Low wattage microwaves can be quite advantageous when you are on a budget or you simply don’t have a lot of counter space to spare. They are usually more affordable than high wattage units and they are typically built smaller.
This makes them an ideal choice for tight spaces like studio apartments or dorm rooms. They can also be great for RV’s since they don’t draw a lot of power and are compact. So if you’re interested in one of these appliances, take a look at our list of the best low wattage microwaves!
Black+Decker EM720CB7 Digital Microwave
Editors’ Choice: 4.8 out of 5.0 stars
Black + Decker is a brand name that has been around for a very long time and is very well-trusted. With the Black+Decker EM720CB7 Digital Microwave, the company offers a compact 17” x 10.2 x 13” 700 watt microwave.
The interior turntable is 10 inches in diameter so you still get a good amount of space for heating up a plate or even a full Tupperware of food. There are pre-set power modes for popcorn, pizza and other foods and the large LED display clearly shows you the timer and functions as a clock.
As far as looks go the Black+Decker EM720CB7 Digital Microwave has a clean stainless steel and black outer frame and there is also a 30-second express cooking option. This is a great microwave for any small space.
Comfee EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven
Editors’ Choice: 4.8 out of 5.0 stars
This is another 700 watt microwave that comes in all black. The EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven allows for 0.7 cubic feet if internal cooking space and features 11 power levels which include preset cooking modes.
For those pressed for time, there are 6 express cooking modes. Simply push buttons 1-6 to automatically set the microwave to cook between one and six minutes. All of the buttons on this microwave are very easy to read and you can mute the finish cooking sound if you like.
This is a convenient little microwave to have if you have roommates and don’t want to disturb them when you are re-heating your meals. There is also a handy eco mode that cuts the power by 50% to save energy.
Farberware Countertop Microwave
Editors’ Choice: 4.7 out of 5.0 stars
This Farberware microwave is a bit more powerful but still pretty compact overall. It can operate at 1000 watts but is still only 20.2 inches wide, 16.5 inches deep and 12 inches tall. The interior space is also larger at 14 inches wide and 9 inches tall.
There is an interior LED light so you can keep an eye on your food as it cooks and there are 6 preset power modes for foods like popcorn, potatoes and pizza. This small low wattage microwave is controlled via easy to read buttons and an LED timer display.
There is also a child safety lock on the door for all of you with little ones running around the kitchen. The turntable of the Farberware Countertop Microwave is 12.5 inches in diameter so again, you have a bit more wiggle room in terms of space.
Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN966S
Editors’ Choice: 4.7 out of 5.0 stars
If a lower wattage microwave isn’t really an option for you, consider the Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN966S. It operates at 1250 watts so it can heat food a bit quicker than the other microwaves on our list so far.
There is a lot of cool technology packed into this microwave too. For starters, it can keep your food warm inside after the timer is already done. There is also a sensor that adjusts the power according to what types of foods you put into it.
There are also 14 preset power levels for different foods. The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN966S heats up food very quickly and can also defrost frozen foods rapidly. The interior turntable is 16.5 inches so it can fit the biggest plates.
Farberware Classic FMO07AHTBKJ 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700-Watt Microwave Oven
Editors’ Choice: 4.6 out of 5.0 stars
The Farberware Classic FMO07AHTBKJ 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700-Watt Microwave Oven offers 6 express cooking times (one to six minutes) and there is also a convenient button for when you want to add just 30 seconds to the cooking time.
The exterior sports a beautiful brushed stainless steel finish so it would match the décor of many different kitchens and it’s easy to clean. This is also a very compact microwave at just 17 inches wide, 10 inches tall and 12.9 inches deep.
Because of the compact design and low wattage (700 watts), this would make a great low wattage microwave for RV use. Plus, it’s a great price! You can score the Farberware Classic FMO07AHTBKJ 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700-Watt Microwave Oven for just around $90.
Low Wattage Microwave Buying Guide
Low wattage microwaves can be tricky because you will need varying levels of power from time to time. In order to get the best low wattage microwave for your needs, consider the following:
Eco Modes
A lot of people pick up low wattage microwaves to save money on energy. To get the best savings though, try to opt for one that has a specific Eco or energy-saving mode.
Power Cord Length
It may seem like a small thing but that’s exactly why most people overlook it. Make sure the power cord can accommodate your outlets in the kitchen. No one wants to have to run an ugly extension cord through their kitchen.
Cooking Times
Keep in mind that lower wattage microwaves will take longer to cook and reheat foods. If time is of the essence to you, maybe a higher wattage microwave would be better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the lowest wattage microwave?
A: The lowest wattage microwave you can get is a 500 watt model.
Q: Is a low watt microwave better?
A: It depends on your needs. For smaller kitchens, lower watt microwaves tend to work well because they don’t eat up a lot of space.
Q: Is 950 watts enough for a microwave?
A: Yes. 950 watts is a moderately powered microwave that will work for most home cooking needs.
Parting Words
There you have it. That’s our list of the best low wattage microwaves currently available online. We do have one more thing to leave you with though. When buying a low wattage microwave, be sure that you will have use for it for at least a couple of years.
If you plan on moving into a bigger place sooner than that, it may be wiser to just invest in a higher-capacity microwave and live with the short-term space usage. Low wattage microwaves are still great for RV’s and dorm rooms though so be sure to check these models out!
