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Best Economical Microwave
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The microwave is a non-negotiable appliance in the modern kitchen, saving us precious time on everything from reheating leftovers to defrosting ingredients. While premium models offer countless features, finding the best economical microwave that delivers consistent results without breaking the bank can be a challenge.

The key is to look beyond the price tag and focus on true value—a blend of affordability, reliable performance, and essential functionality. Choosing wisely means investing in a durable appliance that will serve you well for years.

This guide is designed to cut through the noise, helping you identify the key markers of quality so you can confidently select the best economical microwave for your home and your budget.

Top 10 Best Economical Microwave Compared

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

🏆 BEST OVERALL Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

  • Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
  • User-friendly features like a mute option, memory function, and one-touch presets.
  • Includes a child safety lock for enhanced household safety.
  • Easy-to-clean surfaces and a dishwasher-safe turntable simplify maintenance.
★★★★
4.5/5 Check Price on Amazon
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft

🥈 2ND RUNNER UP TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft

  • Smart Sensor cooking automatically adjusts time for better results.
  • Mute function allows for silent operation, which is great for quiet households.
  • Ten distinct power levels offer precise control over cooking.
  • Convenient one-touch express cooking and multiple defrost options.
★★★★
4.8/5 Check Price on Amazon
Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor

� BEST VALUE Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor

  • Very spacious 2.2 Cu. Ft. interior fits large dishes and family-sized meals.
  • Powerful 1200W output provides fast and even heating.
  • Humidity sensor with presets helps prevent overcooking certain foods.
  • Dedicated auto-defrost programs for meat, poultry, and fish.
★★★★
4.5/5 Check Price on Amazon
COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off

COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off

  • Mute function to silence all operational beeps.
  • Enhanced two-step child lock for improved safety.
  • Convenient one-touch express and auto-cook options.
  • Energy-saving ECO mode reduces standby power.
★★★★
4.6/5 Check Price on Amazon
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6" Carousel Turntable
  • Convenient one-touch cooking with '+30 seconds' and 'Express Cook' keys.
  • Modern design with stainless steel finish and bright LED display/lighting.
  • Compact 0.9 cu. ft. size is ideal for smaller kitchens or apartments.
  • Includes useful features like Weight/Time Defrost and 10 power levels.
★★★★
4.8/5 Check Price on Amazon
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door

BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door

  • Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, offices, or dorm rooms.
  • User-friendly interface with a clear digital display and preset buttons.
  • Includes convenient features like 30-second express cooking and a child lock.
  • Removable glass turntable makes for easy cleaning.
★★★★
4.5/5 Check Price on Amazon
TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable

TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable

  • Large 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is suitable for families.
  • Powerful 1200-watt output for fast cooking.
  • Position-memory turntable returns to its original spot.
  • Sensor menus take the guesswork out of heating popular foods.
★★★★
4.6/5 Check Price on Amazon
TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology

TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology

  • Large interior capacity with a 13.6-inch turntable.
  • Inverter technology provides even cooking and defrosting.
  • Smart sensor menus simplify cooking for common food items.
  • Helpful features like a sound on/off option and quick start buttons.
★★★★
4.5/5 Check Price on Amazon
Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven

Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven

  • Exceptionally quiet operation with a soft-close door.
  • Compact footprint is ideal for smaller kitchens and apartments.
  • User-friendly shortcuts for common food and beverage items.
  • Heats and defrosts food evenly without overcooking.
★★★★
4.3/5 Check Price on Amazon
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven

  • Mute function to silence beeps and alarms.
  • 1000W power with 10 adjustable levels for precise cooking.
  • Useful memory function to store a custom setting.
  • Multiphase cooking allows for two consecutive cycles.
★★★★
4.3/5 Check Price on Amazon

Detailed Reviews of the Best Economical Microwave

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. - Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

This 700W digital microwave is a solid option for those with limited counter space or for use in a dorm or office. The controls are intuitive, featuring six common presets, ten distinct power levels, and a useful +30 seconds button for quick time adjustments. Standout features for a model of this size include the ability to mute the beeps and a memory function to save a custom cook setting.

The child lock is another practical safety addition for households with kids. While 700 watts is sufficient for most basic tasks like reheating leftovers or making popcorn, it may take slightly longer than more powerful units. The design is modern and unobtrusive, and the unit is easy to maintain with a wipe-clean exterior and a dishwasher-safe glass turntable.

The energy-saving Eco Mode is a nice final touch for a well-rounded, compact appliance.

Pros

  • Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
  • User-friendly features like a mute option, memory function, and one-touch presets.
  • Includes a child safety lock for enhanced household safety.
  • Easy-to-clean surfaces and a dishwasher-safe turntable simplify maintenance.
  • Digital controls with 10 power levels provide good cooking flexibility for its size.

Cons

  • The 700W power level means cooking and reheating may take longer than higher-wattage models.
  • Its smaller internal capacity might not accommodate very large dinner plates or cookware.

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft - Smart Sensor cooking automatically adjusts time for better results.

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft

This 1000-watt countertop microwave offers a solid range of features for everyday use. The standout capability is its Smart Sensor technology, which aims to take the guesswork out of cooking by automatically adjusting time and power based on food humidity. This, combined with 10 distinct power levels, provides a good degree of cooking flexibility.

Convenience features are well-represented, including six common food presets, one-touch start for 1-6 minutes, and defrost options by either weight or time. A particularly useful and often overlooked feature is the mute function, which allows you to silence the end-of-cycle beeps. The unit's size is standard for its capacity, with a 12.4-inch turntable that accommodates most dinner plates, but it's always best to measure your counter space beforehand.

Overall, it appears to be a capable and user-friendly appliance for a modern kitchen.

Pros

  • Smart Sensor cooking automatically adjusts time for better results.
  • Mute function allows for silent operation, which is great for quiet households.
  • Ten distinct power levels offer precise control over cooking.
  • Convenient one-touch express cooking and multiple defrost options.
  • Good capacity with a turntable large enough for standard dinner plates.

Cons

  • The 1600-watt input power is relatively high for its 1000-watt output.
  • Sensor cooking performance can sometimes vary depending on food type and placement.

Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor - Very spacious 2.2 Cu. Ft. interior fits large dishes and family-sized meals.

Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor

This 2.2 cubic foot countertop microwave is a solid option for larger households. With 1200 watts of power, it heats food quickly and its spacious interior can handle items like a 16-inch pizza, which is a significant advantage for family meals. The built-in humidity sensor is a helpful feature, designed to automatically adjust cooking time for its six preset menus to avoid overcooking.

Daily tasks are simplified with one-touch options for common items like beverages, bacon, and oatmeal. The auto-defrost function, with specific programs for different types of meat, is also quite effective at achieving a natural thaw. Additional conveniences such as the energy-saving eco mode, the ability to turn the sound off, and a child safety lock make it a well-rounded and user-friendly appliance for a busy kitchen.

It performs its core functions well and includes the key features expected in a modern microwave.

Pros

  • Very spacious 2.2 Cu. Ft. interior fits large dishes and family-sized meals.
  • Powerful 1200W output provides fast and even heating.
  • Humidity sensor with presets helps prevent overcooking certain foods.
  • Dedicated auto-defrost programs for meat, poultry, and fish.
  • Includes useful features like a child lock and a sound on/off option.

Cons

  • The large capacity results in a significant physical footprint, requiring ample counter space.
  • Features a somewhat limited number of six pre-programmed auto-cook menus.

COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off - Mute function to silence all operational beeps.

COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off

This microwave offers a solid range of standard features complemented by a few thoughtful additions. The one-touch express cooking and various auto-cook presets for items like popcorn and pizza perform as expected, making daily use straightforward and efficient. What really stands out are the quality-of-life features.

The ability to completely mute all beeps is a fantastic option for those sensitive to noise or for late-night use. For households with children, the two-step child lock provides an essential layer of safety and peace of mind. The ECO mode is another practical feature for anyone looking to reduce standby power consumption.

While it doesn't have high-end capabilities, it reliably handles all the fundamental tasks of reheating, defrosting, and simple cooking. It's a well-rounded appliance for general, everyday needs, focusing on safety and user convenience in its design.

Pros

  • Mute function to silence all operational beeps.
  • Enhanced two-step child lock for improved safety.
  • Convenient one-touch express and auto-cook options.
  • Energy-saving ECO mode reduces standby power.
  • Dual defrost settings for time or weight.

Cons

  • Lacks advanced cooking functions such as grilling or convection.
  • Included components are basic, with no extra accessories.

BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door - Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, offices, or dorm rooms.

BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door

This 700-watt microwave is a straightforward and compact appliance suitable for basic kitchen needs. Its dimensions make it a good fit for smaller spaces like apartments, dorm rooms, or office break rooms. The control panel is easy to navigate, featuring a large LED display and several pre-programmed buttons for common items like popcorn and beverages, which is a convenient touch.

The 30-second express cooking function is also useful for quick reheating. With 10 power levels, it offers decent versatility for its size. The 10-inch glass turntable is removable, which simplifies cleaning.

While 700 watts is on the lower side, it handles reheating, defrosting, and cooking smaller portions adequately. The inclusion of a child safety lock is a thoughtful feature for households with young children. Overall, it performs as expected for a microwave in its class, focusing on essential functions rather than advanced features.

Pros

  • Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, offices, or dorm rooms.
  • User-friendly interface with a clear digital display and preset buttons.
  • Includes convenient features like 30-second express cooking and a child lock.
  • Removable glass turntable makes for easy cleaning.
  • Simple push-button door release for easy access.

Cons

  • The 700-watt power level may result in longer cooking times compared to more powerful models.
  • The 10-inch turntable might be too small for larger dinner plates or cookware.

TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable - Large 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is suitable for families.

TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable

This 1.6 cu. ft. microwave offers a solid combination of power and family-friendly capacity.

At 1200 watts, it heats food quickly and evenly, and the 10 power levels provide good flexibility. The sensor menus for items like pizza and vegetables are a nice touch, simplifying cooking for common foods. One of the standout features is the position-memory turntable, which conveniently returns to its starting point, making it easier to grab mug handles.

Another thoughtful addition is the ability to mute the beeping sounds, which is great for quiet households. The black stainless steel finish gives it a modern look that should fit well in most kitchens. Its overall size is substantial, so it's best suited for countertops with ample space.

The inclusion of standard features like auto-defrost, a child lock, and a kitchen timer makes it a well-rounded appliance for everyday use.

Pros

  • Large 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is suitable for families.
  • Powerful 1200-watt output for fast cooking.
  • Position-memory turntable returns to its original spot.
  • Sensor menus take the guesswork out of heating popular foods.
  • Ability to turn off the sound/buzzer.
  • Modern black stainless-steel design.

Cons

  • The large external dimensions may not fit in smaller kitchens.
  • Black stainless-steel finishes can sometimes be prone to showing fingerprints.

TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology - Large interior capacity with a 13.6-inch turntable.

TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology

This Toshiba microwave offers a generous capacity, with its 13.6-inch turntable easily accommodating larger items like a 12-inch pizza. The standout feature is its Inverter technology, designed to provide more consistent, even heating and efficient defrosting compared to standard models. It comes with several user-friendly features, including six pre-programmed sensor menus for popular foods, which automatically adjust power and time for optimal results.

The one-touch quick start for 1 to 3 minutes is also very convenient for daily use. Additional thoughtful touches include the ability to mute the buzzer, an energy-saving Eco mode, and a child safety lock. The unit has a modern look with a stainless steel door and black body, but it's worth noting that the control panel is not backlit, which could be a factor in dimly lit kitchens.

Overall, it's a well-equipped and spacious microwave.

Pros

  • Large interior capacity with a 13.6-inch turntable.
  • Inverter technology provides even cooking and defrosting.
  • Smart sensor menus simplify cooking for common food items.
  • Helpful features like a sound on/off option and quick start buttons.
  • Sleek stainless steel and black design.
  • Includes child safety lock and a power-saving Eco mode.

Cons

  • The control panel is not backlit, making it difficult to use in low light.
  • Requires specific clearance behind the unit for ventilation.

Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven - Exceptionally quiet operation with a soft-close door.

Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven

The Breville Compact Wave Soft Close Microwave is a well-designed appliance for those with limited counter space. Its 0.9 cu.ft (25L) capacity is sufficient for daily reheating, defrosting, and cooking tasks for individuals or small families. The most notable feature is its quiet operation; the soft-close door is a premium touch that eliminates slamming, and the overall running noise is significantly reduced compared to standard models.

The one-touch shortcuts for items like popcorn and beverages are convenient for quick use. At 900 watts, it heats food evenly, and the dedicated reheat and defrost functions work effectively without drying out edges. Thoughtful additions like the child lock and mute button add to its user-friendly nature, making it a solid performer that emphasizes convenience and a quieter kitchen environment.

Pros

  • Exceptionally quiet operation with a soft-close door.
  • Compact footprint is ideal for smaller kitchens and apartments.
  • User-friendly shortcuts for common food and beverage items.
  • Heats and defrosts food evenly without overcooking.
  • Helpful features like a child lock and mute button.
  • Sleek and modern design.

Cons

  • The 900-watt power level may be slightly slower than larger, higher-wattage models.
  • Its compact capacity is not suitable for large family-size dishes.

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven - Mute function to silence beeps and alarms.

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven

This 1.3 Cu. Ft. Chefman microwave is a well-rounded appliance with a good set of features for its size.

At 1000 watts, it heats food quickly and evenly, and the 10 distinct power levels provide ample control for various tasks, from defrosting to full-power cooking. The six auto-cook menus are convenient for common items. What makes this model stand out are the thoughtful additions like the mute function, which is great for quiet households, and the memory feature for saving a frequently used custom cycle.

The multiphase cooking is another advanced option not always found at this price point. The stainless steel finish looks modern and sleek on the counter, though it does require regular cleaning to maintain its appearance. The +30 second button and child lock are practical, standard features that round out this capable and versatile microwave.

Pros

  • Mute function to silence beeps and alarms.
  • 1000W power with 10 adjustable levels for precise cooking.
  • Useful memory function to store a custom setting.
  • Multiphase cooking allows for two consecutive cycles.
  • Eco mode helps reduce standby power consumption.
  • Includes a child safety lock for added security.

Cons

  • The stainless steel exterior shows fingerprints easily, requiring frequent wiping.
  • Offers only six preset auto-cook menus, which is less than some competing models.

Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Economical Microwave

No buying guide available.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Economical Microwave

No FAQs available.

Conclusion: The Final Verdict

The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. this is a feature-rich and capable microwave, especially considering its compact footprint. it is highly recommended for students, single individuals, or as a secondary appliance for basic heating and defrosting tasks where space is a primary concern.