Finding a microwave that slides into a tight 13-inch counter gap without looking like an afterthought is a specific kind of kitchen puzzle. Most standard models push 16 to 18 inches deep, leaving you with overhang that blocks outlets or forces a complete countertop rearrangement. A true 13-inch depth microwave solves that exact spatial constraint — it sits flush where full-size units cannot.
I’m Min — the co-founder and writer behind Gadgets Feed. I’ve pored over hundreds of spec sheets and real-user reports to pinpoint the models that actually deliver on their depth claims while still heating evenly, resisting wear, and offering the power levels that make daily reheating feel effortless rather than frustrating.
Whether you’re outfitting a compact apartment kitchen, a dorm room, or a secondary office bar, this guide filters the noise to help you land the right 13 inch depth microwave for your counter.
How To Choose The Best 13 Inch Depth Microwave
Selecting a microwave that stays within a 13-inch depth means balancing external footprint against internal capacity, power output, and the everyday usability features that prevent frustration. Here are the critical factors to weigh.
Verify the Real Depth — Not Just the Spec Sheet
Many listings advertise an overall depth that excludes the rear vent protrusion, handle overhang, or plug clearance. Measure your own counter space front-to-back, then cross-reference the manufacturer’s total external dimensions — including the 1–2 inches needed for rear ventilation and the plug to bend. A microwave that lists 13.2 inches on paper might still require 14.5 inches of clear space once installed.
Wattage: 700W vs 900W vs 1000W
Lower wattage (700W) microwaves take noticeably longer to heat leftovers and often struggle with even cooking, especially on dense foods like casseroles or frozen entrées. A 900W unit offers a meaningful speed boost and more consistent heating. Premium models hitting 1000–1100W can shave 20–30% off cook times and produce better results on items like popcorn and fresh vegetables, though they often have slightly larger rear footprints.
Interior Capacity and Turntable Diameter
A compact outer depth usually means a smaller turntable. Look for at least a 10.6-inch glass tray — that size comfortably fits a standard dinner plate. Avoid units with turntables under 10 inches if you regularly reheat full meals or use oval serving bowls. Also examine the interior height: 7.5 inches or more lets you stand a coffee mug upright without scraping the ceiling.
Child Lock and Control Panel Design
Several models now ship with a mandatory two-step child lock that engages every time the microwave is opened, which adds an extra tap before every use. If you don’t need that feature, confirm the lock can be permanently disabled via instructions. Also check whether the touchpad buttons are membrane-style (prone to wear and peeling over a year) versus hard plastic or glass controls that hold up better to daily pressing.
Quick Comparison
On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.
| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LG NeoChef | Premium | Even heating and quiet operation | 1000W Smart Inverter | Amazon |
| GE Compact 1.1 Cu Ft | Premium | Spacious interior in a compact shell | 950W / 1.1 cu ft capacity | Amazon |
| Emerson MWG1191SB | Premium | Built-in grilling and browning | 1100W with Grill Function | Amazon |
| Sharp SMC0962KS | Mid-Range | Quiet operation and durable build | 900W / 10.6″ Carousel | Amazon |
| TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) | Mid-Range | Mute function and easy-to-read panel | 900W / 10.6″ turntable | Amazon |
| Kenmore 0.9 Cu Ft | Mid-Range | Matching other Kenmore appliances | 900W / 13.56″ depth | Amazon |
| BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu Ft | Mid-Range | Memory function and one-touch start | 900W / 13.2″ depth | Amazon |
| Farberware 0.7 Cu Ft | Budget | Price-conscious small counter fits | 700W / compact footprint | Amazon |
| Commercial Chef CHM7MS | Budget | Ultra-slim and lightweight | 700W / 12.6″ depth | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. LG Countertop Microwave NeoChef
The LG NeoChef stands apart in the 13-inch depth category because of its Smart Inverter technology, which delivers consistent power rather than pulsing on and off. That means a bowl of soup heats evenly without cold spots and defrost cycles don’t cook the edges before the center thaws. At 1000 watts, it’s among the most powerful units that still fit within the tight depth constraint.
The glass touch control panel feels far more premium than the membrane buttons found on most competitors, and the EasyClean interior — a single-piece coated cavity — makes wiping away splatters simple. Users consistently praise the rock-solid 12-inch turntable that stays locked during rotation, accommodating full dinner plates without wobble.
On the downside, the touch controls have a slight processing lag when pressed, and the stainless finish shows fingerprints quickly. But for those who prioritize even heating, quiet operation, and a truly flush counter fit, this is the most refined option available.
Why it’s great
- Smart Inverter produces evenly cooked food without hot spots
- Glass touch panel resists wear and looks sleek
- EasyClean interior simplifies maintenance
Good to know
- Touch controls exhibit slight input delay
- Stainless surface smudges easily
2. GE Compact Countertop Microwave 1.1 Cu Ft
GE manages to squeeze 1.1 cubic feet of interior volume into a cabinet that measures just over 15.6 inches deep, making it the most spacious option for those who refuse to sacrifice capacity for counter space. The 950-watt output delivers a noticeable speed advantage over 700W models, and the stainless steel inner cavity resists staining and odors better than painted plastic interiors.
Users consistently report even heating across frozen entrées and leftovers, and the weight-defrost function works accurately for meats. The exterior keeps a clean metallic look that blends with other stainless appliances, and the 39-inch power cord offers flexibility in outlet placement.
The mandatory two-step child lock engages every time the door opens, which several owners find annoying. Disabling it requires holding 7, 8, and 9 simultaneously — a workaround buried in the manual. If you don’t need child safety, plan to deactivate it immediately on setup.
Why it’s great
- Largest interior capacity (1.1 cu ft) in a sub-16-inch depth
- Stainless steel cavity resists stains and odors
- 950W heats faster than entry-level units
Good to know
- Child lock reactivates on every door close
- Door button requires firm pressure to open
3. Emerson MWG1191SB 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave with Grill
The Emerson MWG1191SB is the only model in this lineup that doubles as a countertop grill, using a built-in quartz heating element to brown casseroles, crisp pizza edges, and finish sandwiches with grill marks. At 1100 watts pure microwave power, it cooks aggressively — users note burn times may be shorter than recipe directions suggest, so dialing down the power level is wise for sensitive dishes.
The vintage-style chrome handle and retro button layout give it a distinct look that stands out against the sea of standard stainless rectangles. The 1.1 cu ft capacity and removable glass turntable handle large plates well, and the nine preset cooking options cover most common food categories.
Condensation buildup inside the cavity is more noticeable than on standard microwaves, likely because the grill function generates additional steam. A few users also reported unit failures within the first year, so checking the warranty and return window before purchase is recommended.
Why it’s great
- Built-in grill browns and crisps food beyond standard microwave heating
- 1100W delivers the fastest cook times in this category
- Stylish retro design with chrome handle
Good to know
- Condensation buildup more noticeable than standard models
- Reliability concerns reported by some users
4. Sharp SMC0962KS 0.9 Cu Ft Microwave
Sharp brings its reputation for long-lasting microwave engineering to a compact 0.9 cu ft package that runs noticeably quieter than the competition. The 10.6-inch Carousel turntable ensures even rotation, and the 900-watt output hits the sweet spot between speed and gentle reheating. Owners consistently report that this unit heats more evenly than previous 700W models they owned.
The redesigned gray interior and white LED display modernize the look, while the dedicated +30-second key and express cook buttons up to 6 minutes simplify daily use. Users can also disable the end-of-cycle beeps, a small but appreciated quality-of-life feature for late-night reheating. The child lock can be permanently turned off, avoiding the friction that plagues other models.
The interior LED light is dimmer than most — some owners describe it as “cold white” — and the 900W runs slightly slower than 1000W units when cooking dense frozen meals. But for quiet operation and build quality that often outlasts the competition, the Sharp is a solid mid-range choice.
Why it’s great
- Very quiet operation and smooth door open/close
- 10.6-inch turntable stays aligned and wobble-free
- Child lock can be disabled permanently
Good to know
- Interior light is dim compared to competitors
- 900W cooks slightly slower than 1000W units
5. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) 0.9 Cu Ft Microwave
Toshiba’s ML-EM09PA delivers a rare feature for this price tier: a mute function that silences all beeps without requiring a hidden button combo. For anyone who reheates meals early in the morning or late at night, that alone justifies the upgrade from cheaper alternatives. The 900-watt output and 10.6-inch glass turntable pair well with standard dinner plates, and the stainless steel inner cavity is much easier to wipe clean than plastic liners.
The 6 preset menus cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverage, and dinner plate — the six most-used categories. Users consistently mention that the bold, bright buttons are easy to read even in low-light kitchens, and the child lock is simple enough to set or disable without reaching for the manual.
Noise level is the main compromise: several owners describe this unit as louder than expected during operation, especially compared to the Sharp or LG. The turntable may also produce a slight scraping sound if not perfectly centered after cleaning. Still, for the combination of mute capability and stainless interior, it’s a strong mid-range pick.
Why it’s great
- Dedicated mute function silences all beeps
- Stainless steel interior resists odor and staining
- Bold, backlit control buttons are easy to read
Good to know
- Operating noise is above average
- Turntable may scrape if not reseated perfectly
6. Kenmore 0.9 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave
Kenmore’s 0.9 cu ft microwave is designed to visually match the brand’s other countertop appliances, making it a natural choice for kitchens already stocked with Kenmore toasters or coffee makers. The 13.56-inch depth is borderline for a tight 13-inch requirement — measure carefully — but the 900-watt output and 6 preset cooking menus deliver reliable everyday performance.
The control panel includes express cook buttons (1 to 6 minutes) and a defrost feature that works by time or weight. Owners who bought the microwave to complete a matching set are generally satisfied with the stainless steel finish and straightforward interface. Cleanup is simple thanks to the stainless inner cavity.
The mandatory child lock activates on every door close and must be unlocked before each use, which several users find tedious. More critically, a notable minority of owners report the door jamming or the unit completely failing within 10 months. If long-term reliability is your top priority, consider other options on this list first.
Why it’s great
- Matches Kenmore appliance line for a cohesive countertop look
- Express cook buttons from 1 to 6 minutes for fast operation
- Stainless steel interior is easy to wipe clean
Good to know
- Child lock cannot be permanently disabled
- Reliability concerns with door and unit failure after months of use
7. BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu Ft Microwave
The BLACK+DECKER 0.9 cu ft microwave offers a memory function that recalls your favorite cook settings — a rarity at this depth and price tier. Once you dial in the perfect time and power for your daily oatmeal or frozen dinner, the microwave stores that combination so you don’t have to re-enter it every morning. The one-touch start (30 seconds at full power) also speeds up routine reheating.
At exactly 13.2 inches deep, it fits tight 13-inch gaps with minimal overhang. The 900-watt output handles popcorn, pizza, frozen vegetables, and beverages through dedicated presets. Users consistently describe the touch panel as intuitive and the cooking results as evenly heated.
The two-step child lock is mandatory and cannot be disabled on this model — every use requires holding down the unlock button first. Some owners find this a minor annoyance; others consider it a dealbreaker if the microwave is used dozens of times daily. The plastic inner material also feels less premium than stainless steel liners found on competitors.
Why it’s great
- Memory function saves favorite cook settings for quick recall
- 13.2-inch depth fits tight counter spaces
- Intuitive touch panel with 6 auto menus
Good to know
- Child lock cannot be permanently disabled
- Plastic interior cavity rather than stainless steel
8. Farberware 0.7 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave
The Farberware 0.7 cu ft microwave is an entry-level workhorse that hits the essential notes — 700 watts, 6 one-touch presets (popcorn, potato, pizza, beverage, frozen dinner, reheat), and a compact footprint that slides into the tightest counter spaces. It’s a straightforward no-frills appliance for basic reheating and defrosting, ideal for a college dorm, RVs, or an office breakroom where budget matters more than performance.
The push-button door is easy to operate with one hand, and the LED display is clear enough for quick time adjustments. Owners generally praise the quiet operation — it runs softer than many comparable 700W units — and the stainless finish looks more expensive than the price suggests.
The 700-watt power ceiling means frozen dinners and large leftovers take noticeably longer than higher-wattage models. On dense dishes, you may need to pause and stir halfway through to avoid cold spots. The touchpad buttons are also a weak point: some users report the printed labels peeling off after a year of daily use, though the microwave continues functioning.
Why it’s great
- Very compact depth fits in the smallest counter gaps
- Quieter than most 700W microwaves
- 6 presets simplify common cooking tasks
Good to know
- 700W cooks noticeably slower than 900W+ units
- Touchpad button labels may peel over time
9. Commercial Chef CHM7MS 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave
The Commercial Chef CHM7MS is the shallowest microwave on this list at 12.6 inches deep, making it the absolute best choice for counters where every fraction of an inch matters. The 700-watt power and 0.7 cu ft capacity mirror the Farberware in raw specs, but the push-button door with a mechanical latch offers a different tactile experience — some users prefer it over membrane buttons that wear out.
The digital LED panel is bright and includes a kitchen clock, programmable multi-stage cooking, a timer, and a child safety lock. Owners who have used the microwave for 6–8 months report consistent heating performance and no mechanical issues, which is encouraging for an entry-level model. The quiet operation also stands out at this price tier.
Low wattage means slower cook times — expect 15–20% longer reheating compared to a 900W unit. The tiny 10-inch turntable may not fit larger dinner plates or oval serving dishes without overhang. Additionally, a handful of users report the clock function cannot be reset after a power outage, which suggests the control board may be vulnerable in some units.
Why it’s great
- Shallowest depth (12.6″) of any model reviewed — fits impossibly tight gaps
- Push-button door with mechanical latch is durable and easy to open
- Very quiet during operation
Good to know
- 700W power yields slower reheating and denser cold spots
- Small 10-inch turntable limits dish size
- Clock may reset incorrectly after power loss
FAQ
Can a 13 inch depth microwave fit in a standard 15-inch cabinet opening?
Is 700W enough for a 13 inch depth microwave or should I get 900W?
How do I disable the child lock permanently on most compact microwaves?
Will a 13 inch depth microwave fit a 10-inch dinner plate?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most users, the 13 inch depth microwave winner is the LG NeoChef because its Smart Inverter technology delivers genuinely even heating and the glass touch controls hold up better than membrane buttons. If you want the largest interior capacity without sacrificing counter space, grab the GE Compact 1.1 Cu Ft. And for the absolute tightest installation where every fraction of an inch counts, nothing beats the Commercial Chef CHM7MS at 12.6 inches deep.