8 Best Compact Counter Microwaves of 2025 for Small Spaces and Efficiency
Looking for a small microwave that fits well in tight spaces and works reliably? You are in the right place.
There are many compact models made for small areas that deliver quick, simple results.
Picking the best one depends on finding key features that meet your needs. Good brands and smart designs make daily use easier.
Let’s check out some of the top compact microwaves for 2025. These choices give you space-saving sizes combined with effective performance.
They help make cooking, reheating, and snacks simple and fast.
TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus & Child Lock
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to...
- Microwave output power 900 watts, input power 1400 watts. External dimensions 18.7x 14.7x 10.7 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 14.6x13.1x 8.4 inches...
- 6 Preset Menus: This compact microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potato and more.
If you need a small microwave that is easy to use and safe, the TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven is a good choice. It has six auto menus that make cooking simple. Its size is 0.9 cubic feet, which fits well in small spaces. The black stainless steel looks modern and stylish. The microwave can cook foods like popcorn and pizza quickly with its six auto menus. The child lock keeps children from accidentally using it. The mute button turns off alarms when needed. It has a power of 900 watts and offers multiple levels for flexible cooking. The large display and easy controls make it simple to operate. The compact design is ideal for apartments, dorms, or small kitchens.
Best For: people who want a small, easy-to-use microwave with safety features for small kitchens, apartments, or dorm rooms.
Pros:
- Its small size fits well in limited counter space.
- It can hold standard plates up to 10.5 inches.
- Easy controls with big buttons and auto menus make cooking simple for everyone.
- The black stainless steel finish looks modern and stylish.
Cons:
- It offers only six auto menus, so it may lack some advanced cooking options.
- The inside space is small, which can limit larger foods or multiple servings.
- Some users may want more features or higher power for more cooking choices.
BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.Voltage : 110 Volts.Rated Input Power(Microwave):1050W
- 700 Watts with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 Seconds Express Cooking
- Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 10” glass turntable
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 digital microwave oven features a turntable and a compact size. Its dimensions are 17.3 inches by 13 inches by 10.2 inches. The microwave weighs 22.5 pounds, making it easy to move and place on your countertop. It provides 700 watts of power and 10 adjustable levels. This allows for quick and efficient heating of food. The oven has pre-programmed buttons for tasks like popcorn and pizza. The large LED display makes it simple to monitor cooking progress. Its removable 10-inch glass turntable ensures even heating of food. Safety lock functions add extra security during use.
Best For: People with small kitchens or limited counter space who want an easy-to-use microwave for reheating and common cooking tasks.
Pros:
- Compact size saves space on your counter
- Multiple pre-set buttons for quick use
- Easy-to-clean interior with a removable turntable
Cons:
- Control labels are not backlit, which makes them hard to see in low light
- Some users report noise and stability issues on certain surfaces
- Concerns about durability in the interior coating and limited support from warranty services
TOSHIBA ML4-EM09PA Small Countertop Microwave Oven
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to...
- 6 Preset Menus: Compact microwave oven features 6 preset menu options for effortless cooking of dinner, snacks, beverages, and much more.
- 11 Unique Power Levels: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from...
Looking for a small microwave that fits in tight spaces like dorm rooms, apartments, or compact countertops? The TOSHIBA ML4-EM09PA has a 0.9 cubic foot capacity, measuring 18.7 x 14.7 x 10.7 inches. It offers 900W of power with inverter technology for quick, even heating and melting. The microwave features six auto preset menus and 11 power levels, giving you control for a variety of tasks. Its bright LED interior light makes it easy to see inside, and simple controls keep operation straightforward. Safety features like a child lock provide additional peace of mind. Users say it heats well and runs quietly, making it a good choice for small spaces.
Pros:
- Compact size with a 0.9 cubic foot capacity fits easily in small areas
- 900W power with inverter technology for fast, even heating
- Easy-to-use controls with a bright interior LED and child lock safety feature
Cons:
- Control panel may be hard to read if dim or may wear out over time
- Some users report issues with durability and quality control
- Customer support and warranty services can be slow or unresponsive
This microwave is ideal for anyone needing a reliable, space-saving option for quick heating and cooking in small homes, dorms, or offices.
Farberware Countertop Microwave 900 Watts, 0.9 Cu. Ft
- CONVENIENT MICROWAVE: Prepare quick and easy meals in a snap with our powerful microwave. It packs 900 of output power and features a range of settings for...
- POWERFUL SETTINGS: This microwave has ten power levels with multi-stage cooking. You can fully customize your cooking with six one-touch options, including...
- PERFECT SIZE: Measuring 0.9 cu ft, this microwave is the ideal small-space solution that offers full-sized cooking in a compact space. It features an...
The Farberware Countertop Microwave offers a simple solution for small spaces like apartments, dorms, or break rooms. It has a compact size that fits easily on countertops without taking up too much room. The microwave provides 900 watts of power, so it heats food quickly and efficiently. Its 0.9 cubic foot capacity allows for reheating and cooking most small meals and snacks with ease. The stainless steel exterior makes cleaning simple and keeps the look modern. The LED display makes it easy to see and operate.
This microwave features ten power levels and multi-stage cooking, so you can customize how you heat your food. It includes six quick-start options for common foods such as popcorn, pizza, or potatoes. The defrost setting helps you thaw frozen items safely and quickly. The child safety lock helps prevent accidental use by kids, giving parents peace of mind.
Ideal for anyone needing a reliable, space-friendly microwave that covers basic cooking and reheating needs. Its straightforward controls and compact design make it easy to use every day.
Pros:
- Fits well in small spaces while delivering 900 watts of power
- Easy to clean stainless steel exterior
- Multiple cooking options, including quick start and defrost
Cons:
- Button layout may feel awkward for some users
- Operation noise could bother sensitive people
- Capacity might be small for cooking larger meals
GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.7 Cu Ft, 700W, Stainless Steel
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: Simple, one-touch operation with Instant On express cooking controls and multiple cooking modes; kitchen timer, child lock controls and...
- COMPACT YET POWERFUL: 700 watts of power and 0.7 cu. ft. inside allow for effective, efficient cooking while not taking up valuable kitchen space
- EASY SET UP: Freestanding microwave fits easily on countertop or open shelf, with 39 power cord
If you need a small, space-saving microwave for tight kitchens, dorms, or apartments, the GE Countertop Microwave Oven is a good option. Its size is 17.31 x 12.75 x 10.19 inches, so it fits easily on countertops or open shelves. The microwave has a stainless steel finish that looks modern and stylish. It provides 700 watts of power, which heats food evenly. A glass turntable helps with even cooking. The controls are simple, using an electronic keypad with auto and manual defrost options. It also has a child lock for safety. Because it uses 700 watts, it takes longer to cook than higher-wattage models. Still, it works well for reheating and basic cooking tasks. It is reliable for small amounts of food and everyday use.
Best For: People with small kitchens, students, singles, or anyone who needs a compact microwave for simple reheating and cooking.
Pros:
- Small size fits on countertops or shelves in small spaces
- Modern stainless steel look adds style
- Easy-to-use electronic controls with defrost options
Cons:
- Less powerful (700W), so cooking may take longer
- Some users report issues with durability and internal damage
- Limited space inside may not fit larger foods or multiple servings at once
Panasonic NN-SB438S Compact Microwave Oven, 0.9 cft, Black Stainless Steel
- Microwave Power and Innovation: 900 Watts of High Power for fast, even cooking and delicious results
- Simple Microwave Controls: 7 Preset Auto Cook Menu Items; Delay Start and Timer; More/Less Control; Child Safety Lock; Quick 30sec and Popcorn Button with 3...
- Minimum Countertop Footprint: Smart, compact microwave oven occupies less space for electronics and more for interior capacity
The Panasonic NN-SB438S Compact Microwave Oven is a good choice for small spaces or tight kitchens. Its size is 14.8 x 19.1 x 11.5 inches, and it has a 0.9 cubic foot capacity. With 900 watts of power, it heats food quickly and evenly. It is simple to use, with 7 preset auto cook options, a Quick 30-second button, and a child safety lock. Some users mention that the interior light is dim, which makes it hard to see inside. A few also report that the oven may have reliability issues over time. The exterior can get fingerprints easily, and the buttons are not illuminated. Overall, this microwave is practical for those who need a space-saving device for basic tasks like reheating and defrosting.
Best For: Small households or kitchens with limited space that want an inexpensive, easy-to-use microwave for everyday heating and quick meals.
Pros:
- Compact size fits small countertops.
- Easy controls with automatic cook options and quick start button.
- Heats food fast and evenly with 900 watts power.
Cons:
- Interior light is dim.
- Some users experience early product failures.
- The exterior shows fingerprints easily, and buttons are not backlit.
BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate
- 900 Watts with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 seconds express cooking
- Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 10.6” glass turntable
The BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable has a small, space-saving design. It’s perfect for tiny kitchens, apartments, or spots with limited countertop room. It features a 0.9 cubic foot capacity and a stainless steel exterior. The microwave includes a push-button door, child safety lock, interior light, and a removable 10.6-inch glass turntable. With 900 watts of power, it offers multiple preset buttons and 10 power levels for quick, accurate cooking. The large LED display and easy-to-use controls make operation simple. Safety features help ensure secure use in any setting.
Best For: People who want a reliable, stylish microwave in small spaces with straightforward controls and safety.
Pros:
- Compact size fits small kitchens or apartments
- Multiple preset buttons for fast cooking
- Easy to clean with removable glass turntable
Cons:
- Capacity may not suit large dishes or family meals
- Basic features, no advanced cooking options
- Limited to 900 watts, which can extend cooking times for some foods
Emerson MW9005SS Compact Countertop Microwave Oven
- Sleek appearance with our stainless-steel front and black cabinet that has an output power of 900 Watts and 0.9 cubic feet of cooking space with a removable...
- Easy push open door for convenient use with 5 power levels for precise cooking control and 6 pre-programmed settings for popular food items (popcorn, potato,...
- Time and weight defrost options for hassle-free thawing with 60 minute cooking timer for accurate cooking time management
Are you looking for a microwave that offers strong performance in a small, stylish package? The Emerson MW9005SS delivers 900 watts of power and a 0.9-cubic-foot capacity. Its compact size makes it easy to place in small kitchens without taking up too much space. The stainless steel front and black body give it a modern look that fits well with contemporary kitchens. The glass turntable heats food evenly and is simple to clean. A digital LED display shows settings clearly, and the child-safe lock keeps the microwave safe for families. It has five power levels, automatic cooking presets, and defrost functions that simplify everyday tasks. While some users mention that the interior is white enamel instead of stainless steel, many praise its quick cooking, attractive design, and easy controls. Overall, it is a dependable choice for efficient, small-space cooking.
Best For: Individuals who want a compact, stylish microwave with fast performance for small kitchens and everyday use.
Pros:
- Small size fits easily in tight spaces
- Stylish stainless steel front and modern design
- Multiple preset options and simple controls
Cons:
- Interior is white enamel, not stainless steel
- Some users find it hard to contact customer support
- Minor mismatch between product description and actual interior finish
Factors to Consider When Choosing Compact CounterMicrowaves in 2025
When choosing a compact counter microwave, consider its size and capacity. The microwave should fit well in your space and match your cooking needs. Look at its power level and energy efficiency for quick and cost-effective use. Choose controls that are simple and easy to operate. Safety features like a child lock or automatic shut-off protect your household. Also, select a design that matches your kitchen’s style. Clearer choices help you find a microwave that is practical, safe, and visually appealing.
Size and Capacity
Choosing the right size and capacity for a small microwave depends on your space and how much food you cook. Compact microwaves usually range from 0.7 to 0.9 cubic feet. These sizes fit well in small kitchens or on countertops. The outside dimensions are about 17 to 19 inches wide and 10 to 12 inches deep. These sizes help the microwave fit in tight spots. Inside, most models can fit dinner plates up to 10.5 inches across. Larger capacity microwaves can hold more or bigger amounts of food. However, they are usually bigger in size and less portable. Pick a microwave size that matches your daily use. This will prevent crowding and make sure your space works well for your needs.
Power and Efficiency
Have you wondered how microwave power and efficiency affect your cooking? Microwaves with higher wattages, between 900W and 1100W, heat food faster and more evenly, saving you time. Energy efficiency improves with inverter technology, which delivers a steady power flow and reduces waste during use. You can adjust power levels from 1 to 10, giving you better control over cooking strength. This helps prevent overcooking or undercooking different foods. When choosing a small microwave, consider the balance between size and wattage. Larger models usually have higher wattage for quick heating, but smaller units with enough power still work efficiently. Knowing how wattage influences cooking time helps you pick a microwave that offers both speed and energy savings. This ensures your appliance matches your needs without sacrificing performance.
User Interface Ease
A user-friendly interface makes your microwave easy to operate and accessible for everyone. Choose models with large, clearly labeled buttons and a simple control panel to make use straightforward. Features like backlit displays, high-contrast text, and easy-to-read icons improve visibility in any lighting. This reduces mistakes and confusion. Preset auto-cook menus and quick-start buttons allow you to operate the microwave with just one touch. This saves time and effort. Clear audio alerts and mute options help you manage notifications quietly. Responsive controls with tactile feedback make every press feel intentional. Adjustments become easier and more precise. A well-designed interface minimizes frustration and increases convenience. It also helps everyone, regardless of experience, to use your microwave confidently.
Safety Features
Are safety features enough to make you feel confident when using a small countertop microwave? They are important, but not always sufficient. Child lock systems prevent children from starting or opening the microwave by accident. Some models use two-step locks that require multiple actions to bypass. Auto shut-off and door interlocks turn off the microwave immediately when the door opens, protecting you from microwave radiation. Indicator lights show the status of the microwave clearly. Mute functions reduce noise during operation, making the experience quieter. Look for clear labels and simple safety controls. These features help you understand how to use the microwave safely and prevent mistakes. Choosing a microwave with good safety features makes it safer and easier to use in small spaces.
Design and Aesthetics
When choosing a compact countertop microwave in 2025, focus on its design and look. Select appliances with finishes like stainless steel, black, or metallic colors to match modern kitchens. Use simple controls with big, easy-to-read buttons and displays for clear operation. Interior lighting and transparent glass turntables improve usability and add a stylish touch. Make sure the microwave’s size and style fit well into your limited counter space, whether in a small kitchen or dorm room. Many models include safety features like child locks, mute buttons, and soft-close doors. These functions combine safety with a clean appearance. Good design makes the microwave both attractive and easy to use, helping it blend seamlessly into your space.
Durability and Quality
In 2025, choosing a durable compact microwave requires checking its materials and build quality. Look for models with stainless steel interiors and strong plastic parts. These materials prevent cracking and bubbling over time. Manufacturing consistency is important, as some units fail within a year due to quality issues. Reliable models have sturdy turntables, door mechanisms, and control panels that resist wear from everyday use. Customer reviews can show which units maintain heating and controls after years of use. Picking brands with good warranties and responsive support helps address durability concerns. This way, your microwave stays a dependable part of your small space for years to come.
Price and Warranty
In 2025, the cost of compact countertop microwaves usually ranges from $150 to $250. The price depends on features, size, and brand name. When buying, consider the warranty as well as the price. Many models come with warranties that last one to three years. Longer warranties often show that the maker has confidence in the product or that it is of higher quality. Read the warranty terms carefully. Find out what parts, labor, or defects are covered. Some brands offer limited support or shorter warranties. Cheap models may have shorter warranties but still work well if customers say the product is reliable and the brand is trusted. Also, check how easy it is to get warranty help or make a claim. Good customer service makes fixing problems after the purchase easier and less stressful.
Hi, I’m Liza Jensen, your culinary companion here at Recipe by Liza. 🍳🥗Cooking has always been my passion—I find joy in every whisk, every sizzle, and every aromatic spice. As a home cook and recipe developer, I’ve explored flavors from around the world, creating dishes that warm hearts and tantalize taste buds.Join me on this flavorful journey! Let’s swap kitchen stories, share tips, and celebrate the magic of food together.
