8 Best Size Microwave Ovens of 2025

With its vibrant retro flair and compact 0.7 cu ft footprint, the Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 is a style-first microwave that doesn’t sacrifice functionality. Its 700W magnetron with 6 power levels handles basic reheating and defrosting tasks efficiently, making it ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or office spaces where space-saving design meets eye-catching aesthetics. The pull handle mechanism and LED interior lighting add a touch of vintage charm while improving usability—no more fumbling with push-button doors or guessing if your food is done.

In real-world use, the Galanz delivers consistent performance for light-duty cooking, from warming coffee to defrosting frozen snacks. The 360° rotating glass turntable ensures even heat distribution, though power limitations become apparent when trying to cook denser foods like baked potatoes or full meals. It lacks sensor cooking or presets, so manual input is required, which may frustrate users seeking automation. Still, for simple tasks, the easy-to-read LED display and audible three-beep finish signal provide clear feedback.

Compared to similarly sized models like the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM, the Galanz stands out with its distinctive Bebop Blue finish and nostalgic design—but trades off some modern conveniences like mute function or eco mode. It’s best suited for style-conscious users who prioritize kitchen decor over smart features. While it doesn’t offer the versatility of larger or higher-wattage models, it nails the basics with flair, making it a solid pick among small microwaves where looks matter as much as function.

The Chefman 0.9 cu ft microwave punches well above its weight class, combining 900W power, 10 precise power levels, and six one-touch presets into a sleek, compact package that redefines value in countertop cooking. It’s engineered for those who demand speed and simplicity without cluttering their kitchen—whether you’re reheating leftovers, popping popcorn, or melting butter, the intuitive digital controls and +30 seconds express button make operation seamless. The inclusion of eco mode and mute function shows thoughtful design for energy efficiency and quiet environments.

During testing, this microwave excelled in daily convenience scenarios: beverages heated evenly in 90 seconds, frozen veggies cooked crisp in 3 minutes, and pizza revived without sogginess thanks to its balanced power output. The glass turntable rotates smoothly, promoting even cooking, while the interior light lets you monitor food without interrupting the cycle. However, it can struggle slightly with very thick foods due to its compact cavity, and the beeps—though muteable—are initially loud. Still, its cETL certification and durable wipe-clean exterior speak to reliable build quality.

When stacked against the Galanz 0.7 cu ft model, the Chefman offers more power, more features, and greater capacity at nearly the same price point. It’s a smarter choice than basic budget models and holds its own against pricier options by focusing on essential functionality done right. For students, singles, or small households needing a no-fuss, high-performance compact microwave, this one delivers exceptional bang for the buck—proving you don’t need luxury branding to get premium results.

The Breville BMO650SIL is a masterclass in quiet sophistication, engineered for users who value peaceful operation and refined details in their kitchen appliances. With an 80% quieter soft-close door and 50% reduction in operational noise, it eliminates the jarring clangs and beeps common in most microwaves—making it perfect for late-night snacks or households with light sleepers. Its 900W output and 0.9 cu ft capacity strike a balance between compact size and practical performance, while one-touch shortcuts for popcorn, beverage, reheat, and defrost streamline everyday use.

Real-world testing confirms its superior noise control: the door shuts with a gentle thud, and the internal fan hums at a minimal level, unlike the high-pitched whine of budget models. The Reheat and Defrost functions use adaptive lower power to prevent food from drying out—a boon for delicate dishes like lasagna or fish. However, despite its Breville Sound Suite technology, the control panel beeps are still present (though muteable), and the absence of sensor cooking means you’ll need to manually adjust times for best results. It’s also heavier than comparable units, which may affect portability.

Compared to the Chefman 0.9 cu ft model, the Breville trades raw value for premium build and acoustic refinement—a trade-off that makes sense for noise-sensitive environments. While it doesn’t offer presets beyond the basics or eco mode, its soft-close mechanism and elegant silver finish elevate it beyond utilitarian appliances. For professionals in studio apartments, parents with sleeping babies, or anyone who hates kitchen noise pollution, this microwave offers a serene, high-end experience that justifies its higher cost through superior user comfort and quiet precision.

The BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 is a workhorse of mid-size microwaving, delivering 1000W of cooking power in a spacious 1.1 cu ft cavity—making it a top contender for budget-minded families who need room for larger plates and deeper dishes. Its removable 12.4” glass turntable accommodates full dinner plates, while pre-programmed buttons for pizza, popcorn, vegetables, and beverages eliminate guesswork. The push-button door release adds convenience, and the large LED display ensures settings are always visible, even in bright kitchens.

In performance tests, this microwave proved remarkably consistent across a range of tasks: reheating casseroles without cold spots, cooking potatoes evenly, and defrosting meat efficiently using time-based settings. The 30-second express cook feature is a small but meaningful time-saver, and the 10 power levels allow for nuanced control, from gentle warming to rapid boiling. However, the lack of sensor cooking means you’ll need to manually adjust times for optimal results, and the stainless steel finish, while stylish, shows fingerprints easily. Still, its solid build and reliable output make it a dependable daily driver.

Against the Toshiba ML-EM45P(BS), it offers similar wattage but less advanced tech, missing smart sensors and position-memory turntable. Yet for those who want more cooking space than compact models without paying for high-end features, this BLACK+DECKER hits a sweet spot. It’s the go-to choice for first-time homeowners, college graduates, or small families needing a capable, no-nonsense mid-size microwave that delivers strong performance at a modest price—balancing size, power, and simplicity better than most in its class.

The Toshiba ML-EM45P(BS) is the undisputed king of all-around performance, merging 1200W of power, a spacious 1.6 cu ft cavity, and smart sensor technology into a single, elegantly designed package that earns its title as the best overall microwave. Its pre-programmed sensor menus automatically adjust cooking time and power based on moisture levels—ensuring your pizza comes out crispy, not rubbery, and your vegetables stay vibrant, not mushy. The 13.6” position-memory turntable rotates during cooking and resets to the same spot when done, making it safer and easier to remove hot dishes.

In real-life testing, the sensor reheat function consistently outperformed manual settings, preserving texture and moisture in leftovers overnight. The large interior fits a 13-inch pizza or 9×13 casserole with room to spare, and the multi-stage cooking feature allows complex sequences—like defrosting, then cooking, then warming—without manual intervention. Even at full power, operation remains relatively quiet, and the sound on/off function lets you disable beeps with a long press. The only minor flaw? The control panel’s protective film must be removed before first use—a step some may overlook.

Stacked against the BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11, this Toshiba offers far greater capacity, smarter cooking, and superior convenience for only slightly more money. It surpasses the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS in cavity size and turntable innovation, making it ideal for families, meal preppers, or anyone who cooks frequently. With its perfect balance of power, size, and intelligence, it delivers premium performance that justifies its spot at the top—setting a new benchmark for what a modern microwave should be.

The Toshiba EM131A5C-BS is a smart cooking powerhouse, built for users who want precision automation without sacrificing space or style. Its Smart Sensor Technology detects humidity levels in real time, automatically adjusting cook time and power to prevent overcooking—a game-changer for reheating leftovers or preparing frozen meals. With 1000W output and 12 auto menus, including sensor reheat and defrost by weight, it blends intelligent cooking with everyday convenience, all within a 1.2 cu ft cavity that fits most dinner plates. The mute function and eco mode further enhance usability, reducing noise and standby power for eco-conscious homes.

During testing, the sensor reheat function consistently delivered restaurant-quality results: pasta stayed saucy, rice reheated without drying, and chicken retained moisture. The easy-clean interior wipes down effortlessly, and the +30 seconds button allows quick time boosts without menu diving. However, the 12.4” turntable lacks position memory, meaning it stops wherever it lands—slightly less convenient than models with reset positioning. Also, while the six presets cover essentials, they’re fewer than some competitors, and the manual peel-off keypad film can be easily missed.

Compared to the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM, this Toshiba offers twice the capacity and far more advanced tech, making it a smarter long-term investment. Against the Chefman 0.9 cu ft model, it provides larger size and sensor intelligence at a moderate price increase. It’s best suited for professionals, couples, or small families who value hands-free accuracy and energy efficiency. With its best-in-class smart cooking features and thoughtful design, it offers exceptional value for those who cook smarter, not harder.

The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM is the ultimate minimalist microwave, designed for tight spaces and tight budgets without cutting corners on essential features. At just 0.7 cu ft and 700W, it’s ideal for dorm rooms, RVs, or single-person kitchens where compact size and low cost are non-negotiable. Yet it still delivers one-touch express cooking, defrost by weight or time, and six auto-cook functions for popcorn, pizza, and beverages—making it surprisingly capable for its size. The sound on/off button and 50% reduced standby power in ECO mode add thoughtful touches for quiet, energy-efficient use.

In practice, it handles small meals and reheating tasks reliably, though it struggles with larger or denser foods due to limited wattage and cavity size. The interior light helps monitor progress, and the two-step child lock meets modern safety standards, preventing accidental starts. However, the lack of a removable turntable makes cleaning more difficult, and the basic control layout lacks a clock display on some models—a frustrating omission. Still, for its price, it offers remarkable functionality in a tiny footprint.

When compared to the Galanz 0.7 cu ft model, the COMFEE’ wins on value and eco-friendliness, offering mute function and ECO mode where Galanz doesn’t. It’s not for families or heavy cooks, but for students, bachelors, or secondary kitchens, it’s a no-brainer budget pick. With its affordable price, quiet operation, and essential automation, it proves that small microwaves can still deliver big convenience—making it the smartest entry-level option for those who want less clutter, not less capability.

The Toshiba ML2-EC10SA(BS) is a kitchen revolution in a microwave-sized box, combining microwave speed with air fryer crispness, convection baking, broiling, and odor removal in an 8-in-1 powerhouse that redefines countertop cooking. With 1000W microwave power and a 12.4” position-memory turntable, it handles everything from reheating leftovers to air-frying frozen fries with remarkable crispness and 75% less fat—all without preheating or deep frying. The combi mode lets you microwave and air fry in sequence, drastically cutting meal prep time.

Real-world testing revealed impressive versatility: crispy wings, golden-brown casseroles, and even roasted chicken emerged with professional-quality results. The compact 1.0 cu ft cavity fits a 12-inch pizza or whole chicken, and the easy-turn knobs make mode switching intuitive. However, the learning curve is steeper than a standard microwave, and the interior requires frequent cleaning due to grease splatter during air frying. Also, while it’s powerful, it’s not as fast as a dedicated microwave for simple reheating tasks.

Against the Toshiba ML-EM45P(BS), it trades some cavity space for unmatched functionality, making it ideal for those who want oven-like results without the oven footprint. For small kitchens, tiny homes, or users tired of cluttered appliances, this combo unit replaces multiple gadgets with one smart solution. With its best-in-class multi-function design and healthy cooking options, it offers unparalleled value for culinary adventurers who want restaurant-quality meals at home, fast and easy.