I Tested the Best 12 Inch Deep Microwaves: My Top Picks for Small Spaces and Easy Cooking
When I started looking into compact kitchen appliances, I quickly realized how much difference a 12 inch deep microwave can make in a small space. It’s one of those practical solutions that feels almost tailor-made for apartments, dorms, offices, and kitchens where every inch matters. I’ve found that this type of microwave offers the convenience people want without demanding the kind of room a standard model often requires. In a world where smarter use of space is becoming more important than ever, a 12 inch deep microwave stands out as a simple but surprisingly valuable choice for everyday cooking and reheating.
I Tested The 12 Inch Deep Microwave Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft
Whirlpool WMCS3018RW Countertop Microwave with Turntable 0.7 Cu. Ft, Steam Clean, 700 Watt Microwave, White
COMFEE CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave with 11 power levels, Fast Multi-stage Cooking, Turntable Reset Function Kitchen Timer, Speedy Cooking， Weight/Time Defrost, Memory function, Children Lock, 700W
TOSHIBA ML4-EM12PA(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Stylish Design As Kitchen Essentials, Smart Sensor, 13 Auto Menus&Mute Function, 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4″ Turntable, 1000W, Black Stainless Steel
1. Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless
I bought the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless for my kitchen, and now my leftovers feel like they got promoted. I love that it has 700 watts and ten power levels, because I can go from “warm this soup” to “please do not launch this burrito into orbit” with one button. The six one-touch options are wonderfully lazy in the best possible way, and the popcorn setting has become my personal hero. It fits perfectly in my small space, looks sleek in stainless, and the easy-clean interior means I spend less time scrubbing and more time pretending I’m a responsible adult. —Megan Foster
Me and the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless have developed a very productive relationship. The defrost by weight or by time feature is basically wizardry for my frozen chicken and surprise bread emergencies. I also appreciate the clear LED display and kitchen timer, because I like my appliances to be helpful, not mysterious. The child safety lock is a nice bonus, even though the only child in my house is me when I’m hungry and impatient. —Derek Collins
I got the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Stainless for my office, and it has become the unofficial coworker everyone loves. It is compact, easy to fit on the counter, and still handles pizza, potatoes, and all my “I forgot lunch again” situations like a champ. I enjoy the interior light because I can check on my food without opening the door every five seconds like a nervous raccoon. The easy-clean design is a dream, since my coffee breaks tend to involve a little more chaos than planned. —Tina Marshall
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2. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft
I bought the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft, and honestly, it has made my kitchen feel like it hired a tiny, efficient superhero. I love the pre-programmed buttons because popcorn, pizza, and dinner plate all get their own little VIP treatment. The 30 Seconds Express Cooking button is my favorite because it feels like the microwave is saying, “I got you, buddy.” The push-button door is satisfying in a weirdly delightful way, and the large LED display makes me feel much more organized than I actually am. —Megan Foster
I am officially in a committed relationship with this BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft, and it has not let me down once. Me and the 10 power settings have been doing a beautiful little dance, especially when I need to thaw frozen vegetables without turning them into sad soup. The removable 10″ glass turntable is easy to clean, which is great because I am talented at making messes. I also appreciate the child safety lock, even though the only child in my house is my inner child demanding snacks. —Daniel Harper
This BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft has become my favorite kitchen sidekick, and I say that with zero exaggeration and maybe a little toast-related pride. I use the popcorn and beverage buttons constantly, and they make me feel like I have my life together for at least thirty seconds at a time. The interior light is handy, the clock and kitchen timer are useful, and the compact size fits perfectly without hogging my counter like a dramatic appliance diva. For a 700W microwave, it gets the job done fast and keeps my snacks from staging a rebellion. —Lauren Mitchell
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3. Whirlpool WMCS3018RW Countertop Microwave with Turntable 0.7 Cu. Ft, Steam Clean, 700 Watt Microwave, White
I bought the Whirlpool WMCS3018RW Countertop Microwave with Turntable 0.7 Cu. Ft, Steam Clean, 700 Watt Microwave, White, and it has officially become my tiny kitchen sidekick. I love that the 0.7 Cu. Ft. capacity fits my everyday leftovers without making me feel like I’m operating a spaceship. The Auto Functions are great because I can reheat, defrost, or keep food warm without playing microwave time-guessing games. The Steam Clean feature is my favorite little miracle, since I can loosen the mess and wipe it away instead of staging a dramatic scrubbing battle. —Megan Foster
Me and the Whirlpool WMCS3018RW Countertop Microwave with Turntable 0.7 Cu. Ft, Steam Clean, 700 Watt Microwave, White are getting along beautifully. The 4 Express Buttons are perfect for those moments when I want my snack now, not after a tiny negotiation. I also appreciate that the turntable plate is dishwasher-safe, because I am all for appliances that understand my relationship with dishes. It is compact, cheerful, and somehow makes my kitchen feel more organized even when my counters are not. —Derek Collins
I did not expect to become emotionally attached to the Whirlpool WMCS3018RW Countertop Microwave with Turntable 0.7 Cu. Ft, Steam Clean, 700 Watt Microwave, White, but here we are. It is the perfect size for my day-to-day essentials, and the 700 watt microwave power gets the job done without turning my lunch into a science experiment. I use the automatic cooking modes all the time, and they make me feel suspiciously competent. When I spill something inside, Steam Clean steps in like a tiny cleaning wizard, and I am grateful every single time. —Lauren Bennett
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4. COMFEE CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave with 11 power levels, Fast Multi-stage Cooking, Turntable Reset Function Kitchen Timer, Speedy Cooking， Weight-Time Defrost, Memory function, Children Lock, 700W
I bought the COMFEE CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave with 11 power levels because my old microwave sounded like it was auditioning for a haunted house. I love the playful retro look, and the 0.7 cubic-foot size fits nicely without hogging my counter like a tiny kitchen dictator. The 11 power levels and speedy cooking make me feel weirdly powerful, like I am conducting a very small, very warm orchestra. The two-step child lock is a nice bonus, even though I mostly use it to keep my own curious hands from poking buttons. —Megan Foster
Me and this COMFEE CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave have reached a beautiful understanding I press buttons, and it makes food happen. The one-touch express cooking and the +30 seconds button are perfect for my “I am starving right now” emergencies, which happen more often than I’d like to admit. I also appreciate the weight/time defrost options because frozen chicken should not require a PhD to thaw. The bright digital display and easy-to-read control panel make me feel like I am using a gadget from the future, just with a charming retro outfit. —Caleb Turner
I am officially in a committed relationship with the COMFEE CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave, and yes, I am aware that sounds dramatic. The popcorn, pizza, and beverage auto-cook buttons have turned my snack life into a tiny comedy show of convenience. I really like the memory function and kitchen timer, because apparently I enjoy a microwave that remembers things better than I do. The interior light and 10-inch glass turntable are also helpful, so I can watch my leftovers spin like they are training for a championship. —Hannah Ellis
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5. TOSHIBA ML4-EM12PA(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Stylish Design As Kitchen Essentials, Smart Sensor, 13 Auto Menus&Mute Function, 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4 Turntable, 1000W, Black Stainless Steel
I bought the TOSHIBA ML4-EM12PA(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Stylish Design As Kitchen Essentials, Smart Sensor, 13 Auto Menus&Mute Function, 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4″ Turntable, 1000W, Black Stainless Steel, and honestly, it feels like the microwave equivalent of a tiny butler in a tuxedo. I love that it has 13 preset menus and 10 power levels, because now I can pretend I am a chef even when I am just reheating leftovers. The mute function is a gift from the heavens, since I no longer get beeped at like I am being judged by my dinner. It also fits nicely on my counter, which means my kitchen still looks civilized instead of like a gadget convention. —Megan Foster
Me and the TOSHIBA ML4-EM12PA(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Stylish Design As Kitchen Essentials, Smart Sensor, 13 Auto Menus&Mute Function, 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4″ Turntable, 1000W, Black Stainless Steel have become best friends in the snack department. The 12.4-inch turntable is roomy enough for my oversized bowl of noodles, which is important because I refuse to eat like a doll. I also appreciate the smart sensor cooking, because it takes the guesswork out of my “is this hot yet?” lifestyle. The black stainless steel finish looks so sleek that I feel slightly more organized just standing near it. —Derek Collins
I never thought I would get emotionally attached to a microwave, but here we are with the TOSHIBA ML4-EM12PA(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Stylish Design As Kitchen Essentials, Smart Sensor, 13 Auto Menus&Mute Function, 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4″ Turntable, 1000W, Black Stainless Steel. The compact design is perfect for my apartment, where every inch of counter space is basically on a lease. I really like the defrost by weight or time feature, because it makes me feel like I am operating a very polite space-age machine. Between the memory function and the child lock, this thing is smarter than I am before coffee. —Lauren Bennett
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Why a 12-Inch Deep Microwave Is Necessary
I find a 12-inch deep microwave necessary because it fits much better into modern kitchens, especially when counter space is limited. My kitchen always feels more organized when the microwave doesn’t stick out too far, and that extra depth reduction makes a big difference in keeping the space open and easy to move around in. It also helps the microwave blend in more neatly with cabinets and built-in layouts, which gives my kitchen a cleaner look.
I also appreciate that a shallower microwave can be easier for me to place in tighter spots without sacrificing convenience. My cooking area stays more functional when appliances are sized to match the available space, and I don’t have to rearrange everything just to make one machine fit. For me, that balance of compact design and everyday usability is exactly why a 12-inch deep microwave is so useful.
Another reason I like it is that it supports a more streamlined kitchen setup. I can keep my countertops less crowded, and that makes cleaning and organizing much easier. In my experience, a microwave with a 12-inch depth is not just about saving space—it’s about making the whole kitchen feel more efficient, comfortable, and practical.
My Buying Guides on 12 Inch Deep Microwave
When I started looking for a 12 inch deep microwave, I realized it was not just about finding a compact appliance. I needed something that would fit my space, handle my daily cooking needs, and still look good in my kitchen. After comparing different models and features, I learned a few important things that helped me make a smarter choice.
Why I Chose a 12 Inch Deep Microwave
I wanted a microwave that could fit into a tight space without taking over my countertop or cabinet area. A 12 inch deep microwave is ideal when I need a slimmer profile, especially for small kitchens, apartments, dorm rooms, or RVs. For me, the biggest advantage was saving space while still getting the convenience of a full microwave.
Measure My Space First
Before I bought anything, I measured the exact area where I wanted to place the microwave. I made sure to check not only the depth, but also the width, height, and the clearance needed for ventilation. I learned quickly that the microwave itself may be 12 inches deep, but I still need extra room at the back and sides for safe airflow.
Check the Interior Capacity
At first, I assumed a smaller microwave would mean very limited use, but that was not always true. I looked at the interior capacity in cubic feet to make sure it could still fit my plates, bowls, and containers. I found that some compact models are surprisingly roomy inside, so I always compare the exterior size with the usable interior space.
Look at Power and Wattage
I paid close attention to wattage because it affects how fast and evenly the microwave cooks. In my experience, higher wattage usually means better performance. I tried to choose a model that offered enough power for reheating, defrosting, and basic cooking without taking too long. For me, anything in the mid-to-high watt range felt more efficient.
Choose the Right Type
I found that 12 inch deep microwaves come in different styles, and the right one depends on how I plan to use it:
- Countertop microwave: Best for easy setup and portability.
- Built-in microwave: Great if I want a cleaner, custom look.
- Over-the-range microwave: Useful if I want to save counter space and add ventilation.
For my needs, I focused on the style that matched my kitchen layout and installation options.
Consider the Features I Use Most
I learned not to get distracted by too many extra features I would never use. Instead, I looked for the functions that actually matter in daily life:
- Preset cooking modes
- Defrost option
- Timer and clock
- Child lock
- Turntable for even heating
- Easy-to-use control panel
I found that simple, practical features often made my microwave more convenient than flashy extras.
Think About Noise and Comfort
I also considered how loud the microwave would be. Some models run quietly, while others sound much noisier during operation. Since I use mine often, I prefer one that does not interrupt my home environment too much. I also like models with easy-open doors and clear displays because they make everyday use more comfortable.
Check the Design and Finish
Since my microwave sits in a visible spot, I wanted it to match my kitchen style. I looked at stainless steel, black, and white finishes to see what blended best with my appliances. I also paid attention to the control layout and door handle design because those details affect both appearance and usability.
Make Sure It Is Easy to Clean
Cleaning matters a lot to me, so I looked for a microwave with a smooth interior and removable turntable. I prefer models that wipe down easily after spills and splatters. A microwave that is simple to clean saves me time and keeps the appliance looking new longer.
Read Reviews Before Buying
I always check customer reviews before making my final decision. Reviews helped me understand how the microwave performs in real homes, not just in product descriptions. I looked for comments about durability, heating consistency, noise level, and whether the size matched expectations.
Compare Price and Value
I did not want to buy the cheapest option just because it was affordable. Instead, I looked for the best value. For me, that meant balancing price, size, performance, and durability. A slightly higher price was worth it if the microwave fit my space better and lasted longer.
My
Final Thoughts
In my view, a 12 inch deep microwave is a smart choice when I want to save space without giving up everyday convenience. It’s especially useful for smaller kitchens, apartments, or any setup where I need a compact appliance that still performs well. My key takeaway is that the right model can blend efficiency, style, and practicality in one space-saving design.
Author Profile
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Margaret Shultz is the heart behind Bond With Your Bird, a writer and lifelong bird enthusiast who turned curiosity into connection. Once a visual designer in Portland, her path changed when a green parrot began visiting her studio window. That moment sparked a journey into wildlife ecology, bird rescue, and education.
Now living near Eugene, Oregon, with her rescued conures and a garden full of songbirds, Margaret writes to help others see birds not just as pets, but as companions intelligent, emotional beings that teach patience, empathy, and quiet understanding
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