10 Best Microwave Oven Under $100 Reviewed

Microwave ovens have become indispensable appliances in modern kitchens, offering convenience and efficiency in cooking and reheating various dishes. However, with the multitude of options available on the market, selecting the right microwave oven can be a daunting task. To aid in this decision-making process, it's essential to consider several key factors.

Power and Wattage

The wattage of a microwave oven directly affects its cooking speed and performance. Higher wattage typically results in faster cooking times, making it crucial for those who rely on their microwave for quick meal preparation. For instance, a microwave with 900 watts or above is ideal for cooking a wide range of dishes efficiently.

When choosing a microwave oven, consider your household's cooking habits and requirements. For smaller households or occasional microwave users, a model with lower wattage, around 700-800 watts, may suffice. Conversely, larger families or individuals who frequently cook or reheat larger portions may benefit from a higher wattage model, such as 1000 watts or more.

Capacity and Size

Microwave ovens come in various sizes, ranging from compact models suitable for apartments or dormitories to larger units designed for spacious kitchens. Before making a purchase, assess your kitchen space and intended usage to determine the appropriate size. For instance, compact microwaves with capacities around 0.7 to 1.2 cubic feet are suitable for smaller kitchens, while larger families may opt for models with capacities exceeding 1.5 cubic feet.

While it's tempting to opt for a microwave with the largest capacity available, it's essential to consider your countertop space. Ensure that the chosen model fits comfortably within your kitchen layout without overcrowding other appliances or work surfaces. Additionally, consider built-in or over-the-range options for maximizing space efficiency.

Features and Functions

Basic features such as a digital timer, defrost function, and cooking presets are essential for versatile microwave use. A programmable timer allows for precise cooking times, while the defrost function ensures even thawing of frozen foods. Cooking presets for common dishes simplify the cooking process, providing convenient one-touch operation.

Advanced microwave models may offer additional cooking functions such as grilling, convection baking, or combination modes. These features expand the versatility of the microwave oven, allowing for a broader range of cooking techniques and recipes. Consider your cooking preferences and whether these additional functions align with your culinary needs.

Design and Build Quality

The durability of a microwave oven is influenced by its construction quality and materials used. Opt for models constructed from sturdy materials such as stainless steel or durable plastic for long-lasting performance. Additionally, consider the reputation of the manufacturer and read reviews to gauge the reliability and longevity of the product.

Beyond functionality, the design of the microwave oven should complement your kitchen decor and aesthetic preferences. Choose a model with a sleek and modern design that seamlessly integrates into your kitchen space. Consider factors such as color, finish, and ergonomic features to ensure harmony with your overall kitchen design.

The Sharp Countertop Microwave Oven offers a blend of efficiency and simplicity, making it a notable addition to any kitchen setup. With dimensions of 12.8 inches in depth, 17.3 inches in width, and 10.2 inches in height, it fits snugly on countertops without compromising on interior capacity. Its sleek white exterior adds a touch of modernity to any kitchen decor, seamlessly blending into its surroundings.

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One of its standout features is its 0.7 cubic feet capacity, providing ample space for various culinary endeavors. Whether you're reheating leftovers, defrosting ingredients, or preparing a quick meal, this microwave ensures versatility in handling different portions.

Equipped with a timer, defrost function, and turntable, this appliance offers convenience at your fingertips. The timer allows precise control over cooking durations, ensuring your dishes are cooked to perfection. Meanwhile, the defrost function efficiently thaws frozen foods, saving you valuable time in meal preparation. The turntable ensures even heating, eliminating cold spots and guaranteeing uniform cooking results.

Installation is a breeze with its countertop design, requiring minimal setup effort. At 700 watts, it delivers sufficient power for everyday cooking tasks while maintaining energy efficiency. The use of glass material not only enhances durability but also facilitates easy cleaning, ensuring a hygienic cooking environment.

Included with the microwave is a roller ring, enhancing stability during operation and contributing to its overall user-friendliness. The touch controller adds a modern touch to the interface, offering intuitive operation for users of all experience levels.

In conclusion, the Sharp Countertop Microwave Oven stands out as a reliable kitchen companion, offering practical features and efficient performance. Its compact design, coupled with versatile functionality, makes it an ideal choice for households seeking convenience without compromising on quality. Whether you're a culinary enthusiast or a busy professional, this microwave caters to your diverse cooking needs with ease.

The Nostalgia Countertop Microwave Oven seamlessly blends vintage aesthetics with modern functionality, making it a charming addition to any kitchen space. Boasting dimensions of 14 inches in depth, 18 inches in width, and 10.25 inches in height, it offers a compact footprint that fits perfectly on countertops, ensuring convenience without sacrificing on interior capacity.

Dressed in a vibrant red hue, this microwave oven adds a pop of color to your kitchen decor, evoking a sense of nostalgia while exuding contemporary flair. Its 0.7 cubic feet capacity provides ample room for various culinary endeavors, catering to the needs of households both small and large.

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One of its standout features is the safety lock, offering peace of mind by preventing unauthorized access, particularly in households with children. This feature enhances safety without compromising on accessibility, ensuring a worry-free cooking experience.

Recommended for residential use, this microwave oven is designed to meet the diverse needs of home cooks. Its countertop installation type simplifies setup, requiring minimal effort for integration into your kitchen layout. Operating at 700 watts, it delivers sufficient power for everyday cooking tasks while maintaining energy efficiency, helping to reduce electricity costs.

Crafted from durable glass material, this microwave oven not only ensures longevity but also facilitates easy cleaning, promoting a hygienic cooking environment. The inclusion of the microwave oven itself as the primary component simplifies assembly, eliminating the need for additional accessories.

The Farberware Countertop Microwave Oven presents a sleek and efficient solution for culinary enthusiasts seeking reliability and convenience in their kitchen appliances. With dimensions measuring 12.91 inches in depth, 17.75 inches in width, and 10.1 inches in height, it offers a compact footprint that seamlessly integrates into any kitchen setup without compromising on interior capacity.

Sporting a sophisticated black exterior, this microwave oven exudes a sense of modernity, adding a touch of elegance to your kitchen decor. Its 0.7 cubic feet capacity provides ample space for various cooking tasks, making it a versatile companion for households of all sizes.

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A notable feature of this microwave oven is its programmable functionality, offering enhanced control and customization over your cooking experience. Whether you're reheating leftovers, defrosting ingredients, or cooking a meal from scratch, the programmable settings ensure precision and consistency in results, catering to your culinary preferences with ease.

Recommended for residential use, this microwave oven is designed to meet the diverse needs of home cooks, offering convenience and efficiency in equal measure. Its countertop installation type simplifies setup, requiring minimal effort for integration into your kitchen layout. Operating at 700 watts, it provides sufficient power for everyday cooking tasks while maintaining energy efficiency, helping to keep electricity costs in check.

Included with the microwave oven are essential components such as the turntable and user guide, ensuring a hassle-free setup and operation experience. The touch controller adds a modern touch to the interface, offering intuitive navigation and control for users of all skill levels.

The Black+Decker Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave Oven stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to excellence, blending functionality with sleek design elements to deliver an outstanding culinary experience. With dimensions measuring 13 inches in depth, 17.3 inches in width, and 10.2 inches in height, it offers a compact footprint that effortlessly fits into any kitchen space while still providing ample interior capacity.

Clad in sophisticated stainless steel, this microwave oven adds a touch of modern elegance to your kitchen decor. The stainless steel construction not only enhances durability but also ensures easy maintenance, making it a practical choice for busy households. The inclusion of glass elements further enhances its aesthetic appeal while facilitating effortless cleaning.

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Featuring a capacity of 0.7 cubic feet, this microwave oven is perfectly suited for various cooking tasks, from reheating leftovers to defrosting ingredients and preparing quick meals. Its versatility makes it an indispensable asset in residential kitchens, catering to the diverse needs of households of all sizes.

A standout feature of this microwave oven is its safety lock, offering peace of mind by preventing unauthorized access, particularly in households with children. Additionally, the inclusion of two removable legs enhances stability during operation, further bolstering its safety features.

Recommended for residential use, this microwave oven is designed to streamline your cooking experience, offering convenience and efficiency in equal measure. Its countertop installation type simplifies setup, requiring minimal effort for integration into your kitchen layout. Operating at 700 watts, it provides sufficient power for everyday cooking tasks while ensuring energy efficiency, helping to reduce electricity consumption and costs.

Included with the microwave oven is a roller ring, which enhances stability during use and contributes to its overall user-friendliness. With its intuitive design and reliable performance, this microwave oven simplifies meal preparation, empowering you to create delicious dishes with ease.

The COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven is a versatile and reliable kitchen companion, designed to simplify meal preparation while offering convenience and efficiency. With dimensions measuring 13 inches in depth, 17.3 inches in width, and 10.2 inches in height, it boasts a compact footprint that fits seamlessly on any countertop, making it an ideal addition to kitchens of all sizes.

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Presented in a classic white color, this microwave oven adds a touch of simplicity to your kitchen decor, blending effortlessly with various design styles. Its understated appearance belies its impressive functionality, making it a practical choice for both novice and experienced cooks alike.

With a generous capacity of 20.95 quarts, this microwave oven provides ample space for a variety of cooking tasks, making it particularly well-suited for vegetable preparation. Whether you're steaming fresh greens, reheating leftovers, or defrosting ingredients, this appliance ensures consistent results with every use.

A notable feature of this microwave oven is its safety lock, offering peace of mind by preventing unintended access, particularly in households with curious children. This feature enhances safety without compromising on accessibility, allowing you to cook with confidence.

Recommended for vegetable use, this microwave oven is tailored to meet the specific needs of health-conscious individuals and culinary enthusiasts. Its countertop installation type simplifies setup, requiring minimal effort for integration into your kitchen layout. Operating at 700 watts, it delivers sufficient power for a range of cooking tasks while maintaining energy efficiency, helping to reduce electricity consumption and costs.

The lifespan of a cheap microwave can vary depending on factors such as usage frequency, build quality, and maintenance. Generally, inexpensive microwaves may last anywhere from 3 to 7 years on average. However, it's essential to note that some cheaper models may have a shorter lifespan due to lower-quality components or less durable construction.

What is the difference between cheap and expensive microwaves?

The differences between cheap and expensive microwaves primarily lie in build quality, features, and performance. Expensive microwaves often have higher-quality materials, more advanced cooking features (such as sensor cooking), and additional functions like convection or grill modes. They may also come with longer warranties and better customer support. Cheaper microwaves, on the other hand, may have simpler designs, fewer features, and shorter warranties. However, they can still provide basic cooking functions at a lower price point.

Is it worth getting an expensive microwave?

Whether it's worth getting an expensive microwave depends on your needs, preferences, and budget. If you value advanced features, durability, and additional cooking options, investing in a more expensive microwave may be worthwhile. Expensive microwaves often offer better performance, more precise cooking control, and longer lifespans compared to cheaper models. However, if you have basic cooking needs and are on a tight budget, a cheaper microwave may still serve you well.

What wattage of microwave should I buy?

The wattage of the microwave you should buy depends on your cooking habits and needs. Generally, higher wattage microwaves (800 watts and above) cook food faster and more evenly than lower wattage models. If you frequently cook or reheat larger quantities of food or require faster cooking times, a microwave with higher wattage (such as 1000 watts or more) may be preferable. However, if you mainly use your microwave for simple tasks like heating beverages or defrosting small portions, a lower wattage model may suffice.

Do more expensive microwaves last longer?

Generally, more expensive microwaves may have better build quality and more durable components, which can contribute to a longer lifespan compared to cheaper models. However, the lifespan of a microwave depends on various factors beyond just the price, including usage, maintenance, and environmental conditions. While expensive microwaves may offer features and build quality that could potentially extend their lifespan, it's not a guarantee. Proper care and maintenance are crucial regardless of the microwave's price to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

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