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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

Farberware 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - Stainless

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,326
Size and Capacity
Control Panel
Turntable

Most important from
31767 reviews

Size and Capacity
Fits well in limited spaces and is easy to use.
Control Panel
Simple controls and small footprint make it perfect for work.
Turntable
Glass tray wobbles a bit, but it's not a major issue.
Interior Material
Moisture accumulates after heating liquids, but wiping it dry helps keep the interior clean.
Noise Level
A little noisier than some other models, but that's a minor issue.

The Farberware Countertop Microwave with 1000 watts of power and a 1.3 cubic feet capacity is designed for small spaces like apartments and dorms, offering a balance between size and functionality. Its compact size doesn't compromise its cooking abilities, making it suitable for residential use. The microwave comes with ten power levels and six one-touch cooking options, including settings for popcorn, potato, and pizza, allowing for versatile and easy meal preparation.

Additionally, it offers defrost options by weight or time, enhancing its utility. The control panel features an LED display with a kitchen timer and clock, and the child safety lock adds extra security. The interior and exterior of the microwave are easy to clean, thanks to its stainless steel construction, which is both durable and stylish.

However, some users might find the noise level during operation to be higher than expected, and the LED display, while clear, might be too bright for some. The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a solid choice for those needing a reliable and versatile microwave in a compact space.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,326
Size and Capacity
Control Panel
Turntable

Most important from
31767 reviews

Size and Capacity
Fits well in limited spaces and is easy to use.
Control Panel
Simple controls and small footprint make it perfect for work.
Turntable
Glass tray wobbles a bit, but it's not a major issue.
Interior Material
Moisture accumulates after heating liquids, but wiping it dry helps keep the interior clean.
Noise Level
A little noisier than some other models, but that's a minor issue.
#2

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
9.4
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Cooking Functions

Most important from
56115 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
9.4
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Cooking Functions

Most important from
56115 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.
#3

COMFEE' Retro Microwave Oven, Small Microwave with 6 Auto Menus, 0.9 cu.ft Countertop Compact Microwave with Multi-stage Cooking, Mute Function, LED digital, Apricot/900W, CMO-MMP02AA(AT)

Rating
8.5
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Cooking Functions

Most important from
23598 reviews

Size and Capacity
Compact enough for small kitchens but still spacious enough to fit most dishes and full-size dinner plates.
Power (Wattage)
Heats food quickly and evenly, ideal for busy mornings or late-night snacks.
Cooking Functions
Offers convenient one-touch cooking buttons that simplify setting common cooking times.
Control Panel
The control panel is intuitive and user-friendly, making reheating and defrosting a breeze without needing instructions.
Noise Level
The sound-off feature and ECO mode contribute to a quieter and more energy-efficient kitchen environment.

The COMFEE Retro Compact Microwave is a solid choice if you want a small, stylish microwave that fits easily on your countertop without taking much space. Its 0.9 cubic feet capacity is enough for most small households or single users. With 900 watts of power, it cooks food efficiently and evenly, offering 11 power levels and 9 preset cooking programs that cover common meals like popcorn, pizza, and vegetables. The multi-stage cooking feature lets you combine tasks like defrosting and cooking in one go, which can save time.

The LED digital control panel is straightforward, and the mute function is a nice touch if you want a quieter kitchen environment. The microwave also includes a glass turntable for even heating and an easy-to-use two-step child lock for safety. However, it is made from plastic and painted metal, which might not feel as durable as higher-end stainless steel models. Some users might find the noise level average rather than very quiet, even with the mute option.

Its retro look adds character, but if you prefer a more modern design, this might not suit your taste. This microwave is well-suited for those needing a compact, functional, and user-friendly appliance for everyday cooking without complex features or large capacity.

Rating
8.5
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Cooking Functions

Most important from
23598 reviews

Size and Capacity
Compact enough for small kitchens but still spacious enough to fit most dishes and full-size dinner plates.
Power (Wattage)
Heats food quickly and evenly, ideal for busy mornings or late-night snacks.
Cooking Functions
Offers convenient one-touch cooking buttons that simplify setting common cooking times.
Control Panel
The control panel is intuitive and user-friendly, making reheating and defrosting a breeze without needing instructions.
Noise Level
The sound-off feature and ECO mode contribute to a quieter and more energy-efficient kitchen environment.

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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