Finding a microwave that fits a 17-inch cabinet or tight counter space without sacrificing cooking performance is a balancing act. Most compact microwaves skimp on wattage or interior room, leaving you with unevenly heated leftovers and a frustrating user experience. The right 17-inch model should heat quickly, offer intuitive controls, and occupy minimal real estate.
I’m Min — the co-founder and writer behind Gadgets Feed. I’ve spent dozens of hours cross-referencing wattage output, turntable diameter, preset menu accuracy, and real-user reports to isolate the units that genuinely deliver on their promises in this specific footprint.
Whether you’re outfitting a dorm room, a small apartment kitchen, or simply maximizing counter space, this guide breaks down the top contenders to help you find the best 17 inch microwave for your needs without wasting time on models that cut too many corners.
How To Choose The Best 17-Inch Microwave
Choosing a 17-inch microwave means balancing width, wattage, and useful features. A unit that fits the shelf but cooks poorly is wasted investment. Here are the critical factors to weigh.
Wattage and Cooking Speed
In compact microwaves, wattage directly determines how fast and evenly your food heats. Models at 700W are adequate for reheating beverages and simple leftovers but struggle with dense items or frozen meals. Jumping to 900W or 1000W reduces cooking time by roughly 20-30%, making a noticeable difference in daily use without requiring a larger chassis.
Interior Capacity and Turntable Size
Total cubic feet (0.7 to 1.2 cu ft) matters less than the actual turntable diameter and usable interior height. A 10.6-inch turntable can hold a standard dinner plate, while a 12.4-inch turntable fits larger bowls and small casserole dishes. Always check the interior depth and turntable size, not just the advertised capacity number.
Controls, Presets, and Convenience Features
Look for models with a mute function if you plan to use the microwave in a bedroom or open-plan living area. A child safety lock is non-negotiable in households with small children. Well-labeled presets for popcorn, potato, and pizza save guesswork, while a dedicated defrost-by-weight option prevents partially cooked edges.
Quick Comparison
On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.
| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOSHIBA ML4-EM12PA(BS) | Premium | Sensor cooking & large plates | 1000W / 12.4″ turntable | Amazon |
| Chefman 1.1 Cu. Ft. | Mid-Range | Fast reheating & quiet operation | 1000W / Mute button | Amazon |
| TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) | Mid-Range | Quality balance of power and size | 900W / 10.6″ turntable | Amazon |
| BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu Ft | Mid-Range | Memory function & sleek design | 900W / 10.6″ turntable | Amazon |
| GE Compact 0.7 Cu Ft | Mid-Range | Solid build & silent mode option | 700W / Compact footprint | Amazon |
| Farberware 0.7 Cu Ft | Budget | Basic reheating & press-and-go | 700W / 6 presets | Amazon |
| Emerson MWR7020W | Budget | Retro style & small spaces | 700W / 5 power levels | Amazon |
In-Depth Reviews
1. TOSHIBA ML4-EM12PA(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven
At 1000W with a 12.4-inch glass turntable, this Toshiba delivers the highest usable interior space in the 17-inch class. The smart sensor automatically adjusts cooking time for common dishes like leftovers and frozen meals, removing guesswork from the equation. The black stainless steel finish resists fingerprints and integrates cleanly into modern kitchens.
The 13 auto menus cover everything from reheat to defrost by weight, and the mute function silences the beep for bedroom use. Users consistently praise the quiet operation and even heating, though the door release requires a firm press that some find slightly stiff. The memory function lets you save frequently used settings, a rare convenience at this size.
This unit is ideal if you need a 17-inch microwave that handles full-sized plates and cooks aggressively without taking up unnecessary counter depth. The 20.6-inch width is standard for the category, and the 11.8-inch height fits under most cabinets with clearance.
Why it’s great
- Smart sensor auto-cooks without manual guessing
- Spacious 12.4″ turntable fits large bowls
- Mute button for silent operation
Good to know
- Door latch requires deliberate force to open
- Cannot manually input cook times like 1:45 — relies on presets and 30-second button
2. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu Ft
The Chefman delivers 1000W in a 1.1 cu ft footprint, making it one of the most powerful options that still fits a 17-inch-wide space. Its three one-touch presets (popcorn, beverage, leftovers) cover the most common daily tasks, and the +30 seconds button provides quick time extensions without menu navigation. The child safety lock is integrated into the handle, requiring an upward pull to open — a unique mechanical safeguard.
Beyond power, the mute button is a standout for quiet environments. The stainless steel exterior resists smudges, and the glass turntable is top-rack dishwasher safe, simplifying cleanup. The 10 power levels include a low setting for melting butter and a max setting for rapid boiling. Some users note the unit vibrates slightly at higher power levels, and customizing timer durations requires consulting the manual.
If you prioritize raw wattage and quiet operation in a 17-inch form factor, the Chefman is an excellent mid-range contender. Just verify the 20.1-inch width fits your dedicated shelf before purchasing.
Why it’s great
- Powerful 1000W shortens cooking time significantly
- Dishwasher-safe turntable for easy cleaning
- Handle-integrated child lock adds physical security
Good to know
- Vibration at high power on lighter countertops
- Timer customization not fully intuitive out of the box
3. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven
This 0.9 cu ft Toshiba strikes a strong balance: 900W output is noticeably faster than 700W units, yet the 18.7-inch width keeps it firmly in the 17-inch class. The 10.6-inch glass turntable accommodates standard dinner plates and medium bowls, and the six preset menus cover popcorn, pizza, potato, and more without overwhelming the interface.
The two-step child lock is straightforward to activate and deactivate, and the bold backlit buttons are easy to read in dim light. Defrost-by-weight and defrost-by-time offer flexibility for frozen ingredient preparation. Users report even heating across the turntable and appreciate the compact external dimensions that leave spare counter space. The primary trade-off is noise — the unit produces a distinct hum and end signal that some find louder than expected.
For shoppers wanting 900W performance at a mid-range price without unnecessary bulk, this Toshiba is a reliable workhorse. Check internal height (7.6 inches) if you frequently heat tall mugs or containers.
Why it’s great
- 900W delivers faster cooking than entry-level microwaves
- Clear LED display and easy-to-read buttons
- Compact width fits tight 17-inch cabinets
Good to know
- Audible hum and beep may be disruptive in quiet spaces
- Interior height limits tall dish compatibility
4. BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu Ft
BLACK+DECKER brings 900W and six auto menus to a 0.9 cu ft package with one-touch start for quick reheating. The memory function lets you program and recall a favorite cook setting, a practical feature for daily routines like morning oatmeal or evening leftovers. The child lock is a mandatory two-step process that can be deactivated if not needed.
The design is clean and understated, with a stainless steel exterior and a digital control panel that offers 10 power levels. The removable turntable handles a 10-inch pizza comfortably. Users mention the heating is accurate and the button layout is easier to learn than some competitors. The caveat: the inner material is plastic rather than stainless steel, which may show wear over time and requires careful cleaning to avoid odors.
If you value a sleek aesthetic and the convenience of a memory function in a compact 900W package, this BLACK+DECKER is a solid mid-range option. Its 18.6-inch width fits 17-inch shelves with minimal overhang.
Why it’s great
- Memory function saves your preferred settings
- Accurate heating with minimal hot spots
- Clean stainless steel design fits modern kitchens
Good to know
- Interior is plastic, not stainless steel
- Mandatory child lock adds a step each use unless deactivated
5. GE Compact Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu Ft
GE’s entry in the 17-inch space focuses on build quality and thoughtful design. The 700W output is sufficient for basic reheating and beverage warming, and the silent mode is a rare find at this tier — the microwave can operate without the end-of-cycle beep. The child lock is a two-step process that can be fully disabled if your household doesn’t need it.
The sleek stainless steel and black glass construction feels premium for its class. The interior is stainless steel, which resists odors and is easier to wipe clean than plastic-lined competitors. Users highlight the quiet close door and dry interior after use, avoiding the condensation pooling common in some budget units. However, some report a glitch where the display shows “FOOD” and refuses to start unless a button is pressed immediately after closing the door.
This GE is ideal for users who want a well-built compact microwave with a legit silent mode and are willing to trade 200W of power for a smaller footprint and higher perceived durability.
Why it’s great
- Silent mode disables all beeps
- Stainless steel interior for easy cleaning
- Child lock fully deactivatable
Good to know
- “FOOD” display glitch can delay start
- 700W limits performance for dense frozen meals
6. Farberware 0.7 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave Oven
The Farberware 0.7 cu ft microwave is a straightforward, no-frills appliance built for simple reheating. At 700W, it handles popcorn, beverages, and leftovers competently, with six one-touch presets including potato and pizza. The LED display includes a kitchen timer and clock, and the easy-clean interior minimizes maintenance.
The child safety lock provides basic protection, and the compact size fits easily on small countertops. Users consistently note the clean stainless steel appearance and reliable performance for basic tasks. However, the door lock can be annoying for some, and the unit lacks advanced features like mute or sensor cooking. It’s louder than premium competitors, particularly during operation and at the end of a cycle.
If you need an affordable 17-inch microwave for a dorm or office break room and don’t require precise defrosting or silent operation, the Farberware delivers dependable utility at a entry-level price point.
Why it’s great
- Six one-touch presets for common foods
- Compact footprint saves counter space
- Reliable basic performance at a budget-friendly tier
Good to know
- No mute function — beeps cannot be silenced
- Door lock mechanism can be inconvenient
7. Emerson MWR7020W Compact Countertop Microwave Oven
The Emerson MWR7020W stands out visually with its retro white finish and chrome handle, bringing a vintage aesthetic to a 0.7 cu ft microwave. At 700W with five power levels and eight auto menus, it covers the basics — popcorn, frozen vegetables, pizza, and beverages — with a straightforward knob and button control interface.
The LED display is clear, and the child safety lock adds security for families. Users love the lightweight build and stylish appearance, but there are meaningful trade-offs. The mechanical knob for time adjustment is less precise than digital touch controls, and the microwaves is notably loud during operation, with one user describing the sound as “deafening.” The 108 MHz frequency specification is non-standard for consumer microwaves and likely a data error — treat it as a conventional 700W unit.
This Emerson is best for style-conscious buyers in small spaces like a dorm or guest kitchen where appearance matters more than cooking speed or whisper-quiet operation. Manage expectations on noise and power level precision.
Why it’s great
- Unique retro white design with chrome accents
- Lightweight and easy to move or mount
- Eight auto menus for quick selection
Good to know
- Loud operation — among the noisier compact models
- Knob-based time adjustment feels imprecise
FAQ
Does a 17-inch microwave have enough power for frozen dinners?
Can I disable the child lock permanently on these microwaves?
Why do some compact microwaves have a mute button and others don’t?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most users, the best 17 inch microwave winner is the TOSHIBA ML4-EM12PA(BS) because it combines 1000W, a 12.4-inch turntable, smart sensor cooking, and a mute button in a package that fits the 17-inch width category. If you want the best power-to-value ratio with quiet operation, grab the Chefman 1.1 Cu Ft. And for a truly compact and durable unit with silent mode at a lower wattage, nothing beats the GE Compact 0.7 Cu Ft.