When you’re working with a small kitchen, every inch counts. A bulky microwave can overwhelm counter space, but a compact 0.7 to 0.8 cu. ft. model fits neatly on a countertop or shelf. We compared five popular options to find which ones deliver reliable heating, intuitive controls, and thoughtful extras. Our team evaluated performance, ease of use, and features that matter in tight spaces-like sound on/off options and eco modes. We looked for consistent cooking, clear button layouts, and durable builds. Here are our picks for the best microwaves for small kitchens in 2026.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button - Black
We picked the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels because it offers the most versatile preset options and a compact footprint that fits almost anywhere. Its six auto-cook menus simplify everyday meals, and the 10 power levels give you fine control.
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 700W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally. Just pull upwards on the top edge of the handle to open the microwave.
COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7 Cu Ft/700W, Pearl White
We selected the COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Ea as the best value for its combination of useful extras like sound on/off and eco mode at an affordable price. It includes 11 preset menus, making it highly functional for its size.
- Two-Step Child Lock Feature: For extra protection and to prevent misuse, all microwave oven manufacturers are asked to follow new safety standard and add a 2-step child lock function
- Mute Function: Turn off all the microwave beeps by pressing the sound on/off button for 3 seconds, which will bring you quieter cooking time
- Easy one-touch express cooking function with 1-6 minutes and +30 seconds functions, and two defrost settings (by weight or by time). With easy auto-cook functions: Popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen veggie, beverage, reheat
- Energy saving Eco mode: Minimize 50% standby power by turning on ECO mode
Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven - 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - Stainless
We chose the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven - 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Set as our runner-up because it provides reliable performance with 6 one-touch presets and a straightforward control panel. Its stainless steel interior is easy to clean.
- CONVENIENT MICROWAVE: Prepare quick and easy meals in a snap with our powerful microwave. It packs 700 of output power and features a range of settings for press-and-go speed.
- POWERFUL SETTINGS: This microwave has ten power levels with multi-stage cooking. You can fully customize your cooking with six one-touch options, including popcorn, potato, and pizza. Defrost by weight or by time settings to make quick work of any task.
- PERFECT SIZE: Measuring 0.7 cu ft, this microwave is the ideal small-space solution that offers full-sized cooking in a compact space. It features an easy-to-clean interior and exterior and is perfect for the home or office.
- ALL YOU NEED: This microwave has a clear LED display with a kitchen timer and clock that lets you easily keep track of time. Easy-to-view interior lighting lets you keep an eye on your dish, and a child safety lock adds additional security.
COMFEE' EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black
We picked the COMFEE' EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and E as our best premium for its sleek black finish and additional features like a mute function and eco mode. It offers 11 presets and a child lock, making it both stylish and practical.
- Two-step Child Lock Feature: For extra protection and prevent misuse, all microwave oven manufacturers are asked to follow the new safety standard and add this 2-step child lock function
- Mute Function: Turn off all the microwave beeps by pressing the sound on/off button for 3 seconds, for a quiet cooking experience
- Easy one-touch express cooking function with 1-6 minutes and +30 seconds functions, and two defrost settings (by weight or by time). With easy auto-cook functions: Popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen veggie, beverage, reheat
- Energy Saving Eco Mode: Minimizes 50% standby power by using ECO mode
FRIGIDAIRE EMW733BLACKAMZ 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black
We selected the FRIGIDAIRE EMW733BLACKAMZ 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black as the best budget option because it covers all essentials-700 watts, 10 power levels, and a compact design-at a lower price point. It lacks presets but is simple and reliable.
- DIGITAL PANEL: Our microwave features a Digital Control Panel that makes it really easy to use and provides choices for express cooking, altering the power level, postponing the start, setting the time, and stop/cancel features.
- CONVENIENT: Utilize the two different defrost timers to have full control over how you want your food to be warmed. Cook your personalized meals and snacks in stages.
- SAFE: Keep your little ones safe by using the Child Safety Lock that prevents inadvertent usage or access. The large display provides a clear viewing of your meals for you to keep an eye on them to make sure it cooks perfectly.
- DIFFERENT SETTINGS: Intuitive cooking settings remove the complexity from daily cooking. There are six different auto cooking settings to choose from (popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen dinner, reheat, beverage).
Key buying factors
Measure your counter space, including depth and height. A 0.7 cu. ft. model is ideal for tight spots, but check external dimensions to ensure room for ventilation.
700 watts is standard for compact microwaves. It reheats and cooks evenly for most tasks, but may take slightly longer than higher-wattage units.
Look for intuitive dials or tactile buttons. Digital displays with clear labels reduce guesswork. Sound on/off options are a bonus for quiet operation.
Auto-cook menus for popcorn, pizza, potatoes, etc., simplify one-touch cooking. More presets mean less manual time setting.
Eco mode saves standby energy. Child lock adds safety. Turntable on/off can accommodate larger plates. These extras enhance usability.
Stainless steel interiors resist staining. Check warranty length-longer warranties indicate manufacturer confidence.
Types explained
Simple, no-frills microwave with essential functions: timer, power levels, and a turntable. Ideal for basic reheating and defrosting.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who need a reliable backup or dorm use.Includes presets, eco mode, sound on/off, and sometimes a child lock. Offers more flexibility without added bulk.
Best for: Home cooks who want convenience and energy savings in a small package.Emphasizes aesthetics with black or stainless finishes, sleek buttons, and minimal footprint. Performance meets design.
Best for: Those who prioritize kitchen decor and want the microwave to blend in.Care & usage tips
Wipe interior after each use with a damp cloth to prevent food splatter buildup. Use mild soap; avoid abrasive sponges.
Ensure at least a few inches of clearance around the microwave for airflow. Blocked vents can cause overheating.
If you use the steam function, descale periodically with a vinegar-water solution. For general use, a weekly wipe-down suffices.
In our evaluation, we found that the best compact microwaves balance small footprints with thoughtful features like sound on/off and eco modes, which make a big difference in daily use.
We recommend measuring your counter depth before buying-many compact microwaves are deeper than expected, which can overhang narrow counters.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a compact microwave for cooking raw food?+
Yes, but 700 watts may require longer cook times than full-size microwaves. Most compact models can cook vegetables, fish, and simple meals effectively.
What does ECO mode do?+
ECO mode reduces standby power consumption by disabling the clock display and some circuits when not in use, saving energy.
How do I disable the beep on my microwave?+
Many models have a sound on/off button. Check the manual; on some, holding the 'Sound' or 'Stop' button for a few seconds toggles sound off.
Are compact microwaves good for dorm rooms?+
Absolutely. They fit on small desks or shelves, are lightweight, and usually meet dorm wattage restrictions. Check with your dorm for any size limitations.
Do all compact microwaves have a turntable?+
Most do. Some allow you to turn the turntable off for manual rotation with larger dishes. Always confirm in the specs if this matters to you.