Does your kitchen feel a bit cramped? Do you dream of quick, hot meals but lack the space for a huge appliance? Many of us face this exact problem! Countertop microwaves are essential helpers, but finding one that fits perfectly without taking over your whole space can feel like a real puzzle. You need something small, but you also need it to heat food well and last a long time. It is frustrating to buy a tiny microwave only to find it cannot even fit your favorite mug!
Choosing the right small countertop microwave is tricky. You worry about size, power, and features all at once. This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down what really matters when shopping for these compact cooking stars. By the end of this post, you will know exactly which features to look for and which models offer the best bang for your small-space buck.
Ready to find the perfect, space-saving microwave that still packs a powerful punch? Let’s dive into the best small countertop microwave ovens available today!
Top Small Countertop Microwave Oven Recommendations
- Mute function, settings, clock, kitchen timer, child safety lock, easy auto-cook functions: Popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen veggie, beverage, reheat
- One touch express cooking function with 1-6 minutes and plus30 seconds functions, and two defrost settings (by weight or by time)
- Energy Saving Eco Mode: Minimizing 50% standby power by turning on ECO mode
- Bright digital display, easy-to-read control panel, interior light and 10 inch glass turntable
- One year limited warranty. Express cooking options & silent mode
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 700W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button.
- MEMORY FUNCTION: Program frequently used countertop microwaves functions into the control panel for one-touch microwave food. All your daily favorites are easy to set up and start microwaving.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally, and you can disable the microwave control panel using the Lock Mode.
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- Microwave output power 900 watts, input power 1400 watts. External dimensions 18.7x 14.7x 10.7 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 12.1 x 10.9 x 7.6 inches (WxDxH); includes 10.6-inch glass turntable.
- 6 Preset Menus: This compact microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potato and more.
- 11 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
- CONVENIENT MICROWAVE: Prepare quick and easy meals in a snap with our powerful microwave. It packs 700 of output power and features a range of settings for press-and-go speed.
- POWERFUL SETTINGS: This microwave has ten power levels with multi-stage cooking. You can fully customize your cooking with six one-touch options, including popcorn, potato, and pizza. Defrost by weight or by time settings to make quick work of any task.
- PERFECT SIZE: Measuring 0.7 cu ft, this microwave is the ideal small-space solution that offers full-sized cooking in a compact space. It features an easy-to-clean interior and exterior and is perfect for the home or office.
- ALL YOU NEED: This microwave has a clear LED display with a kitchen timer and clock that lets you easily keep track of time. Easy-to-view interior lighting lets you keep an eye on your dish, and a child safety lock adds additional security.
- FARBERWARE: From weeknight favorites to family feasts they'll never forget, Farberware helps today's families craft the meals that make memories and bring everyone together.
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.Voltage : 110 Volts.Rated Input Power(Microwave):1050W
- 700 Watts with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 Seconds Express Cooking
- Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 10” glass turntable
- Push-button door release for easy access
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”
- DIGITAL PANEL: Our microwave features a Digital Control Panel that makes it really easy to use and provides choices for express cooking, altering the power level, postponing the start, setting the time, and stop/cancel features.
- CONVENIENT: Utilize the two different defrost timers to have full control over how you want your food to be warmed. Cook your personalized meals and snacks in stages.
- SAFE: Keep your little ones safe by using the Child Safety Lock that prevents inadvertent usage or access. The large display provides a clear viewing of your meals for you to keep an eye on them to make sure it cooks perfectly.
- DIFFERENT SETTINGS: Intuitive cooking settings remove the complexity from daily cooking. There are six different auto cooking settings to choose from (popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen dinner, reheat, beverage).
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- Microwave output power 900 watts, input power 1400 watts. External dimensions 18.7x 14.7x 10.7 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 12.1 x 10.9 x 7.6 inches (WxDxH); includes 10.6-inch glass turntable.
- 6 Preset Menus: This compact microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potato and more.
- 11 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
- 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave, Retro Design, 700 Watts, Black
- Speed/Weight Defrost
- Catchy Retro Look
- Retro Themed Over Sized Knob
- Child Safety Lock
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Small Countertop Microwave Ovens
Small countertop microwaves are fantastic helpers in the kitchen. They save space but still heat your food quickly. Whether you live in a small apartment, an office, or just need a backup, choosing the right one matters. This guide helps you pick the best small microwave for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, focus on these important parts. They make using your microwave easier and better.
- Wattage (Power): Small microwaves usually have 700 to 1000 watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking. For quick reheating, 700W is fine. For better defrosting, look closer to 900W or 1000W.
- Size and Capacity: Small usually means 0.5 to 1.1 cubic feet. Measure your counter space first! Make sure the inside is big enough for your favorite mug or a small plate.
- Turntable Size: A glass turntable spins your food so it heats evenly. Check the diameter (usually 9 to 10 inches for small models). Some tiny models don’t have one, which can lead to cold spots.
- Control Panel Type: Do you prefer simple dials (mechanical) or easy-to-read digital buttons? Dials are often very simple to use. Digital controls usually offer preset cooking options.
- Preset Cooking Options: Good presets include “Popcorn,” “Defrost,” and “Reheat.” These take the guesswork out of cooking.
Important Materials
The materials used affect how long your microwave lasts and how easy it is to clean.
The **exterior casing** is usually painted metal. Look for durable paint that resists scratches.
The **interior** is very important. Stainless steel interiors are the best. They clean up easily and handle high heat well. Plastic interiors are cheaper but can stain or scratch over time.
The **door** should feel sturdy when you open and close it. Cheap plastic hinges break easily. Glass on the door should be dark and thick.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Good quality microwaves offer reliability. Poor quality ones break down quickly or heat unevenly.
What Makes a Microwave Better?
- Even Heating Technology: Better microwaves use technology that spreads the microwaves around more effectively. This prevents some food from being scorching hot while other parts are cold.
- Quiet Operation: A high-quality motor runs quietly. You won’t hear a loud humming noise every time you warm up soup.
- Easy-to-Clean Coating: Some interiors have special non-stick coatings. Wiping spills becomes very fast.
What Lowers the Quality?
- Flimsy Buttons: If the buttons feel mushy or stick, the control panel will likely fail soon.
- Weak Door Latch: If the door doesn’t close securely, the microwave might not start properly, or it could let out small amounts of radiation (though modern microwaves are very safe when new).
- Cheap Turntable Support: If the little wheels underneath the glass plate are flimsy plastic, they often break.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use your small microwave. This helps you decide which features matter most.
The Dorm Room Dweller: You need something small and reliable for ramen and coffee. Focus on simplicity (dials) and a low price.
The Office Worker: You heat up lunch every day. Look for quick reheat buttons and a quiet operation so you don’t disturb coworkers.
The Small Apartment Cook: You might use it for basic cooking, like heating frozen dinners. Prioritize higher wattage (900W+) and a decent capacity so you can fit a small casserole dish.
Remember, a good user experience means the timer is easy to set and the “Stop/Cancel” button works instantly!
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How small is “small” for a countertop microwave?
A: Generally, small models range from 0.5 cubic feet up to about 1.1 cubic feet. Anything bigger is considered mid-size.
Q: Do small microwaves use less electricity?
A: Yes, because they have smaller magnetrons (the part that makes the microwaves) and less internal space to heat, they usually use less power than large models.
Q: Are small microwaves powerful enough?
A: Most small microwaves have 700 to 1000 watts. This is plenty for reheating leftovers, melting butter, and cooking microwave popcorn.
Q: Should I get mechanical dials or digital controls?
A: Mechanical dials are great for simple tasks and last a long time. Digital controls give you more precise timing and preset options.
Q: Can I put metal in a microwave?
A: Never put metal inside any microwave. Metal causes sparks and can damage the appliance.
Q: How often should I clean my small microwave?
A: Wipe down the interior at least once a week. Spills should be cleaned immediately to prevent stains from setting.
Q: What is the benefit of a stainless steel interior?
A: Stainless steel is durable, reflects microwaves efficiently for even heating, and is much easier to wipe clean than plastic.
Q: Do I need a turntable?
A: A turntable is highly recommended. It rotates the food, ensuring that all parts get heated evenly. Microwaves without one often have cold spots.
Q: What if I live in a tiny space and can’t fit one?
A: If you truly have no counter space, you might need to look into compact drawer microwaves or over-the-range models, although these are usually more expensive.
Q: How long should a good small microwave last?
A: With regular use, a well-made small microwave should last between 5 to 10 years.