The Best Microwave Oven Models for Small Kitchens: Space-Saving Tips & Top Picks That Fit Anywhere
You just moved into that adorable apartment with the tiny kitchen, and now you’re staring at your countertop wondering if you really need to give up your coffee maker just to fit a microwave.
TLDR: Small kitchens need smart microwave choices. You don’t have to sacrifice cooking power just because space is tight. This guide covers compact, low-profile, and built-in models that actually fit—plus mounting tricks that free up precious counter space. Whether you rent or own, there’s a solution that works.
Key Takeaways
- Low-profile over-the-range microwaves are game-changers. They’re only 10-11 inches tall, which leaves room for taller pots on your cooktop.
- Compact countertop models under 0.7 cubic feet fit on tight corners or small shelves.
- Drawer microwaves slide into lower cabinets but cost more (800-1,500).
- Mounting brackets can put a standard microwave under a cabinet, removing it from the counter completely.
- Door style matters: Drop-down doors need clearance; side-swing doors work better in corners.
- Under 20 inches wide is the magic number for truly small spaces.
The Best Microwave Oven Models for Small Kitchens Start With Smart Sizing
Let’s be real. Most microwaves are huge. A standard countertop model gobbles up 15-20 inches of depth and leaves you with barely enough room for a cutting board. But manufacturers have noticed that city apartments and tiny homes are here to stay. Now there are real options that don’t force you to choose between a microwave and a toaster.
Here’s the honest truth: the best microwave for your small kitchen depends less on fancy features and more on where you can put it. So let’s walk through every placement option first, then match you with specific models.
Your Four Placement Options (Ranked From Cheapest to Most Expensive)
Option 1: Compact countertop (budget-friendly, zero installation)
You set it down and plug it in. That’s it. The catch? It still takes up counter space. But compact models shrink the footprint dramatically.
Option 2: Under-cabinet mounted (mid-range, simple install)
A mounting bracket attaches your microwave under an upper cabinet. The microwave hangs there, completely off your counter. You lose a little cabinet space above (where the bracket goes), but gain back 1.5-2 square feet of work surface.
Option 3: Low-profile over-the-range (mid-to-premium, replaces your hood)
This goes above your cooktop, replacing the range hood. The big news: low-profile models are only 10-11 inches tall versus the standard 16-17 inches. That extra 6 inches of clearance means you can actually use your back burners for tall pots.
Option 4: Drawer microwave (premium, built-in look)
These slide into lower cabinets like a drawer. You pull it open, drop in your food, push it closed. They look incredible and save all upper space. But they start around 800 and go up to 1,500.
“The transformation from bulky countertop hogs to slim, integrated appliances shows how kitchen design is finally catching up with how real people live in small spaces.”
Now let’s get specific.
How Microwaves Shrunk Down (1980–2026)
1980s – Countertop microwaves are massive (1.5+ cu ft) and considered luxury items 1990s – Over-the-range becomes popular; standard height is 16-17 inches 2000s – Compact 0.5-0.7 cu ft models appear for dorms and RVs 2015 – Sharp introduces first drawer microwave for built-in luxury 2020 – Low-profile over-the-range launches (10 inches tall) 2024 – Toshiba and GE drop compact smart microwaves with app control 2026 – Under-cabinet mounting kits now available for most major brands
Best Countertop Compact Models (Under 18 Inches Wide)
These sit on your counter but don’t dominate it. Measure your available depth and width before buying—depth is usually the killer.
Toshiba EM131A5C-SS
- Width: 20.5 inches | Depth: 17.1 inches | Capacity: 1.2 cu ft
- Smart sensor cooking + pre-programmed menus
- 1100 watts of power (hotter than many full-size units)
- Around 130
- The sweet spot for a “normal” microwave that just fits
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7
- Width: 17.3 inches | Depth: 13 inches | Capacity: 0.7 cu ft
- 700 watts (slower cooking but fine for reheating)
- Simple dial controls (no confusing buttons)
- Around 70
- Best for dorm rooms, RVs, or a second microwave
Commercial Chef CHM660W
- Width: 17.5 inches | Depth: 13.8 inches | Capacity: 0.6 cu ft
- 600 watts – the smallest practical power
- Mechanical dials (they last forever)
- Around 55
- Perfect for a studio apartment or office break room
Panasonic NN-SD26KS
- Width: 19.4 inches | Depth: 15.9 inches | Capacity: 0.8 cu ft
- 950 watts with Inverter technology (even defrosting)
- Compact but still fits a dinner plate
- Around 150
- Best small microwave for actual cooking, not just reheating
Interesting fact: A 0.7 cu ft microwave can still fit a standard 10-inch dinner plate. Measure your plates before buying smaller than that.
Pro tip for countertop placement: leave 3 inches of clearance on all sides for ventilation. If you cram a microwave into a tight bookshelf, it will overheat and shut down.
Best Low-Profile Over-the-Range Models (Only 10-11 Inches Tall)
These are the heroes of tiny kitchens. A standard over-the-range microwave hangs down 16-17 inches from your upper cabinet. That leaves barely 13 inches of clearance to your cooktop. Good luck using a stockpot on your back burner.
Low-profile models cut that height to 10 inches. Suddenly you have 19-20 inches of clearance. Tall pots fit. Your back burners become usable again.
GE JVM6175SKBB (Low-Profile)
- Height: 10 inches | Width: 24 inches | Depth: 16 inches
- 1.1 cu ft capacity (smaller inside than standard)
- 950 watts with sensor cooking
- Exhaust fan (300 CFM) – decent but not powerful
- Around 350-400
- Best affordable low-profile option
LG LMV2031ST (Low-Profile)
- Height: 10 inches | Width: 24 inches | Depth: 15.9 inches
- 1.1 cu ft capacity
- 1000 watts with Smart Inverter
- 400 CFM exhaust with recirculating option
- Around 400-450
- Best for even heating and defrosting
Samsung ME21A7010N (Low-Profile)
- Height: 10.2 inches | Width: 24 inches | Depth: 16.2 inches
- 1.1 cu ft capacity
- 1000 watts with ceramic enamel interior (easy clean)
- 400 CFM exhaust
- Around 430-480
- Best interior coating – wipes clean like magic
Safety reminder: Low-profile microwaves have smaller interiors. A 9×13 casserole dish might not fit. Measure your most-used cookware before buying.
Best Small Kitchen Microwaves by Placement
| Model | Placement Type | Width | Depth | Height | Capacity | Wattage | Approx Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Chef CHM660W | Countertop | 17.5″ | 13.8″ | 10.2″ | 0.6 cu ft | 600W | 55 |
| BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 | Countertop | 17.3″ | 13″ | 10.2″ | 0.7 cu ft | 700W | 70 |
| Toshiba EM131A5C-SS | Countertop | 20.5″ | 17.1″ | 12.8″ | 1.2 cu ft | 1100W | 130 |
| Panasonic NN-SD26KS | Countertop | 19.4″ | 15.9″ | 11.5″ | 0.8 cu ft | 950W | 150 |
| GE JVM6175SKBB | Low-profile OTR | 24″ | 16″ | 10″ | 1.1 cu ft | 950W | 380 |
| LG LMV2031ST | Low-profile OTR | 24″ | 15.9″ | 10″ | 1.1 cu ft | 1000W | 420 |
| Samsung ME21A7010N | Low-profile OTR | 24″ | 16.2″ | 10.2″ | 1.1 cu ft | 1000W | 450 |
| Sharp SMD2470ASY | Drawer (built-in) | 24″ | 22.8″ | 16″ | 1.2 cu ft | 950W | 1,050 |
| Toshiba ML2-EC10SA | Under-cabinet mount | 20.2″ | 15.5″ | 12.2″ | 1.0 cu ft | 1000W | 180 |
Counter Space Saved by Microwave Type
This chart shows how much usable counter space you get back with each type of small-kitchen microwave solution. Measurements assume a standard 25-inch deep counter.
What this tells you: Countertop models always eat some workspace. Under-cabinet, over-the-range, and drawer models give you that space back entirely. If counter space is your biggest pain point, mounting is worth the extra cost and install effort.
Drawer Microwaves: The Premium Small-Kitchen Dream
Drawer microwaves slide into lower cabinets. You don’t lose upper space. You don’t lose counter space. You just pull open a drawer, put your food in, and slide it closed.
The catch: They’re expensive. Plan on 1,000 to 1,500 installed.
Who makes them:
- Sharp – invented the category, still the leader
- Bosch – premium German quality
- Thermador – luxury level (2,000+)
- Whirlpool – more affordable drawer option
Sharp SMD2470ASY specs:
- 1.2 cu ft capacity (fits a 9×13 dish)
- 950 watts
- Drawer opens automatically (touch or push)
- Around 1,050 plus installation
Interesting fact: Drawer microwaves were originally designed for accessible kitchens (wheelchair users). The low pull-open design eliminates reaching up or bending down awkwardly.
Who should buy a drawer microwave:
- You’re remodeling anyway (adds 500-800 in cabinet work)
- You have a lower cabinet that’s otherwise wasted (like a blind corner)
- Counter space is truly nonexistent (think 12 inches of depth)
- Budget isn’t the main concern
Who should skip it:
- Renters (you can’t modify cabinets)
- Anyone under a 800 total appliance budget
- People who microwave large platters often (the drawer opening is narrower)
Under-Cabinet Mounting: The Hack Nobody Told You About
You don’t need a special microwave for this. Most standard countertop microwaves under 30 pounds can be mounted under a cabinet using a universal mounting kit.
What you need:
- Universal under-cabinet microwave mount (30-50 on Amazon)
- Standard countertop microwave (under 25 pounds recommended)
- Drill and basic hand tools
- About 45 minutes
Which microwaves work best for under-cabinet mounting:
- Lightweight models (under 20 lbs)
- Units with flat tops (no vents on top – check your manual)
- Depth under 16 inches so it doesn’t hit your head
Toshiba ML2-EC10SA – designed specifically for under-cabinet use
- 1.0 cu ft | 1000 watts | 20.2″ wide x 15.5″ deep
- Flat top with front ventilation
- Around 180
Safety reminder: Never mount a microwave that vents through the top. It will overheat and could start a fire. Check your microwave’s manual for “built-in approved” or “under-cabinet ready” language.
Pros of under-cabinet mounting:
- Counter space completely freed up
- Costs only 30-50 for the bracket (plus the microwave you already own)
- Removable when you move
Cons:
- You lose 4-6 inches of upper cabinet space (the bracket takes it)
- Microwave hangs at face level (tall people might hit their head)
- Not as polished as over-the-range
What About Microwave Drawers Inside Islands?
If you have a kitchen island, you have a secret weapon. A microwave drawer installed in the island’s lower cabinet keeps everything off your main counters and out of sight.
Why island placement works so well:
- The microwave isn’t in your main work triangle
- Kids can reach it easily (which is also a con)
- It looks like a regular drawer when closed
Best model for island installation: Sharp SMD2470ASY (same as above). The automatic open drawer works perfectly at waist height.
“A microwave drawer in a kitchen island is the ultimate space-saving move because you’re using volume that was otherwise just empty air under a countertop.”
Cost for island installation: 1,000-1,500 for the unit plus 200-400 for electrical and cabinetry mods. Not cheap. But for a forever kitchen, it’s a beautiful solution.
Hidden Features That Matter in Small Kitchens
When space is tight, every detail counts. Look for these specifics.
Door swing clearance
A drop-down door needs 12-15 inches of clearance in front. In a narrow kitchen, that blocks your entire walkway. A side-swing door needs less clearance and works better in corners.
Compact models with side swing: Hard to find. Most compacts drop down. If clearance is a problem, consider a drawer or over-the-range instead.
Child safety lock
Essential if your microwave is mounted at kid height (like in an island drawer or under-cabinet). Look for a physical lock button, not just a hidden sequence.
Interior light
Small kitchens are often dark. A bright interior light helps you see if your food is bubbling over before you open the door. LED lights are brighter and last longer than old-school bulbs.
Mute option
If your microwave lives near a bedroom (studio apartment life), a mute button is a blessing. Most LG and Panasonic models have this. Check before buying.
Timer-only mode
Lets you use the microwave as a kitchen timer without actually running the microwave. Great for small kitchens where you don’t have space for a separate timer.
FAQ: Small Kitchen Microwave Questions (Answered in 2 Sentences)
What is the smallest microwave that still fits a dinner plate?
Look for 0.7 cubic feet minimum. That fits a standard 10-inch plate. The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is a good example at 0.7 cu ft.
Can I put a microwave under a cabinet if it vents from the top?
No. Top-venting microwaves need open air above them. Mounting one under a cabinet will trap heat and can cause a fire. Look for front-venting or “built-in approved” models.
How much does it cost to install a low-profile over-the-range microwave?
The unit costs 350-500. Professional installation adds 150-250 (electrical and mounting). Total around 500-750. You can DIY if you’re handy and have existing wiring.
Are drawer microwaves reliable?
Yes. Sharp invented the category in 2015 and units regularly last 8-10 years. The drawer mechanism is the most common failure point, but warranties cover it.
What’s the cheapest way to get my microwave off the counter?
Under-cabinet mounting kit for 30-50, plus any lightweight microwave you already own. Just verify your microwave vents from the front or bottom first.
Do low-profile microwaves have less power inside?
No. They still pack 950-1000 watts. The trade-off is interior capacity (1.1 cu ft vs standard 1.6-1.8 cu ft). You lose some space but keep the power.
Can a microwave sit on top of a refrigerator?
Yes, but check the microwave manual first. Most need 3 inches of clearance above. Refrigerators vibrate, so use anti-vibration pads. Also, good luck reaching it if you’re short.
What’s the best microwave for a tiny apartment with no hood vent?
Get a low-profile over-the-range model with recirculating exhaust. It pulls cooking smoke through a charcoal filter and blows clean air back into the room. No external venting required.
Real-Life Small Kitchen Setups That Work
Setup 1: Rental apartment (no modifications allowed)
Buy the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 (0.7 cu ft, 70). Place it on a small rolling cart (30 at IKEA). When you need counter space, roll the cart to the dining area. When you’re done, roll it back.
Setup 2: Owned condo with tiny kitchen
Install the GE JVM6175SKBB low-profile over-the-range (380 + 200 install). Gain back all your counter space and 6 inches of cooktop clearance. Add a folding shelf below the microwave for extra workspace when you need it.
Setup 3: Kitchen remodel with island
Install a Sharp SMD2470ASY drawer microwave in the island (1,050 + 400 install). Keep all upper cabinets for dishes and pantry. The microwave drawer looks like a regular cabinet drawer when closed.
Setup 4: Studio apartment (no separate kitchen)
Mount a Toshiba ML2-EC10SA under a cabinet above your mini-fridge (180 + 35 bracket). The microwave sits over the fridge, not on any counter. Use the counter below for coffee maker and cutting board.
Interesting fact: In Tokyo, where kitchens are famously tiny, over 40% of microwaves are mounted under cabinets or above refrigerators. Counter space is considered too valuable to give up.
Final Tips Before You Buy
Measure three times.
Depth is the sneaky killer. A microwave might be 15 inches deep, but the door adds 2 inches when closed and 10 inches when open. Make sure you have clearance.
Check your plate size.
Grab your largest dinner plate. Measure it. Add 2 inches. That’s the minimum interior width you need. Most 0.7 cu ft models fit 10-11 inch plates.
Read the return policy.
Small microwaves are hard to find in stores. You’ll likely order online. Make sure returns are free because you might guess wrong on size.
Don’t forget ventilation.
A microwave crammed into a tight spot will overheat and shut off mid-cycle. Leave 3 inches on sides and back. Leave 4-6 inches above if top-venting.
Consider a toaster oven instead.
If you mostly reheat leftovers and make toast, a small toaster oven with a microwave setting might serve double duty. The Breville Compact Smart Oven (about 300) microwaves, toasts, and bakes in one small footprint.
References for More Research
- Sharp Home Appliances – Drawer Microwave Guide
- GE Appliances Low-Profile Microwave Specs
- Consumer Reports Small Microwave Ratings (subscription)
- Google Shopping: Under-Cabinet Mounting Kits
- The Spruce Eats: Best Compact Microwaves
What’s your small kitchen microwave setup? Did you mount yours under a cabinet, squeeze it into a corner, or go for a drawer model? Drop your space-saving win in the comments. Someone else is probably staring at their tiny counter right now trying to figure out the same puzzle.
