8 Best Microwave Under 300 Reviewed

Our pick: Sharp R-21LCFS Medium-Duty Commercial Microwave

The Sharp R-21LCFS Medium-Duty Commercial Microwave Oven offers a simple yet highly effective design ideal for light commercial use. Featuring a classic dial timer, it delivers precise cooking with easy-to-read LED indicators. Its stainless steel build not only provides a professional aesthetic but also ensures durability and ease of maintenance.

With a 1.0 cu. ft. interior capacity, the microwave accommodates various sizes of dishes, from single servings to larger platters. The auto-cancel timer and the user-friendly heating time guide add to its practicality, making it an excellent choice for businesses or individuals looking for reliable microwave performance.

Pros:

• Simple to operate with dial timer and LED indicators

• Spacious 1.0 cu. ft. interior

• Auto-cancel timer to conserve energy

• Easy to maintain with stainless steel exterior and interior

Cons:

• Limited functionality for larger or complex cooking tasks

• No advanced features like programmable presets

The Sharp R-21LCFS Microwave is an excellent choice for those seeking a straightforward, durable microwave with basic functions for light to medium-duty use. While it may lack some advanced features, its reliability, energy efficiency, and ease of use make it a solid investment for a commercial kitchen or home setup.

Also great: GE GCST16S1WTS Microwave Oven

The GE GCST16S1WTS Microwave Oven offers a strong combination of power and convenience in a sleek, compact design. With 1,150 watts of cooking power and a 1.6 cu. ft. capacity, this microwave is ideal for both small kitchens and dorm rooms, providing ample space without taking up too much room on the countertop. It features intuitive, one-touch controls, a child-lock function, and sensor cooking, ensuring ease of use while delivering great results.

Thanks to its versatile features, including weight and time defrost options and a rotating glass turntable, this microwave promises consistent, even cooking. Whether you're reheating leftovers or preparing meals, it combines efficiency with user-friendly technology.

Pros:

• Powerful 1,150 watts for effective cooking

• 1.6 cu. ft. capacity for larger items

• Sensor cooking controls for automatic adjustments

• Two-step child-lock feature for safety

Cons:

• No advanced settings for more complex cooking tasks

• Slightly bulky for very small kitchens

The GE GCST16S1WTS Microwave Oven is a practical and powerful appliance that fits well in smaller spaces while providing reliable cooking performance. Its ease of use, safety features, and efficient cooking capabilities make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a versatile microwave.

Also great: Impecca OM-1600K 1.6 cu. ft. Over-the-Range

The Impecca OM-1600K 1.6 cu. ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven combines efficiency and convenience in a sleek, space-saving design. With 1,000 watts of power and a range of handy features, it offers quick cooking with presets for popular dishes and the ability to defrost or cook by weight. This microwave also doubles as a range hood, with a two-speed vent fan to remove smoke, steam, and odors, making it an excellent addition to any kitchen.

Its large capacity and touchpad controls ensure ease of use, while the surface light and child lock add practicality and safety. The microwave’s digital display and kitchen timer provide additional conveniences for daily tasks, making it a solid choice for anyone looking for an all-in-one microwave solution.

Pros:

• 1.6 cu. ft. capacity for larger meals

• 1,000 watts of power for efficient cooking

• Two-speed vent system for ventilation

• Convenient one-touch cooking controls and presets

Cons:

• Can be bulky for small kitchens or tight spaces

• Relatively heavy at 55 lbs, making installation more challenging

The Impecca OM-1600K Over-the-Range Microwave offers a range of useful features, including powerful ventilation, ample cooking space, and convenient cooking controls. Its versatile design and easy-to-use features make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable, all-in-one microwave oven that enhances kitchen functionality.

Source: Amazon

When shopping for a microwave under $300, you have a range of options that balance affordability with enhanced features. Here’s what to consider:

1. Size and Capacity: Measure your countertop or designated microwave space to ensure the unit fits comfortably. Look for models with an internal capacity that suits your cooking needs, typically ranging from 1.0 to 1.5 cubic feet.

2. Cooking Power: Microwaves in this price range usually range from 900 to 1200 watts. Higher wattage ensures faster cooking times and more even heating. Choose a model with sufficient power for your cooking preferences.

3. Cooking Features: Consider the cooking functions that best suit your needs. Look for preset cooking programs, sensor cooking technology for automatic adjustments, and options like convection cooking or grilling for versatility in meal preparation.

4. Design and Build Quality: Opt for a microwave with durable construction. Stainless steel exteriors are stylish and easy to clean, while interiors with ceramic or enamel coatings are resistant to stains and easy to wipe down.

5. Ease of Use: User-friendly controls are essential for convenient operation. Look for models with intuitive buttons, digital displays, and easy-to-navigate menus for setting cooking times and power levels.

6. Safety Features: Check for safety features such as child lockouts to prevent unintended use, which is especially important in households with children.

7. Brand Reputation and Reviews: Research brands known for producing reliable kitchen appliances within your budget. Reading customer reviews can provide insights into performance, durability, and customer satisfaction.

8. Warranty and Support: Consider the warranty coverage offered by the manufacturer. A longer warranty period indicates confidence in the product’s durability. Good customer support ensures assistance if you encounter any issues.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can find a microwave under $300 that not only meets your cooking requirements but also offers durability, ease of use, and advanced features for enhanced kitchen convenience.

The price of a microwave can vary widely depending on factors such as brand, size, features, and quality. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $300 for a microwave oven. Basic countertop models with fewer features tend to be on the lower end of the price spectrum, while larger, more advanced models with features like convection cooking or sensor technology can be pricier.

How long do cheap microwaves last?

The lifespan of a cheap microwave can vary depending on factors such as usage, maintenance, and build quality. On average, a cheaper microwave might last anywhere from 5 to 10 years with proper care. However, it's essential to note that cheaper models may have a shorter lifespan compared to higher-end models due to differences in materials and construction.

Do mini microwaves exist?

Yes, mini microwave­s are available. These­ compact appliances are smaller ve­rsions designed for limited living are­as like dorms, RVs, or cramped offices. Compare­d to standard models, mini microwaves have le­ss capacity but offer similar basic heating and cooking functions.

Is cooking with a microwave an affordable­ method?

Using a microwave can be cost-e­ffective compared to othe­r cooking techniques. These­ energy-efficie­nt appliances employ ele­ctromagnetic radiation to rapidly heat food, reducing utility e­xpenses. Unlike conve­ntional ovens or stovetops, microwaves consume­ less energy. Additionally, microwave­ cooking saves time and require­s fewer pots and pans, lowering ove­rall cooking costs.

Do microwaves offer cost savings over othe­r cooking appliances?

Regarding operational e­xpenses, microwaves te­nd to be more economical than traditional ove­ns or stovetops. As previously mentione­d, these ene­rgy-efficient appliances consume­ less electricity than large­r cooking equipment. Moreove­r, microwave cooking's faster pace contribute­s to energy savings. Howeve­r, the initial microwave purchase price­ may vary based on features and mode­l, so consider upfront costs and long-term savings when comparing to othe­r cooking appliances.

Read More:

• 10 The Best Microwave Under 200, Our Top Picks
• Top 10 Best Microwave Under 150
• The 7 Best Microwave Under 80, Expert Picks
• Unveiling 10 The Best Microwave With Convection And Grill
• The Best Small Countertop Microwave For Compact Kitchens

In conclusion, finding the best microwave under $300 doesn't mean compromising on quality or performance. The models we've reviewed offer a perfect balance of features, durability, and affordability, making them great options for any home. Whether you're looking for a sleek design, smart features, or fast cooking capabilities, these microwaves are sure to meet your needs without breaking the bank. When shopping for a microwave in this price range, it's essential to consider factors like capacity, power, and user-friendly functions. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your specific preferences and cooking habits, but with these top picks, you're guaranteed a solid purchase that delivers great value for the price.