Counter space in a small kitchen is precious, and a microwave takes up a reasonable chunk of it. Choosing the right one means thinking about more than just capacity. Size, power, features, and where it will actually sit all affect whether it works for you day to day.
Start with the footprint, not the capacity
Most people think about litres first, but for a small kitchen the external dimensions are just as important. Two microwaves with the same capacity can have quite different external sizes depending on the brand and design. Measure the space you have available, including the height clearance above it, before you look at any specific model.
A compact countertop microwave typically sits somewhere between 45 and 55cm wide. Some models are shallower than others, which can make a real difference on a narrow worktop.
How much power do you actually need?
Microwave power is measured in watts. Most household models sit between 700W and 1000W. For everyday tasks like reheating leftovers, defrosting, and warming drinks, 700W to 800W is more than adequate. Higher wattage cooks faster, but in a small kitchen where you're mainly reheating rather than cooking from scratch, the difference is marginal.
A manual microwave with a simple dial is straightforward to use and tends to be more reliable over time. Digital controls offer more precision and additional cooking modes, which is useful if you plan to use the microwave for more than basic reheating.
Cello's microwave range includes both manual and digital options, with sizes suited to smaller kitchens.
Solo, grill, or combination?
A solo microwave handles reheating, defrosting, and basic cooking. That covers the vast majority of what most people use a microwave for.
A grill microwave adds a heating element that can brown and crisp food, which is useful if you want to finish dishes without a separate oven. A combination microwave combines microwave, grill, and convection oven functions, but these models tend to be larger and more expensive, which can work against you in a small kitchen.
For most small kitchens, a solo model is the right choice. It does the job, takes up less space, and is simpler to use.
Turntable or flatbed?
Most microwaves use a rotating turntable to heat food evenly. The downside is that the turntable limits the size of dishes you can use, and it needs cleaning regularly.
Flatbed microwaves use a different distribution method that heats food without a turntable. The full floor of the microwave is usable, which means you can fit larger dishes. They're also easier to wipe clean. If counter space is tight and you often use awkward-shaped containers, a flatbed model is worth considering.
Where will it actually go?
A countertop microwave is the most common setup, but in a very small kitchen it can make worktops feel cluttered. Under-cabinet mounting brackets are available for some models and can free up surface space.
Make sure there's enough clearance around the microwave for ventilation. Most models need a few centimetres of space on the sides and top. Fitting it into an enclosed space without airflow shortens the lifespan of the appliance.
Browse the full microwave range to find a model that fits your kitchen and your cooking habits, or take a look at the small kitchen appliances section if you're thinking about updating more than one appliance at once.