The biggest mistake people make is ignoring the interior dimensions rather than just the exterior footprint. A microwave can look compact on your counter but fail to hold a standard dinner plate.
I spent time sorting through the best rated small Microwaves to help you distinguish between a useful tool and a glorified popcorn warmer. You deserve something that actually fits your habits, so read on to find your match.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize a minimum of 900 watts if you want to avoid lengthy wait times for basic tasks.
- Check the turntable diameter to ensure your favorite dinner plate spins freely without hitting the walls.
- Look for a mute button if you dislike the loud, piercing beeps that echo through your home during late-night snacks.
- Measure your available counter depth carefully, because many small units are deeper than the advertised width suggests.
- Opt for a stainless steel finish if you want to hide fingerprints and maintain a clean appearance over time.
| The Space Saver |  |
Black+Decker 0.7 Cu.Ft Stainless Microwave | Compact footprint | Easy clean stainless steel | Intuitive controls | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| The Quiet Operator |  |
Chefman 0.7 Cu.Ft Black Microwave | Silent operation mode | Versatile power levels | Express cook presets | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Energy Efficient Pick |  |
Comfee 0.7 Cu.Ft Black Microwave | Power-saving Eco mode | Simple interface | Compact design | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| The Mid-Size Master |  |
Toshiba 0.9 Cu.Ft Stainless Microwave | Extra internal room | Faster cooking speed | Modern stainless finish | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Family Sized Compact |  |
Toshiba 1.2 Cu.Ft Stainless Microwave | High cooking power | Spacious interior capacity | Professional stainless finish | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Stylish Kitchen Update |  |
Toshiba 0.9 Cu.Ft Black Stainless Microwave | Sleek dark finish | Efficient 900W power | Consistent heating results | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Robust Countertop Choice |  |
Black+Decker 1.1 Cu.Ft Stainless Microwave | Strong 1000W output | Large interior space | Durable stainless finish | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| The Reliable Workhorse |  |
Toshiba 1.2 Cu.Ft Black Microwave | High wattage power | Large cooking area | Classic black finish | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Simple Reliable Basic |  |
Toshiba 0.7 Cu.Ft Black Microwave | Extremely compact | Simple to operate | Budget-friendly size | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Balanced Performance Unit |  |
Black+Decker 0.9 Cu.Ft Stainless Microwave | Ideal mid-range size | Solid 900W power | Easy cleaning surface | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
-
Black+Decker 0.7 Cu.Ft Stainless Microwave
If your kitchen is small enough that you measure counter space in inches rather than feet, this is your best friend. Its 0.7 cubic foot footprint is tiny, yet it packs enough 700-watt power to handle daily tasks without complaint.
The stainless steel finish looks sharp and resists the usual kitchen grime. Just keep in mind that with a lower wattage, you will need to add a little extra time to your cooking cycles compared to full-sized units.
- Brand:Black+Decker
- Capacity:0.7 Cu.Ft
- Power:700W
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Color:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Child safety lock
- Additional Feature:Express cooking buttons
- Additional Feature:Removable glass turntable
-
Chefman 0.7 Cu.Ft Black Microwave
You might appreciate this one if you live in a shared space or have a light sleeper in the house. It features a handy mute button, so you don't have to wake the entire neighborhood just to heat up a snack at midnight.
It balances the compact size with 10 power levels, giving you more control over your cooking intensity than many other small units. The black finish is sleek, though it does show fingerprints more easily than stainless steel.
- Brand:Chefman
- Capacity:0.7 Cu.Ft
- Power:700W
- Color:Black
- Additional Feature:Child safety lock
- Additional Feature:Eco mode
- Additional Feature:One-touch express cooking
-
Comfee 0.7 Cu.Ft Black Microwave
This model is a solid choice if you want to keep your electricity usage down. The built-in Eco mode allows you to turn off the display screen when the microwave is not in use, which is a clever way to save a bit of energy.
It is simple to operate, making it a great utility machine for dorms or small offices. Because it is a 700-watt unit, do not expect it to power through heavy-duty defrosting as quickly as a larger oven.
- Brand:Comfee
- Capacity:0.7 Cu.Ft
- Power:700W
- Color:Black
- Additional Feature:Sound on/off function
- Additional Feature:Child safety lock
- Additional Feature:Easy-to-use buttons
-
Toshiba 0.9 Cu.Ft Stainless Microwave
If 0.7 cubic feet feels just a bit too restrictive for your dinner plates, this 0.9 cubic foot model is the perfect middle ground. You get that extra bit of internal room without turning your counter into a microwave graveyard.
The 900-watt power output is a significant step up from the smaller models, meaning your food heats up noticeably faster. It is a workhorse that fits comfortably under most standard cabinets.
- Brand:Toshiba
- Capacity:0.9 Cu.Ft
- Power:900W
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Kitchen timer
- Additional Feature:Interior light
- Additional Feature:Defrost by weight
-
Toshiba 1.2 Cu.Ft Stainless Microwave
You can stop playing Tetris with your leftovers because this model offers a generous 1.2 cubic feet of space. It is perfect if you frequently cook for more than one person and need to fit larger dishes inside.
With 1000 watts of power, it handles everything from frozen meals to popcorn with ease. While it is the largest on this list, it still maintains a clean, professional look that doesn't feel overly bulky.
- Brand:Toshiba
- Capacity:1.2 Cu.Ft
- Power:1000W
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Smart sensor cooking
- Additional Feature:Easy defrost
- Additional Feature:Multi-stage cooking
-
Toshiba 0.9 Cu.Ft Black Stainless Microwave
This version offers the same reliable 0.9 cubic feet of space as the stainless model but swaps the look for a moody, black stainless finish. It is a fantastic choice if you want your appliances to look modern and sophisticated.
The black stainless steel surface is less prone to showing smudges than traditional bright silver. It is a powerful 900-watt machine that strikes the right balance between style and function.
- Brand:Toshiba
- Capacity:0.9 Cu.Ft
- Power:900W
- Color:Black Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Soften and melt settings
- Additional Feature:One-touch popcorn
- Additional Feature:Interior light
-
Black+Decker 1.1 Cu.Ft Stainless Microwave
When you need a bit more muscle in the kitchen, this 1.1 cubic foot model provides a serious power boost. The 1000 watts of output mean you spend less time waiting and more time eating.
It is built for people who use their microwave for more than just a quick reheat. It is a bit deeper than the smaller models, so make sure you have the necessary counter depth before committing.
- Brand:Black+Decker
- Capacity:1.1 Cu.Ft
- Power:1000W
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Pre-programmed buttons
- Additional Feature:Child safety lock
- Additional Feature:Glass turntable
-
Toshiba 1.2 Cu.Ft Black Microwave
This is the black-finish version of the larger Toshiba line, and it brings the same impressive 1000-watt performance to the table. It is ideal for someone who prefers a uniform, dark aesthetic in their kitchen.
The large capacity makes it a versatile tool for everything from melting butter to steaming vegetables. It manages to feel substantial without taking over your entire workspace.
- Brand:Toshiba
- Capacity:1.2 Cu.Ft
- Power:1000W
- Color:Black
- Additional Feature:Sensor reheat
- Additional Feature:Auto defrost
- Additional Feature:Express buttons
-
Toshiba 0.7 Cu.Ft Black Microwave
Sometimes you just need a straightforward machine that does exactly what it says on the tin. This 0.7 cubic foot model is refreshingly simple, lacking overly complicated menus while still providing consistent results.
Its small size makes it a top-tier pick for tight apartments or office breakrooms. Just keep in mind that the lighter weight means you might need to hold the door handle when opening it to keep the unit from sliding.
- Brand:Toshiba
- Capacity:0.7 Cu.Ft
- Power:700W
- Color:Black
- Additional Feature:Six power levels
- Additional Feature:Easy-to-use dial
- Additional Feature:Compact footprint
-
Black+Decker 0.9 Cu.Ft Stainless Microwave
This model hits the sweet spot for many households by offering 0.9 cubic feet and 900 watts. It is the goldilocks size for people who find the smaller units too weak but the larger ones too intimidating.
The stainless steel exterior is easy to wipe down, and the interface is intuitive enough that you won't need to consult a manual. It is a dependable machine that performs its duties without any fuss.
- Brand:Black+Decker
- Capacity:0.9 Cu.Ft
- Power:900W
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Preset menu buttons
- Additional Feature:Child safety lock
- Additional Feature:Interior light
Frequently Asked Questions
How much power do I really need for daily tasks?
For simple tasks like heating soup or thawing frozen vegetables, 700 to 800 watts is plenty. You only need higher wattage if you plan to cook raw proteins or large, dense meals. Most people find that 800 watts strikes a great balance between speed and efficiency.
Can I put a small microwave inside a cabinet?
You should avoid tucking a microwave into a closed cabinet unless it is specifically designed for built-in use. These machines need adequate ventilation to prevent overheating and potential fire hazards. Always keep them on an open counter or a designated microwave shelf with space for air to move.
Will a standard dinner plate fit inside?
Most small microwaves with a 0.7 cubic foot capacity can fit a plate up to 10 inches in diameter. If you have oversized decorative plates, you might need to check the internal dimensions before buying. It is like trying to park a large SUV in a compact spot, so measure your plates first.
Why does my microwave beep constantly when finished?
Many manufacturers program an audible reminder to ensure you do not forget your food inside. If this feature annoys you, look for models that include a mute option or a setting to turn off the end-of-cycle signal. Not all small models have this, so read the manual before you settle on a purchase.
How do I clean the inside without harsh chemicals?
You can place a bowl of water with a squeeze of lemon juice inside and run it on high for three minutes. The steam will loosen stuck-on food and make the interior easy to wipe with a damp cloth. This method is far better than scrubbing at dried sauces with abrasive pads.
Jamesmathew is an expert Amazon affiliate writer, helping readers discover top products, smart deals, and practical buying guides through honest reviews and insightful content.