Best Microwaves for Studio Apartments

Studio apartment kitchens are often just a small counter, a mini-fridge, and two feet of workspace. Every inch of counter matters. The models below are 20 inches wide or less with a capacity of 1.2 cubic feet or less — sized for one or two people without overwhelming the space. They're all countertop models: no installation, no landlord permission required.

• ✓ In a studio kitchen, think about what the microwave will sit next to — a right-hinged door that opens into a cabinet is a daily annoyance.
• ✓ 0.9–1.1 cu ft is the practical sweet spot for a studio: fits a full bowl or plate without the large external footprint of a 1.5+ cu ft unit.
• ✓ Avoid high-wattage models (1200W+) in studios — they can overwhelm shared building electrical panels, especially in older buildings.
• ✓ A built-in timer/clock on the microwave is more useful than it sounds in a studio where wall space for a kitchen clock is limited.
• ✓ Weight matters if you move frequently — compact models under 25 lbs are noticeably easier to move between apartments.

206 models in this guide