The 10 Best Inexpensive Microwave of 2025 for Your Kitchen

Source: Amazon

Best Safety Features: BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven

Pros:

• Child Safety Lock

• Multiple Pre-programmed Buttons

• Large LED Display

• Compact Countertop Design

Cons:

• Lower Wattage (700W)

This BLACK+DECKER microwave offers a practical balance of safety and convenience, making it a solid choice for residential kitchens. Its standout feature is the child safety lock, which ensures peace of mind for families. The microwave includes multiple pre-programmed buttons tailored for common foods like popcorn, pizza, and vegetables, simplifying everyday use. The large LED digital display and easy-to-read control panel enhance user experience, while the compact stainless steel design fits comfortably on most countertops. Although its 700-watt power is lower compared to some competitors, it provides ten power settings and a quick 30-second express cooking option, accommodating a variety of cooking needs. The inclusion of a removable 10-inch glass turntable and interior light rounds out the practical features, making it an efficient, user-friendly appliance for small to medium meal preparations.

Best Retro Design: Nostalgia Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven

Pros:

• 12 Pre-programmed Settings

• Child Safety Lock

• Even Cooking with Glass Carousel

• Digital Clock with LED Display

Cons:

• Limited Capacity (0.7 cu ft)

The Nostalgia microwave combines functionality with a distinctive retro aesthetic, making it an appealing addition to any kitchen countertop. It delivers 700 watts of cooking power, sufficient for quick reheating and basic cooking tasks. The 12 pre-programmed cooking settings cover a wide range of common foods, offering convenience and versatility. The rotating glass carousel ensures even heating, preventing cold spots in meals. The LED-lit digital clock and clear control panel enhance usability, while the child safety lock adds an important layer of protection. Its compact size fits easily in small kitchens, though the 0.7 cubic foot capacity limits larger meal preparations. Overall, this microwave stands out for merging practical features with nostalgic style.

Best Power and Capacity: BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven

Pros:

• 900 Watts Cooking Power

• Larger 0.9 Cubic Feet Capacity

• Child Safety Lock

• Multiple Pre-programmed Buttons

Cons:

• Slightly Larger Footprint

This BLACK+DECKER microwave offers a robust 900-watt power output paired with a spacious 0.9 cubic foot interior, ideal for cooking and reheating larger meals efficiently. It features ten power settings and several pre-programmed buttons for common foods such as popcorn, pizza, and frozen vegetables, simplifying everyday use. The large LED digital display and easy-to-read control panel enhance user interaction, while the child safety lock ensures added protection. A removable 10.6-inch glass turntable supports even cooking, complemented by an interior light for clear visibility. Though its footprint is somewhat larger than more compact models, this microwave balances power, capacity, and safety effectively for residential countertop use.

Best Compact Versatility: 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave Countertop Small with Digital Display

Pros:

• Auto Cook and Defrost Functions

• 10 Power Levels

• Child Safety Lock

• TouchPad and Push Button Controls

Cons:

• Plastic Exterior

This Roomwell microwave is a compact and versatile option designed to fit small spaces without sacrificing functionality. With a 0.7 cubic foot capacity and 700 watts of power, it delivers efficient cooking suitable for both residential and light commercial use. The microwave features six auto-cooking menus and an auto-defrost option, streamlining meal preparation with one-touch convenience. Its user-friendly interface combines a TouchPad with push-button controls for easy operation and precise adjustments. Safety is a priority with an integrated child safety lock, preventing unintended use. Constructed from a mix of plastic and steel, it balances durability and lightweight portability, though the plastic exterior may affect long-term resilience compared to full stainless steel models. Overall, it is a practical choice for small kitchens or dorm rooms needing reliable, multifunctional microwave performance.

Best Customizable Cooking: Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts, 0.7 Cu. Ft

Pros:

• Ten Power Levels

• Six One-Touch Cooking Options

• Child Safety Lock

• Easy-to-Clean Interior and Exterior

Cons:

• Moderate Cooking Power (700W)

Farberware’s microwave offers a well-rounded cooking experience tailored for residential use. Its 700-watt power supports quick meal preparation, enhanced by ten adjustable power levels and six one-touch presets that simplify common tasks like popcorn, potato, and pizza. The microwave also includes flexible defrosting by weight or time, allowing precise control over meal prep. Compact at 0.7 cubic feet, it fits easily into small spaces while providing sufficient capacity for everyday use. The clear LED display with kitchen timer and clock improves usability, and interior lighting helps monitor cooking progress. A child safety lock further secures operation, making this unit a practical and reliable countertop appliance for homes and offices alike.

Choosing the best inexpensive microwave requires consideration of various factors to ensure it meets your cooking needs, budget constraints, and space limitations. Here are key considerations to keep in mind:

Budget Constraints

Prioritize your budget limitations when selecting an inexpensive microwave. Determine a reasonable price range that aligns with your financial considerations while still providing essential features and reliable performance.

Size and Available Kitchen Space

Consider the available kitchen space and layout when choosing the microwave size. Measure the countertop or designated microwave area to ensure compatibility with the selected microwave's dimensions. Opt for a compact or mid-sized microwave if space is limited, or consider over-the-range or built-in models for integrated solutions.

Cooking Requirements and Frequency of Use

Assess your cooking needs and frequency of microwave use to determine the appropriate features and cooking capabilities. Consider essential functions such as defrosting, reheating, and basic cooking, as well as additional features like preset cooking programs, sensor cooking, and power levels based on your culinary preferences and lifestyle.

User-Friendly Features

Look for user-friendly features and intuitive controls that enhance usability and convenience. Choose a microwave with clear and responsive buttons or touchpad controls, easy-to-read display panels, and preset cooking options to streamline the cooking process and ensure consistent results. Consider additional features such as auto-cook menus, one-touch buttons, and child safety locks for added convenience and safety.

Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews

Research reputable microwave brands known for manufacturing quality appliances backed by positive customer reviews and satisfaction ratings. Consider factors such as reliability, durability, and customer service reputation when evaluating different brands and models. Read online reviews and consumer feedback to gain insights into the performance, reliability, and overall user experience of the microwave models you're considering.

The cost of a decent microwave can vary depending on factors such as brand, size, features, and build quality. Generally, you can find decent microwaves priced anywhere from $70 to $300 or more. Entry-level models with basic features tend to be on the lower end of the price spectrum, while larger capacity microwaves with advanced features like convection cooking or sensor technology can be more expensive.

What is the difference between cheap and expensive microwaves?

The main differences between cheap and expensive microwaves lie in their build quality, features, and performance. Expensive microwaves often feature higher-quality materials, more advanced cooking functions, larger capacities, and better overall performance and reliability. They may also come with additional features like sensor cooking, convection cooking, or presets for specific food items. In contrast, cheaper microwaves typically have simpler designs, fewer features, and may not offer the same level of durability or cooking performance.

Which microwave is best for daily use?

The best microwave for daily use depends on your specific needs and preferences. Look for a microwave that offers the right combination of size, power, features, and ease of use for your everyday cooking tasks. Consider factors such as cooking capacity, power output, preset cooking options, ease of cleaning, and durability. Popular brands known for producing reliable microwaves include Panasonic, Toshiba, Samsung, and GE, among others.

What are 3 disadvantages of using a microwave?

While microwaves offer convenience and speed, they also have some disadvantages:

a. Uneven heating: Microwaves may heat food unevenly, resulting in hot spots and cold spots within the dish.

b. Limited cooking methods: Microwaves are primarily used for reheating, defrosting, and cooking certain types of foods quickly. They may not be suitable for certain cooking methods or dishes that require precise temperature control or browning.

c. Potential nutrient loss: Some studies suggest that microwaving food can lead to nutrient loss, particularly water-soluble vitamins like vitamin C and B vitamins. However, the extent of nutrient loss depends on factors such as cooking time, temperature, and food composition.

Is it OK to microwave food every day?

Microwaving food every day is generally considered safe, as long as you follow proper food safety guidelines and use microwave-safe containers. Microwaves heat food by producing electromagnetic radiation that causes water molecules in the food to vibrate, generating heat. While there have been concerns about potential health risks associated with microwave radiation, modern microwaves are designed to contain radiation within the appliance and pose minimal risk to users. However, it's essential to avoid microwaving certain types of materials, such as metal or plastic containers not labeled as microwave-safe, as they can pose safety hazards or leach harmful chemicals into the food. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet that includes a variety of cooking methods can help ensure nutritional adequacy.

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When searching for the best inexpensive microwave, it’s clear that affordability doesn’t have to mean sacrificing essential features or reliability. The models reviewed here offer solid performance, user-friendly controls, and durable designs—all while fitting comfortably within a budget. Whether you need a compact option for small spaces or a versatile unit for everyday cooking, these microwaves deliver value without unnecessary frills. Ultimately, choosing the right affordable microwave comes down to balancing your specific needs with dependable functionality, ensuring you get the most for your money without compromise.