Who hasn’t faced the kitchen dilemma of needing a quick meal but lacking the time or energy to cook? For many of us, the humble microwave is the trusty hero of these moments. But when your old one finally gives up the ghost, or you’re setting up a new kitchen on a budget, the thought of buying a new microwave can bring on a wave of confusion. You want something that heats your food evenly and reliably, but the price tags can sometimes make you wince.
Navigating the world of inexpensive microwaves can feel like a treasure hunt with a blurry map. You see so many choices, and it’s tough to know which ones are actually good deals and which ones will leave you with cold spots in your leftovers. This is where we come in. We’re here to cut through the noise and help you find a microwave that’s both budget-friendly and does a fantastic job.
By the end of this post, you’ll have a clearer understanding of what makes a good cheap microwave, what features are worth looking for, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Get ready to discover how to heat up your next meal without heating up your credit card!
Our Top 5 Inexpensive Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Inexpensive Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 9.3/10
Meet the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven. This compact, 0.7 cubic foot microwave is a great addition to any kitchen. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks good on any countertop. It’s easy to use and makes heating up food a breeze. The 700-watt power cooks your food quickly. Plus, it has a handy child safety lock to keep little hands out.
What We Like:
- It has pre-programmed buttons for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, and potatoes.
- The 30-second express cooking button is super fast.
- The large LED display is easy to read.
- It comes with a removable glass turntable that is 10 inches wide.
- The push-button door makes it simple to open.
- It has a child safety lock for peace of mind.
- It includes a kitchen timer and a clock.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 700-watt cooking power might be a bit slow for some users compared to higher wattage microwaves.
- While the 0.7 cu.ft. size is good for small spaces, it might be too small for larger dishes or families.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for simple heating tasks. It offers convenience and safety features that many households will appreciate.
2. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 8.6/10
Meet the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven, your new kitchen helper. This 0.7 cubic foot, 700-watt microwave is designed for busy lives. It offers 10 power levels and 6 handy cooking presets to make reheating and cooking a breeze. Its sleek black finish and compact size fit perfectly on any countertop.
What We Like:
- Extra-Quick Cooking: Six popular presets (popcorn, pizza, drinks, veggies, potatoes, leftovers) make cooking simple. You can also just press number keys for instant minutes.
- Low to High Power: 700 watts of power with 10 adjustable levels, from melting butter to fast cooking.
- Digital Controls: Easy to set time and power. The +30 seconds button adds extra cooking time quickly.
- Memory Function: Save your favorite cooking settings for one-touch access.
- Safety First: A child safety lock on the handle prevents accidental openings. You can also lock the control panel.
- Mute Option: Turn off the annoying beeps with the Audio Button, perfect for quiet moments or when kids are sleeping.
- Modern Design: Its compact, sleek black design looks great in any kitchen. Eco Mode helps save power and dims the display.
- Easy to Clean: The durable exterior wipes clean easily. The glass turntable is dishwasher safe.
- Trusted Quality: cETL approved with advanced safety features and a 1-year Chefman warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic foot capacity might be small for very large dishes or multiple servings at once.
- While it has 10 power levels, some users might desire even finer control or specific presets for more complex cooking.
This Chefman microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly appliance for everyday cooking tasks. Its thoughtful features and safety options make it a great addition to any kitchen.
3. COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 9.2/10
The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a handy appliance for your kitchen. It’s a black, 0.7 cubic foot microwave that packs 700 watts of power. This microwave makes cooking and reheating food quick and easy with its simple controls and helpful features. Plus, it has a cool ECO Mode to save energy.
What We Like:
- You can turn off the annoying beeping sounds with the mute function.
- It has easy one-touch buttons for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and frozen veggies.
- The express cooking function lets you cook for 1-6 minutes or add 30 seconds with just one touch.
- There are two defrost settings, one by weight and one by time.
- The ECO Mode saves energy by reducing standby power.
- The bright digital display and easy-to-read control panel make it simple to use.
- It comes with a 10-inch glass turntable for even cooking.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands safe.
- The interior light lets you see your food as it cooks.
- It includes a kitchen timer and a clock.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic foot size might be a bit small for larger dishes or families.
- While the one-touch buttons are great, some users might prefer more customizable cooking options.
This COMFEE’ microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a straightforward and efficient way to heat up meals. Its user-friendly design and energy-saving features make it a practical addition to any kitchen.
4. COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 9.3/10
The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven in Pearl White is a great addition to any kitchen. It’s compact at 0.7 cubic feet and packs 700 watts of power, making it ideal for small spaces and quick meals. This microwave offers smart features that make cooking easier and more convenient for everyone.
What We Like:
- The two-step child lock feature adds extra safety, especially for families with young children.
- You can finally enjoy a quiet kitchen with the mute function, which turns off all beeps with a simple 3-second press.
- One-touch express cooking buttons let you heat food for 1-6 minutes or add 30 seconds instantly.
- Defrosting is a breeze with options for both weight and time.
- Auto-cook functions for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and more take the guesswork out of common foods.
- The ECO mode saves energy by reducing standby power by 50%.
- It comes with everything you need: the microwave oven and a clear instruction manual.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic foot capacity might be a bit small for larger dishes or family-sized meals.
- At 700 watts, it’s not the most powerful microwave, so some cooking times might be a little longer.
Overall, the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM microwave is a user-friendly and energy-efficient choice for simple heating and cooking needs.
5. Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power
Rating: 9.1/10
The Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven is a handy kitchen appliance that makes cooking quick and easy. Its 700 watts of power can heat up your food fast. This microwave comes with helpful features like auto cook settings and a defrost option, so you can prepare meals with just a few button presses. Its compact size makes it a great fit for any kitchen counter, and it’s designed for simple cleaning.
What We Like:
- It’s powerful and cooks food quickly with 700 watts.
- It has special settings for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- The defrost function works by weight or time, making it easy to thaw frozen items.
- Its small size (0.7 cu ft) is perfect for small kitchens or offices.
- The interior and exterior are easy to wipe clean.
- It has a clear LED display that shows the time and a kitchen timer.
- A child safety lock provides extra peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might want a larger capacity for bigger meals.
- The 700-watt power might be a little slower for very large items compared to higher wattage microwaves.
This Farberware microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly appliance for everyday cooking tasks. It offers great convenience for busy households or small spaces.
Your Guide to Finding a Great Inexpensive Microwave
Looking for a microwave that won’t break the bank? You’ve come to the right place! Finding an affordable microwave doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice usefulness. This guide will help you choose a microwave that fits your budget and your kitchen needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for an inexpensive microwave, focus on the features that matter most for everyday use.
- Wattage: This tells you how powerful your microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. For most basic needs like reheating leftovers or making popcorn, 700-900 watts is usually enough. If you plan to cook more often, aim for 1000 watts or higher.
- Capacity: This is how much food the microwave can hold. It’s usually measured in cubic feet. A smaller capacity (around 0.7-0.9 cubic feet) is good for single people or small kitchens. A medium capacity (1.0-1.5 cubic feet) works well for families or if you heat larger dishes.
- Turntable: Most microwaves have a glass plate that spins. This helps food cook more evenly. Make sure the turntable is easy to remove and clean.
- Preset Cooking Options: Many microwaves come with buttons for common tasks like “Popcorn,” “Pizza,” or “Defrost.” These can be handy for quick meals.
- Digital Display and Controls: A clear digital display makes it easy to see the cooking time and settings. Simple buttons are also a plus.
Important Materials
The materials used in a microwave can affect its durability and how easy it is to clean.
- Exterior: Most microwave exteriors are made of durable plastic or painted metal. Both are fine for everyday use. Metal exteriors can sometimes feel a bit more sturdy.
- Interior: The inside of the microwave is usually made of painted metal or stainless steel. Painted interiors are common and work well. Stainless steel interiors are often easier to wipe clean and can look more modern, but they might cost a bit more.
- Door: The door usually has a glass window so you can see your food. The handle should feel solid and comfortable to use.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Even in inexpensive models, some things make a microwave better or worse.
- Build Quality: Look for a microwave that feels solid. The door should open and close smoothly. Buttons should press without feeling loose. A well-built microwave will last longer.
- Ease of Cleaning: A smooth interior surface without too many nooks and crannies makes cleaning much easier. Removable turntables are also a big help.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves can be quite noisy when running. If you’re sensitive to noise, check reviews to see if a particular model is described as quiet.
- Brand Reputation: While you’re looking for an inexpensive option, sticking with known brands can sometimes mean better quality control and customer support.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use your microwave will guide your choice.
- Reheating Leftovers: For simply warming up food, a basic microwave with a good wattage and turntable is all you need.
- Cooking Quick Meals: If you often make quick meals like frozen dinners or instant noodles, preset options can be very convenient.
- Defrosting: A reliable defrost function is important if you frequently take food out of the freezer.
- Small Kitchens: Compact microwaves are perfect for small spaces like dorm rooms, studio apartments, or RVs.
- Families: If you have a family, you’ll want a microwave with a larger capacity to fit bigger dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important feature in an inexpensive microwave?
A: The most important feature is usually its wattage and capacity. These determine how well and how much food it can heat.
Q: Do I need a microwave with a lot of watts if I’m on a budget?
A: Not necessarily. For basic tasks like reheating, 700-900 watts is often enough. Higher wattage cooks faster, but it’s not always essential for budget buys.
Q: How big should my microwave be?
A: It depends on your needs. Smaller ones are good for one person, while larger ones work for families. Think about how much space you have and how much food you usually heat.
Q: What does “turntable” mean on a microwave?
A: A turntable is a spinning plate inside the microwave. It helps your food cook evenly by rotating it as it heats.
Q: Are cheap microwaves as good as expensive ones?
A: They can be for basic tasks. Inexpensive microwaves might have fewer fancy features but can still heat food well. Quality can vary, so reading reviews helps.
Q: What are “preset cooking options”?
A: These are buttons that are already set for common foods, like popcorn or pizza. You just press the button, and the microwave cooks it for the right amount of time.
Q: How do I clean an inexpensive microwave?
A: Most can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. Removable turntables make cleaning easier.
Q: Can I cook full meals in a budget microwave?
A: You can cook many simple meals. However, for complex recipes or large dishes, a more powerful or larger microwave might be better.
Q: Where can I find good deals on inexpensive microwaves?
A: Check major retail stores, online marketplaces, and look for sales or clearance items. Reading product reviews is also a smart step.
Q: What if the microwave I buy is too noisy?
A: If noise is a concern, check product reviews before buying. Some models are known to be quieter than others.
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.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!