7 Best Compact Microwave Ovens of 2025

Step into retro charm without sacrificing modern convenience—the Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 brings vintage flair to compact microwaving with a punch. Its 700W power and 360° rotating turntable ensure even heating, while the pull-handle design and Bebop Blue finish make it a standout accent in any kitchenette or dorm. This little powerhouse excels at reheating leftovers and defrosting small portions, making it ideal for singles or minimalist spaces where style meets function.

In real-world use, the Galanz delivers consistent results for quick meals, though it struggles slightly with larger containers due to its 0.7 cu ft cavity. The LED display is crisp and intuitive, and the child lock adds peace of mind in households with curious kids. While it lacks auto-cook presets found on competitors, the six power levels offer enough control for basic tasks like softening butter or steaming veggies. However, those needing speed or smart features may find it underpowered compared to more advanced models.

Compared to the TOSHIBA MM-EM07PA, this Galanz model trades culinary versatility for aesthetic appeal. It doesn’t offer ChefDefrost or mute mode, but wins on visual impact—perfect for renters or students who want a functional appliance that doesn’t look like one. If your priority is retro design with reliable daily performance, this microwave stands out in a sea of black boxes, trading some features for personality and panache.

When defrosting matters most, the TOSHIBA MM-EM07PA(BK) rises above the rest with its ChefDefrost technology—a game-changer for frozen meals that preserves texture and flavor. Packed into a compact 0.7 cu ft body, this 700W microwave combines precision with practicality, offering 11 power levels and six auto menus that make cooking popcorn or reheating pizza effortless. Its mute mode and ECO mode cater to quiet households and eco-conscious users, proving small doesn’t mean basic.

Real-world testing shows this Toshiba shines in speed and consistency, especially when using the One Touch Start for quick reheat jobs. The 9.6-inch turntable rotates smoothly, and the interior light lets you monitor food without interrupting the cycle. While the cavity size limits bulkier dishes, it handles standard bowls and mugs with ease. One minor drawback: the plastic exterior feels less durable than stainless steel rivals, and the button layout can feel cramped for larger fingers.

Against the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB, this model offers superior defrosting and more responsive controls, though at a slightly higher cost. It’s the go-to choice for users who value smart defrost performance and energy efficiency in a space-saving footprint. For dorm rooms or office kitchens where fast, quiet operation is key, the MM-EM07PA strikes a rare balance—packing pro-level features into an entry-tier price bracket.

The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) redefines what a compact microwave can do—delivering 900W of power in a 0.9 cu ft stainless steel shell that blends durability with elegance. With 11 power levels, 6 preset menus, and easy defrost by weight or time, it handles everything from frozen burritos to steamed vegetables with confidence. The 10.6-inch removable turntable accommodates larger plates, and the mute function ensures peace during late-night snacks.

In daily use, this Toshiba proves remarkably versatile—its kitchen timer and clock integration feel seamless, and the LED lighting illuminates every corner of the cavity. It heats faster and more evenly than 700W models, thanks to its higher wattage and optimized internal dimensions. Still, the two-step child lock can be finicky, requiring precise button presses that may frustrate elderly users. And while its size fits most countertops, it’s bulkier than ultra-minimalist options.

Stacked against the BLACK+DECKER 0.9 cu ft model, this Toshiba offers better build quality and smoother operation, though both share similar capacity and wattage. It’s the top pick for those seeking maximum performance in a compact footprint—ideal for small apartments or secondary kitchens. When you need larger capacity and restaurant-grade reheating without sacrificing counter space, the ML-EM09PA delivers where it counts.

Silence, sophistication, and smart engineering converge in the Breville BMO650SIL—a premium compact microwave that rethinks how a countertop oven should feel. With 80% quieter soft-close door mechanics and 50% quieter operation, it’s engineered for serene living spaces where noise pollution matters. The 0.9 cu ft cavity supports full meals, while one-touch shortcuts for pizza, popcorn, and beverages make daily use intuitive and fast.

Performance-wise, the Breville outshines budget models with its precision defrost and reheat functions, which prevent edge-burning and retain moisture—no more rubbery leftovers. The Food Menu intelligently adjusts power and time, and the memory function learns your habits over time. However, its $250 price tag is steep compared to sub-$100 competitors, and the lack of express cook beyond +30 seconds can slow down frequent users.

Compared to the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS), this Breville trades raw power for refinement—offering a quieter, smoother experience with superior UX design. It’s the clear choice for urban professionals or design-focused homeowners who want appliance elegance and whisper-quiet performance. If you’re willing to pay more for luxury touches and long-term usability, this microwave isn’t just an appliance—it’s a lifestyle upgrade.

The Chefman B0DY95T5HB punches well above its weight, blending eco-smart design with everyday usability in a sleek black shell. With 700W output, 10 power levels, and six one-touch presets, it simplifies routine tasks like warming coffee or cooking frozen meals. Its standout feature—ECO Mode—slashes standby power by up to 50%, making it a stealthy pick for energy-savvy users who want savings without sacrifice.

In real-world testing, the memory function and +30 seconds button enhance convenience, letting you save favorite settings and extend cooking on the fly. The digital controls are responsive, and the mute button eliminates end-of-cycle beeps—perfect for quiet homes. However, the interior lighting is dimmer than rivals, and the plastic finish attracts fingerprints, requiring frequent wiping to stay pristine.

When measured against the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB, this Chefman model offers more customization and better build quality, all while costing just slightly more. It’s the ideal blend of value, efficiency, and smart features for students or budget-conscious families. If you want eco-friendly operation and dependable performance without overspending, this microwave delivers exceptional bang for the buck.

For those who need maximum interior space in a compact frame, the BLACK+DECKER 0.9 cu ft microwave stands tall—literally and functionally. Its 10.6-inch turntable and deep cavity accommodate full dinner plates, while 900W power ensures fast, thorough heating. The push-button door release is a surprisingly satisfying touch, offering smooth, one-handed access that feels more premium than expected at this price.

This microwave handles daily demands with ease—reheating soups, defrosting chicken, or popping corn via pre-programmed buttons—all displayed clearly on its large LED screen. The child safety lock works reliably, and the 30-second express cook shortcut speeds up simple tasks. That said, the stainless steel door frame contrasts oddly with the black body, and the control panel beeps cannot be fully disabled, which may annoy night owls.

Compared to the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS), it offers nearly identical capacity and power but with fewer refinements like mute mode or weight-based defrost. Yet, it remains a strong contender for users who prioritize spacious interiors and ease of use. If you need a large compact microwave that fits oversized dishes without dominating your counter, this BLACK+DECKER model is a practical, no-frills powerhouse.

The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB is the ultimate entry-level warrior—delivering essential features at an unbeatable price point. With 700W power, one-touch cooking, and dual defrost modes, it covers all the basics for students, bachelors, or secondary kitchens. The ECO Mode reduces standby consumption by half, and the silent operation toggle lets you run it quietly at night—no startling beeps to break the peace.

In practice, it reheats small meals efficiently and handles frozen snacks with ease, though it falters slightly with dense foods due to its modest wattage. The 10-inch turntable spins reliably, and the bright digital display is easy to read, even in low light. However, the plastic construction feels lightweight, and the button responsiveness lags slightly after repeated use.

Pitted against the Chefman B0DY95T5HB, this COMFEE’ model offers fewer power levels and no memory function but wins on sheer affordability. It’s the go-to for anyone seeking a no-nonsense, budget-friendly microwave that gets the job done. When low cost and core functionality are your top priorities, this model proves you don’t need to spend big to eat well.