Ever feel like your kitchen is shrinking? Maybe you’re living in a cozy apartment, a dorm room, or just want a little extra counter space. You still need to heat up leftovers or make a quick snack, but a full-sized microwave just won’t cut it. Finding the perfect small microwave can feel like a treasure hunt, and it’s tough to know which one is truly the best for your needs.
The struggle is real! You want something that heats food well, doesn’t take up much room, and won’t break the bank. But all those options with different wattages, sizes, and features can be confusing. You might end up with a microwave that’s too big, too weak, or just not what you expected. That’s why we’re diving deep into the world of the smallest microwaves.
In this post, we’ll explore the top contenders, highlight what makes them stand out, and help you figure out exactly what to look for. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of the best compact microwaves available. Get ready to find the perfect tiny powerhouse for your kitchen!
Our Top 5 Smallest Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Smallest Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 9.1/10
Meet the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven – your new kitchen sidekick! This compact 0.7 cu. ft. microwave packs a punch with 700 watts of power, making it a speedy solution for heating up meals or snacks. Its sleek black design fits right in with any kitchen décor.
What We Like:
- Quick & Easy Cooking: Six handy presets like popcorn, pizza, and veggies take the guesswork out of cooking. You can also just type in the minutes you need.
- Adjustable Power: Ten power levels let you go from gently melting butter to super-fast cooking.
- Simple Controls: The digital display makes it easy to set time and power. The +30 seconds button is great for adding a little extra cooking time.
- Memory Function: Save your favorite cooking settings for one-touch starts. This makes reheating leftovers a breeze.
- Safety Features: A child safety lock keeps the door shut tight. You can also lock the control panel so little hands can’t change the settings.
- Quiet Operation: The mute button lets you turn off those annoying beeps, perfect for quiet mornings or late-night snacks.
- Stylish & Smart: Its modern look complements your kitchen. Eco Mode helps save energy and dims the display.
- Easy Cleanup: The exterior wipes clean easily. The glass turntable goes right in the dishwasher.
- Reliable Quality: Chefman offers trusted quality with cETL approval and a 1-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be a bit small for larger dishes or families.
- While powerful for its size, it may not cook as quickly as larger, higher-wattage microwaves.
This Chefman microwave is a fantastic choice for anyone needing a reliable, user-friendly appliance for quick meals and snacks. It offers great features in a compact package.
2. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 9.1/10
Meet the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven, your new kitchen helper! This shiny stainless steel microwave is compact, fitting perfectly on your counter at 0.7 cubic feet. It’s designed for simple everyday cooking and reheating. With 700 watts of power and 10 different settings, you have control over your cooking. Plus, it has handy pre-programmed buttons for things like popcorn and pizza, making meal prep a breeze. The push-button door makes it easy to get your food in and out, and the child safety lock gives you peace of mind.
What We Like:
- It’s super easy to use with its clear LED display and simple control panel.
- The pre-programmed buttons are a lifesaver for quick meals like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- The 30-second express cooking button is great for fast reheating.
- It has a child safety lock, keeping little hands safe.
- The removable glass turntable is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
- The push-button door opens smoothly for easy access.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might wish for a slightly larger capacity microwave.
- While it handles basic tasks well, it might not be the best choice for complex cooking.
This microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly appliance for everyday kitchen tasks. Its simple design and helpful features make it a great addition to any home.
3. Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 Retro Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.3/10
The Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 Retro Microwave Oven in Bebop Blue brings a splash of vintage style to your kitchen while offering modern convenience. Its compact 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and 700-watt power make it ideal for quick meals and reheating. The retro pull handle design adds a charming touch, and the LED lighting inside lets you peek at your food without opening the door. Plus, the handy child lock feature keeps little ones safe.
What We Like:
- Stylish Retro Design: The Bebop Blue color and pull handle give it a cool, old-school look that stands out.
- Easy to Use Controls: The LED display clearly shows cooking time, and the simple controls make it easy to pick your power level.
- Even Cooking: The 360° rotating turntable ensures your food cooks evenly every time.
- Safety First: The child lock prevents accidental use, giving parents peace of mind.
- Convenient Defrosting: You can defrost by time or weight, making meal prep a breeze.
- Interior Light: Check on your food’s progress without interrupting the cooking cycle.
What Could Be Improved:
- Power Output: At 700 watts, it’s good for basic tasks, but might be slower for larger or denser items compared to higher-wattage microwaves.
- Capacity: The 0.7 cu. ft. size is great for small kitchens or single servings, but might feel a bit small for family-sized meals or larger dishes.
Overall, this Galanz microwave is a fun and functional addition to any kitchen, especially if you love a retro vibe and need a reliable appliance for everyday use.
4. COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 9.4/10
The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a smart addition to any kitchen. This 0.7 cubic foot, 700-watt microwave offers convenience and smart features. It’s designed for easy use with its simple controls and helpful functions. The black finish looks great on any countertop.
What We Like:
- The mute function lets you cook without annoying beeps, which is great for late-night snacks or when others are sleeping.
- ECO Mode significantly cuts down on energy use when the microwave is not in use, saving you money.
- One-touch express cooking and easy auto-cook buttons like popcorn, potato, and pizza make meal prep quick and simple.
- The child safety lock provides peace of mind for families with young children.
- The bright digital display and clear control panel are very easy to read and operate.
- A 10-inch glass turntable rotates your food evenly for better cooking results.
- It comes with a one-year limited warranty for added assurance.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has defrost by weight or time, some users might prefer more advanced defrost options.
- The 0.7 cubic foot size might be a bit small for larger families or for heating very big dishes.
This COMFEE’ microwave offers excellent value with its user-friendly design and energy-saving features. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and quiet countertop microwave.
5. Nostalgia Retro 700W Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu Ft Capacity – Child Safety Lock
Rating: 9.1/10
Bring a touch of vintage charm to your kitchen with the Nostalgia Retro 700W Microwave Oven. This ivory countertop appliance combines classic style with modern convenience, making it a delightful addition to any home. It’s perfect for reheating leftovers, cooking quick meals, and defrosting ingredients with ease.
What We Like:
- The 700-watt power quickly heats your food.
- Its 0.7 cu. ft. capacity fits many dishes.
- The rotating glass turntable ensures even cooking.
- Eight auto-cook programs and express cooking make meal prep simple.
- Ten power levels give you great control over your cooking.
- The two-step door safety feature helps keep little ones safe.
- The ivory color adds a stylish retro look to your kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- The compact size might not be ideal for very large meals or multiple dishes at once.
- While the retro design is appealing, some users might prefer a more modern aesthetic.
This Nostalgia microwave offers a fantastic blend of retro style and practical features. It’s a user-friendly option for anyone looking for a reliable and attractive countertop microwave.
Finding the Tiniest Kitchen Hero: Your Guide to the Smallest Microwaves
Sometimes, you just need a little help heating up leftovers or making a quick snack. But if you live in a cozy apartment, have a tiny kitchen, or just want a microwave that won’t hog counter space, a full-sized model is a no-go. That’s where the smallest microwaves shine! These mini marvels offer convenience without the bulk. Let’s dive into finding the perfect one for you.
1. Key Features to Look For
Compact Size is King
This is the most important feature for a “smallest microwave.” Measure your available space carefully. Look at the microwave’s width, depth, and height. Even a few inches can make a big difference.
Wattage Matters (for Cooking Power)
Microwaves use wattage to heat food. Smaller microwaves might have lower wattage (around 700 watts). This means they might take a little longer to cook or heat things compared to bigger ones. For simple tasks like reheating, lower wattage is usually fine.
Capacity (Cubic Feet)
This tells you how much food can fit inside. For the smallest microwaves, you’ll see capacities around 0.5 to 0.9 cubic feet. This is enough for a small plate, a mug, or a single-serving meal.
Simple Controls
Many small microwaves have basic dial controls or a few buttons. This makes them easy to use. Look for clear settings for power levels and cooking times.
Essential Cooking Functions
Even small microwaves can do more than just heat. Many offer preset cooking options for things like popcorn or potatoes. Some have defrost settings too.
2. Important Materials
Exterior Casing
Most small microwaves have a durable plastic or metal exterior. Stainless steel looks nice and is easy to clean, but plastic is often lighter and cheaper.
Interior Cavity
The inside of the microwave is usually coated with a material that’s easy to wipe down. This helps keep it clean from food splatters.
Glass Turntable
A glass turntable helps your food cook evenly. Make sure it’s easy to remove and wash.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Brand Reputation
Well-known appliance brands often make more reliable products. They might also offer better warranties.
Build Quality
A well-built microwave will feel sturdy. The door should open and close smoothly. The buttons should feel responsive.
Ease of Cleaning
Look for smooth interior surfaces and a removable turntable. This makes cleaning up spills a breeze.
Noise Level
Some microwaves can be quite loud. If you’re sensitive to noise, check reviews to see if a particular model is known for being quiet.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
For Dorm Rooms and Studios
These tiny microwaves are perfect for students in dorms or anyone living in a small studio apartment. They provide essential cooking functions without taking up precious space.
For the Office Breakroom
A small microwave is great for an office breakroom where space is limited. It’s ideal for heating up lunches or making a quick cup of tea.
As a Secondary Microwave
You might already have a main microwave in your kitchen. A small one can be a handy addition for a specific task, like warming up baby food or preparing a single portion.
For RVs and Boats
Limited space is common in RVs and boats. A compact microwave offers a convenient way to prepare food on the go.
Choosing the smallest microwave means sacrificing some power and capacity, but you gain valuable counter space and a more efficient living or working environment. Think about what you’ll use it for most, measure your space, and you’ll find the perfect tiny kitchen helper!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Smallest Microwaves
Q: What is the smallest microwave size available?
A: The smallest microwaves usually have a capacity of around 0.5 cubic feet. Their external dimensions are also very compact, often fitting on a small shelf.
Q: Are small microwaves less powerful than big ones?
A: Yes, they often have lower wattage, which means they might take a bit longer to cook food. For simple reheating, this is usually not a problem.
Q: Can I fit a dinner plate in a small microwave?
A: It depends on the plate size and the microwave’s interior dimensions. Many 0.5 to 0.7 cubic feet models can fit standard dinner plates, but it’s always best to check the specific measurements.
Q: What kind of cooking can I do in a small microwave?
A: You can do basic tasks like reheating leftovers, cooking frozen meals, making popcorn, and heating up beverages. Some models offer specific preset cooking functions.
Q: Do small microwaves have a turntable?
A: Most small microwaves do have a glass turntable. This helps your food cook more evenly by rotating it during the heating process.
Q: Are small microwaves energy efficient?
A: While they use less power during operation due to lower wattage, their overall energy efficiency compared to larger microwaves can vary. Their smaller size means they consume less energy for shorter tasks.
Q: How do I clean a small microwave?
A: You clean them similarly to larger microwaves. Wipe the interior with a damp cloth and mild soap. The glass turntable can usually be washed in the sink or dishwasher.
Q: What if I need to cook something that takes longer than a few minutes?
A: For longer cooking times, a small microwave might not be ideal. You may need to cook in stages or consider a slightly larger model if that’s a frequent need.
Q: Are small microwaves noisy?
A: Noise levels can vary by brand and model. Reading reviews can help you find a quieter option if noise is a concern for you.
Q: Where is the best place to buy a small microwave?
A: You can find small microwaves at major appliance retailers, online stores like Amazon, and electronics stores. Comparing prices and reading customer reviews online can help you make the best choice.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.