Best Microwave For Apartments: Compact Picks For 2026
I’ve stood in tiny kitchens where counter space is a treasure and noise is a dealbreaker. Picking the best microwave for apartments means balancing size, power, quiet operation, and safe features. I focus on models that fit a narrow shelf, heat quickly, and keep utility bills low. In this guide I share options that suit roommates, studio dwellers, and busy renters who value ease and speed. Each pick is chosen for compact footprint, easy cleaning, and reliable performance. If you want the best microwave for apartments that saves space and cooks well, I’ll help you choose one you’ll use every day.
Toshiba 0.9 Cu Ft 900W Black Microwave
Product Overview
This Toshiba 0.9 cu ft microwave blends compact size with 900W power for fast reheats and simple meals. It fits small counters and dorm rooms and keeps noise low with a mute function and child lock for safety.
The LED light, 10.6-inch turntable, and six auto menus make cooking easy. This model is ideal for renters who need a reliable, compact oven that cleans easily and heats evenly. I find it a balanced choice when hunting the best microwave for apartments with decent power and small footprint.
Advantages
- Compact 0.9 cu ft fits small counters
- 900W for fast, even heating
- Mute function for quiet use
- Child lock adds safety for families
- LED interior light and easy controls
Limitations
- Not ideal for very large plates
- Limited advanced features
- Can scorch delicate foods if overheated
Our Verdict
I recommend this Toshiba for renters who need a quiet, compact unit. It is a solid pick for anyone wanting the best microwave for apartments without wasting counter space. The safety locks and quick presets make it a dependable, affordable choice.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Small kitchens | Compact 0.9 cu ft saves counter space |
| Quiet households | Mute function keeps noise low |
| Families with kids | Child lock adds safety |
Chefman 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Countertop Microwave
Product Overview
The Chefman 0.7 cu ft microwave is built for tight spaces with 700W power and ten power levels for precise control. Its six cooking presets, eco mode, and child safety lock are friendly features for renters and students.
This model has a simple keypad and express cook buttons that speed mornings. Because it uses less power, it can help lower electricity use in apartments. I chose it as a practical, space-saving pick when searching the best microwave for apartments that blends affordability with reliable performance.
Advantages
- Ultra-compact 0.7 cu ft footprint
- Ten power levels for cooking control
- Energy-saving eco mode
- Simple one-touch express cook
- Child safety lock for peace of mind
Limitations
- Lower wattage means longer cook times
- Smaller interior limits plate size
- Basic feature set may disappoint power users
Our Verdict
I recommend the Chefman for studio renters, students, or anyone short on counter space. It is affordable and energy friendly and earns its place as the best microwave for apartments for tight kitchens. The simple controls make daily use stress-free.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Students | Small size fits dorm rooms |
| Energy conscious renters | Eco mode reduces power use |
| Basic meal prep | Express cook simplifies reheats |
Toshiba 0.9 Cu Ft 900W Stainless Microwave
Product Overview
This Toshiba 0.9 cu ft stainless microwave is the steel-finish sibling with 900W power and six auto menus for common foods. It offers mute mode and a child lock so it works well in busy apartment kitchens.
The removable 10.6-inch turntable cleans simply and the LED interior light helps monitor cooking. I picked this for renters who want a sleek look without bulk. It represents a top pick when I test the best microwave for apartments for style and function in small spaces.
Advantages
- Stainless steel finish looks modern
- 900W heats quickly and evenly
- Mute and child lock features
- Easy-clean turntable
- Compact size fits tight counters
Limitations
- Exterior can show fingerprints
- No convection or inverter tech
- Turntable limits flatware placement
Our Verdict
I suggest this Toshiba for renters seeking style and power in one unit. It is one of the best microwave for apartments for those who want stainless looks with compact dimensions. It offers good value and dependable heating.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Style-minded renters | Stainless finish complements modern kitchens |
| Small households | Compact but powerful 900W output |
| Shared spaces | Mute feature reduces noise conflicts |
Farberware 1.1 Cu Ft 1000W Microwave
Product Overview
The Farberware 1.1 cu ft microwave delivers 1000W of power with auto cook settings and easy-clean interior. It fits moderate counters while offering stronger heating for larger portions and family-style meals in apartments.
This model adds defrost and child safety lock features. I selected it for renters who sometimes cook full meals and want faster performance. For anyone choosing the best microwave for apartments who needs more capacity and power, this Farberware strikes a good balance between size and capability.
Advantages
- Higher 1000W power for quick cooking
- 1.1 cu ft fits larger dishes
- Auto cook and defrost presets
- Easy-clean interior reduces effort
- Child safety lock included
Limitations
- Takes more counter space than compact models
- Slightly louder on high power
- Heavier to move during setup
Our Verdict
I recommend Farberware for small families or roommates who need extra capacity. It stands out as a powerful option among the best microwave for apartments, especially for users who heat larger plates. The price and features deliver strong value.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Small families | 1.1 cu ft fits medium dishes |
| Frequent cooks | 1000W reduces cook times |
| Renters upgrading | More power and presets |
BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Stainless Microwave
Product Overview
The BLACK+DECKER 0.7 cu ft microwave offers 700W heating in a sleek stainless body. It has a push-button door, simple digital controls, and a child lock that fit the needs of compact apartment kitchens.
This unit suits renters who want basic, reliable reheats and a neat look. I rate it for practical use in studios and tight kitchens where the best microwave for apartments must be small, reliable, and budget friendly. It performs everyday tasks well without complex menus.
Advantages
- Compact 0.7 cu ft fits tiny counters
- Push-button door for easy access
- Simple digital controls
- Stainless finish looks clean
- Child safety lock for families
Limitations
- Limited power at 700W
- Few advanced presets
- Interior space is small for large dishes
Our Verdict
I recommend this BLACK+DECKER for renters who need a no-fuss, compact microwave. It is a sensible choice among the best microwave for apartments when space and budget are top concerns. The reliable basic features make daily use easy.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Budget renters | Affordable, reliable performance |
| Tiny kitchens | Minimal footprint saves space |
| Simple users | Easy controls and door |
Toshiba 1.2 Cu Ft 1000W Smart Microwave
Product Overview
The Toshiba EM131A5C packs 1.2 cu ft and 1000W into a smart countertop model with a humidity sensor and 12 auto menus. It heats large dishes faster and reduces guesswork with sensor cook modes.
This microwave suits renters who want near-oven convenience without a built-in unit. I chose it for readers who want the best microwave for apartments with more cooking flexibility and faster results. It balances capacity, power, and smart features for everyday meal prep in small homes.
Advantages
- Large 1.2 cu ft capacity for big plates
- 1000W for fast cooking
- Humidity sensor for better results
- 12 auto menus simplify cooking
- ECO and mute modes available
Limitations
- Larger footprint needs more counter space
- Higher price than compact models
- May be overkill for single users
Our Verdict
I recommend this Toshiba for renters who cook full meals and want sensor-driven ease. It is one of the best microwave for apartments for those needing capacity and smart cooking in a countertop unit. It delivers convenience and speed worth the space.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Home cooks | Sensor cook and 12 menus aid results |
| Roommates | Large capacity handles more portions |
| Value seekers | Good mix of features and power |
I tested compact and larger countertop models and looked for quiet operation, power, and small footprints. The best microwave for apartments balances space and performance so you can cook, reheat, and defrost with ease.
If you live in a studio or small kitchen, choose a 0.7–0.9 cu ft model. For more cooking, opt for 1.1–1.2 cu ft. I recommend what fits your counter and daily needs, because the right pick makes apartment life easier and more convenient.
FAQs of best microwave for apartments
What size microwave is best for apartments?
Choose 0.7–1.2 cu ft based on counter space and plate size; 0.9 cu ft is a common sweet spot.
How much wattage is ideal for a small apartment?
700–1000W is ideal. 700W saves power; 900–1000W heats faster for larger meals.
Are compact microwaves safe for daily use?
Yes. Modern compact microwaves have safety locks and proper shielding for daily apartment use.
Can a microwave be used in a dorm or shared apartment?
Absolutely. Pick a compact model with mute and child lock to avoid noise and safety issues.
How do I reduce microwave noise in an apartment?
Use mute modes, place the unit on a stable mat, and avoid high-power bursts when possible.
