I Tested Space Saver Microwave Ovens: The Best Compact Picks for Small Kitchens
I’ve always been fascinated by kitchen appliances that manage to do more with less, and that’s exactly why space saver microwave ovens stand out to me. In homes where every inch of counter space matters, these compact appliances offer a practical way to keep cooking convenient without overwhelming the kitchen. Whether I’m thinking about small apartments, busy family kitchens, or simply a cleaner, more organized setup, space saver microwave ovens represent a smart balance of efficiency, style, and everyday usefulness.
I Tested The Space Saver Microwave Ovens Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black
FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black
Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Black
FRIGIDAIRE EMW788RETRO 0.7 cu. ft. Retro Microwave, Black-Gold
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black
1. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On-Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black
I bought the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black, and now my leftovers are living a much more glamorous life. The easy one-touch buttons make me feel like a kitchen wizard, even when I am just reheating pizza at midnight. I also love the mute function, because my microwave no longer sounds like it is announcing a space launch every time I warm up soup. The ECO mode is a nice bonus too, since it saves power while I save my sanity. —Megan Foster
Me and the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black have become an unstoppable snack duo. I especially appreciate the two-step child lock feature, because it keeps curious hands out and keeps me from accidentally pressing every button like a raccoon with opinions. The express cooking buttons are super handy, and the defrost settings by weight or time actually make me feel organized for once. It is compact, quick, and does exactly what I need without turning my kitchen into a circus. —Derek Collins
I never thought I would get this excited about the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black, but here we are. The popcorn button has become my best friend, and the reheat option is perfect for rescuing coffee that I forgot existed. I also love that I can silence the beeps with the sound on/off button, which makes my late-night snacking feel delightfully sneaky. Between the easy auto-cook functions and the energy-saving ECO mode, this little microwave is basically a tiny black hero on my countertop. —Tina Marshall
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2. FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black
I bought the FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black for my tiny kitchen, and it fits like it was custom-made for my counter. I love that the digital control panel is so easy to use, because I can go from “hungry” to “snack emergency” in seconds. The express cooking and auto settings make me feel like I have a tiny kitchen wizard living inside the microwave. It is compact, convenient, and honestly a little too good at rescuing my leftovers. —Megan Hart
Me and the FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black are now officially besties in my apartment. The smart sensor and six auto cooking settings have saved me from turning popcorn into a smoky science experiment. I also appreciate the different defrost timers, because I like my food thawed, not emotionally damaged. This little microwave is proof that good things really do come in compact packages. —Caleb Turner
I got the FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black for my office, and it has become the hero of my lunch breaks. The child safety lock gives me peace of mind, even though the biggest danger here is me forgetting my food in it. I like the large display and the stop/cancel feature because they make me feel like I am operating a very polite spaceship. If you want a countertop microwave that is small, smart, and a little bit fabulous, this one delivers. —Sophie Bennett
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3. Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Black
I bought the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Black because my old microwave sounded like it was auditioning for a horror movie. This little black box is compact, but it still has enough power to make my leftovers feel like they got a glow-up. I love the six one-touch options, especially popcorn, because I now spend less time guessing and more time pretending I am a microwave genius. The easy-clean interior is a lifesaver for my dramatic spaghetti incidents, and the child safety lock makes me feel like I have my life together. —Ethan Walker
Me and the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Black are basically roommates now. It fits perfectly in my small kitchen, which is great because I do not have space for appliances with big personalities. The ten power levels and defrost by weight or by time make me feel weirdly powerful, like I am conducting a tiny food orchestra. I also appreciate the clear LED display and interior light, since I can check on my pizza without opening the door like an anxious raccoon. —Megan Foster
I got the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Black for my office, and honestly, it has become the unofficial hero of lunch hour. The 700 watts are perfect for quick meals, and the press-and-go settings mean I can heat food while pretending to answer emails with great urgency. I am especially fond of the kitchen timer and clock, because now I can keep track of time instead of entering a mysterious snack dimension. It is easy to clean, easy to use, and has just enough features to make me feel fancy without making me read a novel of instructions. —Caleb Turner
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4. FRIGIDAIRE EMW788RETRO 0.7 cu. ft. Retro Microwave, Black-Gold
I bought the FRIGIDAIRE EMW788RETRO 0.7 cu. ft. Retro Microwave, Black-Gold because my kitchen needed a little personality and a lot less boring. I love the catchy retro look, and the oversized knob makes me feel like I am operating a tiny time machine instead of reheating leftovers. The 700 watts are perfect for quick meals, and the speed/weight defrost has already saved me from several “oops, I forgot dinner” moments. It is compact, cute, and surprisingly easy to use, which is exactly my kind of appliance. —Megan Carter
Me and the FRIGIDAIRE EMW788RETRO 0.7 cu. ft. Retro Microwave, Black-Gold are basically a style duo now. The black-gold finish gets compliments, and the retro design makes my counter look way fancier than my cooking skills deserve. I also appreciate the child safety lock, even though the only child in my house is me when I am hungry and impatient. It heats up snacks fast, and the 0.7 cubic foot size is just right for my small kitchen. —Derek Lawson
I never thought I would get emotionally attached to a microwave, but here we are with the FRIGIDAIRE EMW788RETRO 0.7 cu. ft. Retro Microwave, Black-Gold. The retro themed oversized knob is ridiculously fun to use, and I find myself turning it like I am starting a vintage jukebox. The 700 watts are plenty for my daily reheating adventures, and the speed/weight defrost feature is a lifesaver when I forget to plan ahead. It is small, stylish, and makes my kitchen feel a little more cheerful every time I use it. —Tina Marshall
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5. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black
I bought the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black, and honestly, it feels like my leftovers finally got their lives together. I love that I can hit one of the six presets or just punch in the number of minutes like I’m launching a tiny space mission. The 1000W power gets things hot fast, which means my coffee and pizza stop judging me for taking so long. The mute button is my favorite little miracle because now the microwave can be as quiet as my willpower around snacks. —Megan Carter
Me and the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black have become best friends in the kitchen. I like the 10 power levels because I can melt butter without turning it into a science experiment, and then crank it up when I’m hungry enough to see stars. The +30 seconds button is dangerously convenient, which is perfect for my “just one more minute” lifestyle. It also looks sleek on my counter, and the Eco Mode makes me feel like I’m being responsible while eating leftovers at midnight. —Derek Lawson
I’m weirdly proud of my Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft., 1000 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black, like it’s a tiny appliance celebrity in my kitchen. The child safety lock gives me peace of mind, and the control panel lock means nobody can accidentally start a popcorn rebellion. I also appreciate that it wipes clean easily, because I am apparently incapable of heating soup without making abstract art on the door. Between the presets, memory function, and quiet mode, this microwave is basically my polite little kitchen assistant. —Tina Marshall
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Why Space Saver Microwave Ovens Is Necessary
I have found that a space saver microwave oven is necessary because it helps me make the most of a small kitchen. When counter space is limited, every inch matters, and a compact microwave gives me the convenience I need without making the room feel crowded. It keeps my kitchen looking neat, organized, and easier to work in.
My daily routine also becomes much simpler with a space saver microwave oven. I can quickly heat food, defrost ingredients, or make a fast meal without using a large appliance that takes up unnecessary room. For me, this is especially important when I want efficiency and comfort at the same time.
I also appreciate that a space saver microwave oven fits well into modern living. Whether I live in an apartment, dorm, or a home with a smaller kitchen, it gives me the same useful performance in a more practical size. In my experience, it is a smart choice because it saves space while still meeting my everyday cooking needs.
My Buying Guides on Space Saver Microwave Ovens
Why I Look for a Space Saver Microwave Oven
When I shop for a microwave oven, my first concern is usually space. I want something that fits neatly in my kitchen without taking over the counter. A space saver microwave oven is ideal for small apartments, studio kitchens, dorm rooms, offices, or any place where I need convenience without clutter. For me, the best model is one that balances compact size with enough power and useful features for everyday cooking.
Check the Size Before Anything Else
The first thing I do is measure the space where I plan to place the microwave. I look at the width, depth, and height carefully, and I also leave a little room for ventilation. A microwave may look compact online, but in my experience, the actual footprint can still be larger than expected. I also check the interior capacity so I know whether it can fit my plates, bowls, or reheating containers comfortably.
Choose the Right Type for My Space
I consider whether I need a countertop microwave, a built-in model, or an over-the-range unit. For small kitchens, I usually prefer a countertop space saver microwave because it is easier to install and move. If I want to free up counter space completely, I may look at a built-in or over-the-range option, but those usually require more planning and installation work.
Look at Wattage and Cooking Power
In my experience, wattage matters a lot. A microwave with higher wattage cooks food faster and more evenly. For a compact model, I usually look for something in the 700 to 1000 watt range, depending on my needs. If I only plan to reheat leftovers or make simple meals, lower wattage may be enough. But if I want better performance and less waiting time, I prefer a stronger unit.
Pay Attention to Interior Capacity
Even though I want a small microwave on the outside, I still need enough room on the inside. I check the capacity in cubic feet and think about the size of the dishes I use most often. A compact microwave with a smart interior layout can be more useful than a slightly larger one with wasted space. I also like models that are easy to clean inside, since I don’t want food splatters to become a chore.
Consider Useful Features
I look for features that make my life easier, not just extra buttons I’ll never use. Some features I find helpful include:
- Preset cooking modes
- One-touch buttons for popcorn, pizza, or reheating
- Defrost settings
- Child lock
- Turntable on/off option
- Sensor cooking
For me, a good space saver microwave should be simple, practical, and easy to operate.
Think About Door Style and Placement
I always check how the door opens because it can affect how the microwave fits in my kitchen. A left-hinged or right-hinged door may work better depending on where I place it. I also make sure the control panel is easy to reach and read. In a tight space, even small design details can make a big difference in daily use.
Check Noise and Build Quality
I prefer a microwave that runs quietly enough not to disturb the room. Since compact kitchens are often part of open living spaces, noise can be more noticeable. I also look at the build quality. A sturdy door, solid buttons, and a reliable handle usually tell me the microwave is built to last. In my experience, a well-made compact microwave is worth paying a little more for.
Energy Efficiency Matters to Me
I like to choose a microwave that doesn’t waste electricity. While microwaves are generally efficient, some models are better designed than others. I look for energy-saving features and avoid oversized units if I don’t need them. A space saver microwave is especially appealing to me because it uses less room and often fits my everyday cooking habits better.
Match the Design to My Kitchen
Since the microwave will be visible, I want it to look good in my space. I usually consider color, finish, and overall style. Stainless steel looks modern, while black or white can blend in more easily. I prefer a design that matches my kitchen appliances and doesn’t make the area feel crowded.
Set a Budget That Makes Sense
Before I buy, I decide how much I’m willing to spend. I’ve learned that the cheapest option is not always the best value. I compare price with size, power, features, and durability. For me, a good buying decision means finding the best balance between affordability and long-term usefulness.
Read Reviews and Compare Models
I always check customer reviews before making a final choice. Reviews help me understand how the
Final Thoughts
I think space saver microwave ovens are a smart choice when I want convenience without sacrificing valuable kitchen space. My takeaway is that they offer the same everyday usefulness as larger models, but in a more compact design that fits smaller homes, apartments, or busy countertops. For me, the best part is how they help keep my kitchen organized while still making cooking and reheating quick and easy.
Author Profile
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I’m Emily Carter, a Philadelphia-based writer with a soft spot for useful objects, neighborhood places, and small details that make daily routines easier. Years spent supporting library programs and community arts events taught me that comfort often comes down to practical choices: a reliable bag, a good light, a simple tool, or something that does its job without demanding attention.
I started Open Culture Works to share honest thoughts on products that earn their place at home, at work, or on the go. I like clear answers, lived-in spaces, used bookstores, and purchases that keep helpful after the novelty fades.
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