· Maggie · Reviews/Home · 8 min read
Top 7 Best Compact Microwaves for Dorm Rooms in 2025 Reviewed
Looking for the perfect microwave for your dorm room? Check out these 7 compact microwaves that save space, pack a punch, and won’t break the bank. Ideal for quick meals, late-night snacks, and everything in between!
Introduction
Let’s face it—dorm life isn’t exactly known for its spacious kitchens or gourmet cooking setups. When you’re juggling classes, late-night study sessions, and the occasional Netflix binge, having a reliable microwave can feel like a lifesaver. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one without turning your tiny space into a cluttered mess?
In this guide, I’ve rounded up seven of the best compact microwaves that are perfect for dorm living. These little powerhouses are designed to fit snugly into tight spaces while still delivering the performance you need. Whether you’re reheating last night’s pizza or whipping up a quick bowl of ramen, I’ve got you covered. Let’s get into it!
Comfee EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven
The Comfee EM720CPL-PMB is a dorm room MVP. It’s small enough to tuck into the tiniest corner but still manages to fit a full-sized dinner plate—impressive, right? The ECO mode is a nice touch for saving energy, and the sound on/off feature is a godsend when you’re sneaking a midnight snack without waking your roommate.
That said, it’s not perfect. The lightweight design means it can slide around when you open the door, which can be a bit annoying. And while the turntable usually does its job, it occasionally misaligns, leaving you with unevenly heated food. Still, for the price and size, it’s a solid pick.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact size, fits small spaces | Lightweight, slides easily |
| ECO mode for energy savings | Turntable alignment issues |
| Sound on/off feature | Limited power (700W) |
Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts, 0.7 Cu. Ft.
If you’re into retro vibes, the Farberware Countertop Microwave might be your jam. Its sleek black design adds a touch of style to your dorm, and the 0.7 cu. ft. size is just right for small spaces. The 700-watt power is decent for reheating and defrosting, though it might take a bit longer for bigger meals.
One feature I love? The child lock—perfect for shared spaces where curious hands might wander. The LED lighting inside makes it easy to keep an eye on your food, and the easy-clean interior is a win for low-maintenance living. On the flip side, the door feels a bit flimsy, and the interior can get steamy, so keep a towel handy.
Compared to the Comfee, this one doesn’t have ECO mode or sound controls, but it’s a no-fuss, budget-friendly option that gets the job done.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact and space-saving design | Door mechanism feels flimsy |
| Child lock for safety | Interior accumulates moisture |
| Easy-to-use control panel | Lower wattage than some models |
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is a reliable little workhorse. Its 0.7 cu. ft. size fits perfectly in tight spaces, and the 700W power is plenty for quick meals. The push-button door gives it a modern look, and the child safety lock is a nice bonus for shared dorms.
That said, the turntable can be a bit finicky—it sometimes slips off its track, which can be frustrating. And while the stainless steel finish looks sharp, it’s a fingerprint magnet. If you’re okay with a few quirks, this microwave is a solid choice for basic needs.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact design, ideal for dorms | Turntable can slip off track |
| Child safety lock for added security | No ECO mode |
| Sleek stainless steel finish | Shows fingerprints easily |
GE GCST11X1WSS Microwave Oven
The GE GCST11X1WSS is a step up in power and capacity. With 950 watts and a 1.1 cu. ft. interior, it’s faster and more spacious than most dorm-friendly microwaves. The six auto-cook settings are a game-changer, making it super easy to reheat or defrost with just a button press.
But there are a couple of downsides. The buttons aren’t backlit, which can be annoying in dim lighting, and some users have mentioned it’s a bit noisy. Still, if you’re looking for a microwave that can handle more than just popcorn, this one’s worth considering.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 950-watt power for faster heating | Buttons are hard to read in dim light |
| Spacious 1.1 cu. ft. capacity | Some users report noise issues |
| 6 auto-cooking settings | Lightweight build feels less durable |
Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 Retro Microwave Oven
This Galanz microwave is all about style. Its retro design, complete with a pull handle and vibrant Bebop Blue color, is a fun addition to any dorm room. The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity is perfect for small meals, and the child lock is a nice safety feature.
The dial controls are straightforward, though they might take some getting used to if you’re used to digital interfaces. The 700-watt power is on the lower side, so heating times can be a bit longer. And while the turntable works most of the time, it can be a little unstable. If you’re into aesthetics and simplicity, this one’s a winner.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish retro design | Lower 700-watt power |
| Compact and space-saving | Turntable can be unstable |
| Easy-to-use dial controls | Limited advanced features |
GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
If you’re feeling fancy, the GE GCST10A1WSS is a multitasking marvel. It’s not just a microwave—it’s also an air fryer, broiler, and convection oven. With 1,050 watts of power, it heats food quickly and evenly, and the stainless steel interior is a breeze to clean.
The air fryer mode is a standout, delivering crispy results without the need for a separate appliance. That said, the control panel can be tricky to read in low light, and the beeping can be a bit over-the-top. If you’re looking to up your dorm cooking game, this one’s a solid investment.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Versatile 4-in-1 functionality | Control panel hard to read |
| Compact design for small spaces | Loud and persistent beeping |
| Effective air fryer and broiler | Learning curve for multi-functions |
RCA RMW733-BLACK 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black
The RCA RMW733-BLACK is a no-nonsense microwave that gets the job done. It’s compact, affordable, and perfect for basic reheating and defrosting. The 700-watt power is decent, though it might take a bit longer for larger meals.
One thing I love about this model is how quiet it is—great for late-night snacks without disturbing your roommate. However, the buttons can feel stiff, and the interior is on the smaller side. If you’re on a tight budget and need something simple, this is a solid choice.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact and space-saving design | Stiff buttons and door mechanism |
| Quiet operation | Smaller interior capacity |
| Affordable price | Limited advanced features |
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best size microwave for a dorm room?
A compact microwave with a capacity of 0.7 to 1.1 cubic feet is ideal for dorm rooms. These models are small enough to fit on tight countertops but still powerful enough to handle most basic cooking tasks. Look for something with 700 to 1,000 watts of power for efficient heating.
Why don’t some dorms allow microwaves?
Safety is the main concern. Dorms are crowded spaces, and microwaves can pose fire hazards if used improperly. Many dorms provide communal kitchens with microwaves to keep things safe and organized.
What’s the smallest microwave size?
The smallest microwaves usually range from 0.5 to 0.7 cubic feet. They’re perfect for tiny spaces but still handle basic tasks like reheating and defrosting.
What’s the difference between countertop and built-in microwaves?
Countertop microwaves sit on your counter and are portable, while built-in models are installed into cabinets or walls for a sleek look. Built-ins are pricier and often require professional installation.
Is a 0.9 cu. ft. microwave big enough?
For most dorm needs, yes! It’s great for reheating and small meals, but if you’re cooking for a crowd or using larger dishes, you might want something bigger.
Should I get a microwave for my dorm?
Absolutely—if your dorm allows it. A microwave is a lifesaver for quick meals and snacks, and it can save you money on dining hall meals or takeout.
Final Recommendations
After testing these microwaves, here’s the lowdown:
- Best for Compact Size: Comfee EM720CPL-PMB (Amazon link)
- Best for Quiet Operation: BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 (Amazon link)
- Best for Ease of Use: Farberware Countertop Microwave (Amazon link)
- Best for Versatility: GE GCST10A1WSS (Amazon link)
- Best for Budget: RCA RMW733-BLACK (Amazon link)
Each of these microwaves has its strengths, so pick the one that fits your needs and budget. Happy microwaving!
Affiliate Disclosure
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you click on one of the product links above and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my work!
