7 Best Small Space Microwaves of 2026

Whisper-quiet and packed with thoughtful features, the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB is a game-changer for noise-sensitive environments. Its standout mute function lets you disable all beeps—perfect for late-night snacks without disturbing others—while the ECO mode slashes standby power by 50%, making it a rare eco-conscious pick in the compact microwave market. With 700 watts of cooking power and intuitive one-touch presets for popcorn, pizza, and beverages, it balances simplicity and functionality for small kitchens or dorm rooms.

In real-world testing, this 0.7 cu.ft microwave heats food evenly thanks to the 10-inch turntable and consistent wattage delivery, though it struggles slightly with dense portions like thick lasagnas. The digital display is bright and legible, and the auto-cook functions deliver reliable results for common meals. However, the lack of multi-stage cooking limits advanced users who want to program a defrost-then-cook sequence. Still, for reheating leftovers or brewing a morning oatmeal bowl, it’s impressively efficient.

Compared to the Chefman model, the COMFEE’ trades a few power levels for superior quiet operation and energy-saving tech. It doesn’t have memory programming, but its silent mode and ECO functionality make it the top choice for apartments, offices, or shared living spaces. While others focus on presets, this unit wins with lifestyle-smart engineering—offering quieter performance and lower energy draw without sacrificing core usability.

Step into a vintage diner with the Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07, a retro-styled microwave that turns heads with its Bebop Blue finish and chrome pull handle. Beyond its nostalgic charm, it delivers solid 700W performance with six power levels and dual defrost options—by weight or time—making frozen meals easier to manage. The 360° rotating turntable ensures even heating, while the interior LED light lets you monitor food without breaking the seal. It’s a bold statement piece that doesn’t compromise on essential functionality.

During daily use, the LED display clearly shows countdowns, and the three-beep alert at the end of cooking is noticeable but not jarring. The compact 0.7 cu.ft cavity handles standard plates and mugs well, though thicker dishes can limit clearance under the ceiling. It reheats soups and leftovers reliably, but lacks express-cook shortcuts found on other models, requiring manual input for common tasks. The child lock works seamlessly, adding peace of mind in homes with young kids.

When stacked against the Nostalgia retro model, the Galanz offers a more vibrant color option and smoother handle design, though both share similar wattage and cavity size. It doesn’t have as many presets as the Farberware or Toshiba units, but its distinctive style and dependable core performance make it ideal for renters or design-focused kitchens. For those who want appliance personality without sacrificing reliability, this Galanz model brings retro flair with modern-day function.

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 redefines convenience with its push-button door release, a rare feature in compact microwaves that makes opening effortless—especially when hands are full. This 0.7 cu.ft, 700W unit combines practical design with reliable performance, offering 10 power levels and six pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, pizza, and more. The large LED display and removable turntable enhance usability, while the child safety lock adds a layer of security. It’s a no-nonsense workhorse built for small kitchens where ease of access matters.

In testing, the push-door mechanism proved smooth and durable, eliminating the need to grip a handle—ideal for users with limited hand strength. The 30-second express cook is handy for quick reheat cycles, and the turntable rotates quietly without wobbling. However, the interior lighting is dimmer than competitors, making it harder to see food during cooking. While it handles standard meals well, the lack of eco mode or mute function may disappoint those seeking energy savings or quiet operation.

Compared to the COMFEE’, it lacks silent operation but wins with its ergonomic door design and broader power control. It’s more functional than stylish, positioning itself as the go-to for users prioritizing accessibility and ease of use over aesthetics. If you value simple, intuitive operation with a thoughtful door mechanism, this BLACK+DECKER model offers better daily usability than many rivals—even if it doesn’t stand out visually.

The Chefman 0.7 cu.ft microwave delivers unbeatable bang for the buck, combining eco mode, mute function, and memory programming at a budget-friendly cost. With 700 watts and 10 power levels, it offers precise control for everything from melting chocolate to reheating stir-fry. The one-touch express cook and six presets streamline daily use, while the memory function lets you save favorite settings—a rare perk in this price range. It’s the smart choice for students or minimalists who want advanced features without clutter.

Real-world tests show quick response times and consistent heating, thanks to the 10-inch turntable and well-distributed wattage. The exterior wipes clean easily, and the dishwasher-safe turntable simplifies maintenance—ideal for messy kitchens. The mute button silences end-of-cycle beeps completely, a plus for shared spaces. However, the digital display lacks backlighting, making it hard to read in low light, and the build feels slightly lightweight compared to pricier models.

Against the COMFEE’, it matches on eco and mute features but adds memory programming for personalized shortcuts. While the Toshiba offers more power, this Chefman model wins on feature density and affordability. It’s the best value for users who want smart, customizable cooking in a compact footprint—offering more tech for less money than nearly any other small microwave.

True to its name, the Farberware 0.7 cu.ft microwave excels in effortless maintenance, thanks to its smooth, wipe-clean interior and smudge-resistant exterior. Designed for real-life messes, it combines 700 watts of power with ten adjustable levels and six one-touch presets—including popcorn, potato, and pizza—for hassle-free cooking. The defrost-by-weight function is accurate and intuitive, making frozen ingredients ready faster. It’s a practical, no-frills appliance built for busy households where cleaning time is as important as cooking time.

In daily use, the LED display is clear and the interior light bright enough to monitor food without opening the door. The turntable rotates smoothly, though it can be tricky to remove for cleaning compared to the Chefman model. Multi-stage cooking isn’t supported, limiting advanced users, but most will appreciate the straightforward interface. It heats evenly for a compact unit, though dense items like casseroles may need mid-cycle stirring.

Compared to the Nostalgia model, it offers a more durable feel and better cleaning surface, though it lacks retro flair. It doesn’t have eco mode or mute functions, but its easy-clean design and reliable presets make it ideal for kitchens where low maintenance is a top priority. For those who hate scrubbing appliances, this Farberware unit provides the simplest cleanup experience in its class—without sacrificing core cooking performance.

The Nostalgia 0.7 cu.ft microwave proves that affordability doesn’t mean compromise, offering 12 pre-programmed settings and a delay timer at the lowest price point in the lineup. Its aqua finish and chrome accents add retro charm, while the LED display keeps time and settings clearly visible. With 700 watts of power and a rotating carousel, it handles everyday tasks like reheating coffee or cooking frozen meals with ease. It’s the go-to pick for renters or first-time buyers who want style and function on a tight budget.

In real-world use, the delay start feature is a standout—perfect for setting meals to cook while you’re away. The 12 presets cover everything from oatmeal to pizza, reducing guesswork. However, the plastic build feels less durable than metal-clad rivals, and the door hinge lacks the sturdiness of higher-end models. The turntable works well but can wobble at high speeds, and there’s no mute option to silence end-of-cycle beeps.

When compared to the Galanz retro model, it offers more presets but less robust construction. It lacks eco mode and memory functions found on the Chefman, but its delay timer and vibrant design give it an edge for value-focused buyers. For those seeking the most features for the least cost, this Nostalgia microwave delivers surprising versatility in a stylish, budget-friendly package.

The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) stands tall as the most powerful and feature-rich option, boasting 900 watts, 11 power levels, and a spacious 0.9 cu.ft cavity—a significant upgrade over standard 0.7 cu.ft models. Its 10.6-inch removable turntable accommodates larger plates, while the six auto menus and one-touch start simplify daily use. The two-step child lock adds extra safety, and the mute function silences beeps with a long press—key for quiet homes. It’s engineered for performance, making it the top all-around performer.

In testing, the extra wattage delivers noticeably faster heating, especially for liquids and dense foods, reducing cook times by up to 25% compared to 700W models. The LED lighting is bright, and the digital interface responds instantly. The larger footprint (18.7” wide) may challenge tight counters, but the interior space justifies the size. It handles multi-tasking well, though the lack of memory programming means you can’t save custom sequences.

Against the BLACK+DECKER, it offers more power and space but sacrifices the push-button door. It outperforms every other model in speed and capacity, making it ideal for small families or frequent cooks. While pricier, it delivers the best balance of power, size, and safety—offering superior performance that justifies its position as the best overall small space microwave.