Tired of spending a fortune on kitchen gadgets? What if you could get a handy countertop microwave without breaking the bank? Many people think microwaves under $100 are hard to find, or that they won’t be good enough. It can be confusing with so many choices out there. You want something that heats your food well, is easy to use, and fits your kitchen space, but finding all that for less than a hundred dollars feels like a treasure hunt.
This is where we come in! We understand the struggle of wanting a useful appliance that’s also budget-friendly. If you’ve been searching for a microwave that offers great value without costing too much, you’re in the right place. Keep reading, and we’ll guide you through finding excellent countertop microwaves that are all priced under $100. You’ll discover which features really matter and how to pick the perfect one for your needs.
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: 8.9/10
Meet the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven, your new kitchen helper! This compact microwave is perfect for small spaces and busy lives. It heats up food quickly and has easy-to-use settings for all your favorite meals. Its sleek black design looks great on any counter.
What We Like:
- It cooks food super fast! You can pick from six special buttons for things like popcorn or pizza. Or, just type in the minutes you need.
- It has 10 different power levels. This means you can melt butter gently or cook your food really fast.
- The digital screen makes it easy to set the time and power. The +30 seconds button is handy for extra heating.
- You can save your favorite cooking times. This makes starting your usual meals a one-touch job.
- It has a child safety lock, so little hands can’t open the door by accident. You can also lock the controls.
- You can turn off the beeping sounds with the mute button. This is great if you want to be quiet.
- It looks modern and fits in well with other kitchen stuff. The black finish is nice.
- Cleaning is easy! The outside wipes clean, and the glass plate can go in the dishwasher.
- It’s built to last and comes with a 1-year promise from Chefman.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic feet size might be too small for very large dishes or multiple items.
This Chefman microwave is a smart choice for anyone needing a reliable and easy-to-use appliance. It offers great features in a small package.
2. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 9.3/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact and powerful kitchen helper. It’s designed for quick meals and easy use. This 0.9 cubic foot microwave packs 900 watts of power, making it great for busy households. Its sleek black finish looks good in any kitchen.
What We Like:
- Extra-Quick Cooking: Six handy presets for popcorn, pizza, veggies, and more make cooking simple. You can also just punch in the minutes you need.
- Low to High Power: With 10 power levels, you can melt butter gently or cook food fast.
- Digital Controls: Setting time and power is easy. The +30 seconds button adds extra time quickly.
- Memory Function: Save your favorite cooking settings for one-touch starts.
- Safety First: The child safety lock keeps the door from opening accidentally. You can also lock the control panel.
- Mute Option: Turn off the beeps with the Audio Button. This is great for quiet mornings or late nights.
- Modern Design: Its compact size and black finish blend with your kitchen decor. Eco Mode saves power and turns off the display.
- Easy to Clean: The exterior wipes clean easily. The glass turntable is even dishwasher safe.
- Trusted Quality: Chefman offers a 1-year assurance and cETL approval for safety.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.9 cubic foot capacity might be small for very large dishes or families.
- While it has presets, some users might prefer more advanced cooking options.
This Chefman microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and easy-to-use appliance for everyday cooking needs. It balances convenience with safety features for peace of mind.
3. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 9.4/10
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven is a fantastic choice for anyone needing a compact and powerful appliance. Its sleek stainless steel design looks great in any kitchen, and its 0.9 cubic feet capacity is just right for small spaces like apartments and dorm rooms. This microwave makes cooking and reheating a breeze with its user-friendly features.
What We Like:
- Powerful 900W Output: Heats food quickly and efficiently.
- 6 Auto Menus: Makes cooking popular items like popcorn and potatoes super easy with just one touch.
- 11 Power Levels: Gives you lots of control to cook different foods just right, from melting butter to boiling water.
- Mute Function: Lets you silence the end-of-cooking beep, perfect for quiet mornings or late-night snacks.
- Child Lock: A smart safety feature to keep little hands from accidentally starting the microwave.
- Easy Defrost: Quickly defrosts food by weight or time, saving you prep time.
- Spacious Turntable: The 10.6-inch removable glass turntable fits most standard plates and cleans up easily.
- Bright LED Lighting: Lets you easily see your food as it cooks.
What Could Be Improved:
- External Dimensions: While compact, it’s worth double-checking the external dimensions to ensure it fits your specific counter space.
- Input Power: The 1400-watt input power is higher than the output, which is typical for microwaves but good to note for electrical planning.
This TOSHIBA microwave is a reliable and feature-rich appliance that simplifies your daily cooking needs. It’s a smart addition to any smaller kitchen.
4. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 8.9/10
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) is a compact microwave oven that fits perfectly in small spaces like apartments. It boasts a sleek black stainless steel finish and a 0.9 cubic foot capacity, making it ideal for dorm rooms, studios, or any kitchen where space is limited. This microwave is designed to simplify your cooking with its smart features and user-friendly controls.
What We Like:
- It has a handy child lock feature to keep little ones safe.
- The 900W power ensures quick and efficient cooking.
- You get 6 preset menus for popular foods like popcorn and pizza.
- It offers 11 different power levels for flexible cooking.
- The mute function lets you turn off the beeping sounds.
- An easy defrost option saves you time.
- The one-touch start is super convenient for quick heating.
- The LED lighting inside makes it easy to see your food.
- It comes with a 10.6-inch removable glass turntable for easy cleaning.
What Could Be Improved:
- The external dimensions might still feel a bit large for some very tiny kitchens.
- Some users might prefer more advanced cooking presets beyond the 6 offered.
This TOSHIBA microwave is a great addition to any small kitchen, offering both convenience and safety. It’s a reliable appliance that makes everyday cooking a breeze.
5. Farberware FMWO11AHTBKB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.0/10
The Farberware FMWO11AHTBKB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven in Stainless Steel is a fantastic addition to any kitchen or office. It delivers powerful performance and smart features in a compact design, making meal prep a breeze.
What We Like:
- It cooks food quickly and easily with 1000 watts of power.
- You can customize your cooking with ten power levels and six one-touch options like popcorn and pizza.
- The defrost function works by weight or time, saving you time.
- Its 1.1 cu ft size is perfect for small spaces, but it still offers full-sized cooking.
- The interior and exterior are easy to clean.
- A clear LED display shows the time and has a kitchen timer.
- The interior light lets you see your food as it cooks.
- A child safety lock provides extra peace of mind.
- Quick start controls for 1 to 6 minutes and an “Add 30 Seconds” button make cooking even faster.
What Could Be Improved:
- While compact, some users might prefer an even larger capacity for bigger meals.
- The stainless steel finish, while stylish, can show fingerprints and may require frequent wiping to maintain its shine.
This Farberware microwave is a reliable and user-friendly appliance that simplifies your daily cooking needs. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking for efficiency and convenience in a countertop microwave.
Budget-Friendly Bites: Your Guide to Microwaves Under $100
Finding a great microwave that doesn’t break the bank is totally doable. You can get a reliable and useful appliance for under $100. This guide will help you pick the best one for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a microwave under $100, focus on these important features:
- Wattage: This tells you how powerful your microwave is. Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most microwaves in this price range offer 700 to 1000 watts. For everyday tasks like reheating leftovers or making popcorn, 700-800 watts is usually enough. If you plan to cook more often, aim for 900 watts or higher.
- Capacity: This is how much food you can fit inside. Microwaves are measured in cubic feet. A smaller capacity (around 0.7 cubic feet) is good for single people or small kitchens. A medium capacity (around 1.0-1.2 cubic feet) works well for families or when you need to heat larger dishes.
- Preset Cooking Programs: Many microwaves come with buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or potatoes. These presets take the guesswork out of cooking. They automatically set the time and power level.
- Turntable: A turntable rotates your food as it cooks. This helps food heat up evenly. Most microwaves have one, but check to make sure it’s easy to remove for cleaning.
- Digital Display and Controls: A clear digital display shows you the cooking time. Easy-to-use buttons or a dial make it simple to set the time and power.
Important Materials
The main parts of your microwave are made from a few key materials:
- Exterior: Most microwaves have a metal or plastic exterior. Metal is generally more durable.
- Interior: The inside is usually made of painted metal or stainless steel. Stainless steel is easier to clean and looks nicer, but painted interiors are common in budget models.
- Door: The door has a glass window so you can see your food. The glass is usually tempered for safety.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A few things can make a microwave better or not as good:
- Build Quality: A microwave that feels sturdy and well-made will last longer. Check if the door closes firmly and if the buttons feel solid.
- Ease of Cleaning: A microwave with a smooth interior and a removable turntable is much easier to wipe down. Non-stick interiors can also be a plus.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves are louder than others. If you’re sensitive to noise, look for reviews that mention how loud the microwave is when it’s running.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often have better quality control and customer service. While you can find good deals from less-known brands, sticking with a familiar name can offer more peace of mind.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use your microwave will help you choose the right one.
- Quick Reheating: If you just need to warm up leftovers or a quick snack, a smaller, less powerful microwave will work perfectly.
- Simple Cooking: For making popcorn, heating up frozen meals, or cooking simple dishes, a microwave with preset buttons is very handy.
- Small Kitchens: Compact microwaves take up less counter space. They are ideal for dorm rooms, small apartments, or offices.
- Family Use: If you have a family, you’ll want a microwave with a larger capacity and more power so you can heat bigger portions or multiple items.
Frequently Asked Questions About Microwaves Under $100
Q: What is the most important feature to consider?
A: Wattage is very important. It determines how fast your food cooks. Aim for at least 700 watts for basic tasks.
Q: Can I get a microwave with preset cooking options for under $100?
A: Yes, many microwaves under $100 come with helpful preset cooking programs for common foods.
Q: How much space do I need for a microwave?
A: Microwaves are measured by their capacity in cubic feet. Smaller ones are good for tight spaces, while larger ones need more room.
Q: Are microwaves under $100 durable?
A: Durability can vary. Look for solid build quality and check reviews to see how long they typically last.
Q: Is a turntable necessary?
A: A turntable is highly recommended. It helps your food cook evenly by rotating it.
Q: What does “wattage” mean?
A: Wattage is a measure of power. Higher wattage means faster cooking and heating.
Q: Can I cook full meals in a microwave under $100?
A: You can cook many simple meals and reheat food. For complex cooking, you might need a more powerful or specialized appliance.
Q: How do I clean a microwave?
A: Most microwaves are easy to clean with a damp cloth. Removable turntables make cleaning simpler.
Q: What is a good capacity for a single person?
A: A capacity of around 0.7 to 0.9 cubic feet is usually sufficient for one person.
Q: Should I worry about the brand name for microwaves under $100?
A: While you can find good value from lesser-known brands, sticking with a reputable brand often means better quality and customer support.
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.