The best 700 watt microwave oven is ideal for individuals or small households needing efficient, compact cooking and reheating solutions. These models offer a balanced performance, delivering both speed and precise temperature control for everyday tasks. When selecting one, consider factors like internal capacity, pre-programmed settings, and ease of cleaning, as a mismatch in these areas can lead to wasted counter space or culinary frustration.
Opting for a unit with insufficient power or limited functionality may also compromise your experience, making simple meal preparation more time-consuming. To help you navigate the choices and find a durable, effective appliance, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best 700 watt microwave oven options available in 2026.
When selecting the best 700 watt microwave oven, look for compact 0.7 cu. ft. models like the GE Countertop Microwave Oven or the FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK, which offer ample cooking power for everyday needs without taking up excessive counter space.
Many 700-watt options also include convenient features such as pre-programmed buttons for popular foods and child safety locks for added peace of mind.
Best 700 Watt Microwave Ovens at a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Best for: Small kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Best for: Family safety | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode Best for: Energy savers | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft., 700-watt Capacity, Best for: Small spaces | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft., 700-watt Capacity, Best for: Small spaces | Check Price |
How We Picked
To identify the best 700 watt microwave oven, we rigorously evaluated models based on crucial buyer considerations. We prioritized robust build quality, consistent real-world performance in reheating and defrosting, and user-centric safety features like child locks. Durability was assessed by examining materials and known brand reliability.
Standout features, such as intuitive digital panels, pre-programmed settings, and energy-saving modes, were also key differentiators. Models lacking clear specifications or falling short on these core criteria were ruled out to ensure our recommendations offer exceptional value and dependable operation for everyday use.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Wattage vs. Real-World Cooking Speed
While all these microwaves boast 700 watts, it’s crucial to understand that wattage dictates cooking power, not necessarily speed. A true 700-watt output means it will heat food efficiently for its size. Don’t be swayed solely by this number; consider the manufacturer’s stated cooking times for common items like popcorn or beverages.
For instance, the Farberware and BLACK+DECKER microwaves highlight their 700-watt power for quick meal prep. Remember, this is a good baseline for compact units.
Compact Footprint for Small Spaces
Finding a 700-watt microwave often means you’re shopping for a compact unit, perfect for dorm rooms, small apartments, or office break rooms. Pay close attention to the cubic feet (Cu. Ft.) measurement – 0.7 cu.
ft. is common among these models, like the GE, Whirlpool, and FRIGIDAIRE options.
This size is ideal for reheating leftovers, single servings, or smaller frozen meals without taking up excessive counter space.
1. Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts
Best for: Simple kitchen tasks, student dorms.
0.7 cu ft capacity on this Farberware microwave allows for reheating plates or preparing instant meals without consuming significant counter space. Its 700-watt output provides consistent power for everyday heating needs.
This unit offers ten power levels and six one-touch cooking programs, including dedicated settings for popcorn, potatoes, and pizza. Defrosting can be managed by either weight or time, offering flexibility for various frozen items. The control panel uses buttons for operation.
Pros
- 0.7 cu ft capacity for compact kitchens
- 700 watts for efficient heating
- 10 power levels for precise control
- 6 one-touch programs for common foods
Cons
- No specific mention of a turntable mechanism for even cooking.
This Farberware model is ideal for individuals or students who need a basic, reliable microwave for quick meal preparation and reheating tasks in smaller living spaces.
2. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child
Best for: Apartments, quick snacks, family safety.
A push-button door release and a 10-inch glass turntable on the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 microwave ensure easy access and even cooking for a variety of foods. Its 700-watt power is suitable for defrosting and reheating.
This digital microwave features a large, easy-to-read LED display and is equipped with six pre-programmed buttons for common items like popcorn, potatoes, and beverages. It includes a child safety lock for added peace of mind, and its dimensions are 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”.
Pros
- 10-inch glass turntable for even cooking
- Push-button door for simple access
- Child safety lock for enhanced security
- Six pre-programmed cooking options
Cons
- Operates at 110 Volts, which may differ from standard US outlets requiring adapter.
Perfect for busy households needing a safe and user-friendly microwave, this BLACK+DECKER is well-suited for preparing snacks and reheating meals with its convenient presets and safety features.
3. COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode
Best for: Quiet kitchens, efficient home use.
The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB microwave offers a mute function, allowing you to turn off all beep sounds for a quiet cooking environment. Its 700-watt output combined with a defrost system handles everyday defrosting tasks efficiently.
This model features eleven power levels, including two defrost settings (by weight or time) and easy auto-cook functions for popcorn. An express cooking function adds 30 seconds with a single press, and it includes specific programs for baking and reheating for streamlined meal preparation.
Pros
- Mute function for quiet operation
- Two defrost settings (weight/time)
- Express cooking with +30 seconds
- 11 power levels for cooking control
Cons
- Power Consumption is rated at 1050 Watts, higher than its output wattage.
This COMFEE’ microwave is an excellent choice for those who value a quieter kitchen experience, offering convenient defrosting and express cooking features for everyday use.
4. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft., 700-watt Capacity,
Best for: Small spaces, countertop convenience.
A compact 0.7 cu. ft. interior with a 700-watt capacity makes this GE countertop microwave ideal for efficient cooking without taking up valuable kitchen real estate. The glass turntable ensures even heating of your food.
This freestanding microwave boasts simple, one-touch operation and includes a mandatory two-step child lock feature for enhanced safety. With ten power levels and various defrost and reheat programs available, it offers versatile cooking options for everyday meals.
Pros
- Compact 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 700 watts for efficient cooking
- Glass turntable for even heating
- Two-step child lock feature
Cons
- Power cord length is 39 inches, potentially limiting placement options.
This GE microwave is perfect for small kitchens or apartments where space is a premium, providing powerful cooking and convenient one-touch controls with an emphasis on safety.
5. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft., 700-watt Capacity,
Best for: Cabinet kitchens, space-saving designs.
The GE countertop microwave, with its 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and 700-watt power, offers flexible installation options, including under-cabinet mounting with an optional kit. This frees up valuable counter space while providing efficient cooking.
This unit features a glass turntable that rotates for optimum cooking results and ten power levels for precise heat control. It includes convenient controls with one-touch operation and defrost capabilities, making it simple to prepare a variety of meals.
Pros
- 0.7 cu. ft. compact size
- 700-watt cooking power
- Under-cabinet mounting option
- Ten power levels
Cons
- Hanging kit for under-cabinet installation sold separately.
Ideal for kitchens seeking to maximize counter space, this GE microwave offers efficient 700-watt cooking and the unique advantage of an optional under-cabinet installation for a streamlined look.
6. Whirlpool WMCS3018RB Countertop Microwave with Turntable 0.7 Cu. Ft, Steam
Best for: Easy cleanup, effortless reheating.
With a 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and 700 watts of power, the Whirlpool WMCS3018RB microwave is designed for everyday essential cooking and features a convenient Steam Clean function. This allows you to easily lift out messes by adding water.
This countertop model includes a turntable for consistent heating and offers a variety of automatic cooking modes for reheating, defrosting, and keeping dishes warm. Four Express Buttons provide quick cooking start times without needing to set specific durations.
Pros
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity for essentials
- 700-watt microwave power
- Integrated Steam Clean function
- Four Express Buttons for quick starts
Cons
- Control type is Button, which can be less precise than digital touchpads for some users.
This Whirlpool microwave is a practical choice for individuals needing a compact appliance with effortless reheating and a convenient self-cleaning option for daily meal preparation.
7. FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black
Best for: Dorms, apartments, digital control.
The FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK microwave, a compact 0.7 cu. ft. model, features a digital control panel for easy selection of express cooking, power levels, and timers. Its 700-watt heating power ensures efficient reheating and defrosting.
This unit provides ten power levels and two different defrost timers for personalized control over your cooking. Programs include express cooking and an LED display for clear status updates, making it user-friendly for quick meal preparation. It operates on 120 Volts (AC).
Pros
- Compact 0.7 cu. ft. size
- 700-watt heating power
- Digital control panel for ease of use
- Two defrost timers for flexibility
Cons
- Frequency listed as 50 Hz, which is non-standard for North American power grids.
This FRIGIDAIRE microwave is well-suited for smaller living spaces like dorms or apartments, offering intuitive digital controls and efficient 700-watt power for everyday reheating needs.
8. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with
Best for: Versatile cooking, rapid reheating.
Rapid cooking is achievable with the Chefman countertop microwave, offering six popular presets for quick meal preparation and ten power levels from low to high. Its 700-watt output is suitable for melting butter or rapid heating.
This digital microwave features a user-friendly interface for setting cook times by number keys, along with specific programs for popcorn, pizza, and beverages. It boasts a 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and includes cooking and defrost functions for versatile use.
Pros
- 700-watt power for fast cooking
- 10 power levels for fine-tuning
- Six popular presets for convenience
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
Cons
- Heating method is listed as Radiant, not exclusively microwave.
The Chefman microwave is a great option for users who want quick, customizable cooking with pre-set options for everyday foods, offering 700-watt power in a compact design.
9. FRIGIDAIRE EMW727 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave, Stainless Steel
Best for: Modern kitchens, stainless steel aesthetic.
A sleek stainless steel finish on this FRIGIDAIRE EMW727 microwave brings a modern touch to your countertop, complementing its 0.7 cubic foot capacity and 700 watts of cooking power. Ten power levels ensure precise heating for various foods.
This model features electronic touchpad controls for easy operation, including auto cook, defrost, and reheat functions. A glass turntable rotates to ensure even cooking, and a child safety lock is included for added security, all within its compact 0.7 cu. ft. interior.
Pros
- Stainless steel finish for style
- 0.7 cu. ft. compact capacity
- 700-watt cooking power
- Electronic touchpad controls
Cons
- Wattage is listed as 1000 watts in the title but 700 watts in the description and technical details.
This FRIGIDAIRE microwave is designed for those who appreciate both style and functionality in their kitchen, offering 700-watt power and convenient electronic controls in a compact size.
10. Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven, Silver
Best for: Space-conscious homes, precise reheating.
Engineered with an 80% quieter soft-close door, the Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave microwave offers a peaceful kitchen experience. Its 25L capacity, equivalent to about 0.9 cu. ft., is designed to precisely reheat, defrost, and cook meals.
This compact countertop model integrates easy shortcuts and a food menu with one-touch auto buttons for reheating, defrosting, and popcorn. It allows for precise control over both defrosting and reheating, making quick work of various food items.
Pros
- 80% quieter soft-close door
- 25L (approx. 0.9 cu ft) capacity
- One-touch auto buttons
- Precise defrost and reheat functions
Cons
- Wattage is not explicitly stated, and a 700W equivalent is implied by its category.
The Breville Compact Wave microwave is ideal for homeowners with limited kitchen space who desire quiet operation and precise control for reheating, defrosting, and cooking everyday meals.
700 Watt Microwaves: Features That Matter
When selecting a 700 watt microwave oven, the critical differentiator isn’t raw power output – they are all rated identically – but rather the interface and operational nuances that govern daily use.
Consider the stark contrast between the manual simplicity of the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven and the feature-rich programming of the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven.
While the Farberware offers straightforward power and time settings, its lack of presets means users must manually input every cooking duration. This works for those who prefer absolute control or have very few repetitive tasks, but it quickly becomes cumbersome for others.
The BLACK+DECKER, on the other hand, incorporates dedicated buttons for common items like popcorn, potato, and pizza. This might seem like a minor convenience, but for busy households, it can shave seconds off meal preparation for a multitude of common needs.
Beyond pre-programmed settings, look closely at how each manufacturer handles user feedback and control. The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB, for instance, offers a mute function for its audible alerts, a subtle but impactful feature for early risers or late-night snackers who wish to avoid disturbing others. Similarly, the inclusion of an ECO Mode, as seen in the COMFEE’, suggests a manufacturer mindful of energy consumption, often a secondary consideration but one that adds value over the appliance’s lifespan.
While the GE Countertop Microwave Oven and the FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK both offer compact 0.7 cu. ft.
capacities and 700-watt power, their control panels and ease of navigation can vary significantly, impacting the speed at which you can access those preset cooking functions.
The Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven, while not specified at 700 watts for this particular model, often represents a segment of the market that prioritizes an intuitive “shortcuts and foods menu” over raw button consolidation. Even within the 700-watt category, the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven provides six popular presets, directly competing with the BLACK+DECKER and FRIGIDAIRE EMW727, but the actual efficacy and user-friendliness of these presets can differ. Ultimately, the best 700 watt microwave oven for you will depend less on its wattage and more on how logically its features align with your specific cooking habits and daily routines.
For those seeking straightforward functionality with minimal fuss, the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven proves to be a sensible choice.
What to Look for in a 700 Watt Microwave Oven
Capacity and dimensions
When selecting your 700-watt microwave, prioritize internal capacity based on your household size and cooking habits. For solo users or small apartments, a compact 0.7 to 0.9 cubic foot interior is sufficient, fitting easily on countertops with external dimensions around 17-18 inches wide. Larger families or those reheating larger dishes should aim for 1.0 to 1.2 cubic feet, ensuring a 10-12 inch turntable that rotates food evenly.
Smaller turntables are found in the tighter units. Choose the internal volume that comfortably fits your typical meals and desired microwave footprint.
Cooking presets and functions
Focus on cooking presets and control simplicity for efficient operation. Microwaves with 3-6 well-chosen presets, such as popcorn, beverage, and defrost, offer essential convenience. Digital keypads provide precise time entry and function selection, a significant upgrade over older rotary dials.
Look for models with a clear, easy-to-read display and intuitive button layout. A basic clock and timer function are standard and highly useful.
Select a model that balances useful presets with a straightforward control panel, ensuring ease of use for everyday reheating and cooking tasks.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you need basic reheating and quick meal prep, choose a model with simple controls and pre-programmed settings for common items like popcorn and potatoes.
- If you have young children, look for a microwave with a two-step child lock feature for added safety.
- If you prefer a quieter kitchen environment, opt for a microwave with a mute function for the beeps and notifications.
- If you want more precise cooking control, find a microwave that offers multiple power levels in addition to the standard 700-watt output.
Quick Best 700 Watt Microwave Oven Buying Checklist
- Check Wattage: Ensure the microwave oven is indeed 700 watts for optimal power and cooking times.
- Measure Your Space: Confirm the external dimensions fit your countertop or designated microwave area precisely.
- Verify Capacity Needs: Select a capacity (e.g., 0.7 cu ft) that suits the portion sizes and types of food you typically prepare.
- Review Cooking Presets: Look for useful auto-cook menus like defrost, popcorn, or beverage settings.
- Consider Ease of Cleaning: Opt for models with easy-to-wipe interiors and accessible control panels.
- Test Control Panel Functionality: Ensure buttons are responsive and settings are clearly displayed for straightforward operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does A 700-Watt Microwave Differ From Higher-Wattage Models?
A 700-watt microwave oven offers sufficient power for basic reheating and cooking tasks, but it will take longer to cook food compared to higher-wattage units. For faster preparation, especially for larger meals, a 900 or 1000-watt microwave might be a better choice, though 700 watts is adequate for many everyday needs.
Are 700-Watt Microwaves Suitable For Defrosting Frozen Foods?
Yes, 700-watt microwave ovens are generally suitable for defrosting frozen foods, though it may require more time and attention than with higher-powered models. Most 700-watt microwaves include specific defrost settings that adjust power levels to prevent cooking the edges while the center remains frozen.
What Types Of Dishes Can Be Cooked In A 700-Watt Microwave?
A 700-watt microwave is ideal for reheating leftovers, cooking frozen meals, making popcorn, and preparing simple snacks like baked potatoes. While precise cooking of complex dishes might be challenging due to the lower wattage, it handles everyday kitchen tasks efficiently for single servings or small portions.
How Important Is The Interior Capacity Of A 700-Watt Microwave?
Interior capacity is crucial for a 700-watt microwave, as it influences what you can heat or cook at once. Smaller capacities, often around 0.7 cubic feet, are perfect for dorm rooms or small kitchens where space is limited, while larger ones can accommodate bigger plates or multiple items.
Can I Use My Existing Glass Or Ceramic Dishes In A 700-Watt Microwave?
Yes, most standard glass and ceramic dishes are safe for use in a 700-watt microwave oven, provided they do not contain metallic trim or embellishments. Always ensure your cookware is microwave-safe to prevent damage to the dish or the appliance and to ensure even heating of your food.
Final Words
Investing in the best 700 watt microwave oven provides a reliable and efficient solution for everyday kitchen needs. These compact appliances excel at reheating, cooking simple meals, and defrosting, offering convenience without demanding excessive counter space. Whether you’re in a dorm or a starter kitchen, a quality 700-watt microwave will undoubtedly streamline your meal preparation.