For any kitchen to qualify as a virtuous kitchen, it must be equipped with all the essential appliances. One such critical appliance is a microwave oven. A microwave oven is a versatile piece of technology that has elevated kitchen convenience to new heights. Although, microwave ovens add a great deal of ease and convenience to the kitchen, owning them can be an expensive feat. Recent microwave oven models have started to inculcate new and advanced features but at the cost of exponential raise in the prices. (More about types of microwaves).
In such scenes, people searching for cheaper variants ideal for daily use have a hard time to find appropriate models. With us at your service, you need not exert too much energy on surfing through different models. We have it all done for you! Below is a compilation of the cheapest microwave ovens that are priced under $100. Not only they are equipped with essential features but also are guaranteed to serve you for long. If you’re on to lookout for the microwave ovens with convection features, we have tested and formulated a list of best convection microwave ovens; do check it out.
Further along the article, we have listed our top 10 best Countertop microwave under $100. Alongside being inexpensive, these microwave ovens are packed with all desirable features. The list below is prepared after an extensive research of various online platforms so you can rest assured for their authenticity.
Comparison Table
Best Microwave Under $100
1. Toshiba EM131A5C-BS 1.2 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven
Slightly exceeding the $100 mark, the EM131A5C-BS is a rather spacious microwave than some other options on this list. Precisely sitting at 1.2 cu. ft. of cavity volume, the microwave conveniently houses larger dinner plates. Corresponding to higher capacity, the turntable diameter in this unit measures 12.4 inches.
Also, the power rating as compared to its predecessor Toshiba microwave is slightly higher at 1100 watts. Augmented with 10 power levels, the microwave settings can be finely adjusted according to the requirements of the recipe. Besides amplified capacity and power output, this variant has a major feature addition in the form of ‘sensor cooking’.
The microwave cavity has built-in sensors that in response to the vapors and humidity inside, automatically adjust cooking power and corresponding times to give out consistent and thoroughly cooked/reheated meals. A very convenient feature that takes out the estimations and guesswork out of your microwave cooking.
2. Farberware Classic 1.1 Cubic Microwave Oven
Farberware Classic FMO11AHTBKB is one of the highest rated Microwave Ovens on Amazon that sells under $100. Combining a compact footprint with an appropriately large cooking cavity, this unit brings along the best of both worlds. The microwave has a generous 1.2 Cu. ft. cooking cavity with an adequately large 12.4-inch glass turntable inside.
The model looks great. Alongside being sleek in design, the features of this model can give other high-end models a run for their money. It doesn’t beep forever if you forget about your midnight snack. It has quick command buttons like +30 which enable the user to adjust cooking time and fine tune the preparations.
Unlike some expensive microwave ovens, this one functions silently. It has a power output of 1000 watts. The handle is sturdy and super easy to use. The turntable spins with a steady velocity to facilitate even cooking. The memory feature enables you to save your favorite custom recipe settings. Then, the cavity doesn’t stain all that bad in case of spills. Even if you manage to spill the grime inside, use this comprehensive guide to cleaning microwaves inside out and you should be good.
3. AmazonBasics 0.7 cu. ft. Countertop Microwave Oven
If you’re short on counter space or are looking for a compact microwave for any other reason, this unit from AmazonBasics has you covered. With a tight footprint of 17.3″ x 14.1″, the microwave barely takes bothers you to readjust your countertop appliances.
Despite being priced exceptionally low, the appliance has all the basic microwave settings/features like an LED display kitchen timer, a 10-inch glass turntable, 10 progressive power levels up to 700 watts and a child lock. Besides these basic features, the microwave is enabled to pair with Amazon Echo dot, popular known as Alexa.
Although compatible, the microwave doesn’t come with an Echo dot in the basic package. You either need to buy the echo dot separately or along with your purchase (linked directly to microwave + echo dot). Once paired, you can control the cooking options with your voice. Now that’s some functionality you’d generally relate to high-end kitchen appliances exclusively, won’t you?
4. Black+Decker EM031MB11 1.1 Cu. Ft. Microwave Oven
Coming in at number 4, have a look at this elegant, sleek and powerful microwave from Black+Decker. Priced just under $100, this microwave comes with a pleasing stainless steel exterior, moderately spacious cooking cavity of 1.1 Cu. Ft. and the magnetron produces a decent power output of 1000 watts. This microwave comes with design standards rivaling as that of premium high-end models.
The cooking cavity has a 12.4-inch removable glass turntable that rotates uniformly to ensure even heating around the food. With 10 progressive power level settings and even heating apparatus, you get perfectly cooked meals each time. To further augment the cooking controls, the microwave includes 6 of the most frequent meal options as pre-set buttons. The pre-set options include popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.
The control panel isn’t cluttered unlike some compact microwaves but is rather well separated. It includes an easily readable key control set and a bright LED display. The LED display doubles as a clock and a countdown timer. As evident, the design of the microwave doesn’t include a door handle. The door rather opens with a push button that’s located at the bottom right corner of the front panel.
5. Panasonic 0.9 Cu. ft. Countertop Microwave Oven
The Panasonic NN-SB458S is an aesthetic microwave oven suitable for small kitchens. Due to its appropriate size, the microwave fits virtually anywhere with absolute ease. The powerful 900-Watt gizmo can easily handle frequent meal preps and reheating requirements. The aspect where the microwave really shines is the defrost function. Unlike some under-powered microwaves that are selling for under a 100 dollars, this unit thoroughly defrosts meat without the usual on/off hassle.
The microwave features a 0.9 cu. ft. cooking cavity, that in our opinion, is apt for most average household needs. The cavity is illuminated which aids in monitoring the progression of your recipes. The light is bright and aptly located. So, despite the dark tint on the microwave glass door, monitoring your preparations is no big deal.
The keep warm feature helps you to maintain the food temperature without overcooking the food. The microwave operates silently which is a basic requisite for many. The microwave oven has 10 different power levels that enable the users to cook precisely.
6. Nostalgia RMO7AQ Retro 0.7 Cu. ft. Microwave Oven
For the people that are into retro looking appliances, this one form Nostalgia might just hit the sweet spot for you. This microwave is very pretty to look at and although slightly smaller than most microwaves it fits a standard sized plate easily. If you are willing to sacrifice some capacity and power for aesthetics, then we recommend you this model.
The 0.7 cu. ft. cavity houses a 10-inch recessed glass turntable. The recessed configuration of the turntable ensures that no more of the microwave cavity is eaten away. The model heats edibles really well and the defrost function really seems to defrost quickly, evenly, and without pre-cooking the food. The timer and temperature knobs are sturdy and work smoothly. Further, the control panel comprises of a bright LED display that is easy to read and adds a nice contrast of functionality to the whole “retro” theme of the appliance.
As mentioned earlier, the microwave compromises on some performance factors. Unlike most other microwaves on this list, this one only has 5 power levels ranking up to 700 watts. Although, it may be enough for regular meals and reheating; these numbers compare poorly with modern high-end models.
7. Farberware Classic FMO07AHTBKJ 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave Oven
If your requirements allow you to be a bit frugal with the microwave capacity and cooking power, the FMO07AHTBKJ is a commendable option in a budget that still gets the job done. The 700 watt microwave is thorough at heating and is augmented with a convenient control panel. The controls include easy one-touch functions like popcorn, pizza, potato and more besides smart options like time ad weight defrost. Further, the panel has a bright LED display that functions as a kitchen timer while cooking and a regular clock when the microwave isn’t in operation.
Farberware has kept the design pretty sleek and appealing; matching its other high-end models. Meaning, despite being a budget pick, the microwave sits pretty on your kitchen counter and is approved to match any kitchen décor scheme. Brushed stainless appliances are hardly accused of standing out and hence, are often recommended by home designers.
The microwave has 10 power levels and is equipped with multi-stage cooking options. This means, your cooking can be fully customised to the finest level of temperature manipulations so that your dishes come out perfectly done each time. Additionally, the child lock feature ensures that the microwave isn’t in operation while you’re away.
8. Magic Chef 0.9 Cu. ft. Microwave Oven
This microwave form Magic Chef is perfect for small countertops. An ideal pick for people looking for a compact microwave oven for daily use. The oven has a 900-Watt power rating that allows it cook meals at a considerably faster pace.
The oven is provided with sensor cooking feature that enables the appliance to precisely adjust the time and temperature settings. The user interface is extremely convenient with 8 one-touch buttons.
The oven features a memory setting that allows you to customise and save your favourite meal preparations. The cooking capacity of 0.9 cu. ft. is spacious enough to accommodate moderately sized dinner plates.
9. Danby 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Under $100
Here’s another good-looking, adequately sized countertop microwave in this budget segment. This 1.1 Cu. ft. (31 L) countertop microwave is equipped with 1000 watts of cooking power. This provision translates to quick defrosting, reheating and cooking modes. Coming to the cooking flexibility, it has 10 discrete power levels; meaning, you can fine-tune your dishes just the way you like them.
Additionally, the microwave has 6 one-touch menus to get meals ready on the go. these auto-cook menus include popcorn, potatoes, pizza, beverage, frozen vegetable and dinner plate. The user interface is pretty easy to use and includes a bright LED display that doubles as a clock and a timer.
The oven interior has a bright automatic light that switches on upon opening the door. The oven cavity has a ~10-inch glass turntable to facilitate even and uniform cooking. Your purchase is covered with a comprehensive warranty for a period of 1 year.
10. Toshiba 0.9 Cu. ft. Microwave Oven
Here’s another good-looking, adequately sized countertop microwave in this budget segment. This 1.1 Cu. ft. (31 L) countertop microwave is equipped with 1000 watts of cooking power. This provision translates to quick defrosting, reheating and cooking modes. Coming to the cooking flexibility, it has 10 discrete power levels; meaning, you can fine-tune your dishes just the way you like them.
Additionally, the microwave has 6 one-touch menus to get meals ready on the go. these auto-cook menus include popcorn, potatoes, pizza, beverage, frozen vegetable and dinner plate. The user interface is pretty easy to use and includes a bright LED display that doubles as a clock and a timer.
The oven interior has a bright automatic light that switches on upon opening the door. The oven cavity has a ~10-inch glass turntable to facilitate even and uniform cooking. Your purchase is covered with a comprehensive warranty for a period of 1 year.
Conclusion
Microwave ovens have completely revolutionized modern kitchens. This appliance saves time, energy and fuel to facilitate better quality of life. But recent models have been priced way too high in exchange for some smart features. If you’re looking for something which can be used for microwave as well as for venting smoke from your gas cooktops, do check our list of Over the Range Microwave Ovens.
Similarly, if your appliance wall needs an upgrade, you could use our reviews of the best wall ovens and wall oven microwave combos.
The market however has all of the variants. Some are fairly priced while others unnecessarily priced higher. In this article, we have tried our best to pick the most reasonably price microwave ovens with all essential features. We compiled this list of microwave oven available under 100$ to help families looking for a microwave oven ideal for daily use.
