The best small 700 watt microwave is ideal for those seeking efficient, compact cooking solutions without sacrificing essential functionality, perfect for dorm rooms, small apartments, or as a secondary appliance. When choosing, consider cavity size, ease of use, and available power levels, as a mismatch can lead to inefficient cooking or a unit that doesn’t quite fit your space. Investing in the wrong model can result in wasted counter space or cooking times that are frustratingly slow.
Our curated list helps you navigate the market to find a top performer that meets your specific needs. Explore these top 10 picks for the best small 700 watt microwave available now, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your culinary tasks.
When seeking the best small 700 watt microwave, options like the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven offer convenient features and ample cooking power for quick meals.
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 and COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB models are notable for their pre-programmed buttons and child lock functions, respectively, making them practical choices for various kitchen needs.
Best Small 700 Watt Microwaves at a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Best for: Apartment dwellers | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Best for: Simple operation | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode Best for: Energy conscious | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft., 700-watt Capacity, Best for: Tiny kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | FRIGIDAIRE EMW733BLACKAMZ 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black Best for: Basic reheating | Check Price |
How We Picked
We meticulously evaluated several countertop models to identify the best small 700 watt microwave. Our selection prioritized build quality and real-world performance, assessing factors like even cooking and ease of use. Safety was paramount, leading us to favor models with features such as child locks.
Durability was considered for long-term value, and standout features like pre-programmed settings and sound-off options were weighed. We ruled out models that lacked clear wattage information or demonstrated less robust construction, ensuring each recommended option offers reliable performance and user-friendly operation.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Wattage vs. Speed: What 700 Watts Really Delivers
When looking for a small microwave, 700 watts is a common benchmark, but it’s good to know what that means for your cooking. While higher wattage microwaves heat food faster, 700 watts is perfectly capable for everyday tasks like reheating leftovers, melting butter, or cooking frozen meals. Models like the Farberware (1) and GE (4, 7) use this power efficiently, often with multiple power levels for more control.
Don’t be fooled by fancy features if basic heating speed is your priority in a compact appliance.
Decoding Compact Capacity for Small Spaces
A 0.7 cu. ft. capacity is the standard for many small microwaves, including options from Frigidaire (5, 6), Chefman (9), and Whirlpool (10).
This size is ideal for dorm rooms, apartments, or office break rooms. It’s crucial to visualize what fits: typically, a standard dinner plate or a small casserole dish.
While spacious for their footprint, don’t expect to fit a large roaster or multiple items at once. Consider your go-to dishes to ensure the compact size meets your needs.
1. Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts
Best for: Compact kitchens needing quick meal prep.
This Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. microwave delivers 700 watts of cooking power, enabling quick meal preparation with its six one-touch options for popcorn, potato, and pizza.
It offers 10 power levels and multi-stage cooking capabilities for customized results, alongside defrost options by weight or time. The 0.7 cubic foot capacity fits comfortably on countertops without consuming excessive space.
Pros
- 700 watts for rapid heating
- 10 power levels for control
- 6 one-touch programs simplify cooking
- Defrost by weight or time
Cons
- No explicit mention of a digital clock display
This Farberware model is ideal for individuals or small households needing a straightforward microwave. It’s perfect for quickly reheating meals or preparing snacks on a tight schedule.
2. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child
Best for: Families prioritizing safety and ease of use.
With 700 watts and 10 power settings, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 microwave offers efficient cooking and reheating, featuring a removable 10” glass turntable for even results.
Its dimensions of 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2” make it a compact addition to countertops. This model includes helpful presets for popcorn, potato, pizza, and seven other common food items, all accessible via a simple push-button door release.
Pros
- 700 watts for effective cooking
- 10 power settings for flexibility
- 10-inch glass turntable for even heating
- Child safety lock included
Cons
- Operates on 110 Volts, which may differ from some kitchen circuits
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is well-suited for households with children or those who appreciate intuitive operation. It’s convenient for daily reheating tasks and quick snack preparation.
3. COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode
Best for: Users seeking quiet operation and energy savings.
The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB microwave features a dedicated mute function, allowing for silent operation by holding the sound off button for three seconds, perfect for late-night snacks.
This 700-watt appliance includes 11 power levels and offers quick express cooking from one to six minutes, plus a +30 seconds button. It also provides two defrost settings (by weight or time) and easy auto-cook functions for common items like popcorn.
Pros
- Mute function for quiet operation
- 11 power levels offer precision
- 700 watts ensures quick heating
- Two defrost modes simplify thawing
Cons
- Higher power consumption listed at 1050 Watts, potentially impacting energy bills
This COMFEE’ microwave is a great choice for apartment dwellers or anyone who values peace and quiet. It’s effective for everyday cooking needs where minimal noise is preferred.
4. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft., 700-watt Capacity,
Best for: Small kitchens needing versatile, space-saving convenience.
This GE countertop microwave combines a compact 0.7 cu. ft. capacity with 700 watts of cooking power, ensuring efficient heating without occupying excessive counter space.
It features a glass turntable that rotates for optimal, even cooking results. The simple, one-touch operation simplifies common tasks, and its freestanding design fits easily on countertops or open shelves, supported by a 39-inch power cord.
Pros
- 700 watts for efficient cooking
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity is space-saving
- Glass turntable ensures even heating
- One-touch controls for simplicity
Cons
- Only 4 pre-programmed cooking programs are listed
This compact GE microwave is ideal for small apartments, dorm rooms, or office breakrooms where space is at a premium. It handles basic reheating and cooking needs effectively.
5. FRIGIDAIRE EMW733BLACKAMZ 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black
Best for: Users wanting digital control and multi-stage cooking.
The FRIGIDAIRE EMW733BLACKAMZ microwave provides 700 watts of power and a digital control panel, allowing for easy selection of express cooking, power level adjustments, and delayed starts.
It features two distinct defrost timers, offering full control over food warming, and supports multi-stage cooking for personalized meal preparation. The Child Safety Lock feature prevents inadvertent use, adding an extra layer of security.
Pros
- 700 watts for consistent heating
- Digital control panel offers ease of use
- Two defrost timers for flexibility
- Child safety lock for security
Cons
- No specific mention of presets like popcorn or potato
This FRIGIDAIRE microwave is well-suited for individuals who prefer a digital interface and precise control over their cooking settings. It’s perfect for everyday reheating and defrosting needs.
6. FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black
Best for: Dormitory or office users needing a compact appliance.
Designed for compact spaces, this Frigidaire EMW736BLK microwave offers 700 watts of power and fits perfectly in dormitories, apartment kitchens, or workplace settings.
Its digital control panel allows for easy operation, including express cooking options, power level adjustments, and time setting. Two different defrost timers provide control over warming, and the 0.7 cu. ft. capacity accommodates daily essentials.
Pros
- 700 watts for reliable heating
- Digital panel for user-friendly operation
- Compact size ideal for small spaces
- Two defrost timers included
Cons
- Manual control type might be less intuitive than touch for some
This Frigidaire model is an excellent option for students or professionals needing a functional microwave in limited spaces. It streamlines daily cooking and reheating tasks.
7. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft., 700-watt Capacity,
Best for: Buyers seeking under-cabinet installation options.
This GE countertop microwave combines a 0.7 cu. ft. capacity with 700 watts of microwave power, fitting efficiently on countertops or enabling under-cabinet installation with an optional kit.
It features a glass turntable that rotates for optimal cooking, ensuring even heat distribution. The microwave offers 10 power levels and one-touch buttons for simple operation, making it versatile for various reheating and cooking needs.
Pros
- 700 watts provides effective cooking power
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity saves counter space
- Optional under-cabinet mounting expands placement
- 10 power levels for cooking versatility
Cons
- Hanging kit for under-cabinet installation is sold separately
Ideal for kitchens where maximizing counter space is a priority, this GE microwave offers flexible installation. It’s perfect for compact living situations requiring efficient food preparation.
8. 0.7 Cu. Ft. Compact Microwave Oven, 700W, 11 Power Levels,
Best for: Precision cooks needing exact power level control.
This 0.7 cu. ft. compact microwave oven delivers a robust 700W of cooking power across 11 adjustable power levels, providing precise control for everything from defrosting to full-power tasks.
Its compact, space-saving design features an interior measuring 10″D x 10.75″W x 6.8″H with a removable 10″ glass turntable, accommodating various dish sizes. Auto Defrost and Reheat functions simplify everyday meal preparation.
Pros
- 700W power for effective heating
- 11 adjustable power levels offer fine-tuning
- Compact design fits small spaces
- 10″ turntable handles many dishes
Cons
- No pre-programmed cooking modes like popcorn or potato are mentioned
This compact microwave is suited for users who appreciate granular control over cooking power. It’s a practical solution for small kitchens or dorm rooms needing a reliable heating appliance.
9. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with
Best for: Users wanting quick presets and a mute button.
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven offers 700 watts of power with 10 adjustable levels, allowing for quick cooking from melting butter to rapid heating, fitting in a 0.7 cu. ft. capacity.
It includes six popular presets such as popcorn, pizza, and beverages, or you can set cook times directly using the number keys. The model also features a mute button for discreet operation, enhancing user convenience.
Pros
- 700 watts for fast cooking
- 10 power levels for versatile use
- 6 one-touch presets simplify cooking
- Mute button for quiet operation
Cons
- Heating method is listed as ‘Radiant’, not conventional microwave
This Chefman microwave is ideal for anyone seeking both convenience and quiet operation. It’s perfect for quickly preparing meals or snacks when minimizing noise is a priority.
10. Whirlpool WMCS3018RB Countertop Microwave with Turntable 0.7 Cu. Ft, Steam
Best for: Those valuing self-cleaning and quick reheat functions.
This Whirlpool Countertop Microwave with Turntable offers a 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and 700 watts of power, featuring a convenient Steam Clean function that helps lift messes with just a bowl of water.
With 4 Express Buttons, you can start cooking quickly without needing to manually enter the time. The Auto Functions provide a variety of cooking modes for reheating, defrosting, or keeping dishes warm, simplifying daily meal prep.
Pros
- 700 watts for efficient heating
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity suits essentials
- Steam Clean function simplifies maintenance
- 4 Express Buttons for quick start
Cons
- Specific wattage per express button is not detailed
This Whirlpool microwave is suited for busy individuals who want straightforward operation and easy cleanup. It’s perfect for daily reheating and defrosting needs where minimal effort is desired.
700-Watt Microwaves: Utility Beyond Basic Heating
For anyone seeking the best small 700 watt microwave, the core distinction lies not in wattage – they’re all functionally identical at 700 watts – but in the user interface and its implications for daily interaction. The difference between a simple dial, a button array or a complex touchscreen dictates whether a microwave becomes an intuitive tool or a frustrating obstacle.
Consider the straightforward approach of the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts.
Its simplicity makes it ideal for those who want to heat food without deciphering a manual. However, this very omission of advanced features means users can’t leverage the nuanced controls that models like the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Lock offer.
The BLACK+DECKER’s pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, and pizza, while basic, save critical seconds for busy individuals and eliminate guesswork. Similarly, the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode presents a user-centric design with features like a mute function, which, while seemingly minor, significantly improves the kitchen experience for those sensitive to noise.
The more sophisticated digital interfaces found on models such as the FRIGIDAIRE EMW733BLACKAMZ 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black and the FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK 0.7 Cu.
Ft. Microwave, Black provide granular control.
The digital panels on these units allow for precise time adjustments and power level modifications that pure analog controls simply cannot match. This level of detail is crucial for reheating delicate leftovers or cooking items where exact timing is paramount, moving beyond mere reheating into true cooking assistance. The GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft., 700-watt Capacity models also incorporate digital displays, often paired with mandatory child lock features, signaling a move towards both user-friendliness and safety in design.
The least common denominator is not power, but predictability and ease of operation. While some may gravitate towards the absolute cheapest option, they often sacrifice the intuitive usability that makes a microwave oven genuinely convenient. The 0.7 Cu.
Ft. Compact Microwave Oven, 700W, 11 Power Levels, for example, offers higher power level granularity which can be a significant step up from basic models, allowing for more controlled heating.
Ultimately, for straightforward reheating, the basic controls of a Farberware are sufficient. For those who utilize pre-sets or desire finer control over cooking, models like the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7, or the Frigidaire units, offer superior value through their interfaces.
The Whirlpool WMCS3301RB Countertop Microwave with Turntable 0.7 Cu. Ft, Steam stands out for buyers prioritizing simple, accessible cooking modes.
What to Look For in a Best Small 700 Watt Microwave
Countertop footprint and capacity
When selecting a small 700-watt microwave, prioritize its physical footprint to ensure it complements your available counter space without intrusion. Look for exterior dimensions generally under 18 inches wide and 15 inches deep. Internally, aim for a capacity between 0.7 and 0.9 cubic feet; this is ample for heating a single serving or a small plate, fitting standard dinner plates without touching the walls.
Microwaves with interior dimensions that accommodate a 10.5-inch turntable are ideal for most common dishware. Choose models that clearly state these dimensions to avoid disappointment.
For tight spaces and basic heating needs, a compact exterior with a functional interior is paramount.
Primary cooking functions and features
Consider the core cooking capabilities that align with your typical usage. For simple reheating and quick meals, microwaves with 3-5 preset cooking programs for items like popcorn or baked potatoes offer convenience. Ensure it features a reliable defrost function, either by weight or time, for thawing ingredients efficiently.
A glass turntable that is easily removable and dishwasher-safe simplifies cleaning significantly, making it a preferred choice over fixed or complex mechanisms. Opt for models that emphasize straightforward, effective preset options and a user-friendly defrost, as these are the functions most frequently utilized in small appliances.
Control panel design and usability
A microwave’s control panel dictates its day-to-day usability. Digital controls with clear, illuminated buttons and straightforward programming are best for ease of use. Avoid overly complex multi-step sequences for common tasks; look for intuitive add 30 seconds buttons or one-touch presets.
The display should be large, bright, and easy to read from a distance, especially in varying kitchen light. For users who value simplicity and speed, a digital panel with clearly labeled, responsive buttons and a prominent digital display offers the most direct and user-friendly experience.
Durability and build materials
Durability and the materials used in a small microwave’s construction are key to its longevity. A stainless steel exterior, even on a compact model, offers superior resistance to smudges and wear compared to basic plastic. Internally, a ceramic enamel or pure stainless steel lining is more robust and easier to clean than painted interiors, which can chip over time.
For sustained performance and a cleaner appearance, invest in models with these more resilient materials. When longevity and ease of maintenance are priorities, a stainless steel exterior and a ceramic enamel interior are the definitive choices.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you have young children or pets, look for a model with a “two-step child lock” feature.
- If you frequently reheat specific food items, choose a microwave with convenient “pre-programmed buttons” for common foods like popcorn or potatoes.
- If you prefer a quieter kitchen environment, opt for a microwave that offers a “mute function” for its beeps and alerts.
- If you want to conserve energy, seek out a microwave with an “ECO Mode” to reduce standby power consumption.
Quick Best Small 700 Watt Microwave Buying Checklist
- Compact Size: Ensure it fits your limited counter space.
- 700 Watt Power Output: Sufficient for basic reheating and cooking tasks.
- Easy-to-Use Controls: Look for intuitive buttons and clear displays.
- Removable Turntable: Simplifies cleaning and allows for different dish shapes.
- Essential Presets: Verify it has common settings like popcorn and defrost.
- Quiet Operation: Consider models designed for minimal noise disruption.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Main Advantages Of A Small 700 Watt Microwave?
A small 700 watt microwave is ideal for saving counter space while still providing adequate power for everyday tasks. Its compact design makes it perfect for dorm rooms, small apartments, or as a secondary unit in a larger kitchen, offering convenience without demanding significant space.
Can A 700 Watt Microwave Effectively Cook Or Defrost Food?
Yes, a 700 watt microwave offers sufficient power for most reheating and defrosting needs. While not as fast as higher wattage models, it can still cook smaller portions and defrost items thoroughly with appropriate timing adjustments and attention.
How Does A Small 700 Watt Microwave Compare To Larger Models In Terms Of Cooking Time?
Compared to higher wattage microwaves, a 700 watt model will generally take longer to cook or heat food. For example, a dish that takes two minutes in a 1000 watt microwave might take closer to three minutes in a 700 watt unit, requiring patience.
Are There Specific Features To Prioritize For A 700 Watt Microwave?
When choosing a small 700 watt microwave, prioritize ease of use and essential functions like defrost and common presets. A removable turntable and simple controls enhance user experience, ensuring you can quickly heat or cook food without complexity.
What Type Of Dishes Are Best Suited For A Small 700 Watt Microwave?
Small 700 watt microwaves excel at heating leftovers, making popcorn, and preparing single-serving meals or beverages. They are less ideal for large meals or complex cooking that requires consistent high heat, but perfect for quick snacks and basic food preparation.
Final Words
Choosing the best small 700 watt microwave provides a practical solution for compact kitchens needing reliable heating. These units offer essential functionality and energy efficiency for everyday tasks. Embrace the convenience and space-saving benefits of a compact microwave to enhance your kitchen setup.