6 Best Compact Microwaves: 2025 Edition
We’ve all been there: craving a quick snack or wishing for a faster way to reheat dinner. But what if your kitchen is limited on space? Enter the compact microwave oven, a powerful kitchen companion designed to fit seamlessly into even the tiniest apartments or dorm rooms.
Choosing the right compact microwave can feel overwhelming with so many options available. Fear not! We’ve done the research and compiled a list of the top 6 best compact microwave ovens on the market. From budget-friendly picks to feature-packed powerhouses, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to discover the perfect compact microwave to elevate your cooking and simplify your life.
6. TOSHIBA ML2-EC10SA(BS) 8-in-1 Air Fryer Microwave
The TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 is a compact countertop appliance that aims to streamline your kitchen with its multi-functional capabilities. It boasts eight cooking functions: microwave, air fry, bake (convection), broil, combi, low temp, odor removal, and defrost. This makes it a potentially attractive option for those looking to replace multiple appliances with a single unit.
While the concept is appealing, the execution falls a bit short. The air fryer function, while capable of achieving crispy results, lacks the power and capacity of dedicated air fryers. Don’t expect to cook large batches of fries or wings with ease. The microwave power, at 1000 watts, is decent but not exceptional. The 1.0 cubic foot capacity is adequate for a small household but might feel limiting for larger families.
The 12.4-inch position memory turntable is a nice touch, allowing you to easily reheat leftovers or cook even dishes like a whole roasted chicken. The control panel features straightforward, easy-to-turn knobs and one-touch buttons for popcorn, which adds to the user-friendliness. The “odor removal” function is a clever addition, though its effectiveness might vary depending on the type and intensity of the odor.
Overall, the TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 is a decent option for those seeking a space-saving appliance with multiple cooking functions. However, its limited capacity and power in certain functions might leave some users wanting more. It’s important to consider these limitations before making a purchase, especially if you frequently cook for larger groups or have specific air frying needs. The value for money is decent, but dedicated appliances might offer better performance in their respective areas.
5. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) is a compact microwave oven that’s perfectly sized for smaller kitchens or apartments. While it ranks #5 out of 6 similar microwaves, it still offers some appealing features. The 0.9 cubic foot capacity is adequate for reheating leftovers or cooking small meals for one or two people. I found the 10.6-inch glass turntable to be spacious enough for most of my needs, and the 900-watt power output heated food quickly and evenly. The LED lighting inside the microwave is bright and clear, making it easy to see what you’re cooking.
One of the highlights of this microwave is its user-friendliness. The control panel is simple and straightforward, with clear buttons and icons. The 6 preset menus for common foods like popcorn, pizza, and potatoes are a nice touch, saving you time and effort. I also appreciated the 11 power levels, allowing for greater control over cooking times and temperatures. The defrost function worked well, and the one-touch start feature for quick reheating was incredibly convenient.
However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The child lock system, while important for safety, requires a two-step process which can be a bit cumbersome. Additionally, the mute function, while helpful for silencing the beep, only works temporarily.
Overall, the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) is a decent microwave for its price point. It’s compact, easy to use, and has enough power for basic cooking needs. While it may not be the most feature-rich microwave on the market, it gets the job done. Just be aware of the limitations before making your purchase.
4. GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave 1.0 Cu. Ft
The GE GCST10A1WSS is a multi-functional microwave oven that aims to combine the convenience of a microwave with the versatility of an air fryer, broiler, and convection oven. While it does offer a decent amount of functionality in a compact package, there are some limitations to consider.
One of the most appealing features of this appliance is its 4-in-1 functionality. The air fryer mode, for instance, allows you to cook crispy fries and nuggets without the need for excessive oil, making it a healthier option. The convection mode, with its special rack, helps distribute heat evenly, resulting in nicely browned baked goods. The broiler function is handy for searing meats and achieving that crispy caramelized finish. The preset controls for fries and nuggets are a nice touch, simplifying the cooking process.
However, the 1.0 cubic foot capacity can feel limiting, especially when cooking for larger families or preparing more substantial meals. The oven also lacks advanced features found in some higher-end models, such as sensor cooking or steam cooking options. I found the control panel to be somewhat basic and lacking in intuitiveness. While the two-step child lock is a welcome safety feature, it can be a bit cumbersome to operate.
Overall, the GE GCST10A1WSS is a decent option for those seeking a compact and multi-functional appliance. Its air fryer, broiler, and convection capabilities expand its culinary potential beyond basic microwaving. However, its limited capacity and lack of advanced features might not make it the ideal choice for everyone. If you’re looking for a feature-rich and spacious oven, you might want to explore other options. For smaller households or those on a budget, this model could be a practical solution, but don’t expect it to replace a full-sized oven.
3. Farberware 700W Microwave, LED Lighting, Stainless Steel
The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a solid contender for those seeking a compact and functional microwave for smaller spaces. Boasting 700 watts of power and a 0.7 cubic foot capacity, it offers a decent amount of cooking space without taking up too much counter real estate. The ten power levels and multi-stage cooking functionality provide flexibility for various dishes, and the six one-touch options for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and more are a welcome convenience.
I found the LED display to be clear and easy to read, and the interior lighting was helpful for monitoring progress. The child safety lock is a great feature for households with young children. However, the manual controls can feel a bit dated compared to more modern microwaves with touchscreens or digital interfaces.
While the 0.7 cubic foot capacity is sufficient for smaller meals and snacks, it might feel cramped if you regularly cook for larger groups or need to reheat large dishes. The truth is, this microwave excels at quick reheating and simple cooking tasks, but it might struggle with larger or more complex recipes.
Overall, the Farberware Countertop Microwave offers a decent balance of features and functionality for its price point. It’s a reliable option for small kitchens or dorms, but users who frequently cook larger meals or require more advanced features might want to consider a larger or more feature-rich model.
2. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Sound On/Off Microwave
The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB is a great countertop microwave for everyday use. I was impressed with its sleek black design and compact size, making it a perfect fit for my kitchen counter. The 0.7 cubic foot capacity is ample for reheating leftovers, cooking small meals, and even popping a bag of popcorn. The bright digital display and easy-to-read control panel make navigating the settings a breeze. I especially appreciated the one-touch express cooking options, which allowed me to quickly reheat coffee or defrost a frozen entree with just a single button press.
One of the features that stood out to me was the ECO mode. This mode significantly reduces standby power consumption, which is great for both the environment and my electricity bill. The mute function was also a nice touch, allowing me to silence the beeps if I needed to. The interior light is helpful for checking on food without opening the door and letting heat escape. The 10-inch glass turntable rotates food evenly, ensuring that everything cooks thoroughly.
The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB comes with a variety of pre-programmed settings for common cooking tasks, including popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and reheat. These settings are very convenient and often produce excellent results. The defrost settings, which allow you to defrost by weight or time, are also quite useful. While the microwave does a great job overall, I did find that the defrost settings could be a bit finicky at times.
Overall, the COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB is an excellent value for the price. It’s a feature-packed microwave that offers a user-friendly experience and a range of convenient cooking options. If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable countertop microwave, I highly recommend checking this one out.
1. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave, Child Lock
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering a blend of power, convenience, and user-friendly design. As a daily driver in my own home, I can confidently say it excels in its core functions and delivers excellent value for its price point.
What sets this microwave apart is its intuitive interface. The large LED display makes setting cooking times and power levels a breeze, while the pre-programmed buttons for common items like popcorn, potato, pizza, and beverages add a touch of convenience. The 700 watts of power, paired with 10 power settings, ensures efficient and versatile cooking, from quick reheating to defrosting. I particularly appreciate the 30-Second Express Cooking feature, which is perfect for those grab-and-go moments.
Safety and ease of use are also top priorities. The child safety lock provides peace of mind, preventing accidental activation. The push-button door release makes accessing food a simple task, and the interior light illuminates the cooking space for clear visibility. The removable 10″ glass turntable ensures even heating, and the overall compact design (17.3″ x 13.0″ x 10.2″) makes it a perfect fit for smaller kitchens.
While the EM720CB7 doesn’t boast any fancy bells and whistles like convection cooking, it delivers everything you need in a reliable, everyday microwave. Its robust performance, straightforward controls, and thoughtful safety features make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a dependable and value-packed microwave oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size microwave oven is considered compact?
A: A compact microwave oven typically has a capacity between 0.5 and 1.0 cubic feet. This size is ideal for individuals, couples, or small households.
Q: What features should I look for in a compact microwave?
A: When choosing a compact microwave, consider features like power level settings, sensor cooking, defrost options, a turntable, and ease of cleaning. A digital display and programmable settings can also be helpful.
Q: Where can I find reviews and comparisons of compact microwave ovens?
A: Reputable consumer review websites like CNET, Consumer Reports, and Wirecutter offer in-depth reviews and comparisons of various compact microwave ovens. You can also check out user reviews on online retailers like Amazon.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect compact microwave oven depends on your individual needs and space constraints. Whether you prioritize power, features, or sleek design, this list has highlighted top contenders for every kitchen. With a little research and consideration, you can find the compact microwave that will efficiently and conveniently heat your meals for years to come.
