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10 Best Compact Microwaves 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

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
9.8
Chosen by1,103
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Cooking Functions

Most important from
55011 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
9.8
Chosen by1,103
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Cooking Functions

Most important from
55011 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.
#2

COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7 Cu Ft, Black

Rating
9.6
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Control Panel

Most important from
23025 reviews

Size and Capacity
Compact size fits easily into small spaces and is easy to operate.
Power (Wattage)
Requires some adjustment for cooking times due to 700W power.
Control Panel
Sturdy door and easy-to-use controls make it user-friendly.
Turntable
Glass revolving tray helps ensure even heating.

The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact and efficient choice for small kitchens or limited counter space, with its 0.7 cubic feet capacity and dimensions of 13 x 17.3 x 10.2 inches. Weighing only 20.3 pounds, it's easy to move and install. The 700-watt power is adequate for basic reheating and cooking tasks, though it might be slower compared to higher-wattage models.

Key features include a mute function, an energy-saving Eco mode, and a child safety lock, making it user-friendly and safe for households with children. The easy one-touch buttons for common food items like popcorn, pizza, and beverages simplify cooking, although the variety in cooking functions might feel limited for some users. The bright digital display and easy-to-read control panel add to the convenience, though the control panel's layout might require a bit of familiarization initially.

The 10-inch glass turntable ensures even heating, but the interior's stainless steel material may show wear over time with frequent use. Noise levels are generally low, and the option to mute signals is a nice touch for quieter operation. This microwave is best suited for residential use, particularly for individuals or small families looking for a reliable, space-saving appliance with essential features and decent performance.

Rating
9.6
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Control Panel

Most important from
23025 reviews

Size and Capacity
Compact size fits easily into small spaces and is easy to operate.
Power (Wattage)
Requires some adjustment for cooking times due to 700W power.
Control Panel
Sturdy door and easy-to-use controls make it user-friendly.
Turntable
Glass revolving tray helps ensure even heating.
#3

Farberware Countertop 700 Watts, 0.7 cu ft 700-Watt Microwave Oven, Black

Rating
9.4
Size and Capacity
Cooking Functions
Control Panel

Most important from
13321 reviews

Size and Capacity
Offers a good interior size that fits well in limited spaces without sacrificing functionality.
Cooking Functions
Delivers reliable everyday cooking performance, making it a practical choice despite lacking advanced features like sensor cooking.
Control Panel
The clear LED display and well-lit interior enhance usability and allow easy monitoring of food while cooking.
Turntable
The turntable ensures even cooking, supporting consistent reheating and meal preparation.
Interior Material
Moisture can accumulate inside after heating liquids, but wiping it dry keeps the interior clean and stain-free.
Noise Level
Produces a bit more noise compared to some other brands, though this is a minor issue considering overall performance.

The Farberware Countertop Microwave offers a solid choice if you need a compact microwave that fits into tight spaces such as apartments, dorm rooms, or small kitchens. With a 0.7 cubic feet capacity, it provides enough room to heat or cook typical meals without taking up much counter space. Its 700 watts of power is on the lower to mid-range side, so it will handle everyday cooking tasks well but might take a bit longer to cook compared to higher wattage models.

You get 10 power levels and six one-touch presets like popcorn and pizza, which make it easy to use without fuss. The touch control panel and clear LED display are simple to navigate, and the interior comes with an easy-clean grey finish that resists stains and makes maintenance straightforward. The turntable ensures your food cooks evenly, and the bright interior LED lighting helps you watch your food while it cooks. A handy child lock adds safety, which is a nice bonus for families.

While it doesn’t have many advanced features like sensor cooking, this model covers the basics well, making it a practical, user-friendly option for anyone who values convenience and compact size over high-end features.

Rating
9.4
Size and Capacity
Cooking Functions
Control Panel

Most important from
13321 reviews

Size and Capacity
Offers a good interior size that fits well in limited spaces without sacrificing functionality.
Cooking Functions
Delivers reliable everyday cooking performance, making it a practical choice despite lacking advanced features like sensor cooking.
Control Panel
The clear LED display and well-lit interior enhance usability and allow easy monitoring of food while cooking.
Turntable
The turntable ensures even cooking, supporting consistent reheating and meal preparation.
Interior Material
Moisture can accumulate inside after heating liquids, but wiping it dry keeps the interior clean and stain-free.
Noise Level
Produces a bit more noise compared to some other brands, though this is a minor issue considering overall performance.

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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