What Is The Smallest Microwave Oven You Can Buy?

Are you looking to buy the smallest microwave oven available in 2023? With limited counter space, a compact microwave is essential for small kitchens and apartments. This guide will outline everything you need to know about shopping for the smallest microwave oven on the market this year.

Table of Contents

What Exactly Is Considered A “Small” Microwave Oven?

When searching for the smallest microwave, key factors to look for include:

Cubic Feet (Cu. Ft)

The internal capacity typically ranges from 0.5 to 0.9 cubic feet for the most compact models. The smallest microwaves can have a capacity of 0.5 cubic feet, such as the Whirlpool 0.5 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave.

Dimensions

Look for compact microwaves with dimensions under 19 inches wide to fit in tight spaces. Common sizes are 17” x 14” x 10”.

Wattage

Wattage does not always correlate with size. Options can range from 600 to 950 watts for small units versus typical 1000+ watts. Some compact microwaves have higher wattage than larger models, such as the Panasonic 0.8 Cu. Ft. Small Microwave with 950 watts of power.

Weight

Smaller microwaves can weigh from 15 to 35 pounds, depending on the materials and features. Ultra compact options can be as light as 15 pounds for true portability, while some models with smart sensors and stainless steel can weigh more than 32 pounds, such as the Toshiba Smart Sensor Microwave with 34.6 pounds.

Why Buy the Smallest Microwave Possible?

There are several good reasons to seek out a mini microwave oven:

Great for small kitchens, apartments, dorm rooms and other limited counter space
Easy to carry and transport for those who move frequently
Doesn’t take up much room, allowing you to optimize space
More environmentally friendly with lower energy usage
Cheaper to purchase than larger models
Sleek, modern aesthetic for contemporary kitchens

What to Look for When Buying a Compact Microwave

While you want the smallest microwave possible, you still need one that fits your cooking needs. Consider:

Wattage – Lower is smaller, but may require longer cook times. 700-800 works for basic heating tasks.
Capacity – 0.7 to 0.9 cu ft is best for 1-2 person households. Go smaller for dorms.
Features – Look for multi-stage cooking, presets, child lock if needed.
Design – Compact shape, handle, push-button door for easy use.
Budget – Inexpensive $60+ models to pricier $150+ options with more features.

Top 10 Smallest Microwave Ovens for 2023

After extensive research, these are the best compact microwaves for your tiny kitchen this year:

1. Black + Decker EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven

With 0.7 cubic feet capacity, 700 watts and a small footprint at 17.3 x 14.1 x 10.2 inches, this affordable Black + Decker is a top choice for dorms and apartments. It includes a child safety lock and boasts a 4.6/5 star rating with over 8,600 reviews on Amazon.

2. Commercial Chef CHM770B 700W 0.7 Cu. Ft. Retro Microwave

This retro-inspired 0.7 cubic foot microwave has style with its classic dial controls and green color. The 700 watt Commercial Chef model offers 10 power levels and multi-stage cooking in a compact 16.5 x 14.0 x 10.0 inch unit.

3. Galanz 0.7 Cu. Ft 700W Small Retro Microwave GL15RD700-07

With stylish old school flair, the red Galanz GL15RD700-07 microwave has 0.7 cu ft capacity with 700 watts of power. Measuring 15.9 x 13.8 x 10 inches, it’s a great pint-sized retro option.

4. Farberware FMO10AHTBKB 0.9 Cu. Ft. 1000W Microwave

The 18.1 x 15.1 x 11.5 inch Farberware FMO10AHTBKB provides more power at 1000 watts in a 0.9 cubic foot cavity. It’s compact for the wattage and features one-touch cooking, defrost and more.

5. Comfee MCR-0721TS 700W 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave Oven

Another good 0.7 cu ft option, the stainless steel Comfee MCR-0721TS has 700 watts with a 13.4 x 17.3 x 10.2 inch footprint. It boasts a 4.6/5 star rating from nearly 14,000 reviews for a compact budget buy.

6. Toshiba ML-EM34P(SS) 1.2 Cu.Ft 1100W Countertop Microwave

On the larger end for a “small” microwave, the 1.2 cu ft Toshiba ML-EM34P(SS) 1100 watt model measures 19.2 x 15.9 x 11.5 inches. But it still has a compact design perfect for apartments with its 0.5 ft turntable.

7. Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN67HS One-Touch 1200-Watt, 20 Liter, 1.2 Cu. Ft. with Inverter Technology

This 1.2 cubic foot 1200 watt Panasonic countertop microwave is hailed for consistent, even heating. Its 1-touch controls and child lock provide convenience for the 19.4 x 15.9 x 11.6 size.

8. Magic Chef MCM990ST 0.9 cu. ft. 900W Countertop Microwave Oven

With a solid 4.4/5 star rating from over 10,000 reviews, the compact Magic Chef MCM990ST 900 watt microwave provides 0.9 cu ft capacity in an 18.1 x 14.0 x 10.2 inch unit.

9. COMFEE’ AM720CGS-PTB 0.7 Cubic Feet Small Microwave 700W, 5 Power Levels, ETL Certification, Black Stainless Steel, Digital LED Display

The sleek black stainless steel COMFEE’ AM720CGS-PTB has a small 0.7 cu ft cavity and 700 watts of cooking power. Its compact 17.2 x 13.9 x 10.3 inch size is ideal for apartments, dorms and office kitchens.

10. hOmeLabs 0.9 Cubic Feet 700 Watt Small Microwave Oven

For just over $60, the 0.9 cu ft hOmeLabs microwave provides good value with 700 watts of power. Its 17.3 x 14.1 x 10.2 inch dimensions make it one of the better compact options for money.

Things To Consider When Buying The Smallest Microwave

Keep these key pointers in mind when evaluating petite microwaves:

Smaller size = lower wattage and power. You may need to cook items longer than a full size microwave.
Look for a turntable that maximizes the compact internal capacity.
Placement height is important for shorter people. Check product dimensions.
Do you need functions like defrost, presets and multi-stage cooking? Determine required features.
Match the size and wattage to your usage – don’t sacrifice more than necessary.
Read reviews and buy from reputable brands for quality and support.

FAQs About Compact Mini Microwaves

What Are The Smallest Microwave Dimensions?

The most compact microwave ovens measure around 15-17 inches in width, 10-14 inches in height and 10-11 inches in depth while offering under 0.8 cubic feet of capacity.

What Is The Lowest Wattage For Small Microwaves?

Microwaves with 0.5 cu ft capacity or less may have wattages as low as 500-700 watts, with more common options offering 700-1000 for basic heating ability.

Are Low Watt Microwaves Any Good?

Lower wattage microwaves work well for reheating and defrosting smaller portions. You may need to cook some foods longer than a 1000+ watt model. But they get the job done!

What Can You Cook In A 0.7 Cubic Feet 700 Watt Microwave?

A 0.7 cu ft 700 watt microwave can cook small meals, heat up leftovers, make popcorn, melt butter, steam veggies and more for 1-2 people. Larger quantities may require a bigger microwave.

What Are The Best Rated Small Microwaves?

Top rated compact microwaves include models like the Black + Decker EM720CB7, Toshiba ML-EM34P(SS) and Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN67HS based on thousands of positive customer reviews.

Find The Perfect Petite Microwave Model For Your Needs

Small kitchens and limited space don’t mean you have to go without a microwave. This guide outlined the key criteria, features and top rated models to consider when buying the smallest microwave oven for your needs in 2023. Be sure to determine your must-have functionality, capacity and dimensions to find the ideal compact countertop microwave that saves space without sacrificing performance.