7 Best Compact Microwave
Finding a microwave that fits your small kitchen can feel like a puzzle. You want something that heats your food quickly and efficiently without taking up all your counter space. The best best compact microwave is the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven, the only one here that offers a decent capacity with straightforward controls, making it a solid choice for everyday use in smaller kitchens.
If you're looking for something with a bit more power and a sleeker look, the TOSHIBA Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu.Ft 900W is a great contender, as long as you have a little more room to spare on your counter. This guide will help you navigate the options, but remember, if you're looking for advanced features like convection cooking or air frying, a compact microwave probably isn't the right appliance for you.
This guide is based on current Amazon product data, manufacturer specifications, and aggregate owner feedback. We haven't physically tested these units in a lab, but our research aims to give you a clear picture of what each microwave offers.
Quick Answer: The Best Compact Microwave
The best compact microwave is the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven, perfect for basic reheating and cooking needs in tight spaces.
- BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven (Best Everyday Use): A reliable performer for basic reheating and cooking in smaller kitchens.
- TOSHIBA Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu.Ft 900W (Best Power): Delivers powerful heating in a moderately compact size.
- Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close (Best Premium Features): Offers smart presets and a quieter operation for a more refined experience.
- LG Countertop Microwave 0.9 cu ft (Best Smart Tech): Features smart inverter technology for more even heating and pre-programmed options.
- COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven (Best Value): A budget-friendly option with essential functions and an eco-mode.
- Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu (Best Simple Controls): Easy-to-use interface with essential presets and a mute button.
- TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven (Best Minimalist Design): A straightforward, compact unit with a sleek black finish.
Thinking about a full-size microwave or a convection oven instead? Jump to Who Should NOT Buy below before you spend anything.
Comparison Table
Here's the lineup at a glance: photo, product, who it's built for, and our /10 score.
| Photo | Product | Best for | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven | Everyday small kitchen use | 7.8/10 | Check price → |
 | TOSHIBA Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu.Ft 900W | Higher power needs | 8.2/10 | Check price → |
 | Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close | Premium features & quiet door | 8.0/10 | Check price → |
 | LG Countertop Microwave 0.9 cu ft | Smart cooking features | 8.0/10 | Check price → |
 | COMFEE’ Countertop Microwave Oven | Budget-friendly essential functions | 8.2/10 | Check price → |
 | Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu | Simple one-touch operation | 7.6/10 | Check price → |
 | TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven | Clean, minimalist look | 7.9/10 | Check price → |
- Scroll sideways on small screens to see every column.
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best Everyday Use for Small Kitchens
TOSHIBA Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu.Ft 900W: Best Power for Faster Heating
Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close: Best Premium Features for a Quieter Kitchen
LG Countertop Microwave 0.9 cu ft: Best Smart Tech for Even Heating
COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven: Best Value for Essential Functions
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu: Best Simple Controls for Easy Operation
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best Minimalist Design for Sleek Kitchens
Buying Guide: Power, Capacity, and Ease of Use
When you're shopping for a compact microwave, it's easy to get overwhelmed by all the options. But don't worry, we'll break down the most important things to consider, based on what we found with these models.
Power (Wattage) Matters for Speed
Microwave wattage dictates how quickly your food cooks. You'll typically see compact models ranging from 700W to 1000W. A higher wattage means faster cooking times, which is great if you're often in a rush.
For instance, the LG Countertop Microwave 0.9 cu ft, with its 1000W power, heats food more rapidly than the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven at 700W. If speed is your priority, aim for the higher end of the wattage spectrum.
Capacity: Size Your Space
Compact microwaves usually fall between 0.7 and 0.9 cubic feet. While all these options are designed to save space, there's still a difference. The 0.7 cu. ft. models, like the COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven, are great for fitting into extremely tight spots, but you might find they can only fit smaller plates or bowls.
If you occasionally need to heat larger items, a 0.9 cu. ft. model, such as the TOSHIBA Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu.Ft 900W, offers a bit more wiggle room without becoming too bulky. Always measure your counter space and check the microwave's external dimensions to ensure a good fit.
Ease of Use: Keep it Simple
For most people looking at compact microwaves, simplicity is key. You want controls that are intuitive and presets that make sense for everyday tasks. Models like the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu excel here with their one-touch buttons and clear interfaces.
Other options, like the Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close, offer more advanced presets, which can be fantastic if you use specific cooking functions regularly, but might add a slight learning curve. Think about how you plan to use the microwave most often.
Who Should NOT Buy Best Compact Microwave
This category of compact microwaves is the wrong purchase for a few types of buyers who would be better served by different appliances. Here's who they are, and what to look at instead.
You Need Advanced Cooking Features
If you're looking for more than just basic reheating and cooking, a compact microwave likely won't cut it. Features like convection baking, grilling, or air frying are typically found in larger, more specialized appliances. If these functions are important to you, consider a countertop convection oven or a combination microwave-convection unit, which will offer a wider range of cooking capabilities but will take up more counter space.
You Frequently Cook Large Quantities
While some compact microwaves offer a decent 0.9 cu. ft. capacity, they are fundamentally designed for smaller households or single servings. If you regularly cook large meals for a family, or often prepare dishes that require a bigger cooking vessel, you'll quickly outgrow the space limitations of these compact units. In this case, a full-size microwave or even a larger oven might be a more practical investment for your kitchen.
Final Verdict
For straightforward reheating and cooking in a small kitchen, the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven is your best bet. Its reliable performance and simple controls make it a no-fuss option that won't take up valuable counter space.
Want faster cooking times? The TOSHIBA Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu.Ft 900W delivers more power in a moderately sized package. Need advanced features and a quieter operation?
The Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close offers premium functionality. For those on a budget who prioritize simplicity, the COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven and Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu are excellent choices. If you prefer a sleek, minimalist look, the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven provides a clean aesthetic.
Remember, if you need features like convection cooking or frequently prepare large meals, you might be better off looking at larger appliances.
FAQ
What's the best Compact Microwave overall?
The BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven is our top pick for its balanced combination of compact size, essential features, and straightforward operation, making it ideal for most small kitchens.
How much space do I need for a compact microwave?
Compact microwaves generally range from about 17 to 19 inches in width and 10 to 11 inches in height. Always measure your counter space and check the specific dimensions of the model you're considering before purchasing.
Are compact microwaves powerful enough?
Most compact microwaves operate between 700 and 1000 watts. While they are sufficient for reheating, defrosting, and basic cooking, they might take longer to cook food compared to larger, higher-wattage models.
Can I cook full meals in a compact microwave?
You can prepare many meals in a compact microwave, especially single servings or smaller dishes. However, large items like a whole chicken or a big family-sized casserole might not fit or cook evenly due to the limited capacity and interior space.
What's the difference between 0.7 cu. ft. and 0.9 cu. ft. microwaves?
The primary difference is the interior volume. A 0.9 cu. ft. microwave offers more space, typically allowing you to fit larger plates, bowls, or small casserole dishes more comfortably. A 0.7 cu. ft. model is even smaller, best suited for very limited counter space and smaller food items.
