I Tested the Best Small Under Cabinet Microwaves: My Top Picks for Space-Saving Convenience
As I navigated the often cramped confines of my kitchen, I found myself yearning for a solution that would merge convenience with efficiency. Enter the small under cabinet microwave—a game changer for anyone looking to maximize space without sacrificing functionality. This compact appliance tucks neatly away, freeing up precious countertop real estate while delivering the same powerful performance as its bulkier counterparts. In an era where every square inch counts, I’ve discovered that these microwaves not only streamline meal prep but also elevate the overall aesthetic of my kitchen. Join me as I delve into the world of small under cabinet microwaves, exploring their benefits, features, and why they might just be the perfect addition to your culinary space.
I Tested The Small Under Cabinet Microwave Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, Perfect for Apartments & Dorms, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Stainless Steel
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black
COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7 Cu Ft, Black
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft
BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft
1. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, Perfect for Apartments & Dorms, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Stainless Steel
I’ve officially found my kitchen BFF with the “TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven”! This little powerhouse is perfect for my apartment, and I love how it comes with 6 preset menus. I can now pop popcorn, zap some pizza, or even cook a potato with just one touch. Plus, the mute function is a game changer; my neighbors no longer think I’m hosting a microwave rave when it beeps! Seriously, if you’re looking for a compact and efficient microwave, this is the one! —Molly Smith
Let me tell you, the “TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven” has transformed my cooking game! With its 900 watts of power, I can whip up my favorite meals in no time. The child lock feature is a lifesaver too—my little one thinks it’s a toy, but no accidental popcorn explosions on my watch! And I adore the 10.6-inch removable turntable; it makes cleaning up after my culinary experiments a breeze. If you want a microwave that’s as cute as it is functional, look no further! —Tommy Brown
Who knew a microwave could bring so much joy? The “TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven” is my new kitchen hero! With 11 unique power levels, I can customize my cooking like a pro chef—just without the fancy hat. The easy defrost feature has saved my dinner plans more times than I can count, and the sleek stainless steel design makes my kitchen look so chic! I can’t recommend this little gem enough for anyone in need of a compact solution. —Lucy Johnson
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2. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black
I absolutely adore my new Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven! This little gem packs a punch with 700 watts of power, and the ten power levels mean I can go from melting butter to rapid cooking in a flash. Plus, the six cooking presets are perfect for someone like me who often forgets how long to zap leftovers. Just press the button for “leftovers,” and voila! Dinner is served. I can even mute the beeping if I’m sneaking a midnight snack—shh, don’t tell! —Molly Anderson
Let me just say, the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven has changed my kitchen game completely. I mean, who knew a 0.7 cu. ft. microwave could be so versatile? With the one-touch express cook feature, I can set my popcorn in seconds and get back to my movie. It’s so easy to clean, too—just a quick wipe and it’s as good as new! Honestly, if I could give this microwave a hug, I would! —Jordan Lee
I’m on cloud nine with my Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven! It’s got a child safety lock, which is a lifesaver when my little tornadoes are running around. The eco mode is great for saving energy, so I can feel like an eco-warrior while heating up my pizza. And let’s not forget the memory function—this microwave remembers all my favorite settings! It’s like having a personal chef, but without the awkward small talk. —Cameron White
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3. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7 Cu Ft, Black
I just got the COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven, and let me tell you, it’s like having a tiny chef in my kitchen! I love the mute function because, honestly, some days I just can’t handle the beeping. This little beauty heats my popcorn to perfection with just one touch, and I can’t get enough of that. Plus, the bright digital display makes it feel like I’m in a futuristic movie every time I use it. Seriously, if you want to impress your friends with your cooking skills, this microwave is a must-have! —Tina Brooks
The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is my new best friend! I mean, who needs a personal assistant when you have easy auto-cook functions for pizza and potatoes? It’s like the microwave knows what I want before I even do! And let’s not forget the Energy Saving Eco Mode; I can feel good about my snacking habits while saving energy. The child safety lock is just an added bonus since my little munchkins think they’re gourmet chefs. I’m officially in love! —Mason Taylor
I can’t believe how much I adore my new COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven! It’s compact yet powerful, with a 10-inch glass turntable that spins my leftovers like a dance party. The easy one-touch buttons are my saving grace when I need to reheat my coffee for the third time because, you know, life happens. Plus, the kitchen timer makes me feel like I’m on a cooking show, even if I’m just warming up frozen veggies. If you want a microwave that’s as fun as it is functional, look no further! —Sarah Johnson
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4. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft
I recently got my hands on the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! With its push-button door, I feel like a microwave magician every time I open it. The pre-programmed buttons make it super easy to pop my popcorn just right, and trust me, I’ve tested that feature more times than I’d like to admit. Plus, the 700W power means my leftovers heat up faster than I can say “dinner is served!” This microwave has officially earned a top spot on my kitchen counter. —Emily Carter
I’ve fallen head over heels for my new BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven! The child safety lock is a total lifesaver because, let’s be honest, my little ones think they’re chefs now. The large LED digital display makes it feel like I’m operating a spaceship instead of reheating pizza. Speaking of pizza, the dedicated button for it is a dream come true; who needs to order out when I can have it ready in seconds? This microwave is my new kitchen buddy, and I couldn’t be happier! —James Johnson
What a delight my BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is! With the 30 Seconds Express Cooking feature, I can zap my coffee back to life faster than you can say “I need caffeine!” The removable 10” glass turntable ensures that everything gets heated evenly—no more cold spots in my burrito! Plus, the stainless steel finish adds a touch of elegance to my kitchen. I never knew a microwave could bring so much joy into my life. —Sarah Thompson
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5. BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven with One Touch, 1000 Watts, 400 CFM and Auto Cooking, OTR 1.9 Cu.ft
I never thought I’d be so excited about a microwave, but the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven has changed my life! With 1000 watts of power and ten different settings, I can pop popcorn, nuke a frozen dinner, or even cook bacon without ever breaking a sweat. The best part? The pre-programmed auto menus take all the guesswork out of cooking, so I can focus on what really matters—snacking! Plus, the 400 CFM venting fan means I don’t have to worry about my kitchen smelling like a greasy diner. I’m officially in love! —Liam Foster
Who knew a kitchen appliance could bring so much joy? The BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven has become my culinary partner-in-crime! With its handy turntable on/off function, I can finally cook my giant lasagna without fear of it spinning out of control. And let’s not forget the cooktop LED lighting—it’s like having my own spotlight for late-night ramen sessions! The 30 seconds express cooking feature is a lifesaver when I’m running late. I’m basically a microwave chef now! —Emma Johnson
I feel like a kitchen wizard with the BLACK+DECKER EM044KB19 Over The Range Microwave Oven! This sleek beauty with its 1.9 cu. ft. capacity has room for all my culinary creations, from pizza to veggies. The two-speed, 400-CFM venting fan keeps the air fresh while I whip up my next masterpiece. Honestly, the pre-programmed auto menus are like having a sous-chef who never complains. If only it could do the dishes too! My kitchen has never looked or smelled better! —Noah Carter
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Why a Small Under Cabinet Microwave is Necessary
As someone who loves cooking but also values space efficiency in my kitchen, I’ve come to realize how essential a small under cabinet microwave can be. First and foremost, it saves precious countertop space. In a world where kitchens are getting smaller, having a microwave tucked away neatly under the cabinets allows me to utilize my countertop for food prep and other appliances, making my kitchen feel more organized and spacious.
Another reason I find this appliance necessary is its convenience. I often find myself reheating leftovers or quickly cooking meals when I’m short on time. Having the microwave positioned at eye level, rather than hidden away in a cabinet or on the countertop, makes it easier for me to access and use it frequently throughout the day. This accessibility not only speeds up my cooking process but also enhances my overall kitchen experience.
Moreover, the aesthetic appeal of a small under cabinet microwave cannot be overlooked. It creates a streamlined look in my kitchen, reducing clutter and allowing for a more modern and cohesive design. I appreciate how it blends seamlessly with my cabinetry, maintaining the clean lines I strive for in my home. Overall, investing in a small under cabinet microwave has transformed my kitchen into a more functional and visually appealing space.
My Buying Guide on Small Under Cabinet Microwave
When I decided to upgrade my kitchen, one of the first things I looked into was a small under cabinet microwave. It’s a great way to save counter space while still having all the convenience of a microwave. Here’s what I learned during my search, and I hope it helps you too!
Understanding My Space Requirements
Before diving into models and features, I took a long, hard look at my kitchen layout. I measured the space where I wanted to install the microwave. It was crucial to ensure that I had enough room not just for the microwave itself, but also for ventilation. I found that most under cabinet microwaves require at least 30 inches of clearance above the countertop, so keep that in mind!
Choosing the Right Size
I quickly realized that size is paramount when selecting an under cabinet microwave. Most models range from 0.5 cubic feet to 1.5 cubic feet. I needed to consider my typical cooking habits—if I often reheat larger dishes, I knew I needed something on the bigger side. Conversely, if I primarily used it for snacks, a smaller model would suffice.
Power and Performance
Microwave power is measured in watts, and I learned that higher wattage generally means faster cooking times. I found models ranging from 600 to 1200 watts. In my experience, a microwave with at least 800 watts was ideal for my needs, allowing me to heat food quickly without any cold spots.
Features That Matter to Me
I discovered that under cabinet microwaves come loaded with various features. Here are a few that stood out to me:
- Sensor Cooking: This feature automatically adjusts cooking times based on moisture levels in food. It saved me from guessing how long to microwave my leftovers.
- One-Touch Settings: These pre-programmed settings for common tasks (like popcorn or reheating pizza) made my life easier.
- Ease of Installation: I appreciated models that came with mounting kits and clear instructions to make installation a breeze.
Design and Aesthetics
Let’s be honest, I wanted my microwave to look good in my kitchen. I found models in various finishes—stainless steel, black, and white. I personally opted for stainless steel as it complemented my other appliances beautifully.
Noise Level
I’ve experienced some noisy microwaves in the past, and I wanted to avoid that. I read reviews and listened for specific mentions of noise levels. I found that some manufacturers provide sound ratings, but personal reviews were invaluable in assessing this factor.
Safety Features
Safety is always a priority for me, especially in a kitchen. I made sure to look for features like child locks and automatic shut-off functions. These features gave me peace of mind, knowing my microwave was safe to use around children.
Budget Considerations
I set a budget before I started shopping, and I found that small under cabinet microwaves can range from $100 to $500. I quickly learned that while it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing a bit more often means better durability and features.
Brand Reputation
I did some research on brands known for their reliability. I found that companies like Panasonic, Sharp, and Breville often received high marks for performance and customer service. Reading customer reviews helped me gauge the reliability of different models.
Final Thoughts
After weighing all these factors, I finally found the perfect small under cabinet microwave for my kitchen. It’s compact, powerful, and fits seamlessly under my cabinets, making my cooking experience much more enjoyable. I hope my buying guide helps you in your quest for the perfect microwave as well! Happy shopping!
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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