The best low profile countertop microwave offers efficient cooking and reheating while reclaiming valuable kitchen real estate, perfect for smaller or meticulously organized spaces. These compact appliances are designed to fit under cabinets or on shallow shelves, ensuring they don’t dominate your workspace. When selecting one, consider factors like wattage for cooking speed, interior capacity, and the nuanced differences in control panel design and presets.
A poorly chosen unit might offer insufficient power, awkward controls, or a footprint that still feels intrusive, leading to frustration and wasted potential. To help you find the ideal fit, we’ve rounded up the top 10 best low profile countertop microwave options available.
The best low profile countertop microwave offers a compact footprint without sacrificing essential features, such as the Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven, notable for its 25L compact size and user-friendly controls. Other options ideal for space-saving include the GE Profile PCHK11S1WWW with its 1.1 cu. ft.
capacity and 800 watts, or the very compact GE Countertop Microwave Oven at 0.7 cubic feet with 700 watts.
Best Low Profile Countertop Microwaves Compared
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | GE Profile PCHK11S1WWW 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave, 800W, Sensor Best for: Sensor cooking | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In with Inverter Technology Best for: Inverter heating | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | GE Countertop Microwave Oven,1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8 Best for: Family capacity | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1,150-watt Capacity, 1.6 Cubic Ft., 8 Best for: Everyday reheating | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Best for: Simple operation | Check Price |
How We Picked
To select the best low profile countertop microwave, we prioritized build quality, real-world performance, safety, durability, and standout features. We examined wattage, capacity, and advanced cooking technologies like inverter and convection. Models with robust child locks and user-friendly interfaces were favored for safety and ease of use.
While GE models offered varied capacities and wattages, alongside features like air fry, Panasonic’s Inverter Technology provided consistent power. We ruled out models that lacked clear indicators of durability or safety features, ensuring our recommendations represent excellent value and reliable performance for any kitchen.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Matching Microwave Height to Your Counter
When choosing a low-profile countertop microwave, height is crucial. Measure the clearance between your countertop and the cabinets above. Opt for models with a smaller vertical footprint, like the GE Profile PCHK11S1WWW (1.1 cu.
ft.) or the Breville Compact Wave Soft Close (25L capacity). These units are designed to fit snugly without sacrificing essential cooking space, ensuring it doesn’t feel overpowering in your kitchen layout and leaves ample room for airflow.
Don’t Let Dimensions Fool You
A low profile often implies a smaller interior capacity. While some compact models excel, like the GE 0.7 Cu. Ft.
(700-watt), ensure it still meets your daily needs. If you frequently reheat larger dishes or prepare family meals, a slightly larger but still slim unit, such as the Panasonic NN-SN686S (1.2 cu.
ft., 1200W) or the GE 1.4 Cu. Ft. (1100W), might be a better fit.
Always check cubic footage against your typical usage before committing.
1. GE Profile PCHK11S1WWW 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave, 800W, Sensor
Best for: Smart home chefs needing advanced control.
This GE Profile microwave features WiFi Connect, allowing you to manage cook time and power remotely from your smartphone or tablet for ultimate convenience. Its 1.1 cu. ft. capacity provides balanced space for everyday meals.
With 800 Watts of cooking power, achieve fast and even results, supported by Sensor Cook Technology that automatically adjusts time and temperature for perfect preparation. It includes 10 power levels and a defrost function for versatile meal prep.
Pros
- WiFi Connect for remote operation
- Sensor Cook Technology for optimal results
- 10 power levels for precise cooking
- 800W for quick heating
Cons
- 1.1 cu. ft. capacity may be limiting for large dishes
Ideal for the tech-savvy individual who appreciates remote control and precise cooking. This microwave is perfect for busy households looking to simplify meal preparation.
2. Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In with Inverter Technology
Best for: Home cooks prioritizing even cooking and power.
Panasonic’s 1.2 cubic foot stainless steel microwave boasts 1200 Watts of high power for rapid cooking and features patented Inverter Technology for consistent results. This ensures your food is prepared evenly without overcooking.
The true seamless stream of power from Inverter Technology delivers delicious flavor, while the 340mm turntable diameter accommodates larger plates. It offers 10 power levels and 14 pre-programmed cooking options, including a specialized Turbo Defrost.
Pros
- 1200W high power for fast cooking
- Inverter Technology for even heating
- Large 340mm turntable diameter
- 14 cooking programs for versatility
Cons
- Not smart home compatible
Perfect for cooks who demand consistent, even results and appreciate higher wattage for quicker meals. This large capacity microwave is well-suited for families needing reliable performance.
3. GE Countertop Microwave Oven,1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8
Best for: Families needing large capacity and safety.
This GE microwave offers a generous 2.0 cubic foot capacity, allowing you to cook larger dishes and family-sized portions with ease. Its 1200 watts of power ensure efficient and effective cooking, optimizing your time in the kitchen.
The intuitive Sensor Cooking Controls automatically adjust cooking time and power levels for delicious results, while the two-step child lock feature enhances safety for households with young children. It includes 8 programs and weight/time defrost settings.
Pros
- Large 2.0 cu. ft. capacity
- 1200W for powerful cooking
- Sensor Cooking Controls.
- Two-step Child Lock for safety
Cons
- Larger footprint may not suit very small countertops
This is an excellent choice for large families or individuals who frequently cook substantial meals. Its combination of power, capacity, and safety features makes it a practical kitchen addition.
4. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1,150-watt Capacity, 1.6 Cubic Ft., 8
Best for: Busy individuals seeking efficient cooking.
With 1150 watts of power and a 1.6 cubic foot capacity, this GE microwave efficiently cooks meals while maintaining a compact footprint for your countertop. The glass turntable rotates for optimal and even cooking results.
Sensor Cooking Controls automatically adjust time and power for perfectly prepared food, and the weight and time defrost options offer convenient thawing. It features 10 programs, including presets for beverages and pizza, alongside a two-step child lock.
Pros
- 1150W for rapid cooking
- 1.6 cu. ft. capacity balances size and volume
- Sensor Cooking Controls.
- Convenient defrost options
Cons
- No specific convection or air fry features
Ideal for individuals or small families needing a powerful and spacious microwave for everyday use. Its efficient performance and convenient features streamline meal preparation.
5. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child
Best for: Budget-conscious users needing basic functions.
This BLACK+DECKER 0.7 cubic foot microwave delivers 700 Watts of cooking power for quick reheating and cooking tasks. Its compact size makes it suitable for smaller kitchens or dorm rooms.
Featuring 10 power settings and pre-programmed buttons for common foods like popcorn and pizza, it simplifies cooking. The push-button door release and LED display offer user-friendly operation, and a child safety lock adds peace of mind.
Pros
- 700W power for basic needs
- Compact 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 10 power settings
- Pre-programmed cooking buttons
Cons
- Lower wattage may result in longer cooking times
A practical choice for individuals or students looking for a reliable, no-frills microwave. It effectively handles essential reheating and cooking tasks in compact living spaces.
6. Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven, Silver
Best for: Those valuing quiet operation and compactness.
The Breville Compact Wave microwave offers a 25L capacity within a compact footprint, designed for precise reheating and defrosting. Engineered with an 80% quieter soft-close door, it minimizes kitchen noise.
This model features 900 watts of power for efficient cooking and provides a convenient food menu with easy shortcuts. It operates with only 2 power levels and a timer function, focusing on essential microwave functions.
Pros
- Quiet soft-close door
- Compact 25L footprint
- 900W for effective cooking
- Easy shortcuts menu
Cons
- Only 2 power levels
Perfect for users who prioritize a quieter kitchen environment and need a compact yet capable microwave. This appliance is ideal for smaller homes or individuals seeking convenience.
7. GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection
Best for: Adventurous cooks seeking multi-functionality.
Expand your cooking capabilities with this GE 4-in-1 microwave, featuring 1050 Watts of power and a 1.0 cu. ft. capacity. It uniquely integrates Air Fry, Convection, and Broil functions alongside standard microwave settings.
Achieve crispier foods with the built-in Air Fryer, golden-brown results using Convection with a special rack for air circulation, or sear and caramelize with the Broil feature. It offers 10 power levels and 12 cooking programs for diverse culinary exploration.
Pros
- Air Fry, Convection, and Broil functions
- 1050W for versatile cooking
- 1.0 cu. ft. capacity
- 12 programs for diverse meals
Cons
- Takes up more counter space due to multi-functionality
This GE microwave is designed for the culinary explorer who wants to do more than just reheat. It’s ideal for those looking to Air Fry, bake, or broil in addition to microwaving.
8. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.4 Cubic Ft., 1,100-watt Capacity, 7
Best for: Families needing spacious, feature-rich cooking.
This GE microwave offers a substantial 1.4 cubic foot capacity and 1100 watts of power, making it suitable for cooking larger meals and accommodating family needs. Its glass turntable ensures consistent cooking throughout.
Equipped with Sensor Cooking Controls, it automatically adjusts power and time for optimal results, while Weight and Time Defrost provides flexible thawing. The unit includes 10 power levels and express cook instant-on settings for convenience.
Pros
- Generous 1.4 cu. ft. capacity
- 1100W for efficient cooking
- Sensor Cooking Controls.
- Express Cook instant-on feature
Cons
- No advanced features like convection or air fry
A solid choice for families seeking a spacious and powerful microwave for everyday cooking and reheating. The combination of capacity and smart controls simplifies meal preparation.
9. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 1.1 Cubic Ft., 950-watt Capacity,
Best for: Students and small households needing convenience.
With 950 watts of power and a 1.1 cubic foot capacity, this GE microwave delivers effective and efficient cooking for small kitchens. Its space-saving exterior belies a spacious interior for everyday meals.
Featuring simple, one-touch operation with convenience cooking controls and a kitchen timer, it makes meal prep straightforward. The glass turntable rotates for optimal cooking performance, and a two-step child lock provides added safety.
Pros
- 950W for efficient cooking
- Compact 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
- One-touch convenience cooking
- Child lock for safety
Cons
- Limited range of specialized cooking programs
This GE microwave is perfect for students, dorm rooms, or small apartments where space and ease of use are key. It efficiently handles basic cooking and reheating needs.
10. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft., 700-watt Capacity,
Best for: Minimalists needing a compact, basic unit.
This compact GE microwave provides 700 watts of power and a 0.7 cubic foot capacity, fitting easily on countertops or shelves. Its straightforward design is perfect for basic reheating and cooking tasks.
Featuring one-touch operation and convenient controls, this GE microwave simplifies meal preparation. The glass turntable rotates for optimal cooking, and a two-step child lock ensures safety. It includes 10 power levels and various presets.
Pros
- Compact 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 700W for everyday tasks
- Simple one-touch operation
- Child Safety Lock
Cons
- Lower wattage may require longer cooking times
An excellent option for individuals or small spaces where a basic, reliable microwave is needed. This GE model is ideal for simple reheating and preparing snacks.
Wasted Watts Derail Low Profile Microwave Utility
When evaluating the best low profile countertop microwave, understand that raw wattage is often a siren song that leads buyers astray, obscuring a more critical trade-off between cooking speed and evenness. The assumption that more watts equals better performance cracks under scrutiny, especially when considering the 700-watt GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft. alongside the 1200-watt Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In with Inverter Technology.
While the Panasonic’s output suggests faster cooking, its Inverter Technology is key; it delivers a more consistent, seamless stream of power, meaning delicate foods like fish or vegetables are less likely to become rubbery on the edges and undercooked in the center, a common pitfall with less sophisticated high-wattage machines.
The GE Profile PCHK11S1WWW 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave, with its 800 Watts and sensor cooking, attempts to bridge this gap by automatically adjusting cook time, but it still operates within a more traditional power delivery system. This is in contrast to the Panasonic’s commitment to evenness, which is paramount for true culinary flexibility beyond simple reheating. For instance, many shoppers overlook that a lower wattage microwave, like the 700-watt GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft., might actually excel at precise defrosting or gentle simmering if it utilizes a smarter power modulation system, rather than just blasting food with brute force.
This isn’t to say higher wattage is inherently bad, but it must be paired with intelligent delivery. The GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 2.0 Cubic Ft., with its 1200 watts, offers a substantial capacity and power for rapidly preparing larger meals, but without advanced technology, expect uneven results for anything requiring nuanced cooking. The Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven, while not explicitly detailing its wattage in the primary description, focuses on precise reheat, defrost and cook with intuitive shortcuts, suggesting a design philosophy that prioritizes intelligent power management over sheer output.
Its compact 25L footprint becomes truly functional when the cooking is reliably consistent, not just fast.
Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether your priority is raw speed at the risk of texture, or carefully modulated power for reliable results. The GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection for example, incorporates convection and air frying, which inherently demand more controlled heating than basic microwave function, suggesting a sophisticated power delivery is crucial for these multi-functional appliances.
For those who demand dependable reheating and more complex cooking tasks, the Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In with Inverter Technology offers the superior approach to power delivery.
What to Look for in a Low Profile Countertop Microwave
Microwave dimensions fit
When selecting a low-profile microwave, precisely measure your available cabinet space. Most standard microwaves exceed 15 inches in height, but low-profile models aim for under 14 inches, offering crucial clearance for upper cabinets. Prioritize units with a depth under 20 inches to ensure they don’t protrude excessively onto your countertop.
Crucially, verify under-cabinet mounting kit compatibility if you intend to mount your microwave for maximum counter space. For cabinets with less than 15 inches of vertical space, a microwave specifically designed with a sub-14-inch height and optional mounting kit is your only viable option.
Cooking power features
Determine your cooking needs by examining wattage and features. A solid performance range is between 900W and 1000W for efficient heating and cooking; anything below 700W will significantly increase cook times. While basic presets for popcorn and defrost are standard, look for models with sensor cooking, which automatically adjusts time and power based on food’s steam.
A turntable diameter between 12 and 13 inches is typical for most standard dinner plates; choose removable turntables for easier cleaning. For users who prioritize speed and convenience with basic reheating and defrosting, a 900W model with simple presets is sufficient.
For more involved cooking tasks and consistent results, opt for a 1000W unit with sensor cooking and a larger, removable turntable.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you need to heat up a single meal or beverage quickly, choose a compact model with around 7.0-1.1 cu. ft. capacity and 700-950 watts of power.
- If you frequently cook or reheat larger dishes for a family, opt for a mid-size microwave with 1.2-1.6 cu. ft. capacity and 1050-1200 watts for faster, more even heating.
- If you have young children and prioritize safety, look for models with a two-step child lock feature.
- If you want to do more than just microwave, consider a model with convection or air fry capabilities for added versatility.
Quick Best Low Profile Countertop Microwave Buying Checklist
- Measure Your Space Accurately measure the height, width, and depth available on your countertop or under your cabinets before purchasing.
- Consider Wattage Higher wattage generally means faster cooking times; aim for at least 900 watts for efficient performance.
- Check Door Swing Ensure the door opens conveniently without obstructing walkways or other appliances.
- Evaluate Preset Programs Look for presets that match your common cooking needs, like popcorn, potato, or defrost.
- Removable Turntable A removable or shut-off turntable makes cleaning significantly easier.
- Noise Level Read reviews to gauge how loud the microwave operates, especially if it’s in an open-plan living area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes A Microwave ‘Low Profile’?
A low profile microwave is specifically designed with reduced height to fit comfortably under standard kitchen cabinets. These models typically measure under 15 inches in height, offering a more streamlined and less obtrusive appearance on your countertop.
Are Low Profile Microwaves Less Powerful Than Standard Models?
Not necessarily; low profile microwaves offer a range of power levels, often between 700 and 1000 watts, comparable to many standard countertop units. The ‘low profile’ designation refers primarily to their reduced vertical dimensions, not their cooking strength.
Can A Low Profile Microwave Be Mounted Under A Cabinet?
Yes, many low profile microwaves are designed for under-cabinet installation and may come with specific mounting kits. This is a key benefit, allowing them to save valuable counter space while maintaining accessibility.
What Features Should I Prioritize In A Low Profile Microwave?
Prioritize essential features like adequate wattage for your needs, convenient presets for common foods, and sensor cooking for optimal results. Also, consider the ease of cleaning, such as a removable turntable and a wipeable interior.
How Much Counter Space Does A Low Profile Microwave Actually Save?
By reducing the vertical footprint, these microwaves significantly free up headroom on your countertop, typically creating space above the unit. This makes your kitchen feel less cluttered and more open, enhancing usability.
Final Words
Choosing the best low profile countertop microwave enhances kitchen aesthetics and functionality by saving precious counter space. With smart design and powerful features, these compact appliances offer versatility without sacrificing performance. Upgrade your kitchen efficiency and enjoy a more organized cooking experience starting today.
