Does the thought of buying a new microwave leave your wallet feeling light? Many people need a microwave that heats food fast but do not want to spend a lot of money. Finding a good, cheap microwave can feel like a treasure hunt where most treasures are too expensive or just do not work well.
It is frustrating when you need a reliable appliance without breaking the bank. You look at the store, and the prices jump all over the place! We know you want something simple, dependable, and most importantly, affordable. You do not need fancy buttons; you just need hot leftovers!
Keep reading to discover the best budget-friendly microwaves that offer great value. We have researched the top picks that prove you do not have to sacrifice quality for a lower price. Get ready to find your perfect, inexpensive kitchen helper!
Top Inexpensive Microwave Recommendations
- Two-step Child Lock Feature: For extra protection and prevent misuse, all microwave oven manufacturers are asked to follow the new safety standard and add this 2-step child lock function
- Mute Function: Turn off all the microwave beeps by pressing the sound on/off button for 3 seconds, for a quiet cooking experience
- Easy one-touch express cooking function with 1-6 minutes and +30 seconds functions, and two defrost settings (by weight or by time). With easy auto-cook functions: Popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen veggie, beverage, reheat
- Energy Saving Eco Mode: Minimizes 50% standby power by using ECO mode
- Included Components: 1 Microwave Oven and 1 Manual Instruction Book
- COMPACT: Our Countertop Microwave is the ideal size to fit into your dormitories, apartment kitchens or workplace.
- DIGITAL PANEL: Our microwave features a Digital Control Panel that makes it really easy to use and provides choices for express cooking, altering the power level, postponing the start, setting the time, and stop/cancel features.
- CONVENIENT: Utilize the two different defrost timers to have full control over how you want your food to be warmed. Cook your personalized meals and snacks in stages.
- SAFE: Keep your little ones safe by using the Child Safety Lock that prevents inadvertent usage or access. The large display provides a crystal clear viewing of your meals for you to keep an eye on them to make sure it cooks perfectly.
- DIFFERENT SETTINGS: Intuitive cooking settings with a smart sensor automatically adjust power and time, removing the complexity from daily cooking. There are six different auto cooking settings to choose from (popcorn, baked potato, pizza, frozen, reheat, beverage).
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 700W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally. Just pull upwards on the top edge of the handle to open the microwave.
- MUTE OPTION: Silence this counter top microwave with the Audio Button, turning off any annoying beeps if you’re trying to stay quiet or not wake up your kids.
- 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave, Retro Design, 700 Watts, Black
- Speed/Weight Defrost
- Catchy Retro Look
- Retro Themed Over Sized Knob
- Child Safety Lock
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.Voltage : 110 Volts.Rated Input Power(Microwave):1050W
- 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
- Push-button door release for easy access
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”
- Countertop Microwave Oven: Prepare quick and easy meals in a snap with our powerful microwave ovens. It packs 700 of output power and features a range of settings for press-and-go speed
- Powerful Microwave Oven: This black microwave has 10 power levels with multi-stage cooking. You can fully customize your cooking with 6 one-touch options, including popcorn, potato, and pizza. Defrost by weight or by time settings to make quick work
- Compact Microwave: Measuring 0.7 cu ft, this small microwave is the ideal small-space solution that offers full-sized cooking in a compact space
- Microwave Oven with All You Need: Features a LED display, timer/clock,that lets you easily keep track of time. Interior lighting, 9.6" glass turntable for clear dish monitoring, and a child safety lock for added security
- Convenient Microwave: Our countertop microwave ovens features an easy-to-clean interior. Perfect for busy nights and memorable family feasts, crafting meals that create lasting memories
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
- 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 butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button.
- MEMORY FUNCTION: Program frequently used countertop microwaves functions into the control panel for one-touch microwave food. All your daily favorites are easy to set up and start microwaving.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally, and you can disable the microwave control panel using the Lock Mode.
- 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 settings for press-and-go speed.
- POWERFUL SETTINGS: This microwave has ten power levels with multi-stage cooking. You can fully customize your cooking with six one-touch options, including popcorn, potato, and pizza. Defrost by weight or by time settings to make quick work of any task.
- 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 easy-to-clean interior and exterior and is perfect for the home or office.
- ALL YOU NEED: This microwave has a clear LED display with a kitchen timer and clock that lets you easily keep track of time. Easy-to-view interior lighting lets you keep an eye on your dish, and a child safety lock adds additional security.
- FARBERWARE: From weeknight favorites to family feasts they'll never forget, Farberware helps today's families craft the meals that make memories and bring everyone together.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Inexpensive Microwaves
Finding a great microwave that won’t empty your wallet is totally possible! You need a reliable machine to heat up leftovers, pop popcorn, and defrost food quickly. This guide helps you pick the best budget-friendly option.
Key Features to Look For
Even cheap microwaves have important features. Don’t skip these essentials when you shop.
1. Correct Size and Capacity
- Countertop Space: Measure the spot where the microwave will sit. Small apartments need a compact model (around 0.7 cubic feet). Larger families might need a mid-size (1.0 to 1.2 cubic feet).
- Wattage Matters: Wattage (power) affects cooking speed. Look for at least 700 watts for basic heating. Higher wattage (1000+ watts) heats food faster, but costs a little more.
2. Simple Controls
- Dial vs. Buttons: Budget models often use a simple dial timer. This is easy to use—just turn it! Digital pads offer more precise settings (like 30 seconds exactly), which some people prefer.
- Preset Buttons: Basic presets like “Popcorn,” “Defrost,” and “Reheat” save you guessing time.
3. Turntable
A glass turntable is crucial. It spins your food around so the microwaves cook it evenly. Make sure it’s easy to remove for cleaning.
Important Materials in Budget Microwaves
The materials used affect how long your microwave lasts and how easy it is to keep clean.
Exterior and Interior Shell
- Plastic vs. Metal: Most inexpensive microwaves use a plastic exterior. This keeps the price low. The interior is often painted metal or a simple enamel coating.
- Cleaning: Look for a smooth interior finish. Spills wipe up much easier on smooth surfaces.
Door Mechanism
Check how the door opens. Some budget models use a push-button release. Others have a simple handle. Handles usually last longer than cheap push-buttons, but both work fine initially.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all cheap microwaves perform the same. A few small differences make a big impact on your daily use.
Quality Boosters
- Even Heating: Read reviews to see if the model heats food consistently. Microwaves that leave cold spots in the middle of your food are frustrating.
- Noise Level: A quieter fan and turntable motor make the experience better, especially in open-concept living spaces.
Quality Reducers (Watch Outs)
- Cheap Components: Very low-priced models sometimes use weaker internal parts. This means they might break sooner than more expensive brands.
- Flimsy Door Latches: If the door feels loose or rattles, it might not seal properly over time, which is a safety concern.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use your new appliance.
The Dorm Room Essential
For students or tiny kitchens, a small, simple microwave (under 1000 watts) is perfect. It needs to handle instant noodles and quick coffee reheating without taking up too much desk space.
The Office Break Room
In an office, durability and speed matter more. You want a model that heats a full plate of lunch quickly, usually meaning you should aim for 900 watts or higher, even if it costs a few dollars more.
Ease of Use
If you just want to press “Start” and have your food ready, choose a model with simple, clear controls. Overly complicated menus should be avoided in budget buys.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Inexpensive Microwaves
Q: How small can an inexpensive microwave be?
A: You can find very small, compact models around 0.5 cubic feet. These are great for very small counters or RVs.
Q: Do cheap microwaves cook food safely?
A: Yes. All microwaves sold must meet safety standards. They heat food using microwave radiation safely as long as the door seal remains intact.
Q: What is the minimum wattage I should accept?
A: We suggest sticking to models with at least 700 watts. Anything lower cooks food very slowly.
Q: Are inexpensive microwaves hard to clean?
A: No, usually they are easier because they have fewer complex features inside. Look for smooth, non-textured interiors.
Q: Can I put metal racks inside a budget microwave?
A: Only if the manufacturer specifically includes a metal rack designed for that model. Never use your own metal racks or aluminum foil inside any microwave.
Q: How long should a budget microwave last?
A: A well-cared-for, inexpensive microwave typically lasts between 5 and 8 years. Quality varies by brand.
Q: What does “manual defrost” mean?
A: It means you have to guess how long to defrost your meat. You set the time yourself instead of the machine calculating it based on weight.
Q: Are digital controls better than dials on cheap models?
A: Dials are usually more reliable on the cheapest machines because they have fewer electronic parts to fail.
Q: Should I buy a used microwave instead of a new cheap one?
A: Generally, buying new is better for microwaves. You get a warranty, and you know the door seal is brand new and safe.
Q: Do I need an inverter feature in a budget microwave?
A: No. Inverter technology provides very even, low-power cooking. This feature is usually found on mid-to-high-priced models. You can skip it when buying cheap.