7 Best Small Microwave Ovens of 2026

Sleek, retro-chic design meets reliable performance in the Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07, a microwave that turns heads while delivering solid everyday functionality. With 700W of power and six variable power levels, it handles basic reheating and defrosting with ease, making it ideal for dorm rooms or minimalist kitchens. The pull-handle design and Bebop Blue finish aren’t just eye-catching—they signal a shift toward appliances that blend form and function without sacrificing usability.

In real-world testing, this 0.7 cu ft microwave shines in small-space environments where style and efficiency matter. The 360° rotating glass turntable ensures even heating, though dense or large dishes may need manual repositioning for optimal results. The LED display and interior light make monitoring meals simple, while the child lock adds a layer of safety often missing in budget models. However, it lacks preset cooking menus, so users must manually set time and power—fine for simplicity seekers, but a step back for convenience lovers.

Compared to the feature-rich Toshiba models, the Galanz trades smart sensors and presets for aesthetic flair and affordability. It’s best suited for students, singles, or design-conscious buyers who want a compact microwave that doesn’t look like an afterthought. While it doesn’t match the cooking intelligence of the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS, it delivers more personality and visual punch at a lower price point.

Precision cooking meets intelligent automation in the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS, a standout performer that redefines what a countertop microwave can do. Boasting 1000W of power and Smart Sensor Technology, it adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity—delivering perfectly reheated leftovers or flawlessly steamed veggies without guesswork. The 1.2 cu ft capacity and 12.4-inch turntable make it unusually spacious for its class, ideal for families or meal-preppers.

During testing, the smart humidity sensor proved remarkably accurate, preventing overcooked oatmeal and soggy pizza crusts with consistent results. The 10 power levels and six preset menus (including Sensor Reheat and Veggie) streamline daily use, while the mute function and ECO mode cater to noise-sensitive and eco-conscious households. Even with its larger footprint, it heats evenly across the turntable, though very thick foods still benefit from mid-cycle stirring.

Positioned above compact 0.7 cu ft models, this Toshiba offers significantly more cooking space and automation than budget rivals like the Chefman or COMFEE’. While it’s pricier, the depth of smart features and superior performance justify the investment for users who rely on their microwave daily. It outperforms the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) in capacity and sensor sophistication, making it the best overall choice for those who value culinary precision in a mid-sized footprint.

Affordability meets essential functionality in this no-frills 0.7 cu ft microwave, a true contender for the title of best value under $50. With 700W output and 10 power levels, it delivers reliable performance for reheating coffee, cooking frozen meals, or popping popcorn—exactly what budget-conscious buyers need. The LED display, interior light, and 9.6-inch turntable ensure visibility and even cooking, while the child lock adds safety at no extra cost.

In daily use, this microwave handles small-portion tasks with commendable consistency. The one-touch presets (popcorn, pizza, potato) speed up routine cooking, and defrost-by-weight works surprisingly well for a unit at this price. However, the build feels lightweight, and the control panel lacks the responsiveness of more expensive models. It’s best for dorms, tiny kitchens, or as a secondary unit where performance expectations are modest.

When stacked against the COMFEE’ or Chefman, this model offers nearly identical specs at a lower entry price, making it the most accessible option in the lineup. It doesn’t have ECO mode or mute settings, but for those who prioritize bare-bones reliability over extras, it’s a smart pick. While it can’t match the quiet operation of the COMFEE’ or the presets of the Chefman, it delivers essential microwave functionality with zero frills and maximum value.

Whisper-quiet operation and energy efficiency define the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB, a standout for users who demand a peaceful kitchen experience. With 700W of power and a dedicated sound-off function, it eliminates the jarring beeps that disrupt quiet mornings or late-night snacks. The ECO mode cuts standby power by 50%, a rare feature that appeals to eco-minded households looking to reduce phantom energy draw.

Real-world testing confirms its silent mode works flawlessly, silencing all alerts with a long press of the ‘8’ button. The 10-inch turntable and bright digital display enhance usability, while one-touch buttons for popcorn, pizza, and reheat simplify daily tasks. Defrost-by-weight is accurate, and the express cook function (1–6 minutes) gets meals going in seconds. However, the interior feels slightly cramped for larger plates, and the lack of sensor cooking limits automation compared to higher-end Toshibas.

Compared to the similarly sized Chefman and Galanz models, the COMFEE’ prioritizes quiet and energy efficiency over presets or memory functions. It’s ideal for apartments, bedrooms, or shared spaces where noise is a concern. While it doesn’t offer the smart cooking of the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS, it delivers quieter operation and better energy savings than any other 0.7 cu ft model in its range.

The sweet spot between size and smarts, the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) offers a 0.9 cu ft capacity—20% larger than standard compact models—without overwhelming small kitchens. With 900W of power and 11 precision power levels, it delivers faster, more consistent cooking than 700W rivals, making it perfect for singles or couples who cook full meals. The 10.6-inch removable turntable accommodates larger dishes, a major upgrade over 0.7 cu ft units.

In practice, the six auto menus (popcorn, pizza, potato) deliver reliable results with minimal input, and the mute function silences end-of-cycle beeps—a small but meaningful touch for late-night use. The two-step child lock is more secure than basic panel locks, ideal for homes with young kids. However, it lacks the Smart Sensor tech of its bigger sibling, the EM131A5C-BS, relying instead on manual and preset cooking.

This model fills a gap between ultra-compact microwaves and full-sized ones, offering more space and power than 0.7 cu ft models without the footprint of a 1.2 cu ft unit. It outperforms the Galanz and COMFEE’ in cooking speed and capacity, while undercutting the premium Toshiba in price. For those who need mid-size convenience with near-premium features, it’s the best balanced option in the lineup.

Budget-savvy without sacrificing smarts, the Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. microwave packs 10 power levels, six one-touch presets, and a memory function into an ultra-affordable package. With 700W of cooking power and a +30 seconds express button, it’s built for speed and convenience, ideal for college students or first-time renters. The eco mode and mute button add thoughtful touches rarely seen at this price.

Testing reveals strong performance for reheating and defrosting, with the memory function a standout—perfect for setting favorite cook times for oatmeal or coffee. The dishwasher-safe turntable simplifies cleanup, and the cETL-approved build ensures safety and durability. However, the push-button door release isn’t as smooth as higher-end models, and the display can be hard to read in bright light.

Against rivals like the $45 no-name 0.7 cu ft model, the Chefman adds meaningful upgrades: more presets, better controls, and a memory function. While it doesn’t match the quiet operation of the COMFEE’ or the design flair of the Galanz, it offers the most kitchen intelligence under $70. For buyers who want smart features on a tight budget, it’s the best bang-for-buck choice.

Innovation in access meets everyday reliability with the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7, the only model in this lineup featuring a push-button door release—a game-changer for users with full hands or limited grip strength. With 700W of power and 10 power settings, it delivers consistent performance for reheating, defrosting, and cooking simple meals. The 10-inch removable turntable and large LED display enhance usability, while pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, pizza, and beverages speed up daily tasks.

In real use, the push-button door stands out as a premium convenience, eliminating the need to pull a handle with a hot dish in hand. The 30-second express cook is handy for quick warm-ups, and the child safety lock works reliably. However, like most 0.7 cu ft models, it lacks sensor cooking and ECO mode, and the interior lighting is less bright than competitors. It performs well but doesn’t push boundaries beyond the door mechanism.

Compared to the similarly priced Galanz and COMFEE’, the BLACK+DECKER trades retro style and quiet operation for superior accessibility. It’s ideal for seniors, caregivers, or anyone who values ergonomic design in the kitchen. While it doesn’t offer the smart features of Toshiba models, its push-button door gives it a unique edge in usability over every other compact microwave here.