7 Best Affordable Microwaves for Budget Buyers in 2025: Top Picks and Expert Tips
When shopping for an affordable microwave in 2025, focus on models that match your budget while maintaining quality and ease of use.
With many options available, selecting the right model can be tough.
Prioritizing key features will help you make a confident choice.
Some models excel in performance and safety features, and it’s essential to know which ones stand out.
Let’s look at the top picks and expert insights to aid your decision.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700W
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press...
- 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...
- 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...
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a solid option for anyone needing a compact and budget-friendly microwave. With a 0.7 cubic feet capacity and 700 watts of power, it efficiently handles basic heating tasks. It has 10 power levels and six cooking presets, such as popcorn, pizza, and leftovers, making meal preparation easy. The digital touch controls and +30 seconds button ensure simple operation, while the sturdy design fits nicely on your countertop. Features like a mute option, child safety lock, and eco mode add convenience and enhance safety. This microwave offers practical functionality at an affordable price for your kitchen.
Best For: Individuals looking for a small, affordable microwave with essential features for daily cooking.
Pros:
- Simple operation with digital touch controls and preset programs.
- Compact design fits well on countertops.
- Affordable price with reliable performance and safety features.
Cons:
- Limited capacity may not accommodate larger dishes or family meals.
- Some users find the crisp function less effective and want more control over it.
- Instructions on advanced features like crisping and power level customization may lack detail.
TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven with Auto Menus and Child Lock
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to...
- Microwave output power 900 watts, input power 1400 watts. External dimensions 18.7x 14.7x 10.7 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 14.6x13.1x 8.4 inches...
- 6 Preset Menus: This compact microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potato and more.
If you want an affordable microwave that offers safety and ease of use, the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) is a great option. Its compact design fits easily in small kitchens and apartments. With a 0.9 cu ft capacity and a stylish black stainless steel finish, it looks good too.
This microwave includes six auto menus for quick meal preparation and ten power levels for flexible cooking options. It has a simple one-touch start feature for convenience. Safety features include a two-step child lock and a mute function to keep noise levels low. This quiet operation and gentle alerts make it perfect for homes.
Overall, the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) microwave combines reliability and user-friendly features at a budget-friendly price. It simplifies everyday cooking.
Best For: Those who want an affordable, compact microwave with essential features that fit small kitchens or apartments.
Pros:
- Compact size fits limited counter space and small households
- Easy-to-use controls with auto menus and one-touch start
- Quiet operation with safety features like a child lock and mute button
Cons:
- Only basic microwave functions
- Smaller interior may not fit large dinner plates or bulky dishes
- Fewer cooking customization options compared to higher-end models
Magic Chef 0.9 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave Oven
- Countertop Microwave: Innovative microwave oven features 10 separate power levels for versatile cooking options, complemented by a child lock function designed...
- Smart Feature: Equipped with electronic controls, an LED display screen featuring a kitchen timer, express cooking functions for up to 6 minutes, and a...
- Efficient Design: With a rotating turntable ensuring even cooking, accompanied by a vibrant exterior, a pristine white ceramic interior, and a convenient...
Looking for an affordable microwave that fits well on your countertop? The Magic Chef 0.9 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave is priced around $100. It provides 900 watts of power, 10 power levels, and six cooking modes for versatile meal preparation. The electronic controls, LED display, and one-touch cooking make it easy to use, while the child lock ensures safety. With a footprint of 14.5 x 11.5 inches, it fits nicely on most counters. Users appreciate its quiet operation and user-friendly design, making it a great option for those on a budget.
Best For: Households looking for a compact and reliable microwave for everyday cooking and reheating.
Pros:
- Affordable price around $100, offering good value for its features.
- Compact size (14.5 x 11.5 inches) fits well on most countertops.
- Easy-to-use electronic controls with LED display and one-touch cooking.
Cons:
- Some users find the manual door release button hard to press.
- Controls may be difficult for individuals with limited dexterity.
- At 900 watts, cooking times may be longer compared to high-powered models.
Farberware Countertop Microwave 900W, 0.9 Cu. Ft
- CONVENIENT MICROWAVE: Prepare quick and easy meals in a snap with our powerful microwave. It packs 900 of output power and features a range of settings for...
- POWERFUL SETTINGS: This microwave has ten power levels with multi-stage cooking. You can fully customize your cooking with six one-touch options, including...
- PERFECT SIZE: Measuring 0.9 cu ft, this microwave is the ideal small-space solution that offers full-sized cooking in a compact space. It features an...
For anyone looking for a reliable and affordable countertop microwave, the Farberware 900W model is a solid option. With a 0.9 Cu. Ft. capacity, it fits neatly in small kitchens and dorms. The stainless steel exterior makes it easy to clean. It has ten power levels for different cooking needs and offers six one-touch settings for popular foods like popcorn and pizza. The LED display clearly shows the timer and clock, and the child safety lock adds an extra layer of security. This microwave is user-friendly and well-rated, offering good performance without a high price tag.
Best For: Individuals needing a compact, reliable microwave for small kitchens, dorms, or break rooms.
Pros:
- Easy to use with various cooking options and a memory function
- Compact design that suits small spaces and is easy to clean
- Quiet operation and effective performance with an appealing design
Cons:
- Some users find the button layout difficult to navigate
- Noise during operation may bother some
- Limited space inside may not fit larger dishes or multiple servings
COMFEE Countertop Microwave Oven with ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons
- Mute function, settings, clock, kitchen timer, child safety lock, easy auto-cook functions: Popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen veggie, beverage, reheat
- One touch express cooking function with 1-6 minutes and plus30 seconds functions, and two defrost settings (by weight or by time)
- Energy Saving Eco Mode: Minimizing 50% standby power by turning on ECO mode
The COMFEE Countertop Microwave Oven is a great choice for budget buyers who value simplicity and energy efficiency. Its compact size of 0.7 cu ft makes it perfect for small kitchens or dorms. It features easy one-touch buttons, 11 power levels, and auto-cook presets for popcorn, pizza, and reheating. The ECO Mode reduces standby power by 50%, helping save energy when not in use. While it may take longer to heat food compared to higher-wattage models, it works well for basic tasks like reheating meals or making popcorn. It also has a quiet operation, a child lock for safety, and a digital display for easy use, making it a practical choice for those on a budget.
Best For: Budget-conscious individuals living in small spaces who want a simple, energy-efficient microwave for reheating and basic cooking tasks.
Pros:
- Compact size suits small kitchens, dorms, or apartments
- Easy one-touch operation with several auto-cook options
- Energy-saving ECO Mode cuts standby power by 50%
Cons:
- Longer cooking times compared to higher-wattage microwaves
- Limited power may not be effective for large cooking tasks
- Some users report durability and heating efficiency issues over time
BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven with Turntable and Child Safety Lock
- 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
If you need an affordable microwave with basic features, consider the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7. This digital microwave operates at 700 watts and has a capacity of 0.7 cubic feet, making it suitable for reheating meals and simple cooking. Its large LED display allows for easy time setting and alerts. It includes pre-programmed buttons for popular items like popcorn, pizza, and beverages, adding to its usability. The removable 10-inch turntable ensures even heating, and the child safety lock prevents unauthorized access by kids. Its compact size makes it ideal for small kitchens. Some users note that it can be noisy and that the control labels can be hard to read in low light.
Best For: Individuals who want an affordable, compact microwave for reheating and basic cooking.
Pros:
- User-friendly digital controls with a large LED display and pre-programmed options for common foods
- Removable 10-inch turntable for even heating
- Child safety lock to prevent unintended use
Cons:
- Can produce a loud, buzzing noise
- Control labels are small and not illuminated, making them difficult to read in low light
- Some users experience instability on countertops and have concerns about the durability of the interior coating
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven
- 【Pre-programmed sensor menu】 for optimum heating of popular foods like pizza, potatoes, veggies, and more; Power Wattage (Microwave): 1000W; Rated Voltage:...
- 【Stylish Appearance with Large Interior, fitting a 12 inch Pizza】Black, exterior, W 23.3 in x D 18.4 in x H 15 in; large 1. 2 cubic feet capacity, Turntable...
- 【Practical Control Panel】Large digital display, easy-to-read control panel. The keypad was covered by a protective film during the shipment. Please peel it...
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS countertop microwave oven features a strong 1000W motor and smart sensor technology. This combination ensures efficient cooking and evenly heated meals. With a capacity of 1.2 cu ft and a 12.4-inch turntable, it fits well in small kitchens or offices. The pre-programmed sensor menu allows for easy heating of items like pizza and vegetables. A large digital display, mute function, and eco mode enhance its convenience. The black stainless steel finish adds style, while user-friendly controls make it simple to operate. It comes with a one-year warranty, making it a practical choice for everyday cooking.
Best For: Individuals looking for an efficient, stylish, and budget-friendly microwave for small spaces or office use.
Pros:
- User-friendly digital interface with quick heating options
- Reliable cooking performance, especially for popcorn and defrosting
- Attractive black stainless steel design complements modern kitchens
Cons:
- Some users may find initial feature exploration a bit challenging
- The 1.2 cu ft capacity may not meet the needs of larger meals
- The temporary buzzer can be silenced, but some users may prefer it on
Factors to Consider When Choosing Affordable Microwaves for Budget Buyers in 2025
When choosing an affordable microwave, first set your budget. Look for models that fit within that range. Consider the size and capacity to ensure it fits your kitchen and meets your cooking needs. Check the power and efficiency ratings to maximize your investment. Choose microwaves with user-friendly controls for convenience. Also, prioritize safety features to keep your kitchen safe and enjoyable.
Budget Range Clarity
Choosing an affordable microwave in 2025 begins with knowing its price range. Budget-friendly models typically cost between $70 and $150. This range includes microwaves with power outputs from 700 to 1000 watts, suitable for reheating and basic cooking tasks. Their capacity usually varies from 0.7 to 1.2 cubic feet, allowing you to select based on your kitchen space. Many models feature one-touch presets and child safety locks, making them user-friendly and safe. Customer ratings often average around 4.4 out of 5 stars, indicating a high level of satisfaction. By clarifying your budget, you can narrow down your options and ensure you receive good value and functionality.
Size and Capacity
Choosing the right size and capacity for an affordable microwave is important for your cooking needs and available space. Microwaves vary in internal capacity from 0.7 to 1.2 cubic feet. Think about what you usually cook or reheat. Smaller models (around 0.7 cubic feet) work well for quick reheating or single servings, while larger models (up to 1.2 cubic feet) can accommodate standard dinner plates and larger dishes.
External sizes vary significantly. Some microwaves are as low as 13 inches tall, while others can exceed 23 inches. This difference affects your countertop space. Additionally, consider the turntable diameter, which typically ranges from 10 to 12.4 inches. A suitable turntable ensures your food heats evenly. Ensure the microwave fits well in your kitchen layout for both convenience and functionality.
Power and Efficiency
In 2025, budget buyers can find a microwave that offers power and efficiency for reliable cooking. Look for models with power outputs between 700 and 1000 watts. This range strikes a balance between fast heating and energy usage. Select microwaves with at least 10 power levels for versatility with different foods and cooking methods.
Energy-saving features, such as Eco Mode, reduce standby power, helping you save money over time. Automatic presets for items like popcorn or reheating improve convenience and results. Check user reviews to identify models that defrost, reheat, and cook food evenly, avoiding dryness or overcooking. Focus on these aspects to get the best value for your investment.
Easy Controls Usage
When choosing an affordable microwave, easy-to-use controls can greatly improve your cooking experience. Look for models with one-touch cooking options and pre-programmed settings for popcorn, pizza, and beverages. These features make cooking simpler and quicker. Select microwaves with large, clear digital displays and intuitive controls, making it easy to adjust settings, especially when you’re in a hurry. A microwave with a +30 seconds button allows for quick heating, helping you get your food ready faster without complex adjustments. Additionally, consider models with multiple power levels, preferably 10 or more, for versatile cooking and reheating. If noise bothers you, look for a microwave with a mute function to silence beeps and alerts, creating a quieter cooking space.
Safety Features Included
Safety features are important when choosing an affordable microwave. Many budget models offer child safety locks to prevent kids from using the microwave accidentally. This feature adds security for families.
If noise bothers you, consider models with mute functions. This silences end-of-cycle alerts, making them suitable for shared spaces. Energy-efficient eco modes help lower electricity bills by minimizing standby power.
Design elements that focus on safety, like easy-to-clean interiors and clear LED displays, make the microwave safer and simpler to use. Adjustable power levels and auto cooking presets allow you to control cooking more effectively, which reduces the chances of overcooking or accidents.
Durability Expectations
Affordable microwaves can benefit your kitchen, but understanding their durability is essential. These models often use weaker materials, like plastic exteriors, which may wear down faster than metal. They generally last 3 to 5 years with regular use. The common warranty of 1 to 2 years shows limited trust in long-lasting performance. Over time, you might notice issues like reduced heating efficiency or broken features.
However, with proper care, you can extend the lifespan of an affordable microwave. Reviews emphasize the need to handle these appliances gently. Doing so can help maximize durability and ensure you get the best value from your purchase.
Brand Reputation Ratings
Brand reputation is important when choosing an affordable microwave. A brand rated 4.4 out of 5 stars shows that users are generally satisfied with its products. This positive feedback builds trust in the quality and service of the manufacturer. Well-known brands often appear on bestseller lists, indicating that many people buy them. Good reviews often mention design and performance, suggesting these brands focus on making user-friendly features and effective cooking. Brands with good customer service and warranty support also increase customer trust, making sure you feel secure with your purchase. Choosing a reputable brand increases your chances of getting a reliable, safe, and effective microwave.
Special Functionality Needs
When picking an affordable microwave, special features can enhance your cooking experience. Look for automatic cooking presets, such as popcorn, pizza, and beverages. These options make meal prep faster, especially if the microwave includes up to six presets. A crisp function is also useful for creating crunchier textures for snacks or leftovers. If you have children, choose a model with child safety locks to prevent accidental use. Energy-saving modes, like eco functions, reduce electricity bills by lowering power consumption when not in use. Additionally, consider microwaves with multiple power levels, up to eleven in some cases. This variety allows for better control over different cooking tasks, making budget-friendly microwaves versatile and efficient for your kitchen needs.
Hi, I’m Liza Jensen, your culinary companion here at Recipe by Liza. 🍳🥗Cooking has always been my passion—I find joy in every whisk, every sizzle, and every aromatic spice. As a home cook and recipe developer, I’ve explored flavors from around the world, creating dishes that warm hearts and tantalize taste buds.Join me on this flavorful journey! Let’s swap kitchen stories, share tips, and celebrate the magic of food together.
