Does the thought of buying a new microwave leave you feeling overwhelmed? You see so many models, each with different features and prices. It is tough to know which one fits your kitchen and your budget best. Many people want a reliable microwave without spending too much money, but finding that sweet spot can feel like a treasure hunt.
Choosing a microwave involves more than just picking the cheapest tag. You need to think about size, power, and if it can handle your daily reheating tasks. Settling for the absolute lowest price might mean getting a machine that breaks down fast or doesn’t heat food evenly. That is frustrating!
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will show you how to spot the best value microwaves available right now. You will learn what features matter most, even on a tight budget. By the end, you will feel confident picking a cheap microwave that actually works great for you.
Top And Cheapest Microwave Recommendations
- 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
- Bright digital display, easy-to-read control panel, interior light and 10 inch glass turntable
- One year limited warranty. Express cooking options & silent mode
- 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 clear viewing of your meals for you to keep an eye on them to make sure it cooks perfectly.
- DIFFERENT SETTINGS: Intuitive cooking settings remove the complexity from daily cooking. There are six different auto cooking settings to choose from (popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen dinner, reheat, beverage).
- 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
- 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave, Retro Design, 700 Watts, Black
- Speed/Weight Defrost
- Catchy Retro Look
- Retro Themed Over Sized Knob
- Child Safety Lock
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave, Retro Design, 700 Watts, Black
- Speed/Weight Defrost
- Catchy Retro Look
- Retro Themed Over Sized Knob
- Child Safety Lock
- Precise cooking with 10 power levels: With 10 different power levels to choose from, you can fine-tune your cooking to achieve perfect results every time. Whether you need to gently cook delicate foods or quickly heat up leftovers, you'll find the right power level for your needs.
- Convenient defrost options: This microwave offers both time and weight defrost options, so you can quickly and easily thaw frozen foods without worrying about overcooking or undercooking them. Simply input the weight or time and the microwave will automatically defrost your food to perfection.
- Fast cooking with express cooking: The express cooking function allows you to quickly cook your favorite foods without having to adjust the power level or cooking time. Simply press the express button and the microwave will automatically cook your food for a predetermined amount of time.
- Large and easy-to-read digital timer: The 99-minute, 99-second digital timer is large and easy to read, making it simple to monitor your cooking progress. Whether you're cooking a big meal or just heating up a quick snack, you'll always be able to keep track of the time.
- Memory and kitchen timer function: The memory function allows you to store your favorite cooking settings for easy access later on. The kitchen timer function is also a handy feature that lets you set a timer for other kitchen tasks, such as boiling eggs or baking cookies.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for the Absolute Cheapest Microwave
Finding a microwave that heats your food without emptying your wallet is totally possible. We know you want a great deal. This guide helps you pick the best budget-friendly microwave. We focus on what truly matters when money is tight.
Key Features to Look For in Budget Microwaves
Even the cheapest microwaves need a few good features. These make your daily heating tasks easy.
1. Power Level Settings
- Look for at least 5 power settings. This lets you gently thaw ice cream or blast-heat leftovers.
2. Timer and Controls
- Simple dial controls are often best for cheap models. Digital keypads break more easily. A simple dial lasts longer.
- Make sure the timer is easy to read.
3. Size Matters (Capacity)
- Most cheap microwaves are small (around 0.7 to 1.1 cubic feet). This is perfect for dorm rooms or small apartments. Measure your space first!
4. Turntable
- A glass turntable is essential. It spins your food so it heats evenly. Don’t buy a model without one.
Important Materials and Construction
The materials used directly affect how long your cheap microwave lasts.
Exterior Casing
- Most budget microwaves use painted metal for the outside. This is fine. Check for dents or scratches when you buy it.
Interior Lining
- The inside usually has an easy-to-clean coating. Ceramic enamel or painted interiors are common. Avoid rough plastic interiors; they stain quickly.
Door Strength
- The door must close securely. Test the latch mechanism. A weak latch means heat might leak out, and it won’t run correctly.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
When you save money, some quality features get cut. Know what you are sacrificing.
What Reduces Quality (Expect Less Of This):
- Inverter Technology: Cheap microwaves use standard magnetrons. They heat in bursts, which can sometimes cook unevenly.
- Preset Buttons: Skip buttons for “Popcorn” or “Defrost.” These rarely work perfectly on the cheapest models.
What Improves Quality (Even on a Budget):
- Wattage (Power): Try to find at least 700 watts. Lower wattage means your food takes much longer to heat up.
- Warranty Length: A slightly longer warranty (even 90 days vs. 30 days) shows the manufacturer trusts the product a little more.
User Experience and Use Cases
A cheap microwave must perform its main job well: heating food quickly and safely.
Daily Use Cases
- Reheating Coffee/Soup: Simple controls make this fast. You set the dial and walk away.
- Defrosting Small Items: Use the lowest power setting. Be patient; it will take longer than expensive models.
- Dorm Rooms/Offices: Small footprints are great here. They fit easily on a desk or shelf.
Noise Level
Be warned: budget microwaves often sound louder when running and when the timer dings. This is a common trade-off for lower prices.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Budget Microwaves
Q: How long should a very cheap microwave last?
A: A basic, inexpensive model usually lasts between three and five years. Treat it gently, and it might last longer.
Q: Can I cook full meals in a small, cheap microwave?
A: You can heat up leftovers or single-serving meals easily. Cooking large casseroles might require stirring halfway through because the small space heats unevenly.
Q: What is the absolute minimum wattage I should accept?
A: We suggest aiming for 700 watts. Below that, heating even a cup of water takes too long.
Q: Are cheap microwaves safe?
A: Yes, if they meet basic safety standards (like UL certification). The main difference is the build quality, not the safety of the radiation.
Q: Why are the controls usually dials instead of buttons on the cheapest models?
A: Dials use simpler, more durable mechanical switches. Digital keypads are more expensive to manufacture and have more points of failure.
Q: Do I need to worry about energy use?
A: Microwaves do not use much energy overall, even cheap ones. They only run for short bursts of time.
Q: What should I do if the turntable doesn’t spin?
A: First, check if the glass plate is seated correctly on the plastic roller ring. If it still does not spin, the motor underneath might be broken, which often means it is time to replace the unit.
Q: Where is the best place to buy the “cheapest” microwave?
A: Look at discount stores, warehouse clubs, or online retailers offering open-box deals on smaller models.
Q: Can I use metal in a cheap microwave?
A: Never put metal inside any microwave, cheap or expensive. It causes sparks and damages the machine.
Q: Is it worth paying a little more for a slightly better brand?
A: Sometimes, yes. A slightly higher price might buy you better internal components that extend the life from three years to five or six years. Weigh the upfront cost versus the replacement frequency.