Do you dream of quick, hot meals but cringe at the thought of a hefty price tag for a new microwave? Finding a reliable appliance that fits a tight budget can feel like a real challenge. Many people need a dependable microwave for simple tasks like reheating leftovers or popping popcorn, but they worry that anything under $100 will break down quickly or lack basic features.
The struggle is real when you see so many models promising the world but delivering very little, especially when money is tight. You want value, not just a cheap purchase. You need a microwave that works well every day without causing stress about its lifespan or performance.
This guide cuts through the noise. We have tested and researched the best microwaves available right now that cost less than one hundred dollars. You will learn exactly which models offer the most power, the best size, and the most helpful features for your hard-earned money. Get ready to find your perfect budget-friendly kitchen helper!
Top Microwave Oven Under $100 Recommendations
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.Frequency : 60 Hz
- 1000 Watts Output with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 seconds express cooking, Input power: 1600W
- Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 12.4” glass turntable
- Push-button door release for easy access
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 20.6” x 16.5” x 11.8”; Color of door frame is stainless steel, enclosure is black
- 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).
- 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”
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate
- 900 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 10.6” glass turntable
- Push-button door release for easy access
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 18.6” x 13.6” x 10.7”, Internal dimensions: 12.36” x 13.66” x 8.70” (W x D x H); Color of door frame is stainless steel, enclosure is black
- 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.
The Smart Shopper’s Guide to Microwaves Under $100
Finding a great microwave without breaking the bank is totally possible. Microwaves under $100 are usually compact and perfect for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices. This guide helps you pick the best one for your needs.
1. Key Features to Look For
You need to check a few important things before you buy. These features make using your microwave easier and safer.
- Wattage (Power): This shows how fast your food cooks. Look for at least 700 watts (W). Higher wattage (like 1000W) cooks faster, but lower wattage models are common in this price range.
- Capacity (Size): This is measured in cubic feet (cu. ft.). For one or two people, 0.7 to 0.9 cu. ft. works well. Bigger families might struggle with these smaller sizes.
- Control Type: Most budget microwaves use **dial controls** (turn a knob for time). These are simple and rarely break. Digital keypads are nicer but sometimes cost more.
- Pre-set Cooking Options: Check if it has simple buttons for popcorn, defrosting, or reheating. These save time guessing the right power level.
2. Important Materials and Construction
The materials inside and out affect how long the microwave lasts and how easy it is to clean.
The outer casing is usually painted metal. This is fine for most homes. Inside, you want a **turntable made of glass**. Glass cleans up easily when food spills. Plastic interiors scratch faster.
Check the door latch. A sturdy latch means the door will close securely every time. Cheap plastic latches can wear out quickly.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one cheap microwave better than another? It often comes down to small details.
Factors Improving Quality:
- Even Cooking Technology: Some models use better ways to spread the microwaves around. This means less cold food in the middle.
- Easy-to-Read Display: If you can see the timer clearly, it improves your daily use.
- Quiet Operation: Louder humming during use can be annoying. Look for reviews mentioning quiet performance.
Factors Reducing Quality:
- Flimsy Buttons/Dials: If the buttons feel mushy or the dial wobbles, the quality is low.
- Short Power Cord: A very short cord limits where you can safely place the unit, reducing usability.
- No Interior Light: You cannot check your food without opening the door if there is no light inside.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Microwaves under $100 are best suited for specific tasks.
These are excellent for **quick reheating** of coffee, soup, or leftovers. They are perfect for **dorm rooms** where space is tight and cooking needs are minimal. They also work well in **small offices** or as a backup unit.
They might struggle with larger items. Trying to heat a big casserole dish will be difficult because the capacity is small, and the lower wattage means longer cooking times.
Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Microwaves Under $100
Q: Can I cook full meals in a microwave under $100?
A: You can heat up pre-made meals easily. Cooking complex meals from scratch takes longer because these models often have lower wattage (around 700W to 800W).
Q: Are these microwaves safe to use?
A: Yes, they meet all safety standards. Just make sure you never put metal inside and always check that the door seals properly.
Q: What is the minimum wattage I should accept?
A: Aim for at least 700 watts. Anything less will take a very long time to warm up even a cup of water.
Q: Do they come with a warranty?
A: Most budget microwaves include a standard one-year manufacturer’s warranty covering defects. Always check the specific product listing.
Q: How do I clean the inside of a cheap microwave?
A: The best way is to heat a bowl of water mixed with lemon slices for three minutes. The steam loosens grime, and you can wipe it down easily afterward.
Q: Will a small microwave fit a standard dinner plate?
A: Usually, yes, if the capacity is 0.8 cu. ft. or larger. Smaller 0.5 or 0.6 cu. ft. models might require you to use smaller plates or bowls.
Q: Are dial controls better than digital pads in this price range?
A: For reliability, yes. Dials are less likely to fail than cheap membrane keypads found on the lowest-priced models.
Q: What is the most common size for a sub-$100 microwave?
A: The most common size you find is around 0.7 cubic feet. This is a good balance between counter space and cooking ability.
Q: Can I use these microwaves for defrosting meat?
A: Yes, most include a specific defrost setting. This setting uses lower power so the outside of the meat does not cook while the inside thaws.
Q: Where should I place the microwave for best performance?
A: Place it on a sturdy, flat countertop away from heat sources. Ensure there is space around the back and sides for air to flow out. Good ventilation is important.