10 Best Low Profile Microwaves in 2026

You know the pain: a microwave that eats up half your countertop, or an over-the-range model that hangs so low it blocks your view of the stovetop. The whole reason you're looking for a low profile microwave is that your space is tight — a cramped apartment kitchen, a dorm room, a small office break area, or a cabinet shelf that won't fit a standard 12-inch-plus box. The good news is that manufacturers have finally started building models that shave inches off the height without gutting the cooking power. We've rounded up the 10 best low profile microwaves in 2026, from ultra-slim countertop units to over-the-range models that sit noticeably lower than the competition. Whether you need something barely nine inches tall or a full-featured smart oven that still fits under a low cabinet, there's a pick here for you.

TL;DR: The Midea MMO12S3ASTZ is the best low profile microwave overall: a slim over-the-range model with smart features at just 10.3 inches tall. The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is the tiny countertop champ for the tightest spots. The GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS brings Wi-Fi smarts and a scan-to-cook feature. And the COSMO Stellar Coll is the go-to if you need a 30-inch OTR microwave that won't overhang your range.

#	Product	Capacity	Height	Power	Best for
1	Midea MMO12S3ASTZ	1.2 cu. ft.	10.3 in	1000W	Slim over-the-range with smart home integration
2	GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS	1.1 cu. ft.	11.75 in	800W	Tech-first users who want Wi-Fi and barcode scanning
3	BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7	0.7 cu. ft.	10.2 in	700W	Absolute space savings on a countertop
4	TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS)	0.9 cu. ft.	10.7 in	900W	Best mid-size countertop with mute function
5	Chefman Countertop Microwave	0.7 cu. ft.	9.53 in	700W	The lowest profile of them all for tiny shelves
6	COSMO Stellar Coll 30 in.	1.2 cu. ft.	10.3 in	1000W	A wide, slim OTR for full-size ranges
7	GE JVM3160RFSS	1.6 cu. ft.	16.5 in	1000W	Full-size OTR with proven reliability (not ultra-low but a workhorse)
8	TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS	1.2 cu. ft.	12.8 in	1000W	Powerful countertop with sensor cooking
9	BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11	1.1 cu. ft.	11.8 in	1000W	Good power in a modestly low countertop
10	Summit SCM853	0.9 cu. ft.	11 in	900W	Compact stainless steel for small kitchens

How we picked

Every one of these microwaves stands 12 inches or shorter (with one exception we'll explain), but that's where the similarity ends. Here's what we looked for:

• Actual installed height. Many manufacturers list the depth or width as the primary dimension. We prioritized the measurement that matters: the vertical clearance your cabinet or shelf needs. A difference of one inch can make or break a fit in an apartment kitchen.
• Ventilation and mounting flexibility for over-the-range models. An OTR microwave needs to move at least 300 CFM of air to be useful above a range. We checked that the slim OTRs here have adequate fan power, and that they can be vented horizontally or vertically to suit different ductwork.
• Cooking power relative to footprint. Smaller microwaves tend to have lower wattage. We looked for models that keep the power above 700W so you aren't waiting five minutes for a cup of coffee. The best picks in this list deliver 1000W in a package barely 10 inches tall.
• Smart features that actually help. Sensor cooking that adjusts time based on steam, preset menus for common foods, and child locks are genuinely useful. We preferred models that automate the annoying parts of microwaving without adding clutter.
• Build quality and door feel. The push-button door release on the BLACK+DECKER models feels better than a flimsy handle on some cheap units. We favored stainless steel exteriors that hold up to kitchen grease and wipe clean easily.

1. Midea MMO12S3ASTZ: Best Slim Over-the-Range Microwave

Pros:

• Only 10.3 inches tall, freeing up space under cabinets
• 1000W heating power with a 400 CFM vent fan that actually moves air
• Smart home compatible via voice control and app
• Sensor cook and reheat take the guesswork out of leftovers

Cons:

• The app setup can be fiddly the first time
• No built-in trim kit for a flush installation (sold separately)
• Vent fan is louder than some standalone hoods

Best for: Anyone replacing a standard OTR microwave who wants a noticeably slimmer profile without losing cooking power or venting capability.

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Midea's MMO12S3ASTZ does what most OTR microwaves fail to do: it squishes the height down to barely over 10 inches while still fitting a 1.2 cu. ft. cavity inside. That cavity is wide enough for a dinner plate, and the 1000W output means frozen dinners finish in the time the package says. The ventilation is rated at 400 CFM, which is strong for a microwave fan — it pulls steam and cooking odors away from the stovetop without needing a separate range hood. The sensor cook feature reads steam levels and stops when food is hot, and you can set the timer or start cooking from the Midea SmartHome app. The voice control works with Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can say "reheat my coffee" without touching anything. The one trade-off is that the fan isn't whisper-quiet, but it's no louder than most built-in hoods at this height. Overall, this is the most capable low profile OTR you can buy today.

2. GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS: The Smartest Low Profile Countertop

Pros:

• Scan-to-Cook reads frozen food barcodes and sets the perfect time and power
• Wi-Fi enabled with smartphone control
• Built-in capable with an optional trim kit
• 800W in a relatively low 11.75-inch height

Cons:

• Lower wattage than some competing models
• The under-cabinet mounting kit is sold separately
• No sensor cooking for non-barcode items

Best for: Tech-savvy cooks who want the convenience of scanning frozen meals and controlling everything from their phone.

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The GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS is the microwave equivalent of a smart assistant. The headline feature is Scan-to-Cook: point the microwave at the barcode on a frozen entree, and it automatically sets the power and time to what the manufacturer recommends. No more punching in "3:30" and crossing your fingers. It also connects to your home Wi-Fi so you can start or stop cooking from your phone, and the GE Profile app can send notifications when your food is ready. The 800W output is lower than the 1000W you'll find on some cheaper models, but for typical reheating and defrosting, it's perfectly adequate — and the scan feature compensates by eliminating the guesswork. The microwave is built-in capable if you buy a matching trim kit, or you can use the optional under-cabinet mount to free up counter space. At 11.75 inches tall, it's not the lowest on this list, but it clears most standard upper cabinets. The stainless steel finish is fingerprint-resistant, and the interior is coated for easy wiping. If you hate reading microwave instructions, this is the model that reads them for you.

3. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7: The Tiny Space-Saver

Pros:

• Only 10.2 inches tall and 0.7 cu. ft. — fits on the smallest counter
• Push-button door release is easier than a handle
• 700W is sufficient for basic reheating and popcorn
• Pre-programmed buttons for six common foods

Cons:

• 700W is slow for cooking from scratch
• Small cavity won't fit a full dinner plate
• Interior light is dim

Best for: Dorm rooms, office break rooms, RVs, or anyone with extremely limited counter space.

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This BLACK+DECKER has been a bestseller for years because it solves a simple problem: where do you put a microwave when every inch of counter is spoken for? At 10.2 inches tall and 0.7 cubic feet, it sits under a low cabinet without touching it, and it leaves enough room to use the sink or toaster next to it. The push-button door release is a clever design choice — no handle to bump into, just a button that pops the door open. The 700W output is modest, but it heats leftovers fine and makes popcorn in about three minutes. The 10 power levels let you adjust for delicate tasks like softening butter. The preset buttons cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverage, and dinner plate. The child safety lock is a welcome addition for families. The main limitation is size: a standard dinner plate won't fit, and a 12-ounce mug can feel cramped. But if your need is "a microwave that doesn't dominate my counter," this is the one.

4. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS): Best Mid-Size Countertop with a Mute Button

Pros:

• 0.9 cu. ft. is large enough for a dinner plate
• 900W for faster cooking than 700W models
• Mute function turns off the beeps
• 10.7 inches tall fits under most cabinets

Cons:

• No sensor cooking
• Black stainless steel shows fingerprints more than regular stainless
• Turntable rattle at high power

Best for: People who want a slightly larger countertop microwave without growing the height, and who hate beeping microwaves.

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Toshiba's ML-EM09PA(BS) splits the difference between the tiny 0.7 cu. ft. models and the full-size 1.2 cu. ft. machines. It gives you a 0.9 cu. ft. interior with a 10.6-inch turntable that accommodates a standard dinner plate or a large bowl, yet it stays under 11 inches tall. The 900W power level is noticeably faster than the 700W units — leftovers reheat in about 90 seconds. The six preset menus cover the essentials: popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverage, and dinner plate. The mute function is a genuine quality-of-life feature if you live in a studio apartment or have a sleeping baby in the next room — holding the "Stop" button for three seconds kills the beeps permanently. The 11 power levels give you fine control for defrosting or melting chocolate. The two-step child lock needs you to press two buttons in sequence, which is secure enough for curious toddlers. The black stainless steel finish looks modern but shows smudges easily; a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth keeps it clean. The turntable can wobble a bit on the highest power setting, but it's not a dealbreaker.

5. Chefman Countertop Microwave: The Slimmest of Them All

Pros:

• Just 9.53 inches tall — the lowest profile here
• Eco mode reduces standby power consumption
• Mute button and child safety lock
• 10 power levels and six presets

Cons:

• 700W limits its ability to cook larger items quickly
• 0.7 cu. ft. cavity is small
• No sensor cooking

Best for: The tightest spaces: cabinets with less than 10 inches of vertical clearance, or a shelf in a tiny kitchen.

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The Chefman 0.7 cu. ft. microwave is the shortest microwave on this list by a meaningful margin — 9.53 inches. That's low enough to slide into a cabinet shelf that was never designed for a microwave, or to sit under a cabinet that's hung lower than normal. It's also light enough to move around easily. The 700W output is standard for this compact class, and the presets include popcorn, pizza, beverage, vegetable, potato, and leftovers. The express cook buttons let you press "1" through "6" to start cooking for that many minutes at full power — no extra button presses. The eco mode turns off the LED display when not in use to save electricity. The mute button is another nice touch for noise-sensitive environments. The one-touch door release is on the front, not a handle, which saves a few more inches of depth. The build quality feels solid for its size, with a black cabinet that resists scratches. The trade-off for the slim height is a smaller interior; you won't fit a large casserole dish. But for single servings, leftovers, and quick reheats, it gets the job done in the smallest possible footprint.

6. COSMO Stellar Coll 30 in. OTR: Wide and Slim for Full-Size Ranges

Pros:

• 30-inch width matches standard range width
• 10.3 inches tall — as slim as the Midea
• 1000W with 11 power levels
• Smart sensor cooking and defrost

Cons:

• Only available in black
• No Wi-Fi or smart features
• Vent motor is not the quietest

Best for: Homeowners with a 30-inch range who want an OTR microwave that doesn't hang too low and looks integrated.

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COSMO's Stellar Coll is one of the few 30-inch wide over-the-range microwaves that stays under 11 inches tall. Most OTRs in this width push 16 to 17 inches high, but this one measures just 10.3 inches, leaving a generous gap between the microwave and your upper cabinets. The 1000W cooking power is adequate for any reheating task, and the 11 power levels give precise control. The sensor cook and reheat functions detect humidity and adjust timing automatically, which works well for frozen meals and leftovers. The defrost modes let you choose by weight or time. The 1.2 cu. ft. interior can hold a large dish, and the turntable is a generous 12 inches. The two-speed 300 CFM fan does a decent job of venting steam, though it's not as powerful as a standalone hood. The black finish is sleek and matches many modern appliance suites. The one-year limited warranty is backed by US-based customer support. If you need a 30-inch low profile OTR and don't care about app connectivity, this is a strong contender.

7. GE JVM3160RFSS: The Proven Over-the-Range Workhorse

Pros:

• 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is the largest on this list
• 1000W with auto and time defrost
• Turntable on/off switch for large rectangular dishes
• Two-speed 300 CFM vent system

Cons:

• 16.5 inches tall is not low profile by today's standards
• No sensor cooking
• No smart features

Best for: Shoppers who prioritize interior capacity over height savings and want a tried-and-true GE appliance.

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The GE JVM3160RFSS is the outlier in this list because it's not truly low profile — at 16.5 inches tall, it's almost 6 inches taller than the Midea. But we've included it because it's the best-selling over-the-range microwave on Amazon and it serves a specific need: if you have the clearance (most standard upper cabinets leave 18 inches or more above the stove), you get a cavernous 1.6 cu. ft. interior that can fit a large roasting pan or a 14-inch pizza box. The 1000W output is strong, and the auto defrost is programmed to handle common foods like ground meat, steaks, and chicken. The two-speed 300 CFM vent removes smoke and steam effectively, and the turntable can be turned off for rectangular dishes. The charcoal filter replacement is easy and accessible behind the door grille. The stainless steel finish is classic and matches other GE kitchen appliances. For budget-conscious buyers who already have the vertical room, this microwave delivers reliable performance without smart gimmicks. But if you're specifically trying to reclaim overhead space, look at the Midea or COSMO instead.

8. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS: Powerful Countertop with Smart Sensor

Pros:

• 1000W output at 1.2 cu. ft. capacity
• Smart humidity sensor adjusts cooking automatically
• 12.4-inch turntable fits large plates
• Mute function and ECO mode

Cons:

• 12.8 inches tall is near the upper limit of "low profile"
• Black stainless steel smudges easily
• No Wi-Fi or app control

Best for: Cooks who want premium features (sensor cooking, high power, large capacity) but only have about 13 inches of vertical clearance.

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Toshiba's EM131A5C-BS is the most popular countertop microwave in its class, and for good reason: it combines commercial-grade 1000W power with a smart humidity sensor that stops cooking the moment your food reaches the right temperature. That sensor works for reheating and for specific menus where moisture matters. The 1.2 cu. ft. interior is spacious enough for a large pasta bowl, and the 12.4-inch glass turntable rotates smoothly. The 12 preset menus cover everything from pizza to vegetables to sensor reheat. The ECO mode turns off the standby display to save electricity. The mute function silences the beeps. At 12.8 inches tall, it's not the shortest microwave here, but it will fit under most standard cabinets (which are usually 13 to 14 inches above the counter). The black stainless steel finish looks sharp but shows fingerprints easily; the standard stainless version (EM131A5C-SS) is an alternative if that bothers you. This is the best choice if you want near-maximum height clearance while still getting a large cavity and sensor cooking.

9. BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11: 1000W in a Lower Profile

Pros:

• 1000W output is powerful for its size
• 1.1 cu. ft. interior with 12.4-inch turntable
• Push-button door release
• Pre-programmed buttons for six foods

Cons:

• 11.8 inches tall is not the lowest
• Interior light could be brighter
• No sensor cooking or smart features

Best for: Shoppers who want the cooking power of a full-size microwave in a cabinet-friendly height without paying extra for bells and whistles.

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The BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 is the bigger brother of the popular EM720CB7, stepping up to 1000W and 1.1 cu. ft. while staying under 12 inches tall. That height (11.8 inches) is still low enough to fit under most wall cabinets, and the extra power means leftovers heat in under two minutes. The push-button door release is a nice touch, and the control panel is straightforward with large digital readouts. The preset buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverage, and dinner plate are reliable. The 10 power levels give you flexibility for tasks like defrosting or simmering. The child safety lock prevents accidental use, and the 30-second express cooking button is convenient. The interior is coated for easy cleaning, and the turntable is removable. The stainless steel trim and black body look more premium than the price suggests. The one omission is sensor cooking — you'll need to set times manually or use the presets. But if you need a powerful microwave that doesn't tower over your counter, this is a solid, no-nonsense option.

10. Summit SCM853: Compact Stainless Steel for Small Nooks

Pros:

• Brushed stainless steel cabinet and interior
• 0.9 cu. ft. capacity with a polished interior that's easy to clean
• Only 19 inches wide — narrower than most microwaves
• Defrost, reheat, and preset options

Cons:

• 11 inches tall is average for the category
• No power level display on the digital touchpad
• Brand is less well-known, limited support

Best for: Small kitchens where every inch of width matters — this microwave is 19 inches wide, compared to the typical 20 to 21 inches.

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Summit is a niche appliance brand that specializes in compact and built-in refrigerators, and the SCM853 microwave follows the same philosophy. It squeezes into a 19-inch-wide space, which is about an inch narrower than most countertop microwaves. That extra inch can make the difference between fitting on a narrow counter or not. The brushed stainless steel finish is uniform on the cabinet and the interior, giving it a high-end look that doesn't show scratches easily. The digital touchpad includes presets for popcorn, pizza, reheat, defrost, melt, and soften butter. The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity is adequate for standard dishes, and the 900W output is solid for its size. The interior light is bright enough to see what's cooking. The main downside is that the touchpad lacks a permanent power level display — you need to cycle through levels to see which one you've selected. Also, Summit's customer service network is smaller than GE's or Toshiba's, so repairs could be trickier. If counter width is your primary constraint, this is the best fit.

Buyer's guide: how to choose a low profile microwave

Buying a low profile microwave is a game of millimeters. The wrong choice means a microwave that barely fits under your cabinets or leaves an awkward gap. Here's what to consider before you click "buy."

Height clearance

The first number to measure is the space between your countertop (or the bottom of your upper cabinet) and the shelf or cabinet above. A low profile microwave typically stands between 9.5 and 12 inches tall. If you have exactly 10 inches of clearance, the Chefman (9.53 in) or BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 (10.2 in) will fit; the Toshiba ML-EM09PA (10.7 in) will not. For over-the-range models, measure from the stovetop to the bottom of the cabinet. The Midea (10.3 in) and COSMO (10.3 in) give you the most space between the microwave and the cabinet, while the GE JVM3160RFSS (16.5 in) needs at least 17 inches of clearance.

Wattage and cooking performance

Low profile doesn't have to mean low power. The best models in this list deliver 1000W in a package barely 10 inches tall. Wattage directly affects cooking speed: a 700W microwave takes about twice as long to heat a cup of water as a 1000W unit. If you mostly reheat leftovers and pop popcorn, 700W is fine. If you defrost meat or cook frozen vegetables regularly, aim for 900W or 1000W. The trade-off is that higher wattage models are usually a little taller and heavier.

Capacity vs. footprint

Smaller microwaves have smaller cavities. A 0.7 cu. ft. model fits a single dinner plate but not a large casserole dish. A 1.2 cu. ft. model can hold a small lasagna pan. Think about what you actually cook. If it's just coffee and frozen burritos, the tiny Chefman or BLACK+DECKER 700W is plenty. If you regularly reheat family-sized meals, stick with 1.1 cu. ft. or larger. Width also matters: some kitchens have a narrow counter spot, and the Summit SCM853 (19 in wide) is the only option under 20 inches.

Venting options for over-the-range models

If you choose an OTR microwave, you need to know your kitchen's venting setup. Most OTRs can be vented to the outside through a duct (horizontal or vertical), or recirculated through a charcoal filter. The recirculation mode is less effective but works if you don't have ductwork. The fan strength is measured in CFM (cubic feet per minute). The Midea moves 400 CFM, which is enough to pull smoke from a hot pan; the COSMO and GE JVM3160RFSS move 300 CFM, which is adequate for light cooking. If you sear steak regularly, consider a higher CFM model or a separate hood.

Smart features and usability

Microwaves have gotten smarter. Sensor cooking (found on the Midea and Toshiba EM131A5C) automatically adjusts time based on humidity, so you don't overcook items. The GE Profile's Scan-to-Cook is a unique take — it reads barcodes and sets the perfect program. Wi-Fi control lets you start cooking from another room, which is more useful than you'd think when you're in a home office. And the mute function (available on most Toshiba and Chefman models) is a simple but meaningful upgrade for quiet households. Child safety locks are essential if you have young kids.

Frequently asked questions

How low should a low profile microwave be?

Most standard microwaves are 12 to 14 inches tall. A low profile microwave is anything under 12 inches, with the slimmest models coming in at 9.5 inches. Measure the gap you have before buying.

Can I install a low profile microwave under a cabinet?

Many countertop models can be mounted under a cabinet with a mounting kit. The GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS has an optional under-cabinet kit. The BLACK+DECKER models are designed for countertop use but can be installed with a shelf. Over-the-range models are designed to be mounted directly above the stove.

Do low profile microwaves have less power?

Not necessarily. Several models in this list deliver 1000W in a 10-inch package. The trade-off is usually capacity, not wattage. Always check the output power before buying.

Are low profile microwaves more expensive?

Not inherently. The simplest 0.7 cu. ft. models are among the cheapest microwaves you can buy. The premium features like sensor cooking, Wi-Fi, and slim OTR designs push the purchase cost higher, but the low profile itself doesn't add a premium.

Can I fit a 12-inch plate in a small microwave?

A 0.9 cu. ft. model with a 10.6-inch turntable will fit a standard 10-inch dinner plate but not a 12-inch serving platter. The Toshiba EM131A5C (1.2 cu. ft.) has a 12.4-inch turntable that handles larger dishes. Always check the turntable size listed in the specs.

Do I need a charcoal filter for an over-the-range microwave?

If you recirculate the air (no outside vent), yes. Most OTR microwaves come with a charcoal filter that needs replacing every 6 to 12 months. The Midea and GE JVM3160RFSS include filters; the COSMO may require a separate purchase.

Can I use a low profile microwave in an RV or dorm?

Yes. The 0.7 cu. ft. models are popular for RVs and dorm rooms because they're small, light, and fit in tight spaces. Just make sure the voltage is compatible (standard 120V works everywhere in the US).

Final verdict

The Midea MMO12S3ASTZ is the best low profile microwave for the majority of buyers. It combines a genuinely slim 10.3-inch height with powerful 1000W cooking, a strong 400 CFM vent fan, sensor cooking, and smart home integration. If you need a countertop model that fits under a very low cabinet, the Chefman is the shortest at 9.53 inches. For those who want high power and a large cavity without going over 12 inches, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS offers the best balance of smart sensor cooking and value. And if you have a full-size 30-inch range and want an OTR that doesn't block your view, the COSMO Stellar Coll delivers the width and slim height you need. Measure your space, decide which features matter most, and buy the one that fits — literally.

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