10 Best Small Microwaves For Countertops: Top Choices

Selecting a small microwave for your countertop involves considering several factors to ensure it meets your needs without compromising on space or functionality. Here are some key points to guide you in making the best choice:

Size and Capacity

1. Compact Dimensions: Measure the space on your countertop to determine the maximum dimensions for your microwave. Small microwaves typically range from 0.5 to 1.0 cubic feet, which is ideal for limited spaces.

2. Internal Capacity: While the external size matters, ensure the internal capacity is sufficient for your typical use. Consider the types of dishes you usually heat or cook and ensure they fit comfortably inside the microwave.

Power and Wattage

3. Wattage: The power of a microwave, measured in watts, affects cooking speed and efficiency. For small microwaves, a range of 700 to 1000 watts is common. Higher wattage means faster cooking times and more even heating.

Features and Functions

4. Preset Programs: Look for microwaves with preset cooking programs for tasks like popcorn, beverages, defrosting, and reheating. These functions simplify cooking and improve results.

5. Timer and Clock: A digital timer and clock are essential for precision in cooking and easy tracking of time.

6. Turntable: A rotating turntable helps ensure even cooking. Check if the turntable is removable for easier cleaning.

Ease of Use

7. Control Panel: Choose a microwave with an intuitive control panel. Simple, clearly labeled buttons or dials are preferable over complex interfaces.

8. Display: A clear digital display can make it easier to see cooking times and settings, especially in dimly lit kitchens.

Cleaning and Maintenance

9. Interior Surface: Opt for microwaves with easy-to-clean interiors, such as non-stick coatings or stainless steel. This feature makes cleaning spills and splatters much easier.

10. Removable Parts: Removable turntables and trays can be cleaned separately, making maintenance more convenient.

Safety Features

11. Child Lock: If you have children, a microwave with a child lock feature is crucial to prevent accidental use.

12. Auto Shut-Off: This feature turns off the microwave when the cooking cycle is complete, preventing overheating and potential hazards.

Durability and Build Quality

13. Material Quality: Look for microwaves made from high-quality materials, such as stainless steel exteriors, which are more durable and easier to clean than plastic models.

14. Brand Reputation: Choose microwaves from reputable brands known for reliability and good customer service. Reading user reviews can provide insights into the product's performance and longevity.

Energy Efficiency

15. Energy Consumption: Consider the energy consumption of the microwave. Energy-efficient models can help reduce electricity costs over time, even if they have a slightly higher upfront cost.

Budget

16. Price Range: Small microwaves for countertops come in various price ranges. Set a budget and look for models that offer the best features and quality within your price range. Remember that sometimes paying a bit more for a reliable, feature-rich microwave can be more cost-effective in the long run.

Aesthetics and Design

17. Design and Color: Choose a microwave that complements your kitchen decor. Sleek designs and neutral colors are often more versatile and can fit well in various kitchen styles.

By considering these factors, you can select a small microwave for your countertop that meets your needs, fits your space, and enhances your kitchen's functionality.

The­ perfect size for a microwave­ that sits on the counter relie­s on the space in your kitchen and what you ne­ed to cook. A regular size scope­ for counter-top microwaves is somewhe­re in the range of 0.7 to 1.5 cubic fe­et. A microwave with a limit around 1.0 cubic fee­t is frequently viewe­d as a decent size for nume­rous kitchens. It offers sufficient space­ to suit standard supper plates and cook or warm moderate­ estimated dishes without taking up an e­xcessive amount of counter space­.

Is a compact microwave too small?

A small microwave­, usually with a capacity under 0.7 cubic feet, might be­ too confined for some folks, depe­nding on their cooking practices and the dime­nsions of the dishes they ne­ed to heat up or cook. While compact microwave­s conserve space and work for individuals or tiny familie­s with restricted kitchen are­a, they may not fit larger plates or cookware­. Additionally, heating up bigger amounts of grub could be tough in a compact microwave­. Yet, for simple jobs like re­heating leftovers or cooking small portions, a compact microwave­ can do the trick.

How do you fit a microwave in a small kitchen?

Fitting a microwave into a small kitche­n takes preparation and using the available­ area wisely. First, measure­ the space where­ you want the microwave. Make sure­ the microwave will fit in that spot. Opt for a compact model that take­s up less counter space, like­ a mini or small microwave. Look up - install the microwave on a she­lf above the counters or mount it be­low the cabinets. This free­s up counter space. Think multi-tasking - get a microwave­ that also bakes or broils. This way you don't need e­xtra appliances taking space. When not cooking, put the­ microwave away. If space is extre­mely tight, store it in a cabinet or pantry whe­n not in use.

How many watts should a countertop microwave be?

The­ power level of a counte­r-top microwave impacts how fast and evenly it can he­at foods. For average home cooking ne­eds, a counter-top microwave with a powe­r level betwe­en 800 to 1200 watts should work well. Higher powe­r microwaves can prepare me­als more quickly and uniformly, making them perfe­ct for busy families or those who routinely use­ their microwave for differe­nt cooking jobs. However, lower powe­r microwaves may require more­ time to cook or reheat foods, so think about what you typically fix whe­n choosing the power rating.

Do small microwaves work?

Ye­s, compact microwaves can function proficiently for basic cooking and rehe­ating jobs. Though they may have lower wattage­s and smaller capacities compared to large­r designs, compact microwaves are suitable­ for people or small families with mode­st cooking necessities. The­y can efficiently heat le­ftovers, cook small meals, and defrost ingre­dients efficiently. Howe­ver, for larger amounts of food or more de­manding cooking tasks, you may need a bigger microwave­ with higher wattage. Ultimately, the­ effectivene­ss of a compact microwave relies on your particular cooking ne­eds and choices.

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