7 Best Microwaves Under $100 That Offer Great Performance on a Budget
Looking for a microwave that won’t cost too much but still works well? There are many good options under $100. These microwaves have easy-to-use features, small sizes for tight spaces, and good heating power.
With so many choices, it’s hard to pick the best one. Think about what you need—like space, strength, and safety—to find the right microwave.
Ready to see the best budget-friendly options? Let’s go!
TOSHIBA ML4-EM12PA(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven
- Compact Design: With external dimensions of 20.6x16.3x11.8 inches (WxDxH) and internal dimensions of 13.9x14.1x10 inches (WxDxH), this stylish black...
- Versatile Cooking: Featuring 10 unique power levels and 13 preset menus for effortless sensor cook of various dishes, snacks, and beverages, this...
- User-Friendly Features: Enjoy convenient functions like defrosting frozen food by weight or time, mute mode to silence the beeping sound, and a memory...
If you want a small, stylish microwave that costs less than $100, the TOSHIBA ML4-EM12PA(BS) could be a good choice. It has a sleek black stainless steel look that fits nicely in small kitchens, dorm rooms, or apartments. The microwave has a 12.4-inch glass turntable, which gives you enough space to cook or heat food easily. It offers 1.2 cubic feet of space inside and 1000 watts of power. This means your food heats up quickly and evenly.
The microwave also has handy features. It includes 10 power levels, sensor-based auto menus that help cook food just right, and options to defrost by weight or time. These features make it simple to use for everyday tasks.
However, some users have noticed issues. The control panel can be hard to see because the display is small and dim. Some say the parts may not last long; the control panel can wear out over time. Also, the manual instructions are not very clear, which can make setup tricky.
This microwave’s modern design and fast heating make it a good budget option. It works well for people who want a compact, stylish microwave for small spaces.
Best for: people who want a small, attractive microwave that heats food fast and costs less than $100.
Pros:
- Looks sleek with its black stainless steel design
- Heats food quickly with 1000 watts
- Has useful features like auto menus and defrost options
Cons:
- The display is small and hard to read
- Some parts, like the control panel, may wear out
- Instructions can be hard to understand
If you want a simple, budget-friendly microwave for everyday use, this model is worth considering. Just keep in mind the display and durability issues before buying.
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 2.2 Cu Ft
- Smart Sensor Cooking Technology: Auto-adjusts time and power for Dinner Plates, Fresh Veggies & Frozen Veggies modes-based on food moisture levels,...
- Dual Defrost Modes & Express Cooking: Defrost by time or weight for precise thawing + quick-cook function for busy lifestyles (Ideal for popcorn,...
- LED Display & Lighting: Blue LED touchscreen with digital kitchen timer + bright interior lighting for 360° visibility of cooking progress
The BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven with 2.2 cubic feet of space is a great choice if you want a big, feature-packed microwave that costs less than $100. It has a powerful 1200W motor and a sleek stainless steel look. This microwave can hold up to 12 dinner plates, so it’s perfect for families or when you have guests over.
It features Smart Sensor Cooking, which adjusts the time and power while cooking to give you better results without guesswork. The digital LED touchscreen makes it easy to pick programs, and the bright interior light helps you see what’s inside. There are also preset menus for common foods, making cooking simple.
You can install this microwave in different ways, and it also has a child safety lock to keep kids safe. All these features make it a practical, reliable choice that fits most budgets.
Best For: Families or hosting friends who need a roomy, easy-to-use microwave with smart features for less than $100.
Pros:
- Big size with 2.2 cubic feet space, holding up to 12 dinner plates
- Smart Sensor Cooking adjusts cook time automatically
- Easy-to-use digital touchscreen and preset menus
Cons:
- Needs a separate trim kit for built-in installation, which costs more and may be tricky to set up
- Weighs about 49.2 pounds, so moving it often could be hard
- Mostly available in stainless steel, which may not match every kitchen style
BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.Voltage : 110 Volts.Rated Input...
- 700 Watts with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 Seconds Express Cooking
- Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 10” glass turntable
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 microwave is a good choice for people on a budget. It gives reliable reheating and cooking. It has 700 watts of power and 10 different levels. This makes it fast to heat up many types of food. The microwave has buttons for popcorn, pizza, and other common foods. These buttons make it easy to use. The big LED display shows the time and timer details clearly. The microwave also has a 10-inch glass turntable. This helps heat food evenly. It includes safety features like a child lock and an interior light. The outside is made of shiny stainless steel, which looks nice. Some users report problems like the inside peeling or rusting after a year. The control buttons have small labels that are hard to read. Also, it can be unsteady on smooth surfaces because it lacks anti-slip feet. Overall, this microwave is a good deal for everyday use. It is simple, affordable, and works well for most homes that need quick heating.
Farberware Countertop Microwave, 700W, 0.7 Cu Ft
- CONVENIENT MICROWAVE: Prepare quick and easy meals in a snap with our powerful microwave. It packs 700 of output power and features a range of...
- POWERFUL SETTINGS: This microwave has ten power levels with multi-stage cooking. You can fully customize your cooking with six one-touch options,...
- PERFECT SIZE: Measuring 0.7 cu ft, this microwave is the ideal small-space solution that offers full-sized cooking in a compact space. It features an...
Looking for an affordable microwave that fits well in small spaces? The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a great choice. It offers 700W of power and a 0.7 cubic foot capacity. This size is perfect for apartments, dorm rooms, or offices. The microwave has a sleek stainless steel exterior that is easy to clean. It also features a large digital display, LED lighting, and a bright interior, making cooking simple and convenient.
This microwave has ten different power levels. It also includes six one-touch presets for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and more. These make it easy to cook your favorite foods quickly. The child safety lock helps keep everyone safe. The easy-grip handle makes opening the door smooth. Its compact size saves space on your counter.
People who buy this microwave like how fast it heats food. Many say it works well and is simple to use. It is a good budget-friendly option for everyday use.
Best For: People who want a small, affordable microwave for small kitchens, dorms, or offices. It is good for quick and easy cooking.
Pros:
- Stylish stainless steel exterior that is easy to wipe clean.
- Many preset options and ten different power levels.
- Compact size with a clear digital display and interior light.
Cons:
- Some users find the seconds input method a little complicated.
- It can be a bit noisier than older microwave models.
- The door makes a “ker-chunk” sound when closing, which might be noticeable.
This microwave is a simple, reliable pick for small spaces. It heats food quickly and has features that make cooking easier. If you want a small, budget-friendly microwave, this one could be right for you.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu. Ft., 900W
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or...
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 900W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt...
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and...
If you want a small microwave that works well and doesn’t cost too much, the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a good pick. It has a 0.9 cubic-foot space and uses 900 watts of power. That means it warms up food fast and evenly. The digital control panel is simple to use. It has 10 power levels, six preset cooking options, and a one-touch Express Cook button for quick use. The black color gives it a nice modern look. It also has a glass turntable, interior light, and safety lock for kids. Many users like how fast it heats food, how it looks, and how easy it is to use. Some users have experienced small problems, like electrical sparks or quality issues. Overall, it offers good value for everyday cooking needs.
Best For: people who want an affordable, small microwave that heats food quickly and has basic features for daily use.
Pros:
- Sleek black look with easy digital controls
- Heats food fast with several preset options and Express Cook
- Interior light and glass turntable make using it simple
Cons:
- Some users report quality problems or sparking issues
- The crisp heating feature may not work well for everyone
- Size might be small for cooking large meals or lots of leftovers
COMFEE Countertop Microwave Oven with Easy One-Touch Buttons
- Mute function, settings, clock, kitchen timer, child safety lock, easy auto-cook functions: Popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen veggie, beverage, reheat
- One touch express cooking function with 1-6 minutes and plus30 seconds functions, and two defrost settings (by weight or by time)
- Energy Saving Eco Mode: Minimizing 50% standby power by turning on ECO mode
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly microwave that’s easy to use, the COMFEE Countertop Microwave Oven is a good choice. It’s small and light, making it easy to fit on small counters or shelves. Its size is 13 by 17.3 by 10.2 inches. It has 700 watts of power and 11 levels to adjust heat. This helps you warm up food or cook simple meals quickly and simply.
The microwave has buttons for one-touch auto-cook. You can press buttons for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, or drinks. This makes it easy to operate without lots of settings. It also has a modern black look, a digital screen, a light inside, and a removable turntable. These features add to the convenience of using it every day.
This microwave works well for basic tasks. It’s not made for heavy cooking or large plates because of its small size. It heats food slower than stronger microwaves, with only 700W. Some users find that over time, parts wear out or break, which can affect how long it lasts.
Best for: People who live in small spaces like apartments, dorm rooms, or offices. It’s great for reheating leftovers or making simple meals.
Pros:
- Small and light, easy to place on counters
- Simple one-touch buttons for common foods
- Quiet and energy-saving features
Cons:
- Small interior may not fit large dishes
- Heats slowly because of lower power
- Some users see wear and tear with frequent use
This microwave offers a simple and affordable way to handle basic food tasks. It’s perfect if you want something easy to use and don’t need heavy-duty features.
Electrolux Built-In Microwave with Sensor Cook
The Electrolux Built-In Microwave with Sensor Cook is a stylish and space-saving choice for your kitchen. It has a width of 30 inches and a capacity of 1.6 cubic feet. This means you have plenty of space for your daily meals. The microwave delivers 1000 watts of power, so your food heats up quickly.
One of the best features is its sensor cook technology. This helps the microwave adjust the cooking time and power automatically. You don’t need to guess how long to cook your food; the microwave handles it for you.
The microwave has a stainless steel finish that looks modern and clean. Its built-in design means it fits neatly into your cabinets, keeping your countertop tidy. This microwave is perfect if you want a sleek look combined with easy and fast cooking.
It was first released in November 2021.
Who is it for?
It’s great for people who want a stylish, space-efficient microwave. It’s especially helpful if you like the convenience of sensor cooking.
Pros:
- It fits smoothly into your kitchen cabinets.
- Sensor cook adjusts cooking time automatically.
- 1000 watts heats food quickly.
Cons:
- It only fits in a 30-inch space, so check your kitchen.
- It costs more than basic countertop microwaves.
- The 1.6 cubic feet size might be small for big family meals.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Microwaves Under $100
When choosing a microwave under $100, think about its size. Pick one that fits your kitchen space and what you need to cook. Check how powerful it is. A higher watt number means it heats food faster. Make sure buttons and controls are simple to use. Good microwaves have safety features, like an automatic shut-off. Also, look for a sturdy build so it lasts longer. All these things help you get the best microwave for your money.
Size and Capacity
Choosing a microwave under $100 means paying attention to its size and capacity. Microwaves come in different sizes. Some are small, with about 0.7 cubic feet, and some are larger, up to 2.2 cubic feet. Small microwaves are good if you need something for one person, a dorm, or an office. But they may not fit big plates or many dishes at once.
Check the inside measurements—width, height, and depth—so your usual cookware will fit easily. The outside size also matters. Look at your countertop space. Make sure the microwave isn’t too big for the spot where you plan to put it. Also, consider ventilation and door clearance.
For everyday use, a microwave with at least 0.9 cubic feet of space is enough. It offers a good mix of being spacious enough and fitting well in your kitchen.
Power Output Ratings
Power output ratings in microwaves show how strong the microwave is. They are measured in watts. The watt number tells you how fast food heats up and how evenly it cooks.
Most cheap microwaves, costing less than $100, have watt ratings between 700W and 1200W. Microwave with higher watts heat food faster.
If you mostly reheat leftovers or make simple snacks, a microwave with 700W to 900W works fine. It might take a little longer to heat big or dense foods, but it will get the job done.
If you want a microwave that can do more, like defrosting, steaming, or cooking multiple dishes at once, pick one with a higher watt rating. Higher wattage microwaves cook more efficiently and quickly.
When picking a microwave, think about what you usually do with it. Choose one that gives you enough power without costing too much. Higher watt microwaves save time, but a lower wattage might be okay if you only need simple reheating.
Ease of Controls
Microwaves with simple controls make daily cooking easy. They help you get your food heated quickly without any confusion. Look for models that have easy-to-use buttons, big buttons, or a dial you can turn. Digital screens with clear, backlit numbers help you see the settings and time easily, even in dim light. One-touch buttons are great because you can press them for snacks like popcorn or drinks, saving you time. Some microwaves have mute options and simple control panels, which keep noise low and make the machine easier to operate. Make sure the controls are sturdy too, with sealed buttons that won’t wear out easily. Choosing a microwave with easy controls helps you cook faster and makes using it less frustrating.
Durability and Build
When you’re shopping for a microwave under $100, you want one that lasts. Cheap models can be made of different materials, so it’s important to check what they are. Look for microwaves with stainless steel or strong coatings inside. These can stop peeling, rust, or cracks over time. Also, check the door hinges, turntable, and control panel. They should be built tough so they don’t break or get loose after using them many times. Reading customer reviews helps. They can show you if a microwave has problems with its inner coat or outer parts. A good, long-lasting microwave has strong parts inside and safety features to stop warping or damage. Usually, heavier microwaves are stronger because they use better, thicker materials. This helps your microwave work well for a long time and makes it reliable.
Safety Features
Safety features are key to making sure your microwave works safely. Child lock buttons stop kids from turning it on or messing with it by accident. Overheat protection turns off the microwave if it gets too hot inside, which helps prevent fires and damage. Removable turntables make cleaning easy and help prevent spills that could cause accidents. Non-slip bases or supports keep the microwave steady while you use it. Automatic shut-off sensors keep food from overcooking. These safety features help you use your microwave with confidence, especially if you have kids or use it often.
DK Jacks is a passionate food enthusiast, recipe developer, and culinary explorer. With a love for both traditional and innovative flavors, DK brings a fresh perspective to the kitchen. When not experimenting with new ingredients, you’ll find DK capturing food moments through the lens or sharing cooking tips with fellow foodies.🍽️📸✨
Last update on 2025-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
