Comparison: Best Mini Microwave For Dorm (Updated | Dec 8th)
Let’s be real—dorm life means tight spaces, tighter budgets, and a serious need for quick meals between classes. That’s where a mini microwave saves the day. But not all compact microwaves are created equal. We’ve tested, compared, and lived with the top contenders to find the **best mini microwave for dorm** living. From popcorn perfection to reheating ramen without a mess, we’ll help you pick the one that fits your space, lifestyle, and late-night snack cravings—without breaking the bank.
- Best for quiet compact power: Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
- Best for full-size mini: Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power
- Best for eco silent cooking: COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
- Best for retro power style: COMFEE CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave with 11 power levels
- Best for pull-handle retro: Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 Retro Microwave Oven
- Best for sensor smart capacity: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
- Best for compact auto menu: TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
- Best for push-button ease: BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
- Best for powerful quiet cooking: Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft.
- Best for even 360° heat: Galanz GLCMKA07RDR-07 Microwave Oven
Product Comparison: Best Mini Microwave For Dorm
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 700W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button.
- MEMORY FUNCTION: Program frequently used countertop microwaves functions into the control panel for one-touch microwave food. All your daily favorites are easy to set up and start microwaving.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally, and you can disable the microwave control panel using the Lock Mode.
- MUTE OPTION: Silence this counter top microwave with the Audio Button, turning off any annoying beeps if you’re trying to stay quiet or not wake up your kids.
- MODERN DESIGN: This microwave countertop design fits in well alongside your other kitchen appliances. Its compact frame and sleek, black finish blend in well with any home décor. Plus, you can save power and disable the display when not in use with Eco Mode.
- EASY TO CLEAN: Don’t worry about grease or scuffs; this black microwave exterior is durable and wipes clean with a damp towel. Additionally, the glass turntable is top-rack dishwasher safe.
- TRUSTED QUALITY: cETL approved with advanced safety technology for long-lasting durability and a 1-year assurance provided by Chefman. 700W/120V-RJ55-7-V2
Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Black
- CONVENIENT MICROWAVE: Prepare quick and easy meals in a snap with our powerful microwave. It packs 700 of output power and features a range of settings for press-and-go speed.
- POWERFUL SETTINGS: This microwave has ten power levels with multi-stage cooking. You can fully customize your cooking with six one-touch options, including popcorn, potato, and pizza. Defrost by weight or by time settings to make quick work of any task.
- PERFECT SIZE: Measuring 0.7 cu ft, this microwave is the ideal small-space solution that offers full-sized cooking in a compact space. It features an easy-to-clean interior and exterior and is perfect for the home or office.
- ALL YOU NEED: This microwave has a clear LED display with a kitchen timer and clock that lets you easily keep track of time. Easy-to-view interior lighting lets you keep an eye on your dish, and a child safety lock adds additional security.
- FARBERWARE: From weeknight favorites to family feasts they’ll never forget, Farberware helps today’s families craft the meals that make memories and bring everyone together.
COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black
- Mute function, settings, clock, kitchen timer, child safety lock, easy auto-cook functions: Popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen veggie, beverage, reheat
- One touch express cooking function with 1-6 minutes and plus30 seconds functions, and two defrost settings (by weight or by time)
- Energy Saving Eco Mode: Minimizing 50% standby power by turning on ECO mode
- Bright digital display, easy-to-read control panel, interior light and 10 inch glass turntable
- One year limited warranty. Express cooking options & silent mode
COMFEE CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave with 11 power levels, Fast Multi-stage Cooking, Turntable Reset Function Kitchen Timer, Speedy Cooking， Weight/Time Defrost, Memory function, Children Lock, 700W
- Two-step Child Lock Feature: To protect the younger and prevent misuse, all manufacturers are asked to follow the new safety standard and add this 2-step child lock function.
- Stylish appearance, compact size: 0.7 cubic-foot capacity, 700 watts, and 11 power levels
- Settings, clock, kitchen timer, child safety lock, easy auto-cook functions: Popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage, reheat
- One touch express cooking function with 1-6 minutes and 30 seconds functions, and two defrost settings (by weight or by time)
- Bright digital display, easy-to-read control panel, interior light, and 10-inch glass turntable
- Internal dimensions: 12” x 11.9” x 8” (W x D x H)/ Included components: 1 microwave oven, 1 manual instruction book
Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 Retro Microwave Oven, LED Lighting, Pull Handle Design, Child Lock, Bebop Blue, 0.7 cu ft
- 700W With 6 Variable Power Levels Galanz 0.7 Cu.Ft, 700 Watts Microwave Oven With Lighting Pull Handle, Microwave Oven Offers Six Power Level To Cook. It Is Easy To Defrost.
- Interior Light & Child Lock Interior Light For Checking The Status Without Having To Open The Doors. The Safety Lock Prevents Unsupervised Operation By Children. Lock The Control Panel Using The Child Safety Lock Option To Prevent Accidental Use Or Access By Children.
- Defrost & Led Display For All Your Frozen Foods, Defrost By Time Or Weight So You Can Enjoy More Flavorful Foods. Easy-To-Read Led Display Clearly Shows Remaining Cooking Time. And When The Cooking Procedure Have Finished, Three Beeps Sound Will Be Heard.
- 360°Rotating Evenly Heating 360° Heating And Rotation Of Glass Turntable During Operation Helps Cook Food More Evenly And Then Improves The Cooking Efficiency. So You Will Enjoy Fresh And Delicious Food Within A Short Time.
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4″ Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior Black Color 1000W
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass turntable.
- Smart Sensor Technology for Optimal Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. Say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked dishes.
- 6 Preset Menus: This countertop microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like pizza, veggle, sensor reheat and more.
- 10 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
- Mute Mode: If yout want to mute the buzzer of the microwave, please long press on the button “8” For 3-5 seconds. The buzzer is automatically switched off after a long beep.
TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, Perfect for Apartments & Dorms, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Stainless Steel
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- Microwave output power 900 watts, input power 1400 watts. External dimensions 18.7x 14.7x 10.7 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 12.1 x 10.9 x 7.6 inches (WxDxH); includes 10.6-inch glass turntable.
- 6 Preset Menus: This compact microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potato and more.
- 11 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
- Mute Mode: If you wish to silence the beeping sound that signals the end of cooking, please long press on the button “8” For 3-5 seconds. The buzzer is automatically switched off after a long beep.
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.Voltage : 110 Volts.Rated Input Power(Microwave):1050W
- 700 Watts with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 Seconds Express Cooking
- Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 10” glass turntable
- Push-button door release for easy access
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”
- UL approved. One year limited
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft., 900 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 900W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button.
- MEMORY FUNCTION: Program frequently used countertop microwaves functions into the control panel for one-touch microwave food. All your daily favorites are easy to set up and start microwaving.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally, and you can disable the microwave control panel using the Lock Mode.
- MUTE OPTION: Silence this counter top microwave with the Audio Button, turning off any annoying beeps if you’re trying to stay quiet or not wake up your kids.
- MODERN DESIGN: This microwave countertop design fits in alongside your other kitchen appliances. Its compact frame and sleek, black finish blend in well with any home décor. Plus, you can save power and disable the display when not in use with Eco Mode.
- EASY TO CLEAN: Don’t worry about grease or scuffs; this black microwave exterior is durable and wipes clean with a damp towel. Additionally, the glass turntable is top-rack dishwasher safe.
- TRUSTED QUALITY: cETL approved with advanced safety technology for long-lasting durability and a 1-year assurance provided by Chefman. 900W/120V-RJ55-9-V2
Galanz GLCMKA07RDR-07 Microwave Oven, LED Lighting, Pull Handle Design, Child Lock,Retro Red, 0.7 Cu.Ft
- 700W With 6 Variable Power Levels : Galanz 0.7 Cu.Ft, 700 Watts Microwave Oven With Lighting Pull Handle, Microwave Oven Offers Six Power Level To Cook. It Is Easy To Defrost
- Defrost & Led Display :For All Your Frozen Foods, Defrost By Time Or Weight So You Can Enjoy More Flavorful Foods. Easy-To-Read Led Display Clearly Shows Remaining Cooking Time. And When The Cooking Procedure Have Finished, Three Beeps Sound Will Be Heard
- 360°Rotating Evenly Heating :360° Heating And Rotation Of Glass Turntable During Operation Helps Cook Food More Evenly And Then Improves The Cooking Efficiency. So You Will Enjoy Fresh And Delicious Food Within A Short Time
- Interior Light & Child Lock : Interior Light For Checking The Status Without Having To Open The Doors. The Safety Lock Prevents Unsupervised Operation By Children. Lock The Control Panel Using The Child Safety Lock Option To Prevent Accidental Use Or Access By Children
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What size and power rating are ideal for a dorm microwave?
A compact unit with a 0.7 cu ft capacity and 700‑900 watts of output balances space constraints and cooking speed. Models in this range can handle most dorm meals, from reheating leftovers to defrosting frozen snacks. Look for a microwave that fits on a small countertop or shelf while still delivering enough power for quick cooking.
How do the Chefman and Farberware 0.7 cu ft microwaves compare?
Both offer 700 watts and ten power levels, but Chefman adds a memory function and a child‑safety lock on the handle, while Farberware emphasizes a clear LED display and interior lighting. Chefman includes six preset cooking options, whereas Farberware provides multi‑stage cooking and a weight‑based defrost feature. In practice, Chefman may feel more user‑friendly for quick one‑touch cooking, while Farberware offers slightly more flexibility for custom recipes.
Which models provide the strongest safety features for students?
The Chefman, Farberware, COMFEE CMO‑C20M1WH, and Galanz units all include child‑safety locks, but the COMFEE CMO‑C20M1WH adds a two‑step lock for extra protection. Additionally, the Chefman and Black+Decker models let you disable the control panel entirely with a lock mode. For dorms where accidental door opening is a concern, choose a microwave with both a lockable handle and a panel lock.
Is the retro‑styled microwave worth the extra cost?
Retro designs like the COMFEE CMO‑C20M1WH and Galanz GLCMKA07BER‑07 mainly offer aesthetic appeal and a slightly larger turntable, without a significant performance boost over standard models. They still provide 700 watts and the usual preset functions, so the functional value is comparable. If the look matches your dorm decor and you don’t mind a modest price premium, the retro look can be a fun addition.
How important is an Eco or energy‑saving mode in a dorm setting?
Dorm electricity budgets can be tight, so a microwave with an Eco mode—like the COMFEE EM720CPL—can cut standby power by up to 50 %. This feature reduces the cost of leaving the unit plugged in between uses, though it does not affect cooking efficiency. If you plan to use the microwave frequently, the savings may be modest, but Eco mode is still a nice perk for energy‑conscious students.
Which microwave gives the best overall value for money?
The Chefman 0.9 cu ft, 900‑watt model stands out with higher power, ten power levels, memory function, and a child‑lock, all at a price typically lower than the retro or feature‑rich COMFEE units. It balances capacity, performance, and convenience without extra design frills. For most dorm users, this model delivers the most cooking capability per dollar spent.
Do preset cooking options differ significantly across the mini microwaves?
All listed models include the common presets—popcorn, pizza, beverage, veggie, potato, and reheat—but some add extra features like a mute function (COMFEE EM720CPL) or multi‑stage cooking (Farberware). The Toshiba ML‑EM09PA adds six auto‑menus plus a mute option, while Black+Decker provides a dedicated “dinner plate” preset. If you rely heavily on one‑touch cooking, choose a model whose preset list matches your typical meals.
What should I consider about turntable size and interior space?
A 10‑inch glass turntable is standard on most 0.7 cu ft units and fits most plates and bowls used in dorm kitchens. Models like the Toshiba EM131A5C‑BS have a slightly larger 12.4‑inch turntable, offering more flexibility for bigger dishes. Ensure the interior dimensions can accommodate your favorite containers, especially if you plan to cook larger meals like a frozen pizza.