Ever feel like you’re drowning in a sea of microwave oven options, especially when your budget is tight? It’s true! Finding a microwave that heats your food perfectly without costing a fortune can feel like a treasure hunt. Many of us need a microwave for quick meals, reheating leftovers, or even just popping popcorn, but the sheer number of brands and features can be overwhelming. You want something reliable, easy to use, and, of course, affordable.
That’s exactly why we’re here! This post is your friendly guide to navigating the world of cheap microwave ovens. We’ll break down what really matters when you’re shopping on a budget. You’ll learn how to spot great deals, understand the basic features you actually need, and discover some top-notch, budget-friendly models that get the job done. Get ready to find a microwave that fits your kitchen and your wallet!
Our Top 5 Cheap Microwave Oven Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Cheap Microwave Oven Detailed Reviews
1. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 8.9/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. is a handy kitchen appliance. It offers 700 watts of power and a 0.7 cubic foot capacity, making it great for small spaces. This black microwave comes with 10 power levels and 6 helpful cooking presets. You can easily heat up snacks or cook meals with its one-touch express cook feature. It also has a child safety lock and a mute button for convenience.
What We Like:
- It cooks food extra-quick with six popular presets like popcorn and pizza.
- You can control the cooking power with 10 different levels, from low to high.
- The digital controls are easy to use, and the +30 seconds button is super helpful.
- A memory function lets you save your favorite cooking settings for one-touch access.
- The child safety lock keeps little hands out, and the mute option means no more annoying beeps.
- Its modern, compact design looks good in any kitchen, and Eco Mode saves energy.
- Cleaning is simple; the exterior wipes clean easily, and the glass turntable is dishwasher safe.
- Chefman offers trusted quality with cETL approval and a 1-year assurance.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic foot capacity might be too small for very large dishes or multiple items.
- While powerful for its size, 700 watts might take slightly longer for some cooking tasks compared to higher wattage microwaves.
This Chefman microwave is a smart choice for those needing a compact and feature-rich appliance. It balances convenience and functionality for everyday kitchen needs.
2. Farberware Countertop 700 Watts
Rating: 8.5/10
Need a reliable microwave for your kitchen or office? The Farberware Countertop 700-Watt Microwave Oven in black is a great choice. It’s designed for quick meals and snacks, fitting easily into smaller spaces.
What We Like:
- It’s powerful, with 700 watts of cooking power.
- It has ten different power levels and multi-stage cooking.
- You get six one-touch cooking options for things like popcorn and pizza.
- The defrost feature works by weight or time, making it super easy.
- Its 0.7 cubic feet size is perfect for apartments, dorm rooms, or small offices.
- The interior and exterior are easy to clean.
- It features a clear LED display with a clock and kitchen timer.
- The interior light helps you see your food as it cooks.
- A child safety lock adds an extra layer of security.
What Could Be Improved:
- With 700 watts, it might take a little longer to cook larger portions compared to higher wattage microwaves.
- The 0.7 cu ft capacity is compact, so it may not fit very large dishes.
This Farberware microwave offers a good balance of features and convenience for everyday use. It’s a solid option for anyone needing a simple and effective countertop microwave.
3. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 9.0/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a handy appliance for any kitchen. It’s a compact microwave, measuring just 0.7 cubic feet, making it ideal for smaller spaces like dorm rooms or apartments. This stainless steel microwave offers a good amount of power at 700 watts, with ten different power settings to help you cook or reheat food just right. Plus, it comes with helpful pre-programmed buttons for common foods like popcorn and pizza, taking the guesswork out of cooking.
What We Like:
- It has pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and dinner plates.
- The microwave has a 30-second express cooking button for quick reheating.
- It features a large LED digital display and an easy-to-read control panel.
- A child safety lock is included for added protection.
- The interior light lets you see your food as it cooks.
- It comes with a removable 10-inch glass turntable for even cooking.
- The push-button door release makes it easy to open.
- It’s UL approved and comes with a one-year limited warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 700-watt power might be a bit slow for some users who prefer faster cooking.
- While compact, the 0.7 cubic feet capacity might be too small for larger dishes or family-sized meals.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for simple cooking and reheating needs. It offers useful features in a compact design.
4. COMFEE CMO-C20M1WB Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.1/10
The COMFEE CMO-C20M1WB Countertop Microwave Oven is a small but mighty kitchen helper. It’s perfect for dorm rooms, small apartments, or anyone who needs a reliable microwave without taking up too much counter space. This 0.7 cubic-foot microwave packs 700 watts of power and offers 11 different power levels, so you can cook and reheat your food just right. Plus, it has some smart features that make cooking even easier.
What We Like:
- It has a stylish look that fits nicely in any kitchen.
- The compact size is great for small spaces.
- You get 11 power levels for precise cooking.
- The two-step child lock feature keeps little hands safe.
- Speedy cooking is a breeze with one-touch buttons for common foods like popcorn and pizza.
- Defrosting is simple with options for weight or time.
- A bright digital display and easy-to-read controls make it user-friendly.
- The 10-inch glass turntable ensures even cooking.
- It includes a memory function to save your favorite settings.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic-foot capacity might be too small for larger dishes or families.
- While it has many features, some users might prefer more advanced cooking presets.
This COMFEE microwave is a solid choice for everyday use, offering a good balance of size, power, and helpful features.
5. Emerson MW7601SL Compact Countertop Microwave Oven with Sleek Mirrored Finish Door 10 Power Levels
Rating: 9.0/10
The Emerson MW7601SL is a compact countertop microwave that brings style and convenience to your kitchen. Its sleek, mirrored finish door adds a modern touch, while its 0.7 cubic foot capacity is perfect for small spaces. This microwave offers versatile cooking with 10 power levels and 6 helpful auto-menus, making meal prep a breeze. It also features a glass turntable for even cooking and a child-safe lock for peace of mind. The clear LED display and digital clock let you easily monitor your food and keep track of time.
What We Like:
- Offers 10 different power levels for precise cooking.
- Includes 6 pre-programmed settings for easy meal preparation.
- Features a stylish, easy-to-clean mirrored finish door.
- Time and weight defrost options make thawing food quick and simple.
- The LED display and digital clock are easy to read and use.
- Has a child-safe lock for added safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be too small for larger dishes or families.
- While stylish, the mirrored door could show fingerprints easily.
This Emerson microwave is a great option for those seeking a compact and stylish appliance. It balances useful features with a modern look, making it a solid addition to most kitchens.
Your Guide to Finding a Great Deal on a Microwave Oven
Microwave ovens are kitchen superheroes. They heat up leftovers fast, pop popcorn, and even cook meals. You don’t need to spend a lot to get a good one. This guide will help you find a cheap microwave oven that works great for your needs.
1. Key Features to Look For in a Budget Microwave
Power (Wattage):
Microwaves use wattage to measure their heating power. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most budget microwaves have between 700 and 1000 watts. For everyday tasks like reheating and cooking simple meals, 700-800 watts is usually enough. If you plan to cook more often or want things heated quicker, aim for 900-1000 watts.
Size and Capacity:
Microwaves come in different sizes. Small ones are good for apartments or small kitchens. They usually hold about 0.7 to 1.0 cubic feet. Medium-sized ones are more common and hold 1.0 to 1.6 cubic feet. Think about what you’ll be heating. If you want to fit a larger plate or a casserole dish, go for a bigger one.
Cooking Presets:
Many microwaves have buttons for common foods like popcorn, baked potatoes, or frozen dinners. These presets take the guesswork out of cooking. Some even have multi-stage cooking, letting you set different power levels and times for one cycle.
Turntable:
A glass turntable helps food cook evenly. It spins the food around so all sides get heated. Most microwaves have this feature, but it’s worth checking.
Ease of Use:
Look for a microwave with simple controls. Big buttons and a clear display make it easy to use, even when you’re in a hurry. Some have touch controls, which are sleek but can sometimes be less sensitive than physical buttons.
2. Important Materials
Most microwave ovens have an outer casing made of painted steel. This is durable and easy to clean. The inside is usually stainless steel or a ceramic enamel coating. Stainless steel is strong and easy to wipe down. Ceramic enamel is also easy to clean and can be scratch-resistant. The door usually has a glass window so you can see your food cooking, and a metal mesh inside to block microwaves.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Build Quality:
A well-built microwave will feel sturdy. The door should open and close smoothly. Buttons should feel responsive. Cheaper microwaves might have thinner materials or less sturdy hinges, which could break over time.
Even Heating:
The best microwaves heat food evenly. If a microwave leaves cold spots, it’s not a good sign. This can sometimes be due to the placement of the microwave’s heating element or the turntable design.
Noise Level:
Some microwaves are louder than others. If you’re sensitive to noise, check reviews to see if a particular model is known for being quiet.
Durability:
While budget microwaves might not last as long as high-end models, a good one should still hold up for several years with proper care. Reading user reviews can give you an idea of how long a microwave typically lasts.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
A budget microwave is perfect for simple tasks. Reheating leftovers, making instant noodles, or popping popcorn are its bread and butter. They are great for dorm rooms, small apartments, or as a secondary microwave in a larger kitchen. If you’re a busy student or a single person who doesn’t cook elaborate meals, a cheap microwave is a smart choice. It saves time and energy compared to using a conventional oven for small portions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cheap Microwave Ovens
Q: What is the average price range for a cheap microwave oven?
A: A cheap microwave oven typically costs between $50 and $100, depending on the brand, features, and sales.
Q: Are cheap microwaves as good as expensive ones?
A: Cheap microwaves can be very good for basic needs. They might have fewer fancy features or slightly less power, but they still heat food effectively.
Q: What is the minimum wattage I should look for?
A: For basic reheating and cooking, at least 700 watts is recommended. More wattage means faster cooking.
Q: Do I need a turntable in my microwave?
A: Yes, a turntable helps food cook more evenly by rotating it. Most microwaves come with one.
Q: What does “cubic feet” mean for microwave size?
A: Cubic feet is the internal capacity of the microwave. Larger cubic feet means you can fit bigger dishes inside.
Q: Can I cook full meals in a cheap microwave?
A: You can cook many simple meals, like pasta or steamed vegetables. Complex recipes might take longer or not cook as evenly.
Q: How do I clean a budget microwave?
A: You can usually clean the inside with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tough stains, microwave a bowl of water with lemon slices for a few minutes to loosen the grime.
Q: Are there specific brands known for affordable microwaves?
A: Brands like Oster, Hamilton Beach, and some store brands often offer good, budget-friendly microwave options.
Q: What is the warranty like on cheaper microwaves?
A: Warranties on budget microwaves can vary, but they often come with a one-year limited warranty.
Q: Where is the best place to buy a cheap microwave oven?
A: You can find good deals at big box stores, online retailers like Amazon, and sometimes during holiday sales events.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.