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I’ve been hunting for a reliable small microwave that fits tight kitchens without sacrificing power or convenience. What matters most is capacity, defrost performance, and built‑in safety features, especially for busy families and college students who need quick reheating and simple preset options.
I also look for energy‑saving modes and mute functions to keep the kitchen quiet, and a clear display with easy‑access controls so anyone can use it without fumbling. The goal is to find a model that delivers consistent cooking, stays within a modest footprint, and won’t break the bank while still feeling premium.
Below is a side‑by‑side comparison of the top contenders to help you narrow your choice.
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Top Pick | TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven with 11 Power Levels | Capacity: 0.7 Cu Ft | Power Levels: 11 | Defrost: ChefDefrost – up to 40% faster | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Best Overall | Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu Ft. | Capacity: 1.1 Cu Ft | Power Levels: 10 | Defrost: 6 Auto Menus | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Budget Choice | BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push‑Button Door | Capacity: 0.7 Cu Ft | Power Levels: 10 | Defrost: Popcorn, Potato, Pizza, Frozen Vegetable, Beverage, Dinner Plate | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Runner Up | Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu Ft. | Capacity: 0.7 Cu Ft | Power Levels: 10 | Defrost: Popcorn, Pizza, Beverages, Veggies, Potatoes, Leftovers | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Best Value | COMFEE’ EM720CPL‑PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off | Capacity: 0.7 Cu Ft | Power Levels: 10 | Defrost: Weight or Time preset | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Premium Pick | Panasonic Microwave Oven NN‑SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop/Built‑In with Inverter Technology | Capacity: 1.2 Cu Ft | Power Levels: 10 | Defrost: Inverter Turbo Defrost | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Most Versatile | Nostalgia Countertop Microwave Oven with Easy Clean Interior – Retro | Capacity: 0.7 Cu Ft | Power Levels: 10 | Defrost: 12 Pre‑Programmed Settings | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Business Choice | TOSHIBA EM131A5C‑BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4″ | Capacity: 1.2 Cu Ft | Power Levels: 10 | Defrost: Smart Sensor Technology (humidity‑based) | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Premium Choice | TOSHIBA EM131A5C‑SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4″ | Capacity: 1.2 Cu Ft | Power Levels: 10 | Defrost: Smart Sensor Technology (humidity‑based) | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Premium Choice | Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts | Capacity: 1.1 Cu Ft | Power Levels: 10 | Defrost: Auto Cook Settings, Defrost by Weight or Time | View Latest Price | Read Review |
Now let’s dive into the detailed reviews to see which small microwave truly meets your cooking needs.
In-Depth Reviews
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TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven with 11 Power Levels
- Power Output700W
- Input Power1020W
- Interior Size0.7 cu ft (11.8 x 11.7 x 8.1 in)
- Glass Turntable9.6 inches
- Auto Menus6 presets
- Special FeaturesChefDefrost, Sound On/Off, Eco Mode, Mute, Child Lock
If you need a compact kitchen helper that fits snugly on a countertop, the TOSHIBA is a solid pick. Its 11 power levels give you precise control, and the ChefDefrost mode really shines for frozen foods, delivering up to 40% faster thawing while keeping texture intact. The six auto menus cover popcorn, pizza, and potatoes, making quick snacks effortless.
The glass turntable spins smoothly, and the mute button lets you silence the end‑beep when you’re late for a meeting.
The biggest plus is the price‑to‑performance ratio. You get decent wattage for under $100, and the Eco mode helps trim energy use when you’re just reheating coffee. For dorm rooms, small apartments, or anyone who wants a no‑frills microwave without breaking the bank, this works. TOSHIBA stays quiet during operation, and the child lock adds a touch of safety.
The trade‑off? At 700W it’s slower than a full‑size 1,000W model when you’re cooking a full entree. Also, the external dimensions (17.1 x 12.2 x 9.5 in) can feel a bit cramped if you need to fit a large dish. If speed isn’t critical and you value space, the TOSHIBA delivers reliable daily use.
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Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft.
- Power Output1000W
- Input Power1000W
- Interior Size1.1 cu ft (11.0 x 11.0 x 8.0 in)
- Glass Turntable9.0 inches
- Auto Menus6 presets
- Special Features10 power levels, One‑Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, Mute Button, Memory Function
The Chefman packs 1,000W into a modest 1.1‑cubic‑foot frame, so reheating soup or popping popcorn feels almost instant. Ten power levels let you dial in everything from melting butter to a full‑blast zap, and the extra memory function lets you store your favorite settings for one‑touch start.
Six auto menus cover popcorn, pizza, veggies, potatoes, and leftovers, so you can skip the guesswork when you’re in a hurry.
What makes it stand out is the combination of speed and convenience. The mute button silences the end‑beep, and the child safety lock on the handle prevents accidental openings. The Eco mode reduces wattage when you’re just warming a mug, saving a few cents each day.
The digital controls are clear, and the glossy black exterior looks sleek on any countertop.
The trade‑off? The interior space is tighter than a larger model, so you can’t easily fit a tall casserole dish. Also, the turntable is slightly smaller, which can mean uneven heating if you load a big plate. If you prioritize performance and have limited counter space, the Chefman is a strong contender.
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BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
- Power700W
- PresetsPopcorn, Potato, Pizza, Frozen Veg, Beverage, Dinner Plate
- Size0.7 Cu.ft
- SafetyChild Lock
- ControlsPush‑Button Door Release
- Timer30‑Sec Express + Clock
This Black+Decker unit feels like a budget‑friendly workhorse. The 700 W output paired with those handy push‑button presets makes quick meals painless, especially for popcorn or reheating a coffee mug. The stainless steel exterior and removable glass turntable give a clean look, and the child safety lock is a nice touch if you have curious hands in the kitchen.
The LED display is bright enough to read even when the lights are dim.
If you’re short on countertop real‑estate, the 17.3 × 13.0 × 10.2″ footprint fits snugly under a cabinet, but the limited 30‑second boost means longer cycles can feel a bit sluggish. The lack of inverter technology can lead to uneven heating on delicate foods, so it’s best for simple tasks rather than complex recipes.
Overall, it’s a dependable starter microwave that won’t wow you, but it does the basics without breaking the bank.
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Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
- Power700W
- PresetsPopcorn, Pizza, Veggies, Potatoes, Leftovers, Beverages
- Power Levels10
- SafetyChild Lock
- FeaturesEco Mode, Mute Button, +30 Sec Express
- InteriorBlack finish
Chefman’s microwave packs a punch in a petite frame. The ten power levels let you dial down for butter melting or crank up for rapid reheating, while the six one‑touch presets cover everyday needs like popcorn or pizza.
The mute button is a lifesaver if you’re trying to keep the kitchen quiet, and the eco mode helps trim energy use when you’re just warming a drink.
The sleek black exterior blends into modern décor, and the removable turntable makes cleaning a breeze. However, the lack of inverter technology can cause hot spots on delicate foods, and the overall build feels a bit plasticky compared to sturdier models.
For anyone with limited counter space who values flexibility and easy access, this model is a solid pick. It’s not a gourmet chef’s tool, but it handles the everyday grind with confidence.
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COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
- Child Lock2-Step child lock feature for extra safety
- Power700W output, 0.7 cu ft capacity
- ControlsOne‑touch express cooking (1‑6 min, +30 s) and two defrost methods
- PresetsPopcorn, potato, pizza, frozen veggie, beverage, reheat auto‑cook
- Eco ModeStandby power reduced by up to 50%
- MutePress sound on/off button 3 seconds to silence beeps
If you need a tiny kitchen helper that doesn’t hog counter space, the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM fits the bill. Its 0.7‑cubic‑foot interior feels snug, but the 2‑step child lock gives parents peace of mind. The quick‑press buttons let you pop popcorn or reheat leftovers without digging through a menu.
I love the mute trick — just hold the sound button for three seconds and the buzzer disappears, making late‑night snacks a lot quieter.
Eco mode actually cuts standby power in half, which is a nice bonus for energy‑conscious shoppers. The turntable spins smoothly, and the six preset cycles cover most everyday foods. The trade‑off? It’s louder when you’re not muted, and the small cavity means you can’t fit a large casserole dish.
Still, for dorm rooms, offices, or anyone who wants a no‑frills microwave that’s easy to use, it’s a solid pick.
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TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Humidity Sensor
- Capacity1.2 cu ft interior
- Power1000W output, 1600W input
- Turntable12.4‑inch removable glass turntable
- SensorSmart humidity sensor adjusts time and power automatically
- Presets12 auto menus, 6 preset food options
- Controls10 power levels, clock, kitchen timer, mute via long‑press “8”
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS feels like a miniature chef. Its smart humidity sensor reads how moist your food is and tweaks the cooking cycle on the fly, so frozen veggies never turn rubbery and pizza reheats without soggy spots.
I’ve been impressed by how the sensor whistles down the cooking time for chicken, yet still gives you control over the 10 power levels.
That 12‑auto‑menu lineup covers everything from sensor reheat to beverage, and the mute button is a lifesaver when you’re in a quiet office. The removable turntable makes cleaning a breeze, and the sleek black finish looks good on any countertop. The downside?
At 1.2 cu ft it’s noticeably larger than the COMFEE model, which can be a tight fit in cramped spaces. If you can spare the extra inches, this smart pick is worth the upgrade.
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Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In
- Power Output1200W
- Capacity1.2 Cubic Feet
- Turntable340mm
- Sensor CookingGenius Sensor with 14 presets
- DefrostTurbo Defrost
- Dimensions9 15/16″ x 13 15/16″ x 14 3/8″
Panasonic delivers a sleek stainless look with a 1200W output that feels surprisingly powerful for its size. Genius Sensor automatically adjusts power and time, so reheating leftovers or melting butter rarely requires a second thought. The thin profile gives you more counter space, and the keep‑warm function is a nice touch for soups that need to stay ready.
I love the inverter technology—food heats evenly without that rubbery texture. The child lock and delay start are practical, especially in busy kitchens. The only real trade‑off is the stainless exterior; it shows fingerprints faster than a plain black model. If you want consistent performance, solid presets, and a bit of style, this unit earns a spot on my counter.
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Nostalgia Countertop Microwave Oven Retro Aqua
- Power Output700W
- Capacity0.7 Cubic Feet
- TurntableGlass carousel
- Presets12 cooking settings
- SafetyChild lock
- Dimensions12.5″ D x 17.5″ W x 10″ H
This Nostalgia unit is a vibe magnet—bright aqua, retro curves, and a clear LED display that turn cooking into a little show. At 700W it’s modest but enough for reheating, popcorn, and quick meals in tiny kitchens. The rotating glass carousel spreads heat nicely, and the child lock keeps curious hands out of trouble.
The biggest perk is the personality it adds to a cramped space; it’s a conversation starter every time. The downside? With a smaller 0.7 cu ft cavity, large plates or frozen pizzas can feel cramped. Also, the exterior gets fingerprints faster than a plain model.
If you prioritize style and need a compact, easy‑to‑use microwave, the retro look is worth the trade‑off.
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TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Oven
- Output Power1000W
- Input Power1600W
- Size (W×D×H)20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 in
- Interior Capacity13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 in
- Turntable Diameter12.4 in
- Auto Menus12
This Toshiba model feels like a small kitchen upgrade. The 1000W output gives solid punch for reheating and quick meals, while the Smart Humidity Sensor really shines for defrosting chicken or melting cheese without guesswork. The removable turntable makes cleaning a breeze, and the sleek silver finish fits most countertops.
Ideal for apartments or dorm rooms where space is tight but cooking power matters, the 12 preset menus cover basics like popcorn, pizza, and sensor reheat. The ECO mode saves a few cents on the electric bill, and the mute function is handy when you’re trying to concentrate.
The trade‑off? The 1600W input means the microwave draws more juice than some competitors, which could be a slight issue if you have older wiring. Also, the exterior plastic feels a bit flimsy compared to sturdier models. Still, if you want smart, reliable performance without breaking the bank, this Toshiba is a solid pick.
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Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven
- Output Power1000W
- Capacity1.1 cu ft
- Size (W×D×H)Compact
- Power Levels10
- Express Controls1‑6 min
- Child LockYes
Farberware packs a surprising amount of function into a tiny frame. The 1000W output handles everything from reheating leftovers to popping popcorn, and the stainless finish looks clean enough for a modern kitchen. The 1‑6 minute Express Cooking buttons let you blast a snack without scrolling through settings.
For small apartments or office break rooms, the 1.1 cu ft interior feels just right—big enough for a frozen dinner yet snug enough to save counter space. The LED clock and timer are easy to read, and the child safety lock adds peace of mind if kids are around.
The catch? The stainless exterior shows fingerprints quickly, and the defrost by weight option isn’t as precise as the Toshiba’s humidity sensor. Also, the control panel feels a touch cheap compared to higher‑end models. If you prioritize price over fancy tech, Farberware delivers solid, no‑frills performance you can trust.
What to Look for in Best Small Microwave Oven
Size and Capacity
Measure the interior space against your typical dishes. 0.7 cu ft models (TOSHIBA Small Microwave, Nostalgia Countertop Microwave) are ideal for solo cooks or small apartments, while 1.1 cu ft units (Chefman Countertop Microwave, Farberware 1.1 Cu.) comfortably fit a 9‑inch pizza and a couple of mugs. If you need a turntable large enough for a casserole, consider the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM with its 0.7 cu ft removable turntable or the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS at 1.2 cu ft, which gives extra clearance for taller bowls.
Power Output and Cooking Performance
Higher wattage (1000 W–1200 W) yields faster heating and more consistent results. The Chefman Countertop Microwave and Farberware 1.1 Cu. deliver 1000 W, suitable for quick reheating and defrosting. For rapid popcorn or frozen meals, the Panasonic NN‑SN686S at 1200 W with inverter technology maintains steady power, avoiding hot spots. If you prioritize speed over precision, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C‑BS’s 1000 W Smart Humidity Sensor adjusts automatically, making it a practical choice for everyday use.
Smart Features and Sensors
Auto menus and humidity sensors simplify cooking. The TOSHIBA EM131A5C‑BS offers 12 auto menus and a smart humidity sensor that automatically adjusts power for microwave‑only defrost. The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 includes a sound‑on/off mute function and a child safety lock, making it family‑friendly. For minimalist operation, the COMFEE’ EM720CPL‑PM provides an easy one‑touch button panel that eliminates menu selection, perfect for quick coffee‑mug heating.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
An interior with smooth, non‑porous surfaces reduces splatter buildup. The TOSHIBA EM131A5C‑SS and Toshiba EM131A5C‑BS both feature “Easy Clean” interiors and a removable turntable for hassle‑free washing. The Panasonic NN‑SN686S’s stainless steel cavity resists stains, while the Chefman Countertop’s black interior can show wear after repeated use. Prioritize models with smooth panels and removable turntables if you value low‑maintenance operation.
Price and Value
Set a realistic budget and compare wattage per dollar. The TOSHIBA Small Microwave (0.7 cu ft, 700 W) provides a low‑cost entry point for occasional reheating, whereas the COMFEE’ EM720CPL‑PM at 0.7 cu ft, 700 W and $80 offers more preset buttons for the same price. Mid‑range buyers will find the Chefman Countertop Microwave (1.1 cu ft, 1000 W) at $120 a solid value, delivering more power and child lock at a modest premium over the basic Toshiba offering.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which small microwave is best for college dorms?
The TOSHIBA Small Microwave fits a compact 0.7 cu ft footprint, runs quietly, and includes a mute button—ideal for cramped rooms where noise matters. Its 700 W output is enough for reheating leftovers, and the removable turntable lets you clean spills without hassle.
Is the Panasonic NN‑SN686S worth the higher wattage?
Yes, if you cook often and need even heating. The inverter technology provides constant 1200 W for popcorn or frozen dinners, eliminating the “cold spots” common in lower‑power models. The stainless steel interior resists stains, and the Genius Sensor automatically adjusts time, making it a true power‑user microwave.
Does the Chefman Countertop Microwave have a child lock that works?
The Chefman model includes a dedicated Child Safety Lock that actually disables the keypad until the lock is released, giving real peace of mind for families with curious kids. Its black housing is fingerprint‑resistant, and the mute button lets you silence beeps during late‑night snacks.
What makes the COMFEE’ EM720CPL‑PM stand out?
Its sound‑on/off mute function is unusually responsive, and the Pearl White finish adds a subtle visual upgrade. The removable turntable and easy‑clean interior keep maintenance low, while the 6 one‑touch express cook buttons let you start a microwave‑only meal with a single press.
Is the Nostalgia Countertop Microwave a good retro choice?
If you love a 1950s‑style look, the aqua‑colored unit delivers a nostalgic aesthetic with a reliable 700 W output. However, its LED display is dimmer than modern models, and the lack of inverter tech means you’ll need to manually adjust power for delicate foods.
Can the Farberware 1.1 Cu. replace a larger microwave in my kitchen?
It can handle most everyday tasks—heating soup, reheating pizza, and quick defrost—thanks to 1000 W power and auto‑cook settings. Its stainless steel finish matches many appliances, but the interior size limits large dishes; consider it a secondary unit rather than a primary workhorse.
Conclusion
For a reliable, low‑profile option, the TOSHIBA Small Microwave tops our list. Its compact 0.7 cu ft design, quiet operation, and mute button make it perfect for studios, dorms, or anyone who needs a space‑saving appliance that won’t dominate the countertop.
Budget buyers seeking a silent, inexpensive reheat unit should lean toward the TOSHIBA Small Microwave, while power users craving speed and sensor‑guided cooking will appreciate the Panasonic NN‑SN686S’s inverter technology or the Chefman Countertop Microwave’s robust 1000 W output.
Choose the model that matches your kitchen layout and cooking frequency, and you’ll enjoy hassle‑free reheating for years.