Finding the best cheap countertop microwave ovens delivers essential cooking convenience for any budget-conscious kitchen. These compact appliances offer quick heating and reheating for everyday meals. While many options exist, features like wattage, capacity, and preset programs vary significantly, impacting cooking speed and versatility.
Choosing the wrong model can lead to undercooked food or a unit that doesn’t meet your specific needs, proving to be a costly mistake. To help you navigate the market, we’ve curated a list of top-tier budget-friendly countertop microwaves that balance performance and affordability.
These selections are designed to fit seamlessly into your routine, providing reliable functionality.
For the best cheap countertop microwave ovens offering a balance of performance and affordability, consider models focusing on 700-watt power for efficient cooking and 0.7 cubic feet capacity for compact spaces. These often feature convenient pre-programmed settings for popular items like popcorn and beverages, making them practical kitchen staples.
The Best Cheap Countertop Microwave Ovens, at a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with Best for: Basic heating needs | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Best for: Starter kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Best for: Quiet operation | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode Best for: Energy conscious use | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Best for: Compact kitchens | Check Price |
How We Picked
To identify the best cheap countertop microwave ovens, we prioritized real-world performance and safety. We evaluated build quality, durability, and standout features like child locks and mute functions across models like the Chefman and COMFEE. Microwaves were screened for consistent heating and ease of use, evidenced by presets found on the Farberware and BLACK+DECKER units.
We ruled out any models showing significant performance inconsistencies or lacking crucial safety features. Our analysis focused on models offering excellent value and essential functionality for everyday needs.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Understanding Microwave Wattage
When choosing a budget-friendly microwave, pay close attention to wattage. Higher wattage means faster cooking. For example, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 offers 700 Watts, while the GE Countertop Microwave Oven (1.1 Cubic Ft.) boasts 950 watts.
While the 700-watt options like the Chefman and Farberware are perfectly capable for basic reheating and popcorn, a 900-watt or higher model, such as the BLACK+DECKER EM9P02P9 or the larger GE, will significantly cut down your cooking times for more substantial meals.
Essential Safety Locks
For households with children, a two-step child lock is a crucial safety feature. This prevents accidental activation, ensuring peace of mind. Several models include this, such as the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS), COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB, GE Countertop Microwave Oven (1.1 Cubic Ft.), and GE Countertop Microwave Oven (0.7 Cubic Ft.).
While not always the headline feature, it’s a mandatory standard for 2026 and a vital consideration for family-friendly kitchens.
1. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with
Best for: Compact kitchens, dorm rooms, small apartments.
Six popular presets, including popcorn and pizza, are readily available on this 700-watt Chefman microwave, allowing for quick selection without programming.
This appliance offers 10 distinct power levels for precise heating, from low settings for melting butter to maximum power for rapid cooking. Its compact 0.7 cu. ft. capacity fits easily on most countertops, with dimensions of 17.1 x 12.8 x 10.2 inches.
Pros
- Six one-touch programs for common foods
- 10 power levels for flexible cooking
- 700 watts for efficient heating
- Compact 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
Cons
- No mute function for quiet operation
Ideal for students or individuals needing a basic microwave for everyday reheating and snack preparation. Travelers will appreciate its straightforward preset buttons.
2. Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts
Best for: Small households, quick meal prep.
Prepare meals rapidly with this 700-watt Farberware microwave, featuring six one-touch options like popcorn and potato for instant cooking.
This 0.7 cu. ft. model provides 10 power levels and multi-stage cooking for customized results. It includes time or weight defrost settings, making it simple to thaw frozen items. External dimensions are 17.3 x 13 x 10.2 inches.
Pros
- Six one-touch cooking programs
- 10 adjustable power levels
- Defrost by time or weight
- 700 watts output power
Cons
- Beeping sounds cannot be turned off
Perfect for small families or single occupants who prioritize fast, easy meal preparation. Its defrost functions are a convenient addition for busy schedules.
3. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute
Best for: Families with young children, versatile cooking.
This TOSHIBA microwave delivers 900 watts of cooking power and includes a two-step child lock for enhanced safety, preventing accidental activation.
With a 0.9 cu. ft. interior and an 11-inch glass turntable, it accommodates standard dinner plates. Choose from 11 power levels and six preset menus, including options for popcorn and potatoes, or use the defrost and keep warm functions.
Pros
- 900 watts for faster cooking
- Two-step child lock feature
- 11 power levels for precision
- Spacious 0.9 cu. ft. capacity
Cons
- No integrated mute function
This microwave is well-suited for families with children due to its safety lock. The higher wattage and capacity make it a good choice for more frequent or slightly larger meal portions.
4. COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode
Best for: Quiet kitchens, simple operation.
Achieve a quiet cooking experience with the COMFEE’ microwave’s mute function, activated by holding the sound on/off button for 3 seconds.
This model boasts 700 watts of power and 11 distinct power levels. It features easy one-touch express cooking for 1-6 minutes and +30 seconds, along with two defrost settings. The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and 10.1-inch turntable are practical for everyday use.
Pros
- Mute function for silent operation
- 11 power levels available
- Express cooking for speed
- 700 watts cooking power
Cons
- Voltage is 110V, requiring adapter in some regions
Ideal for individuals or households that value a quiet environment, such as open-plan living spaces or late-night snackers. Its express cooking makes short work of simple reheating.
5. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child
Best for: Budget-conscious, everyday reheating.
The BLACK+DECKER 700-watt microwave offers a push-button door for easy access and a child safety lock for secure operation.
Its 0.7 cu. ft. capacity and 10 power settings provide versatility for various reheating and cooking tasks. A large LED display makes the control panel easy to read, and the removable 10-inch glass turntable simplifies cleaning.
Pros
- Child safety lock included
- 10 power settings
- Easy-access push-button door
- 700 watts cooking power
Cons
- Voltage is 110V, potentially limiting compatibility
This microwave is a solid choice for anyone seeking a functional and affordable appliance for basic reheating needs. The child lock adds a layer of safety for families.
6. BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety
Best for: Slightly larger portions, versatile reheating.
With 900 watts of power, this BLACK+DECKER microwave cooks food faster and more evenly, featuring a 10.6-inch glass turntable.
This digital model offers 10 power settings and a 0.9 cu. ft. capacity, suitable for standard dinner plates. It includes pre-programmed buttons for popular items like popcorn and pizza, a kitchen timer, and a child safety lock.
Pros
- 900 watts for efficient cooking
- Larger 0.9 cu. ft. capacity
- 10 power levels
- Child safety lock feature
Cons
- No explicit mute function for sounds
This microwave is well-suited for individuals or couples who prepare slightly larger meals or reheats. The higher wattage and capacity offer a noticeable improvement in cooking speed.
7. FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black
Best for: Small kitchens, simplified operation.
The FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK microwave, at 700 watts, is designed for compact spaces like dorm rooms or small apartments with its 0.7 cu. ft. capacity.
Its digital control panel offers easy-to-use options, including express cooking and adjustable power levels. Two distinct defrost timers provide control over warming frozen foods. The exterior dimensions are 19.76 x 15.87 x 11.73 inches.
Pros
- Compact 0.7 cu. ft. interior
- Digital control panel for ease of use
- Two defrost timers
- 700 watts of cooking power
Cons
- Only 6 preset cooking programs
This microwave is a practical choice for those with limited counter space who need a simple appliance for daily reheating and quick meal preparation. The digital panel simplifies programming.
8. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 1.1 Cubic Ft., 950-watt Capacity,
Best for: Larger households, family use.
Offering a generous 1.1 cu. ft. interior, this GE microwave provides ample space for family-sized meals and rotates with a 950-watt heating capacity.
Convenience cooking controls and one-touch operation make this model user-friendly, while the two-step child lock adds safety. It includes a kitchen timer and defrost functions for versatile meal preparation.
Pros
- Spacious 1.1 cu. ft. interior
- Powerful 950-watt output
- One-touch convenience controls
- Two-step child lock feature
Cons
- Higher power consumption at 950W
This larger GE microwave is ideal for families or households that frequently cook or reheat meals. Its capacity and power allow for efficient preparation of bigger portions.
9. BLACK+DECKER EM9P02P9 Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu Ft, 900W with
Best for: Apartments, dorms, small offices.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave offers a compact 0.9 cu. ft. capacity, fitting easily into small kitchens while still accommodating standard dinner plates.
With 900 watts of power and 10 adjustable power levels, it efficiently reheats and cooks food. Six one-touch preset menus, including buttons for popcorn and pizza, simplify meal preparation. It also features an express cooking function.
Pros
- Compact 0.9 cu. ft. size
- 900 watts cooking power
- Six preset menus
- 10 power level options
Cons
- No specific mention of a mute button
This microwave is a great fit for individuals or small offices that need a capable appliance without taking up too much counter space. The one-touch presets make daily use effortless.
10. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft., 700-watt Capacity,
Best for: Basic reheating, college students.
This GE microwave provides 700 watts of cooking power in a compact 0.7 cu. ft. design, perfect for limited counter space in dorms or small apartments.
It features a two-step child lock for safety and simple one-touch operation for convenient use. The glass turntable rotates food for even cooking, and it includes presets for popular items like popcorn and pizza.
Pros
- Compact 0.7 cu. ft. capacity
- 700 watts of power
- Two-step child lock for safety
- One-touch operation
Cons
- Internal dimensions may limit very large dishes
This GE microwave is an excellent budget-friendly option for students or single individuals needing a reliable appliance for basic reheating and quick snacks. Its compact size is a major advantage.
Wattage vs. Capacity: Where Price Truly Matters
When seeking the best cheap countertop microwave ovens, the primary determinant of suitability isn’t wattage or cubic footage in isolation, but the specific combination that aligns with your household’s daily use. Simply chasing the highest wattage or largest capacity often leads to excessive cost and underutilized features, while aiming too low guarantees frustration and long wait times for basic tasks.
Consider the common 700-watt models. The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts and the Farberware 0.7 Cu.
Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts both offer the same base output and compact footprint.
They are adequate for reheating leftovers or popping popcorn quickly, but their limited power means defrosting larger items will take considerably longer. While these are budget-friendly choices, the trade-off is tangible in time spent waiting.
Stepping up to 900 watts, like in the BLACK+DECKER EM9P02P9 Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu Ft, 900W or the BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety, provides a noticeable difference. Not only does this extra power expedite reheating and cooking, but it also makes defrosting more efficient. The slightly larger 0.9 cu.
ft. capacity in the BLACK+DECKER EM9P02P9, for instance, offers more room for standard dinner plates without a significant jump in external dimensions compared to the 0.7 cu.
ft. units.
However, models like the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 1.1 Cubic Ft., 950-watt Capacity, demonstrate that a larger capacity (1.1 cu. ft.) paired with higher wattage (950 watts) can still maintain a relatively compact exterior. This makes it an excellent choice for households that regularly prepare larger meals or need to heat multiple items simultaneously, as it balances increased utility with manageable countertop real estate.
Conversely, the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute, and the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode, highlight that even at lower wattages, features like auto menus and mute functions can add significant convenience for specific users, indicating that sometimes the best cheap option prioritizes usability over raw power.
Ultimately, the optimal choice hinges on balancing your immediate needs for speed and volume against your budget. For simple reheating and single servings, a 700-watt, 0.7 cu. ft.
unit like the FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Microwave, Black will suffice. For more demanding tasks or larger households, investing a bit more in a 900-watt or higher model with a 0.9 cu. ft.
capacity or greater, such as the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 1.1 Cubic Ft., 950-watt Capacity, offers a superior long-term value.
What to Look for in Cheap Countertop Microwave Ovens
Wattage and cooking power
For speed and efficiency, prioritize microwaving power of 1000 watts or higher. This output directly translates to faster reheating and more even defrosting, avoiding the common pitfall of cold centers and overcooked edges. While lower wattages, typically 700-800 watts, are adequate for basic tasks, they demand significantly more time.
For a cheap microwave that performs well, aim for models offering 1000W. This wattage ensures your food is heated thoroughly and quickly, delivering a superior cooking experience without a premium price tag.
Capacity and size options
Consider your household size and available counter space when selecting capacity. For singles or couples, a compact 0.7 to 0.9 cubic feet model is usually sufficient and conserves valuable kitchen real estate. Families or those who frequently reheat larger dishes should opt for 1.0 to 1.2 cubic feet microwaves, which comfortably fit standard dinner plates and smaller casserole dishes.
Always check external dimensions to ensure a snug fit and measure your largest serving dishes to confirm they’ll clear the turntable.
Essential features and presets
Look for a microwave that simplifies your daily routines with intuitive presets and practical features. Standard presets like popcorn, potato, and beverage are highly useful for quick meals. A turntable that can be turned on or off grants flexibility for oddly shaped dishes or when cooking items that require manual intervention.
A clear, easy-to-read digital display with well-labeled buttons is crucial for stress-free operation, especially for quick reheating or simple cooking tasks, making the cooking process more accessible.
Durability and build materials
Durability in a budget microwave hinges on thoughtful material choices and a robust interior. Stainless steel exteriors offer superior longevity and a more premium look compared to basic plastic, resisting scratches and stains better over time. Inside, a non-stick coating facilitates effortless cleaning of spills and splatters, a critical factor for maintaining hygiene and appearance of your appliance.
Opt for models with quieter ventilation systems; excessive noise can be a significant distraction during operation, ensuring a more pleasant kitchen environment.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you need to quickly reheat leftovers or cook common items, choose a model with multiple one-touch preset options for things like popcorn, pizza, and beverages.
- If you have young children or want to prevent accidental activation, choose a microwave with a two-step child lock feature.
- If you’re sensitive to noise or are using the microwave in a shared space, choose a model that offers a mute function to turn off operational sounds.
- If space is limited, such as in a dorm room or small apartment kitchen, choose a compact 0.7 cu. ft. model.
Quick Best Cheap Countertop Microwave Ovens Buying Checklist
- Wattage Matters: Ensure sufficient wattage (ideally 900W+) for quick and even cooking.
- Capacity Check: Select a size that fits your typical meal portions and available counter space.
- Essential Presets: Look for common buttons like popcorn, beverage, and defrost for convenience.
- Turntable Utility: Confirm if a removable turntable supports your cooking needs and cleaning habits.
- Simple Controls: Opt for intuitive buttons and a clear digital display for ease of use.
- Durable Build: Consider materials like stainless steel for longevity and easier maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Typical Wattage Range For Cheap Countertop Microwave Ovens?
Cheap countertop microwave ovens typically range from 700 to 1000 watts. Higher wattage generally means faster cooking and reheating times. Even with lower wattage models, you can still achieve satisfactory results for most everyday tasks like warming leftovers or making popcorn.
How Does Capacity Affect The Choice Of A Cheap Countertop Microwave?
Capacity, measured in cubic feet, determines how much food can fit inside. Smaller capacities (around 0.7-0.9 cu. ft.) are great for individuals or small kitchens with limited space, while larger ones (1.0+ cu. ft.) accommodate bigger dishes or family-sized portions.
Are Specific Cooking Presets Important When Buying A Budget Microwave?
Cooking presets like popcorn, potato, or beverage can add significant convenience to budget microwaves. These pre-programmed settings take the guesswork out of common microwave tasks. While not essential, they offer a user-friendly experience for everyday use.
What Is The Significance Of A Turntable In An Affordable Microwave?
A turntable ensures even cooking by rotating food throughout the microwave cycle. Most cheap countertop microwave ovens include this feature, making it easy to reheat meals uniformly. Many turntables are also removable for simpler cleaning of the interior.
How Can I Determine The Best Cheap Countertop Microwave Oven For My Needs?
Consider your space constraints, typical usage, and desired features when selecting a budget microwave. Prioritize sufficient wattage for your cooking speed needs and an appropriate capacity for your household size. Simple, intuitive controls also enhance the user experience.
Final Words
Finding the best cheap countertop microwave ovens offers excellent value and convenience for everyday kitchen tasks. These appliances provide essential functionalities for reheating, defrosting, and quick meal preparation without breaking the bank. Investing in an affordable microwave can significantly streamline your cooking routine.