Tired of microwave meals that take forever or come out unevenly cooked? Finding a good microwave doesn’t have to break the bank. But when you’re on a tight budget, say under $100, the choices can feel overwhelming. You want something that heats your food quickly and reliably, but also fits your kitchen space and doesn’t look out of place. It’s easy to feel lost among all the different brands, sizes, and features, wondering which one is the best value for your money.
This guide is here to help! We’ve done the digging so you don’t have to. We’ll walk you through what really matters when picking an affordable countertop microwave. You’ll learn how to spot the hidden gems and avoid the duds. By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear idea of what to look for, making your shopping trip much easier and helping you find a microwave that makes reheating and cooking a breeze without spending too much cash.
Our Top 5 Countertop Microwave Under $100 Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Countertop Microwave Under $100 Detailed Reviews
1. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 8.8/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact powerhouse, perfect for quick meals and reheating. Its 0.7 cubic feet capacity fits easily on your counter, and the 700-watt power delivers fast results. With 10 different power levels and 6 handy cooking presets, you can prepare everything from popcorn to potatoes with just a touch. It’s designed for convenience and safety, making it a great addition to any kitchen.
What We Like:
- Extra-Quick Cooking: Six popular presets like popcorn, pizza, and veggies make cooking a breeze. You can also set the time by just pressing the number keys.
- Low to High Power: Choose from 10 power levels, from melting butter to rapid cooking. This 700W microwave packs a punch in a small package.
- Digital Controls: Easily set your time and power level. The +30 seconds button is super handy for extra cooking time.
- Memory Function: Program your favorite cooking settings for one-touch access. Your daily go-to meals are simple to start.
- Safety First: The child safety lock on the handle prevents accidental openings. You can also lock the control panel for extra peace of mind.
- Mute Option: Silence those annoying beeps with the Audio Button. It’s perfect for quiet mornings or when the kids are sleeping.
- Modern Design: The sleek black finish looks great in any kitchen. Its compact size saves counter space.
- Eco Mode: Save power and turn off the display when not in use.
- Easy to Clean: The durable exterior wipes clean easily. The glass turntable is even dishwasher safe.
- Trusted Quality: It’s cETL approved with advanced safety features and comes with a 1-year assurance from Chefman.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic feet capacity might be a bit small for larger dishes or multiple servings.
- For those who frequently cook very large meals, a slightly larger microwave might be preferred.
This Chefman microwave offers a great balance of features and convenience for everyday use. It’s a reliable and user-friendly appliance for quick and easy cooking.
2. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 9.3/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a handy kitchen gadget that makes cooking quick and easy. It’s a 0.9 cubic foot microwave with 900 watts of power, meaning it cooks your food fast. You can choose from 10 different power levels, from gently melting butter to cooking your meals in a flash. Plus, it has six handy cooking presets for things like popcorn, pizza, and vegetables. It’s black, sleek, and fits nicely on your kitchen counter. It also has a child safety lock and a mute button, which is great for quiet kitchens.
What We Like:
- Extra-quick cooking with 6 popular presets and quick number key entry.
- 10 power levels offer great control for various cooking needs.
- Digital controls are user-friendly and include a +30 seconds button.
- Memory function lets you save your favorite cooking settings for one-touch starts.
- Child safety lock and Lock Mode provide peace of mind.
- Mute option lets you silence beeps for a quieter environment.
- Modern black design complements any kitchen décor.
- Eco Mode saves power and can disable the display.
- Easy to clean exterior and a dishwasher-safe glass turntable.
- Trusted quality with cETL approval and a 1-year assurance.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity might be a bit small for very large dishes or multiple servings.
- While it has presets, some users might prefer more advanced cooking features like convection.
This Chefman microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and feature-rich countertop appliance. It balances convenience with safety and a stylish design.
3. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4″ Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor
Rating: 9.5/10
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Oven is a sleek and powerful addition to any kitchen. With a 1.2 cubic foot capacity and a 1000-watt output, it handles all your reheating and cooking needs. Its smart humidity sensor ensures your food is cooked just right, every time. The modern silver finish looks great on any countertop.
What We Like:
- The Smart Sensor Technology takes the guesswork out of cooking. It automatically adjusts time and power based on how much steam your food makes. You’ll get perfectly cooked meals without worrying about burning or undercooking.
- It has 12 auto menus, including quick options for pizza, vegetables, and sensor reheat. This makes cooking your favorite foods super simple.
- You get 10 different power levels. This gives you lots of control for different kinds of cooking. You can use it for simple tasks like melting butter or boiling water.
- The defrost feature works by weight or time, making it easy to prepare frozen foods. The one-touch start lets you quickly add cooking time in 30-second increments.
- The large 12.4-inch glass turntable can be removed, making it easy to clean. The interior is also designed for simple cleaning.
- The Mute Function lets you turn off the annoying beeping sounds. The ECO mode helps save energy when the microwave isn’t in use.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has 12 auto menus, some users might prefer more specialized options for specific cuisines.
- The input power is 1600 watts, which is higher than some other microwaves, meaning it might draw more electricity when in use.
This Toshiba microwave offers a great balance of smart features and user-friendly operation. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and capable countertop microwave.
4. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 9.1/10
The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB countertop microwave is a neat little appliance that makes cooking and reheating a breeze. Its compact 0.7 cubic feet size is perfect for smaller kitchens or dorm rooms. You can easily cook popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and even reheat beverages with its simple one-touch buttons. Plus, it has a handy mute function so you won’t be bothered by beeps.
What We Like:
- The mute function is a lifesaver for quiet kitchens or late-night snacks.
- ECO Mode saves energy by reducing standby power.
- Easy one-touch buttons for common foods make cooking super simple.
- Express cooking options (1-6 minutes and +30 seconds) speed things up.
- Two defrost settings (by weight or time) offer flexibility.
- The bright digital display and interior light are easy to see.
- The 10-inch glass turntable fits most standard dishes.
- A child safety lock adds peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic feet capacity might be too small for larger families or bulk cooking.
- While it has many auto-cook options, some users might prefer more manual control over cooking times.
This COMFEE microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a user-friendly and energy-efficient way to heat up food. It offers great convenience without a high price tag.
5. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 8.7/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a great addition to any kitchen. It’s compact at 0.7 cubic feet, making it perfect for small spaces. This microwave heats food quickly and efficiently with its 700 watts of power. It also has a stylish stainless steel finish that looks good anywhere.
What We Like:
- It has pre-programmed buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, and potatoes. This makes cooking simple.
- The 30-second express cooking button is super handy for quick reheating.
- The large LED display is easy to read.
- The child safety lock gives parents peace of mind.
- The removable glass turntable is easy to clean.
- The push-button door opens easily.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic feet size might be too small for larger families or for heating very big dishes.
- While 700 watts is good for most tasks, some might prefer a higher wattage for faster cooking.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a reliable and user-friendly appliance. It’s a smart choice for anyone needing a basic, efficient microwave.
Finding Your Perfect Countertop Microwave Under $100
Looking for a microwave that won’t break the bank? You’ve come to the right place! A countertop microwave is a kitchen essential for quick meals and reheating. Finding a great one for under $100 is totally achievable. This guide will help you pick the best option for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop, keep these important features in mind:
- Wattage: This tells you how powerful the microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Aim for at least 700 watts.
- Capacity (Cubic Feet): This is how much food can fit inside. For one or two people, 0.7 to 1.0 cubic feet is usually enough. Bigger families might need a bit more space.
- Turntable: This spinning plate makes sure your food cooks evenly. Most microwaves have one, and it’s a must-have.
- Preset Cooking Programs: Some microwaves have buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or potatoes. These take the guesswork out of cooking.
- Digital Display and Controls: Easy-to-read screens and simple buttons make using the microwave a breeze.
- Child Lock: This safety feature prevents little hands from accidentally turning the microwave on.
Important Materials
The materials used in a microwave affect its durability and how it looks.
- Exterior: Most exteriors are made of durable plastic or painted steel. Stainless steel looks nice but might cost a bit more. Plastic is common and budget-friendly.
- Interior: The inside is usually coated with a special enamel or ceramic. These coatings are easy to clean and resist scratches. Make sure the interior is smooth and seamless for simple wiping.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a microwave better or not so great.
- Build Quality: A microwave that feels solid and well-put-together will last longer. Check if the door closes snugly and the buttons feel responsive. Cheaply made microwaves can feel flimsy.
- Ease of Cleaning: A microwave with a smooth interior and a removable glass turntable is much easier to clean. Stubborn grease and food splatters are no fun!
- Noise Level: Some microwaves can be quite loud when running. If you’re sensitive to noise, look for models that mention quiet operation.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often have better quality control and customer service. Researching brands can give you an idea of their reliability.
- Warranty: A good warranty shows the manufacturer stands behind their product. It protects you if something goes wrong.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll actually use your microwave.
- For Dorm Rooms and Small Apartments: Compact microwaves are perfect for small spaces. They can heat up ramen, steam vegetables, or reheat leftovers.
- For Quick Lunches at Work: A small, portable microwave can be a lifesaver if your office kitchen is lacking. It’s great for warming up your packed lunch.
- For Simple Reheating: If you just need to warm up a plate of last night’s dinner, a basic model will do the job perfectly.
- For Defrosting: Many microwaves have a defrost setting that makes thawing frozen foods easy and quick.
- For Making Popcorn: A dedicated popcorn button can ensure perfectly popped kernels every time.
Choosing the right countertop microwave under $100 means looking at power, size, and features that fit your lifestyle. With a little research, you can find a reliable and handy appliance that makes your kitchen tasks easier.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the average size of a countertop microwave under $100?
A: Most microwaves in this price range are considered compact or mid-size. They usually have a capacity between 0.7 and 1.1 cubic feet. This size is good for most kitchens and apartments.
Q: Are microwaves under $100 powerful enough?
A: Yes, many microwaves under $100 offer good power. Look for models with at least 700 watts. This wattage is enough for most everyday heating and cooking tasks.
Q: How important is the wattage of a microwave?
A: Wattage is very important. Higher wattage means the microwave heats food faster. If you want quick reheating, aim for a higher wattage.
Q: Can I defrost food with a cheap microwave?
A: Yes, most microwaves under $100 have a defrost function. This feature helps thaw frozen meats, vegetables, and other items safely and efficiently.
Q: Are there microwaves under $100 with digital displays?
A: Absolutely! Many budget-friendly microwaves come with clear digital displays. These make it easy to see cooking times and select settings.
Q: What does “capacity” mean for a microwave?
A: Capacity refers to the internal space of the microwave. It is measured in cubic feet. A larger capacity means you can fit bigger dishes or more food inside.
Q: How do I clean a microwave?
A: Cleaning is usually easy. Wipe the inside with a damp cloth and mild soap. Removable glass turntables can often go in the dishwasher. Some interiors have special non-stick coatings.
Q: Do I need a turntable in my microwave?
A: Yes, a turntable is very important. It rotates your food as it cooks, ensuring that it heats up evenly on all sides. This prevents cold spots and overcooked edges.
Q: What are preset cooking options?
A: Preset cooking options are buttons that are programmed for specific foods, like popcorn or pizza. You press the button, and the microwave automatically sets the cooking time and power level.
Q: Where can I buy countertop microwaves under $100?
A: You can find them at major retailers like Walmart, Target, Amazon, and Best Buy. Many appliance stores also carry affordable options.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!