What Is Considered a Small Microwave?
Most small microwaves have a capacity between 0.7 and 0.9 cubic feet. These compact models are designed to fit on countertops where space is limited while still being large enough for everyday dishes, mugs and microwave-safe containers.
A small microwave is a practical choice for:
- Apartments and studio apartments
- Dorm rooms
- Offices and break rooms
- RVs and campers
- In-law suites
- Kitchenettes
- Basement bars or game rooms
While the interior capacity is measured in cubic feet, it's also worth checking the appliance's exterior dimensions to make sure it fits your available countertop space.
Why Choose a Small Microwave?
A small microwave maximizes available space without giving up the convenience of quick cooking and reheating. Many people choose a compact microwave because they're living in a small space. Others don't use a microwave often enough to dedicate valuable counter space to a larger model.
Small microwaves also offer other advantages:
- They fit more easily on countertops in compact kitchens.
- They typically cost less than larger microwave models.
- They often use less energy than higher-wattage, full-size microwaves.
- They're easier to move when reorganizing a kitchen or relocating.
For many households, a compact microwave provides enough cooking power for everyday meals, beverages and leftovers.
Shop Small Microwaves by Color
Take a cue from your other appliances to choose a microwave that complements what you have.
What to Consider When Choosing a Small Microwave
Even though they're smaller, many compact microwaves include the same convenient features found on larger models. Before choosing one, consider how you'll use it each day.
Capacity
Capacity determines how much food the microwave can hold. Most small microwaves range from 0.7 to 0.9 cubic feet, making them well suited for everyday reheating, beverages, frozen meals and snacks. If you regularly heat large casserole dishes or oversized dinner plates, a larger microwave may be a better fit.
Wattage
Microwave wattage affects cooking speed and performance. Small microwaves typically range from 700 to 900 watts. Lower-wattage models may take a little longer to cook or reheat food, while higher-wattage models generally heat food more quickly and evenly.
Convenience Cooking Controls
Preset cooking controls take the guesswork out of preparing common foods. Many microwaves include one-touch settings for popcorn, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages and defrosting. These presets can help deliver more consistent cooking results without manually entering cooking times.
Child Safety Lock
If children have access to the microwave, a child safety lock can help prevent accidental operation or a child removing hot food. This feature disables the controls until the lock is released, adding an extra layer of safety in family kitchens.
Turntable
A rotating turntable helps distribute heat more evenly throughout the cooking cycle, reducing hot and cold spots and improving overall cooking performance.
Fingerprint-Resistant Finish
If your microwave sits on the countertop, a fingerprint-resistant finish can help keep the exterior looking cleaner between wipe-downs. This feature is especially helpful with certain finishes that can show smudges easily, like stainless steel.
Speed Cook
Some microwaves include Speed Cook technology, which combines microwave energy with other cooking methods to prepare food faster than a conventional oven. Not all compact microwaves include this feature, so check product specifications if it's important to you.
Find the Right Small Microwave for Your Home
Choosing the best small microwave comes down to how you use it and the space you have available. By considering capacity, wattage and the features that matter most to you, you can find a model that fits your routine without taking over your countertop. Whether you're outfitting a new apartment, upgrading an office kitchenette or looking for a compact microwave for everyday use, Lowe's offers a wide selection of trusted brands, sizes and finishes to help you find the right fit for your home.