Best Rated Small Microwave Ovens: Top Choices for Any Kitchen

Finding the best small microwave oven can be a challenge. You need reliability, efficiency, and features that fit your lifestyle.
This blog post highlights top-rated small microwave ovens to help you make an informed choice. Whether you need a compact model for a dorm room or a powerful option for a small kitchen, we have you covered. These microwaves offer various features like inverter technology, smart sensors, and easy-to-clean interiors.
From brands like Panasonic, Toshiba, and GE, each model stands out for its unique benefits. Read on to discover which small microwave oven suits your needs best, ensuring you get the perfect blend of performance and convenience. Let’s dive into the specifics of these highly recommended microwave ovens.
Panasonic Microwave Oven Nn-sn686s

The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S is a versatile and powerful kitchen appliance designed to meet your cooking needs. With its sleek stainless steel finish, this microwave oven not only looks stylish but also offers advanced features like Inverter Technology and a Genius Sensor for precise cooking results. Its compact size of 1.2 cubic feet and a power output of 1200W make it an ideal choice for both countertop and built-in installations.
Pros:
- Compact size fits most kitchens
- High power output for quick cooking
- Inverter Technology ensures even cooking
- Genius Sensor automatically adjusts cooking time
- Stylish stainless steel finish
Cons:
- May be too powerful for small portions
- Stainless steel exterior can show fingerprints
The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S stands out due to its combination of power and technology. The Inverter Technology allows for even cooking by delivering a constant stream of power, which prevents overcooking and retains more nutrients in your food. This makes it particularly useful for defrosting and cooking delicate items that require precise temperature control.
Another notable feature is the Genius Sensor, which automatically adjusts the cooking time based on the moisture levels in the food. This means you can enjoy perfectly cooked meals without having to guess the cooking time. The compact size and stylish design make it a great addition to any kitchen, whether you place it on your countertop or integrate it into your cabinetry.
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Toshiba Em131a5c-bs Countertop Microwave Oven

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen appliance designed to make your cooking experience more efficient and enjoyable. Featuring a 1.2 Cu Ft capacity, this microwave oven comes with a 12.4″ removable turntable and a smart humidity sensor for precise cooking. With 12 auto menus, a mute function, and ECO mode, it offers a range of convenient features. The easy clean interior and black stainless steel color add to its appeal, making it a stylish addition to any kitchen.
Pros:
- Large 1.2 Cu Ft capacity for versatile cooking options
- Smart humidity sensor ensures perfectly cooked meals
- 12 auto menus for quick and easy meal preparation
- Mute function for quiet operation
- ECO mode for energy savings
- Easy clean interior for hassle-free maintenance
- Black stainless steel color adds a modern touch to your kitchen
Cons:
- Relatively large dimensions may not fit smaller kitchen spaces
- At 34.6 pounds, it may be heavy for some users to move
- Higher wattage (1100W) might not be suitable for all electrical circuits
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven stands out due to its smart humidity sensor that ensures your food is never over or undercooked. The 12 auto menus are designed to make meal preparation quick and easy, even for those who aren’t proficient in the kitchen. Additionally, the mute function and ECO mode enhance the user experience by offering quieter operation and energy efficiency.
Another notable feature is its easy clean interior, which simplifies maintenance and keeps the microwave looking new. However, potential buyers should consider the microwave’s large dimensions and weight, which may not be suitable for all kitchen spaces. Despite these minor drawbacks, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS offers excellent performance and a range of features that make it a valuable addition to any modern kitchen.
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Toshiba Em925a5a-bs Countertop Microwave Oven

The TOSHIBA EM925A5A-BS Countertop Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen appliance designed to make cooking and reheating food convenient and efficient. With its sleek black stainless steel finish, this microwave not only performs well but also adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen decor. It features a 0.9 cubic feet capacity, a 10.6-inch removable turntable, and a powerful 900W motor, making it ideal for a variety of cooking needs.
Pros:
- Sleek black stainless steel finish adds a modern touch to any kitchen.
- 900W power for fast and efficient cooking.
- Six auto menus for easy cooking of popular dishes.
- Mute function to avoid unwanted noise.
- ECO mode for energy-saving operation.
- Child lock for added safety.
- LED lighting for better visibility inside the microwave.
Cons:
- 0.9 cubic feet capacity may be small for larger families.
- 27.3 pounds weight could be cumbersome for some users to move.
The TOSHIBA EM925A5A-BS Countertop Microwave Oven excels in its category with a blend of functionality and style. The 900W power ensures that your meals are cooked quickly and evenly, while the six auto menus simplify the cooking process for popular dishes such as popcorn, pizza, and vegetables. Its mute function is particularly beneficial for those who prefer a quieter kitchen environment. Additionally, the ECO mode helps conserve energy, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
On the downside, the 0.9 cubic feet capacity might not be sufficient for larger families who need to cook bigger portions. The microwave’s weight of 27.3 pounds can also be a drawback for those who need to move it frequently, such as in small or shared living spaces. However, the child lock feature adds an extra layer of safety, making it a great option for families with young children. Overall, this microwave offers a good balance of performance, safety, and aesthetic appeal.
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Farberware Countertop Microwave

The Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts, 1.1 cu ft is a reliable and efficient microwave oven designed to meet the needs of small spaces such as apartments and dorms. It features LED lighting, a child lock for safety, and an easy clean stainless steel exterior, making it both functional and stylish.
Pros:
- 1000 Watts of power for quick cooking
- 1.1 cu ft capacity suitable for small spaces
- LED lighting for better visibility
- Child lock for added safety
- Easy clean stainless steel exterior
Cons:
- Small capacity may not be suitable for large families
- Weight is very light, which might affect stability
The Farberware Countertop Microwave stands out for its combination of power and compact size. With 1000 Watts of power, this microwave ensures that your food is cooked quickly and evenly. The 1.1 cu ft capacity is ideal for individuals or small families, fitting well in limited spaces such as apartments and dormitories. The LED lighting inside the microwave enhances visibility, allowing you to monitor your food without opening the door.
Another significant feature is the child lock, which provides peace of mind by preventing unsupervised use. The easy clean stainless steel exterior not only adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen but also ensures that maintaining the microwave is hassle-free. However, its small capacity may not be sufficient for larger families, and its very light weight could affect its stability on the countertop. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Farberware Countertop Microwave is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a powerful and convenient microwave for smaller living spaces.
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Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven

Experience the ultimate in convenience with the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven. This 1.1 Cu. Ft. Digital Stainless Steel Microwave boasts 1000 Watts of power and includes 6 Auto Menus, 10 Power Levels, Eco Mode, Memory, Mute Function, Child Safety Lock, and an Easy Clean surface.
Pros:
- High 1000 Watts power for quick cooking
- Versatile with 6 Auto Menus and 10 Power Levels
- Energy-efficient Eco Mode
- Convenient Memory and Mute Function
- Enhanced safety with Child Safety Lock
- Easy Clean surface for hassle-free maintenance
Cons:
- Heavier than some models at 32.0 pounds
- Stainless Steel finish may show fingerprints
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is designed to cater to all your cooking needs with its 1000 Watts of power and 10 Power Levels. The 6 Auto Menus simplify the cooking process, allowing you to prepare a variety of dishes with ease. Its Eco Mode and Memory Function add to its energy efficiency and convenience, making it a practical addition to any kitchen.
Furthermore, the Child Safety Lock ensures peace of mind, making it a safe option for households with children. Although it weighs 32.0 pounds, its sturdy build contributes to its durability. The Stainless Steel finish, while sleek and modern, may require regular cleaning to maintain its pristine look. Overall, this microwave offers a blend of functionality, safety, and style.
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Black+decker Em036ab14 Digital Microwave Oven

The BLACK+DECKER EM036AB14 Digital Microwave Oven is a versatile and efficient kitchen appliance designed to make your cooking experience more convenient. With its stainless steel finish, 1.4 Cu.ft. capacity, and turntable push-button door, it offers both style and functionality. Additionally, it comes with a child safety lock for added security.
Pros:
- Sleek stainless steel design adds a modern touch to your kitchen.
- 1.4 Cu.ft. capacity is perfect for family-sized meals.
- Turntable push-button door ensures even cooking.
- Child safety lock provides peace of mind for families with young children.
Cons:
- Weight of only 0.75 pounds might seem too light for some users.
- Dimensions may not fit all kitchen spaces comfortably.
The BLACK+DECKER EM036AB14 Digital Microwave Oven stands out with its stainless steel finish, making it a stylish addition to any kitchen. The 1.4 Cu.ft. capacity allows you to prepare larger meals, suitable for a family setting. Its turntable push-button door not only simplifies the cooking process but also ensures that your food is evenly heated every time. The inclusion of a child safety lock is a thoughtful feature, particularly for households with young children, ensuring that the microwave can be used safely without any accidents.
While the BLACK+DECKER EM036AB14 has many appealing features, it is important to consider its weight and dimensions. At just 0.75 pounds, some users might find it too light, potentially affecting its stability during use. Moreover, the specific dimensions of Height: 12.4 inches, Width: 20.4 inches, and Length: 16.9 inches might not be ideal for all kitchen layouts, requiring users to measure their available space carefully before purchasing. Despite these minor drawbacks, the microwave’s overall performance and safety features make it a valuable addition to any modern kitchen.
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Ge Gcst10a1wss 4-in-1 Microwave Oven

The GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines multiple cooking functions into a single unit. This 1,050-watt microwave oven offers air fryer, broiler, and convection mode capabilities, making it an ideal choice for those who need a multi-functional cooking solution. Designed with child-lock technology and a sleek stainless steel finish, it fits perfectly on any countertop or in a dorm room.
Pros:
- Multi-functional: Combines microwave, air fryer, broiler, and convection mode.
- High power: 1,050 watts for efficient cooking.
- Child-lock technology: Ensures safety in households with children.
- Compact size: Ideal for countertops or dorm rooms.
- Sleek design: Stainless steel finish adds a modern touch to the kitchen.
Cons:
- Limited capacity: 1.0 Cu. Ft may not be sufficient for larger families.
- Heavier unit: Weighs 35.0 pounds, which might be cumbersome to move.
The GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven stands out due to its versatility. With its ability to function as an air fryer, broiler, and convection oven in addition to a microwave, it offers a wide range of cooking options. The 1,050-watt power ensures that food is cooked quickly and efficiently. Its child-lock technology makes it a safe addition to homes with young children, providing peace of mind for parents.
In terms of design, the stainless steel finish gives it a modern and sleek look that complements any kitchen decor. However, its compact size of 1.0 Cu. Ft might be limiting for larger households that require more cooking space. Additionally, the weight of 35.0 pounds might make it less portable for those who need to move it frequently. Despite these minor drawbacks, the GE GCST10A1WSS remains a highly functional and stylish choice for anyone looking to maximize their kitchen’s potential.
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Commercial Chef 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave

The COMMERCIAL CHEF 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave is a compact yet powerful microwave featuring 10 power levels and 1000 watts of cooking power. It is designed to fit seamlessly on your countertop, offering a blend of functionality and style with its stainless steel finish. This microwave is equipped with a push button door, a kitchen timer, a door lock for safety, and digital controls for ease of use.
Pros:
- Compact size fits easily on most countertops
- 10 power levels provide versatility in cooking
- 1000W power ensures quick and efficient cooking
- Stainless steel finish adds a modern touch to the kitchen
- Push button door for convenient access
- Kitchen timer for precise cooking
- Door lock feature ensures safety
- Digital controls for easy operation
Cons:
- Weight of 31.9 pounds might be heavy for some users
- Limited interior space due to compact size
- Stainless steel surface may require regular cleaning to maintain appearance
The COMMERCIAL CHEF 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave is an excellent choice for those who need a reliable and versatile microwave for their kitchen. Its compact design allows it to fit comfortably on most countertops without taking up too much space. The 10 power levels offer a range of cooking options, from defrosting to full-power cooking, making it a multi-functional appliance for any household. Additionally, the 1000W power output ensures that your food is cooked quickly and evenly, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
Another notable feature is the stainless steel finish, which not only looks sleek and modern but also adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen decor. The push button door and digital controls make it easy to use, while the kitchen timer and door lock provide added safety and convenience. However, it’s important to consider the weight of the microwave, which might be a bit heavy for some users, and the limited interior space due to its compact size. Despite these minor drawbacks, the COMMERCIAL CHEF 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave remains a highly functional and stylish addition to any kitchen.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Small Microwave Oven?
The Panasonic NN-SN686S is a top-rated small microwave oven. It features inverter technology and a Genius Sensor for precise cooking.
Which Small Microwave Has A Child Lock Feature?
The TOSHIBA EM925A5A-BS has a child lock feature. It ensures safety and prevents accidental use by children.
Are There Small Microwaves With Eco Mode?
Yes, the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven has an eco mode. It helps save energy and reduces electricity consumption.
Can Small Microwaves Fit In Dorm Rooms?
Yes, the Farberware Countertop Microwave is perfect for dorm rooms. It’s compact and easy to clean.
Do Small Microwaves Come With Multiple Auto Menus?
Yes, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS features 12 auto menus. It simplifies cooking with pre-programmed settings.
What Small Microwave Has Air Fryer Functionality?
The GE GCST10A1WSS microwave includes air fryer functionality. It offers versatile cooking options in a compact size.
Conclusion
Choosing the best small microwave oven can be challenging. Each model has its unique features and benefits. The panasonic microwave oven nn-sn686s stands out with its inverter technology. The toshiba models offer smart humidity sensors and eco modes. Farberware and chefman microwaves provide child safety locks and easy-to-clean interiors.
Black+decker’s microwave is known for its push-button door and digital controls. The ge microwave includes multiple cooking modes like air frying and broiling. The commercial chef microwave is another reliable choice with 10 power levels. Consider your specific needs and kitchen space.
Your perfect microwave is out there. Happy cooking!