Ever feel like your kitchen is missing that one magical appliance that makes life easier? For many of us, that appliance is a microwave. But when you’re looking for a microwave that’s easy on your wallet, the choices can feel overwhelming. You want something that heats your food fast, fits your space, and doesn’t cost a fortune. It’s tough to know which “cheap” microwave will actually do a good job and last.
Finding a great, affordable microwave shouldn’t be a chore. That’s why we’re here to help! We’ve done the digging so you don’t have to. By the time you finish reading, you’ll know what to look for, what features are worth your money, and how to spot a real bargain. Get ready to discover the best cheap microwaves that will make your kitchen life a breeze without emptying your wallet.
Our Top 5 And Cheap Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 And Cheap Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 8.9/10
Meet the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven, your new kitchen helper! This compact black microwave packs a punch with 700 watts of power and lots of smart features. It’s designed to make your cooking and reheating easy and fast. Whether you’re popping popcorn or warming up leftovers, this microwave gets the job done.
What We Like:
- It cooks really fast! You can pick from six easy cooking presets like popcorn, pizza, or veggies.
- You have lots of control with 10 different power levels, from melting butter gently to cooking food quickly.
- The digital controls are simple to use. You can set the time and power level easily, and the +30 seconds button is handy for extra cooking time.
- You can save your favorite cooking settings with the memory function for quick one-touch cooking.
- Safety is a priority with a child safety lock and a control panel lock mode.
- You can turn off the beeping sounds with the mute button, which is great for quiet mornings or late nights.
- It looks good on your counter with its sleek black design and fits well with other kitchen appliances.
- Cleaning is a breeze! The exterior wipes clean easily, and the glass turntable is dishwasher safe.
- Chefman stands behind this microwave with cETL approval and a 1-year warranty, so you know it’s built to last.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic feet size might be a bit small for very large dishes or multiple items.
- While it has many presets, some users might wish for a few more specialized options.
This Chefman microwave is a fantastic choice for small kitchens or anyone needing a reliable, user-friendly appliance. It offers a great mix of power, convenience, and safety features.
2. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 9.2/10
The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a handy kitchen helper that makes cooking and reheating a breeze. Its compact 0.7 cubic feet size fits perfectly on your countertop without taking up too much space. This black microwave is designed for convenience with easy one-touch buttons and a bright digital display that’s simple to read. Plus, it offers a cool sound on/off feature so you can cook in peace!
What We Like:
- Silent Operation: The mute function lets you cook without annoying beeps, perfect for early mornings or late nights.
- Energy Saver: ECO Mode cuts standby power by half, saving you a little on your electricity bill.
- One-Touch Cooking: Easy auto-cook buttons for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and more make meal prep super fast.
- Quick Heating: Express cooking options let you heat food for 1-6 minutes with just one touch, plus a 30-second boost.
- Defrost Options: Two defrost settings (by weight or time) make thawing food simple and effective.
- Safety First: The child safety lock keeps little hands from accidentally starting the microwave.
- Convenient Features: Includes a kitchen timer and a bright interior light to see your food clearly.
- Easy Cleaning: The 10-inch glass turntable is removable and easy to wipe clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- Capacity: The 0.7 cubic feet size might be a bit small for larger families or cooking big meals.
- Warranty: A one-year limited warranty is standard, but some might prefer a longer coverage period.
This COMFEE microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly appliance for everyday kitchen tasks. Its smart features and quiet operation make it a great addition to any home.
3. Countertop Microwave Ovens 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700 Watts Microwave Oven With LED Lighting
Rating: 9.4/10
This Countertop Microwave Oven, with its 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and 700 watts of power, is a fantastic addition for anyone needing a compact and capable cooking solution. Its sleek black design fits nicely on any countertop, making it perfect for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or apartments.
What We Like:
- It heats food quickly with 700 watts of power.
- You can pick from 10 different power levels for just the right cooking.
- It has 6 easy one-touch buttons for things like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- You can defrost food by weight or time, which is super handy.
- The 0.7 cu. ft. size is great for small spaces but still cooks like a bigger microwave.
- The LED display and interior light make it easy to see what’s happening.
- A 9.6-inch glass turntable ensures food cooks evenly.
- The child lock feature keeps little ones safe.
- Cleaning the inside is a breeze.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu. ft. size might be a bit small for very large dishes.
- More advanced cooking presets could be a nice addition.
This microwave is a smart choice for its convenience and compact size. It makes meal prep simple and efficient for busy lifestyles.
4. COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 9.1/10
The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PM countertop microwave oven in Pearl White is a handy appliance for any kitchen. It’s a compact 0.7 cubic feet, making it ideal for smaller spaces. This 700W microwave offers convenient features that make cooking a breeze.
What We Like:
- The two-step child lock feature adds extra safety, giving parents peace of mind.
- You can enjoy quieter cooking with the mute function, which turns off all beeps.
- Easy one-touch express cooking buttons let you cook from 1 to 6 minutes instantly, plus a +30 seconds button.
- Defrosting is simple with options for weight or time.
- The auto-cook functions for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen veggies, beverages, and reheating are very convenient.
- The energy-saving Eco mode reduces standby power by half, helping you save on electricity.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many great features, the 700W power might be a bit slower for larger cooking tasks compared to higher wattage microwaves.
- The 0.7 cu ft capacity is great for small kitchens but might feel limited for families or those who cook in larger batches.
This COMFEE’ microwave oven is a solid choice for simple reheating, quick snacks, and basic cooking needs. Its user-friendly design and helpful features make it a practical addition to your countertop.
5. Farberware Countertop 700 Watts
Rating: 9.1/10
The Farberware Countertop 700 Watts, 0.7 cu ft 700-Watt Microwave Oven in black is a handy appliance for anyone needing a quick and easy way to heat up food or cook simple meals. It’s a great fit for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or office break areas.
What We Like:
- It’s powerful at 700 watts, so it heats food quickly.
- It has ten different power levels, giving you lots of control.
- Six one-touch cooking options like popcorn and pizza make things super simple.
- You can defrost food by weight or time, which saves you effort.
- Its 0.7 cubic feet size is perfect for small spaces but still cooks like a bigger oven.
- The interior and exterior are easy to clean.
- A clear LED display shows the time and acts as a kitchen timer.
- Interior lighting lets you see your food while it cooks.
- The child safety lock adds extra peace of mind.
- Farberware is a trusted brand for making meals that bring people together.
What Could Be Improved:
- For very large dishes, the 0.7 cu ft size might feel a bit cramped.
- While it has many features, some users might prefer more advanced cooking presets.
This Farberware microwave offers a good balance of power, convenience, and a compact design. It’s a solid choice for everyday reheating and simple cooking tasks.
Finding Your Perfect Budget Microwave
Are you looking for a microwave that won’t break the bank? Finding a good, cheap microwave is possible! This guide will help you choose the best one for your needs.
Why Choose a Budget Microwave?
Budget microwaves are great for simple tasks. They reheat leftovers, cook popcorn, and defrost frozen foods. They are perfect for dorm rooms, small apartments, or as a second microwave.
Key Features to Look For
Power Levels
Most microwaves have different power levels. Higher power levels cook food faster. Look for at least 5 power settings. This lets you control how your food cooks. You can simmer, defrost, or cook quickly.
Turntable
A turntable is a rotating glass plate. It makes sure your food heats evenly. Most microwaves have this. It’s a very important feature for good cooking.
Size and Capacity
Microwaves come in different sizes. Small ones are good for one person. Larger ones can cook bigger meals. Think about how much space you have and what you will cook.
Pre-set Cooking Programs
Some microwaves have buttons for common foods. These buttons set the cooking time and power for you. They can cook popcorn, potatoes, or pizza. This makes cooking very easy.
Important Materials
Exterior Material
Most cheap microwaves have a plastic exterior. This is usually fine. Some might have stainless steel accents. Stainless steel looks nicer but can cost more. Plastic is durable and easy to clean.
Interior Material
The inside of the microwave is usually made of painted metal or ceramic. Ceramic interiors are easier to clean and more durable. Painted metal can chip over time. Both work well for most users.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Build Quality
A well-built microwave feels sturdy. The door should open and close smoothly. Buttons should be easy to press. A flimsy microwave might not last as long.
Ease of Cleaning
A smooth interior makes cleaning simple. Removable turntables are also helpful. Some microwaves have special easy-clean coatings.
Noise Level
Some microwaves are louder than others. If you are sensitive to noise, look for reviews that mention how quiet the microwave is.
Brand Reputation
While looking for cheap options, still consider brands known for making reliable appliances. Even budget models from good brands tend to last longer.
User Experience and Use Cases
Simple Reheating
Budget microwaves are excellent for quickly warming up leftovers. They save time and energy compared to using a stove.
Basic Cooking
You can cook simple meals like instant noodles or baked potatoes. They are also great for steaming vegetables.
Defrosting
Need to thaw frozen meat or vegetables? Microwaves do this quickly. Just be sure to use the defrost setting for best results.
Dorm Rooms and Small Kitchens
These microwaves are perfect for students or anyone with limited kitchen space. They are compact and do the essential jobs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Cheap Microwaves
Q: What is the most important feature in a cheap microwave?
A: The most important feature is usually the turntable. It ensures your food heats evenly.
Q: Can cheap microwaves cook food well?
A: Yes, they can cook simple foods and reheat leftovers effectively. They are not usually for complex cooking.
Q: How long do cheap microwaves usually last?
A: A good quality cheap microwave can last for several years, often 3-5 years or more with proper care.
Q: Are all cheap microwaves noisy?
A: Not all of them. Some budget models are quieter than others. It’s good to read reviews.
Q: Is a bigger microwave always better?
A: Not necessarily. A bigger microwave uses more counter space and might cost more. Choose a size that fits your needs and space.
Q: What does “wattage” mean for a microwave?
A: Wattage tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most budget microwaves are between 700 and 1000 watts.
Q: Can I put metal in a microwave?
A: No, you should never put metal in a microwave. It can cause sparks and damage the appliance.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my microwave?
A: You can heat a bowl of water with lemon juice or vinegar inside for a few minutes. This loosens stuck-on food, making it easy to wipe clean.
Q: Are there any safety concerns with cheap microwaves?
A: As long as the microwave is in good condition and used correctly, they are safe. Always check for damage.
Q: Where can I find good deals on cheap microwaves?
A: Look at large electronics stores, online retailers, and discount stores. Sales events are also a great time to buy.
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 Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!