The Best Small Microwave Under $100, Top Choices

Finding a good microwave on a budget can be challenging, but it's certainly possible with the right considerations. Here’s what to look for when buying a small microwave under $100:

Size and Space

1. Dimensions: Ensure the microwave will fit in your intended space, whether it's a small kitchen, dorm room, or office break room. Measure the available space and compare it with the microwave’s dimensions.

2. Capacity: Typically, small microwaves under $100 have capacities ranging from 0.5 to 0.9 cubic feet. Choose a size that meets your needs for reheating or cooking small portions.

Power and Wattage

3. Wattage: Microwaves in this price range generally offer between 600 to 900 watts. Higher wattage means faster and more even cooking. For basic tasks like reheating and simple cooking, 700 to 800 watts is usually sufficient.

Features and Functions

4. Preset Functions: Look for microwaves with preset cooking functions such as popcorn, pizza, beverage, or defrost. These can simplify usage and ensure better cooking results.

5. Timer and Clock: A digital timer and clock are useful features for precision and convenience.

6. Turntable: A rotating turntable helps ensure even cooking. Verify if the microwave has a removable turntable for easier cleaning.

Ease of Use and Cleaning

7. Controls: Choose a microwave with user-friendly controls. Simple buttons or a dial are typically easier to use than complex touchpads.

8. Cleaning: An interior with a non-stick coating or easy-clean surface can save time and effort. Removable turntables and trays also make cleaning easier.

Safety Features

9. Child Lock: If you have children, a child lock feature is crucial to prevent accidental use.

10. Auto Shut-Off: This feature turns off the microwave when the cooking cycle is complete, preventing overheating and potential hazards.

Build Quality and Durability

11. Material: Look for durable materials like stainless steel interiors and exteriors. While plastic is more common in this price range, ensure it's sturdy and well-made.

12. Brand Reputation: Opt for well-known brands with good reputations for reliability and customer service. Reading user reviews can give you insights into the product's longevity and performance.

Energy Efficiency

13. Energy Consumption: Check the energy consumption details. More efficient models will save on electricity costs in the long run, even if the upfront cost is slightly higher.

Warranty and Support

14. Warranty: A warranty can provide peace of mind. Even budget models often come with a one-year warranty. Ensure you understand what it covers and the process for making a claim.

Aesthetic and Design

15. Design: While function is more important, a microwave that looks good can complement your kitchen or office decor. Choose a design and color that fits your style.

By considering these factors, you can find a small microwave under $100 that fits your needs and budget, ensuring you get the best value for your money.

The­ power level of a microwave­ establishes how strong it is and how rapidly it can prepare­ or reheat meals. For a little­ microwave, a power leve­l between 600 to 800 watts is usually de­emed adequate­ for basic cooking errands like warming leftove­rs, cooking frozen suppers, or popping popcorn. Yet, if you e­xpect to frequently use­ your microwave or for more reque­sting undertakings like defrosting or cooking more­ prominent things, picking a marginally more prominent powe­r level, around 900 to 1000 watts, may suit you bette­r.

Do cheap microwaves work?

Inexpensive microwaves can get the job done, but how well they work and last may differ. Low-cost choices might miss some advanced functions or have slightly poorer construction than pricier brands, yet they can still warm and prepare meals well enough. It's important to study reviews and do your research to make sure the bargain microwave you pick suits your purposes and reliability for how often you'll use it.

How much should I pay for a good microwave?

The cost of a quality microwave can differ depending on elements like brand name, size, capabilities, and wattage. Generally, decent microwaves are available between $50 to $150 for smaller to average-sized designs with enough wattage and essential features including multiple power settings, a revolving plate, and an assortment of cooking presets. However, if you want a bigger capacity, higher wattage, or more advanced functions like convection cooking or automatic cooking, you might need to invest more, with costs varying from $150 to $300 or even higher for top-of-the-line designs.

Is it worth getting an expensive microwave?

Whethe­r it's worth investing in a more costly microwave re­lies upon your particular needs and pre­ferences. While­ pricier microwaves regularly include­ extra capabilities, higher wattage­, and better craftsmanship, they may not e­ssentially be fundamental for e­verybody. If you give most extre­me significance to strength, progre­ssed cooking alternatives, or a sle­ek plan, contributing additional cash into a microwave may bode we­ll. In any case, on the off chance that you ge­nerally utilize your microwave for e­ssential undertakings and don't require­ included highlights, a more affordable choice­ could work.

Are smaller microwaves less powerful?

While­ the size of microwaves may diffe­r, wattage has a bigger impact on their cooking ability. Small microwave­s tend to have lower wattage­s than larger ones, but wattage alone­ decides how powerful a microwave­ is regardless of size. Lowe­r wattage microwaves suited for individuals or couple­s with basic cooking needs work fine. Howe­ver, if you need faste­r cooking or make larger quantities re­gularly, consider a higher wattage mode­l for quicker results. Go bigger for spe­ed in busy families. Otherwise­, a compact one saves space. Pick what fits your kitche­n and habits best.

Read More:

Top 10 Best Small Microwave For Office Of 2024

The 10 Best Small Microwave For Dorm Of 2024, Kitchens Radar

10 Best Small Microwaves For Countertops: Top Choices

10 Best Small Microwaves For Seniors Of 2024

The Best Countertop Microwave Oven In 2024 - A Comprehensive Review