Tired of a bulky microwave taking up precious counter space? Imagine a kitchen where every inch is used wisely. Many people dream of a more organized kitchen, but finding the right microwave can be a real headache. You want something that fits perfectly, looks good, and still cooks your food fast. It’s frustrating when you can’t find a microwave that tucks away neatly without sacrificing performance.
That’s where the corner microwave shines! These clever appliances are designed to fit into those often-unused corner spots in your kitchen. They free up your countertops and can make your kitchen feel much bigger and tidier. But with so many models out there, how do you pick the best one for your home? We know it can feel overwhelming, and you might worry about getting one that’s too small or not powerful enough.
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about corner microwaves. We’ll help you understand what to look for, compare different features, and find a model that will make your kitchen life easier. Get ready to discover how a corner microwave can transform your cooking space and solve those pesky kitchen clutter problems!
Our Top 5 Corner Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Corner Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
Rating: 9.0/10
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens is a powerful and smart kitchen helper. It boasts 1000 watts of cooking power, perfect for quickly heating up leftovers or cooking meals. Its 1.2 cubic feet of space fits most standard dishes, and the generous 12.4-inch turntable ensures even heating. This microwave makes cooking simpler with its smart humidity sensor that automatically adjusts settings for perfect results every time.
What We Like:
- The Smart Humidity Sensor takes the guesswork out of cooking, preventing overcooked or undercooked food.
- It offers 10 different power levels, giving you lots of control for various cooking tasks.
- The Mute Function is a thoughtful addition for those who prefer a quieter kitchen.
- Easy Defrost and One-touch Start features make quick meals super convenient.
- The ECO Mode helps save energy when the microwave isn’t in use.
- The Easy Clean Interior means less scrubbing after cooking.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has 6 preset menus, some users might prefer a wider variety or more customizable options.
- The external dimensions are on the larger side, so measure your counter space carefully.
This TOSHIBA microwave is a solid choice for anyone seeking convenience and smart cooking features. It simplifies meal preparation and offers great control over your cooking.
2. Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 Retro Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.2/10
Step back in time with the Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 Retro Microwave Oven, a charming addition to any kitchen in a vibrant Bebop Blue. This compact 0.7 cu. ft. microwave packs a punch with 700 watts of cooking power and a stylish pull handle design. It’s perfect for reheating leftovers, defrosting frozen foods, or quickly preparing snacks.
What We Like:
- The retro design and Bebop Blue color add a fun, nostalgic flair to your kitchen.
- It offers 6 variable power levels, giving you control for different cooking needs.
- The interior light lets you check on your food without opening the door, saving heat.
- A child lock feature provides peace of mind, preventing accidental use.
- Defrosting by time or weight makes preparing frozen meals simple and effective.
- The 360° rotating glass turntable ensures food heats evenly for better results.
- The easy-to-read LED display shows cooking time clearly and signals completion with beeps.
What Could Be Improved:
- At 700 watts, it might be slower for larger cooking tasks compared to higher wattage microwaves.
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity is a bit small for very large dishes or multiple items at once.
This Galanz retro microwave is a delightful blend of vintage style and modern convenience. It’s a great choice for smaller kitchens or anyone looking for a microwave that’s both functional and a statement piece.
3. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 9.0/10
Meet the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven, a sleek and powerful appliance designed for modern living. Its black stainless steel finish adds a touch of style to any kitchen, while its compact 0.9 cu ft size makes it ideal for apartments and small spaces. This microwave is packed with features to make your cooking easier and safer.
What We Like:
- The 900W microwave output power heats food quickly and efficiently.
- Six handy preset menus, including popcorn and potato, take the guesswork out of cooking common items.
- Eleven different power levels give you control over how your food is cooked, from gentle warming to boiling.
- The mute function lets you silence the end-of-cooking beep, so you won’t disturb others.
- A two-step child lock keeps little hands from accidentally turning the microwave on.
- The bright LED lighting inside makes it easy to see your food as it cooks.
- The 10.6-inch removable glass turntable is easy to clean and fits many common dishes.
- Easy defrost options by weight or time save you time when preparing frozen meals.
- One-touch start lets you quickly begin cooking for up to 6 minutes at full power.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the external dimensions are compact, the internal capacity is 0.9 cu ft, which might be small for very large dishes.
- The input power of 1400 watts is higher than the output, which is typical for microwaves but worth noting for energy consumption.
This TOSHIBA microwave is a fantastic option for anyone needing a reliable and feature-rich appliance without taking up too much space. It offers convenience and safety in a stylish package.
4. Nostalgia Retro Microwave Oven – 0.7 Cu Ft
Rating: 9.1/10
Bring a touch of vintage charm to your kitchen with the Nostalgia Retro Microwave Oven. This 0.7 cu. ft. countertop microwave combines a classic look with modern convenience. Its powerful 700-watt heating element cooks food quickly. The digital clock and bright white finish add a stylish flair to any space.
What We Like:
- The 700-watt oven heats food fast.
- Its 0.7 cu. ft. size is perfect for small kitchens or dorm rooms.
- The rotating glass turntable makes sure food cooks evenly.
- Eight auto-cook programs and express cooking make meal prep simple.
- Ten power levels give you great control over cooking.
- The child safety lock adds peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be too small for larger families or big dishes.
- Some users might prefer more advanced features found in larger microwaves.
This microwave is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a blend of style and functionality. It makes everyday cooking and reheating a breeze.
5. COMMERCIAL CHEF 0.6 Cubic Foot Microwave with 6 Power Levels
Rating: 8.7/10
The COMMERCIAL CHEF 0.6 Cubic Foot Microwave is a white countertop microwave that’s designed for quick and easy meal preparation. It boasts 700 watts of power and a compact 0.6 cubic foot capacity, making it a good fit for smaller kitchens or dorm rooms. This microwave is all about simplicity, featuring mechanical dial controls and a push-button door for straightforward operation. It’s built to heat up your favorite meals, snacks, and drinks in a flash, helping you save precious time during your busy day.
What We Like:
- It’s powerful enough to cook many different foods quickly.
- It offers six different heating levels, so you can choose the best setting.
- The mechanical dial timer is easy to understand and use.
- The push-button door makes it simple to open and close.
- Its compact size is great for saving counter space.
- It heats food fast, which is perfect for busy people.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.6 cubic foot capacity might be too small for larger dishes or family-sized meals.
- While simple, some users might prefer digital controls for more precise timing.
This COMMERCIAL CHEF microwave is a practical choice for anyone needing a no-fuss appliance for fast heating. It delivers on its promise of speed and ease of use, making it a handy addition to any kitchen.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Maximizing Your Kitchen Space with a Corner Microwave
Tired of your countertop feeling cramped? A corner microwave might be the perfect solution! These smart appliances tuck neatly into an unused corner, freeing up valuable prep space. This guide helps you pick the best one for your kitchen.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a corner microwave, several features make a big difference.
- Size and Capacity: Microwaves come in different sizes. Measure your corner space carefully. Also, think about what you’ll cook. A small microwave is fine for reheating leftovers. A larger one is better for cooking meals or fitting bigger dishes.
- Wattage: This tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most microwaves are between 700 and 1200 watts. For everyday use, 900 watts is a good starting point.
- Turntable: A turntable spins your food. This helps it cook evenly. Most corner microwaves have one. Some have a larger, removable turntable for easier cleaning.
- Cooking Presets: Many microwaves have buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or baked potatoes. These presets take the guesswork out of cooking.
- Defrost Settings: This feature lets you quickly thaw frozen foods. It’s a real time-saver.
- Child Lock: If you have little ones, a child lock prevents accidental starts.
- Ventilation: Some corner microwaves have built-in fans. These help remove steam and odors from your cooking.
2. Important Materials
The materials used in a microwave affect its look and how well it lasts.
- Exterior: Most microwaves have a stainless steel or plastic exterior. Stainless steel looks sleek and is durable. Plastic is often cheaper but can scratch or discolor over time.
- Interior: The inside of a microwave is usually made of painted metal or ceramic enamel. Ceramic enamel is very durable, easy to clean, and resists scratches and stains. Painted metal is more common but can chip or scratch.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain things make a corner microwave better or worse.
- Build Quality: A well-built microwave feels sturdy. The door should open and close smoothly. Buttons should be responsive. Cheaper models might feel flimsy.
- Brand Reputation: Trusted brands often make better products. They usually offer good warranties and customer support. Researching brands can save you trouble later.
- Ease of Cleaning: A microwave that’s easy to wipe down is a joy to use. Removable turntables and smooth interior surfaces help a lot.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves are louder than others. If your kitchen is near living areas, a quieter model might be worth the extra cost.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your microwave matters.
- Small Kitchens: Corner microwaves are ideal for small kitchens. They use space that often goes to waste. This keeps your countertops clear for cooking and preparing food.
- Quick Meals and Reheating: Need to heat up last night’s dinner fast? A microwave is your best friend. Corner models do this just as well as regular ones.
- Snack Prep: Popcorn, reheating coffee, or making instant oatmeal are common uses. A corner microwave handles these tasks efficiently.
- Supplemental Cooking: While not a replacement for a full oven, microwaves can cook certain items quickly. Think steaming vegetables or baking a potato.
Frequently Asked Questions about Corner Microwaves
Q: What is the main advantage of a corner microwave?
A: The main advantage is that it saves counter space by fitting into an unused kitchen corner. This frees up your countertops.
Q: How do I measure my corner space for a microwave?
A: Measure the width along each wall from the corner. Also, measure how far out you want the microwave to extend. Check the microwave’s dimensions before buying.
Q: Are corner microwaves hard to install?
A: Most corner microwaves are designed to sit on a countertop. They don’t require special installation. Just plug them in!
Q: What wattage is good for a corner microwave?
A: For most everyday tasks like reheating and defrosting, 900 watts is a good power level. More wattage means faster cooking.
Q: Do corner microwaves come with a turntable?
A: Yes, almost all corner microwaves come with a turntable. This helps your food cook more evenly.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my corner microwave?
A: You can clean the inside with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tough stains, heat a bowl of water with lemon juice for a few minutes, then wipe clean.
Q: Can I put a regular microwave in a corner?
A: You can, but it might not fit as neatly or look as good. Corner microwaves are shaped specifically to fit into corners.
Q: Are corner microwaves more expensive than regular ones?
A: Sometimes they can be slightly more expensive due to their specialized design. However, the price difference is often small.
Q: What if I need to cook a large dish?
A: Check the internal dimensions of the corner microwave. Some larger models can fit bigger plates and dishes, but always measure first.
Q: Where can I buy a corner microwave?
A: You can find corner microwaves at most major appliance stores and online retailers. Look for them in the microwave section.
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.