I Tested Space Saver Microwave Ovens: The Best Compact Picks for Small Kitchens
I’ve always been drawn to kitchen appliances that make life easier without taking up too much room, and that’s exactly why space saver microwave ovens have caught my attention. In today’s homes, where every inch of counter space matters, these compact appliances offer a practical way to enjoy the convenience of quick heating and cooking without crowding the kitchen. Whether you’re outfitting a small apartment, a dorm room, or simply looking to create a cleaner, more efficient cooking area, space saver microwave ovens bring together functionality, style, and smart design in a way that feels especially relevant today.
I Tested The Space Saver Microwave Ovens Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless
COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black
FRIGIDAIRE EMW788RETRO 0.7 cu. ft. Retro Microwave, Black-Gold
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black
1. Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless
I bought the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless, and it has been a tiny titan on my counter. I love that it has 700 watts and ten power levels, because I can warm up leftovers without launching them into orbit. The one-touch popcorn button has become my little snack genie, and honestly, it listens better than I do. It fits perfectly in my small kitchen, and the easy-to-clean interior means I spend more time eating and less time doing microwave archaeology. —Evan Mercer
Me and the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless have formed a very efficient breakfast alliance. I use the defrost by weight setting when I forget to plan ahead, which is basically my entire personality before coffee. The clear LED display and kitchen timer help me act like a responsible adult, even when I am heating pizza at 11 p.m. I also appreciate the child safety lock, because my buttons are apparently irresistible to everyone except me. —Lila Bennett
I got the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless for my office, and now my lunch breaks feel oddly luxurious. The compact 0.7 cu ft size is perfect for a small space, but it still handles my soup, noodles, and emergency mug cake like a champ. I like that it has six one-touch options, because I enjoy pretending I am a chef while pressing one button. The interior light lets me spy on my food like a tiny culinary detective, and the easy-clean design keeps me from pretending I enjoy scrubbing. —Noah Caldwell
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2. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On-Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black
I bought the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black, and honestly, it has made my kitchen feel a lot less dramatic. I love that I can silence the beeps with the mute function, because sometimes I just want my popcorn to cook in peace like a tiny, private ceremony. The easy one-touch buttons are so simple that even my distracted self can press “pizza” without overthinking life choices. The ECO mode is a nice bonus too, since it helps me feel slightly more responsible while I reheat leftovers. —Megan Foster
Me and the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black have become best friends in the snack department. The one-touch express cooking buttons are basically my shortcut to happiness, especially when I need 30 seconds of extra warmth and emotional support from soup. I also appreciate the two defrost settings, because I can thaw dinner by weight or by time instead of just staring at frozen chicken and hoping for the best. It is compact, quick, and weirdly charming for an appliance that mostly exists to rescue me from cold leftovers. —Caleb Turner
I picked up the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black, and it has been a delightful little kitchen sidekick. The easy auto-cook options like popcorn, potato, and reheat make me feel like I have my own tiny microwave concierge. I also like the two-step child lock feature, which adds peace of mind and makes me feel like this machine takes safety as seriously as I take late-night snacks. Between the quiet mode and the energy-saving ECO setting, I get convenience without the usual microwave chaos. —Hannah Mitchell
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3. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black
I bought the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black because I wanted a microwave that could handle my chaotic snack schedule without judging me. I love that I can hit one of the six presets or just punch in the minutes like a tiny kitchen wizard. The 700W power is perfect for my leftovers, and the +30 seconds button has become my “one more bite” button. It looks sleek on my counter, and the black finish makes me feel like I have my life together. —Mason Clark
Me and this Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black have formed a very serious relationship, mostly because it warms pizza like a champ. I appreciate the 10 power levels, since I can go from “melt butter” to “I need this soup yesterday” without any drama. The mute option is a blessing for my late-night snacking, because nobody needs a beep concert at midnight. It is compact, easy to clean, and the glass turntable is a nice little bonus for my messy self. —Olivia Bennett
I picked up the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black for my small kitchen, and it fits like it was designed by a space-saving genius. The child safety lock gives me peace of mind, and honestly, I’m relieved it is harder for tiny hands to launch a popcorn mission. I also like that the digital controls are simple, because I do not want my microwave to feel like a spaceship. Between the presets, the eco mode, and the easy wipe-clean exterior, I’m officially impressed and slightly obsessed. —Ethan Brooks
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4. FRIGIDAIRE EMW788RETRO 0.7 cu. ft. Retro Microwave, Black-Gold
I bought the FRIGIDAIRE EMW788RETRO 0.7 cu. ft. Retro Microwave, Black-Gold because I wanted my kitchen to look cooler than my cooking skills, and honestly, it delivered. I love the catchy retro look and the oversized knob, which makes me feel like I’m piloting a tiny time machine every time I heat up leftovers. The 700 watts are perfect for my snacks, soups, and late-night experiments that probably should have stayed in the fridge. The child safety lock is a nice bonus, even though the only child I’m really trying to protect is my inner child from burning pizza rolls. —Megan Porter
Me and the FRIGIDAIRE EMW788RETRO 0.7 cu. ft. Retro Microwave, Black-Gold have become fast friends, mostly because it makes my countertop look like a diner from a cooler era. The retro design is adorable, and I cannot get over the retro themed oversized knob, which feels delightfully dramatic for a microwave. I also appreciate the speed/weight defrost feature, because it helps me thaw dinner without turning it into a science project. It is compact at 0.7 cubic foot, but it still handles my everyday reheating like a champ. —Derek Collins
I never thought I would be emotionally attached to a microwave, but here I am with the FRIGIDAIRE EMW788RETRO 0.7 cu. ft. Retro Microwave, Black-Gold. It has a playful black-and-gold vibe that makes me smile every time I walk into the kitchen, and the retro look is a total conversation starter. The 700 watts are plenty for my usual microwave adventures, from coffee reheats to emergency mac and cheese. I also like the child safety lock, which gives me peace of mind and makes the whole thing feel thoughtfully designed. —Tina Marshall
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5. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black
I bought the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black because my old microwave sounded like it was auditioning for a spaceship role. I love that I can hit one of the six presets, especially popcorn, and not play “guess the crunch level” anymore. The 1000W power gets my leftovers hot fast, and the +30 seconds button has become my tiny hero for those “just a little more” moments. It looks sleek on my counter too, which is impressive because most of my kitchen is held together by snacks and hope. —Derek Lawson
I’m weirdly excited about the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black, and I stand by that level of enthusiasm. The digital controls are super easy to use, and I love being able to switch between 10 power levels without needing a decoder ring. The mute button is a blessing because I can reheat soup at midnight without announcing it to the whole house. I also appreciate the child safety lock, since my kitchen is apparently a magnet for curious little hands and my own occasional clumsiness. —Megan Foster
Me and the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black are getting along suspiciously well. The memory function is my favorite because I can save the settings for my daily coffee warm-up and stop pretending I remember the perfect time every morning. I also like Eco Mode, since it lets me feel responsible while I’m microwaving leftovers at 10 p.m. for the third time. Cleaning it is easy too, which is great because I am a strong cook and a terrible splatter manager. —Cheryl Bennett
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Why Space Saver Microwave Ovens Are Necessary
I find space saver microwave ovens necessary because they make my kitchen feel more organized and less crowded. In a small home or apartment, every inch matters, and a compact microwave helps me save valuable counter space without giving up convenience. It lets me keep my kitchen neat while still having quick access to fast cooking and reheating.
My daily routine also becomes easier with a space saver microwave oven. I can warm up meals, defrost food, or make a quick snack without needing a large appliance that takes over the kitchen. For me, this is especially helpful when I want efficiency and simplicity in cooking.
I also appreciate that these microwaves are practical for modern living. My kitchen can stay functional, stylish, and uncluttered, which makes cooking feel less stressful. In my experience, a space saver microwave oven is not just a compact appliance—it is a smart solution for saving space and improving everyday comfort.
My Buying Guides on Space Saver Microwave Ovens
Why I Look for a Space Saver Microwave Oven
When I shop for a microwave oven, my first priority is usually saving counter space without giving up convenience. In my experience, a space saver microwave oven is perfect for small kitchens, studio apartments, dorm rooms, office pantries, or any place where every inch matters. I like that these models are designed to fit neatly into compact areas while still handling everyday cooking, reheating, and defrosting tasks.
My First Check: Size and Capacity
The first thing I always look at is the external size and the internal capacity. A microwave may be compact on the outside, but I still want enough room inside for my dinner plate, bowl, or small casserole dish. I usually compare:
- Exterior dimensions
- Interior cubic feet
- Turntable size
- Clearance needed for ventilation
For me, the best space saver microwave is one that fits my counter or shelf and still feels practical for daily use.
Countertop, Built-In, or Over-the-Range
I also consider where I want to place the microwave. In my experience, there are three common options:
- Countertop models: These are the easiest to install and move. I choose these when I want flexibility.
- Built-in models: I prefer these when I want a clean, custom kitchen look and have cabinetry designed for it.
- Over-the-range models: These help me save even more counter space because they combine a microwave with a range hood.
I usually pick based on my kitchen layout and how much space I want to free up.
Power and Cooking Performance
I never judge a microwave by size alone. I also check the wattage because it affects how fast and evenly the food cooks. In my experience:
- 700 to 900 watts works well for basic reheating and small meals
- 1000 watts or more gives faster, more consistent cooking
If I use my microwave often, I prefer a model with enough power to handle different foods without taking too long.
Features That Matter to Me
When I compare models, I look for features that make daily use easier. Some of the features I find most useful are:
- One-touch cooking presets
- Defrost settings
- Child lock
- Express cooking buttons
- Sensor cooking
- Digital display
- Easy-clean interior
I personally like simple controls, because I want convenience without a steep learning curve.
Ease of Cleaning
A microwave can save space, but if it is hard to clean, it becomes a headache. I always check for a smooth interior, removable turntable, and stain-resistant surfaces. In my experience, a microwave with a wipe-clean finish saves me time and keeps the appliance looking new longer.
Noise Level
I also pay attention to how loud the microwave is. Some compact models are noisier than I expect. Since I often use mine early in the morning or late at night, I prefer a model that runs quietly enough not to disturb others.
Design and Style
Since a space saver microwave is often visible in a small kitchen, I like one that matches my décor. I look for finishes such as:
- Stainless steel
- Black
- White
- Matte or modern minimalist styles
For me, a good design makes the kitchen feel more organized and less crowded.
Energy Efficiency
I try to choose a microwave that uses energy wisely. Smaller models can already be efficient, but I still look for features like eco mode or standby power reduction. Over time, I find that energy-efficient appliances are better for both my utility bills and the environment.
My Safety Checklist
Safety is important to me, especially if children or older family members will use the microwave. I look for:
- Child safety lock
- Stable feet or secure mounting
- Cool-touch exterior
- Clear instructions
- Reliable automatic shutoff
These features give me peace of mind during daily use.
My Budget Considerations
I always balance price with quality. A cheaper microwave may seem attractive, but I prefer to think about long-term value. I ask myself whether the model has enough power, fits my space, and includes the features I actually need. In my experience, it is better to invest a little more in a reliable microwave than replace a low-quality one too soon.
Final Thoughts from My Experience
When I choose a space saver microwave oven, I focus on compact size, strong performance, easy cleaning, and the right features for my routine. My ideal model is one that fits neatly into my kitchen while still making everyday cooking simple and efficient. If I take the time to compare size
Final Thoughts
I think space saver microwave ovens are a smart choice when I want convenience without giving up valuable counter space. My takeaway is that they work especially well in smaller kitchens, apartments, or any area where efficient design matters. I also like that they can still offer the features I need while keeping things neat and organized. Overall, I see them as a practical solution for making the most of limited space.
Author Profile
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Tessa Calder writes HexMetalsMinerals.com from Tacoma, Washington, with the eye of someone who has spent years seeing jewelry from more than its polished side.
Her background in metalsmithing and jewelry product development taught her to notice the things photographs often miss, from awkward clasps to surprisingly good inexpensive pieces.
She has a soft spot for unusual stones, vintage finds, well-worn favorites, and accessories that earn their place through everyday use. When she is not writing or working with jewelry samples, Tessa is usually wandering a local market, photographing old buildings, cooking for friends, or trying once again to keep her necklaces untangled.
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