Small countertop microwaves are designed for apartments, dorms, and offices where space is at a premium. This guide compares five compact models with practical presets, safety features, and energy-saving modes to help you choose a reliable, easy-to-use option without sacrificing essential performance.
| Product | Brand | Capacity | Power | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB | COMFEE’ | 0.7 cu ft | 700W | Mute function; Eco Mode |
| BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 | BLACK+DECKER | 0.7 cu ft | 700W | Pre-programmed presets; child lock |
| Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. | Farberware | 0.7 cu ft | 700W | Auto cook settings; defrost |
| TOSHIBA MM-EM07PA | TOSHIBA | 0.7 cu ft | 700W | ChefDefrost; Eco Mode |
| Chefman 0.9 Cu. Ft. | Chefman | 0.9 cu ft | 900W | 6 presets; Eco Mode |
COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave
The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB offers a compact 0.7 cu ft interior and 700 watts of cooking power, ideal for quick meals, snacks, and reheating. It features a mute function for quiet operation, a clock and kitchen timer, child safety lock, and easy auto-cook options for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and reheating. The One-Touch Express Cooking function supports 1–6 minutes with a plus 30 seconds option, alongside two defrost modes by weight or time. An Energy Saving ECO Mode reduces standby power to conserve energy in idle periods.
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven
The 1.2 cu ft EM131A5C-BS includes a 12.4″ glass turntable and Smart Sensor Technology to adjust time and power based on food humidity, aiming for consistently well-cooked results. It offers six preset menus for common foods, a mute function, energy-saving ECO Mode, and easy cleanup interior surfaces. While larger than the smallest models, its compact footprint fits many kitchen setups with a user-friendly interface.
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Oven, Silver
This silver variant of the EM131A5C-SS mirrors the EM131A5C-BS with a 1.2 cu ft capacity and Smart Humidity Sensor. It provides 12.4″ turntable support, six auto menus, a mute function, and ECO Mode for energy-conscious operation. It emphasizes consistent moisture-based cooking to minimize overcooking and drying out foods in a compact frame.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.7 Cu Ft
The Chefman model brings a compact 0.7 cu ft interior with 700 watts and 10 power levels. It includes six one-touch presets for quick meals and beverages, plus an Express Cook option and Eco Mode for energy savings. The user-friendly digital controls simplify setup, while a child safety lock adds an extra layer of safety in shared spaces.
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Countertop Microwave
BLACK+DECKER’s 0.7 cu ft model delivers 700 watts, with ten power settings and pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, vegetables, beverage, and dinner plate. It features a clock, kitchen timer, 30-second express cooking, a large LED display, and a child safety lock. The interior includes a removable 10” glass turntable for easy cleaning and flexible placement in smaller kitchens.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft.
The 0.9 cu ft Chefman model offers 900 watts and 10 power levels, plus six cooking presets and a One-Touch Express Cook function. Eco Mode helps reduce standby power, while the digital controls allow precise timing and power adjustments. A child safety lock and mute option provide safer, quieter operation in shared spaces.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Small Countertop Microwaves
- Capacity and footprint: Choose 0.7–0.9 cu ft for the smallest kitchens; 0.9–1.2 cu ft suits those needing slightly larger plates and containers.
- Power and speed: Look for 700–900W for efficient reheating and cooking; higher wattage generally means shorter cook times.
- Presets and sensors: Auto-cook menus and humidity sensors help prevent undercooking or overcooking with minimal effort.
- Safety features: Child safety lock, mute function, and easy-to-clean interiors improve everyday safety and convenience.
- Energy efficiency: Eco Mode or similar standby-power reductions can lower energy use over time.
- Interface and accessibility: Intuitive controls and clear displays reduce setup time and frustration in busy kitchens.
- Durability and warranty: Consider build quality, door reliability, and manufacturer warranty when evaluating long-term value.
- Cleaning and maintenance: Removable turntables and smooth interior surfaces ease routine cleaning and upkeep.
In sum, compact microwaves deliver essential reheating and cooking capabilities without occupying valuable counter space. The models listed above balance compact design with practical features to support daily use in small kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices.