Living in apartments or compact homes often means prioritizing space-saving appliances. This guide highlights five compact microwaves designed for small spaces, balancing power, preset options, safety features, and ease of use. Each model helps you cook quickly without taking over your counter. The included buying guide compares important factors such as capacity, power, turntable size, and automatic settings to help you choose the right fit for dorms, studios, or tight kitchens.
| Product | Brand | Capacity | Power | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave | TOSHIBA | 0.9 Cu Ft | 900W | View on Amazon |
| Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. | Chefman | 0.7 Cu Ft | 700W | View on Amazon |
| Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave | Farberware | 0.7 Cu Ft | 700W | View on Amazon |
| BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven | BLACK+DECKER | 0.7 Cu Ft | 700W | View on Amazon |
| TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave | TOSHIBA | 1.2 Cu Ft | 1000W | View on Amazon |
Note: Prices may vary by seller and over time. This guide focuses on features that matter most for small-space use, such as compact footprint, turntable size, and simple controls.
TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave
This compact unit offers 0.9 cu ft of interior space and a 10.6-inch removable glass turntable, suitable for small apartments. It delivers 900 watts of microwave output with a 1400-watt input, ensuring quick reheating and cooking. With six preset menus, you can quickly prepare common foods like popcorn, pizza, and potatoes without manual timing. A two-step child lock adds safety, making it a practical choice for households with kids. The exterior dimensions (approximately 18.7 x 14.7 x 10.7 inches) keep it from overpowering a tight counter, while LED lighting provides clear visibility inside the cavity.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
This 0.7 cu ft microwave packs 700 watts and 10 power levels into a compact form. It includes six one-touch presets (popcorn, beverages, vegetables, potatoes, pizza, leftovers) for quick meals. The digital controls make it easy to fine-tune time and power, while the Eco or energy-saving mode helps reduce standby consumption. A mute option and child safety lock add convenience and safety in shared kitchens. Its small footprint makes it a strong option for dorm rooms or office break rooms where counter space is at a premium.
Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave
With 700 watts of power and 0.7 cu ft capacity, this Farberware model is designed for limited-space kitchens. It offers ten power levels and six one-touch options (including popcorn, potato, and pizza), along with a defrost feature by weight or time. The compact interior is paired with an easy-to-clean exterior, making it a practical solution for apartments, offices, or shared living spaces where simple operation matters as much as performance.
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave
This 0.7 cu ft BLACK+DECKER model offers 700 watts across 10 power settings, with a large LED display and a programmable control panel. It includes a 10-inch glass turntable and a child safety lock, making it suitable for dorm rooms or small apartments where basic cooking presets and reliable performance are valued. The door uses a push-button mechanism for easy access, and the interior lighting helps monitor meals without opening the door repeatedly.
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave
Offering 1.2 cu ft of space and 1000 watts, this model balances larger capacity with an efficient footprint. It includes a smart humidity sensor that adjusts cook time and power for consistent results and six preset menus for common items like pizza and reheat options. The 12.4-inch turntable supports larger plateware while remaining within a compact external size, suited for small kitchens that still need versatile cooking options.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Size and footprint: Measure counter space and compare exterior dimensions to ensure the microwave fits without crowding nearby appliances.
- Interior capacity: For quick meals, 0.7 to 1.2 cubic feet is common in compact models. Consider whether you need to accommodate larger plates or bowls.
- Power and efficiency: Higher wattage (700–1000W) reduces cooking times, but may draw more electricity. Look for energy-saving modes if available.
- Turntable and interior layout: A larger turntable (e.g., 10–12 inches) can handle bigger dishware; a flatbed option saves vertical space but may limit dish sizes.
- Presets and controls: One-touch presets simplify common tasks. Digital controls offer precise timing, while mute functions and child locks add practicality in crowded homes.
- Safety features: Child safety lock, door design, and sturdy construction contribute to safe use in homes with kids or shared spaces.
- Sensor features: Humidity or sensor-cook technology can improve outcomes for reheating and cooking evenly, reducing guesswork.
- Durability and warranty: Check materials (stainless steel interiors are easier to clean) and warranty terms for long-term use in a busy kitchen.
The five models above cover a range of needs in small spaces: from ultra-compact dorm-friendly units to slightly larger options with sensors and more flexible presets. When choosing, prioritize interior capacity that fits your typical dishes, a power level that suits your cooking style, and safety features that align with household needs.