A compact microwave can solve a tight-counter problem without taking over your kitchen, dorm room, office, or apartment. The trade-off is clear: smaller models save space, while larger interiors and higher output can make bulky dishes and larger portions easier to handle.
This guide compares microwaves small by capacity, countertop footprint, power, controls, cleaning access, and safety features. The six options include compact 0.7-cubic-foot models and one 0.9-cubic-foot model, so you can choose based on dish size and cooking routine instead of appearance alone.
Pros
- Compact footprint saves counter space in smaller kitchens
- Includes eight preset programs and express cook modes
- Ten power levels provide versatile heating control
- Child safety lock prevents unintended use
Cons
- Low 700-watt output increases overall cooking times
- Small 0.7-cubic-foot interior limits dish size
Pros
- Compact exterior fits tight countertop spaces
- Ten adjustable power levels provide heating control
- Removable ten-inch glass turntable simplifies cleaning
- Includes child safety lock for kitchen security
Cons
- Lower 700-watt power increases overall cooking times
- Small 0.7-cubic-foot interior limits oversized dishware
Pros
- Compact exterior footprint saves counter space
- Ten power levels for flexible heating
- Six convenient one-touch cooking presets
- Integrated child safety lock function
Cons
- 700-watt output heats slower than full-size models
- 9.6-inch turntable limits maximum dish dimensions
Pros
- Compact footprint for tight kitchen counters
- Eleven distinct power levels
- Dedicated one-touch express start buttons
Cons
- 10.6-inch turntable restricts oversized dish sizes
- Two-step door access slows routine opening
Buying Guide for Microwaves Small
Capacity and dish size
Capacity affects what you can place inside, especially when using wide bowls, casserole dishes, or taller containers. Five products in this comparison list 0.7 cubic feet, while the TOSHIBA lists 0.9 cubic feet. A larger cavity may offer more flexibility, but it also comes with a larger listed exterior footprint.
Choose a 0.7-cubic-foot model when you mainly reheat single portions and need a compact appliance. Consider the TOSHIBA when your dishes need more interior room, then verify available counter depth, width, and height before ordering.
Power and cooking control
Listed output ranges from 700 watts on the Farberware, Nostalgia, BLACK+DECKER, and Smad models to 900 watts on the TOSHIBA. Higher listed output can reduce the time needed for some tasks, but package directions and food quantity still affect results. Wattage alone does not guarantee more even heating or better cooking.
Power-level controls matter for more than reheating. The Farberware and Smad list 10 power levels and multi-stage cooking. The TOSHIBA lists 11 power levels. The two Nostalgia models list 10 power levels, while BLACK+DECKER lists 10. Choose more control if you often soften butter, defrost food, or cook at reduced power.
Presets and daily controls
Presets shorten routine tasks, but their usefulness depends on what you regularly prepare. Farberware and Smad list six one-touch options, including popcorn, potato, and pizza. BLACK+DECKER lists buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and dinner plates. TOSHIBA lists six preset menus.
The Nostalgia models list eight auto-cook programs, express cooking, and a digital clock. Look for presets that match your habits, then prioritize direct time and power controls if you prefer manual adjustment. Express cooking can help with short heating tasks, but listed features do not establish specific cooking times.
Countertop footprint and clearance
Measure the usable counter area, not only the empty space around it. BLACK+DECKER lists dimensions of 17.3 inches wide, 13 inches deep, and 10.2 inches high. TOSHIBA lists 18.7 inches wide, 13.3 inches deep, and 10.7 inches high. Dimensions for other models should be confirmed on their current product listings.
Leave the clearance required by the manufacturer and keep the door path unobstructed. A compact width may fit a narrow counter, while rear depth or overhead cabinets can still create a poor fit. Measure before choosing based on capacity alone.
Cleaning access and interior visibility
Food splatters make interior access important. Farberware and Smad list easy-clean interiors. Smad also lists a 9.6-inch glass turntable, while BLACK+DECKER lists a removable 10-inch glass turntable. Nostalgia lists a rotating glass turntable, and TOSHIBA lists a 10.6-inch glass turntable.
A removable turntable can make wiping the cavity easier, but the supplied information does not establish dishwasher safety for any turntable or appliance. Check the care instructions before using a dishwasher. Interior lighting, listed on Farberware, BLACK+DECKER, and Smad models, helps you monitor food without opening the door.
Safety and electrical details
Child locks can prevent unintended operation in homes with young children. Farberware, BLACK+DECKER, Smad, and both Nostalgia models list child safety locks. TOSHIBA lists a two-step child lock and says users should follow the opening steps shown in its instructions.
BLACK+DECKER lists 110 volts and UL approval in its product information. TOSHIBA lists 1,400 watts of input power and 900 watts of microwave output. Do not treat output wattage as electrical consumption, and verify outlet requirements and installation guidance for the specific model.
How We Compared These Products
We compared the supplied product listings by listed capacity, output power, dimensions, controls, presets, turntable information, lighting, and safety features. Available rating data was also supplied, but no customer reviews or firsthand testing evidence was documented, so this guide is based on product research rather than hands-on testing. Verify current specifications and care instructions before purchase.
For broader kitchen planning, see our guides to what Dutch ovens are and cookware sets non toxic options. If pan maintenance is your concern, our guide to cast iron cookware rust prevention covers a separate cleaning and storage problem.
Which Option Fits Your Kitchen?
For a compact routine with flexible manual control: Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven lists 700 watts, 10 power levels, multi-stage cooking, six one-touch options, defrost by weight or time, interior lighting, and a child safety lock. It fits users who want a small footprint with more than basic timed heating.
For more interior room and higher listed output: TOSHIBA Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu.Ft, 900W lists the largest capacity and highest output in this group, along with 11 power levels, six preset menus, defrost controls, and one-touch starts. Choose it when dish size matters more than the smallest possible footprint.
For a low-cost compact feature set: Countertop Microwave Ovens 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700 Watts lists 700 watts, 10 power levels, six one-touch options, a 9.6-inch glass turntable, interior lighting, and an easy-clean interior. Verify its dimensions and available clearance before ordering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these microwaves suitable for small kitchens?
Most list 0.7 cubic feet, which supports a compact design, but capacity does not provide exterior dimensions. Measure counter width, depth, height, door clearance, and manufacturer-required ventilation space before buying.
Which model has the largest listed capacity?
TOSHIBA lists 0.9 cubic feet. The Farberware, both Nostalgia models, BLACK+DECKER, and Smad models list 0.7 cubic feet.
Does higher wattage always mean better microwave performance?
No. Higher output may change heating speed for some tasks, but results also depend on food quantity, container shape, moisture, and selected power level. Follow package or recipe directions and adjust carefully.
Which models list the most power levels?
TOSHIBA lists 11 power levels. Farberware, BLACK+DECKER, Smad, and both Nostalgia models list 10 power levels.
Can the turntables go in the dishwasher?
The supplied information identifies glass turntables for several models but does not establish dishwasher compatibility. Check the specific manual or care instructions before placing any part in a dishwasher.
Which models include child safety features?
Farberware, BLACK+DECKER, Smad, and both Nostalgia models list child safety locks. TOSHIBA lists a two-step child lock. Confirm operating instructions before use.
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