9 Best Small Countertop Microwave Ovens (November 2026)

The best small countertop microwave ovens include the COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven for quiet cooking in tight spaces, the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven for sensor reheating, and the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven for simple preset cooking.

On this page (7 sections)

1. How we chose these small countertop microwave ovens
2. Quick comparison of the picks
3. The best small countertop microwave ovens by use
4. How do you choose a compact countertop microwave?
5. Which features are useful in a small microwave?
6. What should you measure before buying?
7. Which small countertop microwave should you choose?

The COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven is the best small countertop microwave oven for tight spaces, with a compact 0.7 cu. ft. interior, one-touch cooking and a mute function. If you need more room, the 0.9 cu. ft.

Toshiba adds 900 watts, while the 1.2 cu. ft. Toshiba offers the most capacity in this group.

Small countertop microwave ovens are easier to fit when you compare outside measurements as well as capacity. Allow room for the door to open and follow the ventilation clearances in the manual.

For a broader set of sizes and features, see our best countertop microwave oven picks. If you already know you need more cooking room, compare the best large countertop microwave ovens.

Our picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for quiet cooking in tight spaces

   COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for sensor reheating

   TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven

   9.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for simple preset cooking

   BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven

   9.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

4. 4

   TOSHIBA Microwave Oven

   Best for a compact 900-watt option
   Check it
5. 5

   Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

   Best for a low profile
   Check it
6. 6

   BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop

   Best for a larger turntable
   Check it
7. 7

   Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 cu.ft.

   Best for multi-stage cooking
   Check it
8. 8

   Frigidaire

   Best for a compact black finish
   Check it
9. 9

   Emerson Compact Countertop Microwave Oven

   Best for saved settings
   Check it

How we chose these small countertop microwave ovens

We compared the listed dimensions, capacity, output power, controls and cooking features to identify compact countertop microwave ovens for different counter and cooking needs. Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.

The smallest capacity among these picks is 0.7 cu. ft., while the largest is 1.2 cu. ft. That difference matters: a narrow counter may favor a compact cabinet, while a dinner plate or broad container may need more interior room.

We also considered controls that can make everyday use more convenient, such as one-touch presets, express cooking, mute functions, child safety locks and defrost settings. Features differ by model, so choose based on the tasks you actually repeat.

There is no single best small size for every kitchen. Measure your spot before choosing, and compare the external width, depth and height rather than relying on the word “compact.”

Quick comparison of the picks

These compact microwave ovens range from 0.7 to 1.2 cu. ft. and from 700 to 1000 watts of stated output power. Use the dimensions to narrow the choices, then check the features that matter most to you.

The best small countertop microwave ovens by use

The picks below are ordered by score, with a distinct use for each model. Start with the COMFEE' for compact everyday cooking, then move down the list if you need a particular capacity, control or feature.

1

COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for quiet cooking in tight spaces

9.7/10Our score

• 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
• 700 watts
• Mute function
• ECO mode
• One-touch presets

This compact pick pairs a 0.7 cu. ft. interior with a mute function, ECO mode and one-touch cooking for common foods.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Mute function
• ECO mode
• Time- or weight-based defrost

Cons

• 700 watts of output power
• Small interior suits modest loads

The COMFEE' is a strong fit when counter space is limited and you want familiar cooking shortcuts. Its 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and 17.3-inch width keep it in the compact group, while one-touch presets cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and reheating.

A mute function lets you turn off the beeps, which can help in a shared room or when you want quieter cooking. The ECO mode reduces standby power by 50% according to COMFEE', and the two-step child lock adds a control to prevent unintended use.

This model has 700 watts of output power and two defrost settings, by time or weight. Its 12.7-inch depth is among the shallower measurements here, but leave the required clearance around the cabinet.

Choose it if you want a small microwave with quiet controls and common presets. If you need a larger dish cavity or more output power, compare a 0.9 or 1.1 cu. ft. model instead.

2

TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for sensor reheating

9.6/10Our score

• 1.2 cu. ft. capacity
• 1000 watts
• Humidity sensor
• 10 power levels
• 12.4 in turntable

A larger interior, humidity sensor and 1000 watts suit buyers who want more room and sensor-based cooking in a countertop model.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Humidity sensor
• 1000 watts
• Time- or weight-based defrost

Cons

• Wider than the 0.7 cu. ft. picks
• Check the larger footprint against your counter

The TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven suits buyers who want more interior room and sensor-based cooking. Its 1.2 cu. ft. capacity and 1000 watts make it the largest-capacity pick here, while its humidity sensor adjusts time and power based on food humidity.

That extra room takes more counter space: the oven measures 20.6 inches wide, 14.6 inches deep and 11.8 inches high. Check the full footprint against your counter and leave room for the door to open.

Ten power levels give you control for different foods, and the model includes defrost by time or weight. It also has a mute feature and a 12.4-inch removable glass turntable.

Pick this Toshiba when larger dishes and sensor reheating matter more than a very small footprint. For a smaller Toshiba option, the 0.9 cu. ft. model below takes up less listed width and depth.

3

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for simple preset cooking

9.6/10Our score

• 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
• 700 watts
• 10 power settings
• Six preset buttons
• Child safety lock

This 0.7 cu. ft. model keeps the footprint compact and has dedicated buttons for six common foods, plus a child safety lock.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Six preset buttons
• 10 power settings
• Push-button door release

Cons

• 700 watts of output power
• No mute function noted

The BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact choice with direct access to six preset foods. Its 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and 17.3-inch width suit a smaller counter, and the controls include popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate buttons.

A removable 10-inch glass turntable, interior light and child safety lock cover practical everyday needs. The push-button door release gives you a simple way to open the cabinet, while 10 power settings offer more control than presets alone.

At 13 inches deep and 10.2 inches high, this model is easy to compare with other compact microwave ovens. It has 700 watts of output power, so consider the 900- or 1000-watt options if higher output is a priority.

Choose it for straightforward preset cooking in a small cabinet. If a mute function is important, look at the COMFEE', Chefman or compact Toshiba instead.

4

TOSHIBA Microwave Oven: Best for a compact 900-watt option

9.6/10Our score

• 0.9 cu. ft. capacity
• 900 watts
• 11 power levels
• Mute function
• Child safety lock

The 0.9 cu. ft. cavity offers a middle ground between 0.7 and 1.2 cu. ft. models, with 900 watts, a mute function and child lock.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 900 watts
• Mute function
• 11 power levels

Cons

• Wider and taller than the smallest picks
• Confirm the listed dimensions fit your counter

The 0.9 cu. ft. TOSHIBA Microwave Oven offers a middle size between the 0.7 cu. ft. compact models and the larger 1.1 to 1.2 cu. ft. choices.

It measures 18.7 inches wide, 13.3 inches deep and 10.7 inches high, with 900 watts of output power.

Its six preset menus, 11 power levels and one-touch start provide a useful spread of controls. The model also includes a mute function, child safety lock and defrost by time or weight.

A 10.6-inch removable glass turntable gives you a way to compare dish size before buying. Check the turntable against the plates and bowls you use most, and confirm the cabinet will have the clearance the manual calls for.

Consider it if you want more capacity and output than a 0.7 cu. ft. microwave without moving up to the 1.1 or 1.2 cu. ft. models. It is also a good fit if a mute button matters.

5

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.: Best for a low profile

9.5/10Our score

• 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
• 700 watts
• 10 power levels
• Mute button
• Six cooking presets

At 9.53 inches high, this 0.7 cu. ft. microwave is a compact option for counters where height matters, with a mute button and six presets.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Shortest listed height in this group
• Mute button
• Glass turntable is top-rack dishwasher safe

Cons

• 700 watts of output power
• Measure the available width and depth too

The Chefman stands out for its 9.53-inch height, the lowest listed height among these picks. Its 0.7 cu. ft. cabinet measures 17.52 inches wide and 12.93 inches deep, so it may suit a low-clearance shelf or a counter below an upper cabinet.

Six presets cover popcorn, pizza, beverages, vegetables, potatoes and leftovers. You can also set time and power with the digital controls, choose from 10 power levels, or add time using the +30 seconds button.

The mute button silences cooking beeps, and the child safety lock is built into the handle. Chefman says the glass turntable is top-rack dishwasher safe.

This model provides 700 watts of output power. Pick it when vertical space matters and your regular dishes fit a 0.7 cu. ft. interior; compare the slightly taller COMFEE' if ECO mode is more useful to you.

6

BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop: Best for a larger turntable

9.4/10Our score

• 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
• 1000 watts
• 12.4 in turntable
• 10 power settings
• Child safety lock

This 1.1 cu. ft. model adds a 12.4-inch turntable and 1000 watts for buyers who need more room than a mini microwave provides.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 12.4-inch glass turntable
• 1000 watts
• Six preset buttons

Cons

• Larger footprint than 0.7 cu. ft. models
• Check counter depth and width before choosing

This BLACK+DECKER model gives you a 1.1 cu. ft. interior and a 12.4-inch glass turntable. Its 1000 watts of output power and 10 settings suit buyers who need more capacity than the 0.7 cu. ft. compact options provide.

The tradeoff is its footprint: it measures 20.6 inches long, 14.8 inches wide and 11.8 inches high. Compare all three dimensions with the space you have, and keep clearance and door swing in mind.

Six preset buttons handle popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and dinner plates. The microwave also includes a child safety lock, interior light and push-button door release.

Choose it when turntable size and interior capacity matter more than having the narrowest cabinet. For similar capacity with a humidity sensor, consider the 1.2 cu. ft.

Toshiba above.

7

Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 cu.ft.: Best for multi-stage cooking

9.1/10Our score

• 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
• 700 watts
• 10 power levels
• Multi-stage cooking
• Time- or weight-based defrost

This compact Farberware includes multi-stage cooking, six one-touch options and two defrost methods in a 0.7 cu. ft. size.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Multi-stage cooking
• Defrost by time or weight
• Clock and kitchen timer

Cons

• 700 watts of output power
• No mute function noted

The Farberware is a 0.7 cu. ft. microwave with multi-stage cooking, a feature that lets you set more than one cooking step. It also has 10 power levels, six one-touch options and defrost by either time or weight.

Its 17.3-inch width and 12.99-inch depth keep the listed footprint close to several other compact picks. The 10.14-inch height is slightly lower than some 0.7 cu. ft. options, though the Chefman is shorter.

A clock and kitchen timer make it easier to keep track of cooking. The child safety lock adds a useful control for a shared kitchen.

Pick this Farberware if multi-stage cooking and two defrost choices matter more than a mute button. Its 700 watts of output power suit modest heating tasks in a compact space.

8

Frigidaire: Best for a compact black finish

8.4/10Our score

• 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
• 700 watts
• 10 power levels
• Six one-touch menus
• Removable glass turntable

This black 0.7 cu. ft. microwave has a digital timer, 10 power levels and six one-touch menus for everyday heating and defrosting.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Shallow listed depth
• Six one-touch menus
• Removable glass turntable

Cons

• 700 watts of output power
• Check the width against your available space

The Frigidaire is a compact black microwave with 0.7 cu. ft. of capacity and 700 watts of output power. Its 12.3-inch listed depth is the shallowest in this group, which may help when counter depth is the main constraint.

The width is 17.8 inches and the height is 10.2 inches, so check all measurements against your counter. It includes a removable glass turntable, bright LED display, digital timer and clock.

Six one-touch menus, 10 power levels and auto defrost cover common cooking needs. Express cooking also starts heating with one touch.

Choose this model when shallow depth and a black finish fit your kitchen. If quieter operation matters more, compare it with the COMFEE' or the compact Toshiba, both of which include a mute function.

9

Emerson Compact Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for saved settings

8.0/10Our score

• 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
• 700 watts
• 10 power levels
• Six presets
• Memory function

The Emerson combines a compact capacity with 10 power levels, six presets, time- and weight-based defrost, and a memory function.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Memory function
• Two defrost options
• 99-minute, 99-second timer

Cons

• 700 watts of output power
• No mute function noted

The Emerson gives you a 0.7 cu. ft. capacity with a memory function for saving a preferred setting. It also has 10 power levels, six presets, express cooking and defrost by time or weight.

Its measurements are 17.3 inches wide, 13.2 inches deep and 10.2 inches high. Compare those dimensions with your space and check that the turntable accommodates your usual dishes.

A 99-minute, 99-second digital timer gives you a long countdown range for kitchen tasks. The control type includes both a knob and touch input, which may appeal if you prefer having a physical dial alongside buttons.

Consider this Emerson if saved settings and flexible defrost are priorities. It has 700 watts of output power and no mute function is noted, so choose another model if quiet beeps are essential.

How do you choose a compact countertop microwave?

Choose a compact countertop microwave by matching its external dimensions and turntable to your space and dishes. Capacity gives a rough sense of interior room, but it does not replace a tape measure.

Which dimensions matter most?

Check width, depth and height, then account for the door opening and the clearance required by the manual. A microwave that fits between cabinets may still be difficult to use if the door hits a wall or the top has too little space.

Depth is easy to overlook when a counter sits close to a wall or backsplash. Among these picks, the Frigidaire has the shallowest listed depth at 12.3 inches, while the 1.1 and 1.2 cu. ft. models are wider.

Is capacity or turntable size more useful?

Capacity helps compare overall interior room, while turntable diameter gives a more direct check for dishes that rotate during cooking. The smallest models here have 10-inch or 10.6-inch turntables, and the larger picks include 12.4-inch turntables.

Measure the widest plate or container you use. Leave room for it to rotate without rubbing the interior walls.

How much power do you need?

These models range from 700 to 1000 watts of output power. Higher output can be useful when you want more cooking power, while 700-watt models may be enough for snacks, drinks and reheating smaller portions.

Power is only one part of the choice. Presets, power levels, defrost controls and the fit of your dishes also affect how well a microwave works for your routine.

Which features are useful in a small microwave?

Useful features depend on what you cook and where the microwave sits. A mute function helps in a shared room, while multiple power settings and defrost options give you more control.

For simple repeat tasks, one-touch presets can save a few button presses. Many picks offer menus for popcorn, pizza, potatoes or beverages, while the Toshiba models add sensor or preset options.

A child safety lock can help prevent unintended use, especially in a shared household. Check how it engages and releases so the control suits the people who use the kitchen.

If you cook when others are sleeping or working nearby, choose a model with a mute function. The COMFEE', both Toshiba options and Chefman include one.

A broader guide can help if your counter has room for more options: compare the best white countertop microwave ovens for a light finish. If you prefer a particular brand, see our best Panasonic countertop microwave ovens.

What should you measure before buying?

Measure the counter space, the doorway or route to the kitchen, and the dishes you plan to heat. Check the microwave manual for clearance requirements before settling on a spot.

Tape out the cabinet's width and depth on your counter if you have limited room. Make sure cords and outlets are accessible, and leave room to lift hot food out without reaching over another appliance.

Next, measure the largest plate you regularly use. Compare it with the turntable diameter, then check whether the plate can rotate without touching the sides.

Think about your normal meals too. A 0.7 cu. ft. model works for smaller portions and dishes, while a 1.1 or 1.2 cu. ft. model gives more room if you often heat wider plates.

Which small countertop microwave should you choose?

Choose the COMFEE' for a compact 0.7 cu. ft. microwave with a mute function, ECO mode and common one-touch presets. Pick the 0.9 cu. ft.

Toshiba for a balance of capacity and 900 watts, or the 1.2 cu. ft. Toshiba if you need more interior room and sensor reheating.

For a particularly low cabinet, compare the Chefman's 9.53-inch height with your available clearance. If shallow counter depth is the constraint, check the Frigidaire's measurements, then confirm the manual's required clearance.

If you are still comparing capacities, our guide to how a countertop oven works explains how a countertop appliance cooks. You can also read what a countertop oven is to compare appliance types before deciding what belongs on your counter.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for quiet cooking in tight spaces

   COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for sensor reheating

   TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven

   9.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for simple preset cooking

   BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven

   9.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What size is a small countertop microwave?

Small countertop microwaves commonly have about 0.7 to 0.9 cu. ft. of capacity. Check the outside width, depth and height as well, since capacity alone doesn't tell you whether the cabinet fits your counter.

Measure the open door area and leave the clearance required by the model's manual.

Is a 0.7 cu. ft. microwave big enough?

A 0.7 cu. ft. microwave can suit drinks, snacks, leftovers and modest dishes. Its smaller interior may limit larger plates or wide containers, so measure the items you heat most often against the turntable and interior.

For bigger dishes, consider a 0.9 or 1.1 cu. ft. model if its footprint fits.

How much counter space does a compact microwave need?

Use the microwave's external width, depth and height to plan its spot, then follow the clearance instructions in its manual. For example, the COMFEE' measures 17.3 inches wide, 12.7 inches deep and 10.2 inches high.

Also account for the door swing, nearby outlets and space to lift food out safely.

Does a higher wattage microwave cook faster?

A microwave with more output watts can heat food faster under similar conditions, but the food, portion size and settings also matter. These picks range from 700 to 1000 watts of stated output power.

Use the package directions as a starting point, then check food temperature and add time in short steps.

What should I check before buying a small microwave?

Measure the counter space, including clearance and door swing, then compare it with the microwave's external dimensions. Check that your everyday dishes fit the turntable and that the controls, presets and power level options suit your routine.

If quiet operation matters, choose a model with a mute function.