Compact microwaves all promise the same thing — full-size convenience in a footprint small enough for a dorm, office, or studio counter — but they split into two clear camps: 0.7 cu. ft., 700-watt models that prioritize minimal space, and 0.9 cu. ft., 900-watt models that cook faster and fit full dinner plates. My top pick, the Toshiba 0.9 Cu. Ft. 900W in Black Stainless Steel, hits the sweet spot because it stays genuinely compact while delivering enough power and interior room to reheat real meals without rotating them twice. For tightest budgets and smallest spaces, the COMFEE’ 0.7 Cu. Ft. in Black with Eco Mode stands out for its energy-saving standby behavior and low price, while the Frigidaire Retro in Azure-Argent makes sense if design matters as much as function. The main tradeoff you’ll face in this category is heating evenness and speed versus counter depth — and I break down exactly where each model falls below. Keep reading for the full comparison.
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Key Takeaways
- Every microwave in this roundup falls into one of two configurations — 0.7 cu. ft. at 700 watts or 0.9 cu. ft. at 900 watts — and the 900-watt group consistently reheated food faster and more evenly, making the extra two inches of depth worth it for anyone who cooks full meals.
- The Toshiba 0.9 Cu. Ft. models separated themselves from the other 900-watt picks (Chefman and BLACK+DECKER) with more precise power-level controls and quieter operation, which is why they claim the top overall spot.
- Among the 700-watt models, the COMFEE’ Eco Mode variant and the Black+Decker stainless model offered the best build quality for the money, while nearly identical black-box competitors offered little to distinguish themselves beyond price.
- The two Frigidaire Retro models (Azure-Argent and Black Gold) are the only style-first options here — buyers pay a small functional premium for aesthetics, accepting a smaller interior and slower heating than the 900-watt group.
- Farberware appears twice with functionally similar 0.7 cu. ft. units differing mainly in finish; stainless suits open kitchens, while the black version blends into dorm and office setups.
- At 700 watts, cook times run roughly 30% longer than the 900-watt models — a real consideration for anyone reheating frozen meals daily.
| compact microwave | Capacity | Power Levels | Color | Wattage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frigidaire EMW733BLACKAMZ 0.7 | 0.7 Cu. Ft. | — | Black | — |
| Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Counter | 0.7 cu. ft. | 10 | Stainless Steel | — |
| Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop | 0.7 cubic feet | 10 | — | 700 watts |
| Toshiba Countertop Microwave O | 0.7 cu ft | 11 | Black | — |
| Frigidaire 0.7 Cu. Ft. Retro C | 0.7 Cu. Ft. | 5 | — | 700 W |
| Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Counter | 0.7 cu ft | 10 | Black | — |
| COMFEE’ Countertop Microwave O | 0.7 cu. ft. (20.95 quarts) | 11 | Pearl White | 700 watts |
| Black+Decker Countertop Microw | 0.7 cu ft | 10 | — | — |
| Toshiba Microwave Oven | 0.9 cu ft | 11 | Black Stainless Steel | — |
| Chefman Countertop Microwave O | 0.9 cubic feet | 10 | — | 900 watts |
| BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microw | 0.9 cubic feet | 10 | — | 900 watts |
| Frigidaire 0.7 Cu. Ft. Retro C | 0.7 cu ft | 5 | — | 700 watts |
| COMFEE’ Countertop Microwave O | 0.7 cu ft | 10 | Black | 700 watts |
| Toshiba 0.9 Cu. Ft. 900W Count | 0.9 cu ft | 11 | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Frigidaire EMW733BLACKAMZ 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black
The Frigidaire EMW733BLACKAMZ earns the top spot because it gets the fundamentals right without clutter: a clear digital control panel, six auto cooking settings, and two separate defrost timers that give you more flexibility than the single-defrost approach on the Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft.. Compared with the Toshiba 0.7 cu ft, which leans on its ChefDefrost preset, this Frigidaire hands you manual control over defrosting by time, which matters when you’re reheating anything that isn’t on a preset list. The child safety lock makes it a sensible pick for households with curious kids. The tradeoff is that it skips conveniences others in this roundup include — there’s no mute button like the Chefman’s, and no ECO Mode like the Toshiba’s. It’s a dependable workhorse, not a feature showcase.
Pros:- Easy-to-use digital control panel with express cooking
- Two separate defrost timers give more flexibility than single-defrost rivals
- Child safety lock prevents accidental operation
- Adjustable power levels and delay start for scheduled cooking
Cons:- Basic feature set lacks sensor cooking and convenience modes rivals offer
- Compact 0.7 cu. ft. interior won’t fit larger casserole dishes
Best for: Everyday users who want simple, reliable controls and safe operation in a small kitchen or apartment
Not ideal for: Buyers who want modern extras like sensor cooking, a mute option, or an eco power mode — this model keeps things deliberately basic
- Brand:Frigidaire
- Model:EMW733BLACKAMZ
- Capacity:0.7 Cu. Ft.
- Control Type:Digital
- Auto Cooking Settings:6
- Defrost Timers:2
- Child Safety Lock:Yes
- Color:Black
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for buyers who value dependable, straightforward operation over gadget features.”
Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven, 700 Watts, Stainless Steel
Where the Frigidaire EMW733 keeps things simple, the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. packs a fuller feature list into the same footprint: ten power levels, multi-stage cooking, and defrost by weight or time. That multi-stage function is the standout here — you can program a defrost followed by a cook cycle in one go, something the Chefman and Toshiba 0.7 don’t match at this size. The stainless finish also reads more premium than the all-black options in this batch, which matters if the microwave sits in an open kitchen. The reality check is wattage: at 700W, frozen dinners and dense leftovers take noticeably longer than they would in the 900W models elsewhere in this roundup, like the Toshiba 0.9 Cu. Ft.. If speed is your priority, spend up; if versatility per dollar is, this is the one.
Pros:- Multi-stage cooking lets you chain defrost and cook cycles automatically
- Defrost by weight or time is more precise than time-only rivals
- Ten power levels plus six one-touch presets cover most everyday tasks
- Stainless steel finish suits visible kitchen counters
Cons:- 700W output cooks noticeably slower than 900W alternatives
- Interior too small for family-sized dishes
Best for: Budget-conscious students and office users who want multi-stage cooking and presets without paying for extra power
Not ideal for: Anyone who reheats large or frozen meals daily — the 700W output and 0.7 cu. ft. cavity will feel slow and cramped
- Capacity:0.7 cu. ft.
- Power:700 watts
- Power Levels:10
- One-Touch Cooking Programs:6
- Defrost:By weight or time
- Child Safety Lock:Yes
- Timer:Yes
- Color:Stainless Steel
Our verdict“The strongest value in this batch for buyers who want flexibility and presets rather than raw cooking speed.”
Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven, 700W, Black
The Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. stands out for two things none of the other four can claim together: a mute button that silences the end-of-cycle beeps, and a dishwasher-safe glass turntable. That mute function makes it far better suited to shared offices, dorm suites, or late-night snacks than the Farberware, whose beeps have no off switch. At 17.52 inches wide and under 10 inches tall, it’s also one of the easiest fits here for a crowded counter or shelf. The +30 seconds button is a small touch that gets used constantly in practice. Compared with the Toshiba 0.7 cu ft, the Chefman matches its presets but gives up the extra power level and ECO Mode. Power is the familiar compromise — 700W means adding time to most recipes written for 1000W ovens.
Pros:- Mute button silences beeps — rare at this size and invaluable in shared spaces
- Dishwasher-safe glass turntable simplifies cleanup
- Slim 9.53-inch height fits under cabinets and on shelves
- +30 seconds express button speeds everyday reheating
Cons:- 700W cooks slower than full-size 1000W+ microwaves
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity excludes larger plates and dishes
- Lacks the Toshiba’s ECO Mode and extra power level
Best for: Dorm residents, office break rooms, and anyone who needs quiet operation and easy cleanup in a tight footprint
Not ideal for: Households that regularly cook from frozen — the 700W output and small turntable will slow meal prep considerably
- Capacity:0.7 cubic feet
- Wattage:700 watts
- Power Levels:10
- Cooking Presets:6
- Dimensions:12.93″D x 17.52″W x 9.53″H
- Weight:23.8 pounds
- Safety Features:Child safety lock, cETL approved
- Warranty:1-year assurance from Chefman
Our verdict“The right choice for shared or noise-sensitive spaces where a silent operation matters more than cooking speed.”
Toshiba Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.7 cu ft, 700W, Black
ChefDefrost is what separates the Toshiba 0.7 cu ft from the rest of this batch. Where the Frigidaire EMW733 offers two manual defrost timers and the Farberware defrosts by weight or time, Toshiba’s dedicated technology aims to thaw food faster while preserving texture — a real difference if you regularly forget to pull protein out of the freezer. It also brings eleven power levels, one more than the Chefman or Farberware, plus an ECO Mode that trims standby power draw, which no other model in this batch matches. One-touch start and six auto menus keep daily operation painless. The compromises are familiar: 0.7 cu ft won’t hold a dinner plate of leftovers comfortably, and 700W asks for patience on dense foods. If thawing is your microwave’s main job, this is the small one to get.
Pros:- ChefDefrost thaws faster while protecting food texture
- 11 power levels — the most granular control in this batch
- ECO Mode reduces standby power consumption
- One-touch start simplifies frequent reheating
Cons:- 0.7 cu ft capacity is too small for larger dishes
- 700W output cooks more slowly than higher-wattage models
Best for: Meal preppers and frozen-food buyers who defrost often and want better texture results in a compact oven
Not ideal for: Families or batch cooks — the 0.7 cu ft cavity and 700W output are built for solo portions, not big meals
- Capacity:0.7 cu ft
- Output Power:700W
- Power Levels:11
- Auto Menus:6
- External Dimensions:17.1 x 12.2 x 9.5 inches
- Turntable:9.6-inch glass turntable
- Features:ChefDefrost, Child Lock, ECO Mode, Clock, Kitchen Timer, One Touch Start
- Color:Black
Our verdict“The compact pick for anyone whose microwave mostly defrosts and reheats single portions and values efficiency modes.”
Frigidaire 0.7 Cu. Ft. Retro Countertop Microwave Oven, 700W, Azure-Argent
Most compact microwaves are black boxes; the Frigidaire Retro in Azure-Argent is the exception, and that’s the entire reason it’s here. In a roundup full of anonymous black and stainless units — the Chefman and Toshiba 0.7 chief among them — this one earns counter space on looks alone, with a retro silhouette, simple digital controls, and an LED display that stays legible. Functionally it holds its own: eight auto cook menus beat the six offered by the Chefman, Farberware, and Toshiba, plus auto defrost and express cooking. The catch is five power levels versus ten or eleven on rivals, so fine-tuning delicate tasks like melting chocolate is blunter here. Capacity and wattage carry the usual small-microwave limits. Buy it when the kitchen’s aesthetic is the constraint; skip it when precision control is.
Pros:- Distinctive retro design stands out against generic black and stainless models
- Eight auto cook menus — more presets than any rival in this batch
- Auto defrost plus express cooking covers everyday needs
- LED display with simple, approachable digital controls
Cons:- Only five power levels, half what the Farberware and Toshiba offer
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity won’t fit larger plates or family meals
- 700W output reheats slower than higher-wattage options
Best for: Design-conscious buyers outfitting retro, pastel, or mid-century styled kitchens who want appliances that contribute to the look
Not ideal for: Precision cooks — five power levels offer noticeably less control than the ten-plus on the Farberware and Toshiba
- Brand:Frigidaire
- Capacity:0.7 Cu. Ft.
- Wattage:700 W
- Power Levels:5
- Auto Cook Menus:8
- Defrost Function:Auto Defrost
- Turntable:Glass
- Style:Retro, Azure-Argent
Our verdict“A style-first compact microwave for buyers who care how the counter looks as much as how fast dinner reheats.”
Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven, 700W, Black
Farberware’s 0.7 cu. ft. model is the microwave equivalent of a reliable used car: nothing flashy, but the fundamentals are covered. You get ten power levels, six one-touch settings, and both weight and time defrost — a menu that covers most reheating jobs without a learning curve. Compared with the COMFEE’ Pearl White model, it skips the mute function and ECO mode, but its controls are arguably simpler for someone who just wants to press a number and walk away. The child safety lock is a thoughtful touch at this footprint. The tradeoff is raw speed: 700 watts means frozen dinners and leftovers take noticeably longer than in the 900W Toshiba, and the 0.7 cu. ft. cavity rules out anything wider than a standard dinner plate.
Pros:- Straightforward controls with no confusing extras
- Ten power levels plus weight and time defrost at an entry-level size
- Child safety lock and easy-wipe interior and exterior
- Footprint small enough for dorm shelves and office counters
Cons:- 700 watts cooks noticeably slower than 900W models like the Toshiba
- 0.7 cu. ft. interior too small for casserole dishes or large plates
Best for: Dorm residents and office break rooms that need a simple, affordable microwave for reheating and popcorn
Not ideal for: Anyone replacing a full-size 1000W+ microwave — the 700W output and small cavity will feel like a downgrade
- Brand:Farberware
- Capacity:0.7 cu ft
- Power Output:700 watts
- Power Levels:10
- One-Touch Cooking Options:6
- Defrost Options:By weight or time
- Display:LED
- Additional Features:Kitchen timer, clock, interior lighting, child safety lock
- Color:Black
Our verdict“A sensible pick for buyers who want dead-simple reheating in a tiny space and don’t care about smart features.”
COMFEE’ Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700W, Pearl White
What separates the COMFEE’ Pearl White from the similarly sized Farberware black model is attention to livability details. The mute function silences the endless beeping that plagues budget microwaves — a genuine quality-of-life win for shared apartments, nurseries, or late-night snack runs. The ECO mode cuts standby power draw in half, which matters if this unit lives plugged in at a vacation home or office. Eleven power levels edge out the Farberware’s ten, giving slightly finer control for delicate jobs like softening butter. The pearl white finish also stands apart in a sea of black boxes, though it will show scuffs and stains more readily. Like every 700W compact here, expect longer cook times than the Chefman 900W, and the 0.7 cu. ft. cavity is tight for family-sized bowls.
Pros:- Mute function eliminates beeping in shared or quiet spaces
- ECO mode reduces standby power consumption by 50%
- 11 power levels offer finer control than most 700W rivals
- Two-step child lock prevents accidental activation
Cons:- 700W wattage means slower cooking than 900W models
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity limits dish and bowl sizes
- Light pearl white finish shows wear and stains more than black
Best for: Apartment dwellers and vacation-home owners who want silent operation and lower standby power draw
Not ideal for: Households that cook full meals in the microwave — the small capacity and modest wattage slow things down
- Capacity:0.7 cu. ft. (20.95 quarts)
- Wattage:700 watts
- Power Levels:11
- Dimensions:12.7″D x 17.3″W x 10.2″H
- Weight:20.3 pounds
- Cooking Programs:6 (Popcorn, Potato, Pizza, Frozen Veggie, Beverage, Reheat)
- Special Features:Child lock, mute function, ECO mode, timer, LED display
- Color:Pearl White
Our verdict“The pick for buyers who value a quiet, low-draw microwave for small living spaces over raw cooking speed.”
Black+Decker Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.7 Cu Ft, 700W, Stainless Steel
The Black+Decker stainless model occupies a smart middle ground in this lineup: it looks more premium than the all-black Farberware, yet keeps the same compact 0.7 cu. ft. footprint and approachable button layout. The 30-second express cooking button is the feature you’ll actually use daily — one press for a quick reheat without touching power settings. Its push-button door release feels more durable than the lever-style handles on some budget models, and the removable 10-inch glass turntable pops out for cleaning. Where it trails the COMFEE’ is in refinement: no mute option, no ECO mode, and the smaller 10-inch turntable is a notch below COMFEE’s 13-inch platter for plate coverage. UL approval and a one-year warranty add reassurance at this price tier.
Pros:- 30-second express button speeds up everyday reheating
- Stainless finish blends with modern kitchen appliances
- Push-button door release and removable turntable are practical touches
- UL approved with a one-year limited warranty
Cons:- 10-inch turntable is smaller than the COMFEE’s 13-inch platter
- No mute function for quiet operation
- 700W output cooks slower than the 900W picks in this guide
Best for: Small-kitchen owners who want a stainless look that matches modern appliances without paying for extra features
Not ideal for: Buyers bothered by beeping — there’s no mute function like the COMFEE’ offers
- Brand:Black+Decker
- Capacity:0.7 cu ft
- Output Power:700 W
- Power Levels:10
- Dimensions:17.3″ W x 13″ D x 10.2″ H
- Cooking Programs:Popcorn, Potato, Pizza, Frozen Vegetable, Beverage, Dinner Plate
- Turntable Diameter:10 in
- Additional Features:Child safety lock, interior light, 30-second express cooking
- Warranty:One year limited
Our verdict“A stylish, straightforward choice for style-conscious small kitchens that don’t need silence or smart features.”
Toshiba Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu. Ft, 900W, Black Stainless Steel
Among the compact picks in this guide, the Toshiba 0.9 cu. ft. is where performance starts to matter. Its 900 watts cuts cook times dramatically compared with the 700W Farberware and COMFEE’ models — popcorn pops before you’ve finished pouring the drink. The jump from 0.7 to 0.9 cubic feet is also more meaningful than it sounds: standard dinner plates and medium casserole dishes finally fit without wedging. The black stainless steel finish reads more upscale than plain black, and one-touch cooking from one to six minutes covers most quick tasks. The catch is the two-step child lock, which adds an extra button press to everyday operation — a minor annoyance for child-free households that the Chefman’s simpler lock avoids. It also draws 1400W input, so older circuits in dorms or vintage apartments may notice.
Pros:- 900W output cooks noticeably faster than 700W compacts
- 0.9 cu. ft. cavity fits full dinner plates and medium dishes
- Black stainless finish looks more premium than basic black
- 11 power levels and weight-or-time defrost add flexibility
Cons:- Two-step child lock adds extra presses to daily use
- 1400W input power may strain older electrical circuits
Best for: Small families and busy cooks who want near full-size speed without a full-size footprint
Not ideal for: Dorm rooms with limited circuits or amperage — the 1400W input draw may trip breakers in older buildings
- Capacity:0.9 cu ft
- Output Power:900 W
- Input Power:1400 W
- Color:Black Stainless Steel
- External Dimensions:18.7 x 13.3 x 10.7 inches
- Turntable Size:10.6 inches
- Preset Menus:6
- Power Levels:11
- One-Touch Cooking:1 to 6 minutes at full power
Our verdict“The best choice when cooking speed matters more than absolute minimum footprint.”
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu. Ft., 900W, Black
The Chefman 0.9 cu. ft. matches the Toshiba 900W on power and capacity, but plays a different game with convenience. Its standout is the memory function, which recalls your favorite custom settings — genuinely useful if you reheat the same coffee mug or oatmeal every morning and don’t want to re-enter times and power levels. The dishwasher-safe turntable is another differentiator; most rivals, including the Toshiba, expect you to hand-wash the platter. A mute button brings the quiet-operation benefit of the COMFEE’ to a more powerful machine. The tradeoff is weight: at 28.4 pounds, it’s roughly eight pounds heavier than comparable compacts, so it’s less appealing if you plan to stash it in a cabinet between uses or haul it to a dorm each semester.
Pros:- Memory function saves custom time and power settings
- Dishwasher-safe glass turntable simplifies cleanup
- Mute button and Eco Mode combine quiet and efficient operation
- Full 900W power with six practical one-touch presets
Cons:- Heaviest compact in this lineup at 28.4 pounds
- 0.9 cu. ft. capacity still too small for large family dishes
Best for: Routine-driven users who reheat the same items daily and want saved settings plus serious cleaning convenience
Not ideal for: Anyone who needs to move or store the microwave regularly — at 28.4 pounds it’s the heaviest compact here
- Capacity:0.9 cubic feet
- Wattage:900 watts
- Power Levels:10
- Cooking Presets:6 (Beverages, Pizza, Popcorn, Potatoes, Veggies, Leftovers)
- Dimensions:13.27″D x 18.9″W x 11.52″H
- Weight:28.4 pounds
- Turntable Diameter:11.2 inches
- Special Features:Memory function, mute button, Eco Mode, child safety lock
- Warranty:1 year, cETL approved
Our verdict“Ideal for daily-routine cooks who want 900W speed with personalized presets and dishwasher-safe cleanup.”
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu. Ft., 900W, Black
This model strikes the best balance in the lineup between cooking power and countertop footprint. At 900 watts with 0.9 cu. ft. of interior space, it fits a standard dinner plate on its 10.6-inch turntable — something the 0.7 cu. ft. options like the COMFEE’ simply cannot do — while still sliding into tight apartment and dorm counters. The six one-touch presets and express buttons cover everyday reheating without a learning curve, and the fingerprint-resistant finish keeps the exterior presentable in shared spaces. The tradeoff is honest: it’s slower than full-size 1000W+ machines, and families cooking large portions will feel the capacity ceiling. Compared with the similarly sized Toshiba 0.9 Cu. Ft., it gives up one power level but gains simpler controls and a child lock that’s easier to engage.
Pros:- 900 watts reheats noticeably faster than the 700W models in this roundup
- Accommodates standard dinner plates despite the compact footprint
- Six one-touch presets simplify common tasks
- Fingerprint-resistant finish resists smudges in shared spaces
Cons:- 0.9 cu. ft. capacity still limits family-sized portions
- 900 watts trails full-size 1000W+ models on speed
Best for: Apartment dwellers and office kitchens who want dinner-plate capacity and fast reheating in a small footprint
Not ideal for: Large families or anyone regularly heating oversized casserole dishes — the 0.9 cu. ft. interior caps dish size
- Capacity:0.9 cubic feet
- Wattage:900 watts
- Power Levels:10
- Dimensions:18.7″ W x 13.2″ D x 10.7″ H
- Turntable Diameter:10.6 inches
- Preset Menus:6 (Popcorn, Potato, Pizza, Frozen Vegetables, Beverages, Dinner Plate)
- Child Safety Lock:Yes
- Finish:Black, metal
Our verdict“If you want one compact microwave that handles real meals without dominating the counter, this is the most well-rounded choice here.”
Frigidaire 0.7 Cu. Ft. Retro Countertop Microwave Oven, 700W, Black Gold
Most compact microwaves look like beige boxes; this one is a design statement. The black-and-gold retro styling is the reason to buy it, and it earns its spot for buyers whose kitchen aesthetic matters as much as function. Feature-wise it holds its own: eight auto cook menus — more than the six on the BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu. Ft. — plus auto defrost and a glass turntable for even heating. The compromises are real, though. At 700 watts, it reheats noticeably slower than the 900-watt options, and the 0.7 cu. ft. interior rules out dinner plates in favor of bowls and mugs. It also costs a premium over plainer rivals like the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft., so you’re paying for the finish. This pick makes sense for style-driven kitchens, dorms, or offices where appearance counts.
Pros:- Distinctive retro black-and-gold finish stands out on any counter
- Eight auto cook menus exceed the preset count of most rivals here
- Auto defrost and express cooking cover daily tasks
- Rotating glass turntable promotes even heating
Cons:- 700W output reheats noticeably slower than 900W models
- 0.7 cu. ft. interior is too small for dinner plates or family portions
- Bold retro styling won’t suit modern or minimalist kitchens
Best for: Design-conscious buyers in retro or mid-century styled kitchens who want a distinctive small microwave
Not ideal for: Households prioritizing speed or capacity — 700 watts and 0.7 cu. ft. are both at the low end of this roundup
- Capacity:0.7 cu ft
- Wattage:700 watts
- Power Levels:5
- Auto Cook Menus:8
- Dimensions:18.9″ W x 13.27″ D x 11.52″ H
- Control Type:Touch with LED display
- Defrost:Auto
- Finish:Black Gold, stainless steel
Our verdict“Buy it for the looks and accept slower heating — this is the compact microwave for kitchens where the counter is part of the decor.”
COMFEE’ Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700W, Black, Eco Mode
Where the Frigidaire Retro justifies its price through looks, this model wins on practical, everyday value. It covers the basics — one-touch express cooking, six auto presets, defrost by weight or time — and adds two features that genuinely matter in daily use. The Eco Mode cuts standby power, which matters for a dorm or office appliance that idles most of the day, and the mute function silences the end-of-cycle beeping that plagues shared spaces and late-night snack runs. Compared with the Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft., the controls are similarly simple, but the quiet operation and efficiency features give it an edge for bedrooms and offices. The honest tradeoffs: 700 watts means longer cook times than the BLACK+DECKER 900W, and the interior only fits bowls and mugs.
Pros:- Eco Mode reduces standby power draw for always-plugged-in use
- Mute function eliminates beeping in shared or quiet spaces
- Two-step child lock adds safety
- One-touch express cooking and auto presets keep operation simple
Cons:- 700W output cooks slower than the 900W picks in this roundup
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity limits dish and portion size
Best for: Dorm residents, office break rooms, and anyone who wants quiet, energy-sipping operation on a budget
Not ideal for: Cooking full meals — 700 watts and 0.7 cu. ft. mean small portions and patient waiting
- Capacity:0.7 cu ft
- Wattage:700 watts
- Power Levels:10
- Auto-Cook Presets:6 (Popcorn, Potato, Pizza, Frozen Veggie, Beverage, Reheat)
- Special Features:Eco Mode, mute function, two-step child lock
- Defrost:By weight or time
- Color:Black
Our verdict“The sensible no-frills choice for dorms and offices where quiet operation and low standby draw matter more than raw power.”
Toshiba 0.9 Cu. Ft. 900W Countertop Microwave Oven, Stainless Steel
This model is the pick for buyers who treat a microwave as a cooking tool, not just a reheater. Its 11 power levels edge out the 10 on the BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu. Ft., giving finer control for delicate jobs like softening butter or melting chocolate, and defrost by weight or time takes the guesswork out of frozen items. One-touch start for one to six minutes handles the majority of daily use in a single button press. Like its 900-watt rival, it fits a 10.6-inch turntable, so dinner plates are fine — but not platters. The stainless finish reads more premium than black, though it shows fingerprints more readily. The two-step child lock is slightly less intuitive at first than the BLACK+DECKER’s simple hold-to-lock approach, so expect a short learning curve in households with kids.
Pros:- 11 power levels offer finer control than most compact rivals
- Defrost by weight or time is more precise than timed-only options
- One-touch start for 1–6 minutes covers most quick tasks
- Stainless steel finish suits modern kitchens
Cons:- Two-step child lock can confuse users initially
- Stainless finish shows fingerprints more than matte black
- 0.9 cu. ft. interior limits family-sized dishes
Best for: Home cooks who want fine power control and precise defrosting in a compact footprint
Not ideal for: Households that want zero-friction controls — the two-step child lock takes getting used to, and 0.9 cu. ft. still caps capacity
- Capacity:0.9 cu ft
- Output Power:900 watts
- Input Power:1400 watts
- Power Levels:11
- Dimensions:18.7″ W x 13.3″ D x 10.7″ H
- Turntable Diameter:10.6 inches
- Preset Menus:6
- Child Lock:Two-step child lock
- Finish:Stainless steel
Our verdict“Choose this over the BLACK+DECKER if cooking precision outweighs having the simplest possible controls.”
How We Picked
Since “compact” means different things to different buyers, I grouped these 14 models by their two real-world configurations — 0.7 cu. ft./700W and 0.9 cu. ft./900W — and judged each against what its size class should deliver. Within each group, I weighed heating performance and evenness first, because a small microwave that leaves cold spots fails at its only job. From there, I evaluated footprint and counter depth, since buyers choosing compact models are usually working with a dorm desk, an office shelf, or a galley kitchen where every inch counts.
Usability was the third filter: control clarity, one-touch presets, and whether the door button and keypad feel like they’ll survive daily use. I also compared build quality and finish durability, since stainless and retro finishes age differently than basic black plastic, and factored in standby energy behavior where a model offered something meaningful like an Eco Mode. Finally, I considered value relative to direct competitors — when two models share nearly identical specs, as several Farberware and COMFEE’ units do, small differences in controls, noise, and interior usability decide the ranking rather than raw features.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Compact Microwaves
Before picking a specific model, it helps to understand what actually separates compact microwaves from each other — and where buyers most often make the wrong call for their situation.700 Watts vs. 900 Watts: The Real Difference
The wattage split in this category isn’t marketing — it changes how you use the machine daily. A 700-watt microwave takes roughly 30% longer to heat the same food as a 900-watt model, and packaged frozen meals often list separate cook times for each power class, which tells you the industry treats them differently. If you mostly reheat coffee, soup, or leftovers a few times a week, 700 watts is perfectly adequate and keeps the cabinet shallow enough for a dorm shelf. If you cook or reheat full dinner plates daily, the 900-watt group pays for its extra depth every single use. The most common mistake I see is buyers choosing the smaller model to save two inches of counter, then being annoyed by slow, uneven heating for years afterward. Measure your counter depth before deciding, and remember the door swing adds working depth beyond the listed dimensions.
Measure Your Space — Including the Door
Compact microwaves are usually bought for constrained spaces, yet dimensions are the most overlooked spec. Manufacturers list exterior width, height, and depth, but those figures rarely account for ventilation clearance — most models need two to three inches of airflow space behind and above, or they lose efficiency and lifespan. The door also matters: a drop-down or swing-out door needs clearance in front, which is a problem if the microwave sits on a shelf against a wall. If you’re sliding one into a cabinet or cubby, write down the interior dimensions of that space and compare them to the spec sheet before ordering anything. A 0.9 cu. ft. model is typically about two inches deeper and wider than a 0.7 cu. ft. one — that’s the entire practical difference between the two classes, so know which side of that line your space falls on.
Interior Capacity and Turntable Size
Cubic feet can be misleading because a shallow-but-wide interior holds different food than a deep-but-narrow one. What matters most in practice is the turntable diameter, because it sets the maximum plate size you can use. Most 0.7 cu. ft. models fit a dinner plate awkwardly, requiring you to angle it or use smaller dishes; the 0.9 cu. ft. group accommodates a standard plate and most frozen entrée boxes without wedging. If you regularly reheat covered bowls or casserole-style leftovers, check interior height too — some compact models have low ceilings that won’t clear a tall container with a lid. Buyers with kids or roommates should lean toward the larger class simply because more household use means more varied dish sizes. A good habit: set your largest everyday plate on the counter and picture it spinning inside before you buy.
Controls, Presets, and Everyday Usability
Small microwaves vary more in control design than you’d expect, and you interact with the keypad every single day. Membrane keypads are easier to wipe clean but can feel vague and wear out with heavy use; raised buttons are more tactile but collect grime in the seams. Presets for popcorn, pizza, and beverages are genuinely useful when they’re tuned well, but some budget models bury them under confusing multi-step sequences that defeat the purpose. Look for a quick-start button that adds 30 seconds with one press — it’s the single most-used function on any microwave. Also consider who’s using it: an office or dorm microwave benefits from dead-simple controls that don’t need instructions, while a home cook may want express power-level adjustment for defrosting and softer reheating.
Finish, Durability, and Where It Lives
Finish choice affects longevity and cleaning more than most buyers expect. Stainless steel exteriors hide wear better in kitchens but show fingerprints constantly; basic black hides smudges but can look dated in an open kitchen. Retro-styled models like the Frigidaire line are a deliberate style statement — worth it if the microwave sits in view, less sensible tucked into a pantry. Interior matters too: painted steel interiors are standard at this size, and any of them will stain and hold odors if food splatters go uncleaned, so a wipe-down habit matters more than the finish itself. Think about placement when choosing looks — a dorm or garage unit earns nothing from a premium finish, while a microwave anchoring a small apartment kitchen is essentially visible furniture. Match the spend to the visibility.
Energy Use and Standby Draw
Compact microwaves are already among the least power-hungry kitchen appliances, but standby draw is where budget models quietly differ. Displays and clocks consume electricity around the clock, and some units — like the COMFEE’ Eco Mode variant in this lineup — address this with a standby mode that cuts consumption when idle. Over a few years, this difference is modest in dollars but appealing for cabins, offices, and anyone running multiple appliances on a limited circuit. It’s also worth checking the amperage if you’re plugging into an older circuit shared with a fridge or kettle; 900-watt output translates to roughly 1,300–1,400 watts of wall draw, which can trip a shared breaker in older buildings. For dorms with strict power rules, verify wattage limits before committing to the 900-watt class.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 0.7 cu. ft. microwave big enough for daily use?
For one or two people reheating plates of leftovers, frozen entrées, and bowls, a 0.7 cu. ft. interior handles most tasks — with occasional awkwardness. A standard dinner plate fits on the turntable but sits close to the walls, and wider casserole dishes or family-size frozen meals simply won’t go in. The bigger adjustment is the 700-watt power level: packaged food instructions written for 1,000-watt microwaves need roughly 40% more time, and you’ll learn your model’s habits quickly. If you cook for a household or reassemble full meals nightly, the 0.9 cu. ft. class removes that friction entirely. Choose 0.7 when counter or shelf space is the limiting factor, not as a default.
Do I need 900 watts, or is 700 enough?
The honest answer depends on what you heat and how patient you are. A 900-watt model reheats a plate of food in about two-thirds the time a 700-watt unit needs, and the extra power heats more evenly, producing fewer cold centers in dense foods like rice or pasta. That difference compounds if the microwave serves several people a day — an office of five will feel it constantly. For light use, 700 watts is genuinely fine, and the smaller units cost less and take up less room. The mistake to avoid is buying 700 watts to save money when you cook frozen meals daily; you’ll spend years adding minutes to every cook time. Match the wattage to your usage frequency, not just your budget.
Which of these models is best for a dorm room?
Dorms change the calculus: space is minimal, the unit gets heavy shared use, and appearance matters less than durability. The COMFEE’ 0.7 cu. ft. in black and the Farberware black 0.7 cu. ft. fit this profile well — simple controls, a shallow footprint that sits on a mini-fridge or shelf, and finishes that shrug off smudges. The Eco Mode on the COMFEE’ also helps with dorm energy rules that some residence halls enforce. Check your housing guidelines for wattage caps before buying, since a few campuses limit microwave input power. Skip the retro-styled options for shared spaces; the premium finish buys nothing under student conditions and the smaller interior frustrates groups.
Are the two Frigidaire Retro models worth it over plainer options?
That depends entirely on whether the microwave sits in view. The retro models trade maximum function for personality: they’re 700-watt machines with smaller interiors, yet their styling — especially the Azure-Argent finish — makes them a design feature rather than an appliance to hide. In a small apartment kitchen or studio where the counter is part of the living space, that visual value is real and plainer models can’t replicate it. In a pantry, garage, or office break room, you’re paying for aesthetics no one will see while accepting slower heating than the 900-watt Toshiba or Chefman units cost similarly. Between the two retro finishes, the choice is purely decorative since the internals match. Buy them for looks, not performance.
What’s the difference between the three Toshiba models here?
The lineup splits into one 0.7 cu. ft. black model and two 0.9 cu. ft. 900-watt units. The 0.7 cu. ft. Toshiba competes directly with the Farberware and Chefman compact units — solid controls, smaller footprint, slower heating. The two 0.9 cu. ft. models differ mainly in finish: one is black stainless steel and the other is standard stainless, with essentially the same cooking performance. Black stainless resists fingerprints better and suits darker kitchens, while standard stainless matches more classic appliance sets. Functionally, either 0.9 model is the strongest all-around performer in this entire roundup, which is why one claims the top spot. Choose between them by finish, and choose the 0.7 model only if depth is your hard constraint.
Conclusion
After comparing all 14 models, the decision really comes down to two questions: how much counter depth can you spare, and how often will you use it? For the best overall pick, the Toshiba 0.9 Cu. Ft. 900W in Black Stainless Steel delivers the best balance of heating speed, plate capacity, and everyday usability while staying compact enough for most kitchens. If value is the priority, the COMFEE’ 0.7 Cu. Ft. with Eco Mode offers dependable basics and smart standby efficiency at the accessible end of the lineup. For beginners and students, the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. in black keeps controls simple and the footprint tiny — ideal for a first dorm or office setup.
Buyers who want premium character should look at the Frigidaire Retro in Azure-Argent, the only option here that doubles as a design statement. For specific needs: the Black+Decker 0.7 Cu. Ft. stainless model suits open kitchens where finish matters but space is tight, while the Chefman 0.9 Cu. Ft. and the stainless Toshiba 0.9 cover households that reheat real meals daily. Whatever you choose, measure your space first, match wattage to your usage, and the right pick from this list becomes obvious.
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