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10 Best Compact Microwaves 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry, Combi, Bake, Roast, and Convection Cooking, 0.9 cu. ft. Countertop Microwave, Stainless Steel, 900 Watts, Child-Lock, ES9P032NA

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,276
Cooking Functions
Power (Wattage)
Control Panel

Most important from
22347 reviews

Cooking Functions
This all-in-one appliance combines microwave, air fryer, grill, bake, and roast functions, making it a versatile kitchen essential that saves significant counter space.
Power (Wattage)
The 900-watt power level provides decent cooking speed, though it may take a bit longer compared to higher-watt models.
Control Panel
The control panel is intuitive and easy to learn, with dedicated presets that simplify cooking common foods like popcorn and pizza.
Size and Capacity
The compact size fits well in kitchens with limited space, but the 11.3-inch turntable can feel a bit small for larger dishes.
Turntable
The compact size fits well in kitchens with limited space, but the 11.3-inch turntable can feel a bit small for larger dishes.
Interior Material
The stainless steel interior is durable and easy to clean, enhancing the overall user experience.
Noise Level
The unit produces typical microwave noise but maintains a quiet operation thanks to a tight door seal.

The BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven is a versatile countertop appliance that combines microwave, air fryer, grill/convection (combi), bake, and roast functions in one compact unit. With a 0.9 cubic feet interior, it's suitable for small to medium-sized meals, fitting well in kitchens with limited space. Its 900-watt power level provides decent cooking speed, though it may take a bit longer compared to higher-watt models. The microwave offers 10 power levels and 7 auto menus designed for common foods like popcorn, frozen pizza, and vegetables, making it easier to cook everyday meals without guesswork.

One standout feature is the air fry function with 11 presets, allowing you to prepare healthier fried foods without extra oil. This adds great value for users wanting more than just microwave cooking. The control panel uses touch buttons with a child-lock feature, improving safety in homes with kids. The turntable is 11.3 inches in diameter, which helps evenly heat food but could be a bit small for larger dishes. The stainless steel interior is durable and easy to clean, which is a plus.

While the unit is not smart-home compatible and may produce typical microwave noise during operation, its multi-functionality and preset options make it a practical choice for those who want one appliance to handle a variety of cooking tasks. For those seeking a compact microwave with added air frying and roasting capabilities without complex settings, this model is well suited. However, users who often cook large meals or prefer ultra-fast cooking might find the size and wattage somewhat limiting.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,276
Cooking Functions
Power (Wattage)
Control Panel

Most important from
22347 reviews

Cooking Functions
This all-in-one appliance combines microwave, air fryer, grill, bake, and roast functions, making it a versatile kitchen essential that saves significant counter space.
Power (Wattage)
The 900-watt power level provides decent cooking speed, though it may take a bit longer compared to higher-watt models.
Control Panel
The control panel is intuitive and easy to learn, with dedicated presets that simplify cooking common foods like popcorn and pizza.
Size and Capacity
The compact size fits well in kitchens with limited space, but the 11.3-inch turntable can feel a bit small for larger dishes.
Turntable
The compact size fits well in kitchens with limited space, but the 11.3-inch turntable can feel a bit small for larger dishes.
Interior Material
The stainless steel interior is durable and easy to clean, enhancing the overall user experience.
Noise Level
The unit produces typical microwave noise but maintains a quiet operation thanks to a tight door seal.
#2

TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function, LED Lighting, Countertop Microwave Perfect for Apartments, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Stainless Steel

Rating
8.8
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Control Panel

Most important from
839 reviews

Size and Capacity
This compact microwave fits perfectly in small spaces without compromising on powerful and even heating.
Power (Wattage)
It heats food quickly and reliably, making it ideal for everything from leftovers to quick meals.
Control Panel
The controls are straightforward and user-friendly, simplifying everyday cooking tasks.
Noise Level
The quiet operation stands out, with a subtle beep that can even be muted to avoid disturbing others.

The Toshiba ML-EM09PA(SS) is a compact microwave well-suited for small kitchens, apartments, or dorm rooms, thanks to its modest size (about 19 x 15 x 11 inches) and 0.9 cubic feet capacity. It delivers a solid 900 watts of power, which is enough for everyday tasks like reheating, cooking frozen meals, or defrosting food. Its 10.6-inch removable glass turntable helps ensure even cooking for most plates and containers that fit within the compact interior.

This microwave offers six preset cooking menus for common items such as popcorn and pizza, making it simple to use without guesswork. The control panel is straightforward and includes features like one-touch start, 11 power levels for more precise cooking, a kitchen timer, and a mute function to silence the beeps, which can be handy in quiet environments. Safety is prioritized through a two-step child lock, adding peace of mind for families. The stainless steel interior is durable and easy to clean.

While the microwave weighs nearly 25 pounds, which may make it less convenient to move frequently, this also reflects a sturdy build. The Toshiba microwave balances useful features, safety, and power in a size ideal for tight spaces without overcomplicating operation.

Rating
8.8
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Control Panel

Most important from
839 reviews

Size and Capacity
This compact microwave fits perfectly in small spaces without compromising on powerful and even heating.
Power (Wattage)
It heats food quickly and reliably, making it ideal for everything from leftovers to quick meals.
Control Panel
The controls are straightforward and user-friendly, simplifying everyday cooking tasks.
Noise Level
The quiet operation stands out, with a subtle beep that can even be muted to avoid disturbing others.
#3

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor, 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior, 1000W, Silver

Rating
8.5
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Cooking Functions

Most important from
21179 reviews

Size and Capacity
The turntable rotates smoothly, ensuring even heating, and the interior is spacious and easy to clean.
Power (Wattage)
Incredibly powerful and heats food quickly and evenly, without cold spots or overcooked edges.
Cooking Functions
One-touch presets like 'Popcorn' and 'Reheat' are convenient and save time.
Control Panel
Easy to use with a clear digital display and well-marked buttons.
Interior Material
The sleek and modern design blends well with other kitchen appliances, featuring a black stainless steel finish and minimalistic button layout.
Noise Level
The best selling point is that it's really quiet, and you can stop the annoying beeping when the microwave is finished.

The Toshiba EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave is a solid choice in the compact microwave category, particularly for those needing a balance of size, power, and functionality. With a capacity of 1.2 cubic feet and dimensions of 20.51 x 17.14 x 12.83 inches, it offers ample space without dominating your kitchen counter. The 1100 watts of power and 10 power settings provide flexibility and efficiency for a variety of cooking tasks.

The smart humidity sensor and 12 auto menus are highly convenient for optimal heating of popular foods, which can save time and prevent overcooking. Additionally, the 12.4-inch removable turntable accommodates large dishes, such as a 12-inch pizza, which is impressive for a compact microwave. The control panel is straightforward with a large digital display, making it user-friendly.

The mute function is a thoughtful feature for those who prefer a quieter kitchen environment, and the ECO mode helps save on energy consumption. Cleaning is easy with the stainless steel interior, which is both durable and resistant to stains. The product enjoys positive feedback, holding a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from over 56,000 reviews, indicating general customer satisfaction. In summary, the Toshiba EM131A5C-SS is well-suited for small to medium-sized households looking for a reliable, feature-rich compact microwave with efficient cooking performance.

Rating
8.5
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Cooking Functions

Most important from
21179 reviews

Size and Capacity
The turntable rotates smoothly, ensuring even heating, and the interior is spacious and easy to clean.
Power (Wattage)
Incredibly powerful and heats food quickly and evenly, without cold spots or overcooked edges.
Cooking Functions
One-touch presets like 'Popcorn' and 'Reheat' are convenient and save time.
Control Panel
Easy to use with a clear digital display and well-marked buttons.
Interior Material
The sleek and modern design blends well with other kitchen appliances, featuring a black stainless steel finish and minimalistic button layout.
Noise Level
The best selling point is that it's really quiet, and you can stop the annoying beeping when the microwave is finished.

Buying Guide for the Best Compact Microwaves

Choosing the right compact microwave can make a big difference in your kitchen, especially if you have limited space. Compact microwaves are designed to be smaller and more space-efficient while still offering the essential functions you need. When selecting a compact microwave, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are the key specs to look at and how to navigate them.
Size and CapacitySize and capacity refer to the external dimensions of the microwave and the internal cooking space. This is important because you need to ensure the microwave fits in your designated space while still being large enough to accommodate your dishes. Compact microwaves typically range from 0.5 to 1.0 cubic feet in capacity. If you mostly reheat small meals or beverages, a smaller capacity (around 0.5-0.7 cubic feet) will suffice. For slightly larger dishes or more frequent use, consider a capacity closer to 1.0 cubic feet.
Power (Wattage)Power, measured in watts, determines how quickly and evenly your food will cook. Higher wattage means faster cooking times and more even heating. Compact microwaves usually range from 600 to 1000 watts. If you plan to use the microwave for basic tasks like reheating and defrosting, 600-800 watts should be adequate. For more intensive cooking or if you want faster results, look for a microwave with 900-1000 watts.
Cooking FunctionsCooking functions refer to the preset programs and features that the microwave offers, such as defrost, popcorn, pizza, and reheat settings. These functions can make cooking more convenient and ensure better results. If you have specific needs, like frequently cooking certain types of food, look for a microwave with relevant presets. For general use, a few basic functions should be sufficient.
Control PanelThe control panel is the interface you use to operate the microwave. It can be digital or mechanical. Digital panels offer more precise control and additional features like timers and preset programs, while mechanical dials are simpler and more straightforward. If you prefer ease of use and more features, go for a digital control panel. If you want something simple and reliable, a mechanical panel might be better.
TurntableA turntable is a rotating glass plate inside the microwave that helps cook food evenly. Most compact microwaves come with a turntable, but the size and quality can vary. A larger turntable can accommodate bigger dishes, while a sturdy one ensures durability. If you often use larger plates or bowls, check the turntable size to ensure it meets your needs.
Interior MaterialThe interior material of the microwave affects its durability and ease of cleaning. Common materials include stainless steel and enamel. Stainless steel interiors are more durable and resistant to stains, while enamel interiors are easier to clean. If you prioritize durability and a sleek look, go for stainless steel. If easy cleaning is more important, an enamel interior might be the better choice.
Noise LevelNoise level refers to how loud the microwave is during operation. This can be important if you have a quiet household or if the microwave will be used in a shared space. While noise levels are not always specified, user reviews can be a good indicator. If noise is a concern, look for models that are noted for their quiet operation.

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