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.
I have curated this guide to the best compact microwaves based on testing and reviews from the wider Top Ten Reviews team, assembling the best of the best on this page. I will continue to update the guide as new models become available, helping you save space in your kitchen.
The quick list
The best compact microwave overall
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 compact microwave on a budget
The Faberware FMO07ABTBKA microwave is budget-friendly and has good heating efficiency for small meals, but it struggles with larger quantities and has time consistency issues.
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.
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The best compact microwaves we recommend in 2024
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
The Toshiba EM925A5A-BS microwave offers impressive heating efficiency and time consistency despite its compact size and 900-watt power. The control panel is user-friendly with handy presets, although it lacks a sensor reheat button. Its magnetron performs well for everyday use, and the microwave's size suits limited counter space.
Heating Efficiency: The Toshiba EM925A5A-BS performs admirably, considering its compact size and 900-watt power. While our reviewer, Angie Parkinson, was using it, she found it heated various foods evenly and quickly. No matter how she cooked her frozen dinner or reheated soup, it always came out perfect. It doesn't have the power of a larger, higher-wattage unit, but it does well.
Angie loved how it browned marshmallows evenly without leaving cold spots on the tray. It did well on tasks usually tough for smaller microwaves, like popping popcorn, leaving only a few kernels unpopped.
Time Consistency: As Angie used it, she noticed it maintained even heating across different kinds of food, which is crucial for achieving consistent results. In the marshmallow test, this microwave did great, even browning without the uneven heating spots that other microwaves usually have.
It cooks a potato almost perfectly with the potato button, demonstrating its consistency in time, ensuring food is cooked thoroughly from edge to center. While some microwaves struggle with maintaining consistent temperatures, leading to hot and cold spots in food, the Toshiba EM925A5A-BS maintained a steady and reliable performance.
Control Panel and Functionality: The Toshiba EM925A5A-BS's control panel and functionality are straightforward and user-friendly, which Angie appreciated during her daily use. The microwave has many handy presets, like popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen veggies, beverages, and dinner plates, so it's easy to get started. There's no confusion with these options because its interface is so simple.
However, Angie noticed the absence of a sensor reheat button, which would have added another layer of convenience for reheating leftovers. Even so, the presets are intuitive and offer enough variety for most people. The express cook buttons are a nice touch for quick, one-touch cooking, and you can easily adjust the power level and cook time.
Magnetron Functionality: For a microwave of its size and power, the Toshiba EM925A5A-BS magnetron is pretty good. 900 watts is enough for most household microwave tasks, from defrosting meat to cooking frozen food. Angie found the magnetron's performance consistent during her usage, delivering reliable results across various foods. In terms of performance, it's good for a compact microwave despite not being the most powerful.
It melted and cooked food evenly, representing the magnetron's quality. Compared to higher-wattage models, it takes a little longer to heat large or dense items, but it's pretty good for everyday use.
Size and Space: In terms of size and space, the Toshiba EM925A5A-BS is a great choice if you have limited counter space. Its 0.9 cubic foot capacity fits standard dinner plates, mixing bowls, and even big popcorn bags. Because of its thoughtful design, it fits in kitchens where space is a premium without sacrificing functionality.
Despite its compact footprint, the interior is surprisingly roomy, which surprised Angie during her testing. It could handle most of her cooking needs without feeling cramped. Large family meals may be a bit restrictive, so consider that based on your cooking habits.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Heating Efficiency | effectively handles most cooking tasks; excelled in the marshmallow test; not the most powerful | 8/10 |
| Time Consistency | maintained even heat levels across its cooking surface | 9/10 |
| Control Panel and Functionality | good range of presets and power levels; lacks advanced features like moisture sensors | 8/10 |
| Magnetron Functionality | 900-watt magnetron provides adequate power for most tasks; performs well for its size and price point | 8/10 |
| Size and Space | comfortably fits a dinner plate, mixing bowl, and large popcorn bag; may not be ideal for cooking large family dinners | 7/10 |
The best compact microwave on a budget
The Faberware FMO07ABTBKA microwave offers good heating efficiency for its compact size and budget-friendly price. While it struggles with larger quantities and exhibits some time consistency issues, its straightforward control panel, useful features, and adequate magnetron functionality make it suitable for small meals and quick reheats.
Heating Efficiency: Since it's compact and budget-friendly, the Faberware FMO07ABTBKA's heating efficiency is pretty good. It's not the most powerful microwave but heated individual portions well during Angie's tests. For instance, when using the Potato button, the potato came out well-cooked, which was great for this price range.
However, it struggled with popcorn initially, leaving several kernels unpopped, but it improved significantly on a second try. While denser foods might take longer, it's fine for everyday reheating. It's enough to heat small meals or quick reheats if you're primarily using it for small or quick reheats, but you wouldn't want to use it to heat large quantities quickly.
Time Consistency: The Faberware FMO07ABTBKA is inconsistent in terms of time. In Angie's experience, the microwave cooked potatoes evenly, but she had some issues with pizza rolls. There was a noticeable temperature difference across the tray, with one side about 15 degrees hotter than the other.
While this isn't ideal, especially if you're cooking items that require uniform heat, it's worth noting that other microwaves Angie tried had even larger discrepancies. You might find it consistent enough for basic reheating and cooking, but if you're looking for more precise heating, keep an eye on your food and adjust the turntable placement.
Control Panel and Functionality: The Faberware FMO07ABTBKA has a straightforward control panel and many features for a microwave at this price point. Six express options for quick cooking time, ranging from one to six minutes, cover most basic needs, such as popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and beverages.
Angie found the memory button particularly useful for frequently used settings, saving her time cooking her regular dishes. It doesn't have sensor cooking, but it can defrost by time or weight, and the keypad lock is a thoughtful addition for households with kids.
Magnetron Functionality: The Faberware FMO07ABTBKA's magnetron functionality performed adequately during Angie's use despite its lower wattage, at 700 watts. Even though it has the lowest power level among the microwaves she tested, it still handled most tasks pretty well. It didn't show any significant performance issues directly linked to it. For smaller food items, it works well, but it's not powerful enough to heat larger meals quickly.
This microwave's magnetron worked consistently, and other microwaves of the same wattage varied in performance. If you're looking for a basic model for everyday reheating and simple cooking tasks, this magnetron will meet your needs, but you might need more power for demanding cooking tasks.
Size and Space: The Faberware FMO07ABTBKA's strengths and weaknesses are its size and space. It's one of the smallest microwaves, perfect for those with limited counter space or living in small apartments. Angie found it fits individual portions, like a standard dinner plate or a small bowl. However, if you plan to cook large meals or serve your family, the space might be a problem.
Designed for quick snacks and small meals, it isn't suitable for larger cooking tasks. The compact size and budget-friendly nature make it a great option for minimalists and those who prioritize space-saving.
Read more: Farberware FMO07ABTBKA review
"If you need basic reheating and don't have a lot of space, the Faberware FMO07ABTBKA is a good choice. However, if you need more advanced cooking, it might not be the best choice. It's compact, budget-friendly, and great for quick reheats and small meals. Because of its easy-to-use control panel, handy features, and magnetron functionality, it can be used in small apartments without much counter space."
| Attribute | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Heating Efficiency | decent but not outstanding; performed well with some foods, but struggled with others like popcorn | 6/10 |
| Time Consistency | a mixed bag; managed to cook potatoes evenly; may require monitoring and adjustments | 5/10 |
| Control Panel and Functionality | decent selection of presets and express options; includes a memory function to save frequently used settings; lacks advanced sensing technology | 7/10 |
| Magnetron Functionality | on the lower end of the power spectrum; didn’t noticeably underperform during tests | 6/10 |
| Size and Space | compact and affordable; can be limiting for users needing to heat larger portions | 5/10 |
The best premium compact microwave
The Toshiba Countertop Microwave offers exceptional heating efficiency and time consistency due to its multifunctional capabilities and sensor technology. With a thoughtfully designed control panel and reliable magnetron functionality, it delivers consistent results across various cooking modes. Despite its substantial capabilities, it's a space-saving option for multifunctional cooking.
Heating Efficiency: Because of its multifunctional capabilities, the Toshiba Countertop Microwave has good heating efficiency. Our reviewer, Terri Williams, used it as a microwave, broiler, baker, and air fryer, so it can do much more than just microwave. Thanks to the sensor cook feature, which adjusted cooking times for different dishes, her meals were evenly cooked.
When Terri baked cookies with the convection setting, they came out beautifully crispy and gooey, while when she air-fried meatballs, they came out tender and delicious. The device managed to stay warm across all modes despite its multifunctionality, but you must follow the accessory guidelines to get the most out of it.
Time Consistency: With its various cooking functions, the Toshiba Countertop Microwave delivers reliable results in a short amount of time. The sensor cook feature allowed Terri to figure out the right cooking time for different foods without guessing. For instance, the appliance maintained consistent temperatures when air frying or baking, so you didn't have to watch it constantly.
Terri also liked the popcorn setting, as it gave almost perfect results with a few unpopped kernels. Once you master the accessories for each function, you'll have uniform cooking results. It worked well in the microwave, bake, and air fry options, so you didn't have to worry about uneven heating or overcooking when preparing meals.
Control Panel and Functionality: This Toshiba Countertop Microwave has a thoughtfully designed control panel that offers much functionality. Power, Broil/Bake, Combi, Pro Defrost, and Sensor Cook are just some of the buttons that make it easy to use. The digital display was easy to read, and the dial added a tactile element Terri liked.
HomeFry mode and sensor cooking come in presets, so they're easy to use, especially for people new to multifunction appliances. It's important to remember which trays and racks are for which function, as misuse could ruin your food. The kitchen timer/clock and sound on/off/lock features add to the convenience, allowing you to customize to suit your tastes.
Magnetron Functionality: The Toshiba Countertop Microwave's magnetron functionality stands out due to its reliable performance across various cooking modes. Despite being a multifunctional appliance, the microwave component delivers consistent results, efficiently handling tasks like defrosting and reheating. When Terri tested it, she was impressed with how well it distributed heat, which is crucial to achieving uniform cooking results.
As a result of the sensor technology, it automatically adjusts power and time based on the type of food, ensuring optimal results. Even though the appliance's capabilities might seem overwhelming, the magnetron works seamlessly within the ecosystem, supporting air fry and convection functions. Its versatility allows it to replace multiple kitchen appliances, making it great for people with limited counter space.
Size and Space: If you're looking for multifunctionality without sacrificing too much kitchen space, the Toshiba Countertop Microwave is a great choice. The unit measures 11.8 x 20 x 16.3 inches, so it's not too bulky but has plenty of interior space. To utilize its full range of functions, it must be spacious enough to handle large dishes like baking trays and air fryer baskets.
Despite its substantial capabilities, it fits well into Terri's kitchen setup, complementing the existing decor with its sleek black and stainless steel finish. It's important to consider the clearance when you plan its placement since it ensures optimal performance and safety. While it takes up a little more space than a normal microwave, its extra features make it worth it.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Heating Efficiency | multifunctional capabilities; also air fries, broils, and bakes; sensor cook feature; popcorn function delivers nearly perfect results | 9/10 |
| Time Consistency | evenly heats pre-cooked meals; sensor cook feature; some trial and error may be needed | 8/10 |
| Control Panel and Functionality | intuitive, with easy-to-read buttons and a dial for selections; ; range of functions, including Power, Broil/Bake, Combi, and Sensor Cook; remembering the correct trays and racks for each function can be tedious | 8/10 |
| Magnetron Functionality | reliable performance for standard microwave functions | 8/10 |
| Size and Space | compact yet spacious enough for most tasks; accommodates standard dishes and trays | 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.
Heating Efficiency: The Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 combines microwave, air fryer, and convection oven functions, impressing our reviewer, Marah Eakin, with its heating efficiency. No matter how she microwaved soup or used the convection setting for chicken legs, it consistently cooked well. Using the microwave, food heats up fast and evenly while using the convection and air fry settings to get crispy, well-browned food.
Marah especially liked how the appliance maintained consistent temperatures across different cooking modes, so her meals were cooked thoroughly without any cold spots. She also loved the presets for popcorn and pizza because they worked well.
Time Consistency: The Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 delivered consistent cooking times throughout Marah's use. Sensor technology allows food to be heated evenly without overcooking, especially in microwave mode. With the convection setting, she could cook chicken legs perfectly, with crispy skin and juicy meat, all in the prescribed amount of time.
During convection and air frying, the appliance emits a noticeable whooshing sound, which soon becomes background noise. The air fry function also worked well, producing evenly cooked results without constant monitoring. Marah liked the way she could customize the cycle-end music.
Control Panel and Functionality: The Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 control panel is thoughtfully designed, offering a variety of functionalities that enhance its versatility. With two intuitive knobs for adjusting time and temperature or power, the digital readout was easy to navigate. Switching between cooking modes was easy, thanks to the various microwave, air fry, and convection buttons.
The "food menu" button provides preset access and makes cooking various dishes easy. In addition to the child lock, you can save favorite settings using the "heart" button. The appliance's multifunctionality might initially seem overwhelming, but its well-organized control panel makes it easy to use.
Magnetron Functionality: Despite being part of a multifunctional appliance, the Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 magnetron is robust, providing reliable microwave performance. The microwave delivers consistent results, reheating and defrosting efficiently. The magnetron worked well in the appliance's ecosystem, supporting air fry and convection.
In just two minutes, Marah had piping hot soup from the microwave. As a result of its magnetron, the unit serves its purpose effectively without being overly complex, proving its quality. The magnetron's performance is a key component of the Combi Wave's ability to deliver consistent and reliable cooking results, even though it takes some time to get used to the multifunctionality.
Size and Space: The Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 has both strengths and weaknesses in size and space. At first glance, it might seem intimidating, especially in a smaller kitchen like Marah's. However, its multifunctionality makes it worth the space, replacing multiple appliances. She found it spacious enough to handle large dishes, like baking trays and air fryer baskets, essential for using its full range of functions.
Despite its size, it fits well into Marah's kitchen setup, complementing her existing decor with its sleek stainless-steel finish. However, because it only has one cooking surface, you can't cook multiple things simultaneously, so you'll have to plan your cooking.
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."
| Attribute | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Heating Efficiency | effectively performing as a microwave, air fryer, and convection oven; handles a variety of cooking tasks with ease, from reheating soup to baking cookies and roasting chicken; presets and sensor functions | 9/10 |
| Time Consistency | consistently delivers well-cooked results across different functions; cooking times are optimized for each dish | 9/10 |
| Control Panel and Functionality | intuitive and user-friendly, featuring a large digital readout and two knobs; ability to customize sound cues; "heart" button to save favorite settings | 9/10 |
| Magnetron Functionality | reliable microwave functionality; need to select appropriate settings and accessories for each cooking mode | 8/10 |
| Size and Space | substantial appliance; single cooking surface, limiting the ability to cook multiple items | 7/10 |
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.
Heating Efficiency: During Angie's tests, she consistently had even cooking results, minimizing cold spots across various dishes, thanks to its 950-watt power and inverter technology. Panasonic NN-SD372SR's 950-watt power and inverter technology are pretty awesome. She liked the Keep Warm feature because it let her keep food warm for 30 minutes without overcooking. This is great for dinners that must stay hot while waiting for everyone to arrive.
The popcorn setting wasn't perfect, but it popped most kernels effectively, with very little burning. When baking potatoes, the appliance cooked them evenly without a problem. You might have to experiment a bit to figure out the right cooking time for some food without preset buttons, but once you do, you'll get great results every time.
Time Consistency: The Panasonic NN-SD372SR has good time consistency overall, but its unique control panel takes a little getting used to. The microwave maintained even temperatures in tests like cooking potatoes and pizza rolls. The temperature variance was about 8 degrees, showing Angie a stable heating pattern.
The Auto Reheat and Auto Cook functions require some familiarization, but they work well. Although there aren't many preset options, the suggested cooking times inside the door are useful. Despite occasionally overcooking some foods, like popcorn, the overall experience was positive, with most meals coming out fine.
Control Panel and Functionality: The Panasonic NN-SD372SR control panel is initially a little challenging to use due to its unique design with horizontal buttons and a pop-out dial. The microwave interface on this model isn't as easy to master as typical ones with preset buttons, particularly for selecting times and power levels. However, once you're familiar with it, it's quite powerful.
The Keep Warm and Turbo Inverter Defrost features are valuable additions, offering versatility beyond standard cooking tasks. Angie found it inconvenient that there weren't multiple preset buttons, which meant she had to guess for optimal settings. Despite not being intuitive, the Quick Minute button and More/Less popcorn options provide a level of customization.
Magnetron Functionality: The Panasonic NN-SD372SR's magnetron functionality is commendable. It delivers 950 watts of power that efficiently handles most cooking tasks. This power level worked well for quick and thorough heating without leaving cold spots in the food. With inverter technology, it's got steady power, which is great for delicate foods that need gentle heating.
This microwave kept temperatures even across different dishes during Angie's use, proving its magnetron's reliability. Even though other microwaves at this price point might not offer the same power, the NN-SD372SR delivers consistent results across multiple cooking modes.
Size and Space: Panasonic's NN-SD372SR is good size and space, perfect for people with small kitchens. Its interior of 0.8 cubic feet is a good mix of compactness and functionality. For most individual or small family meals, it's big enough to fit a 10.5-inch dinner plate and a medium-sized mixing bowl.
Unfortunately, the interior height is limited, so taller items like 7-inch glasses can't fit without some maneuvering. Despite this, the compact footprint lets it fit comfortably on my countertop without dominating the space. Its sleek stainless steel design makes it a modern touch to any kitchen.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Heating Efficiency | 950-watt power and inverter technology; excelled in cooking tests, particularly with potatoes; wasn't perfect with popcorn | 8/10 |
| Time Consistency | a strong point for this microwave; only an 8-degree difference noted in tests with pizza rolls | 8/10 |
| Control Panel and Functionality | unique but can be challenging to master due to its unconventional design; useful features like Keep Warm and Inverter Turbo Defrost; lack of preset buttons for common foods | 6/10 |
| Magnetron Functionality | 950-watt magnetron, combined with inverter technology | 9/10 |
| Size and Space | reasonable space for a compact microwave; can accommodate a 10.5-inch dinner plate and a mixing bowl; height may limit the use of taller items | 7/10 |
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.
Heating Efficiency: Despite its 700-watt power, Cuisinart's CMW-70 Microwave Oven heats food evenly for a compact model. During our reviewer Alex Temblador's week of testing, she discovered it heats food evenly enough for a compact model. The auto-cook feature is great, so she could easily soften butter and cook popcorn.
Despite the lower wattage, it still cooked Alex's meals well. The Soften/Melt setting, especially useful for baking prep, melts chocolate and softens butter without overheating.
Time Consistency: The Cuisinart CMW-70 Microwave Oven generally works well but requires some adaptation because of its unique control setup. The auto-cook functions, like Potatoes and Frozen Veggies, worked fine. To avoid overcooking, Alex had to adjust the timing for certain tasks, like popcorn.
Alex liked Express Cook for quick heating but had to remember to press Cook Time before setting manual times. Despite these quirks, the microwave still kept meals heated evenly.
Control Panel and Functionality: The Cuisinart CMW-70 microwave oven's control panel is on the right side, and features preprogrammed touchpads for easy access to auto-cook settings like Pizza and Veggie. At first, Alex found it a bit cumbersome that she had to press Cook Time before entering the duration.
The +30SEC button makes it easy to add time increments. The memory function saves frequently used settings, but Alex didn't use it much. The panel could be better laid out, but it has some good options for a microwave.
Magnetron Functionality: Despite its 700 watts, the Cuisinart CMW-70 has a magnetron function that works well as a compact microwave. Although it doesn't have the power of higher-wattage microwaves, it handles basic tasks like defrosting and reheating without a problem. Alex could defrost food with the Inverter Turbo Defrost feature without partially cooking it.
The power level adjustment seemed unnecessary for most tasks, but it's available for those needing it. The magnetron delivered consistent heating, which is essential for avoiding cold spots.
Size and Space: Those with limited counter space will love the Cuisinart CMW-70 Microwave Oven because of its size and space. It's compact enough to fit in a small kitchen or apartment without sacrificing utility since it holds 0.7 cubic feet. It's great for standard plates and bowls, but bigger dishes and tall cups are a bit challenging.
While its interior size limits its use for larger meals, it's perfect for single servings and smaller portions. It has a sleek black design with stainless steel accents.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Heating Efficiency | provides adequate heating efficiency for basic tasks; auto-cook functions, such as Potato and Frozen Veggies, perform well; larger items may require additional time | 7/10 |
| Time Consistency | handles smaller items well; items like salmon packages may not rotate properly; popcorn function also requires careful monitoring | 6/10 |
| Control Panel and Functionality | user-friendly, offering a range of preprogrammed touchpad functions; two-step cooking and memory functions; +30SEC button is a convenient addition | 8/10 |
| Magnetron Functionality | 700-watt magnetron provides basic functionality; lacks the power for more demanding cooking | 6/10 |
| Size and Space | compact and ideal for small spaces; fits standard plates and smaller items well; larger dishes or tall cups may not fit comfortably | 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.
Heating Efficiency: Compared to other models, the GE JES1072SHSS heats up well for basic reheating tasks. During Angie's use, she effectively reheated large dinner plates and glasses but found it hard to cook potatoes. It left more unpopped kernels than other microwaves she's tested in the popcorn test.
It can reheat dishes well, but it's unreliable for dishes needing consistent heating because of the temperature differences across the tray. It does the job for someone who only needs a microwave for simple reheating, but if you're looking for more precise cooking efficiency, you might want to consider another microwave.
Time Consistency: While it works for straightforward reheating tasks, Angie noticed a lot of temperature variation in more demanding cooking tests. Time consistency with the GE JES1072SHSS is a mixed bag. Certain areas were noticeably undercooked in the potato test, while several kernels were still unpopped in the popcorn test.
These issues suggest the microwave struggles to maintain even temperatures across its cooking surface. The express keys are helpful for quick tasks, but they don't compensate for the uneven heating. If you're mainly using the microwave for short, simple tasks, it's reliable enough. It might not do well with complex recipes that need precise timing and even heating.
Control Panel and Functionality: The GE JES1072SHSS's control panel is straightforward, offering basic functionality with a simple layout. It comes with basic presets like popcorn, potato, and beverage, along with express buttons for cooking for 1 to 6 minutes. These features are great, but the panel is not as versatile as others because it lacks advanced or food-specific settings.
Angie liked how easy it was but missed more comprehensive control panels for more flexibility. Since this microwave has limited functionality, you might have to adjust settings manually for certain dishes, which can be annoying. The control panel is good for users looking for no-frills microwaves. If you're looking for a microwave with more customizable options and advanced features, the GE JES1072SHSS might not suit you.
Magnetron Functionality: The GE JES1072SHSS's magnetron functionality is suitable for basic microwave tasks but lacks the power needed for more advanced cooking. It's good for reheating and simple cooking but doesn't deliver consistent heat around the cooking surface with its standard wattage. While it's great for warming beverages and reheating leftovers, it's hard to cook larger or denser foods like potatoes evenly.
While the magnetron's performance is good, it might not be enough if you cook many meals that need precise temperature control. Its limitations became obvious during tests involving varied cooking times and temperatures when it couldn't match the performance of higher-wattage models.
Size and Space: The GE JES1072SHSS's size and space make it a compact and stylish option for those with limited kitchen space. Regarding reheating, it fits standard dinner plates and glasses, so Angie thinks it's good for apartments and kitchens where counter space is scarce. Due to its compact size, it can't hold larger dishes or multiple items at once.
If you're preparing larger meals, the interior space might feel cramped with the sleek design. Despite these limitations, the GE JES1072SHSS is a practical solution for those looking for a basic microwave with a minimalistic design. It's great if you're looking for space-saving over capacity.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Heating Efficiency | falls short compared to other models; managed to reheat a large dinner plate and glass effectively; struggled with tasks like cooking potatoes | 6/10 |
| Time Consistency | a weak point; noticeable temperature difference across the tray during tests | 5/10 |
| Control Panel and Functionality | straightforward, offering basic presets; express keys for quick cooking times; lacks advanced features; limited number of food-specific buttons | 7/10 |
| Magnetron Functionality | provides adequate power for basic tasks; performance is average | 6/10 |
| Size and Space | compact and stylish; accommodates standard dishes and glasses | 7/10 |
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.
