The best space saver microwave provides essential cooking functions without occupying excessive counter real estate, ideal for apartments, dorms, and small kitchens. While all these compact appliances heat food, their efficiency, power output, special features like convection cooking, and overall build quality vary significantly, impacting your cooking experience. Choosing the wrong unit can mean inadequate performance, faster wear-and-tear, and a frustrating kitchen setup, ultimately wasting your investment.
To help you find the perfect fit, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best space saver microwave models available this year, each offering a smart solution for limited spaces.
The best space saver microwave prioritizes compact dimensions without sacrificing essential functionality, making models like the FRIGIDAIRE EMW733BLACKAMZ or FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK ideal for small kitchens due to their 0.7 cu. ft. capacity.
Even more advanced features can be found in space-saving designs, such as the GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, which offers 1.0 cu. ft.
capacity along with air fry and convection capabilities.
Best Space Saver Microwave: Top Picks at a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Best for: Simple home use | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4″ Removable Best for: Large family meals | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry, Combi, Bake, Roast, Best for: Multi-functional cooking | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection Best for: Convection cooking needs | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Best for: Basic countertop use | Check Price |
How We Picked
We meticulously evaluated these microwaves for the best space saver microwave title by prioritizing build quality, real-world performance, and safety. Standout features like air frying (Black+Decker, GE) and smart inverter technology (LG) were key differentiators. We ruled out models that lacked essential safety features like child locks or offered significantly smaller capacities without compensating advantages.
Durability was inferred from material descriptions and brand reputation, ensuring long-term value. Performance was assessed based on wattage and available cooking functions, aiming for versatility within a compact footprint.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Cabinet Depth is Crucial for Countertop Fit
When searching for a space-saving microwave, pay close attention to the external dimensions, particularly the depth. Many standard microwaves can jut out too far, creating a tripping hazard or blocking pathways. Look for models with shallower depths that won’t overwhelm your limited counter space.
For instance, the LG Countertop Microwave, measuring 18.75x14x10.69 inches, offers a more compact profile. Always measure your available counter space before purchasing to ensure a comfortable fit.
Compact Footprint, Mighty Features
Don’t let a small exterior fool you into thinking a microwave lacks power or functionality. Many compact models pack a punch. The Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave, for example, boasts a 25L capacity within its small footprint, perfect for reheating, defrosting, and cooking.
Similarly, the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) offers essential auto-menus despite its compact design. Prioritize your cooking needs and then find the smallest model that can meet them.
1. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute
Best for: Compact kitchens, busy families.
With 900 watts of microwave output power, this TOSHIBA oven quickly reheats meals and beverages. Its 18.7-inch width fits neatly on countertops, freeing up valuable workspace.
Two-Step Child Lock ensures safety, while 11 power levels offer precise control. The internal dimensions of 12.1 x 10.9 x 7.6 inches accommodate a 10.6-inch turntable for even cooking.
Pros
- 900-watt power for speedy heating
- Compact 18.7-inch width
- 11 power levels
- Child Safety Lock
Cons
- Mute function is not available.
This TOSHIBA microwave is ideal for small kitchens needing a reliable cooker. It’s perfect for families prioritizing safety and quick meal preparation.
2. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4″ Removable
Best for: Tech-savvy cooks, larger portions.
Featuring Smart Sensor Technology, this TOSHIBA microwave automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity for perfect results. Its 1.2 cu. ft. capacity handles larger dishes.
The 1000-watt output combined with 10 power levels ensures versatile cooking. Internal dimensions of 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches and a 12.4-inch turntable accommodate family-sized meals.
Pros
- Smart Sensor Technology for optimal cooking
- 1000-watt power
- 1.2 cu. ft. capacity
- 10 power levels
Cons
- Energy Consumption is 1550 Watts.
For those who value precision and efficiency, this TOSHIBA microwave offers advanced sensor cooking. It’s a great fit for busy households wanting perfectly cooked meals.
3. BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry, Combi, Bake, Roast,
Best for: Home chefs, multi-function needs.
This BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 appliance functions as a microwave, air fryer, combi oven, baker, and roaster, consolidating multiple kitchen gadgets. It offers 900 watts of cooking power.
Enjoy versatile cooking with 10 power levels and 7 auto menus. This compact unit provides Air Fry capabilities with 11 specific preset menus for added convenience.
Pros
- 5-in-1 functionality
- 900-watt cooking output
- Air Fry capability
- 10 power levels
Cons
- Convection heating method, not microwave.
Anyone needing to prepare a variety of meals without clutter will appreciate this Black+Decker oven. It’s perfect for those who want to air fry, bake, roast, and microwave in one compact device.
4. GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection
Best for: Health-conscious users, versatile cooking.
Achieve crispier, healthier foods with the integrated air fryer function in this GE countertop microwave. Its 1050-watt convection cooking circulates air for even browning.
Beyond air frying, this 1.0 cu. ft. oven offers broiling capabilities for searing and caramelizing. With 10 power levels and 12 programs, it provides extensive cooking options.
Pros
- Integrated Air Fry function
- Convection for even cooking
- Broil option for searing
- 1.0 cu. ft. capacity
Cons
- Convection heating wattage is 1500 watts.
This GE microwave is for individuals seeking healthier cooking methods and versatile preparation. It’s ideal for those who want to air fry, bake, and broil alongside standard microwaving.
5. BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety
Best for: Budget-conscious, simple operation.
Featuring 900 watts of power, this BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave offers efficient heating for everyday meals. Its user-friendly interface includes pre-programmed buttons for common foods.
With 10 power settings and a 30-second express cooking option, meal preparation is quick and easy. The large LED display and child safety lock enhance usability and security.
Pros
- 900-watt power
- 10 power settings
- Pre-programmed buttons
- Child Safety Lock
Cons
- Push-button door release can be difficult to operate.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a straightforward choice for simple, quick cooking needs. It’s perfect for dorm rooms or small apartments where ease of use is a priority.
6. Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven, Silver
Best for: Space-limited kitchens, quiet operation.
Designed for small spaces, the Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave has a 25L capacity while maintaining an 80% quieter soft-close door. It precisely reheats, defrosts, and cooks.
This countertop microwave offers 10 power levels and convenient one-touch auto buttons for Reheat, Defrost, and Popcorn. Its compact footprint maximizes counter space.
Pros
- Quiet soft-close door
- 25L capacity
- Compact footprint
- One-touch auto buttons
Cons
- Only one specific defrost setting is listed.
For those with limited kitchen space who nevertheless demand quality, this Breville microwave is an excellent option. It is well-suited for small households that need a reliable and quiet appliance.
7. FRIGIDAIRE EMW733BLACKAMZ 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black
Best for: Single-person households, basic needs.
At 700 watts, this FRIGIDAIRE microwave provides sufficient power for reheating and simple cooking tasks. Its compact 0.7 cu. ft. capacity is ideal for small kitchens.
The digital control panel features 10 power levels and express cooking options. Two defrost timers offer personalized food warming control.
Pros
- 700-watt power output
- Compact 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
- Digital control panel
- Two defrost timers
Cons
- Smart Sensor Auto Cook is not available.
This FRIGIDAIRE microwave is perfectly suited for individuals or small spaces prioritizing basic functionality. It’s a good choice for dorms or studio apartments needing a compact cooker.
8. LG Countertop Microwave, 0.9 cu. ft., Stainless Steel, 18.75x14x10.69 Inch,
Best for: Modern kitchens, precise heating.
LG’s NeoChef microwave utilizes Smart Inverter technology for precise cooking power control and even heating. Its 1000-watt output handles various recipes with 10 adjustable power levels.
The 0.9 cu. ft. interior, combined with 7 Auto Cook options for specific foods like potato and oatmeal, offers convenient meal preparation. An EasyClean interior simplifies cleaning.
Pros
- Smart Inverter Technology
- 1000-watt power
- 0.9 cu. ft. capacity
- 7 Auto Cook options
Cons
- Glass Touch (SmoothTouch™) controller might not suit all users.
This LG countertop microwave is for those who appreciate advanced heating technology and precise control. It’s a solid choice for kitchens focused on even cooking and modern aesthetics.
9. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.9 Cubic Ft., 900-watt Capacity,
Best for: Small countertops, essential functions.
With 900 watts of power, this GE compact microwave delivers efficient cooking in a space-saving exterior. Its 0.9 cu. ft. interior is suitable for daily reheating and meal prep.
The glass turntable ensures optimum cooking by rotating food evenly. A two-step child lock adds a layer of safety, making it suitable for households with young children.
Pros
- 900-watt cooking power
- Compact 0.9 cu. ft. capacity
- Space-saving design
- Two-step child lock
Cons
- Power cord is only 39 inches long.
This GE countertop microwave is ideal for kitchens where every inch counts. It offers essential microwaving functions without taking up excessive counter space.
10. FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black
Best for: Budget small spaces, everyday reheating.
This FRIGIDAIRE 0.7 cu. ft. microwave, with 700 watts of cooking power, is designed for dorm rooms, apartments, or workplaces. Its compact size makes it an easy fit.
The digital control panel offers convenient options including express cooking and 10 power levels. Two defrost timers allow for customized thawing and warming.
Pros
- Compact 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 700-watt power
- Digital control panel
- 10 power levels
Cons
- Manual control type listed.
A practical selection for individuals in small living or working spaces, this FRIGIDAIRE microwave prioritizes efficiency and convenience. It’s well-suited for routine reheating tasks.
Beyond Watts: The Real Space Constraint
When evaluating the best space saver microwave, the critical differentiator isn’t the wattage, but the exterior-to-interior volume ratio coupled with interface efficiency. Chasing higher wattage in a compact unit often comes at the expense of usable interior space or adds unnecessary external bulk with advanced features no one actually uses in a small appliance context. A 0.7 Cu Ft FRIGIDAIRE EMW733BLACKAMZ or FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK offers a straightforward 700-watt cooking experience, but its primary virtue is its truly compact footprint, allowing it to be placed virtually anywhere without creating a visual or physical impediment.
This is a deliberate engineering choice for maximum space saving, not for cooking prowess.
Contrast this with a model like the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS, which boasts a 1.2 Cu Ft capacity and 1000 watts of power. While attractive for its cooking output, its external dimensions – 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches – demand a significant counter footprint, negating the core purpose of seeking a space saver microwave for many users. The larger interior, while accommodating a 12.4-inch turntable, inevitably requires a larger appliance.
The mistake many make is assuming that a compact microwave from a major brand will seamlessly fit into tight quarters, overlooking the precise external dimensions that dictate whether it will truly save space in their specific environment.
The inclusion of multi-functionality, as seen in the BLACK+DECKER 5-in-1 Microwave Oven with Air Fry, Combi, Bake, Roast, and the GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection, also complicates the space-saving equation. These units offer versatility but frequently require additional clearance for ventilation or feature bulkier control panels and internal components. The intended user of a space-saving appliance likely prioritizes simplicity and minimal footprint over the ability to air fry.
While features like the Two-Step Child Lock on the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) and GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.9 Cubic Ft., are important safety considerations, they rarely add to the appliance’s external volume in a detrimental way.
Ultimately, if your primary concern is maximizing usable space while still having a functional appliance, focus on units with the smallest external footprint and a straightforward digital interface, like the LG Countertop Microwave or the FRIGIDAIRE models. The Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven, Silver, with its 25L footprint, stands at a curious middle ground, attempting to balance compactness with some advanced features, but it’s the unadorned, smaller-capacity units that truly deliver on the promise of a space saver microwave.
What to Look for in a Space Saver Microwave
Compact dimensions capacity
When prioritizing compact dimensions for your space-saver microwave, focus on external measurements. Models measuring under 18 inches wide and 15 inches deep offer excellent flexibility for tight kitchens. Internally, a capacity between 0.7 and 1.0 cubic feet strikes the best balance for heating individual meals without consuming excessive cabinet space.
Look for a low overall height to fit under cabinets. A smaller base footprint is paramount for those with extremely limited counter real estate.
Choose models with these precise physical constraints to maximize your usable kitchen area.
Essential features for small spaces
Essential features for small spaces revolve around smart design that minimizes intrusion. Opt for microwaves with slim or recessed door handles; these lie flush against the unit, preventing them from snagging or obstructing narrow pathways, a common issue in kitchenette environments. Reversible door hinges are critical for placement flexibility, allowing you to adapt the microwave’s opening side to your specific cabinet layouts or wall adjacent limitations.
Seeking out models with integrated ventilation systems means less need for trailing clearances, further enhancing their suitability for confined quarters. Prioritize these built-in space-saving attributes for seamless integration.
Power and performance
For an effective space-saver microwave, target a wattage between 700W and 1000W. This range delivers sufficient power for everyday reheating and cooking needs without being overly demanding on your electrical circuits. While a removable turntable is standard for easy cleaning, ensure its size accommodates a typical dinner plate without being excessively large.
Preset cooking programs add significant convenience for frequent tasks like popcorn or defrosting, streamlining your cooking process. A microwave with these power and performance specifications ensures efficient and user-friendly operation within its compact form.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you need a microwave primarily for basic reheating and defrosting in a small space, look for a compact model with a 0.7-0.9 cu. ft. capacity and simple digital controls.
- If you want to expand your cooking capabilities with a versatile appliance, choose a microwave with air fry, convection, or bake functions.
- If safety is a top priority, especially with young children, opt for a microwave featuring a two-step child lock mechanism.
- If you frequently prepare specific items or need quick cooking, select a microwave with pre-programmed settings for common foods and express cooking options.
Quick Best Space Saver Microwave Buying Checklist
- Measure Your Space Accurately measure the intended area for the microwave, including height, width, and depth.
- Check External Dimensions Prioritize models with footprints under 18 inches wide and 15 inches deep.
- Consider Internal Capacity Opt for 0.7 to 1.0 cubic feet to balance size with functionality.
- Evaluate Door Swing/Handle Clearance Ensure the door opens fully without obstruction and handles don’t protrude excessively.
- Look for Slim or Recessed Features These design elements maximize usable space in tight kitchens.
- Verify Wattage and Presets Aim for 700-1000W and useful one-touch cooking options for convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Minimum Countertop Space Required For A Space Saver Microwave?
The minimum countertop space for a space saver microwave typically involves dimensions under 18 inches wide and 15 inches deep. This allows it to fit comfortably on most compact counters without overwhelming the area. Always double-check specific model measurements before purchasing.
Can A Compact Microwave Still Heat A Standard Dinner Plate?
Yes, most compact microwaves designed for space-saving can still accommodate a standard dinner plate. Look for models with an internal capacity of at least 0.7 cubic feet and a turntable diameter suitable for your plates. This ensures practicality despite the smaller external size.
Are There Any Special Ventilation Requirements For Space Saver Microwaves?
While space saver microwaves are designed for efficiency, check for integrated ventilation or specific clearance needs. Some models require a few inches of space around them for airflow, particularly at the back and top. Reviewing the user manual will provide exact details.
What Wattage Is Sufficient For A Space Saver Microwave?
A wattage between 700 and 1000 watts is generally sufficient for a space saver microwave’s intended use. This range offers adequate power for reheating leftovers, cooking small meals, and defrosting efficiently. Higher wattage isn’t always necessary for basic functions in compact models.
Do Space Saver Microwaves Often Have Removable Turntables?
Many space saver microwaves feature removable turntables, which can be convenient for cleaning or accommodating slightly larger dishes. If you prefer the flexibility, specifically look for models that highlight this feature and its ease of removal and reinstallation.
Final Words
Choosing the best space saver microwave is an excellent way to introduce full-sized convenience into compact kitchens. These efficient units offer essential cooking functions without sacrificing valuable counter space. Invest in a compact model today to maximize your kitchen’s functionality and enjoy hassle-free meal preparation.