This story was written in collaboration with Forbes Finds. Forbes Finds covers products we think you’ll love. Featured products are independently selected and linked to for your convenience. If you buy something using a link on this page, Forbes may receive a small share of that sale.
A smaller living space doesn’t mean one has to get by on fewer kitchen essentials, but it does require being smart about shopping for them.
When it comes to purchasing a microwave, it’s important to determine which model is right for your budget, kitchen counter and overall lifestyle. Above all, a small appliance doesn’t have to be limited in function or quality. Here are 7 compact microwaves that come up big.
G.E 0.7 Cubic Feet 700-Watt Countertop Microwave
This microwave features electronic touch controls and convenient cooking options (including a mute function to keep the noise down when a dish is ready). With auto defrost and time options as well as presets for common items, this is an ideal starter microwave for a single person or small family.
Magic Chef 0.7 Cubic Feet Countertop Microwave in Black
This small but mighty microwave has 10 power levels for a variety of cooking options, convenient 30-second express cooking option, and preset functions for food preparation. It also has a vital child safety lock as well as weight and time defrost options.
Toshiba 0.9 Cubic Feet Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave Oven
This Toshiba microwave is perfect for smaller kitchens and it’s packed with power. It has 10 power levels up to 900 watts, a digital display, and six pre-programmed settings: popcorn, potatoes, frozen vegetables, beverages, dinner plate, and pizza.
LG 0.9 Cubic Feet 1000-Watt Countertop Microwave
The problem with cooking in the microwave is often parts of a dish will be overcooked around the edges with cold centers. LG’s Smart Inverter is great for precise and even heating, and there’s There’s also a stabilizer ring that prevents items on the turntable from tipping, which is a smart way to avoid a mess. But just in case, this model has an EasyClean function when you’re finished.
SMEG 24-Inch Built-In Microwave Oven
Microwaves that are small don’t have to be limited in style, and this microwave has a sleek, retro design. But it also has substance: The microwave features a turntable as well as a child safety option and a mind-boggling 36 automatic programs for everything from memory to slow cook.
RCA 0.7 Cubic Feet Countertop Microwave
This affordable microwave has 700 watts of power and 10 power levels, with six one-touch options. There are also express cooking and weight defrost options, as well as a digital timer to make things even easier.
Cuisinart 1.0 Cubic Feet Countertop Microwave
For an even more powerful microwave that doesn’t take up too much space, this Cuisinart model has 1,000 watts of cooking power and 10 power levels. It’s also easy to use with several pre-programmed one-touch controls and eight preset options that even accounts for serving size.
