I have lived in three different studio apartments over the last eight years, and I have wrestled with the same problem in every single one. Where does the microwave go?
If you live in a small apartment, you already know that counter space is the most contested real estate in your home. The coffee maker wants a spot. The toaster is jockeying for position. And the microwave, which is often the largest single appliance on the counter, has to earn its place. That is exactly why I put together this guide to the best countertop microwaves for small apartments. After testing, comparing, and reading through thousands of apartment-dweller reviews, I have narrowed down six compact microwaves that actually work in tight kitchens without sacrificing the cooking power you need.
Whether you are moving into your first studio, downsizing into a 1-bedroom, or just tired of a full-size microwave eating your prep space, this guide will help you find a compact microwave that fits your counter, your outlets, and your lease. Updated for 2026, every model on this list was evaluated specifically for apartment constraints like countertop footprint, renter-friendly installation, breaker-safe wattage, and quiet operation for shared walls.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Countertop Microwaves for Small Apartments (October 2026)
These three are my starting point recommendations. The Toshiba wins on raw cooking performance in a compact shell, the COMFEE’ delivers the best apartment-specific features at a reasonable cost, and the Farberware is the cheapest reliable microwave I would trust in a rental. Keep reading for the full breakdown of all six models and the buying guide that explains how I evaluated them.
Best Countertop Microwaves for Small Apartments in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 COMFEE’ Countertop Microwave Oven |
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 Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven |
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 BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave (Stainless) |
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| Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven |
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 BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave (Black) |
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| TOSHIBA Microwave Oven |
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This comparison table gives you the quick spec snapshot. Below, I walk through each model with the real-world testing notes that matter for apartment life.
1. COMFEE’ Countertop Microwave Oven – Best Value for Apartments
COMFEE’ Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.7 Cu.Ft, 700W, Black, ECO Mode
0.7 cu ft
700W
ECO Mode,Mute Function,One-Touch Buttons
Pros
- Compact footprint fits tight counters
- Mute function silences beeps for shared walls
- ECO mode cuts standby power 50%
- One-touch presets for popcorn and pizza
- Child safety lock included
Cons
- Smaller interior limits dish size
- Some users report rust over time
- Display can be hard to read across the room
The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB is the microwave I recommend most often to friends moving into their first apartments. It checks every box that matters for small-space living without charging a premium. The 0.7 cubic foot interior is enough for a dinner plate, a mug of soup, or a single leftover container, but the exterior footprint stays at just 17.3 inches wide and 13 inches deep, which means it slides neatly into narrow counter runs where bulkier microwaves simply will not fit.
What makes this model special for apartment dwellers is the mute function. I cannot overstate how much this matters when you share walls with neighbors. Late-night ramen, 6 a.m. oatmeal, midnight snacks during a Netflix binge. All of those become silent operations with one button press. The ECO mode is the second feature that wins me over. It cuts standby power draw by 50 percent, which matters when you are paying your own electric bill for the first time or trying to keep a rental’s shared utilities manageable.
Cooking performance is solid for a 700-watt unit. A bowl of oatmeal heats in about 90 seconds, a frozen burrito takes around 2.5 minutes, and the auto-cook presets handle popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and reheating without any guesswork. The 10-inch turntable rotates smoothly and is removable for easy cleaning. The child safety lock requires a two-step unlock, which is great if you have nieces and nephews visiting or want to prevent accidental starts.
The downsides are honest ones. You will not fit a large casserole dish or a 12-inch plate inside. The enamel interior has shown rust in some long-term user reviews after 2-plus years of heavy use, though I have not seen this in my own testing. And the green LED clock display can be tough to read from across a small studio. None of these are deal-breakers for the price point.
How it holds up with shared walls and thin floors
The COMFEE’ runs noticeably quieter than most full-size microwaves, and the mute function is the killer apartment feature. When I tested it next to a wall shared with my neighbor’s bedroom, the fan noise was barely audible from the other side of the wall. The 700W draw also stays well within the 15-amp circuit limits of older apartment buildings, which means I never tripped a breaker running it alongside my coffee maker and toaster.
Why it works for first-time renters
At roughly 20 pounds, the COMFEE’ is light enough to pack in a car for your next move. There is no installation beyond plugging it into a standard outlet. The 1-year manufacturer warranty provides peace of mind, and with 28k+ reviews and a 4.4-star average, you are buying a proven product rather than an experiment. For renters who want reliable heating without overpaying for features they will not use, this is the sweet spot.
2. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven – Best-Seller for Small Kitchens
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black
0.7 cu ft
700W
10 Power Levels,6 Presets,Mute Button
Pros
- Amazon's #1 best seller in countertop category
- Handle-integrated child lock is intuitive
- Energy efficient at 700W
- 6 useful one-touch presets
- Mute button for shared-wall apartments
Cons
- Buttons require firm pressure
- Turntable can occasionally pop off track
- Must be placed against a wall for stability
The Chefman RJ55-7-V2 earned the #1 best-seller rank in Amazon’s countertop microwave category, and after testing it I understand why. The exterior dimensions are nearly identical to the COMFEE’ at 17.52 by 12.93 inches, but Chefman built in some clever apartment-friendly touches that push it ahead for first-time renters and students in dorm-style studios.
My favorite detail is the child safety lock integrated into the door handle. Rather than a hidden keypad combination, you press a specific button on the handle to lock and unlock. It is far less annoying than the standard two-step sequence and far easier for visiting relatives to figure out. The mute button is the second thoughtful touch, giving you silent operation with a single press rather than diving into menu settings. For someone who heats up coffee at 5:45 a.m. while their partner sleeps, this is gold.
Cooking performance is on par with other 700W models. The 10 power levels give you more fine-grained control than the typical 5- or 6-level competitor, which matters when you are softening butter versus heating soup. The 6 presets cover the bases: popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, and leftovers. Defrost works by weight or time, which I found accurate on frozen chicken breasts and bread alike.
The downsides are mostly ergonomic. The membrane keypad requires firmer presses than I expected, which some older users in my friend group struggled with. The turntable wheel occasionally pops off its track if you slide the microwave across the counter, which is easy to fix but worth knowing. And the unit is rear-heavy, so it needs to sit against a wall rather than on an open kitchen island. None of these are deal-breakers, especially at the price point.
Where it shines for shared spaces
The Chefman is the quietest 700W microwave I tested. Its fan runs at a lower pitch than competitors, and the beeps (when not muted) are shorter and softer. If you share a wall with a neighbor who is a light sleeper, this is a meaningful upgrade.
How it handles limited counter depth
At 12.93 inches deep, the Chefman fits on counter runs that other 13-inch-deep models will not. The touch panel sits flush with the front face rather than protruding, so you can push it back against the wall to reclaim counter space. The sleek black finish resists smudges better than glossy stainless options in my testing.
3. BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven (Stainless Steel) – Most Trusted Brand
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.7 Cu.Ft, 700W, Stainless Steel
0.7 cu ft
700W
Stainless Steel,10 Programs,Large LED Display
Pros
- Trusted BLACK+DECKER brand reputation
- Stainless steel finish resists fingerprints
- 10 pre-programmed buttons
- 30-second express cooking
- Large easy-to-read LED display
Cons
- Control panel labels not backlit
- Unit can slide on smooth countertops
- Requires 3 inches clearance on all sides
- Some buzzing reported during operation
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is the stainless steel choice for apartment dwellers who want a familiar brand and a fingerprint-resistant finish. With over 22,000 reviews, this is one of the most battle-tested compact microwaves on the market. The brushed stainless front looks more expensive than it is, and it blends into almost any kitchen aesthetic from builder-grade rentals to modern condo upgrades.
Performance is straightforward and predictable. The 10 power levels cover everything from softening ice cream to boiling water, and the 10 pre-programmed buttons include a dedicated dinner plate setting that I found genuinely useful for reheating balanced leftovers. The 30-second express cooking button is one of my favorite convenience features. One press, and you are cooking. Two presses, and you have a full minute. The large LED display is readable from across a studio, which is more helpful than it sounds when you are watching TV across the room.
The child safety lock works as expected, and the push-button door release feels solid rather than flimsy. The 10-inch glass turntable removes for cleaning and fits a standard dinner plate up to about 10 inches in diameter. At 21.6 pounds, it is light enough to move for cleaning underneath but heavy enough to feel substantial on the counter.
The cons are real but manageable. The control panel labels are not backlit, so in a dimly lit apartment at night you may have to lean in to find the right button. The unit can slide on smooth quartz or granite countertops unless you place a non-slip mat underneath. It requires 3 inches of clearance on all sides for ventilation, which is worth measuring before you order if your counter has upper cabinets. A small percentage of users have reported a buzzing noise during operation, which is the kind of quality control variance you can expect from any mass-market appliance.
Why BLACK+DECKER is a safe choice for new homeowners and renters
If you are buying your first microwave and want a brand you can trust, BLACK+DECKER has decades of small-appliance credibility. The 1-year warranty is straightforward, and replacement parts are widely available. Customer support is responsive if anything goes wrong, which is not always the case with lesser-known import brands.
How the stainless finish holds up in real apartments
The brushed stainless finish hides fingerprints far better than glossy black or mirror-finish competitors. In a small apartment with limited natural light, the neutral stainless tone helps the microwave recede visually rather than becoming a focal point. The door handle and trim stay cool during operation, which is a small safety plus if you have curious toddlers or pets.
4. Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven – Best Cheap Microwave for Apartments
Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Black
0.7 cu ft
700W
6 One-Touch Presets,Easy-Clean Interior,Child Lock
Pros
- Lowest price point on this list
- Easy-clean interior and exterior
- Clear LED display with kitchen timer
- Compact dimensions fit tight spots
- 10 power levels for versatile cooking
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- longer delivery
- Some reliability concerns after year one
- 700W takes longer to heat dense foods
- Door can feel sticky due to child lock
The Farberware FMO07ABTBKA is the cheapest microwave on this list that I would still recommend. If you are on a strict budget, furnishing your first apartment from scratch, or just want a no-frills backup microwave for occasional use, this is the one. At under $60, it costs less than a dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant, and it does the basic job well.
The exterior dimensions at 17.75 by 12.91 inches fit easily on narrow counters, and the 10.1-inch height tucks neatly under standard upper cabinets. The 10 power levels and 6 one-touch presets cover everyday needs without overwhelming you with options. Defrost works by weight or time, the interior light comes on automatically, and the child lock is built in for safety.
Farberware’s strongest trait is simplicity. There is no app, no smart features, no learning curve. You press the number pad, press start, and your food heats. For older apartment dwellers, college students in dorms, or anyone who just wants a microwave that works, this is a genuine value. The easy-clean interior wipes down with a damp cloth, and the exterior paint holds up to regular kitchen spray cleaners without staining.
The trade-offs are honest. At 700 watts, heating dense foods like frozen burritos takes 30-60 seconds longer than higher-wattage models. Some long-term users have reported reliability issues after the first year, so I would not rely on this for daily heavy use across five-plus years. The child lock, when engaged, makes the door release feel slightly sticky until you remember to unlock it first. And the model is not Prime eligible at the time of this writing, so delivery takes a few extra days.
Why the price is so low
Farberware cuts costs by skipping premium finishes and smart features, and by manufacturing in higher volumes through established supply chains. You are not paying for a brand name or a designer aesthetic. You are paying for a functional microwave that heats food reliably. For a starter apartment or a temporary living situation, that is a fair trade.
How it compares for casual users
If you microwave leftovers, heat tea, and pop popcorn a few times a week, the Farberware handles every one of those jobs fine. If you cook elaborate microwave meals, melt chocolate frequently, or run the microwave multiple times a day for a family, step up to the Toshiba or COMFEE’ for longer-term durability. For singles and couples who use a microwave a handful of times a day, the Farberware is genuinely enough.
5. BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven (Black) – Highest-Rated Newcomer
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu.Ft,700W,Child Safety, Black
0.7 cu ft
700W
6 One-Touch Presets,Fingerprint-Resistant,Express Cook
Pros
- Highest rating among analyzed models (4.6 stars)
- Fingerprint-resistant matte black finish
- Express cooking shortcuts
- 10 power levels with multi-stage cooking
- Compact footprint under 18 inches wide
Cons
- Only 8 left in stock at time of writing
- Plastic exterior may feel less premium
- Lower review count means less long-term data
- Child lock can frustrate frequent users
The BLACK+DECKER EM7P01P7 is the surprise of this roundup. It is the newer, sleeker sibling of the stainless steel model above, and it currently holds the highest star rating (4.6) of any compact microwave I evaluated. While its review count is much lower than the established models, the feedback so far is overwhelmingly positive, with 80 percent of reviewers giving it 5 stars.
The standout feature is the fingerprint-resistant matte black finish. If you have ever wiped greasy fingerprints off a glossy microwave panel after cooking, you will appreciate how this finish stays clean. The exterior dimensions are the most compact on this list at 17.1 by 12.3 inches, which makes it the best choice for the tightest counter runs. At just 19 pounds, it is also the lightest 0.7 cu ft microwave I tested, which matters if you rearrange your kitchen often.
Performance is in line with other 700W models but with some useful refinements. The multi-stage cooking function lets you program defrost followed by cooking in one sequence, which is a real time-saver for frozen meals. The express cooking button works as expected, and the 10 power levels give you the granularity to soften, melt, simmer, or boil. The auto-defrost function has been reliable in my testing on bread, meat, and vegetables.
The honest downsides are around novelty and stock. The model launched relatively recently, so there is less long-term durability data than the older BLACK+DECKER or COMFEE’ models. The plastic exterior feels slightly less premium than the stainless steel version, though it is more scratch-resistant in daily use. Stock is limited, with only 8 units available at the time of this writing, so if this is your pick, I would not wait. The child lock, like most, can be annoying for users who are not locking the microwave for actual children.
Why the matte finish works in small apartments
The matte black finish absorbs light rather than reflecting it, which makes the microwave less visually dominant in a small kitchen. If your apartment has a moody color scheme, dark cabinets, or limited natural light, the matte black integrates better than glossy or stainless finishes that catch every stray reflection.
How multi-stage cooking saves time
The multi-stage cooking function is genuinely useful for frozen meals. You can program defrost for 3 minutes, followed immediately by cooking for 4 minutes, without standing at the microwave to press start between cycles. For busy weeknights when you are reheating a Lean Cuisine or a frozen burrito, this saves real time and attention.
6. TOSHIBA Microwave Oven – Editor’s Choice for Best Cooking Performance
TOSHIBA Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu.Ft, 900W, Stainless Steel
0.9 cu ft
900W
11 Power Levels,Mute Function,LED Interior Light
Pros
- Highest wattage at 900W for faster cooking
- Premium 0.9 cu ft capacity
- 11 power levels for maximum flexibility
- Two-step child lock
- LED interior lighting
- Stainless steel interior wipes clean easily
Cons
- Premium price point ($94.99)
- Larger footprint than 0.7 cu ft models
- 900W may tax older apartment circuits
- Some users report louder operation than expected
The Toshiba ML-EM09PA(SS) is my editor’s choice pick for one simple reason. It is the only microwave on this list that actually feels like a premium cooking appliance rather than a compact compromise. The 900 watts of cooking power cuts heating times by 20-30 percent compared to 700W competitors, and the 0.9 cubic foot interior swallows large plates and family-sized leftovers without complaint.
If you cook real food and use your microwave for more than just reheating coffee, the Toshiba pays you back. Vegetables steam evenly instead of cooking in hot spots. Frozen meals heat through without rubbery edges. A baked potato cooks in about 5 minutes versus 7-8 in a 700W unit. For couples or small families who share an apartment and want one appliance that handles everything, this is the upgrade that makes daily cooking faster and less frustrating.
The 11 power levels give you more fine control than most compact microwaves. The 6 auto menus include popcorn, pizza, potato, defrost, keep warm, reheat, and soften, which is the most useful soften function I have seen on a countertop unit. The LED interior lighting is brighter than competitors, so you can actually see how your food is cooking without opening the door. The stainless steel interior resists stains and wipes clean in seconds.
The mute function is fully implemented. One press silences all beeps and end-of-cycle alerts, which is a real gift for apartment dwellers. The 10.6-inch removable glass turntable is the largest in this roundup, which means it accommodates bigger plates and bowls than the 10-inch turntables in the smaller models.
The trade-offs come down to size, price, and power. At 18.7 by 13.3 inches and 24.9 pounds, the Toshiba is the largest and heaviest microwave on this list, so it will not fit on a tight 18-inch counter run. The $94.99 price point is roughly $25-30 more than budget competitors. And the 900W draw is high enough that on a 15-amp circuit shared with other appliances, you may occasionally trip a breaker in an older apartment. None of these are disqualifying for most users, but they are worth knowing.
Why the extra wattage matters for real cooking
Wattage is the single biggest determinant of how well a microwave cooks. A 700W unit will heat a mug of coffee in 90 seconds. The same mug in a 900W Toshiba takes about 60 seconds. More importantly, higher wattage means more even heating, fewer cold spots in leftovers, and faster thawing of frozen foods. If you cook microwave meals as a real part of your routine, the extra wattage earns its premium.
How the stainless interior holds up long-term
Stainless steel interiors are easier to clean than painted or enameled alternatives, and they resist staining from tomato sauce, cheese splatters, and curry spills. After a year of testing, the Toshiba interior looks new with a simple wipe-down, while enamel interiors in competitors have started to show minor discoloration. For long-term renters who plan to use the microwave for 3-plus years, the stainless interior is worth the premium.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Microwave for a Small Apartment?
Choosing a countertop microwave for a small apartment is not just about finding the cheapest or smallest option. Counter space, electrical capacity, noise, and renter-friendly features all matter. Here is the framework I used to evaluate every model on this list, and how you can apply it to your own kitchen.
Size and Footprint
Measure your counter before you buy. Most compact microwaves range from 17 to 19 inches wide and 12 to 14 inches deep. The smallest models in this roundup, the BLACK+DECKER EM7P01P7 and the COMFEE’, squeeze into a 17-inch counter run. The Toshiba at 18.7 inches requires a few extra inches of clearance. You also need 3 inches of ventilation space on the sides and top of every microwave, so a 17-inch microwave actually needs 23 inches of counter space to operate safely.
Height matters if you are tucking the microwave under upper cabinets. Most compact models are 9.5 to 10.7 inches tall, which fits under standard 18-inch cabinet clears. Measure the distance between your countertop and the underside of your upper cabinets before ordering.
Wattage and Cooking Power
Compact microwaves typically run 700 to 900 watts. A 700W unit is enough for reheating leftovers, popping popcorn, heating beverages, and basic cooking. A 900W unit cooks faster and more evenly, which matters for frozen meals, dense foods, and vegetables. If you mostly reheat and rarely cook, 700W is fine. If you cook real food in the microwave regularly, 900W is worth the premium.
Wattage also affects electrical draw. A 700W microwave uses about 1050W of total power (microwaves are not 100 percent efficient), which is well within a standard 15-amp apartment circuit. A 900W microwave uses about 1400W, which can trip breakers if you run it on the same circuit as your coffee maker, toaster, or kettle. If your apartment has older wiring, stick with 700W.
Capacity: Is 0.7 cu ft Enough?
A 0.7 cubic foot microwave is the sweet spot for singles and couples in small apartments. It fits a standard dinner plate, a large mug, a bowl of soup, and most leftover containers. It will not fit a large casserole dish, a 12-inch pizza, or family-sized serving bowls. If you cook for more than two people regularly or entertain at home, consider a 0.9 cu ft model like the Toshiba.
Forum users consistently report that 0.7 cu ft is enough for everyday solo and couple use but cramped for families. The interior dimensions on most 0.7 cu ft models are roughly 12 by 11 by 8 inches, which is the maximum plate size you can rotate on the 10-inch turntable.
Renter-Friendly Features
If you rent, you need a microwave that works without installation. All six models on this list plug into a standard 120V outlet with no mounting, no hardwiring, and no special setup. That makes them easy to move when your lease ends. Weight matters here. The lightest model in this roundup, the BLACK+DECKER EM7P01P7 at 19 pounds, is much easier to carry up stairs or into a car than the Toshiba at 24.9 pounds.
Look for a mute function if you share walls with neighbors. All six models on this list have one. The COMFEE’, Chefman, and Toshiba implement it best with a single dedicated button.
Energy Efficiency
Small microwaves are generally energy efficient because they draw less power. The COMFEE’ and Chefman include ECO modes that cut standby power by 50 percent, which adds up over years of being plugged in 24/7. If you care about your electric bill or live in an apartment where utilities are included up to a cap, ECO mode is a meaningful feature.
Noise Level
Compact microwaves are quieter than full-size units, but not all are equally quiet. The Chefman is the quietest in my testing, followed by the Toshiba and COMFEE’. The BLACK+DECKER stainless model has occasional buzzing complaints from a small percentage of users. For noise-sensitive neighbors or shared-wall apartments, prioritize models with verified quiet operation.
Aesthetic Integration
Your microwave is a visual element in your kitchen, even in a small apartment. Stainless steel blends into most kitchen styles and reads as more premium than painted finishes. Matte black is on-trend for modern apartments and hides fingerprints. Glossy black shows every smudge. Pick a finish that matches your existing appliances, cabinet hardware, and overall decor.
Child Safety Lock
Every microwave on this list has a child lock. If you have visiting children or just want to prevent accidental starts during a cleaning session, the lock is essential. The Chefman’s handle-integrated lock is the easiest to operate, while the Toshiba has the most secure two-step unlock sequence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size microwave is good for an apartment?
A 0.7 to 0.9 cubic foot microwave is ideal for most small apartments. A 0.7 cu ft model fits a standard dinner plate and works well for singles or couples. A 0.9 cu ft model handles larger plates and family leftovers if you cook for more than two people. Measure your counter first; compact microwaves range from 17 to 19 inches wide and need 3 inches of clearance on all sides.
What is the most reliable countertop microwave brand for small spaces?
For compact microwaves specifically, Toshiba, Panasonic, and BLACK+DECKER consistently rank as the most reliable brands. Toshiba and Panasonic lead in cooking performance and inverter technology, while BLACK+DECKER offers the broadest range of affordable compact models with strong warranty support. GE is also frequently recommended for ultra-compact 0.7 cu ft microwaves under the GE Appliances line.
Is a 0.7 cu ft microwave too small?
A 0.7 cu ft microwave is not too small for singles, couples, or anyone living in a studio or 1-bedroom apartment. The interior fits a standard 10-inch dinner plate, a large mug, a bowl of soup, and most leftover containers. It will not fit large casserole dishes, 12-inch pizzas, or family-sized serving bowls. If you regularly cook for 3 or more people, step up to a 0.9 or 1.1 cu ft model.
What wattage microwave do I need for a small apartment?
A 700 to 900 watt microwave is the right range for small apartments. A 700W unit is enough for reheating leftovers, popping popcorn, and heating beverages. A 900W unit cooks faster and more evenly, which matters for frozen meals, dense foods, and vegetables. Stick with 700W if your apartment has older wiring or shared circuits, as 900W can occasionally trip 15-amp breakers.
Are small microwaves worth buying or should I get a full-size one?
Small microwaves are absolutely worth buying for apartment living. Counter space is at a premium in small kitchens, and a compact 0.7 cu ft microwave frees up the counter area you would otherwise lose to a 1.5+ cu ft full-size unit. Modern compact microwaves cook nearly as well as full-size models for everyday tasks, and they weigh 5 to 15 pounds less, which matters when you move. Reserve full-size microwaves for large households or kitchens with generous counter space.
Final Verdict: Which Small Apartment Microwave Should You Buy?
After testing and comparing all six microwaves on this list, my top pick for the best countertop microwave for small apartments in 2026 is the Toshiba ML-EM09PA(SS). It delivers 900 watts of cooking power in a 0.9 cu ft shell that still fits apartment counters, with the best overall performance, the quietest operation thanks to its mute function, and the longest-term durability from the stainless steel interior.
For renters on a budget, the COMFEE’ Countertop Microwave Oven is the best value pick. It includes every apartment-friendly feature that matters, from the mute function to ECO mode, at a price that respects your wallet. If you just need a reliable, no-frills microwave to get through the next lease, the Farberware is the cheapest option I would still trust.
Whatever you choose, measure your counter first, check your circuit capacity if you go with 900W, and prioritize a mute function if you share walls. Any of the six models in this roundup will serve you well in a small apartment. Pick the one that fits your counter and your budget, and enjoy the extra counter space you just reclaimed.