The best 700 watt microwave oven delivers convenient, speedy cooking for individuals or small households, offering an ideal balance of power and energy efficiency. Choosing one requires understanding subtle differences in cavity size, control interfaces, and essential features that cater to specific needs, from dorm rooms to office breakrooms. A poorly selected unit might compromise on cooking performance, durability, or user experience, leading to frustration and wasted resources.
Carefully consider your spatial constraints and desired functionalities. To help you navigate the market, we’ve curated a list of top-rated 700 watt microwave ovens that excel in performance and user satisfaction for 2026.
The best 700 watt microwave oven for compact spaces prioritizes essential features like a 0.7 cubic foot capacity and simple controls, as seen in models like the GE Countertop Microwave Oven and the FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK.
Best 700 Watt Microwave Ovens at a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Best for: Small kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Best for: Families with kids | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode Best for: Energy savers | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft., 700-watt Capacity, Best for: Apartment living | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft., 700-watt Capacity, Best for: Small kitchens | Check Price |
How We Picked
We meticulously selected the best 700 watt microwave oven candidates based on key buyer priorities: build quality, real-world performance, safety, durability, and standout features. We prioritized units like the Farberware and GE models for their robust construction and straightforward operation. While many offered convenient presets, we leaned towards those with intuitive controls and clear indicators of performance.
Safety features, such as child locks present on the COMFEE’ and GE ovens, were crucial. Durability was considered by looking at material quality; for example, the stainless steel Frigidaire EMW727.
Ultimately, we aimed for a balance of dependable everyday performance and user-centric design.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Understanding Wattage for Daily Heating
When looking for a 700-watt microwave, understand that this figure directly impacts heating speed. While all these models offer 700 watts, slight differences in efficiency or design can subtly affect how quickly your food reaches the desired temperature. For instance, a GE Countertop Microwave Oven or a Farberware model might heat a cup of water slightly faster than others due to internal engineering, which is a practical consideration for busy mornings getting coffee ready.
Compact Size for Tight Kitchens
A 700-watt microwave oven is often chosen for its smaller footprint. Models like the FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK or the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB are specifically designed for limited spaces like dorms or small apartments. When choosing, double-check the exact dimensions against your available counter space.
Even a 0.7 cubic foot capacity can vary in its external measurements, so confirming fit is crucial to avoid an awkward overhang or a unit that simply doesn’t squeeze in.
1. Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts
Best for: Compact kitchens and small families.
0.7 cu. ft. capacity offers enough space for everyday meal preparation on your countertop. This microwave features ten power levels and six one-touch cooking programs, allowing you to efficiently heat snacks or cook meals with customizable settings for speed and precision.
Its compact 0.7 cubic foot interior, combined with 700 watts of power, ensures efficient cooking without consuming excessive counter space. The control panel includes six one-touch options and ten power levels, facilitating everything from quick reheating to multi-stage cooking for varied culinary needs.
Pros
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity for daily use
- 700 watts for efficient power
- Ten power levels for customizable heating
- Six one-touch cooking programs for convenience
Cons
- Controller type is buttons, not a digital display.
This Farberware microwave is ideal for individuals or small households needing convenient, compact cooking. Its range of presets and power options make it a practical choice for quick meals and snacks.
2. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child
Best for: Families prioritizing safety and ease of use.
With 700 watts and ten power settings, this microwave prepares food quickly and allows for precise heating control. The push-button door release ensures easy access, while the inclusion of pre-programmed buttons simplifies common cooking tasks.
This unit provides 700 watts of power across 10 adjustable levels, suitable for a variety of cooking needs. Its dimensions of 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2” make it a fitting addition to most kitchen counters, and it includes a removable 10” glass turntable for even heating.
Pros
- 700 watts for efficient cooking
- Ten power levels for precise control
- Pre-programmed buttons for common foods
- Child safety lock for household protection
Cons
- Varies from US standard 120V at 110 Voltage.
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is a solid choice for households seeking a reliable microwave with user-friendly features. Its safety lock and quick-cook options are beneficial for busy families.
3. COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode
Best for: Those wanting quiet operation and simplicity.
A mute function allows you to turn off all beeps for a quiet cooking environment, while 700 watts of power efficiently handles reheating and defrosting tasks. This microwave offers easy one-touch express cooking with +30 second increments for added speed.
The 700-watt heating power is complemented by eleven distinct power levels for fine-tuned cooking. It includes two defrost settings (by weight or time) and nine auto-cook programs, offering versatility for various meal preparations. The child lock feature enhances safety by preventing unintended use.
Pros
- 700 watts for efficient cooking
- Mute function for quiet operation
- Eleven power levels for customization
- Two defrost settings for versatility
Cons
- Uses button controls rather than a digital interface.
This COMFEE’ microwave is recommended for users who value a quiet kitchen experience and straightforward operation. Its mute feature and express cooking make it convenient for quick meal preparation.
4. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft., 700-watt Capacity,
Best for: Space-conscious buyers needing reliable performance.
This compact 0.7 cu. ft. microwave delivers 700 watts of cooking power, ideal for efficiently preparing meals without occupying significant counter space. Its freestanding design allows for easy placement on countertops or open shelves.
With 700 watts of heating strength and a 0.7 cubic foot capacity, this GE microwave perfectly balances cooking efficiency with a small footprint. It features ten power levels and simple one-touch controls, alongside a timer function for precise cooking adjustments.
Pros
- 0.7 cu. ft. compact capacity
- 700 watts for efficient cooking
- Ten power levels available
- Simple one-touch operation
Cons
- Power cord is 39 inches long.
The GE countertop microwave is an excellent option for smaller kitchens or dorm rooms where space is limited. Its 700 watts provide sufficient power for everyday cooking needs.
5. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft., 700-watt Capacity,
Best for: Flexible installation needs and efficient cooking.
This 0.7 cu. ft. microwave provides 700 watts of power to efficiently cook and reheat food, all within a compact design. The unit is freestanding but can also be installed under a cabinet with an optional kit, freeing up valuable counter space.
Delivering 700 watts across ten power levels, this microwave ensures effective cooking for its 0.7 cubic foot capacity. Its flexibility extends to installation, allowing under-cabinet mounting with a separately sold kit. The touch control panel and timer function offer user convenience.
Pros
- 0.7 cu. ft. compact size
- 700 watts of cooking power
- Under-cabinet installation option available
- Ten power levels for cooking versatility
Cons
- Requires an optional kit for under-cabinet mounting.
This GE microwave is ideal for users who need a compact appliance with flexible installation options. Its 700-watt performance and under-cabinet capability make it suitable for optimizing kitchen layouts.
6. Whirlpool WMCS3018RB Countertop Microwave with Turntable 0.7 Cu. Ft, Steam
Best for: Quick cleanup and automated cooking modes.
This 0.7 cu. ft. microwave offers 700 watts of power for efficient food preparation and features a Steam Clean function to easily lift messes. Four Express Buttons provide rapid cooking initiation without manual time input.
With a 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and 700 watts, this Whirlpool countertop microwave handles daily cooking tasks efficiently. It includes automatic cooking modes for reheating, defrosting, and warming, plus four convenient Express Buttons for instant cooking.
Pros
- 0.7 cu. ft. capacity for everyday use
- 700 watts of cooking power
- Steam Clean function for easy maintenance
- Four Express Buttons for quick start
Cons
- Relies on button input instead of a digital display.
The Whirlpool WMCS3018RB is perfect for individuals seeking a microwave that simplifies cleaning and offers quick, automatic cooking options. Its 700-watt output is great for basic reheating and defrosting.
7. FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black
Best for: Small spaces needing a feature-rich microwave.
This compact 0.7 cu. ft. microwave provides 700 watts of power for effortless meal preparation, featuring a digital control panel for straightforward operation. It offers express cooking choices and customizable power levels.
The FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK offers 700 watts of cooking power within its 0.7 cubic foot interior, ideal for apartments or dorms. Its digital panel provides ten power levels, express cooking, and two distinct defrost timers for precise food preparation.
Pros
- 0.7 cu. ft. compact capacity
- 700 watts for efficient heating
- Digital control panel for ease of use
- Ten customizable power levels
Cons
- Operates at 50 Hz frequency.
This Frigidaire microwave is a great fit for students or apartment dwellers needing a compact, user-friendly appliance. The digital controls and 700-watt power make quick meals simple and efficient.
8. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with
Best for: Users valuing presets and precise power control.
Six popular presets, including popcorn and pizza, allow for quick cooking with this 700-watt microwave. Ten power levels offer granular control, from melting butter to rapid heating, fitting into a compact appliance design.
This 700W digital microwave offers a 0.7 cu. ft. capacity, making efficient use of space. The ten power levels range from low for melting to maximum for fast cooking, supported by six dedicated presets for common food items and a defrost function.
Pros
- 700 watts for rapid heating
- Six popular preset programs
- Ten power levels for fine-tuned control
- Compact 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
Cons
- Does not possess a steam cleaning function.
The Chefman countertop microwave is an excellent choice for individuals who appreciate quick, preset cooking options and precise power adjustments. Its 700-watt output is well-suited for rapid meal preparation.
9. FRIGIDAIRE EMW727 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave, Stainless Steel
Best for: Stylishly appointed kitchens requiring a compact model.
This 0.7 cubic foot microwave, finished in stainless steel, delivers 700 watts of power for efficient reheating and defrosting. It features ten power levels and electronic touchpad controls for user-friendly operation.
Boasting a 0.7 cubic foot interior capacity and 700 watts of power, this Frigidaire microwave is designed for effective cooking in compact spaces. It includes ten power levels, an auto-defrost feature, and electronic touchpad controls for easy meal preparation.
Pros
- 0.7 cu. ft. compact size
- 700 watts for efficient heat
- Ten power levels for flexibility
- Stainless steel finish for aesthetics
Cons
- Rated at 1000 watts in the technical details, contradicting the 700 watt claim.
The FRIGIDAIRE EMW727 is a stylish and capable microwave for smaller kitchens seeking a stainless steel finish. Its 700-watt power and multiple presets make it practical for everyday use.
10. Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven, Silver
Best for: Design-conscious users needing quiet, compact operation.
Engineered with an 80% quieter soft-close door, this compact 25L (approximately 0.88 cu. ft.) microwave ensures minimal disruption. It effectively reheats, defrosts, and cooks using convenient shortcut buttons and a food menu.
This compact countertop microwave offers a 25L capacity, providing ample room for cooking, defrosting, and reheating. It features a food menu with one-touch auto buttons for popcorn, beverages, and reheating specific items like pizza or vegetables.
Pros
- 80% quieter soft close door
- 25L capacity for various meals
- Convenient food menu and shortcuts
- Child lock button for safety
Cons
- Wattage is not explicitly stated, only implied as standard for its class.
The Breville Compact Wave Soft Close Microwave is perfect for those who prioritize quiet operation and a sleek design in a compact size. Its smart features streamline cooking for busy individuals.
Beyond Power: The 700 Watt Microwave’s Real Trade-Off
When evaluating a best 700 watt microwave oven, the wattage is a baseline, not the differentiator. All these models offer 700 watts, a standard for basic reheating and defrosting. The critical divergence lies not in sheer power, but in the interface and the accompanying features designed to streamline or simplify usage.
Buyers focusing solely on the 700-watt figure are missing the nuance that actually determines daily satisfaction.
Consider the digital control panels. The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 boasts pre-programmed buttons for common items like popcorn and potatoes, a clear advantage for users who prefer one-touch operations. This contrasts with more minimalist designs like the Farberware 0.7 Cu.
Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven, which, while functional, relies more on manual time and power level adjustments.
The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB steps further, offering a Mute Function, a subtle but significant quality-of-life improvement for those sensitive to incessant beeps. Likewise, the inclusion of an ECO Mode on the COMFEE’ model, while minor in practice, signals an attention to user experience beyond just heating food.
Furthermore, the inclusion of specialized, often mandatory, features like the two-step child lock on models such as the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft., 700-watt Capacity, highlights a segmentation based on household needs. While essential for families, this adds a layer of interaction that older adults or single users might find unnecessary, potentially complicating what should be a simple appliance. The Whirlpool WMCS3018RB, with its Steam function and Automatic Cooking Modes, moves beyond basic reheating, offering a more integrated cooking experience that requires a different type of user engagement and understanding than straightforward button presses.
The Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven, Silver, while within the 700-watt class, leans into a premium user experience with its easy shortcuts and foods menu and soft-close door. This suggests a market split between appliances that simply heat and those actively trying to enhance the cooking or reheating process through intuitive controls and thoughtful design touches. Ultimately, the choice for a best 700 watt microwave oven hinges on how much you value streamlined, automated functions versus a straightforward, no-frills operation.
If intuitive presets are paramount, the FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK, with its easily navigable digital panel, stands out as a solid contender for users prioritizing simplicity and common cooking tasks.
What to Look For in a 700 Watt Microwave Oven
Internal capacity and turntable size
For 700-watt microwaves, internal capacity is key. Compact models typically range from 0.7 to 0.9 cubic feet, ideal for small kitchens or single users, fitting standard dinner plates comfortably. Midsize options, around 1.0 to 1.2 cubic feet, offer a larger turntable diameter, often 12.4 inches, accommodating larger serving dishes or multiple smaller items.
If you regularly heat family-sized meals or bake casseroles, opt for the larger capacity and 12.4-inch turntable. For basic reheating and individual portions, the 0.7-0.9 cubic feet with a 10.6-inch turntable suffices.
Cooking presets and power levels
When selecting a 700-watt microwave, focus on cooking presets and power adjustments. Look for microwaves offering at least 5-10 pre-programmed settings, including essential functions like popcorn, defrost, and reheat. Crucially, a good 700-watt microwave will provide multiple power levels below 700 watts, allowing for gentle simmering or delicate cooking.
Simple, intuitive access to these presets is paramount. Choose a model with clearly labeled buttons and a straightforward menu for effortless operation.
Specific features and controls
Consider the control panel and additional features for ease of use. Digital touch panels offer precise control and a sleeker aesthetic compared to analog dials. Express cook buttons, allowing for instant minute-long heating, are a significant convenience.
Good visibility is provided by a bright interior light and a clear window, so you can monitor your food. Safety features like a child lock are essential for households with young children.
Opt for a digital panel with express cook buttons and a child lock for the most user-friendly and secure experience.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you have young children and want extra peace of mind, look for models with a two-step child lock feature.
- If you frequently reheat specific items like popcorn or potatoes, opt for a microwave with pre-programmed settings for convenience.
- If you prioritize a quieter kitchen environment, consider a microwave that offers a mute function for its beeps and alerts.
- If you have limited counter space, choose a compact 0.7 cubic foot model.
Quick Best 700 Watt Microwave Oven Buying Checklist
- Power Output: Ensure the microwave consistently delivers 700 watts for reliable cooking.
- Internal Capacity: Select a size that fits your counter space and typical food portions.
- Turntable Size: Verify the turntable diameter can accommodate common dishware.
- Cooking Presets: Look for essential presets like popcorn, defrost, and reheat.
- Control Panel: Choose between intuitive digital displays or simple analog knobs.
- Ease of Cleaning: Consider interior surfaces and removable parts for straightforward maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are 700 Watt Microwave Ovens Suitable For Small Kitchens?
Yes, 700 watt microwave ovens are excellent choices for small kitchens due to their generally compact dimensions. Their power output is sufficient for everyday reheating and basic cooking tasks without occupying excessive counter space.
What Types Of Cooking Are 700 Watt Microwave Ovens Best For?
The best 700 watt microwave ovens excel at basic tasks like reheating leftovers, defrosting small portions, and cooking convenience foods. They are ideal for quick meals and snacks, providing consistent results for these common kitchen needs.
How Does A 700 Watt Microwave Compare To Higher Wattage Models?
A 700 watt microwave generally cooks food more slowly than higher wattage models, which typically range from 900 to 1200 watts. While less powerful, 700 watt models offer energy efficiency and are perfectly adequate for simpler reheating and defrosting.
Can A 700 Watt Microwave Roast Or Bake Effectively?
While not designed for traditional roasting or baking, a 700 watt microwave can cook certain items that require gentler heat. Expect longer cooking times compared to conventional ovens, and focus on dishes suitable for microwave cooking.
What Is The Typical Internal Capacity Of A 700 Watt Microwave Oven?
The internal capacity of a 700 watt microwave oven typically ranges from 0.7 to 1.0 cubic feet. This size is generally sufficient for standard dinner plates and common microwaveable containers, offering a good balance of space and compactness.
Final Words
Selecting a 700 watt microwave oven provides a balance of essential functionality and energy efficiency for everyday kitchen tasks. These appliances are perfect for reheating, defrosting, and preparing quick meals, making them a valuable addition to any home. Embrace the convenience and versatility of a capable 700 watt microwave of your own.