7 Best Small Microwaves of 2025

This compact powerhouse redefines what small-space cooking can achieve. With 700 watts of cooking power and a 9.6-inch turntable, it delivers surprisingly even heating for its size—perfect for students or studio dwellers who need fast, reliable meals without cluttering their counters. The six one-touch presets, including popcorn and pizza, eliminate guesswork, while the child lock and LED lighting add practical safety and visibility that budget models often overlook.

In real-world use, this microwave handles everyday tasks like reheating leftovers or steaming veggies with commendable consistency. Though the 0.7 cu ft cavity limits plate size—larger dinner plates may overhang slightly—it’s more than capable for solo eaters or couples. The manual defrost by time or weight works well for small portions, though it lacks advanced sensors found in pricier units. On high heat, liquids boil in under two minutes, and the glass turntable rotates smoothly, minimizing cold spots.

Compared to the COMFEE’ AM720C2RA-G, this model matches it in capacity and wattage but falls short on preset variety and style flair. However, it stands out as the most affordable entry point into functional, no-frills microwave cooking. Ideal for dorms, tiny kitchens, or as a backup unit, it balances performance and price better than most in its class. For those prioritizing budget over bells and whistles, this microwave is a quietly impressive workhorse.

Step into smarter small-space cooking with the Chefman 0.9 cu ft microwave—a game-changer for efficiency and control. Boasting 900 watts of power and a generous 0.9 cubic foot cavity, it bridges the gap between compact design and real-world usability, making it ideal for small families or frequent meal preppers. What truly sets it apart is the mute button and Eco Mode, giving users full command over noise and energy use—features rarely seen at this price or size.

During testing, the six smart presets consistently delivered well-cooked results, from crispy pizza to fluffy reheated rice. The 10 power levels allow for precision tasks like softening butter or simmering sauces without scorching. Its memory function lets you save favorite settings—say, 90 seconds at 70% power for oatmeal—so every use feels personalized. Even with dense foods like frozen burritos, the internal temperature evens out quickly thanks to the smooth-turning glass plate.

When stacked against the Farberware 1.1 cu ft model, the Chefman sacrifices a bit of space but gains thoughtful features like silent operation and energy-saving mode, making it better suited for bedrooms, offices, or shared living spaces. It’s not the largest, but it’s one of the most user-intuitive compact microwaves we’ve tested. For those who value quiet, customizable cooking with modern convenience, this model hits a rare sweet spot between function and finesse.

Meet the small-family champion: a microwave that packs 1000 watts of power into a spacious 1.1 cu ft interior, offering room enough for 10-inch plates and family-sized containers. With six auto-cook presets and multi-stage cooking, it simplifies daily meals without demanding constant supervision—perfect for parents juggling dinner prep and homework help. The add-30-seconds button and express start controls make it a joy for quick reheat jobs, turning chaos into calm in busy households.

Real-world performance shows why this model excels in consistency. Whether you’re defrosting ground beef by weight or reheating a full plate of lasagna, the high wattage ensures rapid, even heating with minimal stirring. The LED display is bright and legible, and the interior light makes monitoring food effortless—a small touch that enhances usability. That said, it lacks sensor tech or mute options, so beeping after cycles can be intrusive in quiet homes.

Compared to the Toshiba EM131A5C-SS, it offers similar power but misses out on smart humidity sensing and ECO mode, making it less efficient over time. Still, for families needing maximum cooking space and straightforward controls, this Farberware delivers where it counts. It’s the kind of microwave that becomes a kitchen anchor—reliable, roomy, and built for daily grind—without requiring a pro-level budget.

Turn heads and warm meals with the COMFEE’ retro microwave—a style-forward appliance that doesn’t compromise on substance. Its vintage-inspired green finish and rounded edges bring character to any countertop, making it a standout in minimalist or eclectic kitchens alike. Behind the charm lies 700 watts of reliable power, a position-memory turntable that resumes rotation from where it stopped, and nine preset menus—more than most compact models—giving you greater culinary flexibility in a tiny footprint.

In practice, the preset accuracy is impressive: popcorn pops evenly, and frozen veggies steam perfectly without waterlogging. The push-button door release feels satisfying and smooth, while the large digital display makes timing adjustments effortless. Though the 0.7 cu ft cavity restricts larger dishes, it’s perfectly suited for mugs, bowls, and standard dinner plates. One minor flaw? The lack of Eco Mode means it draws more standby power than competitors like its pearl-white sibling.

Pitted against the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM, this model trades energy efficiency for bold aesthetics and extra presets, making it ideal for renters or design lovers who want personality with performance. It’s not the quietest or most efficient, but for those who believe appliances should express individuality as much as function, this retro gem delivers. If style and smart presets matter as much as speed, this microwave is a standout pick.

Whisper-quiet and energy-smart, the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM is the ultimate choice for noise-sensitive environments. With its mute function and 50% reduced standby power via ECO Mode, it’s engineered for bedrooms, offices, or shared apartments where beeps and energy bills matter. The 700-watt output may seem modest, but paired with intuitive one-touch cooking and two defrost modes, it handles daily tasks with quiet confidence.

Testing revealed exceptional performance for a compact unit: reheating coffee without scalding, defrosting chicken evenly by weight, and even baking a single-serving mug cake with consistent results. The two-step child lock adds peace of mind for homes with toddlers, and the simple control layout makes it accessible for all ages. While the interior size limits larger dishes, the removable turntable simplifies cleaning and maintenance.

Compared to the basic 700W budget model (B0F65296JL), this COMFEE’ offers superior noise control and energy savings at a slightly higher cost. It doesn’t boast high wattage or large capacity, but for those who prioritize silent operation and eco-friendliness, it’s unmatched. If your ideal microwave works hard without making a sound—literally—this pearl-white performer is the clear winner.

Sleek, compact, and brilliantly space-efficient, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is engineered for maximum impact in minimal space. Its stainless steel finish and slim profile blend seamlessly into modern kitchens, while the push-button door release adds a touch of sophistication often missing in budget models. With 700 watts of power and a 10-inch turntable, it delivers reliable, even heating for small meals—making it a top contender for dorms, RVs, or bachelor pads.

In daily use, the one-touch presets for popcorn, pizza, and beverages perform reliably, and the 30-second express cook is perfect for quick warm-ups. The interior light and large LED display enhance visibility, and the child safety lock ensures safety without complicating operation. While it shares specs with other 0.7 cu ft models, its clean lines and durable build give it an edge in aesthetics and longevity.

Versus the similarly sized COMFEE’ green retro model, this BLACK+DECKER trades color and extra presets for a more professional, understated look. It’s not flashy, but it’s exceptionally functional and space-savvy. For those who want a no-nonsense, stylishly compact microwave that fits effortlessly into tight spaces, this model is a masterclass in smart design. It proves that small doesn’t mean simple—just thoughtfully scaled.

This is the undisputed king of smart compact cooking: the Toshiba EM131A5C-SS combines 1000 watts of power, a spacious 1.2 cu ft cavity, and Smart Sensor Technology that automatically adjusts cooking time based on food humidity—eliminating guesswork and preventing overcooking. With 12 auto menus and a mute function, it’s as intelligent as it is powerful, making it the most complete package for tech-savvy users who demand precision and convenience.

In real-world testing, the sensor reheat function perfectly revived yesterday’s pasta without drying it out, and the large 12.4-inch turntable accommodated full dinner plates with room to spare. The ECO Mode slashes standby power, and the mute button ensures silent operation—ideal for late-night snacks without disturbing others. Even dense foods like frozen entrées cooked evenly, thanks to the combination of high wattage and smart sensing.

When compared to the Farberware 1.1 cu ft model, this Toshiba offers larger capacity, smarter cooking, and better energy efficiency, justifying its position as the best overall pick. It’s pricier than entry-level units, but the advanced features and superior performance make it worth every penny. For those who want the most capable, future-ready microwave in a compact footprint, this Toshiba isn’t just an appliance—it’s a kitchen upgrade.