Ever feel like your kitchen is missing a little something, but you don’t want to spend a fortune? That’s where the humble microwave comes in. It’s a kitchen workhorse, heating up leftovers, popping popcorn, and even helping us cook quick meals. But walking into an appliance store or scrolling online, you’re hit with so many choices! It can be confusing to find a microwave that’s good for your needs without emptying your wallet.
Choosing the right “value” microwave can feel like a puzzle. You want something that works well, lasts a while, and doesn’t break the bank. Sometimes, the cheapest options just don’t cut it, and the fancier ones are way too expensive. It’s easy to feel lost trying to figure out what features are important and which brands offer the best bang for your buck.
But don’t worry! This guide is here to help. We’ll break down what makes a microwave a great value. You’ll learn how to spot the best features for your everyday cooking and discover some top picks that offer quality without the hefty price tag. By the end, you’ll feel confident in choosing a microwave that will be a reliable friend in your kitchen for years to come.
Our Top 5 Value Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Value Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4″ Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor
Rating: 9.4/10
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens is a sleek silver appliance that brings smart cooking to your kitchen. With a generous 1.2 cubic feet of space and a large 12.4-inch turntable, it easily fits your favorite dishes. This microwave is designed to make cooking simpler and more efficient for everyone.
What We Like:
- The Smart Humidity Sensor takes the guesswork out of cooking. It automatically adjusts the time and power to prevent your food from getting overcooked or undercooked.
- It offers 12 auto menus, including popular options like pizza and vegetable settings, making meal prep a breeze.
- With 10 different power levels, you have lots of control over how you cook your food.
- The Easy Defrost feature lets you quickly thaw frozen items by weight or time.
- A One-Touch Start button allows you to begin cooking at full power for 1 to 6 minutes with a single press.
- The Mute Function lets you turn off the annoying beeping sounds, which is great for late-night snacks or quiet mornings.
- ECO Mode helps save energy when the microwave is not in use.
- The interior is easy to clean, saving you time and effort.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has 12 auto menus, only 6 are preset for popular foods; the other 6 are for sensor cooking.
- The input power is 1600 watts, which is higher than some other microwaves, though the output power is a standard 1000 watts.
This Toshiba microwave is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering smart features and user-friendly operation.
2. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 9.2/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact powerhouse designed for your busy life. With its 0.7 cubic feet of space and 700 watts of power, it’s ready to handle all your reheating and cooking needs. This black microwave boasts 10 different power levels, giving you precise control over your food. Plus, with 6 handy cooking presets, you can cook your favorite foods with just one touch.
What We Like:
- It cooks food extra-quick, offering six popular presets like popcorn, pizza, and veggies.
- You get a lot of control with 10 power levels, from melting butter to fast cooking.
- Digital controls make it super easy to set time and power, and the +30 seconds button is handy.
- The memory function lets you save your favorite cooking settings for one-touch starts.
- Safety is a priority with a child lock and a control panel lock mode.
- You can turn off those annoying beeps with the mute button, perfect for quiet mornings or late nights.
- Its sleek, black design fits well in any kitchen, and Eco Mode saves energy.
- Cleaning is a breeze; the exterior wipes clean easily, and the glass turntable is dishwasher safe.
- Chefman offers trusted quality with cETL approval and a 1-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity might be a bit small for larger families or for cooking big meals.
- While powerful, 700 watts is on the lower end of microwave power, so cooking might take slightly longer than with higher wattage models.
This Chefman microwave is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking convenience and efficiency in their kitchen. It offers smart features in a small package.
3. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
Rating: 9.3/10
Meet the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven, your new kitchen helper! This sleek black microwave boasts a 1.2 cubic foot capacity, fitting nicely on your countertop. It’s packed with smart features like a humidity sensor that makes sure your food is cooked just right. Plus, it has 12 auto menus for quick meals and a handy mute function so it won’t buzz loudly.
What We Like:
- The Smart Humidity Sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power for perfect results.
- It offers 12 auto menus, making it super easy to cook popular foods like pizza and vegetables.
- You get 10 power levels for flexible cooking, from gentle warming to quick boiling.
- Defrosting is a breeze, whether you use weight or time.
- The One-Touch Start function lets you begin cooking at full power for 1-6 minutes with a single touch.
- The Mute Mode is a lifesaver for quiet kitchens, easily activated by holding the “8” button.
- The ECO Mode helps save energy when the microwave is not in use.
- It has a large 12.4-inch removable glass turntable that fits bigger dishes.
- The interior is designed for easy cleaning.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has 12 auto menus, the description specifically lists 6 preset menus. This could be clearer.
- The input power of 1600 watts is higher than the output power of 1000 watts, which is common for microwaves but worth noting.
This Toshiba microwave is a powerful and smart addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and excellent cooking performance for everyday needs.
4. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 9.0/10
The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a sleek, black appliance designed for convenience in your kitchen. It’s compact at 0.7 cubic feet, making it a great fit for smaller spaces, and it boasts a user-friendly design with simple one-touch buttons. This microwave is built to simplify your cooking and reheating tasks.
What We Like:
- The mute function is fantastic for quiet kitchens or late-night snacks.
- ECO Mode saves energy by reducing standby power.
- Easy one-touch buttons and express cooking options make heating food quick and simple.
- The child safety lock adds peace of mind for families.
- It has helpful auto-cook functions for popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and more.
- The bright digital display and interior light make it easy to see and use.
- A 10-inch glass turntable fits most common dishes.
- The silent mode is a great feature for a quieter kitchen experience.
What Could Be Improved:
- For some, the 0.7 cubic foot capacity might be a bit small for larger meals or multiple items.
- While easy to use, the defrost options are limited to by weight or time, which may not suit all needs.
Overall, the COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB offers a great blend of convenience and thoughtful features for everyday use. It’s a solid choice for anyone seeking a straightforward and quiet microwave.
5. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 8.5/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven offers a compact yet powerful way to heat your food. This 0.9 cubic foot microwave packs 900 watts of power and features 10 different power levels. It also has six handy cooking presets for common items like popcorn, pizza, and vegetables. You can easily set the cooking time by just pressing the number keys for minutes. Plus, it comes in a sleek black finish that looks good in any kitchen.
What We Like:
- It cooks extra-quick with six popular presets.
- You can choose from 10 power levels for precise cooking.
- Digital controls make it easy to set time and power.
- The memory function lets you save your favorite cooking settings.
- A child safety lock keeps the door secure.
- The mute option lets you turn off annoying beeps.
- Its modern design fits well in any kitchen.
- Cleaning is easy; the exterior wipes clean, and the turntable is dishwasher safe.
- It’s cETL approved and comes with a 1-year assurance.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity might be small for larger families or big meals.
- While it has many features, some might find the number of buttons a bit overwhelming at first.
This Chefman microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and feature-rich countertop appliance. It makes everyday cooking tasks simple and efficient.
The Smart Shopper’s Guide to Value Microwaves
Finding the right microwave doesn’t have to break the bank. A “value microwave” offers great performance and useful features without a hefty price tag. This guide will help you pick the perfect one for your kitchen.
1. Key Features to Look For
Power (Wattage)
Microwaves cook food using power, measured in watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most value microwaves are between 700 and 1000 watts. For everyday reheating and simple cooking, 700-800 watts is usually enough. If you plan to cook more often or need to defrost quickly, aim for 900-1000 watts.
Capacity (Cubic Feet)
This tells you how much food can fit inside. Small microwaves (around 0.7 cubic feet) are good for small spaces or just reheating drinks. Medium-sized ones (1.0-1.5 cubic feet) are great for most families. If you often cook large dishes or a whole chicken, look for something bigger.
Turntable
A turntable rotates food for even cooking. Most value microwaves have this. Some larger or more expensive models might have a glass tray that doesn’t turn, but this is rare for value options.
Presets and Auto-Cook Functions
These are buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or potatoes. They automatically set the cooking time and power level. They are super convenient and a great feature for value microwaves.
Defrost Settings
Most microwaves have a defrost option. Some let you defrost by weight, while others let you set the time. Both work well, but defrosting by weight is often more accurate.
2. Important Materials
Exterior
Most value microwaves have a plastic or metal exterior. Metal exteriors are usually more durable and easier to clean. Plastic exteriors can be lighter and come in more color options.
Interior
The inside of the microwave is usually made of painted metal or stainless steel. Painted metal is common and works fine. Stainless steel interiors are more durable, resist stains better, and look sleeker, but they can cost a bit more.
Door Window
Look for a sturdy glass door. It should have a good seal to keep heat inside and be easy to see through.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Build Quality
A well-built microwave feels solid. Doors should open and close smoothly. Buttons should be responsive. Cheaply made microwaves might feel flimsy and break easily.
Ease of Cleaning
A non-stick interior coating or a smooth, wipeable surface makes cleaning a breeze. Removable turntables also help. Stubborn stains can be hard to remove from rough interiors.
Noise Level
Some microwaves are louder than others. If you’re sensitive to noise, check reviews to see if a model is known for being quiet.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Everyday Reheating
For reheating leftovers, making instant noodles, or warming up drinks, almost any value microwave will do the job. Focus on capacity and ease of use.
Simple Cooking
If you plan to cook things like baked potatoes, steam vegetables, or cook frozen meals, a higher wattage and good preset functions will be helpful. A larger capacity is also beneficial.
Small Kitchens or Dorm Rooms
Compact value microwaves are perfect for saving space. They still offer basic functions for quick meals and snacks.
Choosing a value microwave means finding the right balance of features and price for your needs. With these tips, you can make a smart choice that will serve you well!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the average price range for a value microwave?
A: Value microwaves typically cost between $50 and $150. Prices can vary based on brand and specific features.
Q: Do value microwaves cook food as well as expensive ones?
A: For most everyday tasks, yes. They might not have all the fancy bells and whistles, but they heat and cook food effectively.
Q: How long do value microwaves usually last?
A: With good care, a value microwave can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years.
Q: Are value microwaves noisy?
A: Some can be, but many value models are designed to be reasonably quiet. Checking reviews is helpful.
Q: Can I cook full meals in a value microwave?
A: You can cook many simple meals and frozen dinners. For complex recipes, a conventional oven might be better.
Q: What does “wattage” mean for a microwave?
A: Wattage is the power output of the microwave. Higher wattage means faster cooking.
Q: Is a turntable important in a microwave?
A: Yes, a turntable rotates food for more even heating. Most value microwaves include one.
Q: How do I clean a value microwave?
A: Wipe the interior with a damp cloth and mild soap. Remove the turntable and wash it separately.
Q: Should I buy a microwave with a digital display?
A: A digital display makes it easier to set cooking times and see the remaining time. It’s a useful feature for most people.
Q: What if I need to defrost a lot of food?
A: Look for a microwave with a good defrost function, perhaps one that lets you defrost by weight for best results.
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!