A compact microwave is a smaller-sized microwave oven designed for those with limited kitchen space or specific needs. It offers the convenience of a microwave in a more compact and space-saving form factor.
These microwaves typically have a smaller interior capacity, ranging from 0.5 to 1.0 cubic feet, making them suitable for individuals or small households. Despite their smaller size, compact microwaves still provide essential cooking functions such as heating, defrosting, and cooking various food items. They often come with preset cooking modes, adjustable power levels, and intuitive controls.
Compact microwaves are ideal for dorm rooms, apartments, RVs, and offices with premium space. They offer a practical quick and easy meal preparation solution without sacrificing valuable counter space.
7 Best Compact Microwaves
When selecting the best compact microwave, consider size, power, features, and customer reviews. Look for models that fit your available space and offer sufficient power for your cooking needs.
Prioritize compact microwaves with essential features like preset cooking functions, timer settings, and easy-to-use controls. It’s also important to read customer reviews to gauge reliability and performance.
Through comprehensive research, including analyzing expert opinions, comparing specifications, and evaluating user experiences, I have identified the top compact microwaves that combine space-saving design with efficient functionality, ensuring a reliable and convenient cooking experience for smaller kitchens or limited spaces.
1. TOSHIBA EM925A5A-BS Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu Ft
The Toshiba EM925A5A-BS Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact powerhouse with a stylish black stainless steel design that fits perfectly in any kitchen.
Despite its small footprint, it offers a spacious 0.9 cu ft capacity and a 10.6-inch removable turntable that can accommodate a 10-inch pizza. It delivers efficient and precise cooking results with 900 watts of power and 10 power settings.
The microwave also has convenient features like 6 auto menus for popular foods, a defrost function, a one-touch start button, and a child safety lock. The power-saving eco mode and the option to mute the sound make it a versatile and user-friendly choice.
2. Commercial Chef CHM660 Counter Top Microwave, 0.6 Cubic Feet
The Commercial Chef CHM660 Counter Top Microwave is a compact and practical solution for small living spaces like dorm rooms and apartments. Its small and sleek design fits perfectly in kitchens with limited countertop space. The mechanical dials make it easy to operate, offering 6 cooking power levels and a timer for convenient cooking.
Whether you’re reheating leftovers, defrosting vegetables, or preparing frozen dinners, this microwave’s 600 watts of power, and 9.5″ glass turntable can handle the task. The removable turntable is dishwasher safe, ensuring easy cleaning. With a timer set for up to 30 minutes, this microwave offers versatility and simplicity in one package.
3. Nostalgia Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.7 Cu. Ft
The Nostalgia Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven is a delightful blend of style and functionality. With its vibrant orange color and retro accents, it adds a touch of fun and flair to any kitchen.
Despite its compact size, this microwave packs a punch with 700 watts of cooking power, ensuring quick and efficient cooking and reheating. The 12 pre-programmed cooking settings, delay timer, and express cooking feature offer convenience and versatility for optimal heating of various popular foods.
The LED digital display showcases a clear clock and cooking settings, while the rotating glass carousel promotes even cooking. With its user-friendly program dial, this microwave is a joy to operate. Its easy-to-clean interior and child lock feature make it a practical choice.
4. COMFEE’ Retro Small Microwave Oven With Compact Size 0.7 Cu Ft
The COMFEE’ Retro Small Microwave Oven combines adorable retro design with impressive functionality. It’s cute and compact green exterior is perfect for small kitchens in apartments, dorms, offices, or outdoor settings.
With 9 preset menus, you can easily cook popular microwave foods with a button, while the position memory turntable ensures easy and safe access to your food. The mute function allows you to enjoy your snacks without annoying beeps, and the child safety lock ensures the microwave is safe for households with children.
The COMFEE’ Retro Small Microwave Oven packs 700 Watts of power into a compact size, perfect for saving space. It easily fits on a 10-inch turntable, making it a convenient and powerful choice.
5. Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts, 0.7 cu ft
The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a convenient and powerful option for quick and easy meals. With 700 watts of output power and various settings, it offers press-and-go speed for busy individuals. The ten power levels and six one-touch options, including popcorn and pizza, allow customized cooking.
Its compact 0.7 cu ft size is perfect for apartments and dorms, offering full-sized cooking capabilities in limited spaces.
The microwave features an easy-to-clean interior and exterior, a clear LED display with a kitchen timer and clock, interior lighting, and a child safety lock for added convenience and security.
6. Breville Countertop Compact Wave Soft-Close Microwave Oven 0.9 Cubic Feet
The Breville Countertop Compact Wave Soft-Close Microwave Oven is a convenient and efficient for cooking, defrosting, and reheating meals. Its 25L capacity and compact footprint offer ample room for delicious dishes.
The one-touch auto buttons and food menu provide quick access to favorite settings, making cooking a breeze. The soft-close door reduces noise by 80%, while features like the child lock, mute button, and 30-second instant start add convenience and safety.
The defrost and reheat functions ensure food is gently thawed and reheated without drying or overcooking. With its sleek silver design, this microwave is both practical and stylish.
7. GE Countertop Microwave Oven | 0.7 Cubic Feet
The GE Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact powerhouse offering power and efficiency. With 700 watts of cooking power and a 0.7 cu. ft. capacity, it delivers effective results while saving valuable kitchen space.
The glass turntable ensures even cooking by rotating the food. This freestanding microwave is a breeze, easily fitting on a countertop or open shelf. The one-touch operation with Instant On express cooking controls and multiple cooking modes makes it convenient.
The easy auto or manual defrost options allow for precise thawing. With its sleek stainless steel and black glass design, this microwave adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen.
Buying Guide: Features To Consider Before Buying A Compact Microwave
Size And Capacity
Consider the available space in your kitchen and choose a compact microwave with dimensions that fit your countertop. Ensure the capacity is sufficient, typically 0.5 to 0.9 cubic feet.
Power And Wattage
Check the microwave’s wattage to ensure it provides enough power for efficient cooking. Higher wattage generally means faster cooking times.
Cooking Features
Look for essential cooking features like preset menus, defrost options, multi-stage cooking, and adjustable power levels. These features enhance versatility and convenience in preparing different types of food.
Controls And User-Friendliness
Consider the control panel layout and ease of use. User-friendly features like one-touch buttons, intuitive controls, and a clear display make operating the microwave hassle-free.
Turntable And Interior Space
A rotating turntable ensures even cooking by allowing heat distribution. Check the turntable’s size and ensure it can accommodate your preferred cookware.
Safety Features
Look for features like a child lock to prevent accidental operation by children and safety mechanisms that protect against overheating and excessive use.
Design And Aesthetics
Consider the overall design and color options to match your kitchen decor. Compact microwaves come in various styles, from modern stainless steel to retro-inspired designs.
Price And Warranty
Set a budget and compare prices, considering the features and quality offered. Additionally, check the warranty terms to ensure proper coverage and support in case of any issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Ideal Size For A Compact Microwave?
A compact microwave typically ranges from 0.5 to 0.9 cubic feet, balancing space-saving design and sufficient cooking capacity.
Can A Compact Microwave Handle Regular-Sized Dinner Plates?
Yes, most compact microwaves can accommodate regular-sized dinner plates, but checking the interior dimensions is recommended to ensure a proper fit.
How Many Power Levels Should A Compact Microwave Have?
It’s beneficial to choose a compact microwave with multiple power levels, ideally ranging from 5 to 10, to adjust the cooking intensity for different types of food.
What Is The Recommended Wattage For A Compact Microwave?
For efficient cooking, a compact microwave should have a wattage of at least 700 to 900 watts, which ensures faster cooking times and better results.
Are Preset Cooking Functions Important In A Compact Microwave?
Preset cooking functions provide convenience by offering pre-programmed settings for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, and beverages, simplifying the cooking process.
Is A Turntable Necessary In A Compact Microwave?
A turntable is beneficial as it helps distribute heat evenly, ensuring uniform cooking. Look for a compact microwave with a removable and dishwasher-safe turntable for easy cleaning.
What Safety Features Should I Look For In A Compact Microwave?
Important safety features include a child lock to prevent accidental use, overheating protection, and alerts for open doors or excessive use.
Are There Any Additional Features To Consider In A Compact Microwave?
Additional features are a digital display with easy-to-read controls, a timer or clock function, interior lighting, and easy-to-clean surfaces for convenience and usability.
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