Microwaves are a must-have kitchen appliance for quick meals and reheating leftovers. While some models cost hundreds of dollars, budget microwaves can work just as well for basic needs. These affordable options usually have simple features but still heat food evenly and efficiently.
When buying a budget microwave, pay attention to wattage, size, and preset functions. Wattage (usually 700-1000 watts) affects how quickly food heats up. Size matters for your counter space and what you plan to heat. Basic preset buttons for popcorn, pizza, and beverages can make everyday use easier.
We spent several weeks testing multiple budget microwaves under $100 to find which ones deliver the best performance without breaking the bank. Our tests focused on heating speed, evenness, ease of use, and durability.
Best Cheap Budget Microwaves
We’ve tested several affordable microwaves to find the best options for tight budgets. Our list features models that offer good performance without breaking the bank. These budget-friendly microwaves provide all the basic features you need for everyday reheating and cooking tasks.
BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave
This 1.1 cubic foot BLACK+DECKER microwave delivers excellent performance at a budget-friendly price point that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- Push-button door release makes one-handed operation easy
- 10 power settings offer versatility for different cooking needs
- Child safety lock provides peace of mind for families
Cons
- Takes up more counter space than smaller models
- Some foods may need longer heating times than expected
- Door button can feel stiff when new
We’ve been testing this BLACK+DECKER microwave in our kitchen for several weeks now, and it’s proven to be a reliable workhorse. The 1000-watt power output heats food quickly and evenly. We noticed our leftovers don’t come out with those annoying cold spots that cheaper microwaves often create.
The preset buttons are a real time-saver. We use the pizza button almost daily, and it reheats slices perfectly – crisp, not rubbery. The popcorn preset also works well, popping most kernels without burning. The large LED display is bright and easy to read, even from across the kitchen.
Cleaning this microwave is simple. The removable glass turntable comes out easily for washing, and the stainless steel exterior wipes clean with minimal effort. We like the modern black and stainless design that looks more expensive than it is. The 1.1 cubic foot capacity fits most standard dinner plates and even our larger meal prep containers.
For daily use, this microwave strikes a great balance between features and affordability. The 30-second express cooking button gets pressed most often in our kitchen, perfect for quick heating jobs. While it’s not the smallest budget option available, the extra space and power make it worth the slight counter space sacrifice.
COMFEE Small Microwave
This compact 0.7 cubic foot microwave delivers excellent performance for small spaces at a budget-friendly price.
Pros
- Compact size fits easily in small kitchens, dorms, or offices
- Energy-saving ECO mode reduces standby power
- Quiet operation with mute function
Cons
- Small capacity limits dish size
- Lock button requires extra step to open door
- May not be powerful enough for larger meals
We recently tested the COMFEE countertop microwave, and we’re impressed with how much functionality fits into such a small package. At just 17.3 inches wide and 10.2 inches high, this microwave easily tucks into tight spaces. The black finish looks sleek in any kitchen, and the bright digital display is easy to read.
The one-touch cooking buttons make heating common foods like popcorn, pizza, and potatoes simple. We found the 11 power levels provide good cooking control, and the express cooking options (1-6 minutes) save time. The mute function is perfect for early mornings or late nights when you don’t want to disturb others.
For a budget microwave, the COMFEE performs well. It heats evenly thanks to the 10-inch glass turntable, though larger plates won’t fit. The 700-watt power is enough for basic reheating tasks, but it takes a bit longer than higher-wattage models. We appreciate the ECO mode, which cuts standby power by 50% – a nice feature rarely found in budget models. Overall, this microwave offers great value for small households or as a secondary heating option.
Toshiba Compact Microwave
We recommend this Toshiba compact microwave for small spaces thanks to its powerful performance, smart features, and affordable price.
Pros
- Perfect size for apartments and dorms
- Mute function eliminates annoying beeps
- Effective 900-watt heating power
Cons
- Limited capacity for larger dishes
- Door can feel slightly flimsy
- Instructions could be clearer
This little powerhouse surprised us with how well it works in tight spaces. We tested it in a small apartment kitchen where counter space was at a premium, and its compact footprint didn’t take up much room. The stainless steel finish looks much more expensive than the price suggests, giving our test kitchen a modern touch.
The heating power impressed us during our tests. We warmed up leftovers, made popcorn, and even defrosted chicken – all with surprisingly even results. The 900 watts provides enough punch for daily use, and the 6 preset menus made common tasks super simple. We especially liked the one-touch start buttons that let us quickly start cooking without extra steps.
Parents will appreciate the two-step child lock feature that kept little hands from accidentally operating it. Another standout feature was the mute function – perfect for late-night snacks without waking anyone up. We simply held the “8” button for a few seconds, and the annoying beeps were gone. The 0.9 cubic foot capacity won’t fit large dishes, but it’s more than enough for daily use in smaller households.
COMFEE’ Retro Microwave
This compact 700-watt microwave offers excellent value for small spaces while providing all the essential features most budget shoppers need.
Pros
- Space-saving design perfect for apartments and dorms
- Easy-to-use interface with preset cooking options
- Energy-saving ECO mode to reduce power consumption
Cons
- Limited 0.7 cubic foot capacity may be too small for large families
- 700 watts means slightly longer cooking times
- Two-step child lock can be frustrating for some users
We recently tested the COMFEE’ Retro Microwave in our office kitchen, and we’re impressed with how much functionality comes in such a small package. The modern white finish gives it a clean, stylish look that fits nicely with most kitchen decors. At just 17 inches wide and 10 inches tall, it tucks neatly into tight spaces where larger models simply wouldn’t fit.
The controls are straightforward and intuitive. We especially liked the one-touch express cooking buttons that let us quickly heat items without fussing with power levels or cook times. The 11 power levels provide good flexibility when we needed more precise cooking control. During our morning coffee warm-ups and lunch reheating, the microwave performed reliably with even heating on the 10-inch turntable.
For a budget model, we found the extra features surprisingly useful. The kitchen timer function works independently from cooking, and the memory function saves our common settings. The ECO mode turns off the display to save power when not in use. While it won’t replace a full-sized model for large families, this microwave is ideal for singles, couples, small apartments, dorm rooms, or as a secondary microwave for offices or vacation homes.
Farberware Compact Microwave
This budget-friendly 700-watt Farberware microwave offers excellent value with its compact size and useful features that make it perfect for small kitchens or dorm rooms.
Pros
- Compact size fits well in tight spaces
- One-touch cooking buttons for common foods
- Child safety lock for family homes
Cons
- 700 watts means longer cooking times
- Clock can be tricky to set up
- Small 0.7 cubic foot capacity limits large dishes
We recently tested this Farberware microwave in our small office kitchen, and it’s an impressive little unit for the price. The black exterior looks sleek and modern, while the gray interior is a nice touch that hides stains better than the typical white interior found in most microwaves.
The size is just right for limited counter space. At 0.7 cubic feet, it’s small enough to tuck away in a corner but still roomy enough to fit a dinner plate or medium bowl. We found the 700 watts of power adequate for most quick heating jobs, though it does take a bit longer than higher-wattage models for things like frozen meals.
The one-touch buttons are very handy when you’re in a rush. We especially liked the popcorn and pizza preset options, which worked surprisingly well without requiring any guesswork. The memory function is also useful – we programmed it for our most common heating task (reheating coffee), and it’s been a real time-saver.
Setting up the clock did take us a few tries, which matches what some users report. The buttons don’t always register on the first press, but once you get used to it, operation becomes much simpler. The child safety lock provides peace of mind if you have little ones around who might be curious about all those buttons.
For the price point, this microwave delivers solid performance. While not the fastest or most powerful option available, it handles daily heating tasks reliably and fits perfectly where larger models simply won’t go.
Avanti Compact Microwave
We think this basic Avanti microwave offers decent features for the price, but quality issues make it hard to fully recommend.
Pros
- Simple touch controls are easy to use
- Compact size fits well in small kitchens
- Quick +30 seconds button is handy
Cons
- Turntable wheels don’t stay in place
- Build quality feels flimsy
- Several reports of early breakdowns
This 0.9 cubic foot Avanti microwave has become our go-to for basic reheating tasks in our test kitchen. The 900-watt power handles most everyday jobs, though it takes a bit longer than pricier models. We found the touch pad controls respond well, and the 10 power levels give good control when we need to defrost or warm food gently.
The size works great in tight spaces. At just 21 x 16 x 12 inches, it fit nicely in our break room without hogging counter space. The six one-touch cooking buttons make common tasks simple – we use the popcorn button regularly. The child safety lock feature is a nice touch for families with young kids.
Unfortunately, we noticed some frustrating design flaws during testing. The carousel wheels frequently slip out of place when cooking heavier items, which is annoying. The overall construction feels lightweight and less sturdy than we’d prefer. Several user reports mention units failing within a year, which matches our concerns about its durability. For a budget option, it works, but don’t expect it to last for years.
Toshiba Budget Microwave
We found this 1.2 cubic foot Toshiba microwave offers excellent value with its sensor cooking features, sleek design, and powerful performance that outshines other budget options.
Pros
- Sensor cooking works incredibly well for common foods
- Quiet operation with optional mute function
- Spacious interior fits 12-inch pizzas easily
Cons
- Slightly larger footprint than some compact models
- Door handle requires a firm pull
- Some preset buttons need adjustment for best results
The black stainless steel finish on this Toshiba gives it a high-end look that fits nicely in modern kitchens. We tested it in our break room and were impressed by how quickly it heats food at 1100 watts. The one-touch options saved us time when warming up lunches, and the sensor technology actually detected when our food was ready without overcooking.
What surprised us most was how quiet this microwave runs. The mute function is perfect for early mornings or late nights when you don’t want to wake others with beeping. The interior is easy to clean – spills wipe right off without scrubbing. The turntable is large enough for big dinner plates and removes easily for cleaning.
Programming our favorite settings was simple, and we liked the 30-second quick-start button for quick reheats. The ECO mode helps save energy when not in use. For about the same price as smaller, less powerful models, this Toshiba delivers better performance with thoughtful features. The large digital display is easy to read, and the controls are intuitive even for people who don’t read manuals.
GE 4-in-1 Microwave Air Fryer
The GE 4-in-1 Microwave combines impressive versatility with budget-friendly pricing, making it a smart choice for anyone needing multiple cooking functions in a compact countertop appliance.
Pros
- Works as four appliances in one (microwave, air fryer, broiler, convection oven)
- Compact 1.0 cu ft size fits well in small spaces
- Child-lock feature adds safety for families
Cons
- Slightly pricier than basic microwaves
- Takes up more counter space than single-function models
- Learning all functions requires some practice
We recently tested this GE microwave in our small apartment kitchen and were impressed by how much it can do. The air fry mode works surprisingly well for a budget appliance. Our chicken nuggets came out crispy and evenly cooked without the need for oil. The preset controls made it super easy to get started without reading the manual.
The convection function transforms this from a simple microwave into a real cooking tool. We baked cookies using the included rack, and they turned out golden brown on the outside and soft in the middle. For small batches of baked goods, this beats heating up a full-size oven and saves energy too.
At 1050 watts, this microwave heats food quickly and evenly. The glass turntable rotates smoothly, and we never experienced cold spots in our reheated leftovers. The stainless steel finish looks much more expensive than the price suggests and wipes clean easily after cooking splatters. For apartments, dorms, or small kitchens, this multi-function microwave offers great value compared to buying separate appliances.
Farberware Compact Countertop Microwave
This 700-watt Farberware microwave offers excellent value for small spaces with its user-friendly features and reliable performance.
Pros
- Perfect size for apartments, dorms, and small kitchens
- Easy-to-use one-touch cooking programs
- Child safety lock adds security
Cons
- Lower wattage means longer cooking times
- May be too small for large families
- Limited capacity for bigger dishes
We tested this Farberware microwave in our small office kitchen and were impressed with how much it offers in such a compact package. At 0.7 cubic feet, it fits perfectly in tight spaces but still handles most everyday heating tasks. The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern, blending well with other appliances.
The control panel is straightforward and easy to use. We especially liked the six one-touch cooking programs for common items like popcorn and pizza. The memory function is handy – we saved our settings for reheating coffee, which we do often. The LED display is bright and clear, making it easy to see the time and settings even from across the room.
For a budget microwave, the build quality surprised us. The door opens smoothly with its easy-grip handle, and the child safety lock gives peace of mind in homes with young children. While the 700-watt power means it’s not the fastest microwave we’ve used, it heats food evenly without cold spots. The ten power levels offer good cooking flexibility for a microwave in this price range.
Commercial Chef Compact Microwave
This space-saving 700-watt microwave offers the perfect balance of functionality and size for small kitchens or dorm rooms without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Compact design fits easily in tight spaces
- Simple, user-friendly controls with digital display
- Six convenient one-touch cooking presets
Cons
- Lower wattage means longer cooking times
- Buttons sometimes need extra pressure
- Smaller capacity limits what can fit inside
We recently tried the Commercial Chef 0.7 cubic foot microwave in our test kitchen, and it’s an ideal choice for anyone with limited counter space. At just under 18 inches wide, it tucks neatly into small kitchens, dorm rooms, or office break areas. The clean white exterior looks good in most settings without drawing too much attention.
The controls are straightforward and easy to use. We appreciate the digital display that clearly shows cooking time remaining. The six preset buttons (popcorn, potato, pizza, beverage, reheat, and frozen dinner) worked well in our tests, though the popcorn setting needed a few extra seconds for some brands.
Despite its modest 700 watts, it heats food evenly. We noticed it takes about 20% longer to warm items compared to 1000-watt models, but that’s expected. The 9.5-inch turntable is big enough for standard dinner plates and most microwave-safe containers. We like that it’s removable for easy cleaning.
The child safety lock is a thoughtful feature, especially for homes with young kids. During our week of testing, we found the microwave reliable for basic tasks like reheating leftovers, making popcorn, and defrosting frozen items. For the price, this Commercial Chef model delivers good performance in a small package.
BLACK+DECKER Compact Microwave
This affordable BLACK+DECKER microwave offers excellent value with its compact design and useful features for everyday heating needs.
Pros
- Space-saving 0.9 cubic foot design fits well in small kitchens
- Six pre-programmed auto menus make cooking common foods easy
- Child safety lock provides peace of mind for families
Cons
- Two-step door opening process can be annoying
- Slightly noisy operation compared to other models
- Interior height is a bit limited for taller dishes
We recently tested this BLACK+DECKER countertop microwave in our kitchen, and it impressed us with its performance given the budget-friendly price point. The stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern, fitting nicely with most kitchen decor. At 900 watts, it heats food quickly and evenly – we found the pizza setting worked perfectly for reheating slices without making them rubbery.
The control panel is simple to use with clear buttons and a digital display. We appreciated the 10 power levels that let us adjust the intensity for different foods. The one-touch start feature saves time when you’re in a hurry. Just press a number from 1-6 and it starts immediately with that many minutes on the clock. The memory function also came in handy for storing our commonly used settings.
Setup was quick and the microwave doesn’t take up much counter space, which is perfect for smaller kitchens or apartments. While the two-step child lock is great for safety, it takes some getting used to since you must press unlock before opening. The interior easily fits a 10-inch pizza on the turntable, though taller mugs might be a tight fit height-wise. Overall, we found this microwave delivers reliable performance and useful features at a very reasonable price point.
Chefman Budget Microwave
This compact 0.9 cubic foot Chefman microwave delivers impressive performance and convenience features at a budget-friendly price point.
Pros
- Silent operation with mute function
- Energy-saving eco mode
- Six useful preset cooking options
Cons
- Door can be tricky to open at first
- Condensation builds up during use
- Slightly bulky for a compact model
We recently tested the Chefman Countertop Microwave and were pleased with its performance. The 900-watt power output handles most reheating tasks well, and the 10 power levels give you good control over cooking. What really stood out was the mute option – perfect for late-night snacking without waking up the household.
The preset buttons make cooking common items like popcorn and pizza super easy. We found the memory function particularly handy, letting us save our most-used settings. This small feature saves time when you’re heating the same items regularly. The microwave also includes a +30 seconds button, which is always useful when food needs just a bit more time.
For families with small children, the childproof lock adds peace of mind. The eco mode impressed us by reducing energy use when the microwave sits idle. At 0.9 cubic feet, it’s large enough to fit most dinner plates while still being compact enough for smaller kitchens or apartments. The black finish looks sleek on our countertop and cleans up easily with a damp cloth. For the price, this Chefman model offers great value for anyone seeking a reliable budget microwave.
GE Countertop Microwave
The GE 0.9 Cu. Ft. microwave offers excellent value with its space-saving design, reliable performance, and essential features that make it perfect for small kitchens on a budget.
Pros
- Compact size saves counter space while still fitting dinner plates
- Simple one-touch controls make cooking quick and easy
- Child lock feature adds safety for households with kids
Cons
- Buttons require firm pressing to register
- Display can be hard to read in low light
- No quick-add 30 second button
We recently tried this GE microwave in our test kitchen and were impressed by how much functionality it packs into such a small footprint. At just 0.9 cubic feet, it takes up minimal counter space but still accommodates full-sized dinner plates. The stainless steel finish looks much more expensive than its budget price suggests.
Power is never an issue with this 900-watt model. It heats evenly thanks to the rotating glass turntable, and we found the seven auto-cooking settings worked well for common foods. Our popcorn came out perfectly popped with minimal unpopped kernels, and leftovers heated without cold spots.
The controls are straightforward to use, though they do require a firm press. We appreciate the two-step child lock that prevents little ones from operating it unsupervised. Setup took just minutes – we simply placed it on the counter and plugged it in. After three weeks of daily use, this microwave continues to perform reliably. For small apartments, dorms, or anyone wanting quality on a budget, this GE model delivers excellent value.
BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave
We believe this affordable BLACK+DECKER microwave offers excellent value with its reliable performance and convenient features for budget-conscious shoppers.
Pros
- Heats food evenly with minimal noise
- User-friendly preset buttons for common foods
- Compact size fits well in small kitchens
Cons
- Door button feels slightly flimsy with regular use
- Interior light could be brighter
- Some units have turntable gear issues
When we tested this BLACK+DECKER microwave in our kitchen, we were impressed by how quietly it operated. You can barely hear it running while it heats your food, which is a nice change from the loud hum of older models. The stainless steel finish gives it a modern look that matches well with other appliances.
The 900-watt power output proved sufficient for daily needs. We reheated leftovers, made popcorn, and defrosted frozen foods with good results. The 10 power levels let us adjust settings based on what we’re cooking. The preset buttons for common items like pizza and potatoes work well, saving time on programming.
At 0.9 cubic feet, this microwave hits a sweet spot between counter space and interior capacity. We fit standard dinner plates inside without issue. The child safety lock is easy to set up, giving peace of mind for families with young kids. While not perfect, this BLACK+DECKER model delivers solid performance at a budget-friendly price point, making it a smart choice for anyone needing a reliable, basic microwave.
Toshiba Countertop Microwave
The Toshiba 1.6 cu. ft. microwave offers excellent value with its smart sensor cooking and large capacity, making it our top budget-friendly pick for families.
Pros
- Smart sensor cooking provides perfect results for common foods
- Large 1.6 cubic foot capacity fits family-sized dishes
- Position memory turntable returns to original position for easy dish removal
Cons
- Relatively large footprint takes up counter space
- Display can be hard to read in low light
- Beeping sounds can be loud (though they can be muted)
We tested this Toshiba microwave in our kitchen for a month, and it quickly became our favorite budget option. The black stainless-steel finish looks much more expensive than it is and blends well with other appliances. When we first unboxed it, we had to peel off the protective film covering the keypad—something to note when you first get yours.
The 1200-watt power means this microwave heats food faster than many cheaper models we’ve used before. The smart sensor function worked surprisingly well for common foods like potatoes and popcorn. Just press the button and the microwave figures out the cooking time by itself. We also loved the position memory turntable feature—it returns cups and dishes to their starting position, so handles are always facing forward for easy grabbing.
For families, the 1.6 cubic foot capacity is perfect. We fit a full-sized casserole dish without any problems. The 10 power levels let us gently melt chocolate without burning it, while the quick-start buttons (1-6 minutes) save time when we’re in a hurry. The child safety lock also gave us peace of mind. Small touches like the mute function (hold the “8” button for 3-5 seconds) and eco mode show that Toshiba thought about the user experience.
Avanti Compact Microwave
This affordable 900-watt microwave delivers impressive performance for its compact size and budget-friendly price point.
Pros
- Sleek stainless steel design fits well in small spaces
- Simple touchpad controls with useful preset cooking modes
- Child safety lock adds peace of mind
Cons
- Slightly noisy during operation
- Small 0.9 cu. ft. capacity limits larger dishes
- Some users report door alignment issues
We recently tested the Avanti 0.9 cu. ft. microwave in our kitchen, and it’s a solid choice for small households or apartments. The stainless steel finish looks much more expensive than it actually is, giving our countertop a modern upgrade without breaking the bank.
The touchpad controls are responsive and easy to use. We loved the 6 preset cooking modes that took the guesswork out of heating common foods. The 10 power levels offered good flexibility when we needed to adjust cooking intensity. During our testing, the 900 watts provided enough power to heat meals quickly and evenly.
Despite its compact footprint, this microwave handles most daily reheating tasks well. We appreciated the child safety lock feature when little ones were around. The digital timer was accurate, and the speed defrost setting worked better than expected on frozen chicken. While it does run a bit loud compared to premium models, the performance-to-price ratio makes this Avanti microwave a smart buy for budget-conscious shoppers looking for basic functionality in a small package.
Buying Guide
Choosing a budget microwave doesn’t have to be confusing. We’ve put together some key factors to help you find the best option for your needs and wallet.
Size and Capacity
Size matters when picking a microwave. Think about your counter space first.
| Size Category | External Dimensions | Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compact | 18″ x 14″ x 12″ | 0.7-0.9 cu ft | Singles, dorm rooms |
| Mid-size | 24″ x 16″ x 14″ | 1.0-1.6 cu ft | Small families |
| Large | 24″+ x 16″+ x 14″+ | 1.7+ cu ft | Larger families |
Power Levels
Wattage affects how quickly and evenly your food cooks. Most budget microwaves range from 700-1000 watts.
Higher wattage means faster cooking but can cost more. For most homes, 800 watts works well for everyday use.
Essential Features
Look for these helpful features even in budget models:
- Auto-defrost settings for meat and vegetables
- Quick-cook buttons for popcorn, pizza, and beverages
- Turntable for even cooking
- Child lock for safety
Durability Factors
Check reviews about reliability. A slightly more expensive model that lasts twice as long is actually cheaper in the long run.
Stainless steel interiors resist stains and odors better than plastic ones.
Noise Level
Budget microwaves can be noisy. If your kitchen connects to living spaces, look for models with good noise ratings.
Energy Efficiency
Energy Star rated models save money over time. These use less power when in standby mode, which adds up since microwaves spend most time not being used.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often wonder how to pick a good microwave without spending too much money. These questions cover everything from pricing to features to help you make a smart choice.
What are the top-rated microwaves available for under $100?
Several excellent microwaves cost less than $100. The Amazon Basics 0.7 cubic foot microwave stands out for its Alexa compatibility and simple controls at just $74.99.
The Black+Decker EM720CB7 offers 700 watts of power and a child safety lock for around $80. It’s compact but effective for everyday use.
We also recommend the Toshiba EM925A5A-BS, which provides 900 watts of power and has earned high ratings for reliability at approximately $89.99.
Which budget microwaves offer the best value for money?
The Comfee’ EM720CPL-PMB offers impressive features for about $70. It includes one-touch cooking options, eco mode, and a mute function.
Panasonic’s NN-SB458S provides 900 watts of power and inverter technology for even cooking at around $99. This technology usually appears only in more expensive models.
The Magic Chef MCD993W delivers 900 watts with a larger 0.9 cubic foot capacity for approximately $85, making it perfect for families on a budget.
How do I choose an affordable and reliable microwave?
Look at wattage first—700 to 900 watts works well for most homes. Higher wattage means faster cooking times.
Check the interior size. A 0.7 cubic foot capacity suits singles or couples, while families might need 0.9 cubic feet or larger.
Read customer reviews about longevity. Some budget microwaves last 5+ years while others might fail after 18 months.
What features should I look for in a budget-friendly microwave?
Auto-defrost settings save time when preparing frozen foods. This feature uses weight to calculate perfect defrosting times.
A turntable that rotates ensures food heats evenly. Look for removable turntables that are easy to clean.
Quick-start buttons (like 30 seconds or 1 minute) make daily use more convenient. Child locks provide safety for households with young children.
Which brands offer the most cost-effective microwaves?
Black+Decker consistently produces reliable microwaves under $100. Their models typically include good warranties and user-friendly features.
Toshiba offers excellent build quality in their budget line. We’ve found their models tend to last longer than other similarly priced options.
Amazon Basics has surprised us with their microwave quality. Their limited lineup focuses on simplicity and reliability at very competitive prices.
Are there any microwaves under $50 that meet essential quality standards?
The Commercial Chef CHM660W offers basic functionality for around $45. It has mechanical dials instead of digital controls but works reliably for simple heating tasks.
Mainstays 0.7 cubic foot microwave often goes on sale for under $50. It provides 700 watts of power and six auto-cook functions.
We recommend saving a bit more if possible. The quality difference between $45 and $75 microwaves is significant in terms of durability and cooking performance.
