Ever stared at your kitchen counter, wishing for a little magic that could heat up your leftovers in a flash or pop some popcorn for movie night? You’re not alone! In today’s busy world, a trusty microwave is a kitchen essential. But when it comes to finding the perfect *small* countertop microwave oven, the choices can feel overwhelming. Do you need a powerhouse for quick meals, or something sleek and compact for a tiny space? It’s easy to get lost in all the features and sizes!
Choosing the right small countertop microwave can be tricky. You want something that fits your space, cooks your food well, and doesn’t break the bank. But how do you know which one is best? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! This post will help you understand what really matters when picking out this handy appliance.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly what to look for. We’ll explore the key features, different sizes, and helpful tips to make sure you find a small countertop microwave that’s just right for your kitchen and your needs. Get ready to make your kitchen life a little easier and a lot tastier!
Our Top 5 Small Countertop Microwave Oven Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Small Countertop Microwave Oven Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 9.1/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a handy kitchen helper. It’s just the right size for many kitchens and can heat up your snacks or meals quickly. The stainless steel look makes it stylish, and it’s easy to clean. This microwave has smart buttons that know how to cook common foods like popcorn or pizza with just one touch. It’s designed to be safe for families with a special lock for kids.
What We Like:
- It has pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, frozen veggies, drinks, and dinner plates.
- The 30-second express cooking button is super fast.
- It has 10 different power levels, so you can cook things just right.
- The large digital display is easy to see and read.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands from starting it by accident.
- The glass turntable inside is removable and easy to clean.
- The push-button door opens easily.
- It has a sleek stainless steel finish.
What Could Be Improved:
- It has a 0.7 cubic foot capacity, which might be small for larger dishes or families.
- The 700-watt cooking power is standard but might not cook as fast as higher-wattage microwaves.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly appliance. It makes heating up food simple and safe for everyone.
2. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 9.3/10
Meet the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven, a compact powerhouse designed to simplify your kitchen tasks. This sleek black microwave offers 700 watts of cooking power and a 0.7 cubic foot capacity, making it ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices. With its intuitive digital controls, multiple power levels, and handy presets, it makes heating up leftovers or preparing quick meals a breeze.
What We Like:
- It cooks food extra-quick with six popular presets like popcorn, pizza, and veggies.
- You can choose from 10 power levels, from low to high, for perfect cooking every time.
- The digital controls are easy to use, and the +30 seconds button is super convenient.
- The memory function lets you save your favorite cooking settings for one-touch starts.
- Safety is a priority with a child safety lock and a lock mode for the control panel.
- The mute option lets you silence annoying beeps, perfect for quiet mornings or late nights.
- Its modern, compact design fits well in any kitchen and is easy to clean.
- The glass turntable is top-rack dishwasher safe for effortless cleanup.
- It’s cETL approved and backed by Chefman’s trusted quality and a 1-year assurance.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic foot capacity might be a bit small for larger families or cooking big meals.
- While powerful, 700 watts might be slightly less powerful than some higher-end models for very fast cooking.
This Chefman microwave is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a user-friendly and efficient countertop appliance. Its blend of convenience features and safety options makes it a reliable addition to any kitchen.
3. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 9.2/10
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) is a compact microwave that’s great for small spaces like apartments or dorm rooms. It comes in a stylish stainless steel finish and has a 0.9 cubic foot capacity, which is a good size for most everyday needs. This microwave heats food quickly with its 900-watt power, and the 10.6-inch turntable fits most plates and bowls.
What We Like:
- It has 6 helpful preset menus for common foods like popcorn and potatoes.
- You can adjust the cooking power with 11 different levels for more control.
- The Mute Mode lets you turn off the beeping sound, which is nice for quiet mornings or late nights.
- A Two-Step Child Lock feature keeps little ones safe by preventing accidental use.
- The LED lighting inside makes it easy to see your food as it cooks.
- Defrosting is simple with options for time or weight.
- One-touch start lets you quickly cook for up to 6 minutes at full power.
What Could Be Improved:
- The external dimensions might be a bit wide for some very tight counter spaces.
- While it has many features, the interface might take a moment to get used to for some users.
This TOSHIBA microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and feature-rich appliance that doesn’t take up too much room. It offers convenience and safety for busy individuals and families.
4. Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power
Rating: 8.9/10
Meet the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven, your new kitchen helper for fast and easy meals. This sleek stainless steel microwave packs a punch with 700 watts of power, making it perfect for busy households or small spaces. It’s designed to simplify your cooking with smart settings and a user-friendly interface.
What We Like:
- It’s super powerful with 700 watts for quick cooking.
- It has lots of helpful settings like auto cook and defrost.
- You can pick from ten different power levels for total control.
- Six one-touch options, like popcorn and pizza, make cooking a breeze.
- Its compact 0.7 cu ft size fits perfectly on any countertop without taking up too much room.
- The inside and outside are easy to wipe clean.
- A clear LED display shows the time and has a kitchen timer.
- The child safety lock gives you peace of mind.
- Farberware is a trusted brand that helps families make delicious memories.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for small spaces, it might be too small for very large dishes or family-sized meals.
- The 700-watt power is good, but more powerful microwaves can cook even faster.
This Farberware microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and reliability. It’s a smart choice for anyone needing a compact and effective cooking solution.
5. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
Rating: 9.1/10
Meet the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS, a 1.2 cubic foot countertop microwave that makes cooking easy and smart. Its sleek black design fits well in any kitchen. This microwave is packed with features to help you prepare your favorite meals quickly and perfectly.
What We Like:
- The 1000-watt power cooks food fast.
- Smart Humidity Sensor automatically adjusts cooking for perfect results. No more dry or undercooked food!
- It has 6 preset menus for common foods like pizza and vegetables.
- You get 10 power levels for lots of cooking choices.
- Defrosting is simple by weight or time.
- One-touch start quickly heats food for 1 to 6 minutes.
- The Mute Mode lets you turn off the annoying buzzer. Just press and hold the “8” button.
- An ECO Mode helps save energy.
- The interior is easy to clean.
- The large 12.4-inch glass turntable fits big plates.
What Could Be Improved:
- The external dimensions are a bit large, so measure your counter space.
- While there are 6 preset menus, some users might wish for more variety.
This Toshiba microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering smart features and great performance. It’s a reliable choice for everyday cooking needs.
Your Guide to Finding the Best Small Countertop Microwave
Picking the right small countertop microwave can make your kitchen life easier. These handy appliances reheat leftovers, cook quick meals, and even defrost frozen food. Let’s dive into what you need to know to make a smart choice.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep these important features in mind:
- Wattage: This tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most small microwaves are between 700 and 1000 watts. Aim for at least 900 watts for good performance.
- Capacity (Cubic Feet): This is the inside space of the microwave. Small microwaves usually range from 0.5 to 1.0 cubic feet. A 0.7 cubic foot model is often a good size for one or two people. It fits a standard dinner plate.
- Turntable: A rotating glass plate helps food cook evenly. Most small microwaves have this. Make sure it’s easy to remove for cleaning.
- Preset Cooking Programs: Many microwaves have buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or baked potatoes. These take the guesswork out of cooking.
- Digital Display and Controls: A clear digital screen and easy-to-use buttons make operating the microwave simple. Look for responsive buttons.
- Child Lock: This safety feature prevents little hands from accidentally turning the microwave on.
Important Materials
The materials used in a microwave affect its durability and how well it works.
- Exterior: Most small microwaves have a stainless steel or plastic exterior. Stainless steel looks sleek and is generally more durable. Plastic is lighter and often cheaper.
- Interior: The inside is usually coated with a non-stick material like enamel or a ceramic coating. These are easy to wipe clean. Avoid microwaves with interiors that look like they will scratch easily.
- Turntable: The turntable is almost always made of tempered glass. This type of glass is strong and can handle heat.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a microwave better, while others make it less good.
- Improvements:
- Even Cooking: A good microwave distributes heat well. This means your food won’t have hot or cold spots.
- Quiet Operation: A high-quality microwave won’t make a lot of noise when it’s running.
- Durability: Well-built microwaves last longer. They feel sturdy and don’t rattle.
- Ease of Cleaning: Non-stick interiors and removable turntables make cleanup a breeze.
- Reductions:
- Uneven Heating: This is a big quality issue. Food cooks poorly.
- Flimsy Construction: If the microwave feels light or the door is hard to open, it might not be well-made.
- Difficult Controls: Confusing buttons or a hard-to-read display make the microwave frustrating to use.
- Short Lifespan: Microwaves that break down quickly are a waste of money.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your microwave. This helps you choose the right size and features.
- For Dorm Rooms or Small Apartments: A compact, 0.5 to 0.7 cubic foot microwave is perfect. It takes up little counter space and is great for reheating single servings of food or making instant meals.
- For Busy Individuals or Couples: A slightly larger model, around 0.9 to 1.0 cubic feet, offers more flexibility. You can heat larger plates of food or cook small dishes. Preset functions are a lifesaver when you’re short on time.
- For Quick Snacks: Need to pop some popcorn or heat up a mug cake? Any small microwave can handle this. Look for a dedicated popcorn button if you make it often.
- For Defrosting: If you often forget to take food out of the freezer, a reliable defrost setting is essential. It thaws food quickly and evenly.
A small countertop microwave is a valuable kitchen tool. By considering these features, materials, quality factors, and your own needs, you can find one that fits perfectly into your life.
Frequently Asked Questions about Small Countertop Microwaves
Q: What is the best wattage for a small countertop microwave?
A: For most small microwaves, 700 to 1000 watts is a good range. Aim for at least 900 watts if you want faster cooking.
Q: How big is a small countertop microwave?
A: Small microwaves typically have an interior capacity of 0.5 to 1.0 cubic feet. A 0.7 cubic foot model is often a good size for one or two people.
Q: Do I need a turntable in my microwave?
A: Yes, a turntable is important. It rotates your food to ensure it cooks evenly on all sides.
Q: What does “preset cooking programs” mean?
A: Preset cooking programs are buttons on the microwave that are set for cooking specific foods, like popcorn or pizza. They take the guesswork out of cooking times and power levels.
Q: Is stainless steel better than plastic for a microwave exterior?
A: Stainless steel is usually more durable and looks more premium. Plastic is lighter and often more affordable.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my microwave?
A: Most microwave interiors have a non-stick coating. You can usually wipe them clean with a damp cloth and mild soap. Removable turntables can be washed in the sink or dishwasher.
Q: What are “hot spots” in a microwave?
A: Hot spots are areas inside the microwave where food cooks faster or gets hotter than other areas. This happens when the microwave doesn’t distribute heat evenly.
Q: Can a small microwave defrost food?
A: Yes, most small microwaves have a defrost setting. This setting uses lower power to thaw food without cooking it.
Q: How long do small countertop microwaves usually last?
A: With proper care, a good quality small microwave can last for 5 to 10 years.
Q: What is a “child lock” feature?
A: A child lock is a safety feature that prevents the microwave from being turned on accidentally by children. You usually have to press a specific button combination to activate or deactivate it.
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.