Living in a small apartment with a cramped kitchen, I’ve come to rely on my microwave for everything—reheating last night’s dinner, defrosting meat for a quick stew, or even melting butter for a recipe. Over the past few months, I’ve tested several countertop models from Amazon, juggling limited counter space with a need for efficiency. I’ve also pored over thousands of Amazon reviews to see what other users love or struggle with. Here are three microwaves that have impressed me based on my daily use and the honest feedback from the community, each tailored to different needs.
Quick Comparison Table
| Product | Key Feature | Capacity | Best For |
| Toshiba EM131A5C-BS | Smart Humidity Sensor | 1.2 cu ft | Consistent heating, family use |
| Commercial Chef CHM770B | Compact Mechanical Dials | 0.7 cu ft | Tight spaces, low budgets |
| Farberware Classic FM09SS | 900 Watts + Stainless Steel | 0.9 cu ft | Small households, quiet use |
1. Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven
Consistent Heating and Smart Sensor Functionality
I upgraded to this microwave last winter when my old one gave out, choosing it for its smart features. The first test was reheating a plate of lasagna, and I was struck by how evenly it warmed—no more cold middles like before. It’s become my go-to for oatmeal in the mornings, steaming frozen veggies, and thawing meat. It’s not flawless, but it’s been a dependable workhorse.
Key Components
- Smart Humidity Sensor: Detects steam to adjust cooking time automatically, reducing the risk of overcooked meals or uneven heat.
- 1000 Watts of Power: Delivers quick, consistent heating with 10 adjustable power levels for versatility.
- 1.2 Cubic Feet Interior: Comfortably holds larger dishes, like a 12-inch pizza or a family-sized casserole. The sensor adds a layer of convenience, though it occasionally misjudges delicate items like melted chocolate.
Texture & Performance
The interior’s smooth surface wipes clean easily, and the turntable ensures even cooking if I arrange food thoughtfully. Defrosting a pound of frozen chicken takes about 10 minutes, and a full meal reheats in 2-3 minutes—efficient for its size. It does get a bit loud on high settings, but the mute button has become a daily savior when my roommate’s asleep.
Pros
- Evenly heats dense foods, a big improvement over my last microwave.
- Spacious enough for family meals without overwhelming my counter.
- Mute function saves me from early morning noise complaints.
Cons
- The control panel’s array of auto menus can feel overwhelming at first.
- Noticeably noisy on higher power levels.
- A bit bulky for my smaller kitchen setup.
What Others Say
Boasting over 20,000 reviews and a 4.6-star average, it’s a hit with Amazon shoppers. One user shared, “This thing heats my meals perfectly every time—no more cold centers.” Another added, “The sensor is handy, but it’s loud when you crank it up—still worth it.”
Real-Life Usability
I rely on it multiple times a day, from breakfast to late-night snacks. I’ve learned to tweak the power for sensitive foods, and it’s perfect for meal prepping. The size suits my current space, though I’ve had to rearrange my counter to accommodate it.
2. Commercial Chef CHM770B Countertop Microwave Oven
Basic, Compact, and Surprisingly Capable
When my old microwave died in my last tiny apartment, I grabbed this one out of necessity. Its compact size slipped into a corner effortlessly, and the lack of digital fuss with its mechanical dials was a welcome change. It’s handled soup and snacks well, though it’s slower than I’d prefer.
Key Components
- 700 Watts of Power: Sufficient for simple heating, with 6 power levels to adjust intensity.
- 0.7 Cubic Feet Capacity: Small but fits a dinner plate or soup bowl, ideal for solo use.
- Manual Dials: Basic knobs for time and power, offering straightforward operation without a screen. The lower wattage means patience is key, but the size is a space-saver.
Texture & Performance
The black finish looks neat but attracts fingerprints, and the turntable helps with even heating if I stir midway. Reheating soup or coffee takes 1.5-2 minutes, and defrosting half a pound of chicken needs about 8 minutes—slower, but it gets there. The dials can be a touch noisy when adjusted.
Pros
- Fits perfectly in tight spaces or on shelves.
- Affordable, typically under $100, fitting my budget.
- No complicated setup—just turn and go.
Cons
- Heating is slower compared to higher-watt models.
- Uneven results unless I stir food during cooking.
- Dials add a bit of noise when turning.
What Others Say
With over 5,000 reviews and a 4.3-star average, it’s a budget favorite. One reviewer noted, “Perfect for my tiny apartment—does the job without breaking the bank.” Another said, “It’s slow, but at this price, I can’t complain much.”
Real-Life Usability
It’s been my pick for quick bites or leftovers in cramped quarters. I kept it on a shelf when not in use, using it mostly for mornings or late snacks. It’s not for complex meals, but it’s held up for basic needs.
3. Farberware Classic FM09SS 900W Countertop Microwave Oven
Compact, Stylish, and Quiet in Use
I switched to this model after wanting a more polished look for my updated kitchen, testing it with a cup of tea and some leftovers. It warmed everything evenly in about 2 minutes, and the quiet hum let me use it at night without disturbing anyone. It’s a good fit for my small household, though the capacity limits bigger dishes.
Key Components
- 900 Watts of Power: Strikes a balance between speed and efficiency, with multiple power levels for control.
- 0.9 Cubic Feet Capacity: Holds standard plates or small casseroles, perfect for one or two people.
- Stainless Steel Exterior: Durable, easy to clean, and adds a modern touch to my counter. The power and design make it practical, though it lacks advanced features like a sensor.
Texture & Performance
The dark gray interior cleans up with a quick wipe, and the turntable ensures even heating if I center food properly. Defrosting a pound of meat takes around 10 minutes, and a plate reheats in 2.5 minutes—solid for its size. It’s quieter than my other microwaves, a big plus for late use.
Pros
- Compact yet powerful enough for daily tasks.
- Quiet operation, ideal for shared living spaces.
- Sleek stainless steel finish enhances my kitchen.
Cons
- No advanced features like auto-sensors or presets.
- Slower than 1000-watt models for thicker foods.
- Beeps at the end can’t be turned off.
What Others Say
With around 4,000 reviews and a 4.4-star average, it’s well-regarded. One user wrote, “Heats evenly and looks great on my counter.” Another commented, “I love using it late at night—much quieter than my last one.”
Real-Life Usability
I use it daily for reheating and occasional defrosting, keeping it as my main appliance. It handles my single servings well, and the quietness is a relief during late-night use. I just avoid overloading it and wipe it down regularly.
Verdict
After months of testing, the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS has won me over with its even heating and smart sensor, fitting my current kitchen setup. The Commercial Chef CHM770B proved its worth in my smaller space and on a budget, despite its slower pace. The Farberware Classic FM09SS stands out for its quiet operation and compact style, meeting my needs for a small household. Each has carved out its role in my routine, and I’m happy with how they’ve adapted to my life.
Affiliate Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This review reflects my personal experience and insights from Amazon reviews, and I only recommend products I’d use myself.
