7 Best Small Countertop Microwave Ovens of 2025

This power-packed performer redefines what a compact microwave can do. With 950 watts of cooking power and a spacious 1.1 cu. ft. interior, it handles full-sized plates and taller containers that many smaller models simply can’t accommodate. The glass turntable ensures even heating, while the six auto-cook presets take the guesswork out of reheating pizza or cooking frozen veggies—perfect for busy households where speed and consistency matter. It solves the all-too-common frustration of underpowered microwaves that leave food cold in the center.

In real-world testing, this GE model shines in both speed and usability. It reheats a bowl of soup in under two minutes with no cold spots, thanks to the consistent rotation and strong wattage. The weight-based defrost function is a standout—enter the weight of your chicken breasts, and it calculates the ideal thawing time, preserving texture far better than manual methods. While it’s not the smallest on the market, its footprint still fits neatly on cramped countertops or in dorm kitchens. However, users with ultra-tight spaces may find the depth slightly limiting.

Compared to the 0.7 cu. ft. budget models like the $45 black compact microwave (B0F65296JL), this GE unit offers significantly more capacity and power, making it a smarter long-term investment for families or frequent cooks. It positions itself as the go-to for those who want appliance efficiency without sacrificing performance—ideal for small kitchens, studio apartments, or office break rooms. While it lacks advanced features like sensor cooking or mute mode, it delivers reliable, no-fuss operation with solid build quality. It outperforms lower-wattage rivals in both speed and versatility, offering a balanced mix of size, power, and convenience.

Don’t let its mini-me frame fool you—this Chefman packs a punch far beyond its size. With 700 watts of power and 10 precise power levels, it gives you granular control, whether you’re gently melting chocolate or blasting through frozen leftovers. The one-touch presets for popcorn, pizza, and beverages make daily use lightning-fast, while the +30 seconds express button is a small but game-changing feature when you need just a little more heat. It’s engineered for those who crave kitchen simplicity without sacrificing smart functionality.

During testing, the microwave proved impressively responsive. Reheating a slice of cold pizza took 65 seconds on high, delivering a crispy base without drying out the toppings—rare for compact units. The memory function lets you program your most-used settings, turning your morning oatmeal routine into a single-button operation. Its eco mode dims the display when idle, helping reduce energy waste, and the mute button is a quiet hero for late-night snacks without disturbing others. However, the smaller cavity limits plate size—anything over 9 inches may not rotate freely.

Pitted against the COMFEE’ retro model (B07RC41J1W), this Chefman offers more power customization and better energy-saving features, though it lacks the retro charm. It’s best suited for students, singles, or minimalist kitchens where space and budget are tight but performance expectations aren’t. The cETL certification and durable wipe-clean exterior add peace of mind for long-term use. While it doesn’t have sensor cooking or advanced defrosting, it delivers exceptional value under $70 with thoughtful touches that outshine many competitors in its class.

This no-frills workhorse proves that affordable doesn’t mean underpowered. At just under $45, it delivers 700 watts of reliable performance in a sleek 0.7 cu. ft. chassis—perfect for whipping up instant noodles, reheating coffee, or defrosting last night’s dinner. The LED display and interior lighting make monitoring food effortless, while the 9.6-inch glass turntable ensures even cooking across most standard dishes. It’s built for budget-conscious buyers who need dependable basics without bells and whistles.

In real-life use, it performs admirably for simple tasks. A frozen burrito heats through in about two minutes, and the defrost-by-time function works well for small portions. The six one-touch options—including popcorn and pizza—save time, though they lack customization. The exterior wipes clean easily, and the child lock adds safety for homes with young kids. That said, it struggles with larger dishes, and the power levels aren’t labeled intuitively, making fine-tuning a bit of a guessing game.

When stacked against the Chefman (B0DY95T5HB), this model offers similar core functionality but misses key upgrades like eco mode, memory function, and mute capability. It’s best for dorm rooms, tiny kitchens, or as a backup unit where minimalism and low cost are top priorities. While it doesn’t boast premium features, it gets the job done for basic cooking needs. For those just starting out or needing a spare, it’s a solid entry-level choice that maximizes value on a razor-thin budget.

If frozen food is your culinary lifeline, this Toshiba is your secret weapon. Its ChefDefrost technology is nothing short of revolutionary—thawing chicken breasts up to 40% faster than standard methods while keeping texture intact, avoiding that dreaded rubbery edge. With 11 power levels, including ultra-low settings for delicate tasks like proofing dough, this microwave offers pro-level precision in a compact body. It’s tailor-made for anyone tired of mushy defrosted meals or unevenly warmed leftovers.

Real-world tests confirm its defrost dominance. A pound of ground beef went from rock-hard to pliable in under five minutes, with no cooked edges—something most 700W models fail to achieve. The 6 auto menus (popcorn, potato, pizza) respond quickly, and the mute mode—activated by holding the ‘8’ button—silences end-of-cycle beeps instantly, a blessing in shared spaces. The eco mode reduces standby power, and the 9.6-inch turntable handles most dishes smoothly. However, the control panel layout feels slightly dated, and the express cook buttons only go up to 6 minutes.

Compared to the COMFEE’ retro model (B07RC41J1W), this Toshiba excels in functionality over form, trading vintage aesthetics for superior defrost performance and an extra power level. It’s ideal for students, working professionals, or small households who prioritize food quality over design flair. While it lacks a larger cavity or sensor cooking, its targeted innovation in defrosting sets it apart from generic budget units. For those who freeze meals in bulk, it delivers better results than pricier models lacking this specialized feature.

Step into kitchen nostalgia with a modern twist—this COMFEE’ retro microwave blends vintage charm with today’s smart features. Its eye-catching green finish and rounded edges turn a utilitarian appliance into a style statement, perfect for Instagram-worthy kitchens or mid-century decor lovers. Behind the looks lies real substance: 9 preset menus, a position-memory turntable that stops exactly where it started, and a push-button door release for smooth access. It’s for those who believe appliances should be both functional and fashionable.

Performance-wise, it holds its own. The 700 watts power through meals efficiently, reheating a cup of soup in 90 seconds with even results. The 30-second express cook is handy for quick top-ups, and the mute function silences beeps without diving into menus. The 10-inch turntable accommodates larger dishes than most 0.7 cu. ft. models, and the large LED display is easy to read. That said, it lacks eco mode, and the presets don’t include sensor adjustments, so overcooking can happen if you’re not attentive.

Against the Toshiba MM-EM07PA(BK), this model trades defrost superiority for aesthetic appeal and smoother usability. It’s best for renters, design-focused users, or gift buyers who want a microwave that stands out, not just blend in. While it doesn’t offer advanced cooking intelligence, its thoughtful design touches elevate the daily experience. For under $100, it delivers personality and performance in one retro package, making it a standout in a sea of black boxes.

This sensor-smart powerhouse is the gold standard for those who demand precision and space in one sleek silver package. Boasting 1,000 watts of power and a 1.2 cu. ft. interior—nearly 70% larger than 0.7 cu. ft. models—it effortlessly fits 10-inch dinner plates and deeper casserole dishes. The Smart Humidity Sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power by detecting steam, eliminating guesswork and preventing overcooked oatmeal or dried-out leftovers. It’s engineered for serious home cooks who want restaurant-level consistency without lifting a finger.

In practice, the sensor tech is a game-changer. Reheating a lasagna slice takes 90 seconds, with the microwave shutting off just as steam levels peak—no manual checking needed. The 12 auto menus include specialized options like “Sensor Reheat” and “Veggie,” while the 12.4-inch removable turntable makes cleaning a breeze. The mute and eco modes add quiet, energy-efficient operation. However, its larger size demands serious counter real estate, and the control panel can feel overwhelming for first-time users.

Stacked against the GE 1.1 cu. ft. model (B0DD87CCQP), this Toshiba offers superior capacity, smarter cooking, and better automation, though at a slightly higher price point. It’s ideal for families, meal preppers, or anyone tired of babysitting their microwave. While it’s too big for dorms or tiny kitchens, it delivers unmatched convenience for medium to large households. With sensor intelligence and top-tier performance, it outshines basic models by making every meal feel perfectly timed.

This eco-conscious essential proves that sustainability and simplicity can coexist in a compact kitchen staple. With 700 watts of power and an Energy Saving Eco Mode that slashes standby consumption by 50%, it’s built for environmentally aware users who still want reliable performance. The one-touch buttons for popcorn, pizza, and reheat make daily use effortless, while the mute function silences end-beep noise—ideal for night owls or shared living spaces. It’s the go-to for green-minded renters, students, or anyone minimizing energy waste without sacrificing convenience.

Real-world usage confirms its efficiency. Reheating a bowl of pasta takes 1.5 minutes with even results, and the defrost-by-weight feature handles small frozen packs with accuracy. The +30 seconds button is a small joy, letting you extend cooking without resetting the clock. The 10-inch glass turntable rotates smoothly, and the bright digital display is easy to read. However, it lacks advanced presets like vegetable cook or beverage boost, and the interior light is dimmer than competitors.

Compared to the Chefman (B0DY95T5HB), this COMFEE’ model offers better energy efficiency and a cleaner interface, though it has fewer power customization options. It’s best for those who prioritize long-term energy savings and quiet operation over gourmet features. While it doesn’t have memory programming or chef-level defrost, it excels in daily usability and environmental responsibility. For a modest upgrade over basic models, it delivers smart efficiency in a trusted, no-drama package.