7 Best Shallow-Depth Countertop Microwaves (November 2026)

The best shallow depth countertop microwaves include the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft. for balanced depth and controls, the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven for larger shallow-counter capacity, and the GE Profile Countertop Microwave 800W 1.1 Cu. for smart countertop control.

On this page (14 sections)

1. How we chose the best shallow depth microwaves
2. Shallow-depth microwave comparison
3. 1. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft.: Best for balanced depth and controls
4. 2. TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for larger shallow-counter capacity
5. 3. GE Profile Countertop Microwave 800W 1.1 Cu.: Best for smart countertop control
6. 4. Sharp SMC0962KS 0.9 cu. ft. 900W Stainless: Best for simple shallow cooking
7. 5. TOSHIBA Microwave Oven: Best for compact preset cooking
8. 6. GE Countertop Microwave: Best for the smallest footprint
9. 7. Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 cu.ft.: Best for compact multi-stage cooking
10. How do you measure for a shallow microwave depth?
11. Is a shallow microwave better for a small counter?
12. What should you check besides shallow microwave depth?
13. How should you place and clean a shallow countertop microwave?
14. Final verdict on the best shallow depth microwave

The best shallow depth microwave for most counters is the Chefman 0.9 cu. ft. model, because its 13.27 in depth pairs with 900 watts, 10 power levels and six presets. The GE Profile is shallower at 12.88 in, while the GE Countertop Microwave is the smallest overall option.

A shallow microwave depth matters when a counter ends near a walkway, backsplash, cabinet edge or appliance door. It also affects how far the microwave projects into the room, but depth alone does not tell you whether the door can open or whether the vents have enough room.

If you need a broader overview, compare these picks with our guide to the best microwave for small spaces. For a smaller appliance category, see the best small countertop microwave options.

Our picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for balanced depth and controls

   Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft.

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for larger shallow-counter capacity

   TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for smart countertop control

   GE Profile Countertop Microwave 800W 1.1 Cu.

   9.3/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

4. 4

   Sharp SMC0962KS 0.9 cu. ft. 900W Stainless

   Best for simple shallow cooking
   Check it
5. 5

   TOSHIBA Microwave Oven

   Best for compact preset cooking
   Check it
6. 6

   GE Countertop Microwave

   Best for the smallest footprint
   Check it
7. 7

   Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 cu.ft.

   Best for compact multi-stage cooking
   Check it

How we chose the best shallow depth microwaves

The best shallow depth microwaves balance front-to-back size with capacity, power and the clearance needed for safe countertop use. We compared the stated dimensions, cooking controls and daily-use features for counters with limited front clearance.

Depth came first, followed by width and height. A microwave that is short front to back may still need a wide counter, so the comparison considers all three dimensions where available.

We also looked at capacity and turntable size. A 0.7 cu. ft. microwave can save counter space, but a 1.1 or 1.2 cu. ft. model may handle larger plates more easily.

Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for. We did not treat a shallow cabinet as a reason to ignore airflow, door access or the usable counter area around the appliance.

Shallow-depth microwave comparison

The GE Profile has the shortest listed depth at 12.88 in, paired with 1.1 cu. ft. of capacity. That could suit a counter where the front edge is tight but there is room for a 24 in width.

The TOSHIBA 1.2 cu. ft. model gives you the most capacity in the group. Its 14.6 in depth means it projects farther than the compact picks, so check the walkway and door swing before choosing it.

The compact GE has the smallest width and depth combination at 17.31 in wide and 12.75 in deep. It also has the lowest power and capacity here at 700 watts and 0.7 cu. ft., which suits smaller dishes and snacks.

The Chefman and Sharp sit in the middle at about 13.2 in deep with 900 watts. The Farberware is similarly shallow at 12.99 in deep, though it also offers 700 watts.

Use depth as one part of the decision, not the only one. Width, height, turntable size and clearance needs can change which model fits your counter best.

1. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft.: Best for balanced depth and controls

1

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft.: Best for balanced depth and controls

9.7/10Our score

• 13.27 in depth
• 900 watts
• 10 power levels
• 6 cooking presets
• Mute button and child safety lock

The Chefman combines a shallow 13.27 in depth with 900 watts, 10 power levels and six presets. Its mute button, Eco Mode and child safety lock suit shared kitchens and family counters.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Shallow 13.27 in depth
• 900 watts with 10 power levels
• Mute button and Eco Mode

Cons

• 0.9 cu. ft. capacity is smaller than the 1.2 cu. ft. TOSHIBA
• Needs 3 in clearance on each side for airflow

The Chefman is the best shallow depth microwave for a counter that needs a practical balance between front-to-back size and cooking control. Its 13.27 in depth leaves a smaller projection than deeper full-size countertop models, while the 18.9 in width remains manageable for many kitchens.

At 900 watts, it has more output than the 700-watt compact models here. Ten power levels give you more control for tasks such as softening butter, warming food gently or cooking at full power.

Six presets cover popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes and leftovers. The +30 seconds button and one-touch express cooking also help with short reheating jobs.

The Chefman adds features that matter in shared spaces. Its mute button can silence alerts, while Eco Mode can disable the display when the microwave is not in use.

The child safety lock helps prevent unintended control-panel use.

The glass turntable is top-rack dishwasher safe, and the black exterior wipes clean with a damp towel. Choose it when you want more control than a basic compact microwave without moving up to a deeper cabinet.

2. TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for larger shallow-counter capacity

2

TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for larger shallow-counter capacity

9.7/10Our score

• 14.6 in depth
• 1.2 cu. ft. capacity
• 1000 watts
• Humidity sensor
• 12.4 in glass turntable

This TOSHIBA gives you the largest capacity in the group while keeping depth to 14.6 in. Its humidity sensor, 1000 watts and 12.4 in turntable suit larger plates and everyday meal reheating.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Largest 1.2 cu. ft. capacity
• 1000 watts
• Humidity sensor and 12.4 in turntable

Cons

• Deepest model in this roundup
• 20.6 in width needs a broad counter

The TOSHIBA 1.2 cu. ft. model is the best shallow depth microwave here for buyers who need more interior room. Its 14.6 in depth is greater than the compact picks, but the capacity and 12.4 in glass turntable may make that extra counter projection worthwhile.

Its 1000 watts suit frequent reheating and cooking. Ten power levels let you reduce the output when a dish needs gentler heating rather than full-power cooking.

The humidity sensor adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity. That can help with sensor cooking for common foods, while the six preset menus provide faster access to popular tasks.

This TOSHIBA also includes a clock and kitchen timer, plus defrosting by weight or time. One-touch start lets you begin 1 to 6 minutes of full-power cooking with the number keys.

Measure the full 20.6 in width and 14.6 in depth before choosing it. It is shallow compared with many larger appliances, but it is not the right fit for a very narrow counter.

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

3

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

9.3/10Our score

• 12.88 in depth
• 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
• Wi-Fi connectivity
• Scan-to-Cook technology
• Sensor cooking

The GE Profile has the shallowest stated depth here at 12.88 in, but it is also the widest at 24 in. Wi-Fi, Scan-to-Cook and sensor cooking make it a strong fit for connected kitchens.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Shortest depth in the group
• 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
• Wi-Fi and Scan-to-Cook technology

Cons

• 24 in width needs careful counter planning
• 800 watts is lower than several picks

The GE Profile has the shortest stated depth in this roundup at 12.88 in, making it a strong choice where front clearance is the main problem. Its 1.1 cu. ft. capacity gives you more interior room than the 0.7 and 0.9 cu. ft. compact models.

The trade-off is width. At 24 in wide, this is one of the widest choices here, so it may fit a shallow counter but still use a large section from side to side.

Its 800 watts, 10 power levels and sensor cooking cover common reheating and cooking needs. One-touch express settings and four convenience cook settings keep routine jobs simple.

The GE Profile adds Wi-Fi connectivity and works with Alexa and Google Assistant. Scan-to-Cook technology can adjust settings according to package instructions after scanning a barcode.

GE specifies 3 in of clearance on each side and above, 1 in at the rear, and an unobstructed bottom for airflow. It can also be installed underneath cabinets with an optional hanging kit sold separately, so check the installation plan before treating it as a built-in solution.

4. Sharp SMC0962KS 0.9 cu. ft. 900W Stainless: Best for simple shallow cooking

4

Sharp SMC0962KS 0.9 cu. ft. 900W Stainless: Best for simple shallow cooking

9.0/10Our score

• 13.2 in depth
• 900 watts
• 10.6 in carousel turntable
• 10 power levels
• Weight and time defrost

Sharp keeps the cabinet compact at 13.2 in deep and 10.7 in high. It offers 900 watts, 10 power levels, Auto Cook and a 10.6 in carousel turntable.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 13.2 in depth
• 900 watts
• Low 10.7 in height

Cons

• 10.6 in turntable may limit larger dishes
• Interior material is plastic

The Sharp is a good shallow microwave depth choice when you want a compact cabinet with straightforward controls. It measures 13.2 in deep, 18.6 in wide and 10.7 in high, so it also works well where vertical space is limited.

Its 900 watts match the Chefman and TOSHIBA compact model. Ten power levels and two-stage cooking give you manual control for cooking in steps, such as defrosting and then heating.

The 10.6 in carousel turntable is a useful size for many everyday dishes, but measure your largest plate before choosing it. The turntable is removable, and Auto Cook adds quick settings for popular foods.

Sharp includes weight and time defrost, a +30 seconds key and express cooking for up to 6 minutes with a single press. The white LED display and LED interior lighting make the controls and food easier to monitor.

Choose Sharp if you want a low, shallow cabinet with 900-watt output. Pick a different model if you need the largest turntable or connected controls.

5. TOSHIBA Microwave Oven: Best for compact preset cooking

5

TOSHIBA Microwave Oven: Best for compact preset cooking

8.7/10Our score

• 13.3 in depth
• 0.9 cu. ft. capacity
• 900 watts
• 6 preset menus
• Child lock and mute function

This compact TOSHIBA is 13.3 in deep and 10.7 in high, making it useful where both front clearance and vertical space matter. Six menus, one-touch start and a child lock keep daily use simple.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 13.3 in depth and 10.7 in height
• 900 watts
• Child lock and mute function

Cons

• 0.9 cu. ft. capacity
• Fewer power levels than the Chefman and Sharp

This compact TOSHIBA is a strong option for a shallow counter where both depth and height matter. It measures 13.3 in deep, 18.7 in wide and 10.7 in high, giving it a similar front-to-back profile to the Sharp.

The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity suits smaller dishes, snacks and reheating. Its 900 watts provide more output than the 700-watt models, while 11 power levels let you adjust cooking intensity for different foods.

Six preset menus include common choices such as popcorn, pizza and potato. One-touch start provides fast access to 1 to 6 minutes of full-power cooking, and defrosting can be set by weight or time.

A child lock helps limit unintended use, and the mute function suits bedrooms, offices and shared kitchens where beeps may be distracting. The 10.6 in removable glass turntable gives you a clear size check before buying.

Choose this TOSHIBA when compact dimensions and preset cooking matter more than a larger interior.

6. GE Countertop Microwave: Best for the smallest footprint

6

GE Countertop Microwave: Best for the smallest footprint

8.0/10Our score

• 12.75 in depth
• 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
• 700 watts
• One-touch controls
• Auto and manual defrost

The GE has the smallest stated depth and width in this group, at 12.75 and 17.31 in. Its 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and 700 watts suit snacks, drinks and smaller reheating jobs.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Shortest depth among the listed dimensions
• Small 17.31 in width
• One-touch controls and child lock

Cons

• Smallest capacity here
• 700 watts may take longer than 900 or 1000 watt models

The GE Countertop Microwave is the smallest footprint option in this group by the stated width and depth. It measures 17.31 in wide, 12.75 in deep and 10.19 in high, which can help on a crowded dorm, office or apartment counter.

Its 0.7 cu. ft. capacity is best for smaller plates, drinks, snacks and single portions. At 700 watts, it may need more time than the 900-watt and 1000-watt models, but the lower output can still suit basic reheating.

One-touch controls and four convenience cook settings simplify common tasks. Auto and manual defrost modes help thaw food by adjusting time and power, while the child lock adds a safety control for shared spaces.

The GE includes a roller ring and turntable. Allow 3 in of clearance on each side and above, 1 in at the rear, and an unobstructed bottom according to GE's countertop requirements.

Pick it when the counter footprint matters more than capacity. If you need a wider plate or faster cooking, move up to a 0.9 cu. ft. model.

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

7

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

7.8/10Our score

• 12.99 in depth
• 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
• 700 watts
• 10 power levels
• 6 preset options

Farberware keeps depth to 12.99 in and width to 17.3 in while adding 10 power levels and multi-stage cooking. It fits buyers who want a small cabinet without giving up manual control.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 12.99 in depth
• 10 power levels and multi-stage cooking
• Small 17.3 in width

Cons

• 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
• 700 watts

Farberware is the best shallow depth microwave here for buyers who want a compact 0.7 cu. ft. cabinet with more manual cooking control. At 12.99 in deep, 17.3 in wide and 10.14 in high, it fits the same small-counter category as the GE.

The 700-watt output suits routine reheating, drinks and small meals. Ten power levels and multi-stage cooking give you more flexibility than a basic one-touch appliance, especially when a recipe needs more than one step.

Six preset options include common foods such as popcorn, potato and pizza. Defrosting by weight or time helps with frozen items, while the LED display shows the clock, timer and cooking time.

The easy-to-clean interior and exterior help with regular upkeep. Interior lighting lets you check the food while it cooks, and the child safety lock adds a useful control for households with children.

Choose Farberware if you want the compact dimensions of a small microwave with 10 power levels. Choose the GE if the shortest depth and smallest width are more important than multi-stage cooking.

How do you measure for a shallow microwave depth?

Measure the counter from the rear wall or backsplash to the front edge, then compare that space with the microwave's stated depth. Leave room for the door to open without striking a nearby wall, cabinet or appliance.

Check width separately because a shallow cabinet can still be wide. The GE Profile is only 12.88 in deep but measures 24 in wide, while the compact GE is 17.31 in wide and 12.75 in deep.

Height also matters under cabinets. The Sharp, TOSHIBA compact model, GE Countertop Microwave and Farberware are all about 10 to 11 in high, while the taller models need more vertical room.

Do not press the back of a microwave tightly against a wall. Airflow requirements vary, so read the instructions for the exact model and follow the stated clearances.

Is a shallow microwave better for a small counter?

A shallow microwave is better when front-to-back counter space is the limiting measurement. It can leave more room in front of the appliance, but it does not automatically provide more usable counter space if the unit is very wide.

For more compact choices, compare the best small microwaves for offices if the appliance will serve a break room or shared workspace. If your main goal is reducing height rather than depth, see the best low profile countertop microwave guide.

Capacity is the main trade-off. The GE and Farberware use 0.7 cu. ft. cabinets, while the TOSHIBA 1.2 cu. ft. model gives you more room but extends farther into the counter.

What should you check besides shallow microwave depth?

Check the turntable diameter, width, height, door swing and required ventilation space. A microwave can fit the measured depth but still fail if a dinner plate cannot turn or the door cannot open fully.

Power affects cooking speed and may change how you use the appliance. The 1000-watt TOSHIBA and 900-watt models offer more output than the 700-watt GE and Farberware.

Controls also affect daily use. Sensor cooking, preset menus, one-touch start, mute functions and child locks solve different problems, so choose features that match your kitchen rather than adding them automatically.

For over-the-range appliances, the installation rules are different. Read Do Over-the-Range Microwaves Come in Different Depths? and What Is the Standard Depth of a Cabinet Above a Range? before comparing a countertop model with a range-mounted design.

How should you place and clean a shallow countertop microwave?

Place the microwave on a level, stable counter with the bottom and vents unobstructed. A shelf that bows under weight or a surface with a slope can make the door harder to close and the turntable less steady.

Keep it away from the sink or other water sources. Splashes near the vents or controls can create problems, and a nearby stove can add heat that the cabinet was not designed to handle.

Leave the model's required clearance on the sides, above and behind the cabinet. GE specifies 3 in on each side and above, 1 in at the rear, and an unobstructed bottom for its countertop models.

Measure that space before you set the unit in place. Pushing the microwave into a corner to save space can block airflow and reduce performance over time.

Let the microwave sit where you can open the door fully. Check that the door clear of a wall, cabinet edge or chair, since you will need room to load food and pull out a hot dish.

Wipe spills after the interior cools. Food left to harden can be harder to clean and may start to smell if it stays in the cavity.

Use a damp cloth for the exterior unless the instructions for your model call for a different cleaner. The Chefman exterior, for example, wipes clean with a damp towel, but other finishes may need gentler care.

Remove the turntable when it needs separate washing. Some glass turntables can go in the dishwasher, while others should be washed by hand, so follow the guidance for your exact model.

Do not operate an empty microwave. Running it without food can damage the appliance and offers no benefit for preparing a meal.

Use microwave-safe cookware and cover foods when appropriate. Covers can reduce splatter and help keep the interior cleaner, though some foods cook better when left uncovered.

Follow the cooking instructions for packaged foods, including standing time. That pause can help even out heating and make the result safer to eat.

For general microwave safety information, review the FDA's microwave oven guidance.

Final verdict on the best shallow depth microwave

The Chefman 0.9 cu. ft. model is the best shallow depth microwave for most counters because it combines a 13.27 in depth with 900 watts, 10 power levels, six presets, Eco Mode, mute and child-lock controls.

That mix suits a kitchen where you need to reheat leftovers, warm drinks and cook simple foods without giving up too much counter depth. The 900 watts give you more output than the 700-watt compact models, while the presets can make routine jobs quicker.

The muted controls and Eco Mode also help in shared spaces. You can silence beeps when others are nearby, and the display can stay off when the microwave is not in use.

Choose the GE Profile if 12.88 in is the maximum depth you can use and you have room for a 24 in wide appliance. Its 1.1 cu. ft. capacity and smart features may be worth the extra width.

Choose the compact GE for the smallest overall footprint at 17.31 in wide and 12.75 in deep. That is a better fit for a dorm, office or small apartment counter where every inch counts.

Choose the TOSHIBA 1.2 cu. ft. model when interior capacity matters more than the last few inches of counter depth. Its 12.4 in turntable and 1000 watts suit larger plates and more frequent cooking.

The Sharp and compact TOSHIBA are useful middle options at about 13.2 in deep with 900 watts. Either could suit a low counter where height is also limited, since both sit about 10.7 in high.

The Farberware offers multi-stage cooking in a shallow 12.99 in cabinet. That may appeal if you want more manual control in a small footprint, though it has 700 watts and 0.7 cu. ft. of capacity.

Measure depth, width, height and clearance together before you order. Check the turntable size against your largest plate, and confirm the door can open without hitting anything nearby.

That check matters more than choosing the shallowest number by itself. A model that fits your counter, your dishes and your daily routine will serve you better than one chosen for depth alone.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for balanced depth and controls

   Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft.

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for larger shallow-counter capacity

   TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for smart countertop control

   GE Profile Countertop Microwave 800W 1.1 Cu.

   9.3/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What is the best shallow depth microwave?

The best shallow depth microwave depends on the space behind your counter. The GE Profile reaches 12.88 in deep with 1.1 cu. ft. capacity, while the Chefman is 13.27 in deep with 900 watts and useful mute and child-lock controls.

Measure the counter and required airflow before choosing.

How shallow can a countertop microwave be?

The shallowest stated depth in this roundup is 12.75 in for the GE Countertop Microwave. The Farberware, GE Profile, Sharp, Chefman and TOSHIBA compact models range from 12.88 to 13.3 in deep.

Leave the maker's required rear and side clearance when planning placement.

Does microwave depth include the handle?

Microwave depth measurements may not show every part that extends toward you, such as a handle or door shape. Treat the cabinet dimension as a starting point, then check the exact installation dimensions before ordering.

Keep the door path clear so you can load and remove dishes safely.

How much clearance does a countertop microwave need?

Clearance depends on the model. GE specifies 3 in on each side and above, 1 in at the rear, and an unobstructed bottom for its countertop models.

Use the instructions for your exact microwave, and do not place it where the vents or bottom airflow path are blocked.