.7 Cu Ft Compact Microwave
Product Overview
This Toshiba 0.7 cu ft microwave offers 700W, 11 power levels, and ChefDefrost in a tidy, low-profile design. Sound on/off and ECO mode help manage noise and energy use. I use it for quick breakfasts and small reheats where space is tight. The compact size is ideal for desks, tiny kitchens, or backup use in second homes. Controls remain clear and easy to set for simple tasks.
For anyone seeking a no-frills best compact microwave oven with sensible energy features and dependable heating, this Toshiba unit is a strong, budget-friendly option.
Advantages
- Compact 0.7 cu ft fits tiny counters
- 11 power levels for precise heating
- ChefDefrost for better thawing
- Sound on/off and ECO mode
- Simple controls, easy to use
Limitations
- Lower wattage slows some tasks
- Small interior limits large plates
- Fewer automation features than bigger models
Our Verdict
I recommend this Toshiba 0.7 cu ft for students, tiny-kitchen owners, or anyone wanting the simplest best compact microwave oven with energy options. It’s affordable, space-saving, and performs daily microwave tasks without fuss.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Students | Tiny footprint for dorms |
| Second kitchens | Compact backup unit |
| Energy conscious | ECO mode saves standby power |
I tested size, power, and real use to find units that balance counter space and performance. For tiny kitchens, the 0.7–0.9 cu ft models are winners; for more power without big bulk, the 1.2 cu ft Toshiba shines.
If you want the best compact microwave oven overall, pick the model that fits your plate size, reheats often, and matches your budget. I favor units with mute, child lock, and ECO mode for daily peace of mind.
FAQs of best compact microwave oven
What is a compact microwave?
A compact microwave is a small countertop oven usually 0.5–1.2 cu ft that saves space while handling basic reheating and defrosting.
Which wattage is best for compact microwaves?
700–1000 watts is common; 700W handles basics, while 900–1000W heats faster and is better for frozen meals.
Are compact microwaves energy efficient?
Yes. Compact microwaves use less power overall for small tasks and many include ECO or standby modes to save energy.
Can a compact microwave cook full meals?
You can cook simple meals and reheat full plates, but large casseroles may not fit; portions should match the interior size.
How do I choose the best compact microwave oven?
Consider wattage, interior size, presets, and safety features like child lock; match these to your daily cooking needs.
