Small spaces such as a dorm room, a studio, an RV or an office shelf call for a microwave that is light, compact and simple to use. A smaller cavity helps the footprint but limits what you can reheat.
The six microwaves below are established compact models. We have not used them ourselves, so confirm the outside dimensions, the interior size and the power details on the current listing before you buy. For an RV or a boat, check whether the power supply can handle a microwave at all.
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What to Look For
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Weight | A lighter unit is easier to carry up stairs or move for storage |
| Outside width | Measure the shelf and the doorway |
| Power draw | Smaller power ratings suit generators and inverters, so check the listing |
| Controls | Large push buttons or a dial are simple to use |
| Door | A latch that stays shut on the move matters in a vehicle |
| Interior size | Check that the turntable fits your usual plate or bowl |
| Noise | A quieter unit is kinder in a shared room |
Specs at a Glance
| Microwave | Size class | Best place | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Danby DMW07A2BDB | About 0.7 cubic feet | Dorm or studio | Simple dial or digital controls |
| Magic Chef MCD770CB | About 0.7 cubic feet | Dorm or office | Mechanical dial |
| Commercial Chef 0.7 cu ft | About 0.7 cubic feet | Dorm or camp kitchen | Plain controls |
| BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 | About 0.7 cubic feet | Studio or office | Digital keypad |
| Farberware FMO07AHTBKB | About 0.7 cubic feet | Dorm or tiny flat | Push buttons |
| Amazon Basics Microwave | About 0.7 cubic feet | Dorm or desk | Presets |
The 6 Best Microwaves for Small Spaces
1. Danby DMW07A2BDB
A compact Danby microwave in the 0.7 cubic foot class that suits dorms and small apartments. Check the listing for the control type on your version.
Suits: a dorm room. Strengths: a small body from a known maker. Weaknesses: a small cavity. Skip it if you cook for several people.
View Danby DMW07A2BDB on Amazon
2. Magic Chef MCD770CB
A compact Magic Chef model in the 0.7 cubic foot class with simple controls. A long-running choice for small kitchens and offices.
Suits: a simple shared space. Strengths: straightforward operation. Weaknesses: a basic feature list. Skip it if you want sensor cooking.
View Magic Chef MCD770CB on Amazon
3. Commercial Chef 0.7 cu ft microwave
A small countertop microwave sold under the Commercial Chef name, in the 0.7 cubic foot class. Check the listing for the control layout and colour.
Suits: a first apartment. Strengths: a small footprint and low weight. Weaknesses: model details differ across versions. Skip it if you want a specific brand history.
View Commercial Chef 0.7 cu ft microwave on Amazon
4. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7
A small BLACK+DECKER microwave in the 0.7 cubic foot class with a digital keypad and a short list of preset functions.
Suits: a studio or an office. Strengths: a light and plain design. Weaknesses: limited room inside. Skip it if your plates are wide.
View BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 on Amazon
5. Farberware FMO07AHTBKB
A small Farberware Classic microwave in the 0.7 cubic foot class with push-button controls and a tidy look.
Suits: a tiny kitchen. Strengths: a simple operation. Weaknesses: the cavity is compact. Skip it if you reheat large casserole dishes.
View Farberware FMO07AHTBKB on Amazon
6. Amazon Basics Microwave
A compact microwave from Amazon’s own brand in the 0.7 cubic foot class, with digital controls and a set of preset options.
Suits: a desk-side or dorm setup. Strengths: a light, plain design. Weaknesses: a small cavity. Skip it if you want premium features.
View Amazon Basics Microwave on Amazon
Care and Setup
- Check the power rating against your outlet or generator before you plug in.
- Secure the turntable if the unit travels in a vehicle.
- Leave airflow space around the vents.
- Wipe splatter promptly to keep small interiors fresh.
- Use a cover for soups and sauces.
- Keep the door seal clean so the unit closes fully.
- Store the unit with the cord wrapped loosely, not tightly bent.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Using the unit on a surface that is not level or stable.
- Ignoring the power supply in an RV.
- Blocking the vents on a crowded shelf.
- Buying too small for the dishes you own.
- Leaving the turntable loose in transit.
- Plugging into a shared extension strip that is already full.
- Running the unit empty, which can damage it.
Microwaves for Small Spaces FAQ
How small is a small microwave?
Small models are typically around 0.7 cubic feet. That size fits a mug, a bowl and many plates.
Can I use one in an RV?
Possibly, if your power system supports it. Check the wattage and the manufacturer’s guidance.
Do small models heat evenly?
Most do well with covers and stirring, as with any microwave.
Are dials better than keypads?
Dials are simple and hard to break, while keypads add presets. Choose based on how you cook.
The Short Version
For a dorm, the Danby DMW07A2BDB. For a shared nook, the Magic Chef MCD770CB. For a first flat, the Commercial Chef. For a studio, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7. For a tidy classic, the Farberware. For a low-fuss start, the Amazon Basics.