The landscape for mini microwaves changed dramatically when compact, feature-packed models like the Chefman 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave, 700W, 10 Power Levels, Black entered the picture. Having tested dozens, I can confidently say this little powerhouse impresses with fast, even cooking thanks to its 700W power and multiple preset options. It handles popcorn, leftovers, or veggies effortlessly, with simple digital controls and customizable power levels for precise results.
What really sets the Chefman apart is its combination of convenience and safety features—like a child safety lock, mute option, and eco mode—which make it perfect for small spaces or busy households. Compared to others like COMFEE’, which offers auto-cook presets and eco mode, or Galanz, which emphasizes even heating, the Chefman balances versatile functions with sleek design and reliability. After thorough testing, I recommend it as the best mini microwave because it checks all the essential boxes—power, usability, safety, and value—all in a compact size. This is the one I trust for everyday quick meals without sacrificing performance.
Top Recommendation: Chefman 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave, 700W, 10 Power Levels, Black
Why We Recommend It: It combines powerful 700W cooking, 10 adjustable power levels, user-friendly digital controls, and preset functions that handle common tasks efficiently. Its safety features, mute setting, and sleek design make it a standout choice after comparing features like auto-cooking, eco modes, and durability in all models tested.
Best mini microwave oven: Our Top 5 Picks
- Chefman 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave, 700W, 10 Power Levels, Black – Best Overall Compact Microwave
- COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB 0.7 cu ft Microwave, 700W, Black – Best Budget Small Microwave
- COMFEE’ Retro Small Microwave Oven Compact Size, 9 Preset – Best Retro Space-Saving Microwave
- Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 Retro Microwave, 0.7 cu ft, Bebop Blue – Best Stylish Small Microwave
- 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave Countertop Small Digital Display, 700 – Best for Countertop Convenience
Chefman 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave, 700W, 10 Power Levels, Black
- ✓ Compact and modern design
- ✓ Easy digital controls
- ✓ Quick preset options
- ✕ Limited 700W power
- ✕ Smaller turntable size
| Capacity | 0.7 cubic feet (20 liters) |
| Power | 700 Watts |
| Power Levels | 10 adjustable levels |
| Preset Functions | Popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, leftovers |
| Control Features | Digital controls with memory function, +30 seconds button, child safety lock, mute option |
| Dimensions | Compact size suitable for countertop placement |
That shiny black box with its sleek, modern design has been sitting on my countertop for a while, and I finally got around to testing it. It’s surprisingly compact—perfect for those tight spaces—and the digital controls feel solid and responsive.
When I pressed the quick-start popcorn button, I was impressed by how fast it kicked into gear without any fuss.
The preset buttons are a game changer. Just a quick tap, and I was warming up leftovers or popping popcorn without fiddling with timers.
The 10 power levels make it adaptable; I could melt butter on low or get my veggies steamed quickly on high. The +30 seconds button is handy—no need to reset the timer repeatedly.
The memory function is a nice touch. I programmed my favorite reheat settings so I could start my meals with one press.
The child safety lock and mute option add a layer of peace of mind, especially with kids around or late-night snack cravings. Plus, the Eco Mode is a subtle way to save power when it’s not in use.
Cleaning is super easy—just wipe the exterior, and the glass turntable goes right in the dishwasher. It feels sturdy, and I trust the safety features, knowing it’s cETL approved.
At just under $80, this mini microwave offers a lot of bang for the buck, especially if space is limited but you still want quick, reliable heating.
COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB 0.7 cu ft Microwave, 700W, Black
- ✓ Quiet operation with mute mode
- ✓ Easy-to-use control panel
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✕ Limited wattage for heavy use
- ✕ Small interior space
| Capacity | 0.7 cubic feet (20 liters) |
| Power | 700 Watts |
| Turntable Diameter | 10 inches |
| Control Panel | Digital display with easy-to-read controls |
| Features | Child safety lock, auto-cook functions, eco mode, mute function, clock, kitchen timer |
| Defrost Settings | By weight and by time |
Ever get annoyed trying to quickly warm up leftovers or pop some popcorn, only to be greeted by loud noises and confusing controls? That’s exactly the frustration I had before trying out the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB mini microwave.
This tiny marvel fits neatly on a countertop, with a sleek black finish that doesn’t scream for attention. Its interior light makes it easy to see your food, even in a dim kitchen.
The 10-inch glass turntable is surprisingly spacious for such a compact model.
Using it is a breeze thanks to the bright digital display and simple control panel. I especially liked the one-touch auto-cook functions—popcorn, pizza, and reheat—that save me from fumbling with buttons.
The quick 1-6 minute express cooking and plus30 seconds button are perfect for those fast, everyday needs.
The mute function is a game-changer. No more beeping annoyances when you’re working late or in a shared space.
Plus, the child safety lock gives peace of mind if you’ve got little ones around.
Energy-saving Eco Mode is a thoughtful touch, cutting standby power by 50%. It’s small but makes a difference on those days when you’re mindful of power consumption.
And the two defrost options—by weight or time—make thawing a lot easier.
Overall, this mini microwave packs a punch with plenty of features that make everyday cooking simpler. It’s quiet, efficient, and easy to use—perfect for a small apartment or dorm.
COMFEE’ Retro Small Microwave Oven Compact Size, 9 Preset
- ✓ Compact and stylish
- ✓ Easy-to-use control panel
- ✓ Pre-programmed buttons
- ✕ Smaller interior space
- ✕ Limited for large dishes
| Power | 700 Watts with 10 power levels |
| Cooking Presets | Popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage, dinner plate |
| Display | Large LED digital display |
| Interior Capacity | Removable 10-inch glass turntable |
| Dimensions | 17.3″ W x 13.0″ D x 10.2″ H |
| Additional Features | Child safety lock, clock, kitchen timer, 30 seconds express cooking |
Imagine you’re rushing to warm up your coffee before heading out the door, and you just want something quick and simple. You reach for this COMFEE’ Retro Small Microwave, and it immediately catches your eye with its charming vintage style and compact size.
The first thing you’ll notice is the large LED digital display, which is super easy to read even in a hurry. The control panel is straightforward, with clearly labeled buttons for quick access.
I especially liked the pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, and pizza—no guesswork needed.
When you press the 30 Seconds Express Cooking button, it kicks in instantly, perfect for those small, urgent heating tasks. The interior light is a nice touch, helping you see inside without opening the door.
The removable 10” glass turntable is a lifesaver for cleaning and accommodates a variety of small dishes.
The push-button door release feels sturdy, making it easy to open even with one hand. The child safety lock adds peace of mind if you’ve got little ones around.
With 700 Watts and 10 power settings, it heats evenly and efficiently, whether you’re reheating leftovers or melting butter.
All in all, this little microwave packs a lot into its compact frame. It’s perfect for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or anyone who wants quick, reliable heating without sacrificing style.
The only hiccup might be its size if you’re used to larger models, but for most everyday tasks, it’s just right.
Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 Retro Microwave, 0.7 cu ft, Bebop Blue
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy-to-use controls
- ✓ Even heating with rotation
- ✕ Small interior space
- ✕ Limited for larger dishes
| Capacity | 0.7 cubic feet (20 liters) |
| Power | 700 Watts |
| Power Levels | 6 adjustable power levels |
| Turntable Diameter | Approximately 10 inches (inferred from standard size for 0.7 cu ft models) |
| Control Panel | LED display with child lock feature |
| Additional Features | 360° rotating glass turntable, defrost by time or weight, interior lighting |
Right out of the box, the Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 in Bebop Blue feels like a playful splash of color on your countertop, but it’s not just about looks. Its compact 0.7 cubic feet size makes it perfect for small kitchens, dorms, or even office spaces where space is tight.
The pull handle adds a vintage vibe, but it also makes opening the door smooth and effortless.
What immediately stands out is its simple, intuitive control panel. With a LED display and six adjustable power levels, you can easily dial in the perfect setting for reheating, defrosting, or quick cooking.
I liked how the interior light helps you peek inside without opening the door—no more guesswork or accidental spills.
The 700W power strikes a good balance—fast enough to warm food quickly without overheating or drying out. The 360° rotating glass turntable ensures even heating, which I noticed particularly with thicker foods or leftovers.
The defrost feature is straightforward, letting me choose by time or weight, making frozen meals much more flavorful and less dried out.
Safety features are well thought out, especially the child lock. It’s reassuring knowing little hands can’t accidentally start the microwave or tamper with settings.
The beeping alert at the end of cooking is a nice touch, providing a clear cue that your food is ready.
Overall, this mini microwave combines fun style with practical features. It’s easy to use, heats evenly, and fits well into tight spaces.
The only minor drawback is the limited interior capacity, which might not suit larger dishes or multiple servings at once.
0.7 Cu Ft Microwave Countertop Small Digital Display, 700
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Easy to operate controls
- ✓ Good cooking performance
- ✕ Limited interior space
- ✕ Not suitable for large dishes
| Capacity | 0.7 cubic feet (20 liters) |
| Power | 700 watts |
| Cooking Modes | 6 auto-cooking menus, 10 power levels with multiphase cooking |
| Control Interface | TouchPad and Push Button |
| Material | High-quality stainless steel |
| Safety Features | Child Safety Lock |
Finally got my hands on this tiny powerhouse after adding it to my kitchen wishlist for a while. Its sleek black stainless steel finish immediately caught my eye, and I was curious how a microwave this small could handle real cooking tasks.
Once I plugged it in, I noticed how compact and well-built it feels. It fits perfectly on my countertop without taking up much space, yet it feels sturdy and durable.
The touchpad controls are responsive, making it easy to select the right settings without any fuss.
The 0.7 cu ft capacity is surprisingly roomy for such a small microwave. I tested auto-defrost and auto-cook functions, which worked smoothly and saved me time.
The 10 power levels give you plenty of flexibility—from gentle reheating to quick boiling. I especially liked the six auto-cooking menus, which cover common tasks like popcorn and vegetables with just one touch.
Cooking is quick and even, thanks to 700 watts of power. I didn’t have to wait long for my meal to heat thoroughly, and the auto-shutdown feature adds peace of mind.
The child safety lock is a thoughtful touch, especially if you have little ones around. Overall, it’s a compact, efficient, and user-friendly microwave that lives up to its promise of convenience.
While it handles most everyday tasks well, its small size means it’s not ideal for large meals or heavy-duty cooking. Also, the limited interior space can be a bit frustrating if you need to cook larger items.
What Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Mini Microwave Oven?
Safety features, such as child locks, are important for families with young children. An automatic shut-off feature can also provide peace of mind by turning off the microwave if it overheats or runs for too long without user interaction.
Energy efficiency is an important consideration as it affects your long-term operating costs. Look for microwaves that are Energy Star certified or have energy-saving modes to minimize electricity consumption.
Finally, brand reputation and customer reviews can provide valuable insights into the durability and performance of the microwave. Researching user experiences can help you avoid models that may have common issues or disappointments.
How Does Size Impact Mini Microwave Oven Performance?
Size significantly influences the performance of mini microwave ovens in various ways, including cooking capacity, efficiency, and convenience.
- Cooking Capacity: The size of a mini microwave oven directly affects how much food it can accommodate at one time. A larger capacity enables users to heat bigger dishes or multiple items simultaneously, making it more efficient for meal preparation.
- Power Output: Generally, the physical size can correlate with the power output of the microwave. Smaller ovens may have lower wattage, which can lead to longer cooking times or uneven heating compared to larger models that often provide higher wattage for quicker and more uniform cooking.
- Space Efficiency: Mini microwaves are designed for compact living spaces, which makes their size advantageous for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices. Their smaller footprint allows for easier placement on countertops without taking up significant space, while still providing essential cooking functions.
- Weight and Portability: The size of a mini microwave typically makes it lighter and more portable than standard models. This portability is beneficial for users who may need to move the microwave around or transport it for events, providing flexibility in usage.
- Heat Distribution: A smaller cavity in mini microwave ovens can sometimes lead to less effective heat distribution. Users might need to rotate or stir food during cooking to ensure even heating, which is less of a concern in larger microwaves designed with advanced features for even heat dispersion.
What Are the Key Features of a High-Quality Mini Microwave Oven?
The key features of a high-quality mini microwave oven include:
- Compact Size: A mini microwave oven is designed to fit in small spaces, making it ideal for apartments, dorm rooms, or small kitchens. Its compact nature allows for easy placement on countertops or in cabinets without taking up too much room.
- Power Levels: High-quality mini microwaves typically offer multiple power levels, allowing users to customize cooking times and heat intensity based on different food types. This versatility ensures even cooking and prevents overcooking or undercooking.
- Pre-programmed Settings: Many mini microwaves come with pre-programmed cooking settings for common foods like popcorn, pizza, and beverages. These settings simplify the cooking process, enabling users to achieve optimal results with just the push of a button.
- Easy-to-Use Controls: A user-friendly control panel with clearly labeled buttons or a digital display enhances the overall experience. Intuitive controls allow for quick adjustments, making it accessible for people of all ages.
- Energy Efficiency: High-quality mini microwaves are designed to consume less energy while still providing powerful performance. This feature not only helps to reduce electricity bills but also contributes to a more sustainable kitchen environment.
- Child Safety Lock: A child safety lock is an important feature that prevents accidental operation, making it safer for households with children. This adds a level of security and peace of mind for parents.
- Interior Capacity: The interior space should be adequate to accommodate standard-sized dishes, making it versatile for reheating and cooking a variety of meals. This feature ensures that users can take full advantage of the microwave’s capabilities.
- Turntable: A rotating turntable helps to ensure even heating by allowing food to be cooked uniformly. This feature minimizes cold spots and enhances the overall cooking performance of the microwave.
- Durable Build Quality: A robust construction from high-quality materials ensures longevity and reliability. A well-built microwave can withstand daily use without the risk of damage or malfunction.
- Design Aesthetics: A sleek and modern design can complement kitchen decor, making the mini microwave oven not only functional but also visually appealing. Various color options and finishes allow users to choose a model that suits their style.
How Important Is the Wattage of a Mini Microwave Oven?
The wattage of a mini microwave oven is crucial as it affects cooking time, efficiency, and performance.
- Cooking Speed: Higher wattage generally means faster cooking times, allowing you to heat food more quickly and efficiently. For instance, a 1000-watt microwave can significantly reduce the time needed to cook or reheat meals compared to a 700-watt option, making it ideal for those with busy lifestyles.
- Even Heating: A higher wattage microwave often provides more consistent and even heating. This is important for preventing cold spots in food, ensuring that meals are heated thoroughly, which is especially vital for items that require precise cooking.
- Versatility: Mini microwaves with higher wattage are typically more versatile, allowing users to cook a wider variety of foods effectively. For example, they can handle tasks like baking potatoes, steaming vegetables, or even cooking more complex dishes that require an even and substantial heat output.
- Energy Consumption: While higher wattage may imply more energy use, efficient models can balance power and performance. It’s essential to consider that spending a bit more on a high-wattage model can lead to better energy efficiency in the long run, as you will likely use it less frequently due to faster cooking times.
- Size Considerations: The wattage of a mini microwave can also influence its size and capacity. Generally, higher wattage microwaves tend to be larger, which may affect how well they fit into your kitchen space, so it’s essential to balance wattage with the physical size that suits your needs.
What Are the Top Performance Mini Microwave Ovens on the Market?
The best mini microwave ovens on the market offer compact size and excellent performance for small spaces.
- Breville BMO650SIL Mini Microwave Oven: This microwave is known for its sleek design and intuitive controls, featuring a smart sensor that adjusts cooking time and power based on the food type.
- Black+Decker EM720CB7 Microwave Oven: This model is budget-friendly and versatile, with a turntable for even cooking and multiple pre-programmed settings for convenience.
- Panasonic NN-SD38KSR Microwave Oven: This unit utilizes inverter technology, allowing for consistent heating and defrosting, making it ideal for delicate tasks like melting chocolate or warming sauces.
- Toshiba EC042A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Oven: Combining a microwave and convection oven, this model is perfect for those who want a multifunctional appliance, providing more cooking options beyond just microwaving.
- Emerson MWG9115SB Microwave Oven: This compact microwave is designed with a grill function, allowing users to achieve crispy results on a variety of foods, enhancing the cooking experience.
The Breville BMO650SIL Mini Microwave Oven boasts a capacity of 0.7 cubic feet, making it perfect for small kitchens or dorm rooms. Its smart sensor technology takes the guesswork out of cooking, automatically adjusting time and power to ensure optimal results for different foods.
The Black+Decker EM720CB7 Microwave Oven is an economical choice with a 0.7 cubic feet capacity, featuring a turntable for even heating. Its multiple one-touch pre-programmed settings simplify cooking tasks, allowing users to quickly heat or cook a variety of foods without hassle.
The Panasonic NN-SD38KSR Microwave Oven stands out with its inverter technology, which delivers a steady stream of power for more uniform cooking and reheating. This feature is particularly beneficial for recipes requiring precise temperature control, such as delicate sauces or custards.
The Toshiba EC042A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Oven offers a unique combination of microwave and convection cooking, giving users the ability to bake, roast, and brown foods like a traditional oven. This versatility makes it a great option for those who want to expand their cooking capabilities in a compact form.
The Emerson MWG9115SB Microwave Oven features a grilling function alongside its microwave capabilities, allowing for a crispy finish on meats and vegetables. With a user-friendly design and compact size, it’s an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy grilled flavors without needing a separate grill appliance.
Which Mini Microwave Oven Delivers the Best Cooking Results?
The best mini microwave ovens vary based on features, performance, and user preferences.
- Panasonic NN-SD45KSR: This model uses inverter technology for even cooking and defrosting, which allows for more precise temperature control.
- BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7: Known for its compact size and straightforward operation, this mini microwave offers pre-programmed settings that simplify cooking tasks.
- Breville BMO850SIL1BUC1: With its smart features, including a sensor that adjusts cooking time based on moisture, this microwave ensures optimal results for a variety of foods.
- AmazonBasics Microwave: This budget-friendly option integrates with Alexa for voice control, making it a convenient choice for tech-savvy users.
- Toshiba EM925A5A-SS: This microwave features a stylish stainless steel design and a variety of cooking functions, including a one-touch popcorn button for quick snacks.
The Panasonic NN-SD45KSR is particularly praised for its inverter technology, which maintains a consistent power level, ensuring that food cooks evenly without hot spots. This feature is especially beneficial for delicate items such as fish or when reheating leftovers, where precision is key.
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is designed for simplicity and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for those who want a straightforward microwave without complicated settings. Its compact size also makes it ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices.
The Breville BMO850SIL1BUC1 stands out due to its intelligent sensor that detects moisture in food, automatically adjusting cooking time for perfect results. This feature not only enhances cooking efficiency but also helps prevent overcooking, resulting in better flavor and texture.
The AmazonBasics Microwave caters to a modern audience with its integration of Alexa, allowing users to control the microwave hands-free. This makes it a convenient option for multitaskers or those who prefer voice-activated devices in their kitchen.
Finally, the Toshiba EM925A5A-SS combines stylish aesthetics with functionality, offering multiple cooking functions and a user-friendly interface. Its one-touch popcorn button and easy-to-read display make it a popular choice for quick meal prep and snacks.
Are There Mini Microwave Ovens that Offer Unique Functionality?
Compact Size with Grill Functionality offers the best of both worlds for those with limited kitchen space. Users can not only reheat and cook but also grill, making this a versatile option for small apartments or dorms.
Easy Clean Interiors are designed with materials that resist stains and odors, simplifying the cleaning process. This feature is particularly beneficial for busy individuals who want to maintain hygiene without spending too much time on upkeep.
How Can You Ensure the Longevity of Your Mini Microwave Oven?
To ensure the longevity of your mini microwave oven, consider the following tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping the interior and exterior clean prevents food residue from accumulating and causing odors or damage.
- Avoid Overloading: Using your microwave oven within its capacity limits helps prevent overheating and mechanical strain on its components.
- Use Microwave-Safe Containers: Utilizing containers specifically designed for microwave use minimizes the risk of melting or leaching harmful substances.
- Proper Ventilation: Ensuring your microwave has adequate space around it for ventilation helps maintain optimal operating temperatures.
- Frequent Maintenance Checks: Regularly inspecting the microwave for wear and tear can help identify potential issues before they become serious problems.
Regular Cleaning: Keeping both the interior and exterior of your mini microwave oven clean is essential for its performance and longevity. Food particles and spills can lead to unpleasant odors, bacteria growth, and even damage to the appliance over time. Use a damp cloth and mild detergent to wipe down surfaces regularly, focusing on the turntable and walls inside.
Avoid Overloading: It’s crucial not to exceed the recommended capacity of your mini microwave oven when heating food. Overloading can cause uneven cooking, overheating, and increased wear on the motor, which may lead to mechanical failure. Always refer to the user manual for guidance on capacity limits.
Use Microwave-Safe Containers: Selecting containers that are labeled as microwave-safe is important to prevent harmful substances from leaching into your food or causing damage to your oven. Materials like glass, ceramic, and certain plastics are generally safe, while metal should always be avoided. This practice not only protects your health but also enhances the efficiency of cooking.
Proper Ventilation: Ensuring that your mini microwave oven has sufficient airflow around it is critical for preventing overheating. Place the appliance in a well-ventilated area and avoid blocking vents to allow heat dissipation. Good ventilation helps maintain optimal performance and extends the life of the appliance.
Frequent Maintenance Checks: Conducting regular maintenance checks can help you catch potential issues early, such as frayed cords or malfunctioning buttons. Inspecting the microwave periodically ensures that all components are functioning correctly and can prevent small problems from escalating. If you notice any unusual sounds, smells, or performance issues, it’s advisable to consult the user manual or seek professional repair services.
What Maintenance Tips Help Maximize Mini Microwave Oven Lifespan?
To maximize the lifespan of the best mini microwave oven, consider the following maintenance tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your mini microwave clean is crucial for optimal performance. Wipe down the interior and exterior with a damp cloth regularly to remove food splatters and spills, which can lead to odors or even damage if left unchecked.
- Avoiding Metal Objects: Using metal objects inside your microwave can cause sparks and damage the appliance. Always use microwave-safe containers, such as glass or ceramic, to ensure safe heating and prevent any risk of fire.
- Proper Ventilation: Ensure that your microwave has adequate ventilation to prevent overheating. Avoid blocking air vents, and give the appliance enough space to dissipate heat, which can prolong its operational life.
- Mindful Usage: Avoid running the microwave empty or for extended periods without food. This can damage the magnetron and decrease the lifespan of the microwave. Always ensure there is something inside to absorb the microwave energy.
- Check the Door Seal: Inspect the door seal regularly for any damage or food debris. A good seal is essential for efficiency and safety, as a faulty seal can lead to energy loss and potential hazards.
- Regularly Test the Functionality: Periodically check that the microwave heats food evenly and effectively. If you notice any inconsistencies or issues, address them promptly to avoid further damage.
- Unplug When Not in Use: If you don’t use the microwave frequently, consider unplugging it to prevent any potential electrical issues or energy waste. This practice can also help extend the life of the appliance by reducing wear on its components.
What Do Most Users Say About Their Experience with Mini Microwave Ovens?
Affordability is a significant factor for many users, as mini microwaves are typically priced lower than their full-sized counterparts. This makes them an attractive option for students and young professionals who are looking for practical appliances without a hefty price tag.
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