Many of you will definitely agree with me when I say that a microwave is one of the most important appliances to have in the kitchen. It can deliver an abundance of functions, although its performance will largely depend on the quality of the product that will be chosen. With this, it is extremely important to be a responsible buyer.
What is the best compact microwave that is available in the market? If you are wondering on what to buy, keep on reading the rest of this post and learn from the insights that we will be sharing. Aside from the purchase considerations, we will also look at some of the best products that you might want to consider.
Benefits of the Best Compact Microwave
If you still do not have a compact microwave in the kitchen, before are some of the reasons that might convince you to purchase one today:
Space-Efficiency
This is perhaps the most obvious benefit of having a compact microwave. This is a perfect choice for people with small kitchens since they will only require a small space.
Ease of Installation
In most cases, all that you need to do is to have it plugged and it will be ready to work. This is unlike in the case of over-the-range microwave wherein you need to think about the vents and spare more effort in the installation.
Versatile
Most of the compact microwaves can deliver a wide array of functions. They have pre-set cooking functions, which means that there is no need to guess the time and level of heat that is necessary for a specific task.
Choosing the Best Compact Microwave
Below are some of the most important factors to consider, which will make it easy for you to narrow down the possibilities and arrive at the right decision:
- Functions: It is important to take a look at the functions that are available in the microwave. Choose one that can deliver multiple functions. Aside from reheating, most of them can also be used for defrosting, among other functions.
- Capacity: Most of the options that fall within this category can hold between .5 to 1 cubic foot. The larger the capacity is, the larger is the microwave. Think about the size of the kitchen and the household to determine what capacity is best for your needs.
- Ease of Use: You also have to pay attention to how user-friendly the product is. It will be good if the controls are in strategic positions. The handle should have an ergonomic design. As much as possible, pick a model with a digital timer. The manufacturer must also provide comprehensive instructions.
- Wattage: This is an important consideration because it will be indicative of the power of the microwave. More watts mean more power. This also means that your food will be heated quicker. Nonetheless, the more powerful ones also tend to be more expensive.
- Aesthetics: A compact microwave is one of the those will be exposed in the kitchen. With this, make sure to pick one that is as stylish as possible. It should add a hint of elegance or complement the overall look that you are trying to achieve in the kitchen.
- Turntable: It is also important that it comes with a well-designed turntable. It should be removable, which will make it easy to clean. As the turntable rotates, this will make sure even distribution of heat in your food.
- Warranty: It is inevitable that the compact microwave will experience problems in the past. With this, it will be good if the manufacturer is offering an extensive warranty coverage, which means that they will repair and replace the defective parts without any cost on your end.
Safety Tips in Using Compact Microwave
There have been a lot of horror stories with regards to how a compact microwave has been a source of hazard in the kitchen, especially fire. To prevent any unfortunate incident. Make sure to keep these tips in mind:
- Regular cleaning is a must. As much as possible, clean it right after every use by wiping it with a clean cloth. Deep cleaning should be part of routine maintenance. This will prevent dirt from accumulating and from compromising safety.
- Be sure to pay attention to the containers that will be used and see to it that they are microwave-safe. Aluminum foil and metal containers should not be used.
- Observe caution when handling anything from inside the microwave, especially liquids in containers. Use oven mitts, if possible.
- You should also be wary about where in the kitchen you will be placing the microwave. Keep it away from the heat of the sun. Make sure as well that it is in a location that is not prone to getting wet.
Below is a short video that will show you more about how to use a microwave safely:
Top Picks for the Best Compact Microwave
Still clueless about which one will make the perfect choice? In this section, we will provide you with a glimpse at the brands and models that you should include in your list.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of 2020-04-07 at 13:16 PST - Details/Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Kitchen countertop microwave oven for preparing snacks, heating up last night’s leftovers or food preparation.
- Durable strong construction with a Black front display and cabinet for compact durability.
- Easy to grasp grip Type handle to open and close the door
- Mechanical, rotary dial controls make it great for those seeking simple, basic operation
- Speed and Weight defrost allows for multiple uses in the kitchen
Product prices and availability are accurate as of 2020-04-07 at 13:16 PST - Details/Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- 0.7 cu.ft. capacity microwave
- 700 watts of cooking power
- Stylish black and stainless steel exterior
- 10 power levels, Dimensions 14 x 17.3 x 10.1 inches
- Simple one-touch cooking for 6 popular uses
Product prices and availability are accurate as of 2020-04-07 at 13:16 PST - Details/Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Panasonic microwave: this 950 watt high power, 0.8 cubic foot capacity stainless steel countertop/built in microwave delivers a seamless stream of cooking power for even cooking and delicious flavor
- Inverter technology with turbo defrost: Patented inverter technology generates a seamless stream of power and delivers consistent, evenly prepared food without overcooking; Advanced inverter turbo defrost speeds up defrosting time
- Compact design: This countertop microwave with 11 1/4 inch turntable is thinner, lighter and more efficient, allowing you to devote less space to electronics and more to interior capacity; Internal dimensions (h x w x d): 8 1/8 inch x 12 3/8 inch x 13 7/8 inch
- Smart cooking settings with genius sensor: Built in automatic genius sensor adjusts power and times based on different foods; Other advantages include preset menu items, quick minute timer, delay start and child safety lock
- Keep warm feature: This inverter microwave keeps soups, gravies or desserts warm and fresh until ready to serve; Power source 120 v, 60 hz
Product prices and availability are accurate as of 2020-04-07 at 13:16 PST - Details/Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- 900 watt of cooking power with 10 adjustable power levels
- 6 auto cooking/one touch menu options
- Speed defrost or weight defrost options
- Cooking complete signal
- Green LED digital display
- Child safety lock option
- Stylish brushed stainless design
- Simple, easy to navigate controls
Product prices and availability are accurate as of 2020-04-07 at 13:16 PST - Details/Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Now it’s easier to defrost vegetables, make popcorn, cook potatoes, and reheat rice. With an Echo device (not included), quick-cook voice presets and a simplified keypad let you just ask Alexa to start microwaving.
- Automatically reorder popcorn when you run low and save 10% on popcorn orders—enabled by Amazon Dash Replenishment technology
- Compact size saves counter space, plus 10 power levels, a kitchen timer, a child lock, and a turntable.
- Alexa is always getting smarter and adding new presets.
- External dimensions (Width x Height x Depth): 17.3 in. x 10.1 in. x 14.1 in. ; internal dimensions (10 7/8 in. x 6 7/8 in. x 10” in.); Turntable (Diameter): 10 in. ; Maximum Popcorn bag size: 3 oz
Product prices and availability are accurate as of 2020-04-07 at 13:16 PST - Details/Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Conclusion
In sum, the best compact microwave will prove to be an excellent addition in the kitchen. It is space-efficient, affordable, and multipurpose. You can use it in more ways than one, not only for reheating leftovers. Its many benefits, however, will only be apparent if you pick the right product.
If I have to choose only one from the options that we have briefly discussed above, it would be Panasonic. It is made by a trusted brand, yet it comes with an affordable price and user-friendly.
