Panasonic
Microwave Oven- Overall Rating
- Sound on/off function
0.9 cu. ft. / 900 watts capacity
10 power settings
Inverter technology with turbo defrost
Smart cooking settings with genius sensor
BLACK+DECKER
Mini Microwave- Overall Rating
- 10 power settings
Push button door
Child-safety lock
Large LED digital display
UL approved
COMFEE
Microwave Oven- Overall Rating
- Sound on/off function
Easy auto-cook function
Child-safety lock
Easy auto-cook functions
Bright digital display
Introduction
A mini microwave can prove to be a beneficial device in specific situations. If you have limited space in your kitchen, a mini microwave or under cabinet microwave can do your job instead of a full-size microwave. Also, the smallest microwave can be an important asset in an office setup, dorm room, or any temporary living space. If you have space constraints, it is best to buy a compact microwave.
It can be a companion when you travel. Compared to conventional cooking, it can provide precision in your cooking. They come with a bunch of adjustable and pre-programmed functions. This way you don’t have to face issues like overcooking or undercooking. The best part is that these functions can be activated with a single touch of a button. There are a number of small microwaves available for you to choose from.
Also, there are many advantages of a compact microwave oven like safety features, ergonomic features, and many provisions for added convenience. Below is a detailed review and features of the most popular brands of mini microwaves. You can find the smallest microwave oven to under the cabinet microwaves. Small built in microwaves are perfect for smaller spaces. It can be a helpful guide to learn all you want to know about mini microwaves. This will be helpful to make your pick. The links provided with each item can take you to the corresponding Amazon page for the prices and purchase information.
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Overview Comparison Table for the Best 10 Mini Microwave
| Sl No | Mini Microwave | Image | Features | Ratings | Product URL |
| 1. | BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven |  | • Child-safety lock • Push button door • 10 power settings |  |  |
| 2. | Panasonic Microwave Oven |  | • Sound on/off function • 0.9 cu. ft. / 900 watts capacity • 10 power settings | | |
| 3. | COMFEE Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off and ECO Mode |  | • Sound on/off function • Easy auto-cook functions • Child-safety lock |  | |
| 4. | Daewoo Retro Countertop Microwave Oven |  | • Conclave Reflex System (CRS) • Recessed turn-table • 5 auto-cook menus |  | |
| 5. | RecPro RV Microwave Microwave with Trim Kit |  | • 0.9 cu. ft. / 900 watts capacity • Exclusive design for RVs • Trim kit included |  | |
| 6. | Danby 0.7 cu. ft. Microwave Oven |  | • Cook by weight feature • 2 way defrost • One-touch cooking | | |
| 7. | Commercial Chef Microwave with Stainless Steel Trim |  | • 10 cooking power levels • 6 quick cook settings • Child-lock feature | | |
| 8. | Cuisinart Stainless Steel Microwave Oven |  | • 11 power levels • 6 auto-cook functions • 2 defrost modes |  | |
| 9. | Whirlpool Countertop Microwave |  | • 10 variable cooking power levels • Highly compact with 0.5 cu. ft. capacity • Pocket handle door control | | |
| 10. | Nostalgia RMO7AQ Retro Microwave Oven |  | • Retro finish • 12 pre-programmed settings • Express cooking function |  | |
Editor’s Review of Top 10 Mini Microwave
[Ranking 10:] Nostalgia RMO7AQ Retrowave Mini Microwave Oven
The Nostalgia Retrowave is the perfect mini microwave for you. It sports a retro look with an aqua color and rounded corners. It has a convenient chrome finish handle to open the door.
One of its convenient features is the provision for 12 pre-programmed cooking settings for all sorts of cooking. You can use it heat food too. Make pizzas, popcorn, or vegetables are ease. You can use the multi-sequence cooking option to combine up to 4 cooking sequences in a single program. The large turn-and-push knob helps you easily choose whichever program you need. This one is available in microwave small which is the size.
The capacity and power ratings are 0.7 cu. ft. and 700 watts respectively like any typical mini microwave. It has 5 power levels. You have an easily readable four-digit LED display that operates as the digital clock and timer. It also includes a rotating carousel for even cooking of the food.
Pros
- The option for 12 cooking programs covers all your cooking and heating requirements.
- Multi-sequence cooking upto 4 cooking sequences.
- Easy to read LED digits for the digital clock, timer, and to indicate the cooking settings.
- Easy turn-and-push knob for program selection.
Cons
- May not be preferred by users who don’t want the retro look.
- It has only 5 power levels.
[Ranking 9:] Whirlpool Mini Microwave 0.5 Cu. Ft.
Whirlpool WMC20005YW is one of the mini microwaves that have comparatively a smaller width measurement. This gives you more free space on the counter-top for placing utensils. The external dimensions are 13.75” x 15.38” x 14.13”. It has a curved back design making it convenient to move and shift around small spaces. You can also use it as a corner microwave.
However, it gives a bit higher power at 750 watts compared to the typical 600 watts microwave. It has ten different power levels so that you can choose a suitable power according to your cooking needs. The interior is of 0.5 cu. ft. capacity.
It has a turn-table included. The operation is using the tap touch controls. It has a digital LED clock/timer on the control panel which is placed horizontally at the bottom. The shallow depth microwave has a pocket handle door control lock. It is available in white, black, and stainless steel shades.
Pros
- A pocket handle door control lock avoids inadvertent use of the control panel buttons.
- It has one of the least width measurements.
- It has 10 variable power levels for different cooking requirements.
- Compact size and design
Cons
- Its capacity is only 0.5 cu. ft. which is lower than a typical mini microwave.
- Weight is comparatively a bit high at 32.6 lbs.
[Ranking 8:] Cuisinart CMW-70 Stainless Steel Microwave Oven
Cuisinart is one of the famous brands in kitchen appliances. The CMW-70 from Cuisinart is a stylish, versatile, and user-friendly mini microwave for every kitchen. It has a classic design with stainless steel accents.
Easy auto-cook functions using pre-programmed settings give you the perfect performance. It has six varied configurations too. These settings can be activated with easy touchpad functions. You can use the express cook function up to 6 minutes with a simple button touch. The appliance provides easy two-stage cooking and three memory settings. Furthermore, you have the freedom to set the defrost function to operate by weight or time.
The power and capacity are 0.7 cu. ft. and 700 watts respectively as in any typical mini microwave. One special feature is that it has 11 power levels adjustable between 0% and 100%.
Pros
- It has 11 adjustable levels of power from 0% to 100%.
- Six pre-programmed auto-cook function settings.
- Easy touchpad operation.
- Express cook function for up to 6 minutes.
- Two defrosting methods available – by weight and by time.
- It provides two-stage cooking and three memory setting options.
Cons
- There is no push-release function to open the door.
- Comparatively larger size occupying more space with dimensions 19.38” x 14.25” x 11.38”.
[Ranking 7:] Commercial Chef CHM770SS Microwave
The Commercial Chef CHM770SS is another mini microwave that fits into your small kitchen. It provides 700 watts of power and a 0.7 cu. ft. interior. The design has a neat stainless steel rim along the edge.
The rv microwave ovens provide great flexibility. It has ten levels of power and six exclusive programmed settings for different cooking requirements. These functions can be activated with single touch buttons. For defrosting, you have two options, defrosting by time or by weight.
One major advantage of the appliance is that it has a child safety lock. The 9.5” turn-table is constructed with tempered glass. This smallest built in microwave features a LED display clock which can also be used as a kitchen timer.
Pros
- The child safety lock feature ensures the safety of children around the mini microwave.
- It is one of the quiet microwaves as the turntable rollers fit into a ridge.
- There are ten levels for varying the power of the device.
- Six pre-programmed cooking functions for various cooking needs.
Cons
- It has no sound on/off feature.
- There is no quick-cook button with 30-second increments.
[Ranking 6:] Danby DMW7700BLDB 0.7 Cu. Ft. Portable Mini Microwave Oven
This is the model DMW7700BLDB which is a 0.7 cu. ft. and 700-watt mini microwave oven. You can also look for higher power like 800 watt microwave. The black finish of the unit adds beauty to the kitchen setting.
With a simple touch, you can access six specialized pre-programmed configurations. You can use it for cooking, baking, or reheating too. The compact microwaves allow you to adjust the power through 10 different levels. The under cabinet mount microwave has a 3-set program option that helps you choose cooking by time, defrosting by weight or speed defrost function.
The unit with automatic light also includes a glass turntable of 9.5” diameter. The LED timer/clock is easy to program. It has a 12-month warranty for major parts. Simply type in ‘microwave smallest’ to get the best recommendation.
Pros
- It provides 10 different power levels.
- 3-set single-touch programs for cooking needs.
- Six pre-programmed cooking functions.
- 12-month warranty.
Cons
- There is no child safety lock feature in this model.
- No sound on/off feature.
[Ranking 5:] RecPro (RPM-1-BLK) RV Camper Microwave with Trim Kit, 0.9 Cu Ft
The RecPro RPM-1-BLK mini microwave is one of the best RV microwaves. It has a higher capacity and power range than the usual mini microwaves. It gives you the power of 900 watts. It provides an inner room of 0.9 cu. ft. which is higher than mini microwaves. The smallest over the range microwave can be used with your RV, fifth wheel, camper, or for any recreational space. It comes with the trim kit so that you can fix it to your RV easily.
You get 8 programmed cooking options for different purposes. There is an instant start function with each button press giving you an additional 30-second increment. You can use this camping microwave with 10 different power levels. It also has multi-section cooking besides weight and time based defrost options. There is a glass turntable that offers even cooking.
The different functions can be accessed using a touch-pad control panel. The mini microwave comes with a 4-digit LED display and child lock feature for the safety of children. Another feature is the push-release door paddle so that you don’t have to pull the door open with force. The dimensions of the unit without the backplate are 19.06″ x 14.5″ x 11.62″. These small microwave dimensions are suitable for smaller kitchens. It is a UL/CUL listed device.
Pros
- It is suitable to be used as a truck microwave.
- The door can be easily opened with a push-release paddle.
- The child safety lock feature is an advantage when you have children around.
- It offers 10 power levels and multi-section cooking options.
- For defrosting, weight and time settings are available.
Cons
- The size is big.
- No sound on/off function available.
[Ranking 4:] Daewoo KOR07R3ZEL Retro Colored Microwave Oven
The Daewoo KOR07R3ZEL mini microwave is designed with a ’80s Retro fancy appearance. It is available in a range of shades like red, mint, cream, and city blue.
It has only 5 power levels and 5 auto-cook menus. One is the Concave Reflex System (CRS) technology which combines a concave reflector with a dual-wave system. It helps the microwave heat the food evenly. Another feature of the small under cabinet microwave is the recessed turntable resting on a one-piece tray that provides ample space.
The five pre-set programs may be used for various cooking needs. A two-way defrost option is available in this shallow microwave. The power and chamber volume are 700 watts and 0.7 cu. ft. respectively. It has a ‘Zero-on’ standby mode that brings down the power wastage to one-third during standby.
Pros
- The Concave Reflex System (CRS) in this cheap small microwave helps the heat to spread evenly.
- Recessed turntable gives more convenience while placing in food and taking out.
- ‘Zero-on’ standby mode reduces electricity wastage to one-third during standby.
- It is available in 4 colors.
Cons
- It has 5 auto-cook programs while many models have 10 or more.
- Only 5 power levels.
[Ranking 3:] COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM Microwave Oven
The Comfee’ EM720CPL-PM mini microwave is a product from Comfee’, a well-known brand for small kitchen appliances. Its neat looking touchpad control panel displays one-touch functions. It is suitable in any small cooking setup at home or office.
You can use the easy single touch buttons for all functions including the auto-cook functions. It doesn’t have any rotary knobs or mechanical controls for this narrow microwave. There is also a single touch express cooking function with a duration range of 1 to 6 minutes. You can increase the time by 30-second increments. You have the option to apply the defrosting function by weight or time. The capacity of this space saver microwave under cabinet is 0.7 cu. ft. with a power of 700 watts. The small white microwave can be used at 11 different power levels. It comes with a 12.4” glass turntable which is removable.
The large LED display clock/timer can be used as a kitchen timer. The child safety lock is an advantage if you have kids around. It is one of the small microwave ovens with the option to operate silently. The ECO mode saves energy by 50% in standby mode where the LED display turns off. You also get a one-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Child lock feature for safety around children.
- There are 11 different power levels.
- It comes with a 12.4” turntable which is removable.
- Defrosting options by time and weight are possible.
- Silent operation is possible with the Sound on/off function.
Cons
- No push button to release the door lock. You have to pull with manual force.
[Ranking 2:] Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SD372S
Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SD372S is a sleek mini microwave with a stainless steel finish. The construction is thinner and allows more interior space by using less space for electronics. Hence, the usable volume is 0.8 cu. ft. At 950 watts, it also provides one of the highest levels of power. The control panel has easy one-touch button for various functions and cooking modes. It includes a pop-out rotating control knob.
Patented Inverter technology provides even cooking from edge to center and avoids overcooking. The Inverter Turbo Defrosting feature helps in a comparatively faster defrosting. Another feature of the small stainless steel microwave is the Genius sensor. It senses the kind of food and adjusts power and cooking time automatically. There are pre-programmed menu options. There is a ‘keep warm’ feature too that keeps the vegetables, soup, or gravy warm until ready to serve. You can use this mini microwave for car trips too.
The unit houses an 11.25″ turntable. Quick minute timer function and delayed start feature are some features of the 4-digit LED display timer. You also get a child safety lock feature with the unit which is highly useful when you have children around.
Pros
- It provides a larger interior of 0.8 cu. ft. and a higher power of 950 watts.
- Patented Inverter technology for even cooking.
- Faster defrosting with Inverter Turbo defrosting feature.
- Genius sensor for detecting food type and adjusting the cooking power and time.
- Child safety lock feature for the safety of children.
Cons
- It occupies a comparatively larger space with dimensions 19.18” x 14.81” x 11”.
[Ranking 1:] BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Child Safety Lock
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 mini microwave has an interior capacity is 0.7 cu. ft. and delivers a power of a maximum of 700 watts. The power range of this small size microwave can be used in 10 different power settings.
Six exclusive pre-programmed one-touch functions are available. It can be operated up to 100% power for 1 to 6 minutes by a single touch of the number button. There is also the 30-seconds express cooking function. The turntable measuring 10” in diameter can be taken out to make more space.
The small under counter microwave has a push-release door open feature so that you don’t need to apply manual force. The child safety lock is a beneficial feature. The large 4-digit LED display functions as the clock and kitchen timer. These space saving microwaves are UL-approved devices. It comes with a one-year limited warranty.
Pros
- The push-release door opening feature avoids the need to pull by force.
- Child safety lock feature for the safety of children.
- Six pre-programmed modes for exclusive cooking and heating modes.
- The portable microwave oven provides a one-year limited warranty.
Cons
- No sound mute function available.
Comprehensive Buying Guide for the Best Mini Microwave
Things to consider before buying a mini microwave
- Quality and Durability
In general, the first thing to look for when you buy the smallest microwaves is its quality and durability. The same rule goes for mini microwaves. Make sure the device is not made with cheap material. Different materials are used to construct the parts of a mini microwave. The body can be stainless steel or metallic. Look for user reviews to make sure the glass door is of good material. The turntable is usually made of glass too.
Sometimes, looks can deceive you. The appearance may be eye-catching, yet the material needs to be checked before buying. You will find a huge number of choices in miniature microwaves. Hence, check the specifications and reviews before deciding.
- Compactness
The term ‘mini’ in ‘mini microwaves’ implies that it must be compact. It must be smaller than the usual size microwave. Mini microwaves are best if you have a smaller space in the kitchen. It is also suitable to be used in other limited setups like dorm, office, etc. You may carry it along if required when you travel. Some models have curved backs so that you can use them in corners or limited spaces. Some have smaller widths (but usually a slightly larger depth) so that it suits your less wide countertop. Look for the dimensions that suit you best.
Considering the weight is also good. If it is slightly heavy, it will not move too much when you press the buttons or pull the door. However, a lighter one is better when you want to carry it with you while traveling, etc.
- Interior volume
The room inside the microwave is of importance too. When you buy a mini microwave, you compromise with the interior space too. The mini microwave brands provide you a volume of 0.7 cu. ft. usable space inside. There are also models that provide you just 0.5 cu. ft. area. Some models provide larger volumes like 0.8 or even 0.9 cu. ft. However, there could be compromises in other parameters for such models. Therefore, one needs to examine overall specifications before buying.
- Power:
Typically, a mini microwave gives you a power of 700 watts. However, there are models that give you 800 watts or even 950 watts. If you cook some delicacy that requires higher power regularly, then you have to decide accordingly.
- Power Adjustability
One important feature that most mini microwaves compete with is the adjustability of the power levels. Even when it says 700 or 800 watts, the question remains how adjustable it is. Usually, mini microwaves have a provision to adjust the power in 10 steps. In other words, you can set the power at 10 different levels from minimum to maximum. Some models provide 11 or 12 levels. And some, only 5. Based on the cooking requirements, one needs to decide which specification is suitable.
- Pre-set program options
This is another feature in any modern mini microwave. Typically, mini microwaves have different pre-set programs that can be activated with a single touch button. Make sure to check the specification to ensure that there is a pre-set one-touch function for your favorite delicacy. Also, some models provide an option for defrosting by weight as well as by time.
- Safety
Another feature to consider while purchasing a mini microwave is the safety feature. A child safety lock is one of the important safety features. If you have children around, the child safety lock can be helpful to prevent children from using it without your supervision.
- Other Convenient Features and Ergonomics
Though most of the mini microwaves have a range of common features, there are also some models that give you certain exceptional features. Concave Reflex System (CRS) is one such feature that gives you exceptionally high evenness in cooking. Inverter technology, Genius sensor, Turbo defrost, etc. are all such features not available in all models. There are various other features too, though minor, that can distinguish different brands and models of mini microwaves. Some of them are listed below.
Door opening: Some have a handle to pull open the door. Others have an easy and convenient push-release feature so that you don’t have to apply manual force.
Kitchen timer: Some mini microwaves allow the provision of using the LED display as a kitchen timer.
Sound on/off: Certain models offer a ‘Sound on/off’ button that can mute the beep sounds, etc. This feature turns the microwave into a silent device.
Multi-sequence cooking: This feature allows you to combine different cooking programs in one sequence.
Turntable: Most mini microwaves have turntables. However, some models may not have it. There is flexibility when it is removable. In some, the turntable is recessed which makes it more convenient in placing the food and taking it out.
Buttons/knobs: Most mini microwaves have a control panel with a perfectly flat surface consisting of easy touchpad buttons. However, in some models, there may be a large rotary knob too. You can choose as per your choice.
- Appearance
An attractive appearance of the mini microwave adds beauty to the kitchen. There are mini microwaves with a stainless steel finish and some with stainless steel accents. Some have square corners while others have rounded ones. Also, some models are available in different colors to suit your kitchen interior. There is a range of retro models available with colors, shape, and control panels.
- Budget
This is one major factor to take into consideration. Check the specifications of different models and choose the one that best fits your pocket. Don’t go for any exceptional feature paying more money if you don’t ever need to use it.
- Warranty
Having a reliable warranty for the item you buy gives peace of mind. Different models can have different warranty terms and duration. Check for the terms before choosing the item.
What are the main benefits of using a mini microwave?
- Saves space
A mini microwave is a perfect answer when you have limited space in your kitchen. Mini microwaves come in different dimensions and helps you adjust to your limited and confined space. You can get mini microwaves with a width as large as 17” to tiny microwave ovens.
- Precise cooking
Thanks to precise and pre-set program options, you can get the right power and heat for your favorite delicacy with a mini microwave. Usually, there are pre-set programs for pizza, popcorn, potato, vegetables, that can be activated with a single button.
- Portability
If you are someone that travels a lot, a mini microwave is an advantageous piece of equipment. You can get a portable oven or portable microwave designed to be used in a car. There are also RV-mini microwaves designed with exclusive features that can help it fit into your RV. It will be perfect for your traveling and camping needs.
- Safety
Compared to conventional cooking, the mini microwave offers certain convenient security features. The child safety lock is perhaps the most leading one. It avoids your child from using it without your supervision.
- Flexibility
Once you have a mini microwave, you gain a lot of freedom and flexibility with your cooking. You get different modes of cooking and defrosting. You get options to combine different cooking programs into a sequence and so much more.
Different types of mini microwave
- Counter-top microwave
The most common type of mini microwave is the one you use on the counter of your kitchen. It provides all the necessary functions for your home cooking.
- RV-compatible microwave
This is a special range of mini microwaves exclusively designed to be used as portable microwaves. It is the perfect choice for your traveling and camping needs. The design considerations take care of power requirements and compatibility. It usually comes with a trim kit so that it can be easily fit into the RV.
- Car microwave
Certain brands produce mini microwaves for cars. Such portable microwave for cars can be connected using a special power plug. It can fit into the cigarette socket of the car.
- Convection microwave
A convection microwave has a fan in addition that circulates the hot air. It makes cooking faster and lowers power consumption. Some have a middle rack so that you can cook two plates of food at the same time. The price of a convection microwave can be higher than the regular microwave. Even a small convection microwave oven of good quality could be a bit costlier than a regular size microwave.
- Push-release door microwave
This is not a separate type of mini microwave. However, it is also a feature that classifies the mini microwaves into two. The one with a conventional type handle for the door requires you to manually apply force and pull the door, while the other type has a push-release button at the bottom which is more ergonomic. Many users prefer the feature.
- Retro series microwave
Based on the appearance, there is a range of mini microwaves with vintage designs. They sport special retro colors, shape, etc. Some people love it compared to the ones with the modern looks. However, they have all the advanced internal features.
- Knob control microwave
The control panel of most of the mini microwaves is a smooth surface consisting of flat touchpad buttons. However, some have a knob that can be rotated and pushed to select different functions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion – Find the Best Mini Microwave
When you plan to make a purchase, it takes some effort to find out the best cheap microwaves that meet your requirements. Hence, it is good to go through trustworthy reviews before setting out to purchase one. It will show you which ones are good or bad.
Follow the below steps to find the right mini microwave for your kitchen.
- First of all, it is good to have an idea of what your requirements are. What delicacies you regularly cook, how much space your kitchen can set aside for a mini microwave must be clear.
- Look for the one that meets the power requirements based on the things you cook.
- Look for all the major cooking features and convenient functions that you need.
- Look for additional features that can come handy. Different models have a variety of features. Some may be minor and yet can be helpful to you.
- Check the dimensions of the item so that it can be accommodated in the space.
- Look for safety features. A child safety lock will be good if you have kids around.
- Give preference for reputed brands as they will assure you of maintaining a minimum quality level.
- Check for the warranty terms and conditions.
- Also, make sure that the items you choose meet your budget limits.
Hope we have given you an exhaustive information about mini microwaves. You can examine the features and specifications of every model listed. You can compare them all and arrive at the best item as per your requirements. Do not forget to click the links provided with each item to check the corresponding Amazon pages.
You may find another helpful review:
I have been very satisfied with Panasonic Microwave. Great power for the size. Extremely quiet with a door that opens smoothy. Even cooking. Nice stylish, clean look. Cheers!
I bought one BLACK + DECKER. When I pulled it out of the box I was concerned it was going to be too small but dinner plates fit just fine and so does a bottle! I’m say about 2/3 the normal size of a microwave! A little on the pricey side but it definitely looks nice so I’m not mad about it!