A kitchenette is a small kitchen with limited space and equipment. While a full kitchen might have a large stove, dishwasher, and plenty of counter space for cooking elaborate meals, a kitchenette includes just the basics: perhaps a small refrigerator, a two-burner stove or hot plate, a microwave, and a sink. You'll find kitchenettes in hotel rooms, small apartments, basement guest rooms, and college dorm suites.

You can make simple meals in a kitchenette like sandwiches, eggs, or instant noodles, but preparing Thanksgiving dinner would be challenging without full-sized appliances and counter space.

Kitchenettes offer convenience in tight spaces. A hotel kitchenette lets travelers save money by making their own breakfast instead of eating out. A basement kitchenette means guests staying downstairs can grab a snack without trudging upstairs in the middle of the night.