8 Best Compact Countertop Microwaves of 2026

This compact powerhouse redefines what small-space cooking can achieve. With 950 watts of cooking power and a 1.1 cubic foot capacity, it strikes a rare balance between countertop efficiency and meal-prep capability—perfect for singles, couples, or compact kitchens where every inch matters. The glass turntable ensures even heating, while the six auto-cook presets take the guesswork out of reheating pizza or cooking frozen veggies, making it ideal for users who want reliable performance without complexity.

In real-world testing, the GE microwave shines in consistency and usability. It handles everything from steaming vegetables to reheating leftovers with minimal hotspots, thanks to the rotating turntable and well-distributed wattage. The weight and time defrost functions are particularly effective, gently thawing meat without cooking the edges—a common pain point in lower-powered models. While it doesn’t offer sensor cooking or mute options, its simple interface and audible alerts make it accessible for all ages, including older adults or college students in dorms.

Compared to smaller 0.7 cu ft models like the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7, this GE unit offers noticeably more interior space, accommodating larger plates and taller containers. It’s not as feature-rich as the Toshiba smart sensor models, but it delivers where it counts: consistent power, intuitive controls, and smart space utilization. For those upgrading from a cramped mini-microwave but unwilling to sacrifice counter real estate, this model offers a sweet spot of capacity and convenience—outperforming budget picks while remaining simpler and more reliable than high-tech alternatives.

Step into the future of countertop cooking with a microwave that thinks for you. The Toshiba EM131A5C-BS leverages Smart Sensor Technology, which automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on real-time humidity detection, eliminating the guesswork that plagues most reheating attempts. Backed by 1000 watts of power and a spacious 1.2 cubic foot cavity, this model is a game-changer for busy households that demand precision without effort. Its 12 auto menus and 10 power levels deliver restaurant-grade control in a kitchen staple.

During testing, the sensor reheat function proved exceptional, reviving cold pasta and pizza to near-fresh quality without drying them out—a common flaw in even mid-range microwaves. The 12.4-inch removable turntable accommodates large dishes, while the ECO mode cuts standby power, appealing to eco-conscious users. It excels at multitasking: defrosting by weight, simmering sauces on low power, or boiling water rapidly. However, the lack of a push-button door release means manual opening, and the control panel beeps loudly unless muted via a hidden button combo.

Positioned above basic models like the Emerson MW7302B, this Toshiba offers smarter automation and superior cooking intelligence, rivaling built-in units at a fraction of the cost. While it’s pricier than entry-level options, the added convenience of sensor cooking and mute functionality justifies the investment for tech-savvy users. Compared to the GE 1.1 cu ft model, it trades a bit of simplicity for far greater culinary precision and energy-saving features, making it the top pick for those who treat their microwave as a true smart kitchen partner rather than just a reheating box.

Don’t let the ultra-compact size fool you—this BLACK+DECKER packs a surprising punch for tiny spaces. At just 0.7 cubic feet, it’s tailor-made for dorm rooms, RVs, or minimalist kitchens, yet still delivers 700 watts of adjustable power across 10 settings, allowing everything from gentle warming to rapid reheating. The push-button door release is a standout convenience, offering smooth one-handed access—a rare feature at this size and price. With pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, pizza, and beverages, it’s built for speed and simplicity.

In daily use, the microwave handles small meals and snacks with ease, though larger dishes or family-sized portions will hit spatial limits. The 10-inch glass turntable reduces hotspots, but the lower wattage means longer cook times compared to 900W+ models—expect an extra 30–60 seconds for full reheating. It lacks sensor cooking or eco mode, but the 30-second express function and child safety lock add practical value. While it struggles with dense frozen foods, it excels at quick tasks like melting butter or heating soup.

When stacked against the Chefman B0DY95T5HB, this BLACK+DECKER offers a more premium build and push-button door, justifying its slightly higher cost. It’s less advanced than the Toshiba ML-EM09PA(SS), but for users prioritizing small footprint and ease of access, this model hits a sweet spot. It’s not the most powerful or feature-rich, but as a no-fuss, space-slim solution, it outperforms many budget rivals in ergonomics and reliability—making it a top contender for ultra-compact living where every button press should count.

This no-nonsense workhorse proves that affordability doesn’t mean compromise. The Emerson MW7302B delivers 700 watts of reliable power in a sleek 0.7 cu ft chassis, making it perfect for students, bachelors, or secondary kitchens. Its touch controls and large LED display offer a modern feel, while the 6 auto-cook menus streamline everyday tasks like reheating pizza or cooking frozen veggies. What truly sets it apart is the 99-minute digital timer, giving users unmatched control over long cooking or defrosting sessions.

Real-world testing reveals solid performance for basic needs: it reheats leftovers evenly, defrosts by weight accurately, and handles small meals without issue. The memory function is a quiet hero, letting users save favorite settings—ideal for weekly meal prep. However, the lack of mute mode means end-of-cycle beeps can be jarring in quiet environments, and the interior lighting is dim, making it hard to monitor food in low light. It’s not designed for large families, but for individual or light use, it’s impressively capable.

Compared to the Chefman B0DY95T5HB, it offers better build quality and a more responsive control panel, despite similar specs. While both run at 700W, the Emerson’s memory and kitchen timer functions add real utility. Against the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB, it lacks ECO mode but compensates with greater time flexibility and preset reliability. For those seeking the most functional budget microwave without gimmicks, this model delivers maximum value through thoughtful, user-first design—a true underdog in the compact category.

Meet the budget king that refuses to skimp on modern essentials. The Chefman B0DY95T5HB packs 700 watts, 10 power levels, and a mute button into a sleek 0.7 cu ft frame, making it the most feature-complete entry-level microwave on the market. Its one-touch express cook and +30 seconds boost turn quick snacks into instant gratification, while the ECO mode slashes standby power—a rare win for energy-conscious buyers. The cETL-approved safety tech ensures durability, even in high-use environments.

In practice, it handles daily tasks with quiet efficiency: popcorn pops evenly, beverages heat without boiling over, and the mute function is a blessing for late-night use in shared spaces. The 6 presets are well-calibrated, though not as precise as sensor-based models. The interior is easy to wipe down, and the turntable is dishwasher-safe, a small but meaningful perk. However, the audio cues are loud before muting, and the plastic finish feels less premium than stainless steel rivals.

Stacked against the Emerson MW7302B, it offers superior noise control and energy savings, despite similar pricing. Compared to the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB, it matches features but adds dishwasher-safe cleaning convenience. While it can’t match the power of 900W models, it maximizes every dollar by including mute, eco, and safety features often reserved for pricier units. For renters, students, or anyone needing a quiet, efficient, and affordable microwave, this Chefman delivers exceptional bang for the buck—proving that budget doesn’t mean barebones.

This precision-tuned compact marvel earns its title as the best overall with a masterful blend of power, size, and smart features. At 900 watts and 0.9 cubic feet, it offers more cooking muscle than 700W models while staying compact enough for dorms or studio apartments. The 11 power levels and sensor-based defrost provide granular control, and the mute function—activated with a simple long-press—eliminates disruptive beeps, a lifesaver for shared living spaces. The LED lighting brightly illuminates the cavity, making monitoring food effortless.

Testing confirms its superiority in versatility: it reheats meals faster than 700W units, defrosts evenly by weight, and handles 10-inch pizzas with room to spare thanks to the 10.6-inch turntable. The 6 auto-menus are responsive, though not as advanced as Toshiba’s humidity-sensing models. It lacks ECO mode, but its efficient power use and durable stainless build make it a long-term investment. The two-step child lock adds peace of mind without complicating adult use.

Against the BLACK+DECKER 0.9 cu ft model, it offers more power levels and a brighter interior, while both share similar capacity and presets. Compared to the GE 1.1 cu ft model, it’s slightly smaller but more refined in controls and noise management. For users who want the perfect midpoint between size, power, and modern features, this Toshiba delivers best-in-class balance—outperforming budget picks in performance and premium models in value, making it the smartest all-around choice for most households.

Engineered for effortless daily use, this BLACK+DECKER model makes one-touch simplicity its crown jewel. With 900 watts and a 0.9 cu ft interior, it fits 10-inch plates comfortably, striking a balance between compact size and family-friendly utility. The one-touch start eliminates menu diving—just press once to begin cooking at full power—ideal for users who value speed over customization. Add in 10 power levels, memory function, and child lock, and you’ve got a microwave built for real-world convenience.

In real-life scenarios, it excels at quick reheating and frozen meal prep. The memory function saves favorite settings—great for reheating coffee at the same time every morning—while the 6 auto-menus handle common foods reliably. The two-step child lock is intuitive and secure. However, it lacks mute mode, so end-cycle beeps can be intrusive, and the interior lighting is average, not as bright as the Toshiba ML-EM09PA(SS). It’s not the most advanced, but for busy parents or office kitchens, simplicity wins.

Compared to the Toshiba ML-EM09PA(SS), it offers similar capacity and power but misses out on mute functionality and superior lighting. Against the GE 1.1 cu ft model, it’s slightly smaller but more user-friendly for repeat tasks. While it doesn’t have sensor cooking or ECO mode, its focus on ease and memory recall makes it a standout for routine-heavy households. For those who want fast, reliable performance without learning curves, this BLACK+DECKER delivers frictionless cooking at a mid-tier price—a quiet champion of daily efficiency.

This eco-conscious compact redefines efficiency in small-space cooking. The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB delivers 700 watts of power in a sleek 0.7 cu ft body, but its true innovation lies in ECO mode, which reduces standby power by up to 50%—a rare feature that appeals to green-minded users. The sound on/off function doubles as a mute button, silencing alerts for midnight snacks or baby bottles, while the one-touch express cooking makes daily use effortless. It’s built for energy-smart simplicity.

In performance, it handles standard reheating and defrosting with reliability, though cooking times are slightly longer than 900W models. The 6 auto-cook buttons are well-labeled and responsive, and the +30 seconds function adds flexibility. The interior light and digital display enhance usability, but the turntable is smaller, limiting plate size. It doesn’t offer memory storage like the Emerson or Chefman, but its energy-saving focus sets it apart.

When compared to the Chefman B0DY95T5HB, both share mute and eco features, but COMFEE’ trades dishwasher-safe cleaning for a slightly more refined interface. Against the Emerson MW7302B, it wins on energy efficiency despite similar wattage. For users prioritizing low environmental impact and quiet operation, this model is unmatched in its class. While not the most powerful, it offers the best balance of eco-performance and convenience—a quiet leader in sustainable kitchen design.