Who doesn’t love the convenience of a microwave? It zaps leftovers, defrosts dinner fast, and saves you precious time. But when your old one sputters out, the hunt for a replacement can feel overwhelming, especially when you have a budget. Finding a great microwave for under $100 seems like a treasure hunt—you want power and reliability without emptying your wallet.
The struggle is real! Many budget microwaves look cheap or break down quickly. You worry about getting stuck with a model that barely heats your popcorn or takes forever to cook. Settling for less is frustrating when you need a dependable kitchen workhorse.
Don’t worry; we have done the hard work for you! This guide cuts through the noise. We break down the absolute best microwaves you can snag for under a hundred dollars right now. You will learn exactly what features matter most in this price range and avoid common traps.
Ready to find that perfect, affordable microwave? Keep reading to discover our top picks and make your next kitchen purchase a smart one!
Top Microwave Under $100 Recommendations
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- Microwave output power 900 watts, input power 1400 watts. External dimensions 18.7x 14.7x 10.7 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 12.1 x 10.9 x 7.6 inches (WxDxH); includes 10.6-inch glass turntable.
- 6 Preset Menus: This compact microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potato and more.
- 11 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
- Compact Design: 700W output power and 1020W input power, external dimensions (WDH): 17.1 x 12.2 x 9.5 inches, internal dimensions (WDH): 11.8 x 11.7 x 8.1 inch, 9.6-inch glass turntable
- ChefDefrost Feature: The sophisticated ChefDefrost offers up to 40% faster defrosting compared to traditional methods while preserving the original texture and flavor of foods.
- 6 Auto Menus: Countertop microwave oven featuring 6 auto menu options for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potato and more.
- 11 Unique Power Levels: Customize your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility. This essential appliance is perfect for everything from warming up beverages to cooking entrees, side dishes, snacks, and much more.
- Easy to Use: The control panel includes One Touch Start with buttons to operate 1 to 6 minutes of full-power cooking, Child Lock Function, ECO Mode, Clock, and a Kitchen Timer.
- 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”
- 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.
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- Microwave output power 900 watts, input power 1400 watts. External dimensions 18.7x 14.7x 10.7 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 12.1 x 10.9 x 7.6 inches (WxDxH); includes 10.6-inch glass turntable.
- 6 Preset Menus: This compact microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potato and more.
- 11 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
The Savvy Shopper’s Guide to Microwaves Under $100
Finding a great microwave without breaking the bank is totally possible! These compact powerhouses are essential for quick meals, reheating leftovers, and popping popcorn. This guide helps you choose the best model that fits your budget and needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a budget-friendly microwave (under $100), focus on the core functions that matter most.
- **Wattage (Power):** This is how fast your food heats up. Most good countertop microwaves in this price range offer between 700 and 1000 watts. Aim for 900 watts or higher for faster cooking times. Lower wattage (700W) might take longer to heat soup.
- **Capacity (Size):** Microwaves are measured in cubic feet. A smaller apartment or dorm room needs a compact size (0.7 to 0.9 cubic feet). If you heat up larger dinner plates, look for 1.1 to 1.2 cubic feet.
- **Control Type:** You will usually find two types: **Dial/Knob Controls** (very simple, durable, great for basic use) or **Digital Pads** (offers precise time settings and preset buttons). Digital controls often look sleeker.
- **Turntable:** Almost all models include a glass turntable. Make sure it’s removable for easy cleaning.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials used inside and outside affect how long the microwave lasts and how easy it is to keep clean.
The exterior casing is usually painted metal or plastic. Metal offers better durability against bumps. Inside, you want a smooth interior coating. Enamel or painted interiors are common in this price bracket. These surfaces resist grease buildup and wipe down easily. Avoid models with textured or complex interior shapes, as dirt gets stuck in those spots.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality in budget microwaves often comes down to thoughtful design choices.
Features That Improve Quality:
- **One-Touch Start:** Buttons that start cooking immediately for 30 seconds or 1 minute save time and reduce button wear.
- **Child Lock:** A safety feature that locks the keypad. This is very useful if you have small children.
- **Mute Function:** Some newer budget models let you silence the loud beeping when cooking finishes.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- **Flimsy Door Latch:** If the door feels wobbly or requires a hard push to close, the latch mechanism might fail sooner. Test the door mechanism if possible.
- **Thin Power Cord:** A very thin, light cord might not handle the power draw well over time.
- **Poorly Calibrated Timers:** If the dial skips or the digital timer seems inaccurate, cooking results will be inconsistent.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where you will use the microwave most often.
For a college dorm room or a small office break area, prioritize a compact size and simple knob controls. You only need to reheat coffee or make instant noodles. For a busy family kitchen, you need more power (900W+) and larger capacity to handle leftovers for multiple people simultaneously. Digital controls shine here because you can precisely set defrost times.
Remember, even the cheapest microwaves need proper ventilation. Do not place them in tight cabinets without space around the vents. Good airflow keeps the internal components cool and extends the life of your purchase.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Microwaves Under $100
Q: Can I find a microwave with 1000 watts for under $100?
A: Yes, you absolutely can. Many brands offer 1000-watt models in the 0.9 to 1.1 cubic foot range when they are on sale or if you choose a basic digital model.
Q: Are microwaves under $100 durable?
A: They are generally durable for basic use. Their lifespan might be slightly shorter than high-end models, but if you use them as intended (reheating, simple cooking), they often last 3 to 5 years.
Q: What is the smallest size microwave I can buy?
A: The smallest practical size you will find is around 0.5 cubic feet. These are often called “personal” microwaves and are great for very small spaces, but they only fit small bowls.
Q: Do these budget models have preset cooking options?
A: Many digital models include basic presets like Popcorn, Potato, or Beverage. Knob-controlled models usually skip these features entirely.
Q: Is it hard to clean an inexpensive microwave?
A: No. Cleaning difficulty depends more on the interior finish than the price. Look for smooth, non-textured interiors for the easiest wiping experience.
Q: Should I worry about the color of the microwave?
A: No. Color (like black, white, or stainless look) does not affect performance or quality. It is purely an aesthetic choice for matching your kitchen.
Q: What does “Convection” mean, and does it come under $100?
A: Convection means the microwave can also bake and roast using a heating element, like a small oven. Microwaves with convection technology are almost always priced over $100.
Q: Why do some budget models have loud beeping?
A: Loud beeping is common because manufacturers save money by using simpler, louder sound chips instead of more complex, programmable ones found in premium units.
Q: How long should I expect a standard reheat cycle to take in a 900W unit?
A: A standard mug of coffee or a single plate of leftovers usually takes between 1 minute 30 seconds and 2 minutes 30 seconds in a 900-watt microwave.
Q: Is buying a refurbished model a good idea for this price range?
A: Refurbished units can offer great value, but check the warranty closely. If you buy new, you get the full manufacturer’s warranty, which is safer for electronics.