Are you looking for the best compact microwave for your smaller kitchen? Compact microwaves are ideal for apartments and any space where you want to save on countertop space. Despite their smaller size, they offer great cooking power and often come with convenient features like pre-set cooking modes and smart home technology.
While compact microwaves are more affordable than larger microwaves, they don't lack in cooking performance. When choosing a compact microwave, it's important to consider the interior space, especially if you need to cook for more than one person.
Keep reading for our pick of the best compact microwaves. For more choices, head to our guide to the best microwaves and best over-the-range microwaves.
The quick list
The best compact microwave overall
The LG 0.9 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave offers sensor cooking, multiple modes, and efficiency, ensuring even heating and perfect results for a variety of foods.
The best compact microwave on a budget
The Toshiba EM925A5A-BS microwave impresses with efficient heating, consistent performance, user-friendly controls, and a suitable size for limited counter space. It is great for everyday use.
The best premium compact microwave
The Toshiba Countertop Microwave offers multifunctional cooking with exceptional heating efficiency, time consistency, and reliable magnetron functionality in a space-saving design.
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The best mid-size microwave
The Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines microwave, air fryer, and convection oven functions. It offers efficient heating, consistent cooking, and intuitive controls.
The best value compact microwave
The Panasonic NN-SD372 microwave impresses with its efficient 950-watt power and inverter technology. Unique controls take time to master, but they offer versatile functionality in a compact design.
The best compact microwave for narrow countertops
The Cuisinart CMW-70 Microwave Oven offers efficient 700-watt heating, useful auto-cook functions, a slightly cumbersome control panel, consistent heating, and compact size.
The best compact microwave for shallow countertops
The GE JES1072SHSS microwave is suitable for basic reheating tasks but struggles with consistent heating and lacks advanced features and cooking efficiency.
Read more below
The best compact microwaves we recommend in 2025
Why you can trust Top Ten Reviews Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
Our team has carefully reviewed the products in our buyer's guides. We aim to offer comprehensive and unbiased rankings based on our hands-on testing and expert research. Our evaluations take into account top-rated brands and essential features to help you make informed purchasing decisions at the best value. We rigorously test compact microwaves for heating efficiency, control panel functionality, and size to provide accurate and reliable reviews.
The best compact microwave overall
In addition to its style and functionality, the LG 0.9 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave's advanced sensor cooking technology ensures even heating without guesswork, and its multiple cooking modes make it easy to cook fast and efficiently.
Space Considerations: The LG MSER0990S 0.9 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave is relatively large for a compact countertop model, so it may be larger than you expect for a smaller kitchen. However, its design will look great if positioned correctly, blending functionality and style.
Sensor Cooking: The LG MSER0990S features advanced sensor cooking technology, using humidity-sensing technology to determine when food is heated correctly, eliminating guesswork. The pre-programmed settings work for all kinds of food; you will get consistent temperatures with no hot or cold spots. It's also easy to heat leftovers like pizza or chili, and its user-friendly design and multi-functional buttons add to its efficiency and convenience.
Cooking Modes: The microwave has different modes to adjust cooking time and power based on food. Customized settings simplify heating things like popcorn or pizza. Although the multi-function buttons may seem overwhelming at first, they offer versatility with features like auto-reheat once you learn them.
Cooking Efficiency: The LG MSER0990S combines sensor technology and powerful heating for fast, even meal prep. Food was reheated evenly during testing without hot and cold spots, and the smart popcorn button cooked corn in just over two minutes with minimal unpopped kernels. It makes a slight buzzing sound, but this doesn't significantly impact.
Read more: LG MSER0990S 0.9 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave review
The LG MSER0990S 0.9 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave is a large yet precise countertop microwave that offers consistent heating and a quality design. It combines durability with a sleek stainless steel design and its sensor cook options provide even heating, enhancing convenience. However, it does occupy a significant amount of counter space, and mastering the multi-function buttons may take some time.
| Attribute | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | The small amount of setup required was fairly simple | 9/10 |
| Design | Large and bulky but with some intuitive features | 8/10 |
| Performance | Effective at sensing and cooking thoroughly and evenly. | 7/10 |
| Maintenance | Use a damp cloth for simple messes. | 9/10 |
| Value | Fair price without availability issues | 8/10 |
The best compact microwave on a budget
The Toshiba EM925A5A-BS microwave offers impressive heating efficiency and time consistency despite its compact size and 900-watt power. Although it lacks a sensor reheat button, the control panel is easy to use and has handy presets. The magnetron microwave is excellent for everyday use and is small enough to fit on a counter.
Space Considerations: Toshiba's EM925A5A-BS microwave is small and perfect for kitchens with limited counter space. Its 0.9 cubic foot capacity can hold standard dinner plates and large popcorn bags, and Angie said this design maximizes kitchen functionality without sacrificing essential appliances. Its roomy interior can comfortably handle most cooking needs, so its sleek style blends right in whether you're in a traditional or modern kitchen.
Sensor Cooking: If you're used to models that automatically adjust cooking times, you might be disappointed by the Toshiba EM925A5A-BS's lack of a sensor reheat button. Nevertheless, it offers convenient presets like popcorn and potatoes, so it's easy to use. Even though Angie didn't like the lack of sensor cooking, she appreciated the intuitive control panel, and if you can manage presets and manual settings, the Toshiba EM925A5A-BS meets everyday cooking needs well.
Cooking Modes: The intuitive control panel allows you to easily navigate through handy presets for popcorn, potatoes, frozen veggies, and more, so you don't have to guess when it's done. Angie found these options helpful for confidently reheating, defrosting, and cooking food.
Cooking Efficiency: At 900 watts, the Toshiba EM925A5A-BS microwave cooks food evenly and quickly. Angie liked how consistently it heated frozen dinners and soup. It's adequate for popping popcorn, but it leaves many unpopped kernels behind. This microwave is great for quick meal prep without compromising quality, and it's suitable for everyday use even though larger microwaves have more power.
Read more: Toshiba EM925A5A-BS review
"Despite its compact size, the Toshiba EM925A5A-BS microwave heats up fast and consistently. The control panel is easy to use, but there's no sensor reheat button. It's a nice microwave for everyday use, and it fits nicely on a small countertop."
| Attribute | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | straightforward to set up without complex installation requirements; fits nicely on small countertops | 8/10 |
| Design | compact and practical design; simple control panel with basic functionality | 7/10 |
| Performance | delivers reliable and consistent performance; even heating; not the most powerful; various presets and power levels | 8/10 |
| Maintenance | relatively easy to maintain; longer warranty would be desirable | 8/10 |
| Value | good value for its price point; no advanced features like moisture sensors; nice assortment of presets and power levels | 8/10 |
The best premium compact microwave
Due to its multifunctional capabilities and sensor technology, Toshiba's Countertop Microwave offers excellent heating efficiency and time consistency. Despite its substantial capabilities, it's a space-saving option for multifunctional cooking. Its thoughtfully designed control panel and magnetron functionality deliver consistent results across several cooking modes.
Space Considerations: The Toshiba Countertop Microwave is space-efficient, so it can be used in small kitchens. It measures 11.8 x 20 x 16.3 inches but can handle larger dishes like baking trays and air fryers. Despite taking up a little more space than other microwaves on this list, its multifunctionality makes it an excellent investment.
Sensor Cooking: The Toshiba countertop microwave has an excellent sensor cooking feature that automatically adjusts cooking times and power levels based on the food type. Terri found that this eliminated guesswork and resulted in more consistent results. With sensor technology, you don't have to worry about overcooking or undercooking while performing other kitchen tasks.
Cooking Modes: The Toshiba microwave has broil, bake, air fry, and HomeFry cooking modes. It's easy to use and pre-programmed for quick access, and Terri noticed that air-frying made tender meatballs while convection baked gooey, crispy cookies.
Cooking Efficiency: The sensor cooking feature adjusts power levels based on food type, which means consistent heating and reduced cooking times. It worked for Terri, with her popcorn popping evenly, and the cookies were crunchy and gooey. Convection and air fry settings also produced impressive results.
Read more: Toshiba ML2-TC10SAIT review
"Yes, the Toshiba ML2-TC10SAIT can microwave, but it also does air frying, broiling, and baking. Its multifunctional capabilities and sensor technology ensure consistent cooking results, and I love how space-saving it is despite its substantial capabilities. The heating works reliably, and the control panel is easy to use. I highly recommend it."
| Attribute | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | straightforward; effective packaging and a comprehensive set of included accessories | 8/10 |
| Design | combines a compact design with an attractive finish and an intuitive control panel | 8/10 |
| Performance | excels in performance due to its multifunctionality, effective cooking results, and user-friendly features; minor issues related to grease and the learning curve for accessory use | 9/10 |
| Value | offers good value; initial price point may deter some buyers | 7/10 |
The best mid-size microwave
The Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 is a versatile and efficient kitchen appliance that combines microwave, air fryer, and convection oven functions. Despite some limitations, its heating efficiency, time consistency, control panel design, magnetron functionality, and suitable size make it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
Space Considerations: The Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 is space-saving and functional, combining three appliances. Although it looks bulky in smaller kitchens, it's big enough to fit baking trays and air fryer baskets. To maximize your kitchen's potential, you must consider its dimensions, as the single cooking surface limits the number of dishes you can prepare at once.
Sensor Cooking: The Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 has advanced sensor cooking technology, so there's no risk of overcooking. Thanks to this technology, Marah always got consistent results, and using the appliance allows you to focus on meal preparation while it does its thing. Even though preset options like popcorn and pizza didn't require constant supervision, they turned out great.
Cooking Modes: The Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 offers many cooking options, including a microwave, air fryer, and convection oven. Thanks to an intuitive control panel, switching between these modes is easy. Marah customized her cooking experience using the air fryer setting or microwave leftovers.
Cooking Efficiency: The Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 combines speed and efficiency to cook efficiently. Marah was impressed with how quickly the microwave heated food, delivering hot, evenly cooked results. Air frying and convection help you make crisp, well-browned food without constant monitoring and long cooking times. Using sensor technology, the appliance adjusts cooking times based on the dish. As a result, Marah's cooking efficiency saves valuable time in a busy kitchen and reduces energy costs.
Read more: Breville BMO870BSS1BUC1 Combi Wave review
"This Breville Combi Wave is a microwave, air fryer, and convection oven all in one. Despite its size, it's a great addition to any kitchen because of its well-designed control panel and reliable magnetron. Its sleek design and multifunctionality make it worth its space."
The best value compact microwave
The Panasonic NN-SD372 microwave has a unique look and performed well in our tests. Its old-school controls and stainless steel finish make it look cool, even if it is a little hard to use.
Space Considerations: Panasonic's NN-SD372SR is space-efficient. Its interior capacity of 0.8 cubic feet accommodates standard dinner plates and bowls and balances compactness and functionality. Its stainless steel exterior gives any countertop a modern look without overwhelming it. However, because the microwave is limited in height, taller items, like 7-inch glasses, might need to be moved or repositioned.
Sensor Cooking: While there aren't many sensor options, they work well by automatically adjusting cooking times based on the food's moisture. This is great for reheating leftovers or steaming vegetables. However, some users may find the unconventional control panel confusing, so familiarizing yourself with the sensor settings may take some time.
Cooking Modes: Besides Turbo Inverter Defrost and Keep Warm, the microwave has Inverter Defrost, which evenly defrosts meats and other frozen food. Although the auto-cook feature is limited, the suggested cooking times located inside the door serve as helpful guidelines, especially for novice users. The Quick Minute feature also lets you adjust cooking time in a snap.
Cooking Efficiency: The microwave consistently delivered stable temperatures during testing. With Keep Warm, food stays at the right temperature without further cooking during busy dinner times. Some dishes may require experimentation to figure out the right cooking time, especially without preset buttons.
Read more: Panasonic NN-SD372SR review
"Panasonic's NN-SD372SR microwave is a great choice if you're looking for a microwave that heats efficiently and consistently. I'm really impressed with it. It cooks food evenly, and it's got 950 watts and inverter technology. It's compact but spacious, perfect for small kitchens. Overall, it's a great addition to any kitchen!"
| Attribute | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | relatively straightforward, but the control panel can be tricky to master | 7/10 |
| Design | attractive, featuring a stainless steel finish; unique control panel design | 8/10 |
| Performance | impressive, particularly due to its inverter technology; excelled in cooking tests | 9/10 |
| Maintenance | manageable, as the stainless steel exterior can be easily wiped down | 8/10 |
| Value | good value for its price, especially considering its 950 watts of power and inverter technology; performance in cooking tests justifies its cost | 8/10 |
The best compact microwave for narrow countertops
The Cuisinart CMW-70 Microwave Oven offers efficient heating with its 700-watt power and even cooking for a compact model. It features useful auto-cook functions, though adjusting cooking times may be necessary. The control panel layout is slightly cumbersome, but the magnetron function delivers consistent heating. Its compact size makes it ideal for smaller spaces.
Space Considerations: This microwave is small enough for individuals or couples to heat single servings without the bulk of a larger appliance. Its sleek black finish and stainless steel accents make it a stylish addition to any kitchen decor. There's enough space inside for standard plates and bowls, but larger dishes can be challenging.
Sensor Cooking: While the Cuisinart CMW-70 offers a variety of auto-cook functions, it lacks the advanced sensor cooking technology found in some contemporary microwaves. There are preprogrammed settings for things like popcorn and frozen vegetables, but you must adjust them yourself. During testing, the microwave managed to heat food efficiently, but users might have to tweak occasionally to prevent overcooking. Those who prefer straightforward cooking can use the existing user-friendly auto-cook functions, which cater to basic needs.
Cooking Modes: The auto-cook settings allow you to quickly cook pizza, vegetables, and baked goods. However, some foods, like potatoes, take a little longer to prepare because of the modes. When baking, the Soften/Melt setting makes it easy to melt chocolate and soften butter. While the microwave's control panel is clunky, with preprogrammed touchpads, users can easily navigate through modes once they get used to it.
Cooking Efficiency: In testing, the 700-watt Cuisinart CMW-70 Microwave oven consistently heated food evenly. Despite its lower wattage, Alex said it cooked meals thoroughly. Although auto-cook functions can cook many dishes well, you have to experiment with timings to avoid overcooking specific dishes like popcorn. Food thaws evenly thanks to the Inverter Turbo Defrost feature, which prevents cold spots and uneven cooking despite its low wattage.
Read more: Cuisinart CMW-70 review
"Despite having to adjust cooking times sometimes, the Cuisinart Microwave Oven delivered consistent heating thanks to its 700-watt heating and auto-cook features. The control panel layout was a bit cumbersome, but the compact size made it perfect for my small kitchen. It's only 700 watts, so you'll sacrifice power, but it still heats and cooks as you'd expect. With eight auto-cook functions and extra features like two-step cooking and memory, you can customize your cooking time or make it a simple process."
| Attribute | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | compact size and lightweight design; simple to get started without needing extensive instructions | 8/10 |
| Design | sleek stainless steel finish; takes up minimal counter space | 8/10 |
| Performance | less powerful than many competitors; still performs well for basic tasks like reheating, defrosting, and cooking smaller portions | 7/10 |
| Maintenance | easy to maintain, thanks to its stainless steel exterior | 9/10 |
| Value | offers decent value for those prioritizing space-saving and simplicity over power and advanced features | 7/10 |
The best compact microwave for shallow countertops
The GE JES1072SHSS microwave is a compact and stylish option for basic reheating tasks. While it effectively reheats dishes, it struggles with consistent heating for more complex cooking. Its straightforward control panel and limited functionality make it ideal for simple tasks, but it may not meet the needs of users requiring advanced features.
Space Considerations: The GE JES1072SHSS suits kitchens with limited countertop space. Despite being small, this microwave has limited interior capacity, making it challenging to reheat large dishes or multiple items simultaneously. However, it's perfect for everyday use, especially in tiny homes. Its streamlined design keeps the kitchen counter organized and spacious, but users with larger meals may find it a bit restrictive.
Sensor Cooking: The GE JES1072SHSS microwave does not have sensor cooking, a drawback for precision cooks. When cooking complex dishes, Angie had to monitor the process manually, and this requirement for hands-on involvement can make cooking consistently tricky. The lack of sensor cooking might suit those who want to reheat, but those who want to cook more intricately must use their judgment.
Cooking Modes: The GE JES1072SHSS microwave has some basic cooking modes, like popcorn, potatoes, and beverages, and for people who value simplicity in their cooking routines, the microwave's straightforward options make it perfect for quick reheating tasks. Angie's experience, however, highlighted the limitations, especially for dishes that require unique cooking settings. Having no diverse or specialized cooking modes means users must manually adjust power levels and cooking times, which can be less convenient. Express buttons for quick cooking are nice but don't compensate for the lack of advanced features.
Cooking Efficiency: A GE JES1072SHSS microwave does a good job reheating, but it doesn't work consistently for cooking more challenging foods. While the microwave reheats leftovers and warms drinks quickly, Angie noticed significant temperature fluctuations during more complex cooking tests, resulting in uneven results. It couldn't cook denser foods, like potatoes, so they were often undercooked. In the popcorn test, several kernels remained unpopped due to uneven heating across the cooking surface.
Read more: GE JES1072SHSS review
"GE's JES1072SHSS microwave is stylish and compact, but its small size makes it difficult to cook larger meals. The microwave does a good job reheating, but it isn't very reliable with consistent heating and lacks advanced features. In terms of cooking, it's good for simple tasks. The control panel is easy to use but doesn't have much versatility. It's perfect for small kitchens, but it's cramped for bigger meals."
| Attribute | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | easy to set up; controls are straightforward, and the microwave is ready to use out of the box | 8/10 |
| Design | stainless steel exterior; compact size is ideal for limited spaces; mute function; small interior size | 8/10 |
| Performance | performs adequately for basic tasks like reheating and defrosting, but it struggles with consistent heating; 700-watt power output is on the lower end | 9/10 |
| Maintenance | easy to maintain; glass turntable is removable | 9/10 |
| Value | budget-friendly; limited power and inconsistent heating performance | 7/10 |
Also reviewed
- The Farberware FMO07ABTBKA, priced at less than $70, offers decent cooking performance for individual portions. It has a small capacity but generally provides even cooking. However, it struggles with popcorn and exhibits heat inconsistency with pizza rolls. Its one-year warranty and low 700 watts might be limiting. ★★★½
How to choose one of the best compact microwave for your kitchen
Choosing a compact microwave can significantly enhance your kitchen's efficiency without occupying much space. Here’s a concise guide to help you make the right choice:
Size and Capacity: Microwaves usually measure between 0.5 and 1.0 cubic feet. Before buying, measure the space available in your kitchen and make sure it fits comfortably with adequate ventilation. You also need to consider the capacity, which affects the size of your dishes.
Power Output: A higher-wattage microwave will cook food faster and more evenly. If you use your microwave for more than reheating food, get one with a higher wattage.
Features and Functions: Modern compact microwaves offer many features, such as preset cooking programs, defrost functions, and variable power settings. Choose the features that matter most to you. For instance, a good defrost function is important if you defrost meat frequently.
Ease of Use: Choose a microwave with an intuitive control panel. Touchpads are more modern, but dials are more tactile. Ensure the display is easy to read and the controls easily operate.
Design and Aesthetics: Stainless steel is a popular choice for a sleek, modern look since it is visible in the kitchen.
Price and Warranty: Set a budget, but be open to spending more on quality and essential features.
Compact microwave FAQS
Are compact microwaves worth it?
A compact microwave's biggest advantage is its size. They fit in small kitchens, dorm rooms, office pantries, or RVs with limited counter space. Their small footprint means they can be tucked away on a shelf or counter without dominating the space. Compact microwaves are generally cheaper than their larger counterparts, so they're a great option.
Compact microwaves can be more energy-efficient because they consume less power. They offer essential features without the extra cost of larger, more sophisticated models. As a result, they not only cut down on electricity bills but are also a more environmentally friendly option for people who care about their carbon footprint. Although small, compact microwaves can do many things, like defrosting, reheating, and grilling.
Because of this, compact microwaves are great for quick and convenient cooking. However, they have their limitations too. Because they're smaller, they don't work well for large families or cooking large dishes. The wattage is usually lower, which means longer cooking times and potentially uneven heating.
How much do compact microwaves cost?
On average, you can expect to pay $50 to $150 for a compact microwave, depending on its features and brand reputation. Compact microwaves typically fall at the lower end of the microwave price range. Basic models with fewer features usually cost $50, whereas higher-end models from well-known brands might cost $150.
Brands with a good reputation and perceived quality might charge more. These brands often offer better warranties and customer service. A microwave with more sophisticated technology, like sensor cooking or inverter technology, tends to be at the high end of the price range.
Some microwaves come with sleek designs or are made from premium materials, like stainless steel, which can make them more expensive.
How long do compact microwaves last?
Like their larger counterparts, compact microwaves usually last 7 to 10 years, depending on how well they're used and maintained. An average microwave lasts about eight years. Proper care and maintenance can extend their lifespan, but neglect and misuse can also shorten it.
Microwaves wear out faster with frequent use. Daily use can lead to faster component degradation, but occasional use might extend its life.
To prevent food particles from damaging the microwave or affecting its performance, you need to keep it clean. Make sure the interior is clean. Keep it going by avoiding slamming the door and ensuring the vents aren't blocked.
High-end models from reputable brands may have better durability and longer warranties, which indicate a longer lifespan. A microwave's environment can also affect this. For example, using it in a humid, dusty area without proper ventilation can shorten its lifespan.
Microwaves may show wear as they age, such as longer cooking times, unusual noises, or inconsistent heating.
When is the best time to buy a compact microwave?
The best time to get a compact microwave deal is during a big sale. Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday, which happen in summer, October, and late November, offer huge discounts on electronics, including microwaves. It's a great time to find a bargain because retailers often slash prices to get customers to shop around the holidays. It's also a good time to shop around Christmas and New Year.
Manufacturers usually release new microwave models in the spring and fall. As new models hit the shelves, older models usually get a price cut. You can get a high-quality compact microwave for a great price, especially if you don't care about the latest features.
Another great time to buy a compact microwave is late in the summer, especially in August. Many retailers offer discounts to college students moving into apartments or dorms.
How we test the best compact microwaves
Our compact microwaves are thoroughly tested at Top Ten Reviews. To test the microwave's heating efficiency, we use a glass bowl of water to measure how well it heats food evenly and effectively. Then, we heat the same food item for the same duration on different occasions to ensure consistency.
We also test the control panel and functionality by assessing the usability and responsiveness of all buttons and settings. We also check the magnetron functionality to see if it's working. Finally, we do a space and size test to ensure it fits well in the space and meets the size requirements. The tests help us give our readers accurate and reliable reviews of compact microwaves.
Visit our dedicated page for more information about how we test.
Meet the team
Alex Temblador is a Dallas-based award-winning author and freelance writer who specializes in home, design, and architecture. She recently purchased her first home, a century-old Sears & Roebuck house with a wraparound porch and original hardwood floors. Alex also enjoys testing microwaves for Top Ten Reviews, which enhances her life as a first-time homeowner.
As a writer for Top Ten Reviews, Angie has spent over eight years focusing on testing small appliances, microwaves, and vacuum cleaners. Her expertise lies in reviewing home goods. With a background in technical writing and journalism, she now channels her passion for home improvement and exploration in the Utah mountains.
Terri, a freelance writer from Birmingham, AL, specializes in testing and reviewing various products. Focusing on kitchen appliances, she has contributed to renowned publications like Architectural Digest, Forbes, and Popular Science. Her expertise in testing microwaves makes her a valuable asset to Top Ten Reviews.
