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What is the Smallest Microwave Oven?
What is the Smallest Microwave Oven? The smallest functional microwave oven available in 2026 is the iWavecube IW600, measuring approximately 10.5″ W x 10″ D x 12″ H with a 0.6 cu ft capacity and 600W power, ideal for personal use in offices or tiny spaces. Other ultra-compact models start at 0.7 cu ft, with exterior dimensions around 17–18″ W x 13–14″ D x 10″ H.
Microwave Size Categories
Microwaves are categorized by interior capacity and exterior dimensions.
- Ultra-Compact/Small: <0.8 cu ft, exterior ~10–18″ W x 10–15″ D x 10–12″ H, 600–700W.
- Compact: 0.8–1.0 cu ft, exterior ~18–20″ W x 14–16″ D x 11–12″ H, 700–900W.
- Medium: 1.1–1.5 cu ft, common household size.
- Large: >1.6 cu ft.
Average countertop microwave capacity is 1.0–1.6 cu ft per industry data.
Dimensions and Capacity Comparison
| Category | Capacity (cu ft) | Exterior Dimensions (approx.) | Wattage | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ultra-Compact | 0.6–0.7 | 10–18″ W x 10–14″ D x 10–12″ H | 600–700W | Dorm, office, RV |
| Compact | 0.8–1.0 | 18–20″ W x 14–16″ D x 11–13″ H | 700–1000W | Small apartments |
| Medium | 1.1–1.5 | 20–22″ W x 16–18″ D x 12–14″ H | 900–1200W | Families |
| Large | 1.6+ | 22–24″ W x 18–20″ D x 13–15″ H | 1000–1250W | High-volume cooking |
Small models sacrifice speed and even heating for space savings.
Top Smallest Microwave Models in 2026
Leading ultra-compact options per reviews from Consumer Reports and Wirecutter:
- iWavecube IW600: World’s smallest at ~10.5″ x 10″ x 12″, 0.6 cu ft, 600W; portable with handle.
- Commercial Chef CHM660B/CHM770B: 0.6–0.7 cu ft, ~17.8″ W x 10.2″ D x 13.7″ H, 700W; budget-friendly for dorms.
- GE JES1072SHSS: 0.7 cu ft, compact design; top-rated for small spaces.
- Breville Compact Wave: 0.9 cu ft, soft-close door; premium feel in small footprint.
Consumer Reports highlights small microwaves excel in even heating but lag in speed due to lower wattage.
Explore Consumer Reports’ best small microwaves for lab-tested ratings.
Limitations of Smallest Microwaves
Physics limits size: microwave cavity must accommodate ~12cm wavelength for efficient heating.
- Lower power (600–700W) slows cooking vs. 1000W+ models.
- Fits mugs/cups but not full dinner plates (turntable ~9–10″).
- Best for reheating, popcorn, defrosting; not family meals.
Demand rises for dorms, RVs, tiny homes; market focuses on 0.7 cu ft minimum for practicality.
Tips for Choosing a Small Microwave
- Measure space: Allow 3–6″ ventilation around unit.
- Prioritize 700W+ for faster heating.
- Check turntable size for dish compatibility.
- Read reviews for noise and durability.
View Wirecutter’s best microwaves for compact picks.
FAQ
What is the absolute smallest microwave oven? The iWavecube at ~10″ cube, 0.6 cu ft.
Can small microwaves fit a dinner plate? Rarely; most have 9–10″ turntables vs. 12″+ in larger models.
Are ultra-compact microwaves powerful enough? Yes for basics, but slower than 1000W units.
Where to buy the smallest microwaves? Amazon, Best Buy, or specialty sites; check availability as some are discontinued.
What is the average microwave size? 1.0–1.6 cu ft for most households.
Final Thoughts
The smallest microwave ovens prioritize space-saving for dorms, offices, or RVs, starting at 0.6–0.7 cu ft with trade-offs in power and capacity. Opt for reliable brands like Commercial Chef or GE for best performance in tight spaces—balance size with daily needs for optimal convenience in 2026.
Maksuda Khanam is a passionate home appliance expert and the primary author behind KitchenMarts.com
