6 Best Microwaves For Reheating Leftovers That Maximize Every Inch

Every square inch counts when you’re living in a tiny home, RV, or a small apartment with a galley kitchen. The bulky microwave is often the first appliance to feel like an intruder, hogging precious counter space. But giving it up means sacrificing the simple convenience of quickly reheating last night’s dinner, which is why finding the right compact model is a non-negotiable for smart, small-space living.

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Choosing a Compact Microwave for Your Small Space

The biggest mistake I see people make is buying a microwave based on its internal capacity alone. They see "0.7 cubic feet" and assume it’s small, only to find its external dimensions and ventilation requirements eat up half their usable counter. In a small kitchen, the appliance’s total footprint—including the air gap it needs to breathe—is the most critical measurement.

This isn’t just about fitting the box into a hole. It’s about how you use your kitchen every day. A microwave that’s too deep can make the counter in front of it useless for prep work. One with a door that swings too wide can block a walkway or a cabinet. We’re not just looking for a small microwave; we’re looking for one that integrates intelligently into a tight workflow.

Think beyond the basic dimensions. Consider where the power cord is, how far the door swings, and whether the controls are simple enough to use when you’re half-awake and just need to heat up your coffee. The goal is an appliance that feels like a helpful tool, not a constant, clumsy obstacle in your limited space.

Whirlpool WMC20005YB: Unique Corner-Fit Design

This Whirlpool is one of the most innovative small-space designs I’ve ever installed. Its standout feature is the rounded back, which allows it to tuck perfectly into a corner. Most people treat corners as dead space, but this microwave turns that awkward angle into a functional home for an essential appliance, freeing up valuable straight runs of countertop.

At just 0.5 cubic feet and 750 watts, it’s not a powerhouse for cooking a frozen turkey, but that’s not its job. It’s designed specifically for reheating a plate of food, a mug of soup, or a bowl of oatmeal. It excels at its primary mission: warming leftovers without dominating your kitchen. The internal turntable is large enough for a standard 10.5-inch dinner plate, which is the real-world test that matters most.

The tradeoff here is capacity for a perfect fit. You won’t be fitting large casserole dishes in it, but if your main use is reheating single servings, that’s a trade worth making every time. For van builds and tiny homes where every corner is a puzzle piece, this microwave is often the only logical solution.

Panasonic NN-SD372S: Powerful Inverter Technology

If you’re frustrated by microwaves that turn your food into a molten-hot-on-the-outside, frozen-on-the-inside mess, this Panasonic is your answer. It uses what’s called Inverter Technology. Instead of blasting your food with full power in on-and-off cycles, it delivers a steady, consistent stream of lower power, resulting in dramatically more even heating.

This technology makes a huge difference for leftovers. Chicken reheats without becoming rubbery, and pasta doesn’t get crusty around the edges. At 950 watts, it has significantly more power than most compact models, so it heats faster and more effectively. It’s the closest you’ll get to full-size performance in a smaller package.

The catch is its size and price. At 0.8 cubic feet, it’s on the larger end of the "compact" spectrum, so you’ll need to measure carefully. It also comes at a premium price point. But if you value performance and hate poorly reheated food, this is the model to choose for superior results. It’s a small luxury that makes daily life in a tiny kitchen feel less like a compromise.

Galanz GLCMKA07RDR-07: Compact Retro Style Pick

Small-space living doesn’t mean you have to settle for boring, utilitarian appliances. This Galanz model proves that a functional piece of hardware can also be a key design element. Its retro aesthetic, complete with a pull handle and rotary dial, adds a pop of personality that can tie a whole kitchen’s look together.

Functionally, it’s a solid, straightforward machine. With 0.7 cubic feet of space and 700 watts of power, it handles all the basic reheating tasks with ease. I particularly appreciate the simplicity of its controls. Instead of a confusing panel of 20 buttons, you have a simple dial for time and power level, which can be a welcome relief from overly complex interfaces.

This is the perfect pick for someone who wants their appliances to contribute to the overall vibe of their space. Whether you’re designing a vintage-inspired Airstream or just want to add some character to a small studio apartment, the Galanz delivers reliable performance with a style that makes you smile. It’s proof that practical can also be beautiful.

GE JES1072SHSS: A Reliable, No-Frills Workhorse

Sometimes, you don’t need fancy features or a unique design. You just need something that works, day in and day out, without any fuss. This GE model is the definition of a reliable workhorse. It’s the kind of microwave you’ll find in countless rental cabins, office breakrooms, and RVs for one simple reason: it’s dependable and dead simple to operate.

With 700 watts and a 0.7 cubic foot capacity, its specs are standard for the compact category. The control panel is intuitive, with clear "add 30 seconds" and "popcorn" buttons that do exactly what you expect them to. There’s no learning curve here. You plug it in, and it’s ready to go.

This is my go-to recommendation for anyone who prioritizes reliability and ease of use over all else. It’s not the most powerful or the most stylish, but it’s built to last and is backed by a brand with a long-standing reputation. If you just want to heat your food without thinking about it, this is your microwave.

COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB: Top Value for Tight Budgets

When you’re building out a rig or setting up your first small apartment, the budget is everything. The COMFEE’ microwave consistently delivers the best performance for the lowest price, making it a champion for anyone trying to make every dollar count. It offers the standard 0.7 cubic foot capacity and 700-watt power you need for daily reheating tasks.

What sets it apart at this price point are the thoughtful little features. It includes a mute function, which is a huge quality-of-life improvement in a tiny space where every beep and chime can be disruptive, especially if someone is sleeping nearby. It also has an energy-saving eco mode that turns off the display when not in use.

You’re not getting premium build quality or advanced inverter technology here, and that’s okay. What you are getting is a perfectly capable machine that handles the essentials without breaking the bank. For a first-time van build or a supplemental microwave for a basement suite, the value proposition of the COMFEE’ is almost impossible to beat.

Sharp SMC0710BB: Simple and Intuitive Operation

In a world of overly complicated appliances, there’s something to be said for pure simplicity. This Sharp microwave is designed for people who are tired of deciphering cryptic icons and navigating endless sub-menus. The control panel is clean and uncluttered, with one-touch express buttons for 1 to 6 minutes of cooking time.

This intuitive design makes it an excellent choice for a guest space, an elderly parent’s apartment, or anyone who just wants a microwave to function like an appliance, not a computer. It has the standard 0.7 cubic foot, 700-watt configuration, which is perfectly adequate for reheating and defrosting. The carousel is removable for easy cleaning, another practical touch.

The focus here is entirely on user experience. It removes the guesswork and frustration from a simple task. If the idea of programming a multi-stage cooking cycle makes you want to just eat your leftovers cold, this Sharp model offers a refreshingly straightforward alternative.

Key Factors: Wattage, Size, and Venting Needs

Let’s get down to the three things that truly matter when you’re choosing a microwave for a compact space. First is wattage. A 700-watt microwave will take noticeably longer to heat a cup of water than a 1000-watt model. For simply reheating leftovers, 700-750 watts is perfectly fine, but if you plan to cook or defrost often, look for something closer to 900-1000 watts.

Second is size—both inside and out. The internal capacity, measured in cubic feet, tells you how much you can fit inside. A 0.7 cu. ft. model will hold a standard dinner plate, but not much more. The external dimensions are even more critical. Measure your intended space—width, depth, and height—before you even start shopping. Remember to account for the plug in the back, which can add an inch or more to the required depth.

Finally, and most importantly, is venting. Every countertop microwave needs clearance to dissipate heat. Cramming it into a custom-built cabinet without adequate airflow is a fire hazard and will shorten the appliance’s lifespan. As a rule of thumb, plan for at least 1-2 inches of clearance on the sides and back, and a solid 3-4 inches on top. Always check the manufacturer’s specific recommendations, as they can vary. Ignoring this is one of the most common and dangerous mistakes in small kitchen design.

Ultimately, the best microwave is the one that fits your life as well as it fits your counter. Don’t just look at the specs; think about whether you prioritize speed, style, simplicity, or a unique fit. By matching the machine to your real-world needs, you’ll choose an appliance that makes your small space more functional, not more cluttered.