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9 Best Low Profile Microwave Countertop (November 2026)

Updated on · By the Microwave Doctor team

The best low profile countertop microwaves include the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven for maximum capacity in a low cabinet, the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. for the shortest countertop fit, and the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven for compact stainless styling.

On this page (4 sections)
  1. The best low profile countertop microwaves for different kitchens
  2. How to choose a low profile countertop microwave
  3. How to place and care for a low profile microwave
  4. Which low profile countertop microwave should you buy?

The best low profile microwave countertop pick is the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven, which combines an 11.8 in height with a 1.2 cu. ft. capacity and 1000W output. It suits kitchens where you want a larger interior but cannot use a taller appliance.

Choose Chefman or the 0.7 cu. ft. BLACK+DECKER model when every inch of height matters.

Those cabinets sit near 9.5 in tall, which can make a real difference under a low shelf.

A low profile countertop microwave is useful when upper cabinets, shelves or a short counter opening limit vertical space. The goal is not simply to find the shortest appliance.

You also need enough depth, width, turntable room and ventilation space for safe daily use. A model that clears the shelf may still crowd the counter or block airflow.

Height is the first check, but it should not be the only one. Measure the opening, the counter depth and the space beside the appliance before you compare features.

Capacity then decides what you can actually cook and reheat. Larger interiors suit family plates and meal containers, while compact interiors suit single portions and drinks.

Power affects how quickly food heats and how much control you have over delicate tasks. Higher output can help with larger portions, while lower power settings help with softening and defrosting.

Controls matter in daily use, especially for shared kitchens. Presets save time for common foods, while sensor, mute, ECO and child lock features fit specific homes and routines.

If your space is tight in more than one direction, compare these picks with our guide to the best microwave for small spaces. For a shallow counter, our list of the best shallow depth microwave options may be more useful.

Use the links above when fit is limited by footprint as well as height. That wider comparison can reveal models that suit a narrow or shallow counter better than a straight height ranking.

The picks in this roundup cover that range from short cabinets to larger interiors. Each one trades height, depth, width, capacity and controls in a different way.

Start with your tightest measurement and work outward from there. That approach keeps the choice practical and avoids buying a low appliance that still does not fit the space.

Our picks at a glance

  1. 1 TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven
    Best for maximum capacity in a low cabinet

    TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven

    9.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  2. 2 Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
    Best for the shortest countertop fit

    Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

    9.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  3. 3 BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven
    Best for compact stainless styling

    BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven

    9.6/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  1. 4COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven

    COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven

    Best for quiet apartment kitchens
    Check it
  2. 5GE Profile Countertop Microwave 800W 1.1 Cu.

    GE Profile Countertop Microwave 800W 1.1 Cu.

    Best for smart countertop control
    Check it
  3. 6BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu.FtCheck it
  4. 7BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven

    BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven

    Best for a larger compact interior
    Check it
  5. 8Frigidaire

    Frigidaire

    Best for retro kitchen style
    Check it
  6. 9Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 cu.ft.Check it

The best low profile countertop microwaves for different kitchens

The TOSHIBA is the strongest capacity choice, while Chefman and BLACK+DECKER offer the shortest cabinets. The right pick depends on whether your limiting measurement is height, depth, width or interior capacity.

A short cabinet can suit a tight shelf, but a deep body may still overhang a shallow counter. A wide body can also crowd nearby appliances even when the height looks right.

Capacity changes the daily trade-off in a different way. Larger interiors handle bigger plates more easily, while smaller interiors keep the outside dimensions down.

Power and controls add another layer to the comparison. Higher output, sensor cooking, presets, mute and child lock features suit different routines and shared spaces.

Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against the needs of someone shopping for a low profile microwave countertop model. It is a guide, not a substitute for measuring your own space.

Read each pick with your limiting measurement in mind. The best model for a low shelf may not be the best model for a narrow counter.

ProductBest forCapacitySize (W x D x H)PowerOur score
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Ovenmaximum capacity in a low cabinet1.2 cu. ft.20.6 x 14.6 x 11.8 in1000W output9.7
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.the shortest countertop fit0.7 cu. ft.17.52 x 12.93 x 9.53 in700W9.7
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Ovencompact stainless styling0.7 cu. ft.17.3 x 13 x 10.2 in700W9.6
COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Ovenquiet apartment kitchens0.7 cu. ft.17.3 x 13 x 10.2 in700W9.4
GE Profile Countertop Microwave 800W 1.1 Cu.smart countertop control1.1 cu. ft.24 x 12.87 x 11.87 in800W9.3
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu.Ftmulti-stage cooking0.7 cu. ft.700W8.4
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Ovena larger compact interior0.9 cu. ft.18.7 x 13.4 x 10.68 in900W8.1
Frigidaireretro kitchen style0.7 cu. ft.18.9 x 13.27 x 11.52 in700W8.0
Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 cu.ft.simple preset cooking0.7 cu. ft.17.3 x 12.99 x 10.14 in700W7.8
1

TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for maximum capacity in a low cabinet

TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven, low profile countertop microwaves
9.7/10Our score
  • 11.8 in height
  • 1.2 cu. ft. capacity
  • 1000W output
  • 12.4 in glass turntable
  • Smart humidity sensor

The TOSHIBA gives you the largest capacity and highest output in this group while staying under 12 in tall. Its sensor cooking, preset menus and 10 power levels suit varied daily meals.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Largest capacity here
  • Highest output here
  • Smart humidity sensor

Cons

  • Taller than the compact 0.7 cu. ft. models
  • Needs 14.6 in of depth

The TOSHIBA is the best overall choice when you need a larger interior without moving to a tall appliance. Its 1.2 cu. ft. capacity is the largest in this group, and the 20.6 in width leaves room for a 12.4 in glass turntable.

At 11.8 in tall, it is not the shortest pick, but it remains lower than many standard countertop microwaves. Check the cabinet opening before buying, especially if the microwave will sit below a shelf.

The 1000W output is the highest here. That gives you more cooking power for everyday reheating, while 10 power levels let you reduce power for tasks such as softening or defrosting.

Smart Sensor Technology adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity. Six preset menus, one-touch start and defrost by weight or time add useful shortcuts.

Choose TOSHIBA when you want the most interior room and output. Pick a shorter 0.7 cu. ft. model when the opening is below 11.8 in.

TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave OvenCheck it on Amazon
2

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.: Best for the shortest countertop fit

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., low profile countertop microwaves
9.7/10Our score
  • 9.53 in height
  • 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
  • 700W output
  • 10 power levels
  • Mute button

Chefman is the shortest model here, making it a strong fit where cabinet height is the main limit. Six presets, a child safety lock and a mute option cover common countertop needs.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Shortest height here
  • Mute option
  • Glass turntable is top-rack dishwasher safe

Cons

  • Small capacity
  • 700W output takes longer than the 1000W TOSHIBA

Chefman is the shortest microwave in this roundup at 9.53 in tall. That makes it a strong choice for a shelf or cabinet opening where a 10 in appliance would be too high.

Its 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and 17.52 x 12.93 in footprint suit smaller plates, leftovers and single-serving meals. It fits best where height is tight and dishes are modest in size.

The 700W output is adequate for basic reheating, though it may take longer than the TOSHIBA's 1000W output. Lower power levels can help with gentler tasks such as melting or warming, while full power suits quick reheating.

Six presets cover popcorn, pizza, beverages, vegetables, potatoes and leftovers. You can also use 10 power levels, the +30 seconds button and defrost controls for foods that need more attention.

The mute button helps in bedrooms, offices and shared homes where cooking beeps are unwanted. A child safety lock adds another control for households with children.

Set-up is simple because the controls are familiar. Leave the required clearance around the cabinet and keep the vents clear during use.

Care is also straightforward for daily spills. Wipe the interior and exterior with a damp cloth, and wash the glass turntable, which is top-rack dishwasher safe, with care.

Choose Chefman for the lowest cabinet height. Choose the BLACK+DECKER 0.7 cu. ft. model if you want a stainless steel exterior and interior light instead.

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.Check it on Amazon
3

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for compact stainless styling

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven, low profile countertop microwaves
9.6/10Our score
  • 10.2 in height
  • 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
  • 700W output
  • 10 power settings
  • Removable 10 in glass turntable

This BLACK+DECKER keeps the cabinet short while adding a stainless steel exterior, interior light and push-button door release. Its preset buttons cover popcorn, potato, pizza, vegetables, beverages and dinner plates.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Short 10.2 in height
  • Stainless steel finish
  • Interior light

Cons

  • 700W output
  • 10 in turntable limits dish size

This BLACK+DECKER model suits a compact kitchen that still benefits from a stainless steel finish. It measures 17.3 in wide, 13 in deep and 10.2 in tall, so it fits below many short shelves.

The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity is compact, and the removable 10 in glass turntable gives you a clear limit for round dishes. Measure your regular plates before you assume a larger dish will fit and turn freely.

Its 700W output and 10 power settings cover routine reheating and cooking. Lower settings help with delicate foods, while full power handles standard reheating tasks.

Six pre-programmed buttons handle popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate settings. That preset set suits common snacks and meals without manual time entry.

The large LED display shows the clock, timer and remaining cooking time. Those details help when the microwave is used as part of a daily kitchen routine.

A push-button door release provides easy access, while the interior light lets you see the food while it runs. The child safety lock is useful in shared kitchens.

For care, wipe spills promptly and clean the removable turntable separately. Keep the exterior clean with a damp cloth and check that the door closes firmly after cleaning.

Choose this model for stainless styling and straightforward controls. If silence matters more than the finish, compare it with the COMFEE' model below.

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave OvenCheck it on Amazon
4

COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for quiet apartment kitchens

COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven, low profile countertop microwaves
9.4/10Our score
  • 10.2 in height
  • 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
  • 700W output
  • Mute function
  • ECO mode

The COMFEE' matches the BLACK+DECKER compact footprint and adds mute and ECO modes. It suits dorms, offices, apartments and other spaces where beeps and standby display light are distractions.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Mute function
  • ECO mode
  • Two-step child lock

Cons

  • 700W output
  • 0.7 cu. ft. capacity

The COMFEE' is a practical fit for an apartment, dorm or office where quiet operation and low standby use matter. Its 10.2 in height matches the compact BLACK+DECKER, and its 17.3 x 13 in footprint is easy to compare with a shelf.

The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and 700W output suit everyday reheating. It works best for single portions, drinks, leftovers and smaller plates.

One-touch cooking includes popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and reheat. Those presets reduce button presses for the foods people heat most often.

The mute function turns off cooking beeps, while ECO mode reduces standby power use by turning off the LED display. That combination suits shared rooms where sound and light can be distracting.

A two-step child lock adds protection against accidental use. It is a useful extra in a family kitchen or shared housing.

You can defrost by weight or time, start one to six minutes with express cooking and add 30 seconds during cooking. That flexibility helps when a preset does not match the portion.

The microwave includes the oven and a manual instruction book. Set it on a firm counter, leave ventilation space and keep the interior clean after spills.

Choose COMFEE' when quiet controls and ECO mode matter. Choose Chefman if you need the shortest height in the group.

COMFEE' Countertop Microwave OvenCheck it on Amazon
5

GE Profile Countertop Microwave 800W 1.1 Cu.: Best for smart countertop control

GE Profile Countertop Microwave 800W 1.1 Cu., low profile countertop microwaves
9.3/10Our score
  • 11.87 in height
  • 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
  • 800W output
  • Wi-Fi connectivity
  • Scan-to-Cook technology

GE Profile combines a low-height cabinet with a 1.1 cu. ft. interior, Wi-Fi connectivity and Scan-to-Cook technology. Its 24 in width needs more counter space than every other pick here.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Large 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
  • Wi-Fi connectivity
  • Scan-to-Cook technology

Cons

  • Widest model here
  • Optional hanging kit is sold separately

GE Profile is the premium feature choice for buyers who want a smart countertop microwave with a larger interior. It measures 24 in wide, 12.87 in deep and 11.87 in tall, so height is modest but width is substantial.

The 1.1 cu. ft. capacity sits just below the TOSHIBA's 1.2 cu. ft. The 800W output, sensor cooking and 10 power levels support regular meals, reheating and defrosting.

Wi-Fi connectivity works with Alexa and Google Assistant. Scan-to-Cook technology adjusts settings according to package instructions after scanning a barcode.

One-touch controls and four convenience cook settings simplify routine use. A child lock is available, and an optional hanging kit supports under-cabinet installation.

The main trade-off is counter width. Measure the full 24 in span, side clearance and airflow space before choosing it.

The stated clearance is 3 in on each side and above, with 1 in at the rear and an unobstructed bottom.

GE Profile Countertop Microwave 800W 1.1 Cu.Check it on Amazon
6

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu.Ft: Best for multi-stage cooking

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu.Ft, low profile countertop microwaves
8.4/10Our score
  • 9.5 in height
  • 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
  • 700W output
  • 10 power levels
  • Multi-stage cooking

This BLACK+DECKER is one of the shortest options and supports programmed steps such as defrost followed by reheating. Its 17.1 x 12.3 in footprint works well when both height and counter depth are tight.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 9.5 in height
  • Multi-stage cooking
  • Child safety lock

Cons

  • 700W output
  • Plastic material type

This BLACK+DECKER is one of the shortest options at 9.5 in tall. Its 17.1 x 12.3 in footprint also helps when both vertical space and counter depth are limited.

The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and 700W output suit standard reheating and small meals. It is aimed at compact spaces rather than large family dishes.

Ten power levels give you more control than the Frigidaire's five levels. That wider range helps when you need to soften, defrost or warm food more gently.

Its six one-touch presets cover beverages, frozen vegetables, pizza, popcorn, potato and dinner plate reheat. Express cooking starts quickly for common reheating tasks.

Multi-stage cooking can move from defrost to reheat without separate manual steps. That suits frozen meals when you want the sequence handled in one cycle.

The child safety lock and easy-clean interior suit shared kitchens. The black finish works well where a darker appliance is preferred.

For daily care, clean spills soon after they happen and wipe the exterior with a damp cloth. Keep the vents unobstructed and return the turntable to its ring before cooking.

Choose this model when the 9.5 in height is more useful than a mute button or stainless steel finish. For a similar short height with a mute option, Chefman is the closer alternative.

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu.FtCheck it on Amazon
7

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for a larger compact interior

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven, low profile countertop microwaves
8.1/10Our score
  • 10.68 in height
  • 0.9 cu. ft. capacity
  • 900W output
  • 10 power levels
  • 10.6 in glass turntable

This model adds capacity and output over the 0.7 cu. ft. picks without reaching the height of the larger TOSHIBA or GE Profile. It is a useful middle option for larger plates and faster reheating.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 0.9 cu. ft. capacity
  • 900W output
  • 10.6 in glass turntable

Cons

  • Deeper than the shortest models
  • Enclosure is black despite the stainless steel door frame

This BLACK+DECKER gives you more room than the 0.7 cu. ft. models while staying only 10.68 in tall. Its 18.7 in width and 13.4 in depth need more counter space, but the larger cabinet can be easier for bigger dishes.

The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity pairs with 900W output and 10 power levels. A removable 10.6 in glass turntable gives you a little more dish room than the 10 in turntable on the smaller BLACK+DECKER.

Six preset buttons cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and dinner plates. The LED display includes a clock, kitchen timer and remaining cooking time.

The push-button door, child safety lock and interior light keep the controls familiar. The stainless steel door frame contrasts with the black enclosure, so check the finish if matching appliances matters.

Choose this model for a middle ground between compact height and interior space. Choose TOSHIBA for even more capacity, or the 0.7 cu. ft. models for a smaller footprint.

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave OvenCheck it on Amazon
8

Frigidaire: Best for retro kitchen style

Frigidaire, low profile countertop microwaves
8.0/10Our score
  • 11.52 in height
  • 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
  • 700W output
  • 8 auto cook menus
  • 5 power levels

Frigidaire brings a retro black and gold finish to a compact 0.7 cu. ft. countertop microwave. Eight auto cook menus and auto defrost keep daily controls simple, while five power levels offer less adjustment than most picks.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Retro black and gold style
  • 8 auto cook menus
  • Auto defrost

Cons

  • Only 5 power levels
  • Taller than the shortest 0.7 cu. ft. models

Frigidaire is the style-led option in this roundup. Its retro black and gold finish gives a compact countertop microwave a different look from the stainless steel and plain black models.

At 11.52 in tall, it is shorter than the TOSHIBA but taller than Chefman and the short BLACK+DECKER. That height still suits many low cabinets, but it needs a careful check under shelves.

The 18.9 x 13.27 in footprint and 0.7 cu. ft. capacity suit small kitchens, offices and dorm rooms. It is best for smaller plates and single portions.

The 700W output provides basic cooking power. It handles everyday reheating, though larger portions can take longer than with higher-output models.

Eight auto cook menus cover common foods such as popcorn, pizza, beverages and frozen dinners, while auto defrost calculates defrosting time and power. Those presets keep routine use simple.

The main control trade-off is the five power levels. That is less adjustment than the 10 levels offered by most other models here.

The glass turntable helps promote even heating during cooking. It also makes cleaning easier because the plate can be removed and washed.

Choose Frigidaire when retro styling and simple presets matter more than the lowest height or widest power range.

9

Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 cu.ft.: Best for simple preset cooking

Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 cu.ft., low profile countertop microwaves
7.8/10Our score
  • 10.14 in height
  • 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
  • 700W output
  • 10 power levels
  • Defrost by weight or time

Farberware offers a compact stainless steel body with six one-touch options, 10 power levels and two defrost methods. It fits buyers who want familiar controls without smart connectivity.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 10 power levels
  • Defrost by weight or time
  • Child safety lock

Cons

  • 700W output
  • 0.7 cu. ft. capacity

Farberware is a straightforward compact choice with a stainless steel finish and a 10.14 in height. Its 17.3 in width and 12.99 in depth fit the same general counter space as several 0.7 cu. ft. competitors.

The 700W output, 10 power levels and multi-stage cooking cover more than basic timed reheating. That control range suits a mix of reheating, cooking and defrosting tasks.

Defrost by weight or time gives you two ways to handle frozen food. Weight defrost suits packaged items, while time defrost gives you manual control.

Six one-touch options include popcorn, potato and pizza. The other presets cover common foods without entering a cook time.

The LED display shows the clock, kitchen timer and remaining cook time, while interior lighting helps you monitor the dish. Those basics keep the controls easy to read during use.

A child safety lock adds protection in a shared home. It is useful when children can reach the counter or when guests use the kitchen.

The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity remains the main limit, so check your largest regular plate before choosing it. A dish that fits by width may still be too tall or too deep.

Pick Farberware for familiar controls, stainless styling and flexible defrosting. Choose COMFEE' for a mute function or Chefman for the shortest cabinet.

Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 cu.ft.Check it on Amazon

How to choose a low profile countertop microwave

Start with the opening height, then check width, depth and required airflow. A microwave that fits vertically can still be too deep for the counter or too wide for the space between cabinets.

What height should you measure?

Measure from the counter surface to the lowest shelf or cabinet point. Compare that number with the microwave's full height, then leave the clearance required by the model's instructions.

The shortest picks here are the 9.5 in BLACK+DECKER and the 9.53 in Chefman. The TOSHIBA, GE Profile and Frigidaire are all above 11 in.

How much counter depth do you need?

Depth matters when the counter is shallow or sits near a walkway. Chefman is 12.93 in deep, the short BLACK+DECKER is 12.3 in deep, and the GE Profile is 12.87 in deep.

The GE Profile is only slightly deeper than those compact models, but its 24 in width needs more side-to-side space. TOSHIBA needs 14.6 in of depth, the largest depth in this group.

Is 0.7 cu. ft. enough?

A 0.7 cu. ft. microwave can suit single portions, drinks, leftovers and smaller plates. Measure the dishes you use most often because outside dimensions do not reveal the usable interior shape.

Choose 0.9 to 1.2 cu. ft. when you regularly reheat larger plates or meal containers. The BLACK+DECKER 0.9 cu. ft., GE Profile 1.1 cu. ft. and TOSHIBA 1.2 cu. ft. provide the most interior room here.

Does higher wattage matter?

Higher output generally means more cooking power for the same task, but the correct time still depends on the food and portion. This group ranges from 700W to 1000W.

The TOSHIBA has the highest output at 1000W. The BLACK+DECKER 0.9 cu. ft. follows at 900W, while GE Profile provides 800W and most compact picks provide 700W.

What countertop features are worth paying attention to?

Prioritize the features that match your kitchen. A mute button helps in quiet spaces, ECO mode reduces standby display use, and a child lock helps in shared homes.

Sensor cooking can adjust cooking time based on humidity. That can suit reheating when you want the microwave to respond to the food rather than a fixed time alone.

Smart features such as Wi-Fi and Scan-to-Cook are available on the GE Profile, but they come with a much wider 24 in cabinet. Voice control and barcode scanning only help if the width and clearance still fit your counter.

Presets are worth attention when you cook the same foods often. Popcorn, pizza, potato, vegetables, beverages and dinner plate settings cover many daily tasks, but portion size still matters.

Defrost choices also change daily use. Defrost by weight suits packaged food, while defrost by time suits items without a clear weight or label.

Power levels help with foods that need gentler heating. Melting, softening and warming often need less than full power, while reheating usually needs more.

Turntable size and removable glass can affect both fit and cleaning. A larger turntable suits bigger dishes, while a removable plate is easier to wash after a spill.

Clearance is a feature you cannot skip. Side, rear, top and bottom space affect airflow and safe placement, so check the instructions for the exact model.

If you are considering a different color, compare these options with our guide to the best small white microwave. For more compact countertop models, see the best small countertop microwave roundup.

Match the feature set to the room and the routine. A quiet kitchen, a family kitchen and a smart kitchen do not need the same controls.

How to place and care for a low profile microwave

Set the microwave on a firm, level countertop with its ventilation areas unobstructed. Do not push it tightly against a wall or shelf until you have checked the model's required clearances.

Clearance matters because heat needs room to move away from the cabinet. Crowding the sides, rear or top can affect safe use and performance.

Keep the interior clean after spills, and use a damp cloth for the exterior. Prompt cleaning helps prevent odours and makes the next use easier.

Removable glass turntables should be handled carefully during cleaning and returned to the roller ring before use. Check that the plate sits correctly so it can rotate without wobbling.

Use microwave-safe cookware and follow the food package instructions when available. Package directions often reflect portion size and power needs.

Do not rely on a preset as a guarantee that every portion will heat evenly. Larger or denser portions may need stirring, standing time or extra cooking.

Keep the door seal area clean and free from food residue. A clean seal helps the door close properly and keeps the interior tidy.

Place the microwave where it will not be bumped or moved during use. A stable position reduces spills and makes the controls easier to reach.

Check the cord and outlet before set-up. The microwave should have direct access to power without stretching the cord across the counter.

Which low profile countertop microwave should you buy?

Choose the TOSHIBA if you want the largest capacity and strongest output while staying under 12 in tall. Its 1.2 cu. ft. interior and 1000W output suit varied daily meals.

Choose Chefman if the shortest possible cabinet is the main goal. At 9.53 in tall, it fits where a 10 in appliance may not clear the opening.

Pick the compact BLACK+DECKER or COMFEE' for a 10.2 in height, and choose the shorter BLACK+DECKER when 9.5 in matters. Each suits a different balance of finish, controls and quiet features.

The GE Profile is best when smart controls and 1.1 cu. ft. capacity justify its 24 in width. Wi-Fi connectivity and Scan-to-Cook suit connected kitchens, but width is the main trade-off.

For a middle-size interior, choose the 0.9 cu. ft. BLACK+DECKER.

Its 900W output and 10.68 in height sit between the compact and larger picks.

Pick Frigidaire for retro styling or Farberware for simple stainless controls with defrost by weight or time. Both suit buyers who prefer familiar controls over smart features.

Measure height, width, depth and clearance before you order. The best low profile model is the one that fits your space and your daily dishes, not only the shortest cabinet.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

  1. 1 TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven
    Best for maximum capacity in a low cabinet

    TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven

    9.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  2. 2 Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
    Best for the shortest countertop fit

    Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

    9.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  3. 3 BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven
    Best for compact stainless styling

    BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven

    9.6/10 our score

    See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What is the best low profile microwave countertop height?

The shortest models in this roundup are about 9.5 in tall. Chefman measures 9.53 in, while the BLACK+DECKER 0.7 cu. ft. model measures 9.5 in.

Measure the full opening and leave the clearance required by the chosen microwave before ordering.

Is a low profile countertop microwave the same as an over-the-range model?

No. A low profile countertop microwave is designed to sit on a counter.

An over-the-range model is designed for installation above a range and may include ventilation equipment.

Read our guide to [What Is a Low-Profile Over-the-Range Microwave?

What to Know](/what-is-a-low-profile-over-the-range-microwave/) before comparing the two types.

How much capacity do low profile countertop microwaves have?

The models here range from 0.7 to 1.2 cu. ft. Smaller 0.7 cu. ft. units save height and counter space, while the TOSHIBA and GE Profile offer larger interiors for bigger dishes.

Measure your regular plates and containers, not just the outside cabinet.

Can you put an over-the-range microwave on a countertop?

Some over-the-range microwaves may physically sit on a counter, but their ventilation, clearance and controls are designed for a different installation. Check the manufacturer instructions first.

See Can You Put an Over-the-Range Microwave on a Countertop? for the key checks.