We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Small Microwaves 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

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.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

TOSHIBA Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, with Convection, Broil, Odor Removal Mode, 12.4" Position Memory Turntable, Child-Lock, Black Stainless Steel, ML2-EC10SA(BS) A, Air Fryer-1.0 Cu.Ft

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,499
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Control Panel and Features

Most important from
55048 reviews

Size and Capacity
The 12.4-inch turntable provides ample space to accommodate larger dishes, supporting a variety of cooking needs from reheating to baking and air frying.
Power (Wattage)
The microwave delivers powerful and consistent heating, turning a simple mug of water boiling hot in just a minute—far surpassing expectations from older models.
Control Panel and Features
The ability to mute all beeping sounds adds a welcome layer of convenience and peace to the kitchen environment.
Build Quality and Design
Its sleek black stainless steel exterior not only looks modern and stylish but is also easy to clean and maintain.
Noise Level
Despite its versatility and features, the microwave operates quietly, making it less disruptive than previous models.

The Toshiba Combo 8-in-1 countertop microwave is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines several cooking functions including microwave, air fry, bake, broil, and more. It offers a solid 1000-watt microwave power, which is adequate for most everyday cooking and reheating tasks. Its capacity of 1 cubic foot is quite generous for a small microwave, thanks to the 12.4-inch turntable that can accommodate larger dishes like a whole roasted chicken or a 12-inch pizza. The turntable also features position memory, which helps evenly cook or heat food by remembering its last position.

In terms of controls, it has easy-to-use knobs and one-touch buttons for popular settings like popcorn, making it user-friendly even for those unfamiliar with more complex appliances. Additional features like a child lock, timer, mute function, and odor removal mode add convenience and safety, especially for families. The black stainless steel exterior gives it a sleek, modern look that is also easy to clean, and the stainless steel interior is durable.

The microwave is reasonably compact with dimensions of around 20.6 x 18 x 11.8 inches, fitting well on most countertops without taking too much space. It weighs about 39 pounds, which is typical for its size and features. The input power is 1600 watts, which may use more electricity compared to simpler models. This microwave is an excellent choice for users who want one appliance that can do much more than just reheat food, especially if air frying and baking are appealing. It may be more than needed if someone only wants a basic microwave, but for those looking to save space and utilize multiple cooking methods in one machine, this Toshiba model offers strong versatility.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,499
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Control Panel and Features

Most important from
55048 reviews

Size and Capacity
The 12.4-inch turntable provides ample space to accommodate larger dishes, supporting a variety of cooking needs from reheating to baking and air frying.
Power (Wattage)
The microwave delivers powerful and consistent heating, turning a simple mug of water boiling hot in just a minute—far surpassing expectations from older models.
Control Panel and Features
The ability to mute all beeping sounds adds a welcome layer of convenience and peace to the kitchen environment.
Build Quality and Design
Its sleek black stainless steel exterior not only looks modern and stylish but is also easy to clean and maintain.
Noise Level
Despite its versatility and features, the microwave operates quietly, making it less disruptive than previous models.
#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
10.0
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Control Panel and Features

Most important from
55048 reviews

Size and Capacity
The turntable rotates smoothly, ensuring food is heated evenly, and the interior is spacious, offering plenty of room for medium-sized dishes.
Power (Wattage)
The Toshiba microwave is incredibly powerful and heats food quickly and evenly, with no cold spots or overcooked edges.
Control Panel and Features
It’s really quiet, and the ability to stop the annoying beeping when the microwave is finished is a great feature.
Turntable
The turntable rotates smoothly, ensuring food is heated evenly, and the interior is spacious, offering plenty of room for medium-sized dishes.
Build Quality and Design
The sleek and modern design, combined with the black stainless steel finish, gives it an upscale look that blends well with other kitchen appliances.
Noise Level
It’s really quiet, and the ability to stop the annoying beeping when the microwave is finished is a great feature.

The Toshiba EM131A5C-SS countertop microwave is a strong contender for those looking for a small microwave with a decent capacity. With its 1.2 cubic feet size, it can easily fit a 12-inch pizza, making it suitable for medium-sized households or individuals who need a bit more room for their dishes. Its 1100 watts power rating ensures that food is heated quickly and efficiently, and the smart humidity sensor optimizes heating for popular foods like pizza and veggies, simplifying the cooking process.

The control panel is user-friendly with a large digital display and pre-programmed sensor menu, which should be helpful for those who prefer preset cooking options. The mute function is a thoughtful addition for noise-sensitive environments. The removable 12.4-inch turntable makes cleaning easier, and the stainless steel build gives it a stylish and durable appearance.

However, at 34.6 pounds, it might be considered heavy for some users, and its dimensions should be checked to ensure it fits the intended space. While the ECO mode is a nice touch for energy savings, the microwave's noise level may still be noticeable despite the mute feature. The protective film on the keypad needs to be removed before using it, which might be an initial inconvenience. The Toshiba EM131A5C-SS offers a blend of practical features and solid performance, making it a fitting choice for those seeking a reliable countertop microwave with modern conveniences.

Rating
10.0
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Control Panel and Features

Most important from
55048 reviews

Size and Capacity
The turntable rotates smoothly, ensuring food is heated evenly, and the interior is spacious, offering plenty of room for medium-sized dishes.
Power (Wattage)
The Toshiba microwave is incredibly powerful and heats food quickly and evenly, with no cold spots or overcooked edges.
Control Panel and Features
It’s really quiet, and the ability to stop the annoying beeping when the microwave is finished is a great feature.
Turntable
The turntable rotates smoothly, ensuring food is heated evenly, and the interior is spacious, offering plenty of room for medium-sized dishes.
Build Quality and Design
The sleek and modern design, combined with the black stainless steel finish, gives it an upscale look that blends well with other kitchen appliances.
Noise Level
It’s really quiet, and the ability to stop the annoying beeping when the microwave is finished is a great feature.
#3

Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts, 0.7 Cu. Ft. - Microwave Oven With LED Lighting and Child Lock - Perfect for Apartments and Dorms - Easy Clean Stainless Steel

Rating
9.7
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Control Panel and Features

Most important from
13341 reviews

Size and Capacity
Perfect for small spaces like basement kitchens, this compact microwave doesn't take up much counter space and has an attractive design.
Power (Wattage)
Users appreciate the straightforward controls and effective cooking power, noting a significant improvement over older models.
Control Panel and Features
Users appreciate the straightforward controls and effective cooking power, noting a significant improvement over older models.
Build Quality and Design
Perfect for small spaces like basement kitchens, this compact microwave doesn't take up much counter space and has an attractive design.
Noise Level
The microwave is quiet to the point where you might wonder if it's on, which is a pleasant surprise compared to noisier models.

The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a compact and powerful option for small kitchens, apartments, or dorms. With a capacity of 0.7 cubic feet, it is perfect for those with limited space. The 700-watt power ensures that it can handle everyday cooking tasks, although it may not be as fast as higher-wattage models.

The microwave offers ten power levels and six one-touch options for convenience, making it easy to cook or reheat a variety of foods, including popcorn, potatoes, and pizza. The multi-stage cooking feature allows for more customized cooking results, and the defrost settings by weight or time add to its versatility. The control panel includes a clear LED display with a kitchen timer and clock, enhancing usability.

Additionally, the microwave has a child safety lock, making it a secure choice for families. The build quality is solid, with a stainless steel exterior that is both durable and easy to clean. However, being a compact model, the turntable size is smaller, which might limit the size of dishes you can use. Some users may find the noise level a bit higher than expected, but this is a minor drawback considering its size and power. With a weight of 22.5 pounds, it is relatively easy to move and position on countertops. This microwave is best suited for individuals or small families looking for a reliable, space-saving appliance for everyday use.

Rating
9.7
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Control Panel and Features

Most important from
13341 reviews

Size and Capacity
Perfect for small spaces like basement kitchens, this compact microwave doesn't take up much counter space and has an attractive design.
Power (Wattage)
Users appreciate the straightforward controls and effective cooking power, noting a significant improvement over older models.
Control Panel and Features
Users appreciate the straightforward controls and effective cooking power, noting a significant improvement over older models.
Build Quality and Design
Perfect for small spaces like basement kitchens, this compact microwave doesn't take up much counter space and has an attractive design.
Noise Level
The microwave is quiet to the point where you might wonder if it's on, which is a pleasant surprise compared to noisier models.

Buying Guide for the Best Small Microwaves

When choosing a small microwave, it's important to consider your specific needs and the space you have available. Small microwaves are great for compact kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices where space is limited. They can handle most basic cooking tasks like reheating leftovers, defrosting frozen foods, and making simple meals. To find the best small microwave for you, focus on the key specifications that will impact its performance and suitability for your needs.
Size and CapacitySize and capacity refer to the external dimensions of the microwave and the internal space available for cooking. This is important because you need to ensure the microwave fits in your designated space and can accommodate the dishes you plan to use. Small microwaves typically range from 0.5 to 1.0 cubic feet in capacity. If you only need to reheat small meals or beverages, a microwave on the lower end of this range will suffice. For slightly larger dishes or more frequent use, aim for a capacity closer to 1.0 cubic feet.
Power (Wattage)Power, measured in watts, determines how quickly and evenly the microwave can cook food. Higher wattage means faster cooking times and more even heating. Small microwaves usually range from 600 to 1000 watts. If you primarily use the microwave for simple tasks like reheating and defrosting, a lower wattage (600-800 watts) will be adequate. For more versatile cooking, such as preparing meals or cooking raw ingredients, opt for a higher wattage (800-1000 watts).
Control Panel and FeaturesThe control panel and features of a microwave can greatly affect its ease of use and functionality. Look for a control panel that is intuitive and easy to navigate. Common features include preset cooking modes, defrost settings, and a timer. Some microwaves also offer advanced features like sensor cooking, which automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on the food's moisture levels. Consider your cooking habits and choose a microwave with features that will make your tasks easier and more efficient.
TurntableA turntable is a rotating glass plate inside the microwave that helps to cook food evenly by moving it around during the cooking process. This is important for ensuring that your food heats uniformly without cold spots. Most small microwaves come with a turntable, but the size and quality can vary. Ensure the turntable is large enough to accommodate your dishes and is easy to remove and clean. If you often use larger or oddly shaped dishes, look for a microwave with a removable or adjustable turntable.
Build Quality and DesignBuild quality and design refer to the materials and construction of the microwave, as well as its aesthetic appeal. A well-built microwave will be more durable and reliable over time. Look for a microwave with a sturdy door, solid buttons, and a robust interior. The design should also complement your kitchen or room decor. Consider the color, finish, and overall style to ensure it fits well with your existing appliances and furniture.
Noise LevelNoise level refers to how loud the microwave is during operation. This is important if you are sensitive to noise or if the microwave will be used in a shared or quiet space. Small microwaves can vary in noise levels, with some being relatively quiet and others producing more noticeable sounds. If noise is a concern for you, look for reviews or specifications that mention the microwave's noise level, and choose one that is known for quieter operation.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now