Comparison: Best Small Microwave Uk (Updated | Feb 3rd)

For limited countertop space, a microwave between 0.7 cu ft and 1.0 cu ft usually provides enough room for most meals while staying compact. Models like the Chefman 0.7 cu ft (700 W) and the Chefman 0.9 cu ft (900 W) fit easily on narrow benches. If you occasionally need larger dishes, the Toshiba EM131A5C‑BS offers 1.2 cu ft but takes a bit more floor space.

Higher wattage (900‑1000 W) cooks food faster and reduces the need to use multiple power‑level steps, which is useful for reheating or defrosting quickly. However, lower‑wattage units (700 W) often include more granular power‑level options, letting you melt butter or gently warm delicate foods. Choose a model like the Toshiba ML‑EM09PA (900 W) for balanced speed and flexibility, or the Chefman 700 W if you prefer finer power control.

Two‑step child locks are the gold standard, requiring the user to press a combination of buttons before the door can open. The GE Countertop models (1.1 cu ft 950 W and 2.0 cu ft 1200 W) and the Toshiba ML‑EM09PA both list a two‑step lock, while the Chefman units provide a single‑step lock on the handle. For the highest safety, opt for a GE model that also lets you disable the lock entirely when not needed.

Presets simplify cooking common items such as popcorn, pizza, or vegetables, saving you time setting time‑and‑power manually. Most budget models, including the Chefman and Toshiba ML‑EM09PA, already include six to ten presets at no extra cost. Premium models like the GE 950 W microwave add more advanced auto‑cook functions, but the convenience gain is modest for everyday use.

Inverter technology delivers continuous, variable power, which results in more even heating and better texture, especially for delicate foods. The Toshiba ML‑EM45PIT with 1250 W inverter power cooks food faster and reduces hot spots compared with conventional turn‑on/turn‑off microwaves. If you value consistent results for sauces or defrosting, an inverter model is a worthwhile upgrade.

A 700 W unit like the Chefman 0.7 cu ft is typically cheaper and uses less electricity, making it suitable for light reheating and small meals. A 1000 W model such as the Toshiba EM131A5C‑BS offers quicker cooking, better defrost performance, and often includes sensor cooking, justifying a higher price for busy households. Evaluate how often you need rapid cooking versus occasional use to decide which offers the best value.

The Chefman 0.9 cu ft (900 W) strikes a sweet spot, providing a slightly larger interior than the 0.7 cu ft version while still fitting comfortably on a standard UK countertop. The Toshiba EM131A5C‑BS offers the largest interior (1.2 cu ft) but its dimensions are noticeably bigger. For most small‑kitchen scenarios, the 0.9 cu ft Chefman model delivers the most usable space without crowding the worktop.

A larger turntable can accommodate plates and pizza slices, reducing the need to rearrange food for even heating. Models like the Toshiba EM131A5C‑BS feature a 12.4‑inch turntable, while the Chefman 0.7 cu ft uses a more modest 10‑inch turntable, which is sufficient for single‑serve plates. If you often cook larger dishes, choose a microwave with a turntable of at least 12 inches; otherwise, a smaller turntable saves interior space.