In the world of kitchen appliances, the humble microwave is an indispensable tool. However, finding a model that offers both performance and affordability can be a significant challenge.
This is precisely why savvy shoppers increasingly turn to community-driven platforms to find the best cheap microwave reddit has vetted. These forums provide unfiltered insights into long-term durability and real-world usability, cutting through marketing noise.
This guide synthesizes those countless threads and user experiences into a definitive resource, helping you confidently select an appliance that delivers exceptional value. Our goal is to ensure your quest for the best cheap microwave reddit users trust ends in a smart, satisfying purchase you can rely on for years to come.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Cheap Microwave Reddit Compared

🏆 BEST OVERALL Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts
- Powerful 1000-watt output with 10 adjustable power levels.
- Compact 1.1 cu ft size is ideal for small kitchens and offices.
- Includes six convenient one-touch cooking presets.
- Versatile defrosting options by either weight or time.

� BEST VALUE COMFEE' Retro Small Microwave Oven With Compact Size
- Compact footprint is ideal for small countertops and spaces.
- Intuitive controls with a clear digital display and useful pre-programmed buttons.
- Includes a child safety lock for added security in family homes.
- Ten adjustable power levels offer good cooking flexibility.

FRIGIDAIRE RMW1132-RED 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W Microwave
- Sufficient 1000W power for fast heating.
- Good mid-size capacity (1.1 cu ft) for most dishes.
- 10 power levels provide versatile cooking control.
- Includes a child lock safety feature for peace of mind.

Emerson MWR7020RD Compact Countertop Microwave Oven with Button Control
- Stylish retro design adds a unique aesthetic to the kitchen.
- Multiple power levels and 8 presets offer good cooking versatility.
- Simple and intuitive controls with a clear LED display.
- Convenient one-touch express and defrost functions.

Nostalgia Retro Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu Ft
- Compact size is ideal for limited counter space.
- Ten power levels provide versatile cooking control.
- Auto-cook presets and express cooking are convenient time-savers.
- Rotating turntable ensures food is heated evenly.

COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
- Mute function allows for quiet operation.
- User-friendly with one-touch express cooking options.
- Includes a child safety lock for enhanced security.
- Energy-saving Eco mode helps reduce standby power usage.

TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
- Compact size is ideal for kitchens with limited counter space.
- Useful mute function to silence beeping sounds.
- Includes a two-step child safety lock for added security.
- Convenient one-touch start and multiple preset cooking menus.

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
- Smart Sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power.
- Convenient one-touch start for 1-6 minute intervals.
- Mute option to silence buzzer sounds.
- 1000 watts provides sufficient power for effective cooking.

Nostalgia Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven
- Stylish retro design with chrome accents.
- Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
- Features 12 convenient pre-programmed cooking settings.
- Simple controls and a clear, easy-to-read digital display.
Detailed Reviews of the Best Cheap Microwave Reddit
Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts - Powerful 1000-watt output with 10 adjustable power levels.

This Farberware microwave is a capable and practical option for everyday use, especially in smaller living spaces. With 1000 watts of power and ten adjustable levels, it provides enough flexibility for most cooking and reheating tasks. The 1.1 cubic foot capacity is well-suited for apartments, dorm rooms, or office kitchens.
The six one-touch cooking presets for items like popcorn, potato, and pizza are convenient for quick meals, and the dual defrost options (by weight or time) add to its functionality. It includes all the standard features you would expect, such as a clear LED display with a clock and kitchen timer, an interior light, and a child safety lock. While it doesn't boast high-end features, it's a solid performer that reliably handles the essentials of microwave cooking, from reheating leftovers to preparing simple dishes.
The easy-to-clean surfaces are an added practical benefit for regular maintenance.
Pros
- Powerful 1000-watt output with 10 adjustable power levels.
- Compact 1.1 cu ft size is ideal for small kitchens and offices.
- Includes six convenient one-touch cooking presets.
- Versatile defrosting options by either weight or time.
- Equipped with useful features like a child lock and a clear LED display.
Cons
- The 1.1 cu ft capacity might be too small for larger plates or family-sized meals.
- Lacks advanced features like sensor cooking or convection capabilities.
FRIGIDAIRE EMW953RED Microwave Oven -

Feature: Low Profile Microwave Oven – Designed for dorms, small apartments, and space-saving kitchen use this countertop microwave is ideal for meat, popcorn, and more.
Pros
Cons
COMFEE' Retro Small Microwave Oven With Compact Size - Compact footprint is ideal for small countertops and spaces.

This 700-watt microwave is a straightforward and compact appliance, well-suited for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or office breakrooms. It covers all the essential bases with its 10 power settings and several handy pre-programmed buttons for common items like popcorn, potatoes, and beverages. The 30-second express cooking button is a convenient feature for quick reheating.
The large LED digital display is clear and the control panel is intuitive to navigate. While its 700-watt output means it might take a bit longer to heat food compared to more powerful models, it performs reliably for everyday tasks. The interior is large enough for a standard dinner plate, thanks to the 10-inch turntable, and the inclusion of a child safety lock provides peace of mind for families.
It's a solid, no-frills option for basic microwave needs.
Pros
- Compact footprint is ideal for small countertops and spaces.
- Intuitive controls with a clear digital display and useful pre-programmed buttons.
- Includes a child safety lock for added security in family homes.
- Ten adjustable power levels offer good cooking flexibility.
- Convenient 30-second express cook function for quick reheating.
Cons
- At 700 watts, it may heat or cook food more slowly than higher-powered models.
- The smaller interior and 10-inch turntable may not accommodate larger dishes or cookware.
FRIGIDAIRE RMW1132-RED 1.1 cu. ft. 1000W Microwave - Sufficient 1000W power for fast heating.

This 1.1 cu ft microwave has been a solid addition to our kitchen. At 1000 watts, it has enough power for quick and even heating, from reheating leftovers to defrosting meats. The 10 power levels offer good control, which is a step up from more basic models and useful for delicate tasks like melting butter without splattering.
The electronic touchpad is straightforward and responsive, and the standard glass turntable is easy to remove and clean. The red color is quite vibrant and adds a nice pop of color, so be sure it fits your decor. A particularly useful feature for households with young children is the child lock, providing essential peace of mind.
While it doesn't have a lot of advanced smart features, it excels at being a reliable, functional, and user-friendly appliance for everyday microwave tasks. It's a capable machine that handles the fundamentals very well.
Pros
- Sufficient 1000W power for fast heating.
- Good mid-size capacity (1.1 cu ft) for most dishes.
- 10 power levels provide versatile cooking control.
- Includes a child lock safety feature for peace of mind.
- Simple electronic touchpad is easy to operate.
- Vibrant red color adds a stylish touch to the kitchen.
Cons
- Lacks advanced features like sensor cooking or smart functions.
- The bright color might not suit all kitchen aesthetics.
Nostalgia Retro Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu Ft - Compact size is ideal for limited counter space.

This 0.7 cu. ft. microwave is a solid choice for basic, everyday use in smaller spaces like dorm rooms, office breakrooms, or apartments.
At 700 watts, it effectively handles reheating leftovers, defrosting small items, and cooking simple meals. The rotating glass turntable does its job well, ensuring that food is heated evenly without cold spots. I found the controls to be intuitive, and the eight auto-cook programs are a convenient touch for common items like popcorn or potatoes.
The ten distinct power levels also offer good flexibility, allowing for more delicate tasks like melting butter without scorching it. While it won't cook as quickly as a larger, more powerful unit, it performs reliably for its size and wattage. It's a functional and straightforward appliance that gets the job done without any unnecessary complications, fitting a standard dinner plate comfortably.
Pros
- Compact size is ideal for limited counter space.
- Ten power levels provide versatile cooking control.
- Auto-cook presets and express cooking are convenient time-savers.
- Rotating turntable ensures food is heated evenly.
- Simple and easy-to-use interface.
Cons
- The 700-watt power level may heat food slower than higher-wattage models.
- Small interior capacity is not suitable for large family-sized dishes.
COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off - Mute function allows for quiet operation.

This microwave offers a solid range of features for its likely compact size. The one-touch express cooking for 1-6 minutes and the +30 seconds button are convenient for everyday use, handling reheating and quick meals efficiently. The pre-programmed settings for items like popcorn and beverages work as expected.
A standout feature is the mute function, which is excellent for late-night use or open-concept living spaces without disturbing others. The control panel is intuitive and the digital display is bright and easy to read. The Eco mode is a thoughtful addition for reducing standby power consumption, and the child lock provides peace of mind for families.
While the 10-inch turntable is standard for smaller models, it's something to consider based on your dishware. Overall, it's a capable and user-friendly appliance for daily reheating and defrosting tasks.
Pros
- Mute function allows for quiet operation.
- User-friendly with one-touch express cooking options.
- Includes a child safety lock for enhanced security.
- Energy-saving Eco mode helps reduce standby power usage.
- Clear digital display and intuitive control panel.
- Multiple auto-cook presets for common foods.
Cons
- The 10-inch turntable size may be too small for larger dinner plates or cookware.
- Limited one-year warranty is standard but not exceptional.
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft - Smart Sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power.

This 1000-watt countertop microwave offers a solid range of features for everyday kitchen tasks. The Smart Sensor technology is a standout, effectively adjusting cooking times for things like reheating leftovers, which helps prevent over or undercooking. The size is fairly standard, with its 12.4-inch turntable accommodating a normal dinner plate without issue.
For quick jobs, the one-touch start for 1-6 minutes is incredibly convenient. The interface is straightforward, with six common presets and ten distinct power levels providing good versatility for everything from defrosting to boiling water. A particularly nice touch is the mute function, which allows you to silence the end-of-cycle beeps—a great feature for households where noise is a concern.
Overall, it's a capable and well-equipped appliance that performs its core functions reliably while adding some modern conveniences that enhance the user experience.
Pros
- Smart Sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power.
- Convenient one-touch start for 1-6 minute intervals.
- Mute option to silence buzzer sounds.
- 1000 watts provides sufficient power for effective cooking.
- Versatile with 10 power levels and multiple presets.
Cons
- The external dimensions might be a bit large for very small kitchens or limited counter space.
- With numerous features, the control panel may have a slight learning curve initially.
Nostalgia Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven - Stylish retro design with chrome accents.

This 0.7 cubic foot microwave is a solid choice for those with limited counter space or basic reheating needs. At 700 watts, it has sufficient power for everyday tasks, though it may require slightly longer cooking times compared to larger, more powerful units. The 12 pre-programmed cooking settings for items like popcorn, pizza, and potatoes are a convenient and practical feature.
The control panel is intuitive, and the digital LED display is bright and easy to read. A key feature is its distinctive retro aesthetic, with a chrome door handle and accents that add a unique flair to a kitchen. The rotating glass carousel functions as expected, helping to ensure food is heated evenly.
While its compact size is a major benefit for small apartments or dorm rooms, be mindful that it won't accommodate very large dinner plates or casserole dishes. It's a functional and stylish appliance for light-duty use.
Pros
- Stylish retro design with chrome accents.
- Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
- Features 12 convenient pre-programmed cooking settings.
- Simple controls and a clear, easy-to-read digital display.
- Rotating glass carousel promotes even heating.
Cons
- At 700 watts, cooking power is on the lower side, potentially increasing heating times.
- The 0.7 cubic foot interior has limited capacity for larger plates or dishes.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Cheap Microwave Reddit
Power and Performance
When searching for a microwave, wattage is a key indicator of cooking speed and power. Many recommended models, like the Farberware and FRIGIDAIRE RMW1132-RED, offer 1000 watts, which is sufficient for fast and even heating. Also, look for multiple adjustable power levels—most options provide 10 or 11. This versatility allows you to do everything from gently melting butter to thoroughly cooking a meal, giving you precise control over the heating process for better results every time.
Size and Capacity
The physical footprint of a microwave is a crucial consideration, especially for those with limited counter space. Models are often categorized by their internal capacity, measured in cubic feet (cu ft). Compact options like the 0.7 cu ft Nostalgia or the 1.1 cu ft Farberware are ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices. Before buying, measure your available space and consider the size of the dishes you typically use to ensure a good fit for both your counter and your cookware.
Key Features and Controls
Modern budget-friendly microwaves come packed with convenient features. Look for one-touch cooking presets for common items like popcorn or potatoes, which save you from guessing the time. Many models, including those from COMFEE and TOSHIBA, offer a mute function to silence beeps. A child safety lock is a vital feature for families, and versatile defrost options (by weight or time) add flexibility. An intuitive control panel with a clear LED display, like those found on most listed products, makes daily operation simple and hassle-free.
Design and Aesthetics
While functionality is paramount, the look of your microwave can complement your kitchen's style. For a unique, vintage look, consider retro models from brands like Nostalgia, Emerson, or COMFEE', which often feature rounded edges and chrome accents. For a more contemporary feel, standard designs from Farberware or TOSHIBA in black, white, or stainless steel will blend in seamlessly. Some models, like the FRIGIDAIRE, even come in vibrant colors like red to add a stylish pop to your decor.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Cheap Microwave Reddit
What wattage is best for a budget-friendly microwave?
For those seeking the best cheap microwave reddit users recommend, a 1000-watt model like the Farberware or TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS provides an excellent balance of power and efficiency for quick heating. However, models with slightly lower wattage, often found in more compact units, are still perfectly capable of handling everyday tasks like reheating leftovers, defrosting, and making popcorn. The key is to match the power to your primary cooking needs; 1000 watts is a great all-around benchmark for performance.
How important is the size and capacity?
Size is extremely important, especially if you have a small kitchen, dorm, or office. The product information highlights several compact options, from 0.7 to 1.1 cubic feet, designed specifically for limited counter space. When choosing the best cheap microwave reddit has to offer, measure your available area first. Also, consider the size of your typical dinner plates or containers to ensure they will fit comfortably on the turntable for even cooking and hassle-free use.
Are there microwaves that can operate silently?
Yes, several models now include a mute function to eliminate beeping
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts this is a solid, no-frills microwave that effectively covers all the essential heating and defrosting functions. it is highly recommended for individuals, students, or anyone needing a reliable and compact appliance for a smaller space.