8 Best Small Microwaves for Small Kitchens (October 2026)

The best small microwaves for small kitchens include the COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven for a compact white microwave, the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven for a larger cooking cavity, and the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. for low clearance.

On this page (7 sections)

1. How we chose small microwaves for small kitchens
2. Compare the best microwaves for small kitchens
3. The best microwave for a small kitchen by need
4. What should you measure before choosing a compact microwave?
5. When does a small microwave stop being the right choice?
6. Are countertop microwaves the only option for a small kitchen?
7. Which small microwave should you choose?

The best microwave for a small kitchen is the COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven for its 17.3 in width, 12.7 in depth and useful mute function. If your kitchen has tighter vertical space, consider the Chefman; if you can spare a larger footprint, the Toshiba gives you a 1.2 cu ft cavity.

Small kitchens need a microwave that fits the counter without taking over the prep area. We compared the stated exterior dimensions, capacity and features to find compact countertop options for different layouts.

Our picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for a compact white microwave

   COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for a larger cooking cavity

   TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for low clearance

   Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

4. 4

   BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven

   Best for simple stainless styling
   Check it
5. 5

   Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 cu.ft.

   Best for multi-stage cooking
   Check it
6. 6

   BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop

   Best for more interior room
   Check it
7. 7

   Frigidaire

   Best for a shallow counter
   Check it
8. 8

   BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu.Ft

   Best for a low-profile black finish
   Check it

How we chose small microwaves for small kitchens

The best small microwaves for small kitchens balance a compact footprint with enough capacity for the dishes you use. We compared the listed dimensions, cooking capacity and controls, then matched each model to a clear space or feature need.

Width and depth matter most when the microwave shares a counter with a kettle, toaster or cutting board. Height matters too when upper cabinets sit close above the work surface.

Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for. Measure your available space and check the clearance requirements in the manual before you choose.

Compare the best microwaves for small kitchens

The COMFEE' and Chefman have compact 0.7 cu ft cavities, while the larger Toshiba and BLACK+DECKER models trade more counter space for greater capacity. Compare the dimensions against your kitchen before weighing preset buttons or sensor features.

The best microwave for a small kitchen by need

The COMFEE' is the strongest fit for a compact counter when you want a white finish and quiet controls. Each of these picks meets a different need, from low height to a roomier cooking cavity.

1

COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for a compact white microwave

9.7/10Our score

• 0.7 cu ft capacity
• 17.3 in wide x 12.7 in deep x 10.2 in high
• 700 W
• Mute function and ECO mode

Its compact footprint and white finish suit a small counter, while one-touch cooking and a mute function cover everyday reheating.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Compact dimensions
• Mute function
• ECO mode

Cons

• 0.7 cu ft cavity may limit larger dishes
• 700 W output

The COMFEE' measures 17.3 in wide, 12.7 in deep and 10.2 in high, so it takes less counter depth than many larger models. Its 0.7 cu ft capacity and 700 W output suit everyday reheating and smaller dishes.

The mute function turns off the beeps, and ECO mode can reduce standby power use. One-touch settings cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and reheating.

This is a useful match if you want a compact white microwave with straightforward controls. The two-step child lock is also a practical feature in a home where children might reach the controls.

2

TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for a larger cooking cavity

9.7/10Our score

• 1.2 cu ft capacity
• 20.6 in wide x 14.6 in deep x 11.8 in high
• 1000 W
• Humidity sensor

The Toshiba offers more interior capacity and sensor cooking, but its wider and deeper body needs more counter space.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Larger 1.2 cu ft capacity
• Humidity sensor
• 1000 W output

Cons

• Largest footprint in this roundup
• Needs a deeper counter

The Toshiba is the largest pick here, with a 1.2 cu ft cavity and 1000 W output. Its 20.6 in width and 14.6 in depth make it a better match for a small kitchen with a generous counter than for a narrow worktop.

Its humidity sensor adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity. You also get 10 power levels, six preset menus, a mute function and ECO mode.

Choose it when you want more interior room and can spare the counter space. If you need the smallest practical footprint, one of the 0.7 cu ft models will be easier to place.

3

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.: Best for low clearance

9.7/10Our score

• 0.7 cu ft capacity
• 17.52 in wide x 12.93 in deep x 9.53 in high
• 700 W
• Mute button

Its 9.53 in height can suit a counter with limited vertical clearance. The controls include 10 power levels and a mute button.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Lowest height among these picks
• 10 power levels
• Mute button

Cons

• 0.7 cu ft capacity
• Slightly wider than some compact options

The Chefman has the shortest height in this roundup at 9.53 in, with a 17.52 in width and 12.93 in depth. That low profile can help where an upper cabinet leaves little room above the counter.

It has 10 power levels, six cooking presets, a child safety lock and a mute button. The 0.7 cu ft capacity and 700 W output are in line with the other compact models here.

Choose it when height is the main fit problem. For a narrower counter, compare its width and depth with the COMFEE' and Farberware before deciding.

4

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

9.6/10Our score

• 0.7 cu ft capacity
• 17.3 in wide x 13 in deep x 10.2 in high
• 700 W
• Removable 10 in glass turntable

This 0.7 cu ft model pairs a stainless steel exterior with a removable glass turntable and one-touch food buttons.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Compact 17.3 in width
• Removable turntable
• Push-button door release

Cons

• 700 W output
• 13 in depth before allowing for clearance

This BLACK+DECKER model measures 17.3 in wide, 13 in deep and 10.2 in high. It gives you a stainless steel finish, 0.7 cu ft capacity and a removable 10 in glass turntable.

The controls include 10 power settings and preset buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and dinner plates. A push-button door release provides easy access.

Consider it if you want stainless styling and a familiar compact footprint. Leave room for the door to open and for ventilation around the cabinet.

5

Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 cu.ft.: Best for multi-stage cooking

9.5/10Our score

• 0.7 cu ft capacity
• 17.3 in wide x 12.99 in deep x 10.14 in high
• 700 W
• 10 power levels and multi-stage cooking

Ten power levels and multi-stage cooking give you more control over a small countertop microwave.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Compact width
• Multi-stage cooking
• Defrost by weight or time

Cons

• 700 W output
• 0.7 cu ft cooking space

Farberware's 0.7 cu ft model measures 17.3 in wide, 12.99 in deep and 10.14 in high. It has 700 W output, a child safety lock and 10 power levels.

Its multi-stage cooking feature can run sequential cooking steps, while defrosting can be set by weight or time. Six one-touch options cover common foods such as popcorn, potato and pizza.

This model suits a small kitchen where you want cooking controls beyond quick reheating. Compare its depth with the COMFEE' if the counter is especially shallow.

6

BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop: Best for more interior room

9.5/10Our score

• 1.1 cu ft capacity
• 20.6 in wide x 14.8 in deep x 11.8 in high
• 1000 W
• Removable 12.4 in glass turntable

This larger countertop model fits buyers who can spare extra counter space and want a 1.1 cu ft cavity with 1000 W output.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• More capacity than 0.7 cu ft models
• 1000 W output
• Removable turntable

Cons

• 20.6 in width
• 14.8 in depth

The BLACK+DECKER 1.1 cu ft model offers 1000 W output and a 12.4 in glass turntable, but it needs a 20.6 in wide by 14.8 in deep space. It belongs on this list for kitchens where the counter is limited but not extremely tight.

Ten power settings and six preset buttons give it flexibility for reheating and defrosting. The removable turntable and push-button door release are useful everyday details.

Choose this model if you often use larger dishes and can spare the extra counter area. If depth is the main constraint, the Frigidaire is notably shallower.

7

Frigidaire: Best for a shallow counter

8.9/10Our score

• 0.7 cu ft capacity
• 17.8 in wide x 12.3 in deep x 10.2 in high
• 700 W
• Six one-touch cooking menus

Its 12.3 in depth makes it a useful option for a shallow countertop, with auto defrost and one-touch cooking menus.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Shallow 12.3 in depth
• 10 power levels
• Removable glass turntable

Cons

• 700 W output
• Wider than the narrowest picks

The Frigidaire is just 12.3 in deep, the shallowest model in this roundup. Its 17.8 in width and 10.2 in height still require a measured counter, but the depth can help when workspace is short.

It has a 0.7 cu ft capacity, 700 W output, 10 power levels and six one-touch cooking menus. Auto defrost and a removable glass turntable add useful functions for daily use.

Choose it if your available counter depth is the key limit. For a white compact option, see our best small white microwave.

8

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu.Ft: Best for a low-profile black finish

8.4/10Our score

• 0.7 cu ft capacity
• 17.1 in wide x 12.3 in deep x 9.5 in high
• 700 W
• Six presets and 10 power levels

The compact black model has a low 9.5 in profile and six preset menus, making it a fit for tight counter space.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Small stated dimensions
• Six preset menus
• 10 power levels

Cons

• 0.7 cu ft capacity
• 700 W output

This BLACK+DECKER model measures 17.1 in wide, 12.3 in deep and 9.5 in high, giving it one of the smallest stated footprints here. It has a 0.7 cu ft capacity, 700 W output and a black finish.

Six preset menus cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and dinner plate reheating. It also offers 10 power levels, express cooking and multi-stage cooking.

Choose it for a low-profile black microwave that needs little counter space. Check the available width and clearance before ordering, especially if the microwave will sit below cabinets.

What should you measure before choosing a compact microwave?

Measure the counter's usable width, depth and height, then compare each dimension with the microwave's exterior size. Leave room for the door to open and follow the manufacturer's instructions for ventilation clearances.

Depth is easy to overlook because the microwave may sit near a wall or backsplash. Check whether the cord, plug and required rear clearance reduce the space you can actually use.

Our guide to space between a microwave and the wall explains why a close fit can block airflow. If you're trying to fit a wider model into a narrow cabinet area, read whether a wider microwave can fit in a narrower cabinet space.

When does a small microwave stop being the right choice?

A compact microwave may be too small if your regular dishes do not fit or you want more capacity for family meals. Compare the interior and turntable dimensions with your largest plate, bowl or food container before you choose.

The larger Toshiba and BLACK+DECKER models offer 1.2 cu ft and 1.1 cu ft capacities, respectively. Their wider and deeper bodies need more counter space, so measure first rather than assuming capacity alone will make them a better fit.

For more compact options, see our best small countertop microwave. If you need a microwave outside the main kitchen, our guide to the best small microwave for an office covers that use.

Are countertop microwaves the only option for a small kitchen?

No. A countertop model is simple to place, but built-in and drawer models can free counter space if your kitchen supports the installation and you can meet the required electrical and cabinet specifications.

A drawer oven can work well when bending to a low appliance is comfortable and the cabinet is built for it. Compare options in our guide to the best microwave drawer oven, and check installation requirements before planning a remodel.

Which small microwave should you choose?

Choose the COMFEE' for a compact white model with a mute function, the Chefman if low height is your main concern, or the Frigidaire for a shallow counter. Pick the Toshiba or larger BLACK+DECKER only when you can spare extra counter space for more cooking capacity.

A smaller microwave works best when your everyday dishes fit and you can leave the required clearances. Pair it with containers that suit your cooking and storage routine, such as these glass food storage containers.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for a compact white microwave

   COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for a larger cooking cavity

   TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for low clearance

   Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What size microwave works best in a small kitchen?

A 0.7 cu ft countertop microwave is a practical starting point for a small kitchen, with examples here measuring about 17 to 18 in wide and 12 to 13 in deep. Measure the available counter and allow for the clearances in the manual before choosing a model.

If you regularly heat larger dishes, compare the interior capacity and turntable size too.

How do I measure for a small countertop microwave?

Measure the usable counter width, depth and height, including space below cabinets. Compare those measurements with the microwave's exterior dimensions and its required ventilation clearances.

Also check that the door can open fully and that the microwave can sit near a suitable outlet without blocking your work area.

Is a 0.7 cu ft microwave big enough for dinner plates?

It can be, depending on the plate's diameter and the turntable. Before buying, compare your largest plate with the microwave's interior and turntable measurements, since capacity alone does not tell you whether a dish will rotate freely.

A removable turntable can make cleaning easier, but it does not increase the cavity size.

Should I choose a 700 W or 1000 W microwave?

Choose based on your available space and cooking needs. The compact 0.7 cu ft models here have 700 W output, while the larger Toshiba and BLACK+DECKER models provide 1000 W.

Check the cooking instructions for your usual foods, and expect to adjust heating time when moving between different power levels.

Can I put a microwave in a cabinet?

Only if the model is designed for that placement and you can meet its ventilation requirements. A countertop model's compact size does not automatically make it safe to enclose.

Check the manual for required clearances, airflow and electrical guidance before placing a microwave in a cabinet.