The best small microwave gives you everyday reheating and defrosting without eating up your counter. We compared the top-rated compact microwaves on Amazon, from 0.6 to 1.2 cu. ft., on size, power, features and owner feedback, and these eight are worth buying.
Toshiba 0.9 Cu. Ft. 900W
Full 900W power in a footprint under 19 inches wide.
COMFEE' 0.7 Cu. Ft.
The most popular compact microwave on Amazon.
BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu. Ft.
Affordable 900W power from a familiar brand.
Panasonic NN-SN67KS Inverter
Even inverter heating and sensor cooking in a compact body.
Commercial Chef 0.6 Cu. Ft.
Tiny footprint and easy dial controls.
Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft.
A compact stainless model that matches other appliances.
Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Mute option and a dishwasher-safe turntable.
Nostalgia Retro 0.9 Cu. Ft.
Vintage looks with 12 presets and a simple dial.
Quick Answer: The Best Small Microwaves
- Best overall: Toshiba 0.9 Cu. Ft. 900W. Full 900W power and a 10.6" turntable in an 18.7"-wide body.
- Best value: COMFEE' 0.7 Cu. Ft.. 25,000+ ratings, with a mute button and ECO mode.
- Best for even cooking: Panasonic NN-SN67KS Inverter. Compact 1.2 cu. ft. with sensor cooking.
- Smallest: Commercial Chef 0.6 · Best style: Nostalgia Retro
- Comparison table
- How we chose
- Detailed reviews
- Also worth considering
- What size microwave do you need
- 700W vs 900W vs 1,000W+
- Buying guide
- Where to put a small microwave
- Small microwave vs toaster oven vs combo
- Best pick for each situation
- Cooking tips
- Common problems and fixes
- Care and safety
- FAQs
- Final verdict
Small Microwaves Compared
Specifications are from each manufacturer. Prices change often, so tap Check to see today's price on Amazon.
| Microwave | Capacity | Power | Stands out for | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toshiba 0.9 Best Overall | 0.9 cu. ft. | 900W | 11 power levels | Small kitchens | Check |
| COMFEE' 0.7 Best Value | 0.7 cu. ft. | 700W | Mute, ECO mode | Dorms, offices | Check |
| BLACK+DECKER 0.9 900W Budget | 0.9 cu. ft. | 900W | Dinner-plate preset | Everyday use | Check |
| Panasonic NN-SN67KS Best Inverter | 1.2 cu. ft. | 1,200W | Inverter + sensor | Real meals | Check |
| Commercial Chef 0.6 Smallest | 0.6 cu. ft. | 700W | Dial controls | RVs, seniors | Check |
| Farberware 0.7 Offices & RVs | 0.7 cu. ft. | 700W | Stainless finish | Break rooms | Check |
| Chefman 0.7 Quiet Option | 0.7 cu. ft. | 700W | Mute, handle lock | Shared homes | Check |
| Nostalgia Retro 0.9 Retro Style | 0.9 cu. ft. | 800W | 12 presets, colors | Style lovers | Check |
How We Chose
We started with compact countertop microwaves (about 1.2 cu. ft. and smaller) sold on Amazon in the US and kept models rated 4.3 stars or higher from at least a thousand owners. We then compared them using manufacturer specifications and listing data:
- Size: outside dimensions, cavity capacity and turntable diameter.
- Power: cooking wattage and number of power levels.
- Ease of use: presets, display, dials versus keypads, mute and child lock.
- Owner feedback: the most common praise and complaints in Amazon reviews, especially about durability and noise.
Small, low-cost microwaves have more mixed durability reviews than full-size models across every brand, so we note the common complaints for each pick. Our "What owners say" notes summarize Amazon's review highlights in our own words.
The Best Small Microwaves, Reviewed
Toshiba 0.9 Cu. Ft. Compact Microwave (900W)
The best balance of size and power: 900 watts and a 10.6-inch turntable in a body just 18.7 inches wide.
Why we picked it
Many small microwaves cut power to 700 watts, which means slower, less even reheating. The Toshiba keeps a full 900 watts while staying compact at 18.7 inches wide and 13.3 inches deep. Its 10.6-inch turntable fits most dinner plates, and 11 power levels give you finer control for softening butter or defrosting.
Owners like its looks and value and say it fits perfectly in small kitchens. You get six presets, defrost by weight or time, and one-touch start for 1–6 minutes. It has a two-step child lock, which is now required on US countertop microwaves.
Owners say it works well, fits smaller spaces perfectly and is good value, and they like the silver and black design. Heating, power and noise get mixed feedback: most are happy, while a few say it heats unevenly or runs loud.
What we like
- 900W power in a compact body
- Fits most dinner plates
- 11 power levels for fine control
- Highest rating among small models
Watch out for
- Some owners find it noisy
- Mixed reports on even heating
COMFEE' 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave
A best-selling compact microwave with a mute button and an ECO mode that cuts standby power.
Why we picked it
With more than 25,000 ratings, the COMFEE' 0.7 is one of the most popular small microwaves you can buy. Owners say it's great for small counters and dorm rooms. It covers the basics well: six auto-cook presets, express cooking from 1–6 minutes, +30 seconds, and two defrost modes.
Two features stand out for shared spaces: a mute function that silences all beeps, and an ECO mode that COMFEE says cuts standby power by half. At 700 watts, expect slightly longer heating times than a 900W model.
Owners like its space-saving size for small counters and dorm rooms. Some say it fits dinner plates while others find it too small for popcorn bags. The main complaints are slower heating and some units failing within about six months.
What we like
- Huge owner base and great value
- Mute button for quiet use
- ECO mode saves standby power
- Fits small counters and dorms
Watch out for
- 700W is slower to heat
- Some owners report it failing within months
- Too small for some popcorn bags and big plates
BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu. Ft. Microwave (900W)
A no-fuss 900W microwave with a large display and a dinner-plate preset, at a budget-friendly price.
Why we picked it
The BLACK+DECKER 0.9 is the budget alternative to our top pick, with the same 900 watts and 10.6-inch turntable in an almost identical footprint. A large LED display and an easy-to-read keypad make it simple to use.
Presets cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and a dinner plate. It has a push-button door, interior light and child lock. Owners call it a great small appliance that works well.
Owners call it a great small appliance that works well. Reliability and value get mixed feedback, with most satisfied but some reporting problems over time.
What we like
- 900W at a budget price
- Large, easy-to-read display
- Dinner-plate preset
- Trusted brand
Watch out for
- Mixed reports on long-term reliability
- Basic feature set
Panasonic NN-SN67KS Inverter Microwave (1.2 Cu. Ft.)
A slim 1.2 cu. ft. inverter microwave that heats more evenly and fits full dinner plates.
Why we picked it
If "small" for you means a compact footprint rather than a tiny cavity, the Panasonic NN-SN67KS is worth the step up. Panasonic's inverter technology delivers a steady stream of power instead of switching on and off, which heats food more evenly from edge to center and defrosts without cooking the edges.
The Genius Sensor adjusts time and power automatically across 16 settings, and the 13.4-inch turntable fits full-size dinner plates and big bowls. Owners say it's roomy and more powerful than other compact models.
Owners say it performs well, fits full-size dinner plates and big bowls, and is more powerful than other compact models. Noise, button feel and even heating get mixed reviews, and some report it failing within two years.
What we like
- Even inverter heating and defrosting
- Sensor cooking takes out the guesswork
- Fits full-size plates
- Strong 1,200W power
Watch out for
- Larger than 0.7–0.9 cu. ft. models
- Some find the buttons stiff
- Mixed reports on noise
Commercial Chef 0.6 Cu. Ft. Microwave (CHM660B)
One of the smallest full-function microwaves, with two simple dials instead of a keypad.
Why we picked it
The Commercial Chef 0.6 is a great choice when space is extremely tight or when you want the simplest possible controls. Two mechanical dials set the power level and the time from 30 seconds to 30 minutes, with no menus to learn. Owners say it's easy enough for anyone to use.
At under 9.6 inches tall, it slides under low cabinets and onto small shelves. The 0.6 cu. ft. cavity handles mugs, bowls and small plates, but not large dinner plates.
Owners find it compact and very easy to use and like its look. Heating and noise get mixed feedback, and some owners report units that stopped working early.
What we like
- Very compact and short
- Dial controls anyone can use
- No keypad or menus
- Lightweight
Watch out for
- Only 6 power levels, no presets
- Too small for large plates
- Mixed reports on durability
Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave (Stainless)
A compact stainless steel microwave that tucks into corners and matches modern kitchens.
Why we picked it
The Farberware 0.7 is a solid all-rounder for offices, break rooms, RVs and small apartments. Owners say it's small enough to tuck into a corner and light enough to take camping, and the stainless finish blends with other appliances.
You get ten power levels, multi-stage cooking, six one-touch presets and defrost by weight or time, plus an LED display with a kitchen timer and child lock.
Owners say it performs well, tucks into a corner and is light enough for camping trips, and they like the stainless finish and value. Some find the beeps loud, and a few report it breaking within months.
What we like
- Stainless look for less
- Compact and portable
- Multi-stage cooking
- Strong value
Watch out for
- Some owners say the beeps are loud
- Mixed reports on durability
Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave
A sleek compact microwave with a mute button, handle child lock and a dishwasher-safe turntable.
Why we picked it
Chefman's 0.7 is designed for small counters and shared homes. An audio button silences the beeps, so it won't wake a sleeping baby or roommates, and the child lock is built into the handle: you simply lift the top edge to open it.
Six presets, ten power levels and a number-key quick start make it easy to use, and the glass turntable is top-rack dishwasher-safe. Owners say it's ideal for small kitchens.
Owners say it works well and is great for small counters. Size, noise and heating speed get mixed feedback, and some owners report early failures.
What we like
- Mute function
- Dishwasher-safe turntable
- Sleek, modern look
- Simple quick start
Watch out for
- Smaller inside than some expect
- Some owners report early failures
Nostalgia Retro 0.9 Cu. Ft. Microwave (800W)
A fun, vintage-style microwave in bright colors, with 12 presets and a turn-and-push dial.
Why we picked it
If your microwave sits out on the counter, why not make it look good? Nostalgia's retro microwave comes in bright colors with chrome accents, and owners say it's perfect for apartments and small kitchens.
It's easy to use: turn and push the dial to choose one of 12 pre-programmed settings, or use express cooking and the delay timer. With 800 watts, it's a bit more powerful than most 0.7 cu. ft. models.
Owners love the retro look and colors, find it easy to use and say it's perfect for apartments. Durability, even heating and noise get mixed feedback.
What we like
- Eye-catching retro design
- 12 presets and simple dial
- 800W in a compact size
Watch out for
- Some owners report early failures
- Mixed reports on noise and even heating
Also Worth Considering
What Size Microwave Do You Need?
| Capacity | Typical width | Fits | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.5–0.7 cu. ft. | About 17–18" | Mugs, bowls, small plates; some popcorn bags | Dorms, offices, RVs, one person |
| 0.8–0.9 cu. ft. | About 18–19" | Most dinner plates (about 10") | Couples, small apartments |
| 1.0–1.2 cu. ft. | About 20–21" | Full dinner plates, casserole dishes | Small families, compact kitchens |
| 1.3 cu. ft. and up | 21" and wider | Large dishes, 9×13 pans in some | Families (not a "small" microwave) |
Plate test: measure your largest everyday plate. A 10-inch plate needs at least a 10.6-inch turntable, which usually means 0.9 cu. ft. or larger. Many 0.7 cu. ft. models have a 10-inch turntable.
700W vs 900W vs 1,000W+: Does Wattage Matter?
Yes. Wattage sets how fast and evenly your microwave heats. Most small microwaves are 700W, while full-size models are usually 1,000–1,200W. Many frozen-meal instructions are written for higher-wattage ovens, so in a 700W microwave you'll often need to add time.
| Wattage | Speed | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| 600–700W | Slowest | Fine for reheating and drinks; add time to frozen meals and stir halfway |
| 800–900W | Good | Close to package instructions for most foods |
| 1,000–1,200W | Fastest | Matches most package instructions; best for cooking, not just reheating |
Tip: if a package lists 1,100W times and you have a 700W microwave, start with roughly half again as long (for example, 3 minutes becomes about 4½), then check and stir.
How to Choose a Small Microwave
1. Measure your space first
Measure the width, depth and height of the spot, including the door swing (most doors open to the left). Leave room for ventilation around the vents; your manual lists the exact clearances. Measure the depth too: some "small" microwaves are still 13–14 inches deep.
2. Choose capacity by what you heat
If you mainly heat drinks, soups and snacks, 0.7 cu. ft. is plenty. If you reheat dinner plates, choose 0.9 cu. ft. or more. If you cook full meals in the microwave, consider a compact 1.2 cu. ft. model.
3. Get enough power
900W is the sweet spot for small microwaves. 700W works but takes longer and can heat less evenly.
4. Inverter or standard?
Standard microwaves cycle full power on and off to simulate lower power levels. Inverter microwaves deliver steady, true low power, which defrosts more evenly and doesn't overcook edges. Inverters are mostly found in 1.0 cu. ft. and larger models, like the Panasonic on our list. See our picks for the best inverter microwaves.
5. Controls and features
Dial controls are simplest for seniors and kids. Keypads with presets are faster for everyday use. Useful extras include a mute button, sensor cooking, a dinner-plate preset and a dishwasher-safe turntable.
6. Child lock
Countertop microwaves sold in the US now ship with a two-step child lock or door safety feature. Most can be disabled or are simple to use once you know how; check the manual for your model.
7. Look at the finish
Black hides fingerprints, stainless matches other appliances, and retro models add color. Stainless-look fronts on budget models are often stainless trim on a painted body.
6 mistakes to avoid when buying a small microwave
- Measuring only the width. Depth and height matter too, especially under cabinets or on shelves. Add the door swing and handle.
- Ignoring the turntable size. The turntable, not the cubic feet, decides whether your plates fit.
- Going too low on wattage. A 600–700W microwave can feel slow if you reheat full meals every day.
- Forgetting ventilation. Boxing a countertop microwave into a tight cabinet can shorten its life.
- Buying on looks alone. Retro and colorful models are fun, but check the wattage and turntable too.
- Skipping reviews about durability. Budget compact microwaves vary in how long they last, so read recent owner feedback and keep your receipt for the warranty period.
Where to Put a Small Microwave
- On the counter: the easiest option. Keep it away from the sink and leave the vents clear.
- On a shelf or in an open cabinet: check the height and ventilation clearances. Don't enclose a countertop microwave in a tight cabinet unless the manual allows it or you use a trim kit.
- On a microwave cart: great for small kitchens, as long as the cart is rated for the weight.
- In an RV or camper: make sure your power source can handle the microwave's input wattage, which is higher than its cooking wattage.
Need a built-in look? Our guide to the best wall ovens covers wall oven and microwave combinations.
Small Microwave vs Toaster Oven vs Microwave Combo
| Small microwave | Toaster / air fryer oven | Microwave + convection combo | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best at | Fast reheating, drinks, defrosting | Crisping, toasting, baking | Both, in one box |
| Speed | Fastest | Slower | Fast |
| Browning | None | Excellent | Good |
| Counter space | Smallest | Similar | Saves space vs two appliances |
Still deciding? Our toaster oven vs microwave guide compares the two head to head. If you only have room for one appliance, a combo can do both jobs. See our picks for the best microwave oven combos and the best toaster ovens for small kitchens.
Best Small Microwave for Each Situation
| Situation | Our pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Studio or small apartment | Toshiba 0.9 | Full power, fits dinner plates, compact footprint |
| College dorm | COMFEE' 0.7 | Low cost, mute button, small enough for a shelf |
| Office or break room | Farberware 0.7 | Simple presets and a stainless look |
| RV, camper or tiny home | Commercial Chef 0.6 | Very compact, lightweight and simple dials |
| Seniors or kids | Commercial Chef 0.6 | Two dials, no menus to learn |
| Nursery or shared home | Chefman 0.7 | Mute option and a handle child lock |
| Small kitchen, real cooking | Panasonic Inverter | Even inverter heating and sensor presets |
| Statement kitchen | Nostalgia Retro | Fun colors and chrome accents |
Cooking Tips for Small Microwaves
- Stir and rotate. Small, lower-wattage microwaves have more uneven hot spots. Stir soups halfway and turn plates if your turntable is small.
- Arrange food in a ring. Leave the center of the plate empty; the edges heat faster than the middle.
- Cover loosely. A microwave-safe lid or paper towel traps steam for even heating and prevents splatters.
- Use lower power for longer. Reheating leftovers at 70% power for longer gives more even results than full power.
- Let it rest. Food keeps cooking for a minute or two after the timer ends, so wait before checking the temperature.
- Check package wattage. Adjust times for your microwave's wattage, as covered in the wattage guide.
Common Small Microwave Problems and Fixes
| Problem | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Runs but doesn't heat | Failed magnetron, diode or door switch | Stop using it; these parts involve high voltage, so call for service or replace it |
| Turntable won't spin | Plate not seated, worn roller ring or motor | Reseat the plate and roller ring; clean the track |
| Sparking inside | Metal, foil or a damaged waveguide cover | Stop immediately, remove metal, inspect the cover inside the cavity |
| Buttons don't respond | Child lock on, or a keypad fault | Check the child lock, then try unplugging it for a minute |
| Very loud humming | Normal hum or a failing component | A sudden change in noise is worth a service check |
| Door won't close | Food debris or a bent latch | Clean the door seal and latches; don't run it if it won't close fully |
Microwaves contain high-voltage parts that can hold a charge even when unplugged. Never open the outer case yourself; leave internal repairs to a qualified technician.
Small Microwave Care and Safety
- Clean weekly: microwave a bowl of water with a slice of lemon for 3–5 minutes, then wipe the interior. The steam loosens splatters.
- Never run it empty. Running a microwave with nothing inside can damage the magnetron.
- No metal. Avoid foil, metal trim and twist ties unless the manual allows it.
- Use microwave-safe containers. Glass and ceramics labeled microwave-safe are best.
- Keep the vents clear to prevent overheating and extend the microwave's life.
- Watch for warning signs: sparking, burning smells, a door that doesn't close tightly or a noisy turntable motor mean it's time for service or a replacement.
Small Microwave FAQs
What is the best size for a small microwave?
For most people, 0.9 cu. ft. is the sweet spot: it fits most dinner plates while staying under about 19 inches wide. Choose 0.7 cu. ft. for dorms and offices, or a compact 1.2 cu. ft. model if you cook full meals.
Is a 700-watt microwave good enough?
For reheating, drinks and popcorn, yes. It's slower than higher-wattage models, so add time to frozen meals and stir halfway. If you microwave often, 900W is worth it.
Will a dinner plate fit in a 0.7 cu. ft. microwave?
Sometimes. Many 0.7 cu. ft. models have a 10-inch turntable, which fits smaller plates but not all dinner plates. Measure your plates; a 0.9 cu. ft. model with a 10.6-inch turntable fits most 10-inch plates.
What is the smallest microwave you can buy?
Most compact countertop microwaves start around 0.5–0.7 cu. ft. The Commercial Chef 0.6 on our list is under 18 inches wide and about 9.6 inches tall.
Can I put a small microwave in a cabinet?
Only if there's enough ventilation clearance listed in the manual. Countertop microwaves need airflow around their vents; enclosing them tightly can cause overheating. Some models offer trim kits for built-in installation.
Are inverter microwaves worth it?
If you defrost or cook delicate foods often, yes. Inverter microwaves deliver steady low power for more even results. For basic reheating, a standard microwave is fine.
How long does a small microwave last?
Many last several years with normal use, though budget compact models have more mixed durability reviews. Keeping the vents clear, never running it empty and cleaning it regularly helps.
How do I turn off the child lock on my microwave?
It varies by model. Many use a long press on the Stop or Cancel button or a specific key combination, while some have a two-step door release. Check your manual.
Can I use a small microwave in an RV?
Yes, many compact microwaves are popular in RVs. Make sure your inverter or generator can handle the microwave's input power, which is higher than its cooking wattage, and secure it for travel.
Can you make popcorn in a small microwave?
Yes, though some full-size popcorn bags are a tight fit in 0.6–0.7 cu. ft. microwaves and may not rotate freely. A 0.9 cu. ft. model handles standard bags easily. Use the popcorn preset as a starting point and stop when popping slows to a few seconds apart.
What is the difference between cooking power and input power?
Cooking (output) power is the energy delivered to the food, such as 700W or 900W. Input power is what the microwave draws from the outlet, which is higher, often 1,000–1,500W. Input power matters for RVs, generators and shared circuits.
Is a small microwave cheaper to run?
Lower-wattage microwaves draw less power, but they also run longer to heat the same food, so energy savings are small. The bigger benefit is the lower purchase price and the space they save.
Final Verdict
The Toshiba 0.9 Cu. Ft. 900W is the best small microwave for most people: it's compact but keeps full 900W power and fits most dinner plates. For the lowest price, the COMFEE' 0.7 is a proven, popular choice.
If you want even cooking and sensor presets in a still-compact body, choose the Panasonic NN-SN67KS, and if space is extremely tight, the Commercial Chef 0.6 fits almost anywhere.
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