4 Best Counter Ovens for Small Spaces in 2026
If your kitchen’s tight on space, finding a counter oven that blends compact size with reliable performance is essential. With models under 20 inches wide offering features like convection baking and quick-access controls, you can transform your tiny cooking area into a functional space without sacrificing versatility. But which models truly maximize efficiency and style? Let’s explore four of the best options that prove big things come in small packages—and why your countertop might just get a serious upgrade.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven (0.9 Cu Ft, 900W, 10 Power Levels)
If you need a small microwave that works well and doesn’t take up much space, the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a good choice. It has a inside size of 0.9 cubic feet. The microwave measures about 13.3 inches wide, 18.9 inches deep, and 11.5 inches high. It weighs around 28 pounds, so it’s easy to move or fit on your counter.
This microwave has 900 watts of power and offers 10 different levels. That means you can adjust the heat to reheat food or cook meals just the way you like. It also has six preset buttons, so you can quickly choose common tasks like popcorn or pizza. Its digital controls are simple to use, and the exterior is easy to clean.
This microwave is perfect for small kitchens or spaces where you want a reliable, compact appliance. It’s good for reheating leftovers, snacks, or even cooking simple dishes.
Pros:
- It saves space and fits well in small kitchens.
- It has multiple power levels and preset buttons.
- It’s easy to operate with clear digital controls.
- The outside is durable and simple to clean.
Cons:
- The inside space is small, so larger dishes may not fit.
- It doesn’t have a convection or grilling feature.
- Its simple design might not appeal to everyone who wants a fancy look.
This microwave is great if you want a basic, reliable machine that handles everyday cooking tasks without taking up much room.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.7 Cu Ft, 700W
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is small and easy to use. It has a 0.7 cubic foot space inside and uses 700 watts of power. This makes it good for small kitchens or places where space is limited.
The microwave has simple digital controls. You can easily set the cooking time and power level. It also has a +30 seconds button, so you can quickly add more cooking time. There are 10 different power levels to choose from. Plus, it has six preset functions. These include popcorn, pizza, vegetables, and more. These help you cook common foods quickly and easily.
Safety features include a child safety lock and a mute button. The Lock Mode helps prevent accidental use. The microwave runs quietly, so it doesn’t disturb your home. It looks sleek with a black finish. The glass turntable inside is dishwasher safe, making it easy to clean.
This microwave is perfect for small kitchens or shared spaces. It is reliable and simple to use. The size and features make it a good choice if you want a quick, efficient microwave.
Pros:
- Small size fits in tight spaces
- Easy digital controls with preset options
- Safety features like child lock and mute button
Cons:
- The 0.7 cubic foot space may be small for big dishes
- 700W power could mean longer cooking times
- Lacks some advanced features found in larger, more expensive microwaves
TOSHIBA AC25CEW-BS Large 6-Slice Convection Toaster Oven
The Toshiba AC25CEW-BS convection toaster oven is a great choice for small kitchens that need a lot of different cooking options. It has a 25-liter size, which means you can toast six bread slices or bake an 11-inch pizza easily. This oven works for many tasks because it can do ten things. You can toast, bake, broil, cook pizza, make cookies, defrost, reheat, use rotisserie, keep food warm, or use convection baking.
The controls are simple to use. There are three big knobs and LCD screens that make it easy to set the temperature and time. It has 1500 watts of power, so it heats up quickly and cooks food evenly. The oven has a sleek stainless steel look, which looks nice in any kitchen.
This oven is best for busy families or small space kitchens. It gives you many options in one device. You can toast bread, cook a pizza, bake cookies, or even rotisserie a chicken. The big size lets you cook larger meals or multiple items at once.
The oven is easy to control with large knobs and clear screens. It heats up fast and cooks food evenly. The main downside is that it takes up a lot of space on your counter. Some people may find the manual controls less advanced than digital models. Also, the power cord is only 4 feet long, so you might need to place it close to an outlet.
BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft
In a busy kitchen, space is important. The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Microwave is a good pick if you want a small, reliable microwave. It has a sleek stainless steel look and a capacity of 0.7 cubic feet. It measures about 17 inches wide, 13 inches deep, and 10 inches tall. This size fits on most countertops, and the 10-inch turntable inside can hold many different dishes.
The microwave has 700 watts of power. It also has 10 levels of heat settings, so you can choose how hot you want your food. You can quickly warm up popcorn, pizza, or drinks with built-in presets. The sensor technology helps cook or reheat food just right, so it doesn’t get too hot or cold.
The microwave has a big digital display that’s easy to see. Its simple controls make it easy to use. The stainless steel finish gives your kitchen a modern look.
There are some limits. Because it has 700 watts, it might take a little longer to cook some foods compared to stronger models. It does not have features like grilling or convection baking. Also, it comes with a one-year warranty, which may not cover everything long-term.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Counterovens for Small Spaces
When selecting a counter oven for limited space, you’ll want to look at models with compact dimensions—ideally under 20 inches wide—and features that maximize efficiency, such as low power consumption without sacrificing performance. Are the controls intuitive enough for quick adjustments, or do you need a manual that reads more like a novel? Don’t overlook safety features like automatic shutoff or cool-touch exteriors, which are essential in small kitchens where accidents happen faster than you can say “overcooked.”
Compact Dimensions
When you pick a counter oven for a small space, you need to know its size. You don’t want it to take up all your countertop or block the way to other appliances. Small ovens usually measure less than 19 inches wide. That size fits well in tiny kitchens without feeling crowded. Their height is usually between 11 and 12 inches, so you can put them under cabinets or in low spots. The depth is often from 13 to 19 inches, making sure they don’t take up too much space on your counter. Many small ovens have smooth, rounded, or slim designs. These styles make the ovens look nice and give you more room inside. They also make the ovens easier to move and hide in small kitchens. Choosing ovens with the right size helps you get good use out of them without losing space.
Power Efficiency
Most small counter ovens have adjustable power levels. These range from about 700W to 900W. The different levels let you change how much energy the oven uses. When baking or reheating soft foods, use the lower power. It saves energy and still cooks well. For tougher tasks that need more heat, turn the power up to cook faster. Some ovens have a standby or Eco Mode. These modes use less energy when the oven is not in use, helping you save money and protect the environment.
Smaller ovens usually use less power. This makes them more energy-efficient, especially if you have a small kitchen. Good oven features also help save energy. For example, even heat distribution spreads heat evenly, so cooking takes less time. Quick cooking modes can also finish meals faster. Checking the wattage of an oven helps you pick one that uses the right amount of power. This way, you avoid wasting energy while still cooking well.
User-Friendly Controls
Have you ever had trouble using a dirty or confusing control panel on a kitchen appliance? If yes, you will like models that have clear buttons or dials. These labels make it easy to know what each control does. Some ovens have touchscreens with simple options you can pick. These make cooking faster and easier. You can set the timer or oven setting without guessing. Features like a quick +30 seconds button help you add time fast. One-touch preset buttons let you choose common settings with just one tap. This makes busy mornings simpler.
Safety is also important. Look for ovens with child locks or control lock modes. These stop little kids from changing the settings or turning on the oven by mistake. An easy-to-understand control layout helps you operate the oven without reading a long manual. It saves time and prevents confusion.
When you choose an oven with simple controls, you get a model that is easy to use. It also works well in small spaces. This makes cooking quicker and more enjoyable for everyone.
Safety Features
Safety features are very important when choosing a counter oven. This is especially true in small kitchens, where accidents can happen more easily. Child safety locks stop little hands from opening or turning on the oven by mistake. Control panel lock modes keep your settings safe during cooking, so they don’t change by accident. Certified models with safety marks like cETL follow strict safety rules. They help reduce electric shocks and other hazards. Auto shut-off and overheat protection turn off the oven if it gets too hot. This helps prevent fires. Clear warning labels and instructions show you how to use the oven safely. This makes it easier to avoid mistakes. A safe oven protects everyone and keeps your kitchen a safe place to cook.
Versatile Functions
When choosing a small countertop oven, look for models with many functions. These help your kitchen work better and make cooking easier. Pick ovens that have different power levels and preset buttons. These allow you to adjust quickly for tasks like defrosting or reheating food.
Many small ovens come with extra features like convection baking, grilling, or rotisserie. These let you do more than just microwave. Some ovens have one-touch buttons for popcorn, pizza, or drinks. This saves time and makes cooking simple.
Adjustable temperature and timer settings give you control over your food. Some models even combine a microwave, convection oven, and toaster in one device. This replaces multiple appliances and saves space on your counter. Plus, it keeps your kitchen tidy and functional.
In short, find a small oven with versatile features. It will make cooking easier, faster, and more fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Typical Lifespan of a Compact Counter Oven?
A compact counter oven typically lasts around 5 to 10 years with proper care. You can extend its lifespan by regularly cleaning, avoiding overuse, and following the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations to keep it functioning efficiently.
Are Energy-Efficient Models Available for Small Kitchens?
Yes, energy-efficient models are available for small kitchens. You can find compact ovens with features like convection technology and programmable settings, helping you save energy while still meeting your cooking needs, all without taking up too much space.
Can Small Counter Ovens Replace Regular Full-Sized Ovens?
Yes, small counter ovens can replace regular full-sized ovens for many tasks, especially if you have limited space. They’re versatile enough for baking, roasting, and reheating, making them a practical, space-saving alternative for most cooking needs.
Do Compact Ovens Require Special Ventilation or Outlets?
Compact ovens usually don’t need special ventilation or outlets, but you should check your model’s specifications. Standard electrical outlets typically suffice, though some high-powered units might require a dedicated circuit for ideal safety and performance.
How Easy Is It to Clean Small Countertop Ovens?
Cleaning small countertop ovens is quite easy since many models feature removable trays and crumb caps. You just wipe the interior with a damp cloth and occasionally clean the racks, making maintenance quick and straightforward for you.
Hello! I’m Eloise Wilson, the culinary enthusiast behind SimplyCookings. Cooking is my canvas and flavors are my palette. I’m here to share easy-to-follow recipes and kitchen wisdom that will make your cooking journey joyful and delicious. Join me and let’s turn everyday meals into extraordinary experiences!
