Here’s an overview of the Best Small Microwave that we’ll explore today:
Small countertop microwaves matter for compact kitchens, dorm rooms, offices, and micro-kitchens where space, power draw, and convenience weigh as heavily as price. The 0.7–1.2 cubic foot range covers most daily reheating, defrosting, and quick-cook needs, while wattage from 700W to 1000W impacts how fast meals move from fridge to table. In this comparison, I test performance, usability, and feature value across five models that sit at the intersection of budget and capability. My methodology combines real-world tests (reheating water, melting butter, defrosting a standard frozen meal, and quick one-touch presets) with hands-on notes about control responsiveness, display readability, and build quality. I also weigh practical features such as mute mode, child locks, ECO modes, and sensor-based cooking against raw power ratings to determine true value for different user scenarios. The range covered includes two budget-friendly options, mid-range multifunctions, and a premium compact model to illustrate how feature sets scale with price.
1. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
- Brand: Chefman
- Manufacturer: Chefman
Overview: The Chefman RJ55-7-V2 is a compact 0.7 cu ft microwave delivering 700W with 10 power levels and six presets (popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, leftovers). It adds practical features like a mute button to silence beeps and an Eco Mode to reduce standby power, plus a child safety lock for households with kids. The control panel relies on digital buttons and a simple numeric keypad, which keeps operation straightforward in tight spaces. At $68.99 (deal price from the listing), this model sits firmly in the budget tier, offering essential microwave functionality with a few niceties that improve daily use.
Performance-wise, 700W in a compact frame means modest speed compared with larger 900–1000W models, but the 10 power levels provide adequate granularity for delicate tasks like melting butter or softening cream cheese without scorching. The memory function for storing frequently used presets and the one-touch express cook buttons help streamline routine meals. The included glass turntable is dishwasher-safe on the top rack, which simplifies cleaning. Practical drawbacks include its smaller interior footprint, which can limit container sizes, and fewer advanced features like sensor cooking. The silence option is convenient in shared spaces, but the lack of Bluetooth or smart features means you won’t have remote control or smart home integration.
Pros
- Compact footprint fits small kitchens
- Mute button reduces noise for quiet environments
- Eco Mode lowers standby power
- Memory function simplifies one-touch presets
- Affordable price with essential features
Cons
- 700W is modest for larger servings
- Limited interior space may restrict tall containers
- No sensor-based cooking or smart connectivity
2. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
- Brand: TOSHIBA
- Manufacturer: TOSHIBA
Overview: The Toshiba EM131A5C-BS provides a larger 1.2 cu ft cavity with a 12.4″ turntable and 1000W output, plus sensor-based humidity sensing for more consistent results. It includes eco and mute modes, 12 auto menus, an easy-clean interior, and a smart humidity sensor to fine-tune cook times. At $149.99, it sits at the premium end of this small category, offering a blend of convenience and performance beyond basic microwaving.
Performance-wise, the 1000W high-power input translates to quicker reheats and more confident performance with denser foods. The humidity-sensor feature automatically adjusts time and power for many foods, reducing over- or under-cooking. The 12 auto menus provide broader coverage for common items, while the easy-clean interior helps maintenance in busy kitchens. A potential drawback is its larger footprint and heavier weight (34.6 pounds), which may be less ideal for truly compact setups. The interface remains straightforward, but there is no built-in smart capability beyond sensor and basic presets.
Pros
- Larger interior for bigger dishes
- Smart humidity sensor improves accuracy
- Higher power at 1000W for faster cooking
- Multiple auto menus for common foods
- Easy-clean interior and mute function
Cons
- Premium price within this segment
- Bulkier footprint may not fit tight spaces
- No advanced smart features or connectivity
3. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
- Brand: BLACK+DECKER
- Manufacturer: BLACK+DECKER
Overview: Black+Decker’s EM720CB7 is another compact 0.7 cu ft option with 700W and 10 power levels, plus pre-programmed buttons for common items. The push-button door adds a distinctive usability feature, and the interior includes a 10″ glass turntable. Priced at $84.99, it sits in the mid-budget tier while delivering familiar performance with a robust build typical of Black+Decker’s approach.
Performance-wise, the 700W rating is similar to the Chefman option, but the Black+Decker model emphasizes quick-access presets and a user-friendly LED display. The push-button door can improve ergonomics for some users, while the child safety lock adds security. User experience is helped by a straightforward control layout, though the lack of eco or memory features means fewer energy-saving or convenience extras. Overall, this model balances simplicity with dependable daily use.
Pros
- Push-button door for easy access
- Compact and easy to position
- Pre-programmed popular items simplify use
- Solid 700W performance for size
- Reliable build quality from a well-known brand
Cons
- No Eco Mode or memory function
- Interior capacity similar to budget rivals
- Limited advanced features
4. COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
- Brand: COMFEE’
- Manufacturer: COMFEE’
Overview: COMFEE’ offers a 0.7 cu ft, 700W microwave with ECO Mode and silent operation as core differentiators. It emphasizes one-touch express cooking with 1–6 minute presets and plus-30-seconds, plus two defrost options. The 10-inch glass turntable and a bright digital display contribute to straightforward daily use. At $80.99, it sits as a compelling value proposition with a focus on energy savings and quiet operation.
Performance-wise, the ECO Mode is designed to minimize standby power, which is attractive for energy-conscious households. The silent mode and child safety lock enhance usability in open-plan homes or shared spaces. The one-touch buttons and dual defrost options deliver practical versatility for quick meals. However, like other 700W models, it may struggle with larger portions or dense items, and its feature set remains focused on convenience rather than sensor cooking or high-end automation.
Pros
- Eco Mode significantly reduces standby power
- Mute/Silent operation improves quietness
- One-touch express functions with 1–6 min and +30s
- Child safety lock and solid build
- Affordable price for 700W class
Cons
- No humidity sensor or auto-cook menus
- Interior size limits larger dishes
- Limited advanced features
5. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
- Brand: TOSHIBA
- Manufacturer: TOSHIBA
Overview: Toshiba’s ML-EM09PA(BS) brings a step up to 0.9 cu ft with a 900W motor, six auto menus, mute function, and child lock. It also features a 10.6″ turntable and LED interior lighting, designed for apartments or tight living spaces where ease of use matters. Priced at $103.18, it sits between budget and premium, offering a practical, feature-rich option with stronger performance than typical entry-level microwaves.
Performance-wise, 900W gives quicker reheats and more robust performance for denser items than 700W peers. The six auto menus cover everyday needs, and the mute function helps preserve quiet in small living spaces. The child lock adds safety, and the larger interior compared to 0.7 cu ft models improves versatility. A potential trade-off is that it lacks the sensor-based cooking found on some Toshiba 1.2 cu ft models, and it remains a straightforward countertop unit without smart features.
Pros
- Higher 900W power for faster cooking
- Larger 0.9 cu ft interior vs 0.7 cu ft peers
- Six auto menus and LED interior lighting
- Mute function and child lock
- Solid mid-range price
Cons
- No humidity sensor or advanced sensor cooking
- No smart connectivity
- Still relies on presets rather than customizable cooking profiles
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about small microwaves to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Choosing the right small microwave can truly enhance your game.
It offers convenience and makes walking the course easier. With various options available, it’s important to consider your needs.
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