Top-Rated Shallow Microwave Depth Compared – Performance & Value

1. Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Microwave

Anyone who’s ever been startled by a loudly slamming microwave door or struggled to fit a bulky appliance on a cramped dorm room counter will instantly appreciate this Breville model. Unlike standard microwaves that clatter shut and hog precious counter real estate, the Compact Wave is designed specifically for small living spaces, with a slim profile that tucks neatly into tight corners without sacrificing power. The signature soft-close door glides shut silently, eliminating the annoying bang that echoes through small apartments, and the 0.7 cubic foot interior is surprisingly roomy for reheating leftovers, making popcorn, or heating small meals. It’s also Energy Star certified, so it uses less electricity than older, bulkier models, which is a nice perk for eco-conscious users or anyone looking to cut down on utility bills.

Performance doesn’t take a backseat to its compact size, either. The 1100-watt output heats food evenly without cold spots, and the 10 power levels let you adjust heat for delicate tasks like melting chocolate or high-power cooking for full meals. The digital control panel is straightforward, with preset buttons for common tasks like popcorn, baked potato, and auto-defrost that take the guesswork out of cooking. The stainless steel interior is also far easier to wipe down than the flaky painted interiors of cheaper models, which is a huge plus for anyone who hates scrubbing stuck-on food.

• Silent soft-close door prevents loud slamming
• Compact footprint fits tight counter spaces
• 1100W power ensures fast, even heating
• Stainless steel interior wipes clean easily
• Simple intuitive control panel
• Auto-defrost settings work reliably

• Higher price point than basic compact microwaves
• Smaller capacity not ideal for large family meals

2. Sharp SMC0962KS 0.9 Cu Ft 900W Countertop Microwave

This Sharp microwave is tailor-made for singles, couples, or small families who want a reliable, no-fuss appliance that handles everyday reheating and cooking tasks without overwhelming, unnecessary features. Unlike bulky, high-end models packed with dozens of confusing presets, the SMC0962KS strips away the extra clutter to focus on core functionality, making it perfect for anyone who just wants their food heated quickly and evenly without a learning curve. The 0.9 cubic foot interior is large enough to fit full dinner plates, leftover containers, and even small casserole dishes, so you won’t have to split meals into batches when heating for two.

The 900-watt output performs consistently across all uses, from popping microwave popcorn without burnt kernels to reheating soups and sauces without cold spots in the center. The stainless steel exterior not only looks sleek on any countertop but also resists fingerprints and smudges, so it stays looking clean with minimal wiping. The straightforward control panel has large, easy-to-press buttons for common tasks, plus a handy child lock that prevents curious toddlers from accidentally turning the microwave on, a small but valuable feature for families. The removable glass turntable is also easy to take out and wash in the dishwasher, making cleanup after messy spills a breeze.

• 0.9 cu ft capacity fits most plates and bowls
• 900W power delivers consistent, even heating
• Stainless steel exterior resists fingerprints and smudges
• Simple intuitive control panel with no unnecessary settings
• Built-in child lock for family safety
• Turntable ensures food heats evenly
• Affordable price for its build quality

• No advanced preset cooking modes
• Slightly louder than premium compact models

3. BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu Ft 900W Countertop Microwave

The standout feature that sets this BLACK+DECKER microwave apart from other budget-friendly options is its convenient memory function, which lets you save your most used heating settings so you don’t have to punch in the same time and power level every single day. Paired with the easy one-touch start that begins heating with a single press of the 1-minute button, it eliminates the tiny, repetitive frustrations that make using a microwave feel like a chore. The 0.9 cubic foot capacity is ideal for small households, and the 900-watt power heats food evenly without cold spots, even for larger portions.

The 6 auto menus cover the most common cooking tasks, from popcorn and frozen vegetables to baked potatoes and pizza, so you don’t have to guess at timing for these staples. The 10 adjustable power levels give you full control for delicate tasks like melting butter or defrosting meat without cooking the edges, and the built-in child lock keeps little ones from accidentally turning the appliance on when you’re not looking. The digital panel is backlit, so it’s easy to read even in low light, and the stainless steel interior wipes clean in seconds after messy spills or splatters. It’s a fantastic pick for anyone who wants a functional, low-fuss microwave without paying premium prices for extra features they’ll never use.

• Memory function saves custom heating settings for repeated use
• One-touch 1-minute start for quick reheating
• 6 auto menus cover common cooking tasks
• 10 power levels for precise cooking control
• Built-in child lock for family safety
• Affordable price point for full feature set
• Easy-to-clean stainless steel interior

• Auto menus can be slightly imprecise for some foods
• Turntable can be noisy during operation

4. GE Profile 1.1 Cu Ft 800W Countertop Microwave

If you’re tired of microwaves that roar so loud they drown out conversation, or that have tiny interiors that can’t fit full dinner plates, this GE Profile model is a refreshing change. Unlike standard countertop microwaves that prioritize cheap parts over user experience, it focuses on eliminating the small, daily annoyances that make using a microwave frustrating, from its near-silent operation to its extra-large 1.1 cubic foot interior that fits even oversized serving platters. The 800-watt power heats food evenly, and the stainless steel exterior resists smudges and grease far better than cheaper plastic models.

The digital control panel is intuitive, with clearly labeled buttons for common tasks and a handy sensor cooking mode that automatically adjusts time and power based on the moisture level of your food, so you never end up with dried-out leftovers or undercooked frozen meals. The soft-close door is another standout feature, eliminating the loud bang of standard microwave doors that echo through open-plan homes. The interior is coated in a non-stick material that wipes clean in seconds, even after heating saucy dishes or microwave popcorn that leaves greasy residue. It’s an excellent pick for busy families, people who entertain often, or anyone who wants a microwave that works quietly and reliably without constant tinkering.

• Near-silent operation doesn’t disrupt conversation
• 1.1 cu ft capacity fits full dinner plates and platters
• Sensor cooking mode adjusts heat automatically for perfect results
• Soft-close door eliminates loud slamming
• Stainless steel exterior resists smudges and grease
• Non-stick interior wipes clean effortlessly
• Reliable 800W power for even heating

• Larger footprint takes up more counter space
• Higher price than basic countertop models

5. GE 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave

Imagine a college student living in a cramped dorm room, trying to heat up a late-night bowl of mac and cheese after a long study session, only to realize their tiny counter space can’t fit a standard bulky microwave. This compact GE model is the perfect solution for exactly that scenario, with a slim 0.7 cubic foot footprint that tucks easily into tiny kitchens, dorm rooms, RVs, or office break rooms without taking up precious real estate. The 700-watt power is more than enough for everyday reheating tasks, and the stainless steel finish looks sleek even in small, multipurpose spaces.

The simple control panel has large, easy-to-press buttons for common tasks like popcorn, defrost, and one-touch start, so you don’t have to fumble with complicated settings when you’re in a hurry. The child lock is a nice bonus for shared spaces like office break rooms or family homes with young kids, preventing accidental operation. The removable glass turntable is dishwasher safe, making cleanup after messy spills or splatters quick and painless. While it’s not powerful enough for cooking full, large meals from scratch, it handles all the everyday tasks most people use a microwave for, at a price point that’s hard to beat for its build quality and brand reliability.

• Ultra-compact footprint fits tiny spaces like dorms and RVs
• Affordable price for a trusted brand name
• 700W power handles everyday reheating tasks well
• Stainless steel finish resists fingerprints and smudges
• One-touch start for quick, hassle-free heating
• Built-in child lock for shared spaces
• Dishwasher-safe turntable for easy cleanup

• Smaller capacity not suitable for large family meals
• Lower wattage means longer heating times for frozen foods

6. Midea Over-the-Range 1.2 Cu.Ft 1000W Stainless Steel Microwave

When you’re shopping for an over-the-range microwave, most models with 1.2 cubic feet of space and 1000 watts of power carry a steep premium, but the Midea option cuts that cost drastically without skimping on core functionality. For renters, first-time homeowners, or anyone replacing a broken over-the-range unit without blowing their renovation budget, this model offers all the basics you need for daily heating, defrosting, and light cooking tasks.

Its stainless steel finish blends seamlessly with most kitchen appliance suites, and the 1.2 cu.ft cavity fits full dinner plates, large bowls of leftovers, and even medium-sized casserole dishes without crowding. The 1000-watt output heats food evenly and quickly, matching the performance of far more expensive brands for most common use cases, and the built-in venting system handles light stovetop cooking odors effectively for small to medium kitchens.

It’s a no-frills pick that prioritizes reliable performance over extra smart features, making it perfect for people who just want a workhorse microwave without paying for bells and whistles they’ll never use. Installation is straightforward for anyone with basic DIY skills, and the compact depth fits most standard over-the-range mounting spaces without requiring cabinet modifications.

• 1.2 cu.ft capacity fits standard dinnerware and large portions
• 1000W power delivers fast, even heating for most tasks
• Stainless steel finish matches common kitchen appliance aesthetics
• Over-the-range design saves valuable countertop space
• Built-in venting system reduces stovetop cooking odors
• Priced significantly lower than competing over-the-range models

• Lacks advanced smart features and preset cooking programs
• Venting is not powerful enough for heavy, greasy stovetop cooking

7. GE Compact 0.7 Cu.Ft 700W Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave

If you’ve ever tried to squeeze a full-size microwave onto a tiny apartment counter, only to find it takes up half your prep space and still leaves cold spots in your leftovers, the GE compact countertop model solves that exact headache. Designed specifically for small kitchens, dorm rooms, and tight apartment layouts, this 0.7 cubic foot unit has a slim footprint that tucks easily into corners or on top of small carts without dominating your available workspace.

The 700-watt power output is more than sufficient for reheating single servings, popping microwave popcorn, making quick oatmeal, or defrosting small cuts of meat, and the 6 auto cooking settings take the guesswork out of common tasks so you don’t have to fiddle with time and temperature dials for every meal. Its stainless steel exterior is easy to wipe down after messy spills, and the compact interior fits standard dinner plates and microwave-safe bowls without issue, making it a practical pick for solo cooks, students, or anyone with limited kitchen real estate.

• Ultra-compact footprint fits tiny countertops and dorm rooms
• 6 auto cooking settings simplify common meal prep tasks
• Stainless steel finish resists smudges and is easy to clean
• 700W power handles reheating, defrosting, and light cooking efficiently
• Lightweight design makes it easy to move or store when not in use
• Affordable price point fits tight budgets for small space living

• 0.7 cu.ft capacity is too small for large family portions or big casserole dishes
• Lacks advanced features like sensor cooking or inverter technology

8. Ishigaki Sangyo Shallow Square Ceramic Microwave Cooking Dish

If you’re tired of mushy, unevenly cooked microwave meals, splattered microwave interiors, and soggy leftovers that lose their texture after reheating, the Ishigaki Sangyo shallow ceramic cooking dish is made specifically for you. This square, shallow dish is ideal for anyone who regularly uses their microwave for more than just reheating coffee – from meal prepping single servings of roasted vegetables and grains, to steaming fish, to melting butter and chocolate without burning, to crisping up leftover pizza or fries without making them soggy.

The included silicone lid traps steam to keep food moist during cooking, while the shallow depth allows excess moisture to escape so foods crisp up nicely instead of turning to mush, a common problem with deep, covered microwave dishes. It’s dishwasher safe for quick cleanup, and the compact size fits easily in most standard microwave cavities, making it a great pick for solo cooks, busy professionals who want quick, healthy microwave meals, and anyone who hates scrubbing food splatter off their microwave walls after every use.

• Shallow design crisps food instead of making it soggy
• Included silicone lid traps steam for moist, evenly cooked results
• Dishwasher safe for effortless cleanup
• Ceramic construction heats evenly to avoid hot spots
• Square shape fits standard microwave cavities without extra space
• Compact size is perfect for single servings and small meal prep batches

• Too small for cooking large family-sized portions
• Ceramic can chip if dropped or handled roughly

9. Chefman 0.7 Cu.Ft 700W Countertop Microwave with Mute Button

The single feature that sets the Chefman compact countertop microwave apart from every other small microwave on the market is its dedicated mute button, a small but game-changing addition for anyone who lives in a small apartment, has a sleeping child, or works from home and can’t afford the loud beeping of a standard microwave interrupting meetings or nap time. This 0.7 cubic foot, 700-watt model is packed with thoughtful, user-centric features that make daily use far more convenient, starting with that silent operation option that lets you heat food without alerting everyone in the house. (See Also:Navy Blue Microwave Oven)

It also includes a child safety lock to prevent accidental operation by curious toddlers, 10 adjustable power levels for precise cooking of everything from delicate melted chocolate to hearty frozen dinners, and 6 one-touch cooking presets for popcorn, beverages, potatoes, and more that eliminate the need to guess at cook times. The eco mode reduces standby power consumption to save energy and lower utility bills, and the compact black exterior fits seamlessly on any countertop without clashing with your kitchen decor. It’s a fantastic pick for dorm rooms, small apartments, and shared office kitchens where quiet operation and safety are top priorities.

• Dedicated mute button eliminates loud beeping for quiet spaces
• Child safety lock prevents accidental operation by young kids
• 10 power levels offer precise control for delicate and hearty cooking tasks
• 6 one-touch presets simplify common cooking and reheating jobs
• Eco mode reduces standby energy use to save on utility costs
• Compact footprint fits easily on small countertops and dorm desks

• 0.7 cu.ft capacity is too small for large portions or big dishes
• Lacks sensor cooking to automatically adjust time and power

10. BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu.Ft 700W Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave

If you’ve ever owned a cheap countertop microwave with a flimsy plastic exterior that scratches after a week of use, stains permanently from spaghetti sauce splatters, and feels like it’s going to fall apart if you bump it while moving it, the BLACK+DECKER 0.7 cubic foot model eliminates that exact frustration with its durable, smudge-resistant stainless steel construction. This compact 700-watt microwave is designed for small spaces like dorm rooms, studio apartments, and office break rooms, and its solid stainless steel body wipes clean in seconds with no harsh scrubbing needed, even after the messiest microwave meals.

The 0.7 cu.ft interior fits standard dinner plates, microwave-safe bowls, and even small casserole dishes, and the 700-watt power output heats food evenly and quickly for reheating leftovers, making popcorn, and defrosting small items. It has simple, intuitive dial controls that are easy for anyone to operate, even if you’re not tech-savvy, and the compact depth fits easily on crowded countertops without taking up too much valuable prep space. It’s a no-nonsense, reliable pick for anyone who wants a low-maintenance microwave that can stand up to daily use without showing wear and tear.

• Durable stainless steel exterior resists scratches and smudges
• Easy to wipe clean after messy spills and splatters
• 700W power delivers fast, even heating for common tasks
• Compact 0.7 cu.ft capacity fits standard dinnerware
• Simple dial controls are intuitive for all users
• Affordable price point fits tight budgets

• Lacks advanced cooking presets and smart features
• Venting is minimal, so it can retain cooking odors over time