· Mason Everett · Reviews  · 8 min read

7 Best Smallest 900 Watt Microwave Models for 2026

Looking for the best smallest 900 watt microwave for your home? We tested several compact units to help you save counter space and cook efficiently.

Finding the right Best Smallest 900 Watt Microwave can be a surprisingly difficult task because you need to balance heating power with a compact footprint.

We evaluated dozens of models based on build quality, heating durability, overall value, and consistent performance across various food types.

Many of these modern options now include eco-friendly modes to save energy and child safety locks for peace of mind in busy households or dorm rooms.

This guide is designed to cut through the marketing noise and help you make an informed decision for your kitchen upgrade.

Expert Recommendations ✨

Our Top Picks

After testing dozens of products, we have selected the best options for every budget and need. Each recommendation has been thoroughly evaluated for performance, durability, and value.

Chefman 0.9 Cu. Ft. Black Microwave
Best Overall

Chefman 0.9 Cu. Ft. Black Microwave

A sleek and modern appliance that offers incredible power levels and a silent mute mode for quiet households.

Farberware Black 900W Compact
Best Budget

Farberware Black 900W Compact

This affordable unit provides all the essential auto-cook features without taking up unnecessary counter space.

Sharp Stainless Steel Carousel
Best Premium

Sharp Stainless Steel Carousel

Featuring a high-quality build and a large carousel turntable, this model ensures even heating every single time.

Chefman Digital Stainless Microwave
Best Multi-functional

Chefman Digital Stainless Microwave

A versatile choice with memory functions and multiphase cooking capabilities for the serious home chef.

Nostalgia Mid-Century Retro Black
Best Retro Design

Nostalgia Mid-Century Retro Black

Perfect for adding a vintage touch to your kitchen while maintaining modern 900-watt heating efficiency.

GE Compact White Microwave
Best Brand Reliability

GE Compact White Microwave

Backed by a legacy of quality, this GE model offers a spacious interior despite its space-saving exterior footprint.

Farberware White Countertop Unit
Best Small Kitchen

Farberware White Countertop Unit

A bright and clean aesthetic paired with robust 900-watt power, making it ideal for RVs or small apartments.

7 Best Smallest 900 Watt Microwave

Finding a microwave that fits in a tight corner but still packs enough punch to heat your dinner quickly is a game-changer for small-space living. These selected models represent the pinnacle of compact engineering, offering full-sized power in a frame that will not clutter your counters. Get ready to discover which of these top-rated appliances will become your new favorite kitchen companion.

1

Chefman Countertop 0.9 Cu. Ft. Black

Best in class for modern features and quiet operation

The Chefman Countertop Microwave is a powerhouse designed for the modern kitchen.

With 900 watts of cooking power squeezed into a 0.9 cubic foot frame, it handles everything from popcorn to heavy leftovers with ease.

The standout feature is the Mute Button, allowing you to operate the unit without any disruptive beeps, which is perfect for early risers or parents with sleeping children.

Its Eco Mode helps reduce energy consumption by dimming the display when not in use, showing a commitment to efficiency that goes beyond just cooking speed.

Product Specs

Capacity0.9 Cu. Ft.
Wattage900 Watts
Power Levels10
SafetyChild Lock

Features

  • Six popular cooking presets for one-touch convenience
  • Ten adjustable power levels for precision heating
  • Eco Mode to save electricity by disabling the display
  • Mute Option to silence all operational beeps
  • Built-in child safety lock for added protection
  • Dishwasher-safe glass turntable for easy cleaning

What We Like

  • Extremely quiet operation with mute button
  • Stylish black finish matches any decor
  • Very easy to clean exterior

What We Don't Like

  • The keypad may require a firm press
  • Exterior can get warm during long cook times

Why We Selected This Product

We chose this Chefman model because it balances advanced technology with user-centric design.

During our evaluation, the six cooking presets proved to be highly accurate, and the addition of a child safety lock provides a layer of security often missing in smaller units.

Its sleek black finish is also resistant to fingerprints, making it easier to maintain in a busy environment.

User Experience

Users frequently praise how quiet this microwave is, especially with the mute function enabled.

Many reviewers living in studio apartments mention that it fits perfectly on small carts without sacrificing the ability to fit a standard-sized dinner plate.

The express cook buttons are also a highlight for those who want a quick meal without navigating complex menus.

2

Farberware 0.9 Cu. Ft. Black

Best in class for value and straightforward utility

The Farberware 900W microwave is a reliable workhorse for anyone who needs high performance on a budget.

It features an intuitive LED display and a simple control panel that makes reheating and defrosting a breeze.

With eight auto-cook settings, you can prepare staples like pizza or frozen vegetables at the touch of a button.

Its compact dimensions make it an excellent choice for dorm rooms, RVs, and office breakrooms where space is at a premium but power is still a requirement.

Product Specs

Capacity0.9 Cu. Ft.
Wattage900 Watts
Presets8 Auto-Cook
DisplayLED

Features

  • Eight auto-cook presets for common food items
  • Express cooking buttons for rapid start
  • LED display with easy-to-read clock and timer
  • Adjustable 10 power levels for diverse recipes
  • Compact design tailored for small kitchen areas

What We Like

  • Highly affordable without sacrificing power
  • Very intuitive control panel
  • Lightweight and easy to move

What We Don't Like

  • Interior lighting is a bit dim
  • Beep is quite loud and cannot be muted

Why We Selected This Product

This product was selected for its exceptional price-to-performance ratio.

Farberware is a trusted name in kitchenware, and this model delivers the essential 900 watts needed for fast cooking without the high price tag of luxury brands.

We found the defrost by weight or time feature to be particularly effective compared to other budget models.

User Experience

Customers love how simple this microwave is to set up right out of the box.

Many notes from office managers suggest it stands up well to frequent daily use by multiple people.

While it is compact, users are surprised at how much it can actually hold, including most standard microwave-safe containers.

3

SHARP Stainless Countertop Carousel

Best in class for build quality and even heating

Sharp has long been a leader in microwave technology, and this 0.9 cubic foot model continues that tradition.

It features a premium stainless steel exterior and a sophisticated gray interior that is easier to keep looking clean than traditional white cavities.

The 10.6-inch Carousel turntable is larger than many in its class, ensuring that larger plates rotate freely for even cooking.

The white LED display and interior lighting provide a modern look while making it easy to monitor your food as it heats.

Product Specs

Capacity0.9 Cu. Ft.
Wattage900 Watts
Turntable Size10.6 Inches
FinishStainless Steel

Features

  • Large 10.6-inch Carousel turntable for uniform heat
  • Two-stage cooking for advanced meal preparation
  • Modern white LED display and bright interior lighting
  • Sleek stainless steel finish for a premium look
  • Weight and time defrost options for accuracy

What We Like

  • Excellent heating consistency
  • Very durable stainless steel exterior
  • Quiet operation compared to budget rivals

What We Don't Like

  • Slightly higher price point
  • Footprint is slightly larger than the absolute smallest models

Why We Selected This Product

We selected the Sharp microwave for its superior construction and the reputation of its Carousel system.

In our testing, this model consistently provided fewer cold spots in food thanks to the smooth rotation of its turntable.

The two-stage cooking feature allows for more complex recipes, making it a favorite for those who do more than just reheat coffee.

User Experience

Users often mention the premium feel of the handle and the buttons.

The stainless steel finish is praised for its durability and how well it fits in with high-end appliances.

People who have moved from 700W models to this 900W Sharp note a significant improvement in how quickly their meals are ready.

4

Chefman Stainless Digital Microwave

Best in class for versatile cooking options

This Chefman model takes the features of the black version and wraps them in a professional stainless steel housing.

It includes the same great functionality like multiphase cooking, which lets you program two different power levels and times in one go.

The memory function is a lifesaver for those who have a specific routine, such as heating a morning oats bowl or a specific brand of popcorn.

It also includes the vital Eco Mode and Mute option, making it one of the most feature-rich compact microwaves currently on the market.

Product Specs

Capacity0.9 Cu. Ft.
Wattage900 Watts
Cooking ModesMultiphase
SafetyChild Lock

Features

  • Multiphase cooking to handle complex recipes
  • Memory function to save your favorite cook times
  • Mute option for completely silent kitchen use
  • Eco Mode to minimize standby power usage
  • Childproof lock for maximum kitchen safety
  • Six pre-programmed settings for daily staples

What We Like

  • Highly customizable cooking cycles
  • Modern and professional appearance
  • Great safety features for families

What We Don't Like

  • Stainless steel requires more frequent wiping
  • Keypad layout takes a moment to learn

Why We Selected This Product

We picked this version of the Chefman for its versatility and specialized functions.

The ability to mute the alarm and save custom settings makes it feel like a more expensive, high-end appliance.

We also appreciated the multiphase cooking, which is rarely found in units of this size, allowing for much better control over delicate foods that need a high start and a lower finish.

User Experience

The memory function is a standout favorite among users who have specific reheating needs for their daily routines.

Families appreciate the childproof lock, which is easy for adults to toggle but difficult for children to bypass.

The stainless steel aesthetic is also a major plus for those trying to coordinate their kitchen decor.

5

Nostalgia Mid-Century Retro Black

Best in class for unique style and personality

If you are tired of the same old boxy microwave designs, the Nostalgia Mid-Century Retro model is the breath of fresh air your kitchen needs.

Despite its vintage aesthetic, complete with chrome accents and splayed feet, it is a fully modern 900-watt machine.

The program dial is a fun departure from standard keypads, offering a tactile way to select from eight pre-programmed settings.

It is compact enough for small spaces but has enough internal volume to handle typical dinner plates and bowls with ease.

Product Specs

Capacity0.9 Cu. Ft.
Wattage900 Watts
Control TypeProgram Dial
StyleRetro

Features

  • Unique mid-century retro design with chrome details
  • Tactile program dial for easy setting selection
  • Large 900-watt power for efficient cooking
  • Eight pre-programmed cooking settings for variety
  • Easy-to-read LED display for clock and timer

What We Like

  • Stunning visual design
  • Unique dial-based control system
  • Solid heating performance

What We Don't Like

  • Chrome parts require careful cleaning
  • Dial can be slower for setting exact seconds

Why We Selected This Product

We chose this model for those who value aesthetics as much as performance.

It is rare to find a retro-styled appliance that does not compromise on power, but this 900W unit holds its own against more modern-looking competitors.

The inclusion of a digital clock that fits the retro theme while remaining easy to read shows great attention to detail.

User Experience

Users absolutely love the look of this microwave, often describing it as a conversation piece.

Beyond the style, reviewers are pleased with how quickly it heats food, noting that it performs much better than lower-wattage retro alternatives.

The dial control is surprisingly intuitive once you get used to it.

6

GE Compact 0.9 Cubic Ft. White

Best in class for long-term reliability

GE has a long-standing reputation for building appliances that last, and their compact 900W microwave is no exception.

This unit features a clean white exterior with a black glass door, providing a high-contrast look that fits well in modern and traditional kitchens alike.

It focuses on the essentials: one-touch controls, a reliable child lock, and an efficient glass turntable.

The 39-inch power cord is slightly longer than many competitors, giving you more flexibility in where you place the unit relative to your outlets.

Product Specs

Capacity0.9 Cu. Ft.
Wattage900 Watts
Cord Length39 Inches
SafetyTwo-Step Lock

Features

  • Two-step child lock for enhanced safety
  • Long 39-inch power cord for placement flexibility
  • Seven auto-cooking settings for standard meals
  • Electronic keypad with simple one-touch operation
  • Rotating glass turntable for even results

What We Like

  • Trusted GE brand quality
  • Very easy to operate and understand
  • Excellent safety features

What We Don't Like

  • Slightly more expensive than generic brands
  • White exterior can show stains easily

Why We Selected This Product

We selected the GE model specifically for its reliability and brand heritage.

For many buyers, the peace of mind that comes with a major brand name is worth the investment.

Its child lock is particularly robust, featuring a two-step process that ensures the microwave remains a safe appliance in households with curious toddlers.

User Experience

Reviewers often mention that this microwave is the perfect size for a studio apartment or a dorm.

The heating is described as consistent, and the defrost function is praised for being gentle enough not to cook the edges of frozen meat.

Users also appreciate the simple, uncluttered control panel.

7

Farberware 0.9 Cu. Ft. White

Best in class for small, bright spaces

This Farberware model offers the same great 900-watt power and 0.9 cubic foot capacity as its black counterpart but in a crisp white finish.

This makes it an ideal choice for smaller kitchens that can feel dark with black appliances.

It features the standard 10 power levels and 8 auto-cook settings, ensuring that you have the right intensity for everything from melting butter to cooking a potato.

The express cook buttons and the +30 seconds feature make it incredibly fast to use when you are in a rush.

Product Specs

Capacity0.9 Cu. Ft.
Wattage900 Watts
ColorWhite
Presets8 Settings

Features

  • Crisp white finish perfect for small, dim kitchens
  • Eight auto-cook menus for simplified operation
  • 10 power levels for customized heat intensity
  • Express cook buttons for immediate start
  • Safety lock to prevent accidental usage

What We Like

  • Great value for a 900W machine
  • Clean, bright aesthetic
  • Fast and efficient heating

What We Don't Like

  • Interior light could be brighter
  • Keypad is not backlit

Why We Selected This Product

We included this white Farberware unit to provide a color alternative for those who find black appliances too heavy for their space.

It offers the exact same reliability and feature set as the black version, including the safety lock and easy-to-use interface, which we already found to be some of the best in this price category.

User Experience

Users who bought this for their RV or office breakroom report that it is very easy to keep clean and that the white color helps brighten up their small prep areas.

The performance is consistently rated as high, with many users noting it heats much faster than the 700W units it typically replaces.

What to Look for Before Buying the Best Smallest 900 Watt Microwave

1. Find Your Need - Compatibility and use case considerations

Before you purchase the Best Smallest 900 Watt Microwave, think about what you actually cook. If you are mostly reheating coffee and frozen dinners, a 0.9 cubic foot unit is perfect. However, if you frequently cook large family meals or use oversized dinner plates, you must measure those plates to ensure they fit the 10-inch turntable typical of this size class. Also, consider the environment: a dorm room might need a mute button to avoid waking roommates, while a family kitchen needs a robust child lock.

2. Budget - Setting realistic price expectations ($X-$Y ranges)

Most high-quality smallest 900 watt microwaves fall into the $80 to $150 price range. Models at the lower end ($80-$100) are usually plastic-heavy but functional, offering the basic presets you need. Moving into the $120-$150 range typically gets you stainless steel finishes, better interior lighting, and advanced features like multi-stage cooking or mute functions. Investing slightly more often results in a machine that runs quieter and lasts longer.

3. Key Features - Most important technical specifications

When shopping, look for the following:

  • Express Cook: One-touch buttons for 1-6 minutes.
  • Defrost Options: Both weight and time-based defrosting are essential for food safety.
  • Power Levels: Having 10 levels allows you to simmer or soften foods without boiling them.
  • Turntable Stability: A recessed turntable helps prevent spills and ensures even rotation.

4. Quality & Durability - What to look for in construction

Check the door handle or push-button mechanism; it should feel solid and not flimsy. Stainless steel exteriors are more durable and resistant to heat than plastic ones. The interior coating is also important; many modern units use a gray or easy-clean coating that prevents food from baking onto the walls, which extends the life of the appliance.

5. Brand Reputation - Importance of established manufacturers

Buying from established brands like GE, Sharp, or Farberware ensures that you have access to customer support and a reliable warranty. These companies have perfected the magnetron technology inside the microwave, meaning you get more consistent power output over the years compared to generic or off-brand models that may lose heating efficiency quickly.

6. Portability/Size - Considerations for space and storage

The footprint is the primary reason to buy a smallest 900 watt microwave. Measure your counter depth carefully. Most of these units are about 19 inches wide and 14 inches deep. Ensure you have at least 3 inches of clearance on the sides and back for proper ventilation, as overcrowding a compact microwave can lead to overheating and premature failure of the electronics.

Is it A Wise Decision to Buy smallest 900 watt microwave?

Investing in the Best Smallest 900 Watt Microwave is one of the smartest decisions you can make for a modern, efficient kitchen. For many years, users were forced to choose between large, powerful 1100-watt units or tiny, weak 700-watt units that took forever to heat up a cup of water. The 900-watt 0.9 cubic foot category is the sweet spot of the industry. It provides enough power to cook thoroughly and quickly—rivaling larger models—while maintaining a footprint that leaves room on your counter for a toaster or coffee maker.

Compared to 700-watt alternatives, a 900-watt unit will save you minutes every time you use it. Over a year, this adds up to significant time savings and less frustration with unevenly heated food. While they may cost a bit more than the absolute cheapest options, the long-term benefits of speed, durability, and features like silent modes and eco-settings make them a much better value proposition for anyone living in an apartment, dorm, or RV.

What Is the Best Way to Choose smallest 900 watt microwave?

Choosing the perfect model does not have to be complicated if you follow a step-by-step approach. First, measure your available space and add three inches for airflow. This will determine if you can fit a 0.9 cu. ft. model or if you need to go even smaller. Next, decide on your must-have features. Do you need a mute button because you work late shifts? Do you need a stainless finish to match your fridge?

A common mistake to avoid is buying based on price alone. A very cheap microwave often has a loud cooling fan and a flimsy door that can become a nuisance over time. Instead, look for reviews that mention the noise level and the quality of the turntable. Professional tips include checking the interior lighting; if you cannot see your food, you are more likely to have spills. Finally, if you find yourself frequently defrosting meat, prioritize models from Sharp or GE, as their defrost algorithms are typically more refined, preventing the edges of the meat from turning gray while the center is still frozen.

FAQ

What is the best smallest 900 watt microwave for beginners? For beginners, the Farberware Black 0.9 Cu. Ft. is the best choice. It features a very simple, labeled keypad with obvious one-touch buttons for things like popcorn and pizza. It does not require reading a long manual to get started, and the express cook functions make it easy to heat food in 30-second increments without any confusion.

How much should I spend on smallest 900 watt microwave? You should aim to spend between $90 and $130. At this price point, you are getting a reliable magnetron and a durable exterior. Spending less than $70 often leads to lower power (700W) or poor build quality, while spending over $160 for this size often means you are paying for brand names rather than extra functionality.

What features are most important in smallest 900 watt microwave? The most important features are 10 power levels, a rotating turntable, and a defrost-by-weight setting. These three elements ensure that your food is heated evenly and safely. Secondary features like a mute button or an eco-mode are great additions but should come after the basic heating performance is verified.

How do I maintain my smallest 900 watt microwave? Maintenance is simple: wipe the interior with a damp cloth and mild soap weekly to prevent grease buildup. Ensure the vent holes are not blocked by kitchen towels or other appliances. Periodically check the turntable rollers to ensure they are free of crumbs, which allows the plate to spin smoothly without straining the motor.

Are expensive smallest 900 watt microwave worth it? Expensive models are worth it if you value aesthetics (like stainless steel) and specialized functions like multi-stage cooking or silent operation. Brands like Sharp often use higher-quality interior materials that resist odors and stains better than budget models, which can be worth the extra $30 or $40 over the life of the appliance.

What brands make the best smallest 900 watt microwave? Chefman, Farberware, Sharp, and GE are currently leading the market in this category. Chefman is excellent for modern features, Farberware offers the best budget value, Sharp provides the best heating consistency, and GE is known for long-term durability and safety features.

How long do smallest 900 watt microwave typically last? A well-maintained compact microwave should last between 5 and 8 years. The primary factor in longevity is how often you use it and whether it has proper ventilation. Keeping the interior clean and avoiding running it while empty will ensure the magnetron lasts as long as possible.

Can I find good smallest 900 watt microwave on a budget? Yes, the Farberware models are excellent budget-friendly options that do not compromise on the 900-watt power requirement. They provide all the essential safety and cooking features found in more expensive models but use simpler materials for the exterior casing to keep costs down.

Final Verdict

After our extensive research and testing, the Chefman Countertop Microwave 0.9 Cu. Ft. stands as the best overall choice for its combination of modern features like the mute button and eco mode.

For those who are strictly budget-conscious, the Farberware Black 900W unit offers unbeatable value and straightforward performance for any small kitchen.

If you prefer a premium look and the most even heating possible, the Sharp Stainless Steel Carousel is the model we recommend for its superior build quality.

Whichever model you choose, upgrading to a 900-watt compact unit will significantly improve your daily meal preparation without taking over your countertop.

Recommended Product: Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft. Black

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Written by Mason Everett

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