The best small 700 watt microwave is your ideal solution for efficient countertop cooking in tight living spaces, perfect for dorm rooms or small apartments. When selecting one, consider crucial differences in capacity, interior design, and programmability, as a mismatch can lead to wasted counter space or inefficient heating. Choosing incorrectly means settling for less than optimal performance.
This selection focuses on models that maximize functionality within their compact frames, ensuring you get the most out of your purchase. We’ve curated a list of top contenders to help you find the perfect compact companion for your kitchen needs in 2026.
For a compact kitchen, the best small 700 watt microwave offers convenient features in a small footprint. Many models, such as the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Countertop Microwave Oven, provide 700 watts of power along with useful presets for common cooking tasks.
Look for options with a child lock feature for safety and adjustable power levels for precise heating.
Best Small 700 Watt Microwave: Top Picks at a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Best for: Basic countertop use | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Best for: Digital control convenience | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode Best for: Energy-conscious cooks | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft., 700-watt Capacity, Best for: Small kitchen essential | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | FRIGIDAIRE EMW733BLACKAMZ 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black Best for: Everyday heating | Check Price |
How We Picked
To identify the best small 700 watt microwave, we prioritized real-world performance and safety. We evaluated build quality and durability based on features like sturdy construction and reliable components seen in models like the Farberware and GE. Standout features such as programmable presets (BLACK+DECKER, Chefman) and user-friendly controls (COSMIC, FRIGIDAIRE) were key differentiators.
We ruled out models lacking essential safety features like child locks, ensuring a secure user experience. The chosen microwaves offer excellent value for their consistent performance and thoughtful design, fitting seamlessly into any compact kitchen in 2026.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Matching Cubic Footage to Your Counter Space
When opting for a small microwave, the 0.7 cu. ft. capacity is a common denominator among these 700-watt models.
This compact size is ideal for kitchens with limited counter space, dorm rooms, or even office break areas. Brands like Farberware, GE, and Frigidaire consistently offer this 0.7 cu.
ft. size, ensuring they won’t dominate your workspace. Consider how much you typically heat, as this capacity is perfect for single servings or reheating leftovers, keeping your footprint minimal.
Decoding Wattage for Efficient Heating
The 700-watt rating on these microwaves is a key indicator of their cooking power, representing the energy output. While higher wattage often means faster cooking, 700 watts is generally sufficient for most everyday tasks like defrosting, reheating, and cooking small portions. Black+Decker, for instance, offers 700 watts with multiple power settings, allowing you to adjust the intensity from gentle warming to more robust cooking.
Understanding this spec helps you balance speed with the versatility needed for various meal preparations.
1. Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts
Best for: Ideal for straightforward reheating and defrosting tasks.
Prepare quick meals with 700 watts of cooking power, enabling press-and-go speed thanks to its intuitive controls. The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity fits standard dishes, making everyday meal prep efficient.
This microwave features ten power levels and multi-stage cooking for customized preparation. Six one-touch options, including popcorn and potato, offer convenience, while defrost by weight or time manages frozen items effectively.
Pros
- 10 power levels for precise cooking.
- 6 one-touch preset programs included.
- Defrost by weight or time.
- 0.7 cu. ft. interior capacity.
Cons
- Child safety lock is a single step.
This Farberware model is a solid choice for individuals needing a no-frills microwave. It’s perfect for dorm rooms or small office kitchens where simple operation is key.
2. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child
Best for: Best for quick meals with useful presets and safety features.
Cook popcorn, potatoes, or a frozen vegetable with dedicated buttons, all powered by 700 watts on ten different power levels. Its compact 17.3″ x 13.0″ x 10.2″ dimensions maximize counter space.
This digital microwave offers a 30-second express cooking function and a removable 10” glass turntable that ensures even heating. The large LED display provides clear visibility of time and settings, with a child safety lock for added security.
Pros
- Dedicated cooking buttons for 6 common items.
- 10 distinct power levels.
- 30-second express cook option.
- Removable 10-inch glass turntable.
Cons
- Operates on 110 Volts, not 120 Volts.
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is ideal for students or small households needing quick meal preparation. Its user-friendly interface and essential presets make it a practical countertop addition.
3. COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode
Best for: Great for quiet kitchens with sound-off and ECO modes.
Enjoy a quiet cooking experience with a sound-off mute function, alongside 700 watts of power and 11 adjustable power levels. The ECO mode helps conserve energy when not in active use.
This microwave offers two defrost settings (by weight or time) and easy one-touch express cooking for 1-6 minutes plus a +30 seconds option. Its button control panel provides access to 9 cooking programs for versatile meal preparation.
Pros
- Mute function for quiet operation.
- ECO mode for energy saving.
- 11 power levels available.
- Two defrost modes.
Cons
- Cooking programs are limited to 9.
This COMFEE’ microwave is perfect for shared living spaces or early risers who prefer not to disturb others. Its emphasis on quiet operation and energy saving makes it a considerate choice.
4. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft., 700-watt Capacity,
Best for: Compact countertop solution with one-touch heating.
Efficiently heat meals using 700 watts of power in a compact 0.7 cu. ft. interior that doesn’t consume excessive counter space. The glass turntable ensures even cooking without manual rotation.
This GE microwave offers ten power levels and a simple one-touch operation for convenience, alongside essential defrosting capabilities. A two-step child lock provides safety, and its freestanding design fits easily on countertops.
Pros
- 0.7 cu. ft. compact capacity.
- 10 power levels available.
- One-touch operation for ease.
- Two-step child lock feature.
Cons
- Limited to 4 preset programs.
This GE countertop microwave is designed for small kitchens or limited counter space. It’s ideal for individuals or families who need a reliable appliance for basic reheating and defrosting.
5. FRIGIDAIRE EMW733BLACKAMZ 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black
Best for: Feature-rich digital panel with versatile defrosting.
Effortlessly select cooking options with the digital control panel, offering ten power levels and express cooking for immediate use. Two defrost timers provide dual control over thawing frozen foods.
This 0.7 cu. ft. microwave allows for deferred starts, time setting, and a stop/cancel function, all managed through its intuitive digital interface. 700 watts of power ensure efficient heating, and a child safety lock prevents accidental operation.
Pros
- User-friendly digital control panel.
- Two distinct defrost timers.
- 10 power levels offer flexibility.
- Child safety lock included.
Cons
- No explicit mention of preset cooking programs.
The FRIGIDAIRE EMW733 is well-suited for users who appreciate digital controls and precise timing. It’s a good fit for individuals wanting more control over reheating and defrosting tasks.
6. FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black
Best for: Compact and convenient for dorms and apartments.
This 0.7 cu. ft. countertop microwave fits perfectly in dorm rooms, apartments, or workplaces, offering convenient digital controls for speedy meal preparation. 700 watts of power ensure efficient cooking.
Featuring a digital control panel, this microwave provides options for express cooking, adjusting power levels, and setting timers, alongside two defrost timers for versatile thawing. Its compact design makes it ideal for smaller spaces.
Pros
- Compact 0.7 cu. ft. size.
- Digital control panel for ease.
- Two defrost timers included.
- Suitable for small spaces.
Cons
- Manual operation, no specific presets listed.
This FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK is a practical choice for smaller living spaces or shared kitchens. Its efficient use of space and straightforward digital controls make it user-friendly.
7. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft., 700-watt Capacity,
Best for: Versatile microwave with under-cabinet installation option.
Cook and reheat with 700 watts of power in a compact 0.7 cu. ft. interior, featuring a rotating glass turntable for even results. This freestanding microwave offers flexible installation, including under-cabinet mounting.
Designed with a two-step child lock for safety, this GE microwave boasts ten power levels and essential one-touch buttons for quick operation. Its 0.7 cu. ft. capacity is suitable for everyday reheating and defrosting needs.
Pros
- Optional under-cabinet installation.
- 10 power levels for control.
- 0.7 cu. ft. compact size.
- Two-step child lock.
Cons
- Requires sale of optional hanging kit for under-cabinet use.
This GE microwave is ideal for those with limited counter space who value installation flexibility. It’s a good option for kitchens where maximizing usable surface area is a priority.
8. 0.7 Cu. Ft. Compact Microwave Oven, 700W, 11 Power Levels,
Best for: Excellent for precise cooking with 11 power levels.
Achieve precise cooking results with 700 watts delivered across 11 adjustable power levels, perfect for everything from defrosting to full-power reheating. The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity fits everyday dishes.
This compact microwave oven includes auto defrost and presets for pizza, popcorn, and more, simplifying meal preparation. Its digital control system makes selecting power levels and cooking times straightforward for quick use.
Pros
- 11 distinct power levels.
- Auto Defrost function.
- 0.7 cu. ft. compact size.
- Presets for popular items.
Cons
- No specific interior dimensions provided.
This compact microwave is best for individuals or small households seeking precise control over their cooking. Its range of power levels makes it suitable for varied defrosting and reheating tasks.
9. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with
Best for: Offers programming versatility with Air Fry and Bake modes.
Prepare a variety of meals with 700 watts of power, including specialized Air Fry and Bake functions, plus 10 adjustable power levels for precise cooking. The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity fits standard dinnerware.
This digital microwave includes six popular presets and a mute button for quiet operation, along with defrost capabilities. Its touch controls allow easy selection of cooking times and power settings for rapid meal preparation.
Pros
- Air Fry and Bake cooking modes.
- 10 power levels for customization.
- Mute button for quiet use.
- 0.7 cu. ft. interior capacity.
Cons
- Air Fry function is basic, not a dedicated appliance.
The Chefman microwave is ideal for home cooks seeking more than just basic reheating. Its inclusion of Air Fry and Bake modes broadens its utility for small kitchens or apartments.
10. Whirlpool WMCS3018RB Countertop Microwave with Turntable 0.7 Cu. Ft, Steam
Best for: Features steam clean for easy maintenance.
Effortlessly clean your microwave with the integrated Steam Clean function, reducing manual scrubbing. This 0.7 cu. ft. model operates with 700 watts for efficient warming and defrosting.
Equipped with various Auto Functions, this Whirlpool microwave simplifies reheating, defrosting, and keeping dishes warm. Four Express Buttons provide quick start options, eliminating the need to input specific times.
Pros
- Steam Clean function for easy maintenance.
- Multiple Auto Functions included.
- 4 Express Buttons for quick start.
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity.
Cons
- No visible mention of power level adjustment.
This Whirlpool microwave is a great choice for busy individuals or families who value easy cleanup. Its steam cleaning feature simplifies maintenance, making it a convenient kitchen appliance.
Small Microwaves: Control Panel Complexity
The primary differentiator among best small 700 watt microwave options is not raw power or even capacity, but the user interface and its associated feature set.
While every unit here offers the baseline 700 watts necessary for basic reheating and cooking, the path to accessing those functions varies dramatically. For instance, the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB and the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft., 700-watt Capacity, both include a two-step child lock, a safety feature mandated by current standards. However, the COMFEE’ further adds a mute function for its beeps, a seemingly minor amenity that can be crucial for noise-sensitive environments like offices or late-night snacking in shared living spaces.
Conversely, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child, leans heavily on pre-programmed buttons, offering single-touch access to common items like popcorn and potatoes, which simplifies operation for users who prioritize speed and simplicity over granular control.
This focus on user interaction is where actual purchase decisions should hinge. The FRIGIDAIRE EMW733BLACKAMZ and FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK, for example, both feature digital panels that facilitate precise time adjustments and power level changes. The subtle difference here is that the EMW733BLACKAMZ explicitly calls out express cooking options, suggesting a slightly more intuitive approach for quick start functions.
Another option, the 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Compact Microwave Oven, 700W, 11 Power Levels, offers a more robust 11 power levels compared to the typical 6 or 10 found on other models, providing a wider spectrum of cooking precision for those who need it. The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with its six popular presets is another example of a brand making a clear choice about its target user: someone who wants common tasks button-accessible.
Ultimately, evaluating a best small 700 watt microwave requires looking beyond mere wattage and cubic footage. Consider how you intend to use the appliance. If your daily routine involves reheating leftovers with simple timer settings, the straightforward approach of the Farberware 0.7 Cu.
Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts might suffice.
However, if you frequently prepare specific items or desire greater control over the cooking process, the digital interfaces offering more programming options, like those on the FRIGIDAIRE models or the 0.7 Cu. Ft. Compact Microwave Oven, 700W, 11 Power Levels, will provide a more satisfying user experience.
For the user who values absolute silence during operation, the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB with its mute function is the standout choice.
How to Choose Your Best Small 700 Watt Microwave
Interior capacity and turntable size
For a 700-watt microwave, prioritize a 0.7 to 0.9 cubic foot interior capacity. This range comfortably fits standard 10-12 inch dinner plates, preventing common spills and ensuring even heating. Look for a turntable diameter of at least 10 inches for optimal rotation.
If you frequently heat taller items like mugs or small casseroles, a slightly greater interior height is crucial. For everyday tasks and single servings, a 0.7 cu.
ft. model with a 10-inch turntable is the optimal choice, while a 0.9 cu. ft.
unit offers more versatility for slightly larger portions or taller containers.
Countertop footprint and dimensions
When space is at a premium, select a microwave with a width between 17 and 19 inches and a depth of 12 to 14 inches. Crucially, ensure at least 3 inches of clearance on the sides and back and 4 inches on top for proper ventilation, preventing overheating and extending the appliance’s life. A lighter unit, under 25 pounds, offers easier placement and portability if you need to reposition it.
For tight countertops, a model with a slim profile and integrated ventilation is best, prioritizing a width closer to 17 inches and a depth under 13 inches.
Preset cooking programs and functions
Beyond simple reheating, a good 700-watt microwave offers practical presets. Opt for models with at least popcorn, potato, and beverage functions for convenience. Effective weight and time defrost options are essential for quick meal preparation.
Look for distinct ‘cook’ and ‘reheat’ settings that offer more precise temperature control than a standard ‘start’ button. A clear digital timer with an easily visible clock display is a must for managing cooking times accurately.
For efficiency, choose a model that includes popcorn and weight defrost presets.
Ease of use and cleaning
User-friendliness is paramount in a compact microwave. A straightforward control panel with clearly labeled buttons, including a numerical keypad, ensures easy operation. An interior enamel coating is superior for durability and simple wipe-down cleaning.
A removable glass turntable that is dishwasher-safe significantly simplifies cleanup. For kitchens where appearance matters, choose a stainless steel or fingerprint-resistant exterior finish.
For the easiest maintenance, select a model with an enamel interior and a dishwasher-safe turntable.
Which Should You Choose?
- If your primary concern is safety and preventing accidental use, look for models with a two-step child lock feature.
- If you need simple operation and quick access to common cooking tasks, choose a microwave with pre-programmed buttons for items like popcorn, potatoes, and beverages.
- If you want flexibility in cooking power and ease of use for various tasks, opt for a microwave with multiple power levels and a digital control panel.
- If you value a quieter kitchen environment, consider a model that offers a mute function for the beeps and alerts.
Quick Best Small 700 Watt Microwave Buying Checklist
- Measure Your Space Confirm the microwave’s external dimensions fit your designated kitchen spot.
- Check Turntable Size Ensure it accommodates your everyday dinnerware.
- Evaluate Capacity Needs Select a cubic foot size appropriate for single servings or small meals.
- Consider Preset Functions Identify common cooking tasks you’ll use presets for.
- Assess Venting Requirements Allow adequate space around the unit for airflow.
- Prioritize Easy Cleaning Look for smooth interior surfaces and removable turntables.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Typical Interior Capacity Of A Small 700 Watt Microwave?
Small 700 watt microwaves typically offer an interior capacity ranging from 0.7 to 0.9 cubic feet. This size is generally sufficient for heating individual servings or small food items, making it ideal for dorm rooms or compact kitchens. Larger plates might require a bit of careful angling.
How Does A 700 Watt Microwave Differ In Cooking Speed From Higher Wattage Models?
A 700 watt microwave cooks food more slowly compared to higher wattage models, like 900 or 1000 watts. This lower power means longer cooking times are generally needed for the same results. It’s best suited for lighter reheating, defrosting, or cooking simpler dishes.
What Are The Main Advantages Of A Compact Microwave In A Small Kitchen?
Compact microwaves, like small 700 watt models, are perfect for saving precious counter space in small kitchens. Their modest footprint makes them easy to place without overwhelming the area. They provide essential heating functions without demanding significant room.
Are Pre-Set Cooking Options Important For A 700 Watt Microwave?
Pre-set cooking options can be very helpful on a 700 watt microwave, simplifying common tasks. Buttons for popcorn, potatoes, or beverages offer a convenient way to start cooking without manual time setting. They are particularly useful for quick reheating or snack preparation.
What Should I Look For In Terms Of Ease Of Cleaning For A Small Microwave?
When choosing a small microwave, opt for models with a smooth interior coating, like enamel, which wipes clean easily. A removable and dishwasher-safe glass turntable is also a key feature. These elements make maintenance straightforward for your compact appliance.
Final Words
Selecting the best small 700 watt microwave offers a practical heating solution for compact living spaces. These models provide essential functionality without compromising valuable counter real estate. Embrace the convenience and efficiency that a well-chosen compact microwave brings to your daily routine.