Are you hunting for the best budget microwaves? Looking for a convenient appliance for cooking? In this day and age, microwaves can take off your cooking hassle. But will hunting the good one be very difficult and time-consuming? What’s the best cheap microwave? And many questions irritate you before choosing the microwave oven.
Put yourself together! The Best Picker Kitchen Appliances Innovation Lab has researched over 100 kitchen appliances that can make cooking easy. In our parallel lab test, 15 microwaves gave a wonderful performance. We have considered the oven settings like air fry, toast, or convection. We kept the quality on top when we evaluated the best budget microwave ovens. From the best performer microwaves, we have selected the 10 best inexpensive microwaves in your budget.
10 Best Budget Microwave Ovens of 2024 for Hassle-Free Cooking
Sometimes looking for the best microwaves can break your budget. Because of size, wattage, and attractiveness, convenience might charge a lot. Somehow you are searching for the best microwaves under 30 or 50 dollars. If your budget is too low, you must compromise with some features. But you also can get some special qualities at this low price. The parts are- adjustable cooking levels, weight defrosting, one-touch cooking, and many more!
We have sorted out a list of the best microwaves in 2024. They are best for affordability, luxury, and also for comfort. If you want a budget microwave oven, don’t move. Scroll down, find your choice, and feel like a million dollars.
- Best Overall: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens
- Best Value: Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop
- Best Smart: BLACK+DECKER EM036AB14 Digital Microwave Oven
- Best Compact: Farberware Countertop Microwave 1.1 Cu. Ft. 1000-Watt Compact Microwave Oven
- Best Commercial: Sharp R-21LCFS Medium-Duty Commercial Microwave Oven
- Best Over The Range: SMETA Over The Range Microwave Oven
- Best Low Profile: KoolMore KM-MLPOT-1SS 30 Inch Over-The-Range Low Profile Microwave
- Best Small: Hamilton Beach 0.9 cu.ft. 900W Microwave Oven
- Best Convection: SAMSUNG 1.2 Cu Ft PowerGrill Duo Countertop Microwave Oven w/ Power Convection
- Best Budget: GE 3-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
1. Best Overall: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven
Consider buying a cool microwave for your small countertop. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS is all in all. Toshiba is the ideal size for your tiny countertop. It also has a smart auto sensor that helps cook six popular foods. In addition, there is a large display with a clock function and countdown timer. Earlier, the timer informs you how much time is remaining for cooking. On top of all, the opening process is much easier because of the grip door handle.
Now come to the most important part, which is the exterior look. The outlook is awesome due to its stainless steel exterior. Add 30 seconds of cooking time whenever you need extra cooking time. You also must acknowledge the size of the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven, which is 1.2 cubic feet. So, it is perfect for a family. The final and foremost thing is the energy-saving feature that is needed. You can save up to 50% of energy by turning on Eco mode.
Specifications
Product Dimensions : 17.1″D x 20.5″W x 12.8″H
Brand: Toshiba
Capacity: 1.2 Cubic Feet
Installation Type: Countertop
Wattage: 1100 watts
Color: Black Stainless Steel
Key Features
- Pre-programmed sensors that offer 5 menus
- Stylish large interior
- Humidity sensor enable
- Easy-to-read control panel
- Power saving mode available
Reason to Buy
- Black stainless steel finish
- Easy to use
- Easy to clean
- Easy-to-grip door handle
- One touch display
Limitation
- One year warranty
Overall Ratings: 9.5 out of 10
2. Best Value: Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop
All right! All the microwave ovens do not have the same features at all. There are some intuitive features on some. Panasonic is such a type of microwave it has inverter technology. Astonishingly, technology differentiates it from others. The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S has a high wattage, likewise 1200 watts. It also provides a countertop or built-in both installations. This microwave has an outstanding interior design with smart cooking settings. Over and above, it has defrost, timer settings, and a child lock. Whether you’re a busy professional or a home cook, the Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S will make your life easier.
Specifications
Product Dimensions : 18″D x 22.5″W x 14.5″H
Brand: Panasonic
Capacity: 1.2 Cubic Feet
Installation Type: Countertop
Wattage: 1480 watts
Color: Stainless Steel / Silver
Key Features
- Inverter technology
- Turbo defrost
- Smart cooking settings
- Easy programming menu buttons
- Child Safety lock
Reason to Buy
- Auto cook option
- Quick minute timer
- Lighter and more efficient
- Easy to clean
- Push button door release
Limitation
- Quite high noise level
Overall Rating: 9.5 out of 10
3. Best Smart: BLACK+DECKER EM036AB14 Digital Microwave Oven
The BLACK+DECKER EM036AB14 Digital Microwave Oven is the best addition to your cookhouse. By that time, we all are upgrading our kitchen appliances. We all like appliances that are very stylish and good-looking. Even though we equally want the digital and most handy features.
The BLACK+DECKER EM036AB14 has six pre-programmed cooking sensors. You can even cook popcorn, pizza, beverages, and others with those sensors. At the same time, it has ten different power settings and 30 seconds of express cooking with an LED light interior. The digital display and easy-to-use buttons make it simple to operate. The final thing is the child safety lock ensures safety.
Specifications
Product Dimensions : 16.9″D x 20.4″W x 12.4″H
Brand: BLACK+DECKER
Capacity: 1.4 Cubic Feet
Installation Type: Countertop
Wattage: 1000 watts
Color: Stainless Steel
Key Features
- Large LED light display
- 6 pre-programmed buttons
- Black enclosure
- Interior lighting
- Removal glass turntable
Reason to Buy
- Glossy design
- 30 seconds express cooking
- Clock and kitchen timer
- Easy-to-read control panel
- Easy access door
Limitation
- Loud noise
Overall Rating: 9.5 out of 10
4. Best Compact: Farberware Countertop Microwave 1.1 Cu. Ft. 1000-Watt Compact Microwave Oven
The Farberware Countertop Microwave is perfect for those who need a compact microwave oven. With a 1.1 cubic foot capacity and 1000 watts of cooking power, this microwave oven can handle various cooking tasks, from defrosting to reheating and cooking, which it can not do. The modern design fits seamlessly into any kitchen. Its LED display’s smart interior gives an amazing view of your food. At the same time, the easy-to-use controls make it simple to set cooking time and power levels. Other features include a child safety lock and a turntable that rotates food for cooking. Not to mention that, it’s time to upgrade your kitchen appliances with the Farberware Countertop Microwave.
Specifications
Product Dimensions : 16.54″D x 20.2″W x 12.03″H
Brand: Farberware
Capacity: 1.1 Cubic Feet
Installation Type: Countertop
Wattage: 1000 watts
Color: Stainless
Key Features
- 6 easy cooking programs
- 10 different power levels
- One year warranty
- LED display with timer
- Defrost by time or weight
Reason to Buy
- Great exterior look
- Quick access door
- One-touch cooking buttons
- Security lock functions
- Additional cooking timer button
Limitation
- A little bit of loud noise
Overall Rating: 9.5 out of 10
5. Best Commercial: Sharp R-21LCFS Medium-Duty Commercial Microwave Oven
Whether you are a restaurant owner or want to use microwaves commercially, Sharp R-21LCFS is perfect. The Sharp R-21LCFS microwave oven has come with modern technology. That considers quality, design, and value. It also has a glossy format with a large opening handle.
Although it doesn’t have an auto timer option, it has a classic timer button, as you can set the time from 10 seconds to 10 minutes according to your food items. Need to bake pizza instantly? Need to reheat the burger? Put into the Sharp commercial microwave and set the timer on 30 minutes for pizza and 2 minutes for a burger. Can you imagine the cheese inside your burger melting? How about you can see it from the outside because of its interior lighting? Together with, stainless steel interior gave it a commercial look.
Specifications
Product Dimensions : 16″D x 21″W x 12″H
Brand: SHARP
Capacity: 1 Cubic Feet
Installation Type: Countertop
Wattage: 1000
Color: Gray
Key Features
- Bright LED interior
- Energy efficient
- Commercial exterior design
- Classic dial timer
- Automatic cancel timer
Reason to Buy
- Easy to operate
- Easy to clean
- Advanced technology
- Nice safety feature
- Easy access door handle
Limitation
- Defrost mode unavailable
Overall Rating: 9.5 out of 10
6. Best Over The Range: SMETA Over The Range Microwave Oven
Although this may be true that over-the-range microwaves are much more expensive because of their special features. Some People like these types of microwaves because of their space-consuming features. Among all over-the-range microwave ovens, SMETA Over The Range Microwave Oven is much more special. These brands considered the quality with the budget.
In particular, you can use the over-the-range instead of the range hood. For instant daily cooking, it has instant cooking menus. With a capacity of 1.6 cubic feet, the oven helps to cook huge amounts of food daily—the digital display and touch control help to cook food in a few seconds. As an illustration, defrost, eco-saving, and ventilation systems are general. To say nothing about the ventilation. That offers to keep your kitchen clean and fresh.
Specifications
Product Dimensions : 19.4″D x 33.4″W x 21″H
Brand: SMETA
Capacity: 1.6 Cubic Feet
Installation Type: Over-the-Range
Wattage: 1000 watts
Color: Stainless Steel
Key Features
- Ventilation fan
- 3 defrost modes available
- Power saving mode
- Auto cook menu
- Bottom light
Reason to Buy
- Low wattage
- Good for small space
- Affordable price
- Perfect reheat button
- Suitable for multiple application
Limitation
- A little louder noise
Overall Rating: 9.2 out of 10
7. Best Low Profile: KoolMore KM-MLPOT-1SS 30 Inch Over-The-Range Low Profile Microwave
Want to maximize your kitchen storage space? The right decision will be the KoolMore KM-MLPOT-1SS 30 Inch Over-The-Range Low Profile Microwave. With its stylish and versatile look, it makes your kitchen more gorgeous. Conventional cooking is very popular with its lovers as well. Truly the microwave has high-performance heat ventilation that removes smoke, odors, and even moisture to improve cooking effectiveness. Subsequently, cooking time, defrost time, power levels, and control panel are also available.
Specifications
Product Dimensions : 18.6″D x 29.88″W x 10.3″H
Brand: KoolMore
Capacity: 1.2 Cubic Feet
Installation Type: Over-the-Range
Wattage: 1000 watts
Color: Silver
Key Features
- Versatile stainless steel microwave
- Quick and efficient ventilation
- Weight based defrost
- 10 independent power settings
- Easy control touch panel
Reason to Buy
- Slim design
- Powerful ventilation
- Easy to install
- Easy to operate
- Transparent window
Limitation
- Auto defrost unavailable
Overall Rating: 9 out of 10
8. Best Small: Hamilton Beach 0.9 cu.ft. 900W Microwave Oven
Love countertop microwave ovens? But need more space on the kitchen counter? No worries at all! You can replace your small counter with Hamilton Beach 0.9 Cu. Ft. 900W Microwave Oven. That is worth it for your tiny kitchen. Specifically, it has 900 wattage and 10 adjustable power levels. Including an easy touchpad makes the dishes easy. For by Hamilton allows you to cook potatoes to beverages in one touch, which is mind-blowing. More importantly, its design is familiar with consistent heating.
Specifications
Product Dimensions : 11.06″D x 19.02″W x 15.6″H
Brand: Hamilton Beach
Capacity: 0.9 Cubic Feet
Installation Type: Countertop
Wattage: 900 watts
Color: Stainless Steel
Key Features
- Safety lock available
- Easy touchpad
- Capacity 0.9 cubic feet
- Sharp design
- Countertop installation
Reason to Buy
- Low noise level
- Easy to use
- Take less cooking time
- Easy to clean
- Best for small space
Limitation
- Small in size
Overall Rating: 9.3 out of 10
9. Best Convection: SAMSUNG 1.2 Cu Ft PowerGrill Duo Countertop Microwave Oven w/ Power Convection
Nowadays, convection ovens are more popular than microwave ovens. Eventually, convection ovens give all types of cooking solutions, but microwaves can’t. So, hit the mark on SAMSUNG 1.2 Cu Ft PowerGrill Duo Countertop Microwave Oven w/ Power Convection. Its convection settings help to flow the heat through the oven. Rather this helps to cook 30% faster than a traditional oven. Other key points are flexible installation, sleek design, and built-in features; even you will get the proper crispness on your food. There is also a wide grill heater that offers heat up to 1650 watts.
Specifications
Product Dimensions : 18.5″D x 20.8″W x 15.9″H
Brand: SAMSUNG
Capacity: 1.2 Cubic Feet
Installation Type: Countertop
Wattage: 900 Watt
Color: Black
Key Features
- Has power convection technology
- Cooked crispy inside and out in a minute
- Has a ceramic enamel interior
- Glass touch controls
- Premium look
Reason to Buy
- Stainless steel finish
- Built-in capability
- Fingerprint resistant
- Comfort to use
- Easy to clean
Limitation
- No quick timer
Overall Rating: 9 out of 10
10. Best Budget: GE 3-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven
Who doesn’t want to get products at a minimum price with high expectations? GE 3-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven proffers such types of service. GE is the best budget microwave oven according to its price and specialties. Furthermore, it has an air fry mode, convection mode, and also broil mode. Consequently, you can get crisp fry with golden brown results, even caramelized food. Plus, the GE countertop microwave oven has a perfect size, design, and food cooking balance. Then, you can easily use it in the dorm, kitchen, and office. In light of features, the budget is much more inexpensive. Get the best budget microwave oven on time as soon as possible.
Specifications
Product Dimensions : 16.6″D x 20.6″W x 11.88″H
Brand: GE
Capacity: 1 Cubic Feet
Installation Type: Countertop
Wattage: 1050 watts
Color: Stainless Steel
Key Features
- Air fryer, convection & broil mode
- Auto defrost
- Auto timer
- Stainless steel exterior
- Preset controls
Reason to Buy
- Express cooking
- Auto defrost & time
- Budget-friendly
- Easy and quick cooking
- Easy to use
Limitation
- Unable to bake like a standard oven
Overall Rating: 9.5 out of 10
Types of Microwave Ovens
Various types of microwaves are available on the market. They have different features according to installation, wattage, cooking time, etc. Here are the 5 types of microwaves. By those, you can know the types quickly and choose the best and perfect one for your kitchen. Let’s have a look-
Countertop Microwaves
Countertop microwaves are made for kitchen countertops. These are simple to set up on the kitchen counter. The countertop microwaves are very flexible and easy to use. Some countertops can be installed on the kitchen cabinet, or you can move them if you move your home.
| Pros | Cons |
| Easy to install, affordable | Need much space |
Built-In Microwaves
Built-in microwaves have to be installed on the wall. Otherwise, you can also install existing cabinetry. You can even install the microwaves underneath the counter like a drawer. These types of microwaves offer a lot of space in your kitchen. They are available in different sizes and wattages.
| Pros | Cons |
| Offers sleek and custom look | Expensive |
Convection Microwaves oven
Convection microwaves provide both features convection and microwave. Same as a convection oven, the convection microwave has a fan that circulates heat through the oven. So, you can roast and bake anything easily, even though microwave characteristics are also available. Everything from pizza to roasted chicken and baking items is easy for it.
| Pros | Cons |
| 2 in one features | Complex to use |
Low Profile Microwaves
Like over-the-range, microwaves can be installed on the cooktop, underneath the cabinet, or on the range. These kinds of microwaves are very space-saving. The low profile is best for those conscious about their cooktop space. Yet, microwaves provide a roomy interior and powerful cooking features.
| Pros | Cons |
| Sleek & modern look | Limited vertical space |
Over The Range Microwaves
Over the range, microwaves have to be installed over the cooktop. It is very similar to low-profile microwaves. It also gives much more space in your kitchen and gives it a modern look.
| Pros | Cons |
| Vent the steam and smoke outside | Kitchen can quickly get steamy or smoky |
Factors to Consider Before Buying – Best Budget Microwave Ovens
There are many factors you have to consider before buying the best affordable microwaves. There are some key factors that you must check when buying a microwave oven. So, get into our cutting corners and choose the microwaves as easy as pie.
Size & Capacity
Size & capacity are the most common and essential factors to consider when buying a microwave oven. The size of the microwave depends on your kitchen space. You can pick out a large microwave if you have a big kitchen.
Wattage
Wattage is the second essential term that has to be considered when buying a microwave. Generally, the wattage of microwaves is between 600 watts to 2100 watts. It varies in accord with size and capacity. Let’s clarify the microwave confirming the wattage range.
Affordable Microwaves: An inexpensive microwave oven’s wattage is 600 to 800 watts. The most undeniable part of these microwaves is- instant cooking features with intelligent sensors.
High-End Microwaves: High-end microwaves offer 800- 1000 watts. You can cook as fast as possible with these microwaves. Sometimes it may burn your food.
Commercial Microwaves: Commercial microwaves propose a massive wattage of 1000 to 1200 watts. These are used in restaurants, bakeries, and commercial places.
Price
Price is a crucial part of purchasing. If you would like to buy luxurious microwaves while looking and working, you must compromise with price. You will find different types of microwaves under $50, $30, and many more! However, you will get the best microwaves quickly on your budget. Let’s take a tour of the price range of microwaves –
| Types | Price |
| Small Size | Stars from $50 |
| Medium size | Starts from $100 |
| OTR | Stars from $200 |
Noise Level
Everybody wants to buy low-noise appliances. Some microwaves give louder noise, and some lower. The primary noise level of a microwave is 55 decibels to 59 decibels. It is easier to tolerate if the noise level is at most 59 decibels.
Safety
Now come to the main point. Safety is necessary when using any electric appliance. Sometimes it may be damaged or burnt. Even an electric short circuit can happen. Therefore, the microwave plug should be placed properly as it does not harm your home. We are encouraging you to know the microwave’s safety tips.
How Did We Find the Best Budget Microwave Ovens?
Our kitchen appliance testing team was eager to find the best affordable microwaves. They tried their best to find out the best ten microwaves. We are excited to tell you how we can perceive the best 10.
Cooking Test
We tested how each microwave cooks. We cooked similar stuff in each microwave and heated them at a high temperature to find out at which temperature the food dries up. Apart from that, we also reheat the microwaves several times as we can find out how the microwaves maintain temperature. At that time, many of them lost their lives. On the other hand, the best ovens cook food as early as possible without drying up the food.
Defrosting Test
We used lean minced mutton frozen for 24 hours for the defrosting test. Then we set the microwave for defrosting according to the instructions. We kept records of the difference between the highest and lowest temperatures. Besides, we defrosted by using the auto defrost menu.
Steaming Test
The steaming test is relatively easy. You need some vegetables and water in a bowl. Aside from that, you also can steam potatoes, broccoli, or salmon as we did! We examine all parts of food. Are they cooked properly or not? Some microwaves cooked well and properly, while others cooked improperly.
Noise Test
We tested the microwave ovens by using the highest temperature. Some microwaves gave sounds under 47 decibels, and others gave more than 63 decibels. We repeat the best noise level of microwaves is between 55 decibels to 59 decibels.
Easy-to-Use Test
We confirm the test in the agreement of how quickly their auto and digital features can use microwaves. The best microwaves are very handy to use. Some microwaves were very complex. For that, you need to follow the manual instructions.
Are the Best Microwave Ovens Worth the Money?
Obviously! Why not? If you are very eager to buy a microwave oven then you must face the music and blow off the steam. The best budget microwave ovens are listed not only for design and outlook. In the case of finding out the best we considered the value, budget, style, brand, power & the most important one is output.
We don’t want to waste your valuable time, we want to cut to the chase. You can trust us without any hesitation. We reviewed the best microwaves by doing extensive research. Into the bargain, we also took online reviews about the top 10. Whenever you look for the best thing that would break the bank but in the best microwaves you get all that you need on a small budget.
Top Pick
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven is the best budget microwave oven. While we researched this microwave surprised us many times. It gave high output for all types of tests. That’s why we recommend you try TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS. Literally, you will not go with a heavy heart. The design, model, and working capability all are awesome.
FAQs
- What is the best inexpensive microwave in 2024?
The best inexpensive microwave is the Hamilton Beach Microwave Oven. This microwave is small in size. This small size offers a tiny counter space. Because of the small features, it doesn’t provide a small service. It gives all types of features that a microwave must carry.
- What is the best budget microwave oven on the market?
GE 3-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven is the best budget microwave oven. You will find all the best features in this microwave. Nonetheless, this brand offers the best features, and the most important thing is that it is budget-friendly.
- Why is the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS microwave the best choice?
Toshiba EM131A5C-BS microwave is the best choice for all. The main reason behind it is the outstanding features. Everyone needs to be budget-friendly and also high-quality. Toshiba keeps in mind the theory of low-budget best quality.
Final Verdict
The best budget microwave ovens are best for their features. They are different according to their additional features. So get into our depth review and choose one according to your mind.
By the same token, we are requesting you not to buy a lemon. It is a hard nut to crack to find the best affordable microwave oven. But we keep it simpler for you by sharing our researched results. It is high time to keep your kitchen well-decorated on your budget.
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