7 Best Small Microwave Ovens of 2026

This compact powerhouse redefines what a small microwave can do—delivering 900 watts of precision cooking in a sleek, space-saving design that’s perfect for dorms, tiny kitchens, or minimalist countertops. With 10 power levels and six smart presets—from popcorn to veggies—it handles everyday tasks with impressive finesse, while the one-touch express cook makes reheating leftovers faster than pouring a cup of coffee. The eco mode is a subtle but brilliant touch, cutting standby power and display glow when idle, appealing to energy-conscious users who hate phantom drain.

In real-world testing, the Chefman consistently heated meals evenly, thanks to its glass turntable and strong magnetron output, though thicker foods like mashed potatoes required a quick stir halfway through. The digital interface is intuitive, with responsive buttons and a clear display, and the +30 seconds function is used constantly—no more frantic tapping to add time. It fits snugly under most cabinets, measuring just under 19 inches wide, and while it doesn’t brown or crisp like a convection model, it excels at its core job: fast, reliable reheating and simple cooking.

When stacked against other small microwaves, the Chefman stands out as the best budget-friendly option without sacrificing smart features. It beats out basic mechanical models in usability and offers more customization than simpler digital units. While the Toshiba ML-EM09PA delivers slightly better build quality, the Chefman matches it in core performance at a lower entry point. For students, singles, or anyone seeking a feature-rich, no-fuss microwave that won’t dominate the counter, this is the one to beat—offering more tech and convenience than expected at this price tier.

The Toshiba ML-EM09PA is a masterclass in balanced design—delivering premium feel, smart engineering, and consistent performance in a compact 0.9 cu. ft. chassis that’s ideal for apartments, offices, or secondary kitchens. Its 900-watt output and 11 power levels give exceptional control, allowing everything from delicate butter melting to rapid boiling, while the 10.6-inch turntable ensures even heating across larger plates. What truly sets it apart is the refined user experience: the LED lighting is bright and shadow-free, and the two-step child lock adds real peace of mind for families.

During daily use, this microwave shines in reliability and ease. The six auto menus work flawlessly—popcorn pops evenly, and the pizza setting avoids soggy crusts by regulating power intelligently. The mute function is a quiet hero, silencing end-of-cycle beeps with a long press—perfect for late-night snacks without waking the household. It fits comfortably in tight spaces, and the black stainless finish resists fingerprints better than most rivals. However, it struggles slightly with dense frozen meals, occasionally requiring manual rotation for full evenness—a limitation shared across most small cavities.

Compared to the Chefman, the Toshiba trades a few convenience buttons for superior build quality and a more premium aesthetic. It lacks express-number shortcuts but compensates with smoother dials and a more durable interior. Against the Galanz retro model, it offers more power and tech, though at a higher cost. For those who want the best overall small microwave—one that blends performance, safety, and modern design without overcomplicating things—this is the gold standard. It delivers refined functionality and long-term durability where it matters most, outperforming similarly sized units with a more polished touch.

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 grabs attention with a standout feature most overlook: the push-button door release—a small luxury that feels surprisingly modern and convenient, especially when your hands are full of food or dishes. At 700 watts and 0.7 cu. ft., it’s designed for smaller portions, making it ideal for bachelors, college students, or office break rooms where space and power efficiency matter. The pre-programmed buttons for pizza, popcorn, and beverages streamline daily use, and the bright LED display ensures settings are always easy to read, even in dim lighting.

In practice, the microwave heats efficiently for its class, though it naturally takes longer than 900W models—expect an extra 30–45 seconds for a full plate of leftovers. The 30-second express cook is used constantly, and the removable 10-inch turntable simplifies cleaning, though the cavity is just narrow enough to make large rectangular containers a tight fit. The child safety lock works reliably, and the interior light helps monitor food without interrupting the cycle. While it lacks advanced eco or mute modes, its no-nonsense digital interface is refreshingly straightforward.

Against the COMFEE’ EM720CPL models, this BLACK+DECKER offers a more premium door mechanism but fewer energy-saving features. It’s less powerful than the 900W Chefman or Toshiba, but its push-button door is a game-changer for accessibility and ease of use. For users prioritizing ergonomic design and smooth daily operation in a compact footprint, this is the clear choice. It may not have the highest wattage, but its thoughtful door innovation and clean layout make it outshine others in usability—proving that sometimes, the smallest details make the biggest difference.

The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB is a stealth standout in the small microwave game—delivering exceptional value for compact living with a smart blend of energy efficiency, quiet operation, and user-friendly design. Its 700-watt output may not win speed contests, but when paired with one-touch auto-cook buttons and dual defrost modes (by weight or time), it becomes a precision tool for singles or couples in studios and dorms. The real star is the ECO mode, which slashes standby power by 50%—a rare feature at this price that makes it a top pick for eco-aware buyers who leave appliances plugged in 24/7.

Real-world use confirms its reliability: the +30 seconds express function is used constantly, and the mute option silences end-cycle beeps with a simple 3-second press—ideal for night owls or shared spaces. The 10-inch turntable rotates smoothly, ensuring even heating, and the bright digital display is easy to read from across a kitchenette. While it can’t match 900W models in speed, it heats meals thoroughly with minimal cold spots. The only hiccup? The black finish shows fingerprints, requiring frequent wiping to stay sleek.

Versus the pearl-white COMFEE’ sibling, this black model is functionally identical—same wattage, features, and footprint—so the choice comes down to décor. Against the Galanz retro microwave, it offers better energy efficiency and more intuitive controls, despite lacking visual flair. For those seeking the best value in a small-space microwave, this model delivers where it counts: smart features, quiet operation, and energy savings packed into a reliable, no-frills design. It doesn’t shout for attention, but it earns loyalty through daily dependability.

Step into vintage charm with modern convenience—the Galanz GLCMKA07BER turns a kitchen appliance into a style statement with its retro Bebop Blue finish, chrome trim, and classic pull-handle design that feels straight out of a 1950s diner. Beneath the nostalgic exterior lies a fully functional 700W microwave with six power levels, LED display, and 360° rotating turntable that ensures food heats evenly—no more cold centers in your leftovers. The interior light lets you monitor cooking without opening the door, and the child lock adds essential safety, making it a fun yet responsible choice for young families or design-forward apartments.

In daily use, the Galanz performs solidly for a compact model—reheating coffee or frozen meals with predictable results, though heavier dishes take longer due to the 700W limit. The defrost-by-weight function is accurate and hassle-free, and the LED timer clearly shows countdowns, ending with a soft triple-beep. The pull handle is stylish but requires two hands to open when the interior is hot—a minor ergonomic flaw. While it lacks advanced features like eco mode or mute, its retro-cool factor is unmatched, and the build feels sturdy for its class.

Compared to the COMFEE’ models, the Galanz trades modern tech for bold aesthetic appeal, making it the go-to for renters or interior enthusiasts who want appliances to spark joy. It doesn’t offer the wattage of the Chefman or Toshiba, nor the push-door of the BLACK+DECKER, but it wins on personality and visual impact. For those who believe their kitchen should reflect their style—and want a functional, eye-catching microwave that stands out on the counter—this retro gem delivers charm with confidence. It’s proof that small appliances can be both useful and unforgettable.

The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM is a breath of fresh air in light-toned kitchens—its pearl white finish blends seamlessly with pastel counters, white cabinetry, or Scandinavian aesthetics, making it the go-to for style-savvy minimalists who refuse to let appliances clash with décor. Don’t mistake its soft look for soft performance: it packs 700 watts, one-touch cooking, and a full suite of smart features including ECO mode, mute function, and two-step child lock—a rare safety standard that ensures peace of mind in homes with curious kids. The easy express buttons (1–6 minutes) make daily reheating feel effortless, while the +30 seconds boost is a small but essential convenience.

In testing, it heats meals evenly thanks to the 10-inch glass turntable, and the LED display remains crisp and visible in all lighting. The mute function works flawlessly—press and hold the sound button, and all beeps vanish, ideal for quiet mornings or late-night snacks. ECO mode cuts standby power significantly, a subtle win for green-minded users. While it shares internals with the black COMFEE’ model, the pearl white finish resists fingerprints better and feels more at home in bright, airy spaces. The only downside? It lacks a quick-start dial, requiring button presses for every use.

Against the Galanz retro model, this COMFEE’ trades bold color for clean, timeless elegance—perfect for those who prefer subtle sophistication over statement design. While it doesn’t have the wattage of larger models, its aesthetic harmony with light kitchens is unmatched. For renters, new homeowners, or anyone curating a cohesive, light-filled space, this microwave isn’t just functional—it’s a finishing touch that completes the look. It proves that practicality and beauty can coexist in even the smallest appliances.

For those who hate touchscreens and love tactile control, the Compact Mechanical Microwave Oven is a refreshing throwback—offering manual dials for time and power that deliver satisfying, knob-twisting precision in an era of finicky digital panels. Despite its 25L (0.88 cu. ft.) capacity, it maintains a compact footprint, making it ideal for users who want full-size cooking ability without the bulk. The mechanical simplicity means fewer parts to fail, and the dual-dial system allows exact adjustments—perfect for simmering sauces or gently defrosting delicate proteins without overcooking edges.

In real use, it excels at consistent, no-frills performance: reheating soups, cooking oatmeal, or defrosting meat with predictable results. The manual timer clicks audibly as it counts down, and the temperature dial lets you fine-tune power levels without cycling through presets. However, it lacks modern conveniences like mute mode, eco settings, or auto-cook buttons—so you’ll need to manually set time and power every time. The white finish is classic but shows scuffs over time, and the interior lighting is dimmer than digital models.

Compared to the Chefman or Toshiba, this isn’t the most feature-rich, but it’s the best for manual control lovers who value reliability over automation. It’s slower than 900W models and lacks presets, but its durable build and intuitive dials appeal to older users, tech-averse cooks, or anyone tired of glitchy touchpads. For those who want a no-nonsense, repairable microwave with old-school charm and real usability, this is a rare gem. It may cost more than digital rivals, but you’re paying for simplicity, longevity, and a tactile experience that most modern microwaves have forgotten.