I too often use my low-wattage microwave to reheat leftovers in the morning before I leave for work. Black+Decker EM720CB7 is my favorite microwave oven.
To save you time, I took 30+ hours to test the best low wattage microwaves. And here in this article I share my experience with each low power microwave.
What are the features of a good low-wattage microwave?
- Turntables. A turntable is reasonable for rotating your food to ensure it heats evenly. Microwaves with removable turntables are easy to clean. With a microwave without a turntable, you need to stop the cooking cycle underway and turn the plate or cup around.
- Preset functions. The functions are vital for defrosting and reheating. However, these appliances tend to be pricier.
- Good size. Microwaves come in different sizes. Some can fit a 12-inch cabinet depth, 14-inch cabinet depth, and more. If your kitchen’s space is tight, a good option would be a compact countertop microwave.
- Wattage/energy efficiency. How powerful should your microwave be? If you’re making popcorn, defrosting veggies, or reheating food in small quantities, a 700 up to 900-watt microwave is a good choice. For quick heating, a 1000-watt or more will work better.
Today, microwaves are available in different colors, sizes, wattage, and functions. You can get a low-watt microwave that outclasses high-end ones.
Best low-wattage microwaves reviewed
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is one of the few compact microwaves on the market.
Just because your budget is tight for a high model doesn’t mean you pull out from energy-efficient options.
This model is affordable yet delivers exceptional results.
It takes up less space on your countertop, creating room for other appliances in use.
In the time of testing, the unit scored high when it comes to ease of use. Thanks to its intuitive and easy-to-read control panels. It comes with a design that allows even heat.
This brand is quieter than average. Its stainless steel construction makes it lightweight and easy to clean. Meaning, you can carry it around with you from the kitchen to dining hassle-free.
The in-built pre-programmed menus are perfect for pizza, potato, popcorn, beverages, and frozen vegetables. This means that you can cook, heat food, and defrost just at that price range.
Featuring a child safety lock and removable 10-inch glass turntable, this 700-watt is worth the hype.
It performs well, just like you’d expect from a modern unit, at a fraction of cost.
Pros
- Seek, flexible design
- Affordable option
- Saves much space
- Intuitive controls
- Flexible use (cook, defrost and heat)
- Lightweight, easy to clean and quieter
Cons
- Its small size is scaring
AmazonBasics Microwave
Home improvement is becoming more user-friendly as innovators keep developing smart appliances. Among the newest technology is the AmazonBasics microwave which stands out as a smart microwave.
With the AmazonBasics microwave, you get yourself a complete package of both affordability and functionality.
Smart appliances attract steep prices because they use apps that require smart devices like tablets or smartphones to control them.
Yet, the unit will cost you as much as a standard microwave despite it being the most technologically advanced.
AmazonBasics microwave uses the Alexa voice command rather than a direct app.
Therefore, you will enjoy its many automated options that make cooking and reheating food convenient for any user.
For instance, “Alexa, defrost for two minutes” is a command that starts the cooking cycle at full power for two minutes.
It is also aesthetically appealing and relatively simple to use out of the box.
Pros
- Aesthetically appealing
- Easy to use
- Smart appliance
- Best for defrosting
- Reliable and affordable
Cons
- Pricier than others on the list
Commercial Chef CHM990W Microwave Oven
Cooks do love the thoughtful construction of Commercial Chef appliances. A CHM990W 900-Watt microwave is one good example out of many.
It’s attractive to match any décor in the kitchen. And as you’d expect, this model operates quietly and efficiently.
The model has push-button touch controls for a more straightforward setup and worry-free operation. Reviewers appreciate its 10 cooking power levels that signal flexibility. By that, you can make a quality meal at any time.
Thankfully, you’ll enjoy cooking with six convenient quick-cook menus, including baked potato, popcorn, pizza, and frozen dinners.
The digital settings prepare these recipes in a couple of minutes with just a one-touch button.
Precision and safety are overlooked in this model – talk of an LED display and digital timer.
With a child safety lock, you rest assured that your kids and aged persons are safe from any danger.
Commercial Chef CHM990W requires minimal upkeep. The compact size allows easy clean-up.
Even better, you can remove the glass turntable and throw it into a dishwasher.
It’s the best for bachelors, couples, and young families with limited counter space.
Pros
- Saves space in your kitchen
- Safe for children to use
- Operates quietly than old-school microwaves
- Digital settings for easy operation
Cons
- The Control panel may be hard to read and understand for newbies
Kenmore 70722 Compact Microwave Oven
You’ll be delighted to snap up this compact, low-wattage microwave. There are plenty of dependable reasons for this.
It’s an affordable choice for small spaces like college dorm rooms, apartments, and small office kitchens.
At 700 watts, the Kenmore oven has 10 power settings that allow you to prepare different kinds of foods perfectly and evenly.
Plus, safety lock-out feature, everyone using it will be safe. The 6-auto-cook preset programs will enable you to whip up your favorite meal without guesswork.
Whether it’s pizza or frozen vegetables, this model is up for the challenge.
Should you decide to make a late-night snack without disturbing your roommates, this appliance is super-quiet to get the job done.
And apart from the easy-to-read control panel, the microwave is simple to navigate.
Another exciting thing is the addition of a removable glass turntable. Easy to clean describes this feature relatively well.
But it’s advisable not to clean the unit in a dishwasher, instead use your hands.
If you want to defrost frozen foods, make use of the integrated defrost button. Play with time and weight to get everything as per your preference.
Pros
- Cooks evenly
- Lockout feature for safety
- 6 auto-cook options
- Easy and convenient to use
- Defrost quickly
Cons
- Heats food slowly
Farberware Classic FMO07AHTBKJ Microwave
Like most premium microwaves, the Farberware Classic comes with a full stainless front finish.
Although its surge power is 700 watts, this model still offers shorter cook times. So, you don’t have to downsize it. It just performs impressively.
Quick and easy are two features that describe this appliance. You’ll prepare snacks and meals in a couple of 30 minutes or less.
Farberware Classic earns an excellent rating for its ability to defrost. The microwave breezed through our rigorous tests for speed of heating and heating evenness.
Its stylish design is the reason for its elegant look. Regardless of any color you choose, the microwave will match your kitchen décor.
A child lock feature it comes with boosts the level of security, especially unsupervised use.
Out of 6 auto cooking programs, you can choose the option that suits your cooking needs.
Reheat and cook your favorite dish just with one touch of a button.
From potato and pizza to dinner plates and popcorn, you can make them all without any hitch.
In our defrost test, this model was a standout as it grounded beef evenly. The appliance earns high scores for quietness and ease of use.
Although its heating speed isn’t the best, this is not a huge downside considering the price range.
Pros
- Real space-saver
- Ideal for college students
- Easy to read and use
- Defrost evenly
- High levels of quietness
Cons
- Speed of heating is slow
Commercial Chef CHM770SS Countertop Microwave
Don’t scour around anymore looking for the lowest-wattage microwave.
This appliance from Commercial Chef is unbeatable in the kitchen. It’s perfect for a college student with a tight budget.
Whether you want to heat leftovers, or frozen pizza and prepare a cup of coffee for a morning sip, this unit won’t disappoint.
The microwave excels at defrosting, earning a better rating than most of you would expect. The 10 cooking power levels allow cooking flexibility.
The unit has low maintenance, making it an excellent choice for studios, dorms, and small apartments. Most stainless steel appliances will always match any kitchen, and this isn’t an exception. The polished finish is eye-catching.
Despite this unit having a low wattage of 700 watts, it provides convenient features that you can’t find in high-end products. You don’t have to sacrifice too much space at the expense of this stylish unit.
While safety is a vital factor to consider, this microwave is a winner. It packs a child safety lock that ensures usage with supervision by your children.
Customers continue to rave about its ease of use, easy cleanup, and portability.
Pros
- Easy to operate and use
- Perfect for small spaces
- Saves countertop space
- Lock feature for safety
- Attractive finish
Cons
- Doesn’t dry out food
Galanz GLCMKA07BKR-07 Retro Microwave Oven
The Galanz GLCMKA07BKR-07 is impressive at heating food evenly. Well, the unit makes reheating or cooking beverages simple and convenient.
Apart from the high speed of heating, the low-wattage microwave also runs quietly.
All the control panels are user-friendly, so the user doesn’t need to consult the manual unless otherwise. If making popcorn and defrosting veggies is your thing, this 700-watt microwave is sufficient.
Like most top-performing models, this one has adjustable power levels, offering plenty of choices to handle any cooking task. It only weighs 23.1 lbs.
Meaning you can carry it with you anywhere and everywhere.
The Retro design is fabulous and brings a feeling of those old days. The good news is that it will function exceptionally in any modern kitchen.
The microwave remains the favorite addition to any home office, college, rec room, and dorm room.
The unique feature is the interior light that allows you to monitor the reheating process without opening it.
Use the child lock feature to prevent your children from accessing it. This reduces any potential accident in your kitchen.
Pros
- Runs quietly
- Heats food evenly and quickly
- User-friendly control panels
- Portable
- Best at defrosting
Cons
- Slowly high-wattage microwaves
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Considered a Low Wattage Microwave?
Homeowners who want to save power bills, college students in dorms, and campers living in a motorhome may find low-wattage microwaves as the ideal choice.
The microwave can handle basic cooking and reheating requirements.
How many watts do you need in a microwave?
A high-wattage microwave will take a short time to cook your food. It all depends on your cooking requirements.
If you own a restaurant, a higher-wattage oven of at least 800 watts will do. Most units have a power output of 600 to 1200 watts.
How many watts does it take to run a small microwave?
Most small microwaves for dorms require a power of 700 watts. This will heat food evenly and quickly.
Are 700-watt microwaves any good?
Yes, they’re good, depending on the environment. The microwave oven is ideal for dorms, home offices, and small kitchens where energy consumption is a concern.
And since you’ll be cooking food in small quantities, a 700-watt unit will cope with the requirements.
Final verdict
All of my recommendations will make a difference, but BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is the winner. It stocks more digitized features than its competitors.