7 Best Microwave for Apartment
When you're living in a smaller space, like an apartment, every appliance choice matters. You want things that are functional, don't take up too much room, and get the job done efficiently. That's exactly where a good microwave comes in, and finding the best microwave for apartment living can make a big difference in your daily routine.
For many, the ideal apartment microwave is one that offers a compact footprint without sacrificing essential cooking power and features. It needs to heat leftovers, defrost items, and maybe even pop some popcorn without overwhelming your limited counter space. We've dug into the options to find the ones that best fit these needs.
This guide is here to help you zero in on the perfect microwave for your specific apartment setup. We'll look at size, power, ease of use, and how they stack up against each other. If you're finding that even a countertop model feels too large, you might be better suited with a microwave drawer or a built-in option, which we touch on later.
Everything you're about to read is based on the latest product specifications, user feedback, and detailed Amazon data. Our team has analyzed these factors to give you an honest picture, not from hands-on testing, but from thoroughly researching what the market offers and what users are saying.
Quick Answer: The Best Microwave for Apartment
The best best microwave for apartment is the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven (0.7 Cu.Ft), the only one here that truly nails the compact footprint without skimping on basic functionality for everyday reheating and defrosting.
Thinking about more powerful cooking or a larger capacity 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 | Tiny kitchens, dorms | 8.5/10 | Check price → |
 | TOSHIBA Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu.Ft 900W | Balanced size and power | 8.3/10 | Check price → |
 | BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven | Affordable power boost | 8.2/10 | Check price → |
 | TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven | Larger meals, faster cooking | 8.1/10 | Check price → |
 | COMFEE’ Countertop Microwave Oven | Energy saving, quiet operation | 8.0/10 | Check price → |
 | Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu | Smart presets, child lock | 7.9/10 | Check price → |
 | Farberware 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave | Generous capacity, versatile | 7.8/10 | Check price → |
Scroll sideways on small screens to see every column.
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best Tiny Kitchens for Dorms and Studios
TOSHIBA Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu.Ft 900W: Best Balanced Size for Everyday Use
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best Affordable Power Boost
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best Larger Meals, Faster Cooking
COMFEE’ Countertop Microwave Oven: Best Energy Saving, Quiet Operation
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu: Best Smart Presets, Child Safety Lock
Farberware 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave: Best Generous Capacity, Versatile Use
Buying Guide: Size, Power, Features, and Budget
When you're picking out a microwave for your apartment, it's easy to get overwhelmed by all the choices. But really, it boils down to a few key things that make a big difference in how well it fits your lifestyle and your living space. Let's break them down.
Size Matters for Counter Space
Your biggest constraint in an apartment is usually counter space. Microwaves come in different sizes, and this is often the first thing to consider.
- Compact (0.5-0.9 cu. ft.): These are your smallest options, like the BLACK+DECKER 0.7 cu. ft. model. They're great for very tight kitchens, dorm rooms, or if you only need to heat up a mug of coffee or a small snack. They take up minimal space but can feel cramped for larger dinner plates.
- Mid-size (0.9-1.2 cu. ft.): This is where most apartment-friendly microwaves land, including the TOSHIBA 0.9 cu. ft. and the BLACK+DECKER 0.9 cu. ft. They offer a better balance, fitting a standard dinner plate comfortably without dominating your counter. These are the sweet spot for most individuals or couples.
- Larger (1.2+ cu. ft.): While some models, like the Farberware 1.1 cu. ft., offer more capacity, they start taking up a significant chunk of counter space. If you often cook family-sized meals or entertain, this might be worth it, but be sure you have the room.
Power: How Fast Will It Cook?
Microwave wattage (measured in watts) directly impacts how quickly your food cooks. Higher wattage generally means faster cooking times.
- 700W, 800W: These are typically found in smaller, more basic models. They're fine for simple tasks like reheating drinks or defrosting small items, but cooking meals might take noticeably longer. Models like the COMFEE' and Chefman fall into this range.
- 900W, 1000W: This is the sweet spot for most apartment dwellers. It provides a good balance of speed and efficiency for most everyday cooking and reheating needs. The TOSHIBA 0.9 cu. ft. and both BLACK+DECKER models (0.9 cu. ft.) offer this power level.
- 1000W+: Higher wattage, like in the Farberware 1.1 cu. ft. microwave, means faster cooking and more robust performance. If you plan on doing more than just reheating, this can be a big advantage.
Features: What Makes Life Easier?
Beyond basic heating, microwaves offer features that can simplify your life. Think about what you'll actually use.
- Presets: Many microwaves come with buttons for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, or beverages. These can be handy for quick, one-touch cooking. The Chefman and Farberware models are good examples with multiple presets.
- Defrost Settings: Essential for quickly thawing frozen foods. Most microwaves offer this, but some have more advanced weight or time-based defrost options.
- Child Lock: A valuable safety feature if you have young children. It prevents accidental operation. The Chefman microwave includes this.
- Eco Mode/Mute Button: For those mindful of energy use or noise levels, features like Eco Mode (COMFEE') or a mute button (Chefman, COMFEE') can be very beneficial in an apartment setting.
- Turntable: Most microwaves have a rotating turntable to ensure even cooking. Check if it's removable for easier cleaning.
Budget: What's Your Price Point?
Apartment-friendly microwaves generally fall into an accessible price range. You can find a reliable option without breaking the bank.
- Budget-friendly: Expect to pay less for basic, compact models with lower wattage and fewer features. The BLACK+DECKER 0.7 cu. ft. often sits in this category.
- Mid-range: Most popular apartment microwaves fall here, offering a good balance of size, power, and features like presets and stainless steel finishes. The TOSHIBA and other BLACK+DECKER models are typically found here.
- Higher-end (for this category): While not "luxury" by appliance standards, models with higher wattage, larger capacities, and more advanced presets might cost a bit more. The Farberware 1.1 cu. ft. can sometimes be at the higher end of the apartment microwave spectrum.
Ultimately, the best microwave for your apartment will depend on your specific needs for space, cooking habits, and desired features.
To see how these factors play out on real picks, compare the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven, TOSHIBA Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu.Ft 900W and the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven reviewed above.
Who Should NOT Buy Best Microwave for Apartment
While a compact countertop microwave is perfect for many apartment dwellers, it's not the right solution for everyone. Sometimes, your needs go beyond what this category can offer, and it's good to know when to look elsewhere before you spend your money.
You Need to Cook Full Meals Regularly
If you find yourself preparing complex dishes or cooking for more than one or two people on a regular basis, a compact microwave probably isn't going to cut it. These small units are best for reheating, defrosting, and simple cooking tasks. If you're looking to truly cook meals, you might need a more robust appliance like a toaster oven with convection capabilities or even a small countertop oven.
These offer more precise temperature control and larger cooking spaces, making them far better suited for baking, roasting, and preparing elaborate meals.
Your Kitchen Has Very Limited or No Counter Space
If your apartment kitchen is extremely small, with virtually no available counter space, a countertop microwave might still be a challenge. Even the most compact models require a dedicated spot. In such cases, you should consider alternatives like a microwave drawer.
These are installed under your cabinets or in a wall unit, freeing up your counter entirely. While they tend to be more expensive, they offer a sleek, integrated look and solve the space problem elegantly. Alternatively, some people opt for a microwave shelf that mounts to the wall or inside a cabinet.
You Need More Than Basic Reheating and Defrosting
If you're looking for advanced cooking functions beyond just heating and defrosting, like air frying, baking, or steaming with precision, a standard microwave isn't your best bet. For these more specialized cooking needs, you might want to explore combination microwave ovens that offer these additional features, or consider a dedicated appliance like an air fryer or a multi-cooker. These appliances are designed with specific cooking methods in mind and can often yield better results than a microwave trying to do too much.
Final Verdict
For most apartment dwellers, finding the right microwave is all about balancing size, power, and everyday usability. The BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven (0.7 Cu.Ft) stands out as the best overall choice because it nails the compact footprint without sacrificing essential functionality. It’s perfect for those tight counters and simple reheating tasks.
If you need a bit more oomph and space for larger portions, the TOSHIBA Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu.Ft 900W offers a great balance of power and a manageable size. For those prioritizing a quieter operation and energy savings, the COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven is a thoughtful addition to an apartment kitchen.
Remember, if your needs lean towards full meal preparation or if counter space is extremely limited, you might need to explore other appliance categories entirely. Always double-check that "Who Should NOT Buy" section to ensure you're making the most practical choice for your unique apartment setup.
FAQ
What's the best Microwave for Apartment overall?
The best microwave for an apartment overall is the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven (0.7 Cu.Ft) due to its ultra-compact size, making it ideal for limited counter space without sacrificing basic reheating and defrosting capabilities.
Are small microwaves powerful enough for apartment use?
Yes, for typical apartment use which often involves reheating leftovers, making popcorn, or defrosting small items, small microwaves with wattages around 700W to 900W are generally sufficient. They heat food effectively for these common tasks.
How much counter space do I need for an apartment microwave?
This varies by model, but most compact apartment microwaves (0.7-0.9 cu. ft.) require a footprint of roughly 17-20 inches wide, 10-15 inches deep, and 10-12 inches high. Always check the specific dimensions of the model you're considering to ensure it fits your available space.
What features are most important for an apartment microwave?
For apartment living, key features include a compact size to save counter space, adequate wattage (700W-900W) for efficient reheating, simple controls, and potentially features like a mute button or child lock for added convenience and safety.
Can I use a microwave with a child safety lock in an apartment?
Yes, a microwave with a child safety lock is a great idea for apartments, especially if you have children. This feature prevents accidental operation, adding a layer of safety to your kitchen.
