Best picks

9 Best Small 1000 Watt Microwaves (November 2026)

Updated on · By the Microwave Doctor team

The best small 1000 watt microwaves include the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven for sensor cooking, the COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven for the smallest footprint, and the Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 cu.ft.1000 Watts for stainless steel value.

On this page (4 sections)
  1. The best small 1000 watt microwave picks
  2. How to choose a compact 1000 watt microwave
  3. Countertop setup and care tips
  4. Best small 1000 watt microwave: final verdict

The best small 1000 watt microwave for most kitchens is the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven. Its 1.2 cu. ft. capacity, 1000W output, humidity sensor and 20.6 in width give useful cooking space without the footprint of a full-size family microwave.

Small means different things in different kitchens. Some counters are wide with limited depth, while others have a narrow gap between cabinets and need a shorter height.

Measure width, depth and height before you order. Also check door swing, because a model that fits the counter can be awkward if the door opens toward a wall or walkway.

The TOSHIBA pairs 1000W output with sensor cooking and 10 power levels. That mix suits frequent reheating plus lower settings for foods that need gentler heat.

If width is the main limit, the 17.3 in COMFEE' deserves a look. It gives up the 1000W target, but it fits where a 20 in cabinet cannot.

For a true 1000 watt microwave with a shallow cabinet, compare the 14.47 in deep Chefman and FRIGIDAIRE models. Depth matters when a backsplash or wall cabinet sits close behind the unit.

Capacity should shape the choice too. A 1.1 or 1.2 cu. ft. interior handles plates and containers more easily than a 0.7 or 0.9 cu. ft. cabinet.

This guide focuses on countertop models. For a broader look at compact cabinets, see our best microwave for small spaces, then measure the exact space before choosing.

Check the electrical side as well. A 1000W microwave draws more current than a lower wattage unit, so confirm the circuit and outlet suit the model you pick.

Use the feature list only after fit is settled. Presets, mute, ECO mode and child lock are useful, but they cannot fix a cabinet that is too wide, deep or tall.

Our picks at a glance

  1. 1 TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven
    Best for sensor cooking

    TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven

    9.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  2. 2 COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven
    Best for the smallest footprint

    COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven

    9.4/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  3. 3 Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 cu.ft.1000 Watts
    Best for stainless steel value

    Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 cu.ft.1000 Watts

    9.4/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  1. 4Chefman Countertop Microwave

    Chefman Countertop Microwave

    Best for quiet stainless cooking
    Check it
  2. 5Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft.Check it
  3. 6TOSHIBA Microwave Oven

    TOSHIBA Microwave Oven

    Best for lower cabinet height
    Check it
  4. 7FRIGIDAIRE EMW1132-RED 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W MicrowaveCheck it
  5. 8Smad 1000 Watt Microwave Countertop OvensCheck it
  6. 9BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven

    BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven

    Best for simple daily reheating
    Check it

The best small 1000 watt microwave picks

The TOSHIBA is the strongest overall choice, while the remaining models trade capacity, controls, depth, finish and convenience features. We compared the stated dimensions, output, capacity, presets, power levels and safety features against the needs of a compact countertop.

Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you’re shopping for. A lower score does not mean a product is poor.

It means the model gives up something important for this specific small 1000 watt microwave search.

ProductBest forCapacitySize (W x D x H)TurntableOur score
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Ovensensor cooking1.2 cu. ft.20.6 x 14.6 x 11.8 in12.4 in glass9.7
COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oventhe smallest footprint0.7 cu. ft.17.3 x 13 x 10.2 in9.4
Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 cu.ft.1000 Wattsstainless steel value1.1 cu. ft.20.2 x 16.54 x 12.03 in9.4
Chefman Countertop Microwavequiet stainless cooking1.1 cu. ft.20.1 x 14.47 x 11.99 in9.2
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft.preset variety1.1 cu. ft.20.1 x 15.1 x 12 in8.9
TOSHIBA Microwave Ovenlower cabinet height0.9 cu. ft.18.7 x 13.3 x 10.7 in10.6 in glass8.7
FRIGIDAIRE EMW1132-RED 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W Microwavea colorful kitchen1.1 cu. ft.20.08 x 14.47 x 11.99 in8.7
Smad 1000 Watt Microwave Countertop Ovensmemory cooking1.1 cu. ft.20.6 x 16.5 x 11.8 in12.3 in8.6
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Ovensimple daily reheating1.1 cu. ft.8.0
1

TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for sensor cooking

TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven, small 1000 watt microwaves
9.7/10Our score
  • 1.2 cu. ft. capacity
  • 1000W output
  • Smart humidity sensor
  • 10 power levels

The TOSHIBA combines the largest capacity here with a 1000W output, sensor cooking and 10 power levels. Its 20.6 in width still suits many apartment kitchens and office break rooms.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Smart humidity sensor
  • 1.2 cu. ft. capacity
  • ECO and mute functions

Cons

  • Wider and deeper than the smallest models
  • Uses 1600W input power

The TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven is the best all-around fit when you want useful interior room without moving to a much wider cabinet. It measures 20.6 in wide, 14.6 in deep and 11.8 in high, with a 1.2 cu. ft. capacity and a 12.4 in glass turntable.

Its 1000W output handles fast reheating and everyday cooking. The smart humidity sensor adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, which can help with sensor cooking when you want less manual timing.

The control set is also strong for a compact microwave. You get 10 power levels, 6 preset menus, defrost by weight or time, one-touch starts from 1 to 6 minutes, a clock and a kitchen timer.

The black stainless steel finish, ECO mode and mute function suit a kitchen or office where appearance and sound matter. The 1600W input power is worth checking against the circuit serving your counter.

Choose this model if you want the largest stated capacity here plus sensor cooking. It is less suitable when your shelf or counter is limited to less than 20.6 in of width.

TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave OvenCheck it on Amazon
2

COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for the smallest footprint

COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven, small 1000 watt microwaves
9.4/10Our score
  • 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
  • 17.3 in width
  • ECO mode
  • Child safety lock

The COMFEE' is the easiest fit where counter width is the main problem. Its 700W output is below the 1000W target, but its compact cabinet, mute function and one-touch controls suit small daily meals.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Smallest width and height here
  • Mute function
  • ECO mode

Cons

  • 700W output
  • Smallest capacity in the group

The COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven is the smallest model in this group by width and height. Its 17.3 x 13 x 10.2 in cabinet and 0.7 cu. ft. capacity fit dorms, offices, apartment counters and other tight spaces.

This is not a 1000 watt model. Its 700W output takes the compact footprint in exchange for lower cooking power, so expect to use the time guidance for a lower-wattage microwave when heating packaged food.

The controls are practical for simple meals. One-touch functions cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and reheating, while two defrost settings work by weight or time.

The mute function turns off beeps, and ECO mode can reduce standby power by turning off the LED display. A two-step child lock adds a useful control-panel safeguard.

Choose COMFEE' when counter space matters more than 1000W output. If you need more cooking room, compare it with a small 1200 watt microwave before deciding.

COMFEE' Countertop Microwave OvenCheck it on Amazon
3

Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 cu.ft.1000 Watts: Best for stainless steel value

Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 cu.ft.1000 Watts, small 1000 watt microwaves
9.4/10Our score
  • 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
  • 1000W output
  • 10 power levels
  • 6 preset options

Farberware gives you 1000W output, 10 power levels and a stainless steel interior in a 1.1 cu. ft. cabinet. It works well for buyers who want full cooking controls without moving to a larger microwave.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 1000W output
  • 10 power levels
  • Child safety lock

Cons

  • Deepest cabinet here
  • No sensor cooking listed

The Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 cu.ft.1000 Watts gives you the target output and a stainless steel interior in a 1.1 cu. ft. cabinet. Its 20.2 in width is compact enough for many apartment kitchens, although the 16.54 in depth needs careful counter measurement.

Ten power levels and multi-stage cooking make it more flexible than a basic express-only microwave. Six one-touch options include popcorn, potato and pizza, with defrost by weight or time for frozen food.

The LED display shows the clock, kitchen timer and remaining cook time. Express controls cover 1 through 6 minutes, and the add-30-seconds button helps when a dish needs a short extension.

Farberware also includes a child safety lock, interior light, glass turntable and user guide. The stainless steel exterior and interior make it a reasonable choice when you want a traditional metal finish.

Pick Farberware for 1000W cooking with full manual control and stainless steel inside. Its depth is the main trade-off, so measure from the front edge to the wall or backsplash.

Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 cu.ft.1000 WattsCheck it on Amazon
4

Chefman Countertop Microwave: Best for quiet stainless cooking

Chefman Countertop Microwave, small 1000 watt microwaves
9.2/10Our score
  • 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
  • 1000W output
  • Mute option
  • 10 power levels

This Chefman model keeps the 1000W target while using a relatively shallow 14.47 in depth. Its mute option, child safety lock and 3 one-touch presets fit shared kitchens.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Shallow depth
  • Mute option
  • 10 power levels

Cons

  • Only 3 one-touch presets
  • Included components list only the microwave

The Chefman Countertop Microwave is a strong fit for a shallow counter. It measures 20.1 in wide, 14.47 in deep and 11.99 in high, with 1.1 cu. ft. capacity and 1000W output.

Its 10 power levels cover gentle melting through higher-power cooking. Three one-touch presets focus on popcorn, beverages and leftovers, while the number keys allow quick time entry.

The mute option can silence the cooking beeps in an office, bedroom-adjacent kitchen or shared home. A child safety lock helps prevent accidental operation, and the glass turntable is dishwasher-safe.

This model gives up preset variety compared with the 6-menu picks. In return, its shallow depth and stainless finish make it easier to place on a standard counter.

Choose it as the best compact microwave 1000 watt option for limited front-to-back space. Confirm that the 20.1 in width and door clearance fit your layout.

Chefman Countertop MicrowaveCheck it on Amazon
5

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft.: Best for preset variety

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft., small 1000 watt microwaves
8.9/10Our score
  • 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
  • 1000W output
  • 6 cooking presets
  • Eco mode

This black Chefman adds six presets, memory function, Eco mode and a mute button to a 1.1 cu. ft. cabinet. It suits households that repeat the same foods and want quick panel access.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 6 cooking presets
  • Memory function
  • Eco mode

Cons

  • Deeper than the other Chefman
  • No glass turntable diameter stated

The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. is built for repeat cooking.

It has 1000W output, 10 power levels, 6 cooking presets and a memory function for commonly used settings.

The presets cover popcorn, pizza, beverages, vegetables, potatoes and leftovers. You can also set the cooking time with the number keys and add 30 seconds when a dish needs more heat.

Its 20.1 x 15.1 x 12 in black cabinet is compact in width but deeper than the other Chefman. The ceramic enamel interior and wipe-clean exterior are useful for routine cleanup, while the glass turntable is top-rack dishwasher safe.

Eco mode can disable the display when the microwave is not in use. The child safety lock and lock mode help prevent accidental starts, and the mute button reduces sound in shared spaces.

Pick this model if preset variety and stored settings matter more than the shallowest depth. For a white finish, compare the options in our best small white microwave guide.

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft.Check it on Amazon
6

TOSHIBA Microwave Oven: Best for lower cabinet height

TOSHIBA Microwave Oven, small 1000 watt microwaves
8.7/10Our score
  • 0.9 cu. ft. capacity
  • 900W output
  • 18.7 in width
  • 11 power levels

The smaller TOSHIBA fits tighter counters and lower shelves than the 1000W models. Its 900W output, 6 menus, 11 power levels and child lock cover everyday reheating and defrosting.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Compact 18.7 in width
  • 10.7 in height
  • 11 power levels

Cons

  • 900W output
  • 0.9 cu. ft. capacity

The TOSHIBA Microwave Oven is the better TOSHIBA choice when your cabinet height or width is tighter. It measures 18.7 in wide, 13.3 in deep and 10.7 in high, with 0.9 cu. ft. capacity and a 10.6 in glass turntable.

Its 900W output falls below the 1000W target, but the smaller body may solve a placement problem that a larger microwave cannot. The model has 11 power levels, 6 preset menus, one-touch starts from 1 to 6 minutes and defrost by weight or time.

A child lock, control-panel lock, mute function and LED lighting cover common daily needs. The black stainless steel finish also matches the larger TOSHIBA while taking up less counter space.

Choose it for a compact 1000 watt microwave alternative when fit is more important than exact output. If you often use wide plates or large containers, its 0.9 cu. ft. interior may feel limiting.

TOSHIBA Microwave OvenCheck it on Amazon
7

FRIGIDAIRE EMW1132-RED 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W Microwave: Best for a colorful kitchen

FRIGIDAIRE EMW1132-RED 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W Microwave, small 1000 watt microwaves
8.7/10Our score
  • 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
  • 1000W output
  • Red finish
  • 10 power levels

The red FRIGIDAIRE delivers the requested 1000W output in a familiar 1.1 cu. ft. size. Choose it when the finish matters as much as the compact footprint.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 1000W output
  • Red finish
  • Child safety lock

Cons

  • Fewer stated controls than some rivals
  • No mute function listed

The FRIGIDAIRE EMW1132-RED 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W Microwave combines the requested output with a red finish.

Its 20.08 x 14.47 x 11.99 in size is close to the shallow Chefman, so it can work on a counter where depth is limited.

The 1.1 cu. ft. capacity suits standard reheating and everyday meals. It should handle a dinner plate and common containers for one or two servings without the bulk of a larger cabinet.

Ten power levels give you more control than a single high-power setting. Lower power is useful for softening or warming foods that burn at the edges when heated at full power.

The electronic touchpad keeps the controls direct. There is no dial to learn, but touch controls need dry hands and a clear view of the panel to set time and power correctly.

Auto cook, defrost, power levels and reheat programs cover the main tasks. The microwave also includes a glass turntable and child lock.

The red exterior is the clear trade-off here. It adds character to a kitchen that can carry a bold color, but it will stand out more than black or stainless steel in a shared or rented space.

Choose FRIGIDAIRE when a bright red exterior helps the microwave fit your kitchen style. It has fewer stated convenience features than several models above, including no listed mute or ECO mode.

For quiet rooms, that lack of a listed mute function matters. For daily reheating on a shallow counter, the 1000W output and 1.1 cu. ft. capacity remain the main reasons to consider it.

FRIGIDAIRE EMW1132-RED 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W MicrowaveCheck it on Amazon
8

Smad 1000 Watt Microwave Countertop Ovens: Best for memory cooking

Smad 1000 Watt Microwave Countertop Ovens, small 1000 watt microwaves
8.6/10Our score
  • 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
  • 1000W output
  • Memory function
  • 10 power levels

Smad pairs 1000W output with memory cooking, multi-step cooking and a 12.3 in turntable. It suits shared kitchens where several people repeat stored settings.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Memory function
  • Multi-step cooking
  • Eco mode

Cons

  • Deep 16.5 in cabinet
  • Included components list only the turntable

The Smad 1000 Watt Microwave Countertop Ovens suit a shared kitchen where more than one person uses the same cooking patterns. Its 1.1 cu. ft. capacity, 1000W output, 10 power levels and 12.3 in turntable provide useful room for everyday meals.

The memory function stores frequently used settings, while multi-step cooking can run several programmed phases. Six preset options include foods such as popcorn, pizza and vegetables, and a +30-second button handles quick extensions.

The black cabinet measures 20.6 x 16.5 x 11.8 in. That 16.5 in depth is one of the largest here, so it needs more space from the front edge of the counter to the wall.

Eco mode turns off the display when the unit is not in use. Child and control-panel locks help reduce accidental operation, and the stainless steel exterior gives it a darker modern look.

Choose Smad for memory and multi-step cooking in a 1000W compact microwave. Skip it if your counter depth is restricted.

Smad 1000 Watt Microwave Countertop OvensCheck it on Amazon
9

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven: Best for simple daily reheating

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven, small 1000 watt microwaves
8.0/10Our score
  • 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
  • 1000W output
  • 6 one-touch presets
  • 10 power levels

BLACK+DECKER offers 1000W output, 6 presets and 10 power levels in a black 1.1 cu. ft. countertop cabinet. It is a straightforward pick for apartments, dorms and offices.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 6 one-touch presets
  • 10 power levels
  • Child safety lock

Cons

  • No mute or ECO mode listed
  • No turntable size stated

The BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven is a straightforward 1000W choice for apartments, dorms and offices. Its 1.1 cu. ft. cabinet measures 20.6 x 14.8 x 11.8 in and includes 10 power levels.

Six one-touch menus cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and dinner plates. Those presets suit repeat meals, while manual time and power settings remain available for other foods.

Express cooking provides quick starts for lunch breaks and late-night snacks. The 1000W output also helps when a dish needs reheating in a short window.

The child safety lock helps prevent accidental control-panel use. Hold the cancel button for 5 seconds to activate the lock, which is a simple step for households with young children.

The black finish is described as fingerprint-resistant, which may help the exterior stay cleaner during frequent use. Wipe it with a soft, damp cloth and avoid harsh cleaners that can dull the surface.

Its standard countertop installation makes it easy to place without a built-in cabinet conversion. Leave the vents clear and keep the door swing in mind when you choose the spot.

This model does not list a mute function, ECO mode or turntable diameter. Those omissions matter if quiet operation, display control or large round dishes are priorities.

Pick it for simple 1000W reheating with familiar presets. Office buyers can compare it with our best small microwave for office guide.

For a dorm or small apartment, the practical question is fit on the counter. Measure the width and depth first, then decide whether the preset list matches the foods you heat most often.

BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave OvenCheck it on Amazon

How to choose a compact 1000 watt microwave

The right compact microwave starts with the counter, not the feature list. Measure width, depth and height, then leave room for the door to open and for clearances in the instructions.

A microwave 20 in wide may still fail to fit if the counter is shallow. Depth matters especially on Farberware and Smad, which extend farther front to back than the shallow Chefman and FRIGIDAIRE.

Capacity tells you about usable interior room more than outside width alone. A 1.1 or 1.2 cu. ft. model suits larger plates, while a 0.7 cu. ft. model is easier to place in a narrow dorm or office corner.

Turntable diameter is another useful check. The TOSHIBA 1.2 cu. ft. model has a 12.4 in turntable, Smad has 12.3 in, and the smaller TOSHIBA has 10.6 in.

A larger turntable helps round dishes rotate without catching the wall. Compare its size with the plates and bowls you use every day.

Power levels matter for daily cooking. Ten or eleven levels let you melt, defrost, reheat gently or cook at full power, while one setting forces every task to use the same heat.

Presets help when meals repeat. Popcorn, pizza, potato, beverage and reheat buttons save time, but manual settings suit leftovers and packaged foods with different portions.

Sensor cooking can reduce guesswork for some foods. A humidity sensor adjusts time and power for supported items, while other foods still need portion, container and standing time checks.

Defrost options also deserve a close look. By weight suits packaged items with a listed weight, while by time gives more control when weight is unclear.

Mute, ECO mode and display controls matter in shared spaces. Beeps on every press can be a problem in an office, dorm or open-plan home.

Child lock and panel lock are worth checking in family kitchens. They reduce accidental starts, but they do not replace supervision around hot food.

Electrical demand should not be overlooked. A 1000W model draws more input power than a 700W or 900W unit, so check the outlet and circuit first.

Cleaning ease varies by interior finish. Stainless steel and ceramic enamel wipe clean, with results depending on prompt wiping and the cleaner allowed by the instructions.

The best fit clears three checks. It must fit the space, match your cooking habits and keep controls simple for everyone who uses it.

Is a small 1000 watt microwave worth choosing?

A small 1000 watt microwave is worth choosing when you want faster cooking than a 700W compact unit while keeping the cabinet near 20 in wide. It is a good middle ground for apartments, offices and kitchens with limited counter space.

The actual result still depends on food quantity and moisture. Use lower power for gentle heating, stir or rotate food when appropriate, and allow standing time for heat to spread through the food.

COMFEE' is the exception in this roundup because its 700W output is paired with the smallest footprint. The 900W TOSHIBA also saves space, but it does not provide the full 1000W target.

Which controls matter in a compact microwave?

Preset menus are useful when you often heat the same foods. The 6-menu models cover more common foods than the Chefman with 3 presets, while manual power levels are better when you want to control how gently food heats.

A mute function matters in quiet rooms. TOSHIBA, COMFEE', both Chefman models and Smad list mute or sound controls, while the FRIGIDAIRE and BLACK+DECKER models do not list that feature.

Memory cooking helps when several users repeat the same settings. The TOSHIBA 1.2 cu. ft., Farberware, Chefman 1.1 cu. ft. and Smad provide useful stored or programmable options.

Countertop setup and care tips

Place the microwave on a stable, level countertop with open space for its door and controls. Do not block the vents, and check the instructions for clearance before pushing it against a wall or cabinet side.

Leave room in front for safe handling of hot dishes. Placement too close to a sink, stove or walkway makes removing a hot container harder.

Use microwave-safe cookware and avoid metal unless instructions specifically allow it. Glass and ceramic made for microwave use are safer, while damaged or unknown containers should use another method.

Cover foods that may splatter, but leave a vent path so steam does not build up. A loose cover or paper towel reduces mess while letting steam escape.

Stir or rotate food when the type calls for it. That helps reduce cold spots in dense leftovers, sauces and frozen items that thaw unevenly.

Allow standing time when the package or recipe calls for it. Heat spreads during that pause, improving texture and reducing a hot outside with a cold center.

Wipe spills after the microwave cools. Prompt wiping with a damp cloth eases later cleaning and helps prevent odor from baked-on food.

Clean a removable glass turntable as directed. The Chefman 1.1 cu. ft. turntable is described as top-rack dishwasher safe, so let it cool and check it sits correctly on the roller ring.

Keep the control panel dry and do not pull the door by force. Moisture can cause missed presses, and force can damage the latch or seal over time.

A child lock helps in a family kitchen, but it does not replace supervision. Teach children to wait for an adult to remove heated dishes.

For stainless finishes, wipe with the grain using a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive pads unless the manual allows them, since scratches wear the finish faster.

Check the door seal and interior light from time to time. A clean seal helps the door close evenly, and a working light makes watching food easier.

For stainless finishes, compare details with our guide to the best small microwave stainless steel models. For over-the-range use, see What Is a Compact Over-the-Range Microwave? because countertop models cannot be treated as built-in venting units.

In an office or dorm, agree on basic care rules. Wiping spills, covering splattering foods and avoiding metal keeps a shared unit working well for everyone.

Best small 1000 watt microwave: final verdict

Choose the TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven if you want the best balance of capacity, 1000W output, sensor cooking and compact countertop dimensions.

Its 1.2 cu. ft. interior and 12.4 in turntable give you more room than the smaller cabinets here. The humidity sensor, 10 power levels, ECO mode and mute function also cover a wide range of daily tasks.

Choose Chefman if a shallow cabinet or quiet operation matters more. The 14.47 in deep Chefman model is easier to place on a limited counter, while the other Chefman adds six presets and memory function.

Choose Farberware for stainless steel with 10 power levels. Its 1.1 cu. ft. cabinet and multi-stage cooking suit buyers who prefer manual control, though the deeper cabinet needs careful measuring.

Pick BLACK+DECKER or FRIGIDAIRE for simple 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W cooking.

BLACK+DECKER emphasizes familiar presets, while FRIGIDAIRE adds a bright red finish for kitchens that can carry more color.

Choose the smaller TOSHIBA or COMFEE' when the available space matters more than reaching the full 1000 watt target. The smaller TOSHIBA keeps 900W output in a shorter cabinet, and COMFEE' offers the smallest width and height at 700W.

Measure width, depth, height and door swing before you decide. The best compact microwave is the one that fits the counter, matches your usual foods and stays easy to clean and control every day.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

  1. 1 TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven
    Best for sensor cooking

    TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven

    9.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  2. 2 COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven
    Best for the smallest footprint

    COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven

    9.4/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  3. 3 Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 cu.ft.1000 Watts
    Best for stainless steel value

    Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 cu.ft.1000 Watts

    9.4/10 our score

    See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What is the best small 1000 watt microwave?

The TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven is the best small 1000 watt microwave for most kitchens because it combines 1.2 cu. ft. capacity, 1000W output, a 12.4 in turntable and smart humidity-sensor cooking. Choose Chefman or BLACK+DECKER if you prefer a 1.1 cu. ft. cabinet.

How small can a 1000 watt microwave be?

A small 1000 watt microwave in this group is about 20 in wide, 14 to 16.5 in deep and 12 in high. The BLACK+DECKER, Chefman and FRIGIDAIRE models are close to those dimensions.

Measure the counter, side clearance and door swing before ordering.

Is 1000 watts enough for a small microwave?

Yes, 1000 watts is enough for fast reheating, cooking and defrosting in a compact countertop microwave. Use lower power for foods that need gentler heating, and follow the food package instructions because cooking time also depends on portion size and starting temperature.

What is the difference between a compact and small microwave?

Compact and small usually describe the cabinet footprint rather than one fixed capacity. A 0.7 cu. ft. model saves the most counter space, while a 1.1 or 1.2 cu. ft. model gives you more room for plates and larger containers.