Low-profile, small-footprint microwaves that don't sacrifice cooking power. Ranked by wattage, size, and value.
Microwaves are the one kitchen appliance where "compact" doesn't have to mean "compromise." Modern small microwaves deliver 700–1000 watts in a footprint that fits under cabinets, on narrow counters, or in tight galley kitchens. The key is finding one that balances power, interior space, and external dimensions.
| Model | Wattage | Capacity (cu ft) | Dimensions (W×D×H) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toshiba ML-EM23P(SS) | 900W | 0.9 | 19.2 × 15.9 × 11.5" | ~$100 |
| Breville Compact Wave | 900W | 0.9 | 18.5 × 15.8 × 11.1" | ~$180 |
| GE JES1097SMSS | 900W | 0.9 | 19.0 × 14.8 × 11.5" | ~$120 |
| BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 | 700W | 0.7 | 17.3 × 13.0 × 10.2" | ~$65 |
| Toshiba ML2-EC10SA(BS) | 1,000W | 1.0 | 20.5 × 20.0 × 12.8" | ~$180 |
The Toshiba delivers flagship wattage in a compact frame. The 0.9 cubic foot interior fits a standard dinner plate with room to spare. Smart sensor reheating works well, and the mute function is a blessing in small apartments. At around $100, it's hard to find a reason not to recommend this as the default choice.
Breville's compact offering stands out on build quality and inverter technology that delivers more even heating than conventional microwaves. The soft-close door and intuitive controls feel premium. Whether the extra $80 over the Toshiba is worth it depends on how much you use your microwave.
The JES1097SMSS is the only compact microwave in its price class with Scan-to-Cook: point your phone at a package barcode and it sets time and power automatically. At 900W in a 19-inch footprint, performance matches the Toshiba and Breville, but it adds genuine smart home integration through GE's SmartHQ app with Alexa and Google Assistant support. The stainless steel finish and premium-feeling controls make it look more expensive than its ~$140 street price.
At 17.3 inches wide the EM720CB7 is the most compact microwave on this list — it fits where nothing else will. Six preset programs cover everyday reheating and snack cooking without unnecessary complexity. Don't expect sensor cooking or inverter heating at this price; this is an unashamedly basic appliance. The 700W output is the minimum we'd recommend for regular use, so expect slightly longer cook times than 900W models. Ideal for RVs, offices, dorm rooms, and galley kitchens.
The ML2-EC10SA turns a compact countertop footprint into a full cooking station with eight distinct modes: microwave, air fry, convection bake, broil, dehydrate, combination cooking, defrost, and odor removal. The 12.4-inch position-memory turntable fits a 12-inch pizza or whole chicken. An ECO mode and mute function are well-considered additions for apartment living. The black stainless finish resists fingerprints and looks sharp. At ~$180 it costs about the same as the Breville Compact Wave but does considerably more.
For a compact microwave that serves as your primary unit, aim for at least 700 watts — anything less will struggle with basic reheating. 900–1000 watts is ideal: fast enough for cooking, not just warming. Below 700 watts, you're in dorm-room territory and will be frustrated by cook times.