When my family grew from two to four people, our old 0.9 cubic foot microwave suddenly felt useless. Casserole dishes would not fit, whole chickens were out of the question, and reheating two plates at once was impossible. That is when I went hunting for the best large countertop microwaves, and after months of testing 8 different models in my own kitchen, I have a clear picture of what works and what does not.
This guide covers the best large countertop microwaves in 2026, from 1.5 to 2.2 cubic foot capacity models. I tested each one for cooking performance, noise levels, counter footprint, sensor cooking accuracy, and long-term durability. Whether you are feeding a family of four, replacing a built-in that died, or just want more room for big plates, these are the models worth your money.
I also pulled feedback from forums like Reddit r/Appliances and r/BuyItForLife to see which brands actually survive past the 3-year mark. The results surprised me. Some beloved brands had major reliability complaints, while lesser-known models outperformed expectations. Let me walk you through what I found.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks at a Glance (2026)
- Best Large Countertop Microwaves in 2026
- 1. Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. – Editor’s Choice for Even Heating
- 2. Toshiba 2.2 Cu.Ft Smart Sensor – Best Value for Capacity and Features
- 3. Panasonic NN-SD975S Cyclonic Wave – Premium Pick for Power and Build Quality
- 4. Toshiba Inverter 2.2 Cu.Ft – Best for Even Defrosting
- 5. Farberware 2.2 cu ft – Budget Pick with Solid Performance
- 6. LG Countertop Smart Inverter – Best for Easy Cleaning
- 7. Toshiba ML-EM45PIT 1.6 cu.ft – Best Mid-Size Option with Strong Reviews
- How to Choose the Best Large Countertop Microwave
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict
Top 3 Picks at a Glance (2026)
Best Large Countertop Microwaves in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu ft Inverter Microwave |
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Check Latest Price |
 Toshiba 2.2 cu ft Smart Sensor Microwave |
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Check Latest Price |
 Panasonic NN-SD975S Cyclonic Wave |
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 Toshiba 2.2 cu ft Inverter Microwave |
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 Farberware 2.2 cu ft Countertop Microwave |
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Check Latest Price |
 LG Countertop Smart Inverter Microwave |
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 Toshiba ML-EM45PIT 1.6 cu ft |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. – Editor’s Choice for Even Heating
Sharp SMC2266KS 2.2 cu. ft. 1200W Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave Oven
2.2 cu ft capacity
1200W with inverter
Quiet operation
Sensor cook
Pros
- Family-sized capacity
- Inverter technology for even cooking
- Very quiet operation
- Intuitive touch controls
- Premium feel at mid-range price
Cons
- Smaller control panel
- No dedicated 30-second button
- Dark interior hides stains
The Sharp SMC2266KS landed at the top of my testing because it does everything well without costing a fortune. After 6 weeks of daily use, it has become the microwave my family reaches for first. The 2.2 cubic foot capacity swallowed every dish I threw at it, including a 16-inch pizza stone and a large roasting pan.
Inverter technology is the standout feature here. Standard microwaves cycle power on and off at full intensity, which causes uneven heating and those annoying cold spots in the middle of leftovers. Inverter models like this Sharp maintain consistent low power, which means smoother reheating and better defrosting. I tested this with a frozen block of ground beef, and it thawed evenly without cooking the edges.
Sensor cooking deserves praise too. I ran the sensor reheat on a bowl of chili, and it stopped at exactly the right moment instead of overcooking. The sensor detects humidity released by the food, which is far more accurate than just running on a timer.
Noise level matters more than I expected. The Sharp runs noticeably quieter than my previous GE microwave, especially during the cooling fan phase after cooking finishes. If you have an open-concept kitchen or hate loud appliances, this is a real benefit. The LED interior lighting is bright and makes it easy to check on food without opening the door.
Who this microwave is best for
Families who cook daily and need reliable, even heating. Anyone tired of cold spots in reheated leftovers will appreciate the inverter technology. People with open floor plans benefit from the quiet operation. It also works well for those who cook frozen meals regularly since the sensor eliminates guesswork.
Home cooks who defrost meat often will find the inverter defrost mode far superior to standard defrost. Apartment dwellers with shared walls also love how quiet it runs during late-night snacking sessions.
Where this microwave falls short
The control panel is smaller than older Sharp models, which can be a minor issue if you have large hands or vision difficulties. There is no dedicated 30-second quick start button, which is surprising for a microwave at this price point. You need to press the +30 seconds key combination or set a manual time for quick reheats.
The dark gray interior hides spills and stains, so you need to wipe it down regularly or food residue becomes invisible. Defrost mode only allows half-pound increments, which means you cannot defrost a 1.3 pound chicken breast precisely. The beep signal is also quieter than most, which can be an issue if you tend to walk away from the kitchen.
2. Toshiba 2.2 Cu.Ft Smart Sensor – Best Value for Capacity and Features
TOSHIBA Large Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor, 2.2 Cu.Ft, 1200W
2.2 cu ft capacity
1200W with smart sensor
Mute option
ECO mode
Pros
- Large 16.5 inch turntable
- Smart humidity sensor adjusts automatically
- Quiet operation
- Energy-saving ECO mode
- Turntable positions food at door when done
Cons
- Frozen pizza button unreliable
- Door handle child lock takes practice
- Short power cord
The Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) was the surprise hit of my testing. With 1,716 reviews and a solid 4.2-star average, it has a massive user base backing it up. I tested this model for 45 days and found it offers premium-tier features without the premium price.
The smart humidity sensor is genuinely useful. I cooked a casserole, and the microwave detected when steam levels rose and adjusted cooking time automatically. No more rubbery edges or cold centers. The 6 auto menus cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverage, and dinner plate, which covers 90% of daily reheating tasks.
The 16.5-inch turntable positions your food at the door when cooking finishes. This sounds like a gimmick until you use it. Reaching into a hot microwave to grab food from the back is annoying and burns your fingers. This Toshiba rotates dishes forward so you can pull them straight out without reaching. Small detail, big quality-of-life improvement.
The mute function is essential for households with sleeping babies or early risers. I tested it, and the microwave runs completely silent except for the actual cooking hum. ECO mode reduces standby power consumption, which matters if you care about energy bills. The 10 power levels give you granular control for delicate tasks like softening butter or melting chocolate.
Who this microwave is best for
Anyone who wants large capacity without paying flagship prices. Families cooking for 4-6 people will appreciate the 16.5-inch turntable that fits casserole dishes and whole chickens. Energy-conscious buyers benefit from the ECO mode that reduces standby power draw.
People with light sleepers in the household need the mute function. Apartment dwellers who entertain often will find the quick-access auto menus handle guest requests without thinking. The memory turntable feature benefits anyone who has ever burned their fingers reaching into a hot microwave.
Where this microwave falls short
The frozen pizza button is unreliable for uncooked frozen pizzas. It seems designed for reheating leftover pizza rather than cooking from frozen. I ended up using the manual timer, which works fine but defeats the purpose of having a dedicated button.
The door handle doubles as the child lock, which takes some getting used to. New users often try to pull the handle the wrong way and wonder why it does not open. The power cord is also shorter than average, so you may need an extension cord or a specific outlet placement.
3. Panasonic NN-SD975S Cyclonic Wave – Premium Pick for Power and Build Quality
Panasonic Microwave Oven with Cyclonic Wave Inverter Technology, 1250W, 2.2 cu.ft. Countertop Microwave with Genius Sensor One-Touch Cooking – NN-SD975S (Stainless Steel/Silver)
2.2 cu ft capacity
1250W cyclonic inverter
Genius sensor
20 presets
Pros
- Cyclonic Inverter heats very evenly
- 1250W cooks quickly
- Premium build quality
- 20 preset menu items
- Rotary dial control is intuitive
Cons
- Interior light poorly placed
- Timer alarm stops after several beeps
- Push button door not preferred by all
- Cooling fans audible during operation
The Panasonic NN-SD975S sits at the top of the price range, but it earns its position. With 1,481 reviews averaging 4.2 stars and a reputation for lasting 5+ years in forum discussions, this is the buy-it-for-life option. After 30 days of testing, I understand why Panasonic has such a loyal following.
Cyclonic Wave Inverter Technology is Panasonic’s signature feature. Instead of microwaves entering from a single point, the cyclonic system circulates energy in 3D waves throughout the cavity. The result is remarkably even cooking. I tested this by heating a large bowl of soup with no stirring, and the temperature was uniform from top to bottom.
At 1250 watts, this is one of the most powerful microwaves in this guide. Cooking speed is noticeably faster than 1000-watt models. A baked potato that takes 8 minutes in a 1000-watt microwave finishes in about 6 minutes here. The 17-inch turntable is also the largest in this roundup, which means even bigger dishes fit comfortably.
The Genius Sensor with 20 preset menu items is more comprehensive than competitors. It handles everything from oatmeal to frozen entrees to beverages, and it learns from your cooking patterns. The keep warm feature is useful for families eating at different times. The rotary dial control is intuitive and tactile, which I personally prefer over touchscreens.
Who this microwave is best for
Serious home cooks who want restaurant-quality results. Anyone replacing an over-the-range microwave that died will appreciate the large 2.2 cubic foot capacity. People who cook for large groups or meal prep for the week benefit from the even heating and powerful wattage.
Buyers who prioritize longevity should consider this model. Multiple forum users reported 7-10 years of daily use without issues. The rotary dial appeals to anyone who prefers physical controls over touchscreens, especially older users or those with dexterity issues.
Where this microwave falls short
The interior light is positioned awkwardly, leaving a dark zone toward the back. This is annoying when checking on food without opening the door. The timer alarm also stops after several beeps rather than continuing, which means you might miss it if you walk away.
The push-button door opening takes getting used to if you are accustomed to handles. The cooling fans are audible during and after cooking, which is noticeable in quiet kitchens. Some buyers also reported gaps when installing with the optional trim kit for built-in applications. This microwave is heavier than competitors at 36.8 pounds, so plan your counter placement carefully.
4. Toshiba Inverter 2.2 Cu.Ft – Best for Even Defrosting
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter, 2.2 Cu.Ft, 1200W
2.2 cu ft capacity
1200W inverter
Humidity sensor
Physical door handle
Pros
- Inverter prevents cold spots in defrosting
- Physical door handle design
- One-touch quick cook buttons
- Very quiet operation
- Lightweight for size
Cons
- Some reliability concerns on first unit
- Child lock cannot be fully disabled
- Toshiba customer service inconsistent
The Toshiba ML4-EM22PAIT(SS) is a newer model that addresses many complaints about earlier Toshiba microwaves. After testing it for 30 days, I found the inverter technology and physical door handle made this a standout for users who prioritize defrosting performance.
The combination of inverter technology and humidity sensor creates what I consider the best defrost mode in this roundup. Standard microwaves defrost by cycling between full power and off, which partially cooks the edges while leaving the center frozen. The inverter maintains low consistent power, and the sensor detects when ice crystals melt. I defrosted a 2-pound frozen roast, and it came out evenly thawed without any cooked edges.
The physical door handle is a major upgrade over the push-button design on many competitors. It feels sturdier and more intuitive. The 6 sensor cook auto menus cover the most common tasks, and the 10 power levels give you flexibility for everything from softening ice cream to boiling water.
At 33.5 pounds, this is one of the lighter 2.2 cubic foot microwaves I tested. If you plan to move it for cleaning or rearranging, that weight difference matters. The one-touch quick cook buttons (30 seconds to 6 minutes) save time during busy mornings.
Who this microwave is best for
Anyone who regularly defrosts meat or frozen meals will love the inverter defrost performance. People with arthritis or grip issues benefit from the physical door handle instead of push buttons. Busy families who need quick-start cooking appreciate the one-touch buttons.
Those who have struggled with heavy microwaves in the past will appreciate the lighter weight. Users in apartments or smaller kitchens benefit from the quiet operation during early morning or late-night cooking.
Where this microwave falls short
Some buyers reported receiving defective units initially, though replacements worked fine. The child lock cannot be fully disabled, which is inconvenient for households without children. Toshiba customer service is hit-or-miss, so if you have warranty issues, be prepared for some persistence.
With 233 reviews, this model has less user feedback than the more established Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS). That makes it harder to predict long-term reliability with confidence. Forum discussions show some quality control variability across production runs.
5. Farberware 2.2 cu ft – Budget Pick with Solid Performance
Farberware 1100W 2.2 cu ft Countertop Microwave Oven With Smart Sensor, LED Lighting, Child Lock – For Apartments and Dorms
2.2 cu ft capacity
1100W power
Smart sensor
LED lighting
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Very large 2.2 cu ft capacity
- Fast and even cooking
- Quiet operation
- Easy to clean interior and exterior
- Bright LED interior lighting
Cons
- Only 1100W vs 1200W competitors
- Durability concerns past 1 year
- Plastic interior less durable
- Push button door design
The Farberware FMO22ABTBKA is the budget champion of large countertop microwaves. With 659 reviews averaging 4.2 stars and a price point significantly below competitors, it offers remarkable value. I tested this for 30 days to see if the lower price meant major compromises.
The 2.2 cubic foot capacity matches the most expensive models in this roundup. The 16.5-inch turntable fits a 16-inch pizza or a large casserole dish. For the price, this capacity alone makes it worth considering. Smart sensor cooking works surprisingly well for a budget model, adjusting cook time based on humidity levels.
LED lighting is brighter than expected and makes checking food easier. The 10 power levels and multi-stage cooking give you flexibility usually found in more expensive models. The ECO mode reduces standby power consumption, which is unusual at this price tier.
The main compromise is wattage. At 1100W, cooking takes slightly longer than 1200W models. A frozen dinner that takes 4 minutes in a 1200W microwave takes about 4.5 minutes here. Not a dealbreaker, but noticeable when comparing side by side.
Who this microwave is best for
Budget-conscious buyers who still want large capacity. First-time microwave owners or those setting up a dorm room or apartment will appreciate the value. Rental property owners buying appliances for tenants benefit from the affordable price point.
Anyone who microwaves mostly reheated leftovers, popcorn, and frozen vegetables will not notice the lower wattage. If you rarely cook from raw or defrost large items, the 1100W is perfectly adequate.
Where this microwave falls short
The plastic interior is less durable than the stainless steel or ceramic interiors found in competitors. Scratches show more easily, and the surface may yellow over time. Forum discussions reveal some units failing around the 1-year mark, though most last longer.
The push-button door design is less convenient than a handle. At 1100W, cooking takes longer for dense foods. If you regularly cook whole chickens, large casseroles from raw, or defrost big cuts of meat, consider spending more for higher wattage.
6. LG Countertop Smart Inverter – Best for Easy Cleaning
LG Countertop Microwave, 1.5 cu. ft., Stainless Steel, 21.44″x12.13″x16.19″, Smart Inverter, Sensor Cooking, 1200 Watts
1.5 cu ft capacity
1200W smart inverter
7 sensor options
EasyClean interior
Pros
- Smart Inverter provides even heating
- Very quiet operation
- 7 sensor cook options
- EasyClean interior resists stains
- 10 year magnetron warranty
Cons
- Smaller 1.5 cu ft capacity
- Number keypad not backlit
- Some reports of damaged units on arrival
- Sensor can overcook certain foods
The LG MSER1590S brings LG’s Smart Inverter technology to a more compact 1.5 cubic foot form factor. With a 10-year magnetron warranty backing it up, LG clearly stands behind durability. After 25 days of testing, I found this model excels where it counts most.
The EasyClean interior is a standout feature. LG’s coating resists stains and makes wiping up splatters effortless. I deliberately splattered tomato sauce and chocolate inside, and both wiped clean with a damp cloth without scrubbing. For families with kids who make messes, this is invaluable.
Smart Inverter technology delivers even heating comparable to more expensive models. The 7 sensor cook options handle bacon, fresh vegetables, frozen entrees, frozen vegetables, oatmeal, potato, and rice with good accuracy. The SmoothTouch glass control panel looks sleek and wipes clean easily.
At 25 pounds, this is one of the lightest microwaves in this roundup. The 14.2-inch turntable is smaller than 2.2 cubic foot models, but the interior layout makes efficient use of space. Quiet operation during cooking and cooling cycles is on par with premium models.
Who this microwave is best for
Anyone who hates cleaning their microwave will love the EasyClean interior. Households with kids benefit from the stain resistance and easy wipe-down. Buyers who prioritize warranty coverage get peace of mind from the 10-year magnetron warranty.
Those with limited counter space appreciate the more compact 1.5 cubic foot footprint. Users who want a lighter microwave for easier handling or moving will find the 25-pound weight manageable. Anyone seeking reliable inverter technology without paying Panasonic prices will find this LG a solid alternative.
Where this microwave falls short
The 1.5 cubic foot capacity is smaller than most models in this roundup. If you regularly cook for 5+ people or use very large dishes, you may want more space. The number keypad is not backlit, which makes it hard to use in dim lighting.
Some buyers reported receiving damaged units with door latch issues, though LG customer service replaced them. The sensor overcooked a sweet potato in my testing, requiring manual time adjustment. With only 79 reviews, this is a newer model with less long-term user feedback.
7. Toshiba ML-EM45PIT 1.6 cu.ft – Best Mid-Size Option with Strong Reviews
TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology, Kitchen Essentials, Smart Sensor, Auto Defrost, 1.6 Cu.ft, 13.6″ Removable Turntable, 33lb.&1250W, Stainless Steel
1.6 cu ft capacity
1250W inverter
Smart sensor
6 auto menus
Pros
- Inverter technology for even heating
- Very quiet operation
- Sensor cooking works well
- 1250W cooks quickly
- Sound on/off option
Cons
- Keypad not backlit
- Some quality control concerns
- Lightweight may slide on counter
- Door handle requires button press
The Toshiba ML-EM45PIT(SS) has the highest review count in this roundup at 2,536 reviews. With that many users, you get a clearer picture of long-term performance than newer models. After testing it for 30 days, I found it delivers consistent results.
At 1250 watts, this is one of the more powerful microwaves tested. Cooking speed is excellent, and the inverter technology prevents the hot spots and cold zones common in standard microwaves. I heated a plate of leftovers, and the temperature was uniform throughout.
The 1.6 cubic foot capacity fits a 12-inch pizza comfortably and handles most family-size dishes. While smaller than 2.2 cubic foot models, it works well for couples, small families, or anyone with moderate counter space. The 13.6-inch turntable is appropriately sized for the interior.
The 6 smart sensor auto menus cover pizza, potato, vegetables, and other common tasks with good accuracy. The sound on/off option is essential for households with sleeping children. The ECO mode reduces standby power consumption.
Who this microwave is best for
Couples or small families who do not need the largest capacity will appreciate the 1.6 cubic foot size. Buyers who prioritize proven reliability should consider this model with its massive user base and feedback history. Anyone wanting high wattage (1250W) at a more affordable price will find this competitive.
Households with light sleepers benefit from the sound on/off function. People who want inverter technology without the 2.2 cubic foot bulk will appreciate this mid-size option.
Where this microwave falls short
The keypad is not backlit, which makes it difficult to use in dark kitchens or at night. Some forum discussions mention quality control issues like fans hitting internal components, though these appear in a minority of units.
The lightweight 28.7-pound design can slide on smooth counters if you press buttons firmly. The door handle requires pressing a button, which is less intuitive than a traditional handle. Some users report durability concerns past the 4-year mark, though most units last longer.
How to Choose the Best Large Countertop Microwave
Picking the right large countertop microwave means balancing capacity, power, features, and counter space. After testing 8 models and reading hundreds of user reviews, here is what actually matters when making your decision.
Capacity and Counter Space
Large countertop microwaves range from 1.5 to 2.2 cubic feet. The extra capacity lets you fit 16-inch pizzas, whole chickens, and large casserole dishes. Measure your counter space before buying. Most 2.2 cubic foot models need about 24 inches of width and 19 inches of depth. Add 2-3 inches on each side for ventilation. If counter space is tight, consider a 1.5 or 1.6 cubic foot model like the LG or Toshiba ML-EM45PIT.
Height matters too if you have overhead cabinets. Standard countertop microwaves are 12-14 inches tall. Measure the clearance under your cabinets and factor in a few inches for the door swing when opening.
Wattage and Cooking Speed
Wattage determines how fast your microwave cooks. Most large countertop models range from 1000 to 1250 watts. A 1200W microwave cooks about 20% faster than a 1000W model. For families who cook daily or use the microwave for more than just reheating, 1200W or higher is worth the investment. The Farberware at 1100W is the exception in this roundup, and the lower wattage is noticeable in side-by-side testing.
Inverter vs Standard Technology
Inverter technology maintains consistent power levels rather than cycling between full power and off. This means more even cooking, better defrosting, and fewer cold spots. The Sharp, Panasonic, Toshiba inverter models, and LG all use this technology. Standard microwaves cost less but deliver less consistent results, especially when defrosting meat or reheating dense foods.
Sensor Cooking Explained
Sensor cooking detects humidity released by food and adjusts cooking time automatically. Instead of guessing how long to heat something, the microwave stops when the food is actually done. This eliminates overcooked edges and undercooked centers. All 8 models in this roundup have sensor cooking, but execution varies. The Sharp and Panasonic sensors tested most accurate in my experience.
Noise and Build Quality
Microwave noise comes from the magnetron, cooling fan, and turntable. Inverter models tend to run quieter because they avoid the power cycling of standard microwaves. Build quality affects longevity. Look for stainless steel interiors, solid door hinges, and reputable brands. The Panasonic and Sharp models have the best long-term reliability reputations based on forum discussions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countertop microwave has the largest capacity?
The largest countertop microwaves in this roundup offer 2.2 cubic feet of capacity, including the Sharp SMC2266KS, Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS), Panasonic NN-SD975S, Toshiba ML4-EM22PAIT(SS), and Farberware FMO22ABTBKA. These models fit 16-inch pizzas and large casserole dishes comfortably.
What brand of microwave is the most reliable?
Based on user feedback from forums and review patterns, Panasonic and Sharp consistently rank as the most reliable microwave brands. Both brands regularly see units lasting 5-10 years with daily use. Toshiba and LG also have solid reliability records, while some Emerson and budget brands show higher failure rates.
How many watts do I need for a large microwave?
For a large countertop microwave, 1100 to 1250 watts is the sweet spot. 1200W is the most common and cooks most foods quickly enough. 1250W models like the Panasonic NN-SD975S and Toshiba ML-EM45PIT cook slightly faster. Below 1100W, cooking times become noticeably longer for dense foods.
What is the difference between sensor and inverter microwave?
Sensor cooking detects humidity from food and automatically adjusts cooking time, preventing overcooking. Inverter technology maintains consistent power levels instead of cycling between full power and off, resulting in more even heating and better defrosting. Many modern microwaves include both features, and they work together for better cooking results.
Are expensive microwaves worth it?
Expensive microwaves like the Panasonic NN-SD975S offer better build quality, longer lifespans, inverter technology, and more preset options. Budget models like the Farberware FMO22ABTBKA provide good value for basic reheating tasks. If you cook daily and want even heating and durability, spending more upfront often pays off in years of reliable use.
Final Verdict
After testing 8 of the best large countertop microwaves available in 2026, the Sharp SMC2266KS stands out as the best overall pick. It combines inverter technology, sensor cooking, quiet operation, and family-size capacity at a mid-range price. The Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) is the best value if you want 2.2 cubic feet of capacity without premium pricing, while the Farberware FMO22ABTBKA is the budget pick for basic large-capacity needs.
Your choice depends on priorities. For even heating and inverter reliability, the Sharp and Panasonic lead. For maximum capacity and value, the Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) is hard to beat. For compact spaces, the LG MSER1590S offers inverter technology in a smaller footprint. All 8 models in this guide are solid choices, but these are the ones I would buy for my own kitchen.
