If you’ve ever struggled to fit a standard microwave in a small kitchen, dorm room, or tight counter nook, you know how frustrating limited space can be when shopping for kitchen appliances. Most full-size models are too deep, leaving you juggling storage, sacrificing counter real estate, or settling for a model that doesn’t meet your cooking needs. Shallow microwave ovens solve this problem, but with dozens of options flooding the market, it’s tough to separate high-quality, reliable picks from overhyped duds. This guide is built to take the guesswork out of your search: we’ve compiled a detailed comparison table of top-rated shallow microwave ovens, plus actionable buying tips to help you find a model that fits your space, budget, and daily cooking routine without unnecessary stress.
Top 10 Shallow Microwave Ovens Compared
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Chefman 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black Microwave |
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BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Stainless Steel Microwave |
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TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu Ft 1000W Stainless Steel Microwave |
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TOSHIBA 0.9 Cu Ft 900W Black Stainless Steel Microwave |
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COMFEE’ 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black ECO Mode Microwave |
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Farberware 0.7 Cu Ft Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave |
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Farberware 0.7 Cu Ft Black Countertop Microwave |
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GE 1.6 Cu Ft 1150 Watt Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave |
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Chefman 1.1 Cu Ft 1000 Watt Black Countertop Microwave |
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Panasonic NN-SN686S 1.2 Cu Ft 1200W Inverter Microwave |
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Check Price |
Table of Contents
- 1. Chefman 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black Microwave
- 2. BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Stainless Steel Microwave
- 3. TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu Ft 1000W Stainless Steel Microwave
- 4. TOSHIBA 0.9 Cu Ft 900W Black Stainless Steel Microwave
- 5. COMFEE’ 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black ECO Mode Microwave
- 6. Farberware 0.7 Cu Ft Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave
- 7. Farberware 0.7 Cu Ft Black Countertop Microwave
- 8. GE 1.6 Cu Ft 1150 Watt Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave
- 9. Chefman 1.1 Cu Ft 1000 Watt Black Countertop Microwave
- 10. Panasonic NN-SN686S 1.2 Cu Ft 1200W Inverter Microwave
Our Top Picks for Shallow Microwave Ovens Reviews
Shallow microwave ovens have become a go-to solution for anyone with limited kitchen space, from apartment dwellers and college students to RV owners and small business break rooms. Unlike bulky standard models, these compact units fit seamlessly into tight nooks without sacrificing cooking power or functionality. In our top 10 list, you’ll find detailed reviews of the highest-rated shallow microwave ovens on the market, with side-by-side comparisons of features, performance, and value to help you pick the perfect fit for your needs.
1. Chefman 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black Microwave
We’ve all been there: fumbling with complicated microwave controls when you’re half-asleep, trying to heat up a late-night snack without waking the whole house. The Chefman 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black Microwave solves that exact frustration with its intuitive one-touch express cook function, so you can heat food in seconds without navigating confusing menus. Its compact 0.7 cubic foot footprint fits perfectly in small apartments, dorm rooms, or office break rooms, and the mute button means no beeping that disturbs roommates or sleeping family members.
This model also includes 10 adjustable power levels, so you can defrost meat evenly without cooking the edges, or melt chocolate gently without burning it. The 6 built-in cooking presets take the guesswork out of common tasks like popping popcorn or reheating leftovers, and the eco mode cuts down on standby energy use to lower your electricity bill. The child safety lock gives parents peace of mind, so little ones can’t accidentally turn it on or open it while it’s hot.
- Compact 0.7 cu ft size fits tight spaces easily
- One-touch express cook for quick, no-fuss heating
- Mute button eliminates annoying beeping sounds
- 10 power levels for precise cooking and defrosting
- Child safety lock for household safety
- Eco mode reduces standby energy waste
- Small interior may not fit large dinner plates
- 700W power is slower than higher-wattage models for big batches
Get the Chefman 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black Microwave now:
2. BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Stainless Steel Microwave
Renters, dorm residents, and anyone setting up a small kitchen will find this BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Stainless Steel Microwave perfectly suited to their needs. Its sleek stainless steel exterior resists fingerprints and smudges, so it stays looking clean even with heavy daily use, and the compact footprint tucks easily into counter corners or above small kitchen sinks. The 700W power is more than enough for reheating meals, making popcorn, or defrosting small portions of meat for weeknight dinners.
The simple control panel has no confusing extra settings, so even people who rarely use microwaves can operate it without hassle. It heats food evenly, with no cold spots in the middle of leftovers, and the easy-to-clean interior wipes down in seconds after spills. For anyone on a budget who wants a reliable, no-frills microwave that won’t take up too much space, this model is a standout pick that delivers consistent performance without extra bells and whistles.
- Sleek fingerprint-resistant stainless steel exterior
- Compact size fits small counter spaces easily
- Simple, intuitive control panel for all users
- Even heating with no cold spots in food
- Affordable price point for budget shoppers
- Easy-to-clean interior surface
- No advanced cooking presets for specialty dishes
- Small interior limits use with oversized cookware
Get the BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Stainless Steel Microwave now:
3. TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu Ft 1000W Stainless Steel Microwave
The 1000W power and roomy 1.2 cubic foot interior set this TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu Ft 1000W Stainless Steel Microwave apart from smaller, lower-wattage countertop models. Unlike smaller microwaves that struggle to heat large portions evenly, this model’s high wattage cooks food quickly and thoroughly, so you don’t have to reheat leftovers multiple times to get them hot all the way through. The spacious interior fits full dinner plates, large casserole dishes, and even bulky frozen meals, making it ideal for families, people who meal prep on Sundays, or anyone who regularly cooks for multiple people. The stainless steel finish matches most modern kitchen decor, and the smooth surface wipes clean easily after messy spills.
It includes a range of convenient presets for common tasks like popping popcorn, cooking potatoes, and reheating beverages, so you don’t have to guess at timing or power levels. The defrost function works particularly well, thawing meat evenly without cooking the outer edges, which is a huge time-saver for busy weeknights. For anyone who needs a reliable workhorse microwave that can handle big cooking jobs without taking up too much counter space, this model delivers exceptional performance for its size.
- Powerful 1000W heating for fast, even cooking
- Spacious 1.2 cu ft interior fits large cookware
- Even heating eliminates cold spots in leftovers
- Convenient presets for common cooking tasks
- Effective defrost function for meat and frozen foods
- Stainless steel finish matches modern kitchen decor
- Larger footprint takes up more counter space than compact models
- Higher wattage uses slightly more electricity than lower-power options
Get the TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu Ft 1000W Stainless Steel Microwave now:
4. TOSHIBA 0.9 Cu Ft 900W Black Stainless Steel Microwave
If you’re tired of cheap-looking plastic microwaves that clash with your modern kitchen decor, or models with ear-piercing beeps that disturb everyone in the house, this TOSHIBA 0.9 Cu Ft 900W Black Stainless Steel Microwave is the perfect solution. Its matte black stainless steel exterior resists fingerprints and smudges far better than standard stainless steel, so it stays looking sleek even with heavy daily use, and the soft, muted beeps alert you when your food is ready without being obnoxious. The 0.9 cubic foot interior is larger than many compact microwaves, fitting full dinner plates and medium-sized casserole dishes with room to spare, while the 900W power heats food evenly without the long wait times of lower-wattage models.
The intuitive control panel has clearly labeled buttons for common tasks, so you don’t have to squint at tiny, hard-to-read labels to reheat leftovers or defrost chicken. It also includes a child safety lock and a mute option for times when you need complete silence, like when a baby is sleeping. For anyone who wants a stylish, functional microwave that doesn’t look out of place in a high-end kitchen, this model offers the perfect balance of design and performance.
- Fingerprint-resistant matte black stainless steel finish
- Muted, non-intrusive alert beeps
- Spacious 0.9 cu ft interior fits standard dinnerware
- 900W power for fast, even heating
- Intuitive, clearly labeled control panel
- Child safety lock and mute function included
- Slightly higher price point than basic plastic microwaves
- No specialized cooking presets for gourmet dishes
Get the TOSHIBA 0.9 Cu Ft 900W Black Stainless Steel Microwave now: (See Also:Microwave Oven Combo Kenmore)
5. COMFEE’ 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black ECO Mode Microwave
Imagine you’re heading out the door for work, and you realize you forgot to unplug your old microwave that’s been sucking power in standby mode all week. That’s exactly the problem the COMFEE’ 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black ECO Mode Microwave is designed to solve. This compact model’s dedicated eco mode cuts standby power use to nearly zero, so you can leave it plugged in without worrying about wasted electricity adding to your monthly bills. Its 0.7 cubic foot size fits perfectly in small dorm rooms, studio apartment kitchens, or office break rooms, and the sleek black exterior blends in with any decor without taking up visual space. The 700W power is more than sufficient for reheating coffee, warming up leftovers, or making a quick bag of popcorn between tasks.
The simple control panel has one-touch buttons for common tasks, so you don’t have to fumble with complicated settings when you’re in a hurry. It heats food evenly, with no cold spots in the middle of meals, and the interior is coated with a non-stick surface that wipes clean in seconds after spills. For anyone who wants a low-cost, energy-efficient microwave that’s perfect for light, everyday use, this model is a practical, no-fuss pick that delivers exactly what you need without extra features you’ll never use.
- Eco mode eliminates standby power waste
- Compact 0.7 cu ft size fits tight spaces
- Sleek black finish matches any kitchen decor
- One-touch buttons for fast, simple operation
- Even heating with no cold spots in food
- Affordable price for budget shoppers
- Small interior can’t fit large dinner plates
- 700W power is slower for cooking large batches of food
Get the COMFEE’ 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black ECO Mode Microwave now:
6. Farberware 0.7 Cu Ft Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave
When you’re shopping for a compact microwave on a tight budget, the Farberware 0.7 Cu Ft Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave punches far above its weight class. For a fraction of the cost of larger, feature-heavy models, you still get reliable 700-watt power that handles everything from reheating leftovers to defrosting small portions of meat without frustrating cold spots. Its compact footprint fits perfectly on cramped countertops, in dorm rooms, or small apartment kitchens where every inch of space counts, and the stainless steel finish looks sleek enough to not clash with your existing decor.
The auto cook settings take the guesswork out of common tasks, so you don’t have to fiddle with timing and power levels for popcorn, frozen dinners, or baked potatoes, and the easy-clean interior wipes down in seconds after messy spills. The child safety lock is a thoughtful addition for households with curious little ones who might try to open the door mid-cycle, and the simple control panel is intuitive enough for teens or older adults who don’t want to navigate complicated menus.
- Extremely affordable for its feature set
- Compact size fits tight spaces easily
- 700-watt power handles most daily cooking tasks
- Auto cook presets simplify common meal prep
- Stainless steel interior is easy to wipe clean
- Child safety lock prevents accidental operation
- No sensor cooking for automatic adjustments
- Small cavity limits cooking large items
Get the Farberware 0.7 Cu Ft Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave now:
7. Farberware 0.7 Cu Ft Black Countertop Microwave
If you’ve ever spent five minutes scrubbing dried tomato sauce off your microwave’s ceiling after a reheating mishap, you’ll appreciate how the Farberware 0.7 Cu Ft Black Countertop Microwave eliminates that tedious chore. Its smooth, non-porous interior surface wipes clean in a single swipe, even after sticky soups or exploding popcorn kernels leave a mess, so you don’t have to deal with caked-on grime building up over time. The matte black finish also hides fingerprints and smudges way better than stainless steel, so it looks presentable even when you haven’t wiped it down in days.
For anyone who hates deep cleaning kitchen appliances, this small design choice makes a huge difference in your daily routine. The 700-watt power is more than enough for reheating leftovers, popping popcorn, or defrosting small portions of meat, no more waiting 20 minutes for a chicken breast to thaw properly. The child safety lock is a nice bonus for families with curious kids, and the compact size tucks easily into corners of countertops that larger microwaves simply can’t fit.
- Wipe-clean interior eliminates tough stain buildup
- Matte black finish resists visible fingerprints
- Compact size fits tight countertop spaces
- Reliable 700-watt power for daily tasks
- Child safety lock for family households
- Affordable price point for budget shoppers
- No advanced sensor cooking features
- Cavity is too small for large dinner plates
Get the Farberware 0.7 Cu Ft Black Countertop Microwave now:
8. GE 1.6 Cu Ft 1150 Watt Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave
The GE 1.6 Cu Ft 1150 Watt Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave is purpose-built for households that regularly cook for multiple people, or anyone who hates waiting for food to heat through in smaller, underpowered units. Its spacious 1.6 cubic foot cavity fits full dinner plates, large casserole dishes, and even tall stock pots without you having to transfer food to smaller containers first, which is a game-changer for meal prep and weeknight family dinners. The powerful 1150-watt output cooks food faster than standard 700-watt models, so you’ll spend less time waiting for your meal to be ready, and the even heat distribution eliminates the cold spots that plague cheaper microwaves.
The stainless steel interior and exterior are durable and easy to wipe down, so it holds up well to heavy daily use, and the large digital display and intuitive control panel make it simple to adjust settings even when you’re juggling multiple cooking tasks. It’s the perfect pick for anyone who needs a workhorse microwave that can keep up with a busy household without sacrificing performance.
- Spacious 1.6 Cu Ft cavity fits large dishes
- Powerful 1150-watt output cooks food quickly
- Even heat distribution eliminates cold spots
- Stainless steel construction is durable and easy to clean
- Intuitive digital controls for simple operation
- Ideal for heavy daily household use
- Larger footprint takes up significant counter space
- Higher price point than compact models
Get the GE 1.6 Cu Ft 1150 Watt Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave now:
9. Chefman 1.1 Cu Ft 1000 Watt Black Countertop Microwave
The single feature that sets the Chefman 1.1 Cu Ft 1000 Watt Black Countertop Microwave apart from nearly every other model on the market is its dedicated mute button, a small but incredibly thoughtful addition for anyone living in an open-concept apartment, a small home with thin walls, or a household with a sleeping baby. Unlike standard microwaves that beep loudly every time you press a button and blare an obnoxious alert when your food is done, this model lets you silence all alerts entirely, so you won’t disturb roommates, family members, or a napping child when you’re grabbing a late-night snack.
Beyond that standout feature, it still delivers solid performance with 1000 watts of power and 10 adjustable power levels, so you can gently melt chocolate without burning it or cook a full meal in record time. The 6 one-touch cooking presets make common tasks like reheating pizza, popping popcorn, or cooking baked potatoes effortless, and the eco mode automatically cuts power to the display and standby functions when not in use to save energy. The 1.1 cubic foot cavity is large enough for most standard dinner plates, and the child safety lock adds extra peace of mind for families. (See Also:Ge Wall Mount Microwave)
- Dedicated mute button eliminates disruptive beeping
- 1000-watt power cooks food quickly and evenly
- 10 power levels for precise cooking control
- 6 one-touch presets simplify common tasks
- Eco mode reduces standby energy waste
- Spacious 1.1 Cu Ft cavity fits standard plates
- No sensor cooking for automatic adjustments
- Control panel labels can wear off over time
Get the Chefman 1.1 Cu Ft 1000 Watt Black Countertop Microwave now:
10. Panasonic NN-SN686S 1.2 Cu Ft 1200W Inverter Microwave
If you’ve ever taken a bite of microwave-reheated soup only to find the edges boiling hot and the center still ice cold, you know the biggest frustration of standard microwaves: uneven heat distribution. The Panasonic NN-SN686S 1.2 Cu Ft 1200W Inverter Microwave solves this problem entirely with its proprietary Inverter Technology, which delivers steady, linear power instead of the on-and-off pulsing that cheaper models use, so every bite of your food is heated evenly from edge to center. The built-in Genius Sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on the moisture content of your food, so you never have to guess at timings for leftovers, frozen dinners, or fresh vegetables, and it even prevents overcooking so your food doesn’t come out rubbery or dried out.
The 1.2 cubic foot stainless steel interior is spacious enough for large plates and casserole dishes, and the sleek, low-profile design works as both a countertop unit and a built-in option for small kitchen renovations. The smooth touch control panel is easy to wipe clean, and the child safety lock keeps little ones from operating it unsupervised. It’s a premium pick for anyone who prioritizes perfectly cooked food and is willing to invest in a long-lasting, high-performance appliance.
- Inverter Technology delivers even, consistent heating
- Genius Sensor automatically adjusts cook time and power
- 1200-watt output cooks food quickly
- Spacious 1.2 Cu Ft cavity fits large dishes
- Sleek stainless steel design works as countertop or built-in
- Easy-clean interior resists stains and buildup
- Higher price point than standard microwaves
- Control panel can be overly sensitive to touch
Get the Panasonic NN-SN686S 1.2 Cu Ft 1200W Inverter Microwave now:
Buyer Guide for Shallow Microwave Ovens
1. What Is a shallow microwave ovens?
Shallow microwave ovens are compact cooking appliances built with a reduced depth compared to standard full-size models, usually measuring 12 to 18 inches deep instead of the typical 20+ inches. They’re designed to fit into tight counter spaces, small kitchen nooks, dorm rooms, RVs, and office break rooms where a traditional microwave would take up too much room. These units still deliver all core microwave functionality, including reheating leftovers, defrosting frozen foods, and cooking quick meals, making them ideal for single users, small households, or anyone with limited kitchen real estate who doesn’t want to sacrifice cooking convenience.
2. Key Features That Actually Matter
When shopping for shallow microwave ovens, not all features are worth prioritizing. Focus on the factors that will have the biggest impact on your daily use and long-term satisfaction, rather than getting distracted by unnecessary bells and whistles.
- Performance in everyday scenarios: Prioritize consistent wattage between 700 and 1200 watts for even heating without cold spots, plus multiple power levels for defrosting, melting, and reheating delicate foods.
- Build quality and durability: Look for sturdy exteriors (stainless steel or high-grade plastic), solid door hinges, and smooth, easy-to-clean interiors that hold up to regular use better than flimsy low-cost models.
- Ease of setup and maintenance: Opt for intuitive control panels, removable turntables, and non-stick interior coatings that make spill cleanup quick. Avoid units with overly complicated, hard-to-navigate digital interfaces.
- Size, capacity, and fit: Measure your available space first, then check exterior dimensions, door swing clearance, and interior capacity (0.7 to 1.2 cubic feet for most shallow models) to ensure a proper fit.
- Value at different budgets: Basic reliable models cost under $100, mid-range units ($100 to $200) add features like sensor cooking, and premium options ($200+) offer higher wattage and advanced functionality for frequent users.
- Brand reliability and warranty: Choose reputable brands that offer at least a one-year limited warranty, a strong indicator of long-term reliability and access to customer support for repairs.
- Compatibility with existing setups: If planning under-cabinet or wall mounting, confirm the unit includes mounting hardware and has the correct venting configuration for your space.
3. How to Choose the Right shallow microwave ovens
Start by assessing your typical usage: if you only need the microwave for occasional reheating, a basic budget model will suffice. If you cook frequently, defrost large items, or want extra features like convection cooking, opt for a mid-range or premium unit with higher wattage. Match your budget to your needs—don’t overspend on unused features, but avoid flimsy models that will need early replacement. As you browse our top 10 list, filter for units that fit your space, usage habits, and performance expectations to narrow down your options.
4. Common Buyer Mistakes to Avoid
Many first-time buyers of shallow microwave ovens make avoidable errors that lead to wasted money and frustration. Keep these common pitfalls in mind to make a smarter purchase.
- Skipping space measurements: Failing to measure counter space, door swing, and cabinet clearance can lead to buying a unit that doesn’t fit, so always double-check dimensions before purchasing.
- Prioritizing style over performance: A trendy design won’t matter if the unit heats unevenly or breaks down quickly, so focus on performance and durability first before considering looks.
- Ignoring interior capacity: A shallow exterior doesn’t always mean a small interior, but a too-small capacity will prevent you from heating large dishes or multiple items at once, which is a hassle for multi-person households.
- Overlooking cleaning requirements: Units with porous interiors, hard-to-reach corners, or non-removable turntables are a pain to clean and develop grime over time. Choose models with smooth, non-stick interiors and removable parts for easy maintenance.
- Skipping warranty checks: No-name models with no warranty leave you on the hook for repair or replacement costs if the unit fails, so always confirm warranty terms before buying.
Questions About Shallow Microwave Ovens? We Have Answers
Are shallow microwave ovens as powerful as standard models?
Most shallow microwave ovens offer 700 to 1200 watts of power, which matches many standard models. Higher-wattage units heat food faster and more evenly, while lower-wattage options work well for basic reheating and light cooking tasks. (See Also:Microwave Oven Drawer)
Can I mount a shallow microwave under my cabinets?
Many shallow models are designed for under-cabinet mounting, but you’ll need to confirm the unit includes mounting hardware and fits your cabinet clearance dimensions. Always check product specifications before purchasing to ensure compatibility with your installation plans.
Will a shallow microwave fit my large dinner plates?
Most shallow models have 0.7 to 1.2 cubic feet of interior capacity, which fits standard 10-inch dinner plates and most medium cookware. If you regularly heat large dishes or multiple items at once, opt for a model with a larger interior.
How long do shallow microwave ovens typically last?
With proper care, a quality shallow microwave oven will last 7 to 10 years on average. Low-cost no-name models may have a shorter lifespan, while units from reputable brands with good warranty coverage tend to hold up longer with daily use.
Are shallow microwave ovens energy efficient for home use?
Most modern shallow microwave ovens are ENERGY STAR certified, meaning they use less electricity than older standard models. Even non-certified units typically consume less power than full-size microwaves, making them a cost-effective choice for small spaces and light use.
Do shallow microwaves work with all microwave-safe cookware?
Yes, shallow microwave ovens work with all standard microwave-safe glass, ceramic, plastic, and paper cookware, just like full-size models. Always confirm your cookware is labeled microwave-safe to avoid damaging the unit or your dishes.
Final Verdict
Shallow microwave ovens are a practical, space-saving solution for anyone with limited kitchen real estate who still wants reliable cooking performance. By prioritizing your specific needs, measuring your space carefully, and avoiding common buyer mistakes, you can find a high-quality unit that fits your budget and lifestyle. Use our top 10 list and buyer’s guide to narrow down your options, and you’ll be enjoying quick, convenient meals in no time with a microwave that fits your space perfectly.