8 Best Microwave Under 100, Ranked By Experts

Finding a reliable microwave under $100 may seem like a challenge, but with the right considerations, you can discover a budget-friendly option that suits your needs. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through the process:

Size and Capacity: Look for compact microwaves with adequate internal capacity for your cooking needs. While smaller microwaves are generally cheaper, ensure it still offers enough space to accommodate your typical cookware and food items.

Power and Wattage: Opt for a microwave with sufficient power for your cooking requirements. While lower-priced microwaves typically have lower wattages (around 600-800 watts), aim for the highest wattage possible within your budget to ensure faster and more even cooking.

Basic Functions: Prioritize essential functions such as defrost, reheat, and cooking presets. While budget microwaves may not offer advanced features like sensor cooking or convection options, ensure it covers your basic cooking needs effectively.

Design and Build Quality: While budget-friendly, look for microwaves with sturdy construction and a design that complements your kitchen aesthetics. Pay attention to features like a durable exterior finish and easy-to-clean interiors for added convenience.

User-Friendly Controls: Opt for a microwave with intuitive controls and easy-to-read displays. Models with simple button layouts or dial controls are typically more user-friendly and easier to operate, especially for everyday tasks.

Ventilation and Safety Features: Ensure the microwave has adequate ventilation to dissipate heat effectively, especially if it's placed in a confined space. Look for safety features like child lock functions to prevent accidental operation, particularly if you have young children at home.

Energy Efficiency: While price-conscious, consider the energy efficiency of the microwave to minimize electricity consumption. Look for models with Energy Star certification or energy-saving modes to reduce long-term operating costs.

Reviews and Ratings: Before making a purchase, research user reviews and ratings to gauge the reliability and performance of the microwave. Pay attention to feedback regarding durability, cooking performance, and customer service to make an informed decision.

Warranty and Customer Support: Choose a microwave from a reputable manufacturer that offers a warranty and reliable customer support. This ensures you have recourse in case of any issues or malfunctions with the appliance.

Compare Prices and Features: Lastly, compare prices and features across different brands and models to find the best value for your budget. Don't hesitate to take advantage of sales, discounts, or promotional offers to maximize savings.

A 100 watt microwave would be exceptionally low-powered and likely not practical for most cooking needs. Typically, microwave ovens range from around 600 watts to 1200 watts or more. A 100 watt microwave would likely take significantly longer to cook or reheat food compared to higher wattage models and may not be able to cook certain types of food effectively.

How much is a normal microwave?

The cost of a normal microwave can vary depending on factors such as brand, size, features, and overall quality. Generally, you can find basic countertop microwaves starting from around $50 to $100. Mid-range models with more features and larger capacities typically range from $100 to $300. High-end microwaves with advanced features, such as convection cooking or sensor technology, can cost upwards of $300 to $500 or more.

How low can a microwave be?

Microwaves come in various wattages, and the lowest wattage available can vary. While it's uncommon to find microwaves with wattages lower than 600 watts, some smaller or specialty microwaves may have lower power ratings. However, extremely low wattage microwaves may not be practical for most cooking tasks due to significantly longer cooking times.

Is a 1000 watt microwave OK?

Yes, a 1000 watt microwave is generally considered a good option for most households. It offers sufficient cooking power to heat and cook food quickly and efficiently. A 1000 watt microwave can handle a wide range of cooking tasks, from reheating leftovers to cooking vegetables and even certain types of meats. It strikes a good balance between cooking speed and energy efficiency.

Is a 700 watt microwave weak?

A 700 watt microwave is on the lower end of the power spectrum but can still be adequate for basic cooking and reheating needs. While it may take longer to cook or reheat food compared to higher wattage models, a 700 watt microwave can still effectively heat most types of food. However, it may struggle with larger or denser items and may not provide the same level of performance as higher wattage microwaves for certain cooking tasks.

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