8 Best Small Countertop Microwaves of 2026

Sleek retro flair meets reliable performance in the Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07, a microwave that turns heads while delivering consistent cooking results. With 700W of power and six variable power levels, it handles everyday reheating and defrosting with ease, making it ideal for small kitchens or dorm rooms where style and function must coexist. The pull-handle design and Bebop Blue finish give it a vintage charm unmatched by standard models, appealing to users who want their appliances to reflect personality—without sacrificing core functionality like even 360° heating via a rotating glass turntable.

In real-world use, this compact 0.7 cu ft microwave shines in basic tasks: reheating coffee, popping popcorn, or thawing frozen meals. The LED display clearly shows countdown time, and the interior light lets you monitor food without interrupting the cycle. However, it lacks advanced presets or mute options, so late-night use can be noisy with its three-beep finish alert. While the child lock adds safety, the controls are simple rather than intuitive, requiring a slight learning curve for first-time users.

Compared to the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM, the Galanz trades some convenience features—like one-touch auto-cook and eco mode—for standout aesthetics. It doesn’t offer silent operation or energy-saving standby modes, but if your priority is a microwave that doubles as kitchen décor, this model stands out. For those seeking a stylish, no-frills workhorse that cooks evenly and looks fantastic doing it, the Galanz delivers where it counts—especially when compared to more utilitarian white-box models.

The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM is a masterclass in balancing affordability, functionality, and quiet operation—making it a top pick for budget-conscious buyers who still want modern conveniences. Its 700W output and 0.7 cu ft capacity are standard for small spaces, but what sets it apart is the mute function, which silences all beeps with a 3-second press—perfect for apartments or late-night snacks. Add to that an ECO mode that cuts standby power by 50%, and you’ve got a microwave that’s as energy-efficient as it is user-friendly.

During testing, the one-touch express cooking buttons (1–6 minutes) made reheating effortless, while the auto-cook presets for popcorn, pizza, and beverages delivered surprisingly consistent results. The two-step child lock meets updated safety standards, offering peace of mind in homes with young kids. However, the interior lighting is dimmer than competitors’, and the turntable, though functional, feels flimsy under heavier dishes. It performs best with lightweight containers and moderate loads—push beyond that, and heating becomes slightly uneven.

When stacked against the Chefman B0DY95T5HB, this COMFEE’ model offers nearly identical features at a slightly higher price point but with a cleaner finish and more reliable build quality. It’s not as powerful or spacious as the Toshiba ML-EM09PA(BS), but for users prioritizing quiet, energy-efficient operation in a compact footprint, it’s an outstanding value. If you want essential smart touches without overspending, this pearl-white performer hits the sweet spot.

Push-button convenience redefined—the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 stands out with its effortless door release mechanism, a small but game-changing feature that elevates daily usability. Backed by 700W power and 10 precision power levels, this stainless steel microwave offers greater control than most entry-level models, allowing you to gently warm sauces or blast through leftovers with confidence. The 30-second express cook and pre-programmed buttons (popcorn, pizza, beverage) streamline routine tasks, while the large LED display ensures readability from any angle.

In practice, the 10” glass turntable promotes even heating across most meal types, though dense foods like baked potatoes may require mid-cycle rotation for full doneness. The push-button door is smooth and reliable, eliminating the need to grip and pull—a plus for users with limited hand strength. That said, the beeps cannot be fully silenced, which disrupts quiet environments, and the lack of an eco mode means it draws more standby power than rivals like the COMFEE’. Still, its UL-approved safety rating and clear control layout make it a dependable choice for kitchens demanding simplicity and reliability.

Versus the Farberware 0.7 cu ft model, this BLACK+DECKER offers more power settings and a superior door mechanism, though both share similar capacities and wattage. For users who value ergonomic design and responsive controls over flashy extras, this microwave delivers a polished experience. It’s built for hassle-free daily use, outperforming cheaper models in durability and ease of access.

With energy-smart engineering at its core, the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB earns its title as the most eco-conscious small microwave in its class. Its ECO mode slashes standby power by 50%, making it a standout for environmentally aware households or those leaving the microwave plugged in 24/7. Combined with 700W performance and a 0.7 cu ft cavity, it handles everyday cooking with quiet efficiency, while the mute function lets you operate it silently—ideal for late-night use without disturbing others.

Real-world testing reveals quick response from one-touch express cooking (1–6 minutes) and dependable auto-defrost by weight or time, though the presets lack fine-tuning—popcorn sometimes overcooks if not monitored. The bright digital display and interior light enhance visibility, and the 10-inch turntable rotates smoothly under moderate loads. However, the black finish shows fingerprints easily, and the buttons can feel stiff over time. It’s best suited for light to moderate use—think dorm rooms, offices, or secondary kitchens.

Compared to the Chefman B0DY95T5HB, this model trades memory programming for superior energy management and a slightly sturdier feel. While neither offers large capacity, the COMFEE’ wins on long-term efficiency and silent operation. If you want a low-impact, high-convenience microwave that respects both your peace and the planet, this black gem is hard to beat.

Power meets precision in the Toshiba ML-EM09PA(BS), a compact microwave that punches well above its weight with 900W output and a spacious 0.9 cu ft interior—making it the best overall choice for those upgrading from smaller 0.7 cu ft models. The 11 power levels allow granular control, whether you’re simmering oatmeal or reheating stir-fry, while the 6 auto menus (pizza, popcorn, potato) deliver consistent results with minimal input. The 10.6-inch removable turntable accommodates larger plates, and the mute mode—activated by holding the ‘8’ button—eliminates end-of-cycle beeps, a rare and welcome feature.

In real-world use, it heats food faster and more evenly than 700W competitors, thanks to its higher wattage and optimized cavity design. The easy defrost function (by weight or time) thaws meat uniformly, and the digital display is crisp and readable. However, its larger footprint may not fit in ultra-tight spaces, and the two-step child lock requires a slightly awkward sequence to activate. Still, for users who want maximum performance in a near-compact form, this Toshiba excels across scenarios—from dorms to studio apartments.

Stacked against the GE B0D296FX8K, both offer 0.9 cu ft and 900W, but the Toshiba includes mute mode and more power levels, giving it a functional edge despite a lower price. It outperforms smaller 700W units in speed and versatility, making it ideal for busy individuals who cook daily. When performance, capacity, and quiet operation matter most, this model justifies its premium with every use.

The Chefman B0DY95T5HB is a budget-savvy powerhouse that packs premium features into an affordable, sleek black frame—making it the go-to for cost-conscious buyers who refuse to compromise on functionality. Despite its 700W output, it offers 10 power levels, six cooking presets, and a memory function that lets you save favorite settings—a rarity at this price. The mute button silences beeps instantly, and ECO mode reduces energy waste, appealing to eco-minded users on a tight budget.

In daily use, the one-touch express cook (1–6 minutes) and +30 seconds boost make reheating intuitive, while the cETL-approved build ensures safety and longevity. The black finish wipes clean easily, and the dishwasher-safe turntable simplifies maintenance—key for messy kitchens. However, the buttons can feel shallow, and the interior light is dim, making it hard to see food in low-light settings. It’s best for light cooking tasks; heavy-duty use may expose its limitations.

Versus the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM, it offers memory programming and a bolder design at a lower cost, though COMFEE’ wins on brand consistency and slightly better fit/finish. For students, renters, or anyone needing a feature-rich, no-nonsense microwave under $70, the Chefman delivers exceptional value. It proves you don’t need to spend more to get smart features, quiet operation, and easy cleaning in one compact package.

The GE B0D296FX8K redefines what a compact yet spacious microwave can be, combining a 0.9 cu ft interior with a surprisingly space-saving footprint—ideal for apartment dwellers who need room to cook but not room to spare. Its 900W power heats food quickly and evenly, outperforming 700W models in both speed and consistency, while the 7 auto-cook settings (including reheat and frozen veggie) take the guesswork out of daily meals. The stainless steel design with black glass gives it a premium look that elevates any countertop.

Testing revealed excellent performance across reheating, defrosting, and beverage warming, with the glass turntable ensuring uniform results. The two-step child lock meets safety standards, and the kitchen timer adds versatility beyond microwave functions. However, it lacks a mute option, so end-of-cycle beeps can be jarring in quiet settings, and the ECO mode is missing, making it less efficient than similarly priced rivals. It’s built for reliability, not stealth.

Compared to the Toshiba ML-EM09PA(BS), both share 0.9 cu ft and 900W, but the GE falls short with fewer power levels and no silent mode. Still, its sleek design and dependable performance make it a strong contender for those prioritizing aesthetics and capacity over advanced features. If you want a high-wattage, stylish microwave that fits in tight spaces and cooks like a full-sized unit, this GE model delivers with confidence.

The Farberware 0.7 cu ft Microwave earns its title as the easiest to clean in its class, thanks to a smooth, stain-resistant interior and fingerprint-proof stainless finish that wipes clean with just a damp cloth—perfect for messy kitchens or shared spaces. Behind its practical exterior lies 700W of power, ten power levels, and six one-touch presets (pizza, popcorn, potato), offering solid functionality for reheating and light cooking. The LED display and interior light enhance usability, while the child safety lock adds essential protection.

In real-world use, it handles everyday tasks reliably, though heating isn’t as fast or even as 900W models. The defrost-by-weight feature works well for small portions, but larger items require manual adjustment. The turntable rotates smoothly, but the cavity feels cramped with oversized bowls. It’s best suited for light use—dorms, offices, or secondary kitchens—where cleanup ease trumps raw power.

Compared to the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7, both offer 700W and stainless finishes, but Farberware wins on cleanability and surface durability. While it lacks push-button door release or mute function, its low-maintenance design is unmatched. For users who hate scrubbing appliances, this Farberware model offers a no-hassle, dependable cooking experience in a compact, attractive package.