Looking for a microwave that won’t break the bank but still gets the job done? You’re not alone. With so many budget-friendly options out there, it’s tough to know which one actually delivers on performance, durability, and value. We’ve tested and compared the top affordable microwaves so you don’t have to waste time or money. From compact models for small kitchens to family-sized powerhouses, we’ll help you find the **best microwave oven for cheap**—without sacrificing quality. Let’s find your perfect match.
- Best for eco quiet cook: COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
- Best for preprogrammed power: BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
- Best for memory eco cook: Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
- Best for stainless power: BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
- Best for compact auto menu: TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
- Best for spacious compact: GE Compact Countertop Microwave Oven
- Best for led compact power: Countertop Microwave Ovens 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700 Watts Microwave Oven With LED Lighting
- Best for stainless preprogrammed: BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
- Best for auto-cook pro: Farberware 0.9 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 900W Power
- Best for sensor smart cook: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor
Product Comparison: Best Microwave Oven For Cheap
COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7 Cu Ft/700W, Pearl White
- Two-Step Child Lock Feature: For extra protection and to prevent misuse, all microwave oven manufacturers are asked to follow new safety standard and add a 2-step child lock function
- Mute Function: Turn off all the microwave beeps by pressing the sound on/off button for 3 seconds, which will bring you quieter cooking time
- Easy one-touch express cooking function with 1-6 minutes and +30 seconds functions, and two defrost settings (by weight or by time). With easy auto-cook functions: Popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen veggie, beverage, reheat
- Energy saving Eco mode: Minimize 50% standby power by turning on ECO mode
- Included components: 1 microwave oven, 1 manual instruction book.
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.Voltage : 110 Volts.Rated Input Power(Microwave):1050W
- 700 Watts with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 Seconds Express Cooking
- Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 10” glass turntable
- Push-button door release for easy access
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”
- UL approved. One year limited
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button - Black
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 700W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button.
- MEMORY FUNCTION: Program frequently used countertop microwaves functions into the control panel for one-touch microwave food. All your daily favorites are easy to set up and start microwaving.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally, and you can disable the microwave control panel using the Lock Mode.
- MUTE OPTION: Silence this counter top microwave with the Audio Button, turning off any annoying beeps if you’re trying to stay quiet or not wake up your kids.
- MODERN DESIGN: This microwave countertop design fits in well alongside your other kitchen appliances. Its compact frame and sleek, black finish blend in well with any home décor. Plus, you can save power and disable the display when not in use with Eco Mode.
- EASY TO CLEAN: Don’t worry about grease or scuffs; this black microwave exterior is durable and wipes clean with a damp towel. Additionally, the glass turntable is top-rack dishwasher safe.
- TRUSTED QUALITY: cETL approved with advanced safety technology for long-lasting durability and a 1-year assurance provided by Chefman. 700W/120V-RJ55-7-V2
BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 1000W, 1.1cu.ft, Black & Stainless Steel, 1.1 Cu.ft
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.Frequency : 60 Hz
- 1000 Watts Output with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 seconds express cooking, Input power: 1600W
- Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 12.4” glass turntable
- Push-button door release for easy access
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 20.6” x 16.5” x 11.8”; Color of door frame is stainless steel, enclosure is black
TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, Perfect for Apartment, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Black Stainless Steel
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- Microwave output power 900 watts, input power 1400 watts. External dimensions 18.7x 14.7x 10.7 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 12.1 x 10.9 x 7.6 inches (WxDxH); includes 10.6-inch glass turntable.
- 6 Preset Menus: This compact microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potato and more.
- 11 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
- Mute Mode: If you wish to silence the beeping sound that signals the end of cooking, please long press on the button "8" For 3-5 seconds. The buzzer is automatically switched off after a long beep.
GE Compact Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.1 Cubic Ft., 950w Capacity, 6 Auto Cook Settings, Child-Lock Technology, Dorm Room, Apartment, Stainless Steel
- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This mandatory feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, with the option to deactivate it if not needed.
- SPACE-SAVING EXTERIOR, SPACIOUS INTERIOR: 950 watts of power and 1.1 cu. ft. inside allow for effective, efficient cooking while not taking up valuable kitchen space; glass turntable rotates throughout cycles for optimum cooking
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: Simple, one-touch operation with convenience cooking controls; kitchen timer, child lock controls and cooking complete alarms add convenience
- WEIGHT & TIME DEFROST - Simply enter the weight of the food, and the oven automatically sets the optimal defrosting time and power level or set your desired time for defrosting
- EASY SET UP: Freestanding microwave fits easily on countertop or open shelf, with 39 power cord
Countertop Microwave Ovens 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700 Watts Microwave Oven With LED Lighting,Turntable and Child Lock,Compact Microwave Perfect for Apartments and Dorms,Easy Clean Interior, Black
- Countertop Microwave Oven: Prepare quick and easy meals in a snap with our powerful microwave ovens. It packs 700 of output power and features a range of settings for press-and-go speed
- Powerful Microwave Oven: This black microwave has 10 power levels with multi-stage cooking. You can fully customize your cooking with 6 one-touch options, including popcorn, potato, and pizza. Defrost by weight or by time settings to make quick work
- Compact Microwave: Measuring 0.7 cu ft, this small microwave is the ideal small-space solution that offers full-sized cooking in a compact space
- Microwave Oven with All You Need: Features a LED display, timer/clock,that lets you easily keep track of time. Interior lighting, 9.6" glass turntable for clear dish monitoring, and a child safety lock for added security
- Convenient Microwave: Our countertop microwave ovens features an easy-to-clean interior. Perfect for busy nights and memorable family feasts, crafting meals that create lasting memories
BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, Stainless Steel, 0.9 Cu Ft
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate
- 900 Watts with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 seconds express cooking
- Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 10.6” glass turntable
- Push-button door release for easy access
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 18.6” x 13.6” x 10.7”, Internal dimensions: 12.36” x 13.66” x 8.70” (W x D x H); Color of door frame is stainless steel, enclosure is black
Farberware 0.9 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 900W Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, and Safety Lock – White
- 0.9 CU. FT. CAPACITY: Compact microwave ideal for small kitchens, dorms, RVs, and office breakrooms.
- 900-WATT POWER: Delivers fast, efficient cooking, reheating, and defrosting for everyday meals and snacks.
- 10 POWER LEVELS: Adjust intensity for precision heating and cooking control.
- 8 AUTO-COOK SETTINGS: One-touch menus for popcorn, pizza, potato, frozen vegetables, fresh vegetables, beverages, meat, and bread.
- EXPRESS COOK & +30 SEC BUTTON: Quickly start cooking or add time with the press of a button.
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor, 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior, 1000W, Silver
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass turntable.
- Smart Sensor Technology for Optimal Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. Say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked dishes.
- 6 Preset Menus: This countertop microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like pizza, veggle, sensor reheat and more.
- 10 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What key features should I look for in an affordable countertop microwave?
Focus on power wattage, capacity, and preset cooking programs that match your typical meals. A child lock and mute function add safety and convenience without raising the price. Also check for an easy‑to‑read digital display and a removable turntable for simple cleaning.
How does power output affect cooking performance in low‑cost models?
Higher wattage (900‑1000 W) cooks food faster and more evenly, which is useful for frozen meals and popcorn. Models like the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 and Toshiba ML‑EM09PA provide 900 W or more, while 700 W units are adequate for reheating and simple cooking. Balance wattage with your budget and countertop space.
Which microwave offers the best value for a small kitchen or dorm room?
The Chefman Countertop Microwave (0.7 cu ft, 700 W) and the Toshiba ML‑EM09PA (0.7 cu ft, 900 W) both fit tight spaces and include multiple preset menus. The Chefman adds a memory function for quick one‑touch cooking, while the Toshiba provides a two‑step child lock for added safety. Both are priced competitively for budget‑conscious shoppers.
Are preset cooking menus worth paying extra for?
Presets simplify cooking popular items like popcorn, pizza, and potatoes, reducing guesswork and cooking time. Most budget models, including the COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM and BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11, include these presets at no extra cost. If you frequently prepare the same foods, presets can improve convenience without a price premium.
How important is an eco or energy‑saving mode in a cheap microwave?
Eco mode reduces standby power consumption, which can lower your electricity bill over time. The COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM offers an Eco mode that cuts standby use by up to 50 %. While the savings are modest, the feature adds value for environmentally conscious buyers.
What should I consider about interior size versus external dimensions?
A larger internal cavity lets you fit bigger dishes, but it also means a bulkier exterior. The GE Compact (1.1 cu ft) provides more cooking space while still fitting on a standard countertop, whereas the 0.7 cu ft models are more compact for limited areas. Match the internal capacity to the dishes you plan to cook and ensure the external size fits your kitchen layout.
Do child safety locks differ between budget microwaves?
Most inexpensive microwaves now include a two‑step child lock, which requires pressing a combination of buttons to open the door. Models like the Toshiba ML‑EM09PA and GE Compact feature this mandatory safety standard. While the functionality is similar, some units also allow the lock to be disabled for easier adult access.
Which microwave provides the best balance of power, features, and price?
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 offers 1050 W power, a variety of preset buttons, a large LED display, and a push‑button door release at a price comparable to other budget options. It combines strong cooking performance with user‑friendly controls, making it a solid all‑round choice for cost‑conscious shoppers.