Best Small Microwave Oven for Compact Kitchens and Dorms

Finding the best small microwave oven can be challenging. You need a device that’s compact, efficient, and fits your kitchen.
In this blog post, we review the top small microwave ovens available today. We consider factors like size, power, and additional features. From BLACK+DECKER’s sleek design to Farberware’s easy-clean interiors, these microwaves cater to different needs. If you prefer advanced features, TOSHIBA and Panasonic offer smart sensors and eco modes.
For a touch of retro style, the Galanz microwave stands out. Each option is suitable for apartments, dorms, or small kitchens. We aim to help you make an informed choice for your compact cooking space. Read on to discover the best small microwave oven for your needs.
Black+decker Em720cb7 Digital Microwave Oven

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a compact and efficient kitchen appliance perfect for small spaces. With a 700W power output and a 0.7 Cu.ft. capacity, it offers sufficient functionality for everyday use. This microwave features a turntable for even cooking, a push-button door for easy access, and a child safety lock for added security.
Pros:
- Compact size ideal for small kitchens or dorm rooms
- 700W power output provides efficient cooking
- Stainless steel finish gives a sleek and modern look
- Child safety lock ensures safe use around children
- Push-button door for convenient access
Cons:
- 0.7 Cu.ft. capacity may be too small for larger families
- 700W might not be sufficient for more demanding cooking tasks
- Limited features compared to higher-end models
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven stands out due to its compact design and stainless steel finish, making it a stylish addition to any kitchen. Despite its smaller 0.7 Cu.ft. capacity, it is highly functional for reheating, defrosting, and simple cooking tasks. The 700W power output ensures that food is cooked evenly and efficiently, although it may not handle more intensive cooking needs as effectively as higher-wattage models.
One of the key features of this microwave is the child safety lock, which provides peace of mind for families with young children. Additionally, the push-button door enhances ease of use, making it convenient to operate. While it might lack some of the advanced features found in more expensive models, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 offers great value for those seeking a reliable, straightforward microwave for everyday use.
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Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts, 0.7 Cu. Ft.

The Farberware Countertop Microwave offers a compact yet efficient solution for your cooking needs. With 700 Watts of power and a 0.7 Cu. Ft. capacity, this microwave oven is perfect for small spaces such as apartments and dorms. It features LED lighting, a child lock for safety, and an easy clean grey interior. The retro black design adds a touch of style to any kitchen.
Pros:
- Compact size is perfect for small spaces
- 700 Watts of power for efficient cooking
- LED lighting for better visibility
- Child lock feature for added safety
- Easy clean grey interior simplifies maintenance
- Retro black design adds a stylish touch
Cons:
- 0.7 Cu. Ft. capacity might be too small for larger families
- 700 Watts might not be sufficient for some cooking tasks
The Farberware Countertop Microwave is an excellent choice for individuals living in small apartments or dorms due to its compact size and efficient features. The 700 Watts of power ensures that most cooking tasks are completed quickly and efficiently, while the LED lighting provides excellent visibility inside the oven. The child lock feature is a significant advantage for families with young children, ensuring safety in the kitchen.
However, its 0.7 Cu. Ft. capacity may not be suitable for larger families or for cooking large meals. Additionally, while 700 Watts is generally adequate for most tasks, it may not meet the needs of those requiring higher power for more demanding cooking. Despite these limitations, the easy clean grey interior and retro black design make it a stylish and practical addition to any small kitchen. Overall, the Farberware Countertop Microwave is a reliable and attractive option for those with limited space.
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Toshiba Em131a5c-bs Countertop Microwave Ovens

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven is a versatile and efficient kitchen appliance designed to make cooking easier and more convenient. With its 1.2 Cu Ft capacity and 12.4″ removable turntable, this microwave offers ample space for various dishes. The smart humidity sensor and 12 auto menus ensure precise cooking and defrosting, while the mute function and ECO mode add to its user-friendly features. The easy clean interior and black stainless steel finish make it a stylish addition to any kitchen.
Pros:
- Smart humidity sensor for precise cooking
- 12 auto menus for convenience
- Mute function to avoid noise
- ECO mode for energy saving
- Easy clean interior for hassle-free maintenance
- Black stainless steel finish for a modern look
Cons:
- 34.6 pounds weight might be heavy for some users
- 15.0 inches height may not fit in all kitchen spaces
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven stands out with its smart humidity sensor that automatically adjusts cooking time and power levels for optimal results. This feature ensures that your food is cooked evenly and thoroughly every time. The 12 auto menus provide a range of preset options, making it easy to prepare a variety of dishes without having to guess the cooking time and power settings.
Another notable feature is the mute function, which allows you to turn off the beep sound for a quieter cooking experience. The ECO mode is a great addition for those who are energy-conscious, as it reduces standby power consumption. Cleaning is also made simple with the easy clean interior, which requires minimal effort to keep the microwave spotless. The black stainless steel finish not only adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen but also resists fingerprints and smudges, maintaining its sleek appearance.
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Panasonic Microwave Oven Nn-sn686s

The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S is a stainless steel countertop/built-in appliance that combines inverter technology and a genius sensor for optimal cooking performance. With a capacity of 1.2 cubic foot and 1200W power, this microwave offers both efficiency and convenience.
Pros:
- Inverter Technology for consistent heating
- Genius Sensor for automatic cooking adjustments
- Stainless Steel finish for a sleek, modern look
- Compact size suitable for countertops or built-in installation
- High power output of 1200W
Cons:
- Noisy operation compared to other models
- Higher price point
- Limited internal capacity at 1.2 cubic foot
The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S stands out with its inverter technology, which ensures that food is heated evenly without overcooking the edges. This technology is particularly useful for reheating leftovers or cooking delicate foods that require precise temperature control. The genius sensor further enhances the user experience by automatically adjusting cooking settings based on the food’s moisture levels, taking the guesswork out of meal preparation.
In terms of design, the stainless steel finish gives the microwave a modern and sleek appearance, making it a great fit for contemporary kitchens. The compact dimensions (Height: 12.2 inches, Width: 20.7 inches, Length: 15.8 inches) make it versatile for various kitchen layouts, whether placed on a countertop or built into cabinetry. However, some users might find the 1.2 cubic foot capacity limiting, especially when cooking larger meals. Despite its slightly higher price point, the combination of advanced features and stylish design make the Panasonic NN-SN686S a worthwhile investment for those seeking a reliable and efficient microwave.
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Farberware Countertop Microwave

Introducing the Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts, 1.1 cu ft – a versatile and stylish microwave oven that enhances your kitchen experience. With its Metallic Red finish and compact dimensions, it is perfect for apartments and dorms. The microwave is designed for ease of use with LED lighting and a child lock feature, ensuring safety and convenience for your everyday cooking needs.
Pros:
- 1000 Watts of power for efficient cooking
- 1.1 cu ft capacity, ideal for small spaces
- LED lighting for better visibility
- Child lock feature for safety
- Easy to clean metallic red finish
Cons:
- May be too small for larger families
- Limited color options available
The Farberware Countertop Microwave is designed with both functionality and aesthetics in mind. Its 1000 watts of power ensure that your food is cooked evenly and quickly, while the 1.1 cu ft capacity is perfect for smaller kitchens, apartments, or dorms. The LED lighting inside the microwave makes it easy to monitor your food without having to open the door, adding to the convenience of this appliance.
In terms of safety, the child lock feature is a great addition, providing peace of mind for families with young children. The microwave’s easy-to-clean metallic red finish not only looks stylish but also ensures that maintenance is a breeze. However, it’s important to consider that the size may not be suitable for larger families who need to cook bigger meals. Additionally, while the metallic red color is striking, the lack of other color options might be a drawback for some users.
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Galanz Glcmka07ber-07 Retro Microwave Oven

The Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 Retro Microwave Oven is a stylish and compact kitchen appliance that combines modern functionality with a vintage design. It features LED lighting, a pull handle design, and a child lock for added safety. This microwave oven is perfect for those who want to add a touch of retro charm to their kitchen while enjoying the convenience of a powerful and efficient microwave.
Pros:
- Stylish retro design
- Compact size perfect for small spaces
- LED lighting for better visibility
- Child lock for added safety
- Easy-to-use pull handle design
Cons:
- Limited capacity of 0.7 cu ft
- Relatively heavy for its size at 23.1 pounds
- May not fit larger dishes due to its compact dimensions
The Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 Retro Microwave Oven is a great choice for those who appreciate both functionality and aesthetics in their kitchen appliances. Its compact size makes it ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or office spaces. The LED lighting ensures that you can easily see your food as it cooks, while the child lock feature provides peace of mind for families with young children. Despite its compact size, it still offers a decent amount of cooking power and various settings to handle different types of food.
However, the microwave’s limited capacity of 0.7 cu ft means it might not be suitable for larger families or those who frequently cook large meals. Additionally, the microwave’s relatively heavy weight could be a downside for some users. While the compact dimensions are great for saving space, they might also limit the size of the dishes that can be used. Overall, the Galanz Retro Microwave Oven offers a unique blend of style and functionality, making it a great addition to any kitchen that values both form and function.
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Toshiba Em925a5a-bs Countertop Microwave Oven

The TOSHIBA EM925A5A-BS Countertop Microwave Oven is a versatile and efficient kitchen appliance, perfect for quick and easy cooking. With a 0.9 Cu Ft capacity and a 10.6-inch removable turntable, this microwave provides ample space for your meals. It boasts 900W of power and comes with 6 auto menus, making it convenient to prepare a variety of dishes. The mute function and ECO mode are added features that enhance the user experience, while the child lock ensures safety. The LED lighting and sleek black stainless steel finish add a modern touch to any kitchen.
Pros:
- Compact size suitable for small kitchens.
- 900W power for efficient cooking.
- 6 auto menus for easy meal preparation.
- Mute function for silent operation.
- ECO mode for energy saving.
- Child lock for safety.
- LED lighting for clear visibility.
- Sleek black stainless steel finish.
Cons:
- Limited capacity of 0.9 Cu Ft might not suit larger families.
- Basic features might not appeal to advanced users.
- Fingerprint-prone stainless steel surface.
The TOSHIBA EM925A5A-BS Countertop Microwave Oven stands out with its compact size and sleek design, making it a great fit for smaller kitchens or dorm rooms. Its 900W power ensures that your food is cooked evenly and quickly, while the 6 auto menus simplify the cooking process by offering preset options for popular dishes. The mute function is particularly useful for maintaining a quiet household, and the ECO mode helps reduce energy consumption, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
Additionally, the child lock feature provides peace of mind for families with young children, preventing accidental operation. The LED lighting inside the microwave ensures that you can easily monitor the cooking process without opening the door. However, the limited capacity of 0.9 Cu Ft may not be sufficient for larger families, and the basic features might not satisfy users looking for more advanced cooking options. Also, the fingerprint-prone stainless steel surface requires regular cleaning to maintain its appearance. Overall, this microwave offers a good balance of functionality and style, making it a reliable addition to any 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 the functionalities of a microwave, air fryer, broiler, and convection oven. This stainless steel unit is an ideal addition to any kitchen, whether it’s for your countertop or dorm room. With 1.0 Cu. Ft of space and a child-lock technology, this appliance ensures both convenience and safety.
Pros:
- Versatile 4-in-1 functionality: Microwave, air fryer, broiler, and convection oven.
- Stainless steel design for a modern look.
- Compact dimensions suitable for countertops or dorm rooms.
- Child-lock technology for added safety.
Cons:
- Weight of 35.0 pounds might make it less portable.
- Limited capacity of 1.0 Cu. Ft may not be sufficient for larger families.
The GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen appliance that is designed to meet multiple cooking needs. Its 4-in-1 functionality allows you to microwave, air fry, broil, and use convection mode, making it an essential item for modern kitchens. The stainless steel finish not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also ensures durability. Additionally, the child-lock technology provides an extra layer of safety, which is especially beneficial for families with young children.
Despite its numerous advantages, the appliance does come with some drawbacks. The weight of 35.0 pounds makes it a bit cumbersome to move around, which might be a concern for those who need to relocate it frequently. Moreover, the limited capacity of 1.0 Cu. Ft can be a constraint if you need to cook larger quantities of food. However, for small to medium-sized households, this appliance offers excellent versatility and functionality, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Best Small Microwave Ovens?
The best small microwave ovens include BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7, Farberware Countertop Microwave, and TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS. These models offer compact sizes, great features, and reliable performance. They are perfect for small kitchens, dorms, and apartments.
Which Small Microwave Has Child Safety Lock?
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7, Farberware Countertop Microwave, and TOSHIBA EM925A5A-BS all feature child safety locks. These locks ensure safe usage, especially in homes with children. They prevent accidental operation and enhance safety.
What Is The Best Small Microwave For Dorms?
The Farberware Countertop Microwave and Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 are ideal for dorms. They are compact, easy to clean, and have child locks. Their small size and convenient features make them perfect for limited spaces.
How Powerful Are Small Microwave Ovens?
Small microwave ovens generally range from 700W to 1200W. The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is 700W, while the Panasonic NN-SN686S is 1200W. Power affects cooking speed and efficiency.
Which Small Microwave Is Easy To Clean?
The Farberware Countertop Microwave and TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS are easy to clean. They feature easy-clean interiors and removable turntables. These features make maintenance simple and hassle-free.
Do Small Microwaves Have Smart Features?
Yes, some small microwaves like TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS have smart features. These include humidity sensors, auto menus, and ECO modes. These features enhance user experience and efficiency.
Conclusion
Choosing the best small microwave oven depends on your needs and kitchen space. Each model discussed offers unique features. The black+decker em720cb7 is perfect for compact spaces. The farberware models are ideal for dorms and apartments. The toshiba em131a5c-bs provides advanced features with a larger capacity.
Panasonic’s microwave oven offers powerful cooking with inverter technology. The galanz retro microwave adds a stylish touch to your kitchen. The toshiba em925a5a-bs combines convenience and power. Finally, the ge gcst10a1wss offers versatile cooking options. Consider factors like size, power, and special features.
With these options, finding the best small microwave oven for your needs becomes easier. Make your kitchen more efficient with the right choice. Happy cooking!