10 Best Cheap Dinnerware Set, Top Rated

Our pick: Amazon Basics 16-Piece Porcelain Kitchen Dinnerware Set with Plates

Also great: Amazon Basics Kitchen Dinnerware Set

I’ve used this 18-piece white porcelain dinnerware set for everyday meals, and it’s proven to be a dependable addition to my kitchen. The AB-grade porcelain is pleasantly lightweight but feels solid in hand, and the clean white design makes it versatile for casual dinners or more polished table settings. Everything stacks neatly in the cupboard, washes easily in the dishwasher, and handles microwave reheating with no issues.

Pros:
Durable Yet Lightweight
Classic White Style
Microwave and Dishwasher Safe
Practical Service for 6

Cons:
Plain Design Lacks Decorative Flair
If you’re looking for an affordable, functional dinnerware set that covers family meals or small gatherings with ease, this set is a practical, fuss-free choice. It’s a good everyday staple that delivers exactly what it promises.

Also great: Gibson Home Rockaway 12-Piece Dinnerware Set Service for 4

After using this stoneware dinnerware set, I see why it was named Best Overall Dinnerware Set of 2022 by Better Homes and Gardens. It’s beautifully crafted with a matte glaze that gives it a modern, elegant look. The off-white rim detail adds just enough contrast to keep things interesting without overpowering a table setting. The pieces feel weighty and substantial in hand, yet they’re practical for daily use thanks to their microwave and dishwasher-safe build.

Pros:
Award-Winning Quality
Durable Stoneware Build
Sleek, Stylish Matte Glaze
Stackable Coupe Shape

Cons:
Solid Colors May Show Utensil Marks Over Time
If you want dinnerware that balances everyday durability with contemporary style, this set is a smart investment. It’s easy to clean, feels premium, and elevates casual meals or dinner parties with its understated modern design.

Source: Amazon

A good dinnerware set should feel practical, sturdy, and versatile enough to handle daily meals and special gatherings alike. The material is key — high-quality stoneware, porcelain, or tempered glass will last longer and resist chips or cracks better than cheap ceramic. The set should be microwave- and dishwasher-safe, stack neatly in your cabinets without scratching, and be comfortable to hold and carry. A timeless, neutral design is also a plus — it mixes well with any table setting and won’t look dated after just a few years. In short, the best sets are simple, functional, and built to handle real life.

What are cheap dinner plates made of?

Inexpensive dinner plates are usually made from earthenware, basic ceramic, plastic, or melamine. Earthenware is heavier and more porous than stoneware or porcelain — it’s affordable but can chip or crack more easily. Melamine is a common budget-friendly option too: it’s lightweight and nearly unbreakable, which makes it great for kids or picnics, but it’s not safe for microwave use. Some cheaper plates are made of low-cost glass or thin plastic, but these often scratch or cloud over time. If you’re on a tight budget, look for simple stoneware or porcelain on sale — you’ll get better durability for just a little more money.

What to look for when buying new dishes?

When shopping for new dishes, focus on durability, safety, and how they’ll fit your daily routine. Here are a few smart things to check:

• Material: Choose stoneware, porcelain, or tempered glass if you want plates that last.

• Safety: Make sure they’re labeled lead-free and food-safe — especially if they have colorful glazes.

• Microwave & Dishwasher Safe: This makes cleanup and reheating easy.

• Feel & Balance: Pick plates that feel comfortable to hold — not too heavy, not too light.

• Design: A neutral color or classic pattern goes with everything and never feels dated.

• Stackability: Plates and bowls should stack neatly to save cabinet space and prevent chipping.

A little attention to these details will help you avoid regrets later.

What is the safest dinnerware material?

The safest dinnerware materials are non-toxic and non-porous, so they won’t absorb food or leach harmful chemicals. Trusted options include porcelain, stoneware, bone china, and tempered glass (like Corelle). These are fired at high temperatures, making them strong and naturally safe. Always double-check that the dinnerware is labeled lead-free and cadmium-free, especially if it’s brightly colored or patterned. Reputable brands sold in the U.S. have to meet strict food safety standards — so sticking with names you know is a smart move if you want worry-free meals. 

Even on a budget, you can find sets that look good, hold up well to daily use, and are easy to clean and store. Brands like Corelle, Gibson, and Amazon Basics offer solid options that won’t break the bank but still handle family meals and casual gatherings with ease. A good affordable dinnerware set proves that you don’t have to spend a lot to make your table feel inviting — just pick a style you love, and enjoy every meal that much more.