Buying guide for best microwaves for dorms
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Heading off to college is an exciting time. You’ll learn new things, make new friends, and enjoy a new kind of independence. Before the hard work in the classroom begins, however, think about your new living space. It’s important to create a room that suits your needs. A microwave for your dorm room can be a big part of that, and it can help ensure that you remain fully fueled as you embrace new challenges in college.
Without home-cooked meals, you’ll be fending for yourself in the food department. The campus cafeteria may be right around the corner, and pizza is always just a phone call away. However, neither of those options are budget-friendly. Nor are they always the healthiest choices.
When you're living in a dorm, a dorm microwave, like our favorite, the Panasonic 1-Cubic-Foot Japanese Microwave, can help you stave off hunger when you’re in a rush, economize when you need to, and satisfy snack cravings when you’re hanging out with pals watching a movie.
Editors’ picks
Panasonic Countertop Microwave Oven
Editors’ Favorite
Dimensions: 18.5" W x 15.3" D x 13.7" H | Capacity: 1 cu ft | Wattage: 1,200 | Material: Stainless steel
Although this Panasonic Countertop Microwave Oven is compact, it comes with impressive features that make it one of the best microwaves for dorms that we’ve found. Powered by inverter technology, it heats consistently for perfect results. It delivers 1,200 watts of power, so it cooks fast and effectively.
Another aspect that we love about this microwave is the unique Japanese design that’s made to resemble an oven. Constructed of stainless steel, it has a pull-down door and flatbed interior with a hidden turntable. Not only does this save space, but it also provides a 1-cubic-foot capacity that will fit numerous types of foods and snacks.
In addition to six preset functions, this microwaves offers Genius Sensor technology that automatically adjusts power and cooking times for specific cooking needs. This takes the guesswork out of making popcorn, reheating leftovers, making pizza and more.
COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven
Great Value
Dimensions: 12.05" W x 11.97" D x 8.11" H | Capacity: 0.7 cu ft | Wattage: 700 | Material: Enameled steel, stainless steel
If you need a small dorm microwave for a small college budget, check out the COMFEE Countertop Microwave Oven. The combination of a streamlined design and 0.7-cubic-foot capacity saves space yet is capable of heating and cooking food for hungry students.
Nine preset functions and 11 power settings make it easy to prepare foods quickly. Powered by 700 watts, it can take a bit of extra time to heat food, but this is a tradeoff that’s worth it for budget-minded shoppers who need a compact microwave.
Students who want quiet during study time will appreciate how easy it is to turn off the sound. What’s more, it has a small LED display that will shut off when eco mode is set. This appeals to those who are disturbed by lights when sleeping, as well as eco-conscious students.
BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven
Easiest to Use
Dimensions: 12.05" W x 11.97" D x 8.11" H | Capacity: 0.7 cu ft | Wattage: 700 | Material: Stainless steel, metal
The Black+Decker Digital Microwave Oven is another affordable and compact option that’s perfect for dorm life. It features a 0.7-cubic-foot capacity and is powered by 700 watts. It will fit nicely in small spaces, such as on a table or shelf, and the stainless steel design looks nice, too.
A sleek control panel and easy-to-read display are features consumers appreciate about this dorm-sized microwave. This model cooks reasonably fast and offers a 30-second express function for heating up food quickly for added convenience when heading out of the dorm to class.
This microwave has presets for pizza, popcorn, beverages, dinner plate, potato and frozen vegetable. These one-touch buttons take the guesswork out of cooking popular food, and simplify cooking on the go or during study time.
Sharp 1.1 cu. ft. Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave Oven
Best Midsized Microwave
Dimensions: 14.7" D x 20.6" W x 11.8" H | Capacity: 1.1 cu. ft. | Wattage: 1,000 | Material: Stainless steel
With 1,000 watts of power, the dorm-friendly Sharp Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave Oven is a bit more powerful than some similar models. At 1.1 cubic feet, it’s also slightly larger. These features make it a good choice for students who like to cook fast, and share what they make with friends.
Ten presets and 10 cooking levels simplify heating and cooking popular foods. Express cooking and auto defrost combined with the wattage allow students to whip up snacks and meals. Although somewhat larger than some others on our list, it’s still compact enough to save space.
We also like that this microwave has a turntable that will fit a full-size dinner plate. While others have limited interior space, this roomier option is ideal for college students who plan to prepare many of their meals in their dorm.
LG NeoChef 1,000W Countertop Microwave
Best High-Power Microwave
Dimensions: 18.75" W x 14" D x 10.69" H | Capacity: 0.9 cu ft | Wattage: 1,000 | Material: Stainless steel
Powered by 1,000 watts, the LG NeoChef 1,000-Watt Countertop Microwave cooks fast. It also has a 0.9-cubic-foot capacity, so it can heat up larger items than some smaller models. Despite these features, it’s a sleek model that works well in small spaces, making it great for dorms.
This microwave also earns praise for cooking fast and evenly thanks to its inverter technology. That, combined with a dozen auto-cook functions, allows consumers to prepare foods with minimal effort. Ten power levels, auto reheat and auto defrost are useful functions that are included in its feature set.
Owners also brag about how easy the stainless steel exterior and smooth EasyClean interior are to clean. This is important for busy college students who don’t have a lot of time to scrub a microwave. The NeoChef is available at a midlevel price, making it a good choice for those who want a bit more power and features without spending a lot of money.
How we analyzed
Microwaves that are perfect for dorms must be compact yet capable of heating convenient meals and snacks quickly. We took this into consideration when we spent eight hours researching 51 microwaves. Wattage, capacity and cooking power are features we included in our guide. Our analysis also consisted of materials, settings, preset functions and mute options. Additionally, we evaluated turntables and LED displays and considered prices and customer feedback. The microwaves we chose for dorm dwellers meet their needs when it comes to size, functionality and features that fit life in small spaces.
Key considerations
Dorm rules and regulations
Not every dorm allows students to have microwaves in their rooms. Don’t waste money on this type of appliance if it’s not allowed. A peek at your college’s website may also include a list of items already included in your soon-to-be living quarters. Many dorms have communal spaces, which often include things like microwaves and fridges. Also, if you’re rooming with someone else, you may be able to split your purchases, so you’re not doubling up on items.
Microwave size
You could buy any microwave and stick it in your dorm room, of course, but in a small space, you’re better off opting for a compact unit. It’s doubtful you’ll need to whip up microwave dinners for a crowd, so most mini models would probably work out just fine. Thankfully, compact units are typically cheaper and lighter than standard-size options.
When browsing microwaves, pay attention to the internal dimensions, which are usually listed in cubic feet. For tight spaces, opt for a unit with under one cubic foot of interior space. Check the exterior dimensions, too. Some microwaves billed as “compact” are surprisingly big on the outside.
Finding a spot for your microwave
Is your dorm room partially furnished? Is there a dresser where you can set your new microwave? If not, you’ll need to purchase a small table or shelf.
Cooking power
Compact microwaves aren’t necessarily less powerful than standard-size units, but check the wattage before making your final purchase. More wattage translates to faster cook times and a higher price tag, but if speed isn’t a priority, feel free to spend less. Still, if a microwave offers significantly less than 700 watts of power, cooking times will increase greatly.
Power supply
Don’t forget to check whether there’s a nearby outlet! Your microwave needs electricity to run.
Features
Design and construction
Microwave designs vary considerably. Choose a sleek stainless steel model to accent a modern dorm room, or select a colorful retro-style unit to add a bit of whimsy to your living space.
Cook settings
Take a quick peek at the buttons on the appliance you’re considering. Do you want specialized cook settings like “Defrost” or “Keep Warm”? Fancier microwaves have built-in sensors that take the guesswork out of cooking food and automatically decide on the optimal time and power level required to heat your meals. The style of controls varies from model to model, as well. Do you prefer a simple knob interface or big, easy-to-read buttons?
Pre-programmed functions
You can avoid allocating brainpower to cooking microwave foods and leave the thinking up to the appliance. Simply choose a unit with preset cooking functions that heat certain foods for a pre-programmed amount of time. If popcorn is your favorite snack, a popcorn button is a must-have!
Minute button
A “Minute” function allows for quick and efficient heating with the touch of a button. Need to cook your food a little longer than expected? A simple press of the minute button is all that’s required.
Sound muting
Loud beeping is sure to wake your roommate when you’re zapping a quesadilla in the middle of the night. Choose a microwave with a mute setting to avoid bothering anyone else, whether they’re studying or snoozing.
Turntable
Many microwaves have turntables that rotate slowly during the cooking process to help evenly heat your food. If you choose a microwave with this feature, make sure that the turntable is removable so you can wash it as needed.
LED display
Cook in the dark of night with the help of an LED display and backlit buttons, but know that this minor light pollution may affect your sleep. Can the lights be disabled? If not, you may want to opt for a different model, especially if you’re a light sleeper.
Accessories
Here are a few accessories you may want to pack, along with your new dorm microwave:
- Microwave cleaner: If microwave grime and splatters hardens over time, it’s hard to clean up with a simple wipe. When that happens, simply fill your microwave cleaning tool with water and lemon juice and zap for seven minutes to steam loose those stubborn bits of food. We love the Angry Mama microwave cleaner from TOPIST, and we think your favorite college student will, too.
- Microwave-safe dishes: Buy a set of inexpensive dishes for your dorm room that won’t overheat and are safe to use in the microwave. These colorful plastic bowls from Youngever may be just perfect for popcorn and other snacks.
- Microwave pasta maker: You don’t need a fully equipped stovetop to enjoy a satisfying bowl of pasta. Fill one of these with water — like Fasta Pasta’s Microwave Pasta Cooker. Add your favorite pasta, microwave, then open up a jar of your favorite sauce. Hello, Dorm Gourmet.
Microwaves for dorms prices
Compact microwaves are usually less expensive than regular-size units, so don’t worry about breaking the bank to outfit your room. Expect to pay under $100 for a compact microwave for your dorm with an internal capacity of under one cubic foot.
The closer the interior space is to one cubic foot, the higher the price tag will be. You’ll also pay more for a microwave with higher wattage. Microwaves with sensors and pre-programmed settings also tend to cost more than pared-down units with simple interfaces.
Tips
- On a budget? Ramen noodles are the king of microwave meals. Unfortunately, these instant soups are not particularly nutritious. Try bumping them up a notch nutritionally by adding fresh or frozen vegetables.
- Use your microwave to steam veggies. Steam them as a side dish with dinner — or for an anytime snack.
- If your food heats unevenly, try cooking it in short increments. Cook for 30 to 60 seconds, remove, stir, and heat again as needed.
- Did you know that you can enjoy breakfast straight from your microwave? Buy English muffins, microwave bacon, and a microwave egg cooker to whip up a hearty morning meal.
- Enjoy quick desserts with your microwave. You can find recipes for many different flavors of microwave mug cakes.
FAQ
Q. Is there anything I shouldn’t put in my microwave?
A. Avoid putting anything made of paper in your microwave. It may catch fire. Also, be careful when heating anything in a plastic container. Check that it’s microwave-safe first. And, of course, anything made of metal or wrapped in aluminum foil should stay out of your microwave.
Q. How can I prevent food from splattering the interior of my microwave?
A. Use a plate to cover your bowl or a bowl to cover your plate before starting up your microwave. Alternatively, you could buy a special microwave food cover to prevent nasty messes inside your unit.
Q. Can I put my microwave anywhere in my dorm?
A. Avoid putting it on the floor. You’ll only be wasting space. Don’t store it up too high, either. Accidents and spills are more likely to occur if you’re always struggling to reach inside your microwave.
