Finding the best small countertop microwave comes down to balancing size, power, and everyday convenience. Whether you need a compact model for a dorm, apartment, office, or a kitchen with limited counter space, the right microwave should heat reliably without taking over your workspace. The good news is that today’s small microwaves offer plenty of practical features, from mute functions and child locks to preset cooking options and easy-clean interiors.
Below, you’ll find a carefully organized guide to the best small countertop microwave options available right now. We’ve focused on compact models with real-world usability in mind, including simple controls, space-saving footprints, and dependable wattage levels. If you want a quick pick or a more detailed breakdown, this review has you covered.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
| Product | Best For | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|
| Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700W | Simple everyday use with useful extras | Buy |
| COMFEE’ 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700W | Value-focused compact cooking | Buy |
| TOSHIBA 0.9 Cu. Ft. 900W | Compact size with stronger power | Buy |
Best Small Countertop Microwave
1. Best Overall: Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft.
The Chefman 0.7 cu. ft. countertop microwave is a strong choice if you want a compact unit that covers the basics well. It offers 700 watts of power, 10 power levels, and 6 cooking presets, giving you enough flexibility for typical reheating and simple cooking tasks.
Its one-touch express cook function makes quick use convenient, while the Eco Mode, child safety lock, and mute button add practical value for shared households and smaller living spaces. For buyers who want a small microwave with helpful everyday features, this model is easy to recommend.
The black finish also gives it a clean, modern look that blends well into most kitchens. If your main priority is compact convenience without unnecessary complexity, this Chefman model fits the bill.
Pros
- 700 watts with 10 power levels
- 6 cooking presets
- One-touch express cook
- Eco Mode
- Child safety lock
- Mute button
Cons
- 700 watts is modest for larger cooking jobs
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity may feel tight for bigger dishes
2. Best Value: COMFEE’ 0.7 Cu. Ft.
The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB is a compact 0.7 cu. ft. microwave built for straightforward use. With 700 watts and easy one-touch buttons, it keeps operation simple for busy mornings, quick lunches, and light reheating.
It also includes sound on/off and ECO Mode, which can be especially appealing in apartments, dorms, or shared spaces where quieter operation matters. The design is minimal and practical, making it a good fit for shoppers who want a dependable small microwave without a complicated control panel.
As a value-oriented option, this model stands out for its mix of useful convenience features and compact size. It’s a sensible pick if you need a small countertop microwave that handles daily basics efficiently.
Pros
- Easy one-touch buttons
- Sound on/off function
- ECO Mode
- Compact 0.7 cu. ft. size
- 700 watts for basic everyday use
Cons
- Lower wattage than 900W or 1000W options
- Limited capacity for larger containers
3. Best For Stronger Power: TOSHIBA 0.9 Cu. Ft. 900W
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) offers a little more space and more power than many ultra-compact models. With 0.9 cu. ft. capacity and 900 watts, it can be a better fit if you want a small microwave that feels more flexible for everyday cooking.
This model includes 6 auto menus, a mute function, LED lighting, and a 10.6-inch removable turntable. Those details make it a practical all-around option for apartments, kitchens, and other spaces where you want more convenience without moving up to a large microwave.
Its black stainless steel finish gives it a polished appearance, and the overall feature set makes it one of the stronger compact options in this roundup. If you want a small countertop microwave with a bit more performance, this is a standout selection.
Pros
- 900 watts for stronger heating power
- 6 auto menus
- Mute function
- LED lighting
- 10.6-inch removable turntable
Cons
- Pricier than many 0.7 cu. ft. models
- Still compact, so larger dishes may not fit comfortably
4. Best For Simple Everyday Use: BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu. Ft.
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is a compact 0.7 cu. ft. microwave that keeps things simple and familiar. It comes with 700 watts of power, a turntable, and a push-button door, making it approachable for everyday household use.
A child safety lock adds an extra layer of peace of mind, especially if the microwave will be used in a family environment. The stainless steel finish also gives it a more classic kitchen look that works well in many settings.
This is a solid no-fuss option if you want a small countertop microwave that focuses on the essentials. It is best suited to buyers who prefer straightforward operation over advanced extras.
Pros
- 700 watts for standard reheating
- Push-button door
- Child safety lock
- Compact 0.7 cu. ft. size
- Stainless steel finish
Cons
- Fewer convenience features than some rivals
- Not ideal for larger meal prep
5. Best For Easy Controls: Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Stainless
The Farberware 0.7 cu. ft. microwave is designed to keep everyday cooking straightforward. With 700 watts, auto cook settings, and a defrost function, it handles the basics in a compact footprint.
Its easy-clean interior is a helpful touch for anyone who expects frequent use, and the child safety lock adds a practical family-friendly element. The stainless finish also gives it a neat, neutral appearance.
This model is a good match for buyers who want a simple microwave with a few helpful shortcuts. It’s compact, usable, and focused on convenience.
Pros
- Auto cook settings
- Defrost function
- Easy-clean interior
- Child safety lock
- Compact 0.7 cu. ft. footprint
Cons
- 700 watts may feel limited for some tasks
- Smaller interior capacity
6. Best For Compact 0.9 Cu. Ft. Use: BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu. Ft.
The BLACK+DECKER 0.9 cu. ft. digital microwave offers a bit more room than 0.7 cu. ft. alternatives while still staying compact enough for smaller counters. Its digital design and turntable make it a practical choice for simple daily use.
The push-button door and child safety lock add convenience and peace of mind, and the stainless steel finish helps it blend into most kitchen setups. It’s a useful middle-ground choice for shoppers who want a small microwave but need slightly more interior space.
This model is a sensible option if your compact microwave needs are slightly above basic dorm-level usage. It provides a comfortable balance of size and usability.
Pros
- 0.9 cu. ft. capacity
- Turntable included
- Push-button door
- Child safety lock
- Stainless steel finish
Cons
- Not as feature-rich as some competitors
- Larger than 0.7 cu. ft. units if absolute minimal size is needed
7. Best Retro Style: FRIGIDAIRE 0.7 Cu. Ft. Retro
The FRIGIDAIRE EMW788RETRO adds personality to the compact microwave category. With a 0.7 cu. ft. capacity, it keeps the footprint small while offering a distinctive retro-inspired look in black and gold.
This is a microwave that appeals as much to style as it does to function. If you want your appliance to stand out visually on the counter, this Frigidaire model brings a more decorative feel than many plain black or stainless steel options.
It’s best suited to buyers who value appearance and compact size over a long list of extras. For a stylish small countertop microwave, it makes a strong case.
Pros
- Retro-inspired design
- Compact 0.7 cu. ft. size
- Black-gold finish
Cons
- Fewer visible convenience details than some competitors
- Style may not suit all kitchens
8. Best For Dorms: TOSHIBA 0.9 Cu. Ft. Dorm
The TOSHIBA ML4-EM09PA(BS) is positioned as a practical dorm-friendly microwave with 0.9 cu. ft. capacity and 900 watts of power. That combination gives it a little more flexibility than the most basic compact models.
It includes 6 auto menus, a mute function, child lock, and a 10.6-inch removable turntable. Those are useful features for students or anyone in a small shared space who wants convenience without a large appliance.
With its black stainless steel finish and strong feature set, this model is one of the more versatile choices in the small microwave category. It’s a well-rounded fit for tight spaces.
Pros
- 900 watts of power
- 6 auto menus
- Mute function
- Child lock
- 10.6-inch removable turntable
Cons
- Higher price than entry-level compact models
- 0.9 cu. ft. may still be limiting for bigger items
9. Best For Larger Compact Needs: TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu. Ft. Silver
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS steps up into a larger compact class with 1.2 cu. ft. capacity and 1000 watts of power. If you want a microwave that still fits on a counter but offers more room and stronger cooking performance, this model is worth considering.
It includes a smart humidity sensor, 12 auto menus, mute function, ECO Mode, and an easy clean interior. Those features make it especially appealing for users who want an efficient, modern microwave with more versatility than a basic small unit.
Its 12.4-inch removable turntable also supports a wider range of dish sizes. This is a good option if your “small” microwave needs lean more toward practical capacity than ultra-compact dimensions.
Pros
- 1000 watts of power
- Smart humidity sensor
- 12 auto menus
- Mute function
- ECO Mode
- Easy clean interior
Cons
- Bigger than typical small countertop microwaves
- Higher price point
10. Best For Feature Balance: Chefman 0.9 Cu. Ft. 900W
The Chefman 0.9 cu. ft. model offers a larger compact size and 900 watts of power, making it a step up from the smaller 0.7 cu. ft. version. It keeps the helpful features that make Chefman approachable, including 10 power levels and 6 cooking presets.
One-touch express cook, Eco Mode, child safety lock, and mute button all help make it convenient for shared spaces and everyday meals. The extra capacity makes it more versatile for users who still want a microwave that won’t overwhelm the counter.
If you liked the idea of the Chefman 0.7 cu. ft. model but want a little more room and power, this version is a smart upgrade. It’s one of the most balanced options in the list.
Pros
- 900 watts of power
- 10 power levels
- 6 cooking presets
- One-touch express cook
- Eco Mode
- Child safety lock
- Mute button
Cons
- More expensive than the 0.7 cu. ft. Chefman
- Still not a substitute for a full-size microwave
11. Best Premium Compact Pick: Breville Compact Wave Soft Close
The Breville Compact Wave Soft Close is a premium compact microwave aimed at users who want a more refined countertop appliance. Its design focus and softer-close feel set it apart from the simpler budget-friendly models in this roundup.
While it doesn’t advertise the same long list of features as some other microwaves here, it does stand out as a more polished small appliance. The silver finish and compact form make it suitable for kitchens where appearance matters as much as practicality.
If you’re willing to spend more for a compact microwave with a more upscale presentation, this Breville model is a strong premium option. It’s best for shoppers who prioritize design and brand appeal.
Pros
- Compact design
- Soft close feature
- Premium-looking silver finish
Cons
- Much higher price than most compact alternatives
- Fewer listed convenience features than several competitors
12. Best Black Finish: TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu. Ft. Black
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS is another 1.2 cu. ft. option with 1000 watts and a strong feature set. It includes a smart humidity sensor, 12 auto menus, mute function, ECO Mode, and an easy clean interior.
This version stands out for buyers who want the same practical performance as the silver model but prefer a black finish. The 12.4-inch removable turntable also makes it useful for a wider range of cookware.
It’s a well-rounded microwave for people who want compact-ish capacity with a more full-featured feel. If you want a dependable daily driver and don’t mind the larger footprint, this is a smart choice.
Pros
- 1000 watts of power
- Smart humidity sensor
- 12 auto menus
- Mute function
- ECO Mode
- Easy clean interior
Cons
- Not as small as 0.7 cu. ft. options
- Higher price point
13. Best For Stainless Steel Look: TOSHIBA 0.9 Cu. Ft. Stainless
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) combines compact 0.9 cu. ft. sizing with 900 watts and a stainless steel finish. It’s a practical choice for apartments or kitchens where you want a cleaner, more classic look.
Its feature set includes 6 auto menus, a mute function, LED lighting, and a removable turntable. That keeps it useful for everyday use while still remaining easy to fit into smaller kitchens.
This model offers a nice mix of style and function. If stainless steel is your preferred finish and you want more power than a 700W microwave, it’s a compelling option.
Pros
- 900 watts of power
- 6 auto menus
- Mute function
- LED lighting
- Removable turntable
- Stainless steel finish
Cons
- More expensive than basic compact models
- Capacity may still be tight for some dishes
14. Best Budget Basic Pick: Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Black
The Farberware 0.7 cu. ft. black model keeps the same practical formula as the stainless version, with 700 watts, auto cook settings, defrost, and an easy-clean interior. It’s built for straightforward daily use in a compact form.
The child safety lock is another helpful feature, especially if the microwave is going into a family home or shared living area. The black finish makes it easy to blend into many kitchen layouts.
This is a smart budget-friendly option for shoppers who want an uncomplicated microwave that covers the essentials well. It’s simple, compact, and easy to live with.
Pros
- Auto cook settings
- Defrost function
- Easy-clean interior
- Child safety lock
- Compact 0.7 cu. ft. size
Cons
- 700 watts only
- May feel small for some cookware
15. Best For Retro Charm: Nostalgia 0.7 Cu. Ft. Ivory
The Nostalgia Retro 700W Microwave Oven brings a retro look to a compact 0.7 cu. ft. design. With 700 watts, child safety lock, and 8 auto-cook settings, it offers the kind of simplicity many shoppers want in a small countertop microwave.
The ivory color gives it a softer, more distinctive aesthetic compared with the usual black or stainless finishes. If you want a microwave that also serves as a style piece, this model delivers that vintage-inspired feel.
It’s a nice fit for people who prefer character and compact convenience in one appliance. For retro style without sacrificing utility, this is an appealing choice.
Pros
- Retro-inspired style
- 8 auto-cook settings
- Child safety lock
- Compact 0.7 cu. ft. size
- Ivory finish
Cons
- 700 watts is fairly modest
- Smaller capacity than 0.9 cu. ft. or 1.2 cu. ft. models
Buying Guide
Size and Capacity
When choosing the best small countertop microwave, capacity matters as much as external dimensions. A 0.7 cu. ft. microwave is usually best for very tight spaces, while 0.9 cu. ft. models provide a little more flexibility. If you want more room without stepping into a full-size appliance, 1.2 cu. ft. options can be a practical middle ground.
Wattage
Wattage affects how quickly and evenly a microwave heats food. In this roundup, 700W models are best for basic reheating and light cooking, while 900W and 1000W models generally offer stronger performance. If speed matters and you use your microwave often, higher wattage is usually worth considering.
Convenience Features
Features like auto menus, express cook, mute functions, ECO Mode, and sound on/off can make a big difference in everyday use. These extras help simplify cooking and make the appliance more comfortable in small homes, dorms, and shared spaces. The best small countertop microwave for you will likely be the one that matches how you actually cook.
Safety and Family Use
If children will be around the appliance, look for a child safety lock. This feature adds peace of mind in family kitchens and shared living situations. It’s one of the most practical additions you can get in a compact microwave.
Style and Finish
Small countertop microwaves come in finishes like black, stainless steel, silver, ivory, and retro-inspired colorways. Since the appliance will likely be visible on your counter, the finish can matter more than many buyers expect. A design that fits your kitchen can make a small microwave feel like a better long-term choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size is best for a small countertop microwave?
For most people, 0.7 cu. ft. is the smallest practical size, especially for dorms, offices, or very compact kitchens. If you want a bit more flexibility, 0.9 cu. ft. can be a better balance of size and usability.
Is 700 watts enough for a small microwave?
Yes, 700 watts is enough for basic reheating, defrosting, and light cooking. If you want faster heating or more versatility, 900W or 1000W models are usually better suited.
Do I need a mute function on a microwave?
A mute function is not essential, but it can be very helpful in apartments, dorm rooms, and shared homes. If you prefer a quieter kitchen experience, it’s a feature worth having.
Are child safety locks useful on countertop microwaves?
Yes, especially for families with young children. A child safety lock can prevent accidental use and offer extra peace of mind.
Which is better: 0.7 cu. ft. or 0.9 cu. ft.?
0.7 cu. ft. is better for tighter spaces and simple use, while 0.9 cu. ft. gives you a little more cooking room. If your counter can handle it, 0.9 cu. ft. is often the more versatile option.
Conclusion
The best small countertop microwave depends on how much space you have and how you plan to use it. If you want the most balanced overall pick, the Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. stands out for its helpful features and compact size. If value is your top priority, the COMFEE’ model is a strong choice, while TOSHIBA’s 0.9 cu. ft. and 1.2 cu. ft. options offer more power and flexibility for buyers who need a bit more performance.
Whichever model you choose, the key is to match the microwave to your space and daily routine. A well-chosen compact microwave can make meal prep easier without crowding your counter.