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10 Best Shallow Depth Microwave 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor, 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior, 1000W, Silver

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,168
Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Features and Functions

Most important from
58745 reviews

Capacity
The interior is spacious and easy to clean.
Power (Wattage)
Incredibly powerful and heats food quickly and evenly, with no cold spots or overcooked edges.
Features and Functions
The one-touch presets, such as the 'Popcorn' and 'Reheat' buttons, are convenient and save time.
Control Panel and Ease of Use
User-friendly controls with a clear digital display and well-marked buttons.
Turntable vs. Flatbed
The turntable rotates smoothly, ensuring food is heated evenly.

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave is a solid choice for anyone looking for an efficient and stylish appliance for their kitchen. With a capacity of 1.2 cubic feet, it offers enough space to fit larger dishes, like a 12-inch pizza, which is excellent for family meals or entertaining guests. Its 1100-watt power ensures that food heats up quickly and evenly, making meal preparation more convenient.

One of the standout features is its pre-programmed sensor menu that optimizes heating for various foods, which can be a time-saver for busy individuals. The easy-to-read control panel and large digital display enhance usability, especially for those who may not be tech-savvy. Additionally, the mute function is a thoughtful touch for users who prefer a quieter operation.

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS is a dependable and stylish microwave with practical features that cater well to everyday cooking needs. It's especially suitable for families or individuals who appreciate convenience and efficiency, but potential buyers should consider their available space and cleaning preferences before making a decision.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,168
Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Features and Functions

Most important from
58745 reviews

Capacity
The interior is spacious and easy to clean.
Power (Wattage)
Incredibly powerful and heats food quickly and evenly, with no cold spots or overcooked edges.
Features and Functions
The one-touch presets, such as the 'Popcorn' and 'Reheat' buttons, are convenient and save time.
Control Panel and Ease of Use
User-friendly controls with a clear digital display and well-marked buttons.
Turntable vs. Flatbed
The turntable rotates smoothly, ensuring food is heated evenly.
#2

TOSHIBA Air Fryer Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, with Convection, Broil, Odor Removal Mode, 12.4" Position Memory Turntable, Child-Lock, 1.0 Cu.ft, Black Stainless Steel, ML2-EC10SA(BS)

Rating
9.7
Power (Wattage)
Features and Functions
Control Panel and Ease of Use

Most important from
58745 reviews

Power (Wattage)
This microwave delivers faster heating than expected with its 1000-watt power, making everyday cooking quick and efficient.
Features and Functions
The child safety lock is simple to operate, adding peace of mind for families with children.
Control Panel and Ease of Use
An actual door handle replaces unreliable push-button openers, allowing one-handed, effortless access every time.
Turntable vs. Flatbed
The large 12.4-inch turntable with position memory contributes to even cooking results and easy cleanup.

The Toshiba Combo 8-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven is a versatile appliance designed to fit well in kitchens needing a shallow-depth microwave with multiple cooking options. It offers a 1.0 cubic foot capacity, which is roomy enough for a whole roasted chicken, a 12-inch pizza, or an 8x4-inch casserole, making it suitable for families or those who cook varied meals. Its size is compact (20.6" wide, 18" deep, and 11.8" high), so it won’t take up too much counter space. The microwave runs at 1000 watts output power, providing strong and quick cooking performance for most everyday needs.

One standout feature is its 8-in-1 functionality, combining microwave, air fryer, convection bake, broil, and other modes, which adds cooking flexibility beyond standard microwaves. The large 12.4-inch turntable with position memory helps evenly cook your food and is removable for easy cleaning. Controls include easy-turn knobs and one-touch buttons for popular options like popcorn, along with a child safety lock to prevent accidental use. The black stainless steel finish looks modern and the interior is stainless steel, which cleans up relatively easily.

This model has an input power of 1600 watts, indicating it uses more electricity compared to simpler microwaves. It is advisable to place the microwave in a well-ventilated area to avoid overheating during high-power or extended cooking sessions. For those looking to replace several kitchen gadgets with a relatively compact appliance featuring various cooking functions and good safety features, this model is an excellent choice. However, if you primarily need a basic microwave with fewer features and are mindful of energy consumption, a simpler model might be more suitable.

Rating
9.7
Power (Wattage)
Features and Functions
Control Panel and Ease of Use

Most important from
58745 reviews

Power (Wattage)
This microwave delivers faster heating than expected with its 1000-watt power, making everyday cooking quick and efficient.
Features and Functions
The child safety lock is simple to operate, adding peace of mind for families with children.
Control Panel and Ease of Use
An actual door handle replaces unreliable push-button openers, allowing one-handed, effortless access every time.
Turntable vs. Flatbed
The large 12.4-inch turntable with position memory contributes to even cooking results and easy cleanup.
#3

SHARP SMD2470ASY Microwave Drawer Oven, 24-inch, 1.2 Cubic Feet, 950 Watt, Concealed Control Panel with Digital LCD Display, Stainless Steel

Rating
8.8
Control Panel and Ease of Use

Most important from
1000 reviews

Control Panel and Ease of Use
The innovative design where the buttons extend out and face upwards is a significant improvement, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and convenience.

The Sharp SMD2470ASY 24-Inch Microwave Drawer is designed to fit seamlessly in modern kitchens, making it a great choice if you're looking for a stylish and convenient cooking appliance. With a capacity of 1.2 cubic feet, it can accommodate standard dishes, and its 950 watts of power allows for efficient cooking and reheating.

One of the standout features of this microwave is its Easy Touch Automatic Drawer System. This allows for hands-free opening and closing, which can be especially helpful when your hands are full. The concealed control panel, which opens at a 45-degree angle, simplifies operation while keeping the design sleek.

In terms of size, it fits well into cabinets, with dimensions that make it suitable for built-in installations. However, users should be aware that a separate flush mount kit is needed for a completely integrated look. The stainless steel finish not only adds a touch of elegance but is also durable and easy to clean. While it has a solid capacity, it might not be sufficient for larger families or those who regularly cook large meals. Some may find the 950 watts a bit lower compared to other microwaves, which can impact cooking times for certain dishes. The model's weight of 74 pounds makes it a bit cumbersome to install, especially for those DIYers who may not be experienced. Additionally, the built-in installation may not appeal to those looking for a countertop microwave option.

The Sharp SMD2470ASY is ideal for those seeking a stylish, functional microwave drawer that enhances kitchen aesthetics and convenience. However, if you need higher wattage or more space for larger cooking tasks, you might want to consider other options.

Rating
8.8
Control Panel and Ease of Use

Most important from
1000 reviews

Control Panel and Ease of Use
The innovative design where the buttons extend out and face upwards is a significant improvement, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and convenience.

Buying Guide for the Best Shallow Depth Microwave

Choosing the right shallow-depth microwave can significantly enhance your kitchen experience, especially if you have limited counter space. A shallow-depth microwave is designed to fit in smaller spaces while still providing the functionality of a standard microwave. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your needs.
Size and DimensionsSize and dimensions are crucial when selecting a shallow-depth microwave because they determine whether the appliance will fit in your designated space. Measure the available space in your kitchen, including height, width, and depth. Shallow-depth microwaves typically have a depth of less than 15 inches. Ensure the microwave you choose fits comfortably in your space without obstructing other appliances or cabinets.
CapacityCapacity refers to the internal volume of the microwave, usually measured in cubic feet. This spec is important because it dictates how much food you can cook or reheat at once. Shallow-depth microwaves often have a capacity ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 cubic feet. If you primarily use the microwave for small meals or reheating, a smaller capacity will suffice. For larger families or frequent use, opt for a higher capacity within the shallow-depth range.
Power (Wattage)Power, measured in watts, affects how quickly and evenly your food cooks. Higher wattage means faster cooking times and more even heating. Shallow-depth microwaves typically range from 600 to 1200 watts. If you need a microwave for basic tasks like reheating and defrosting, a lower wattage (600-800 watts) will be adequate. For more intensive cooking, such as preparing full meals, look for a microwave with higher wattage (900-1200 watts).
Features and FunctionsModern microwaves come with a variety of features and functions that can enhance convenience and cooking versatility. Common features include preset cooking programs, defrost settings, and sensor cooking, which automatically adjusts cooking time and power. Consider what features are important to you. If you prefer simplicity, a basic model with essential functions will do. If you enjoy experimenting with different cooking methods, look for a microwave with advanced features like convection cooking or grilling.
Control Panel and Ease of UseThe control panel is the interface you use to operate the microwave. It's important that it is intuitive and easy to use. Some microwaves have touchpad controls, while others have dial or button controls. Consider your preference and ease of use. If you have difficulty with small buttons or complex menus, opt for a microwave with a straightforward, user-friendly control panel.
Turntable vs. FlatbedMicrowaves typically come with either a turntable or a flatbed design. A turntable rotates your food to ensure even cooking, while a flatbed uses different technology to achieve the same result without the need for rotation. Turntables are common and effective for most users. However, if you need to fit larger or irregularly shaped dishes, a flatbed design might be more suitable as it offers more usable space inside the microwave.
VentilationVentilation is important if you plan to install the microwave in a confined space or above a cooktop. Some microwaves come with built-in ventilation systems to help remove smoke, steam, and odors. If your kitchen lacks proper ventilation, consider a microwave with a built-in exhaust fan. This feature is particularly useful for over-the-range installations.

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