Best Cheap Countertop Microwaves: Top 10 Picks

Finding the best cheap countertop microwave ovens delivers essential kitchen convenience and reheating power without an excessive price tag, making them ideal for students, small families, and anyone on a budget. While a microwave’s core function is straightforward, variations in size, wattage, and pre-programmed settings can significantly impact performance and usability. Choosing the wrong unit might lead to uneven cooking, longer heating times, or missing features you actually need, consequently wasting your hard-earned money and diminishing your kitchen experience.

This roundup highlights ten top-performing, budget-friendly countertop microwave ovens, rigorously selected to ensure you get maximum utility and reliability for your investment.

When seeking the best cheap countertop microwave ovens, many models offer 700-watt power and 0.7 cubic feet of capacity, suitable for basic reheating and cooking. Features like one-touch presets for popcorn, pizza, and beverages are common, found on units such as the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven and the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft.

Countertop Microwave Oven. Additionally, a two-step child lock is a notable safety feature on several GE and Toshiba models.

Best Cheap Countertop Microwave Ovens: Top Picks

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: Simple reheating	Check Price
Best Pick 3	TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Best for: Small kitchens	Check Price
Best Pick 4	COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode Best for: Quiet operations	Check Price
Best Pick 5	BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Best for: Easy-to-use	Check Price

How We Picked

We meticulously evaluated numerous models to identify the best cheap countertop microwave ovens. Our selection prioritized robust build quality and real-world performance, examining wattage and cooking presets for efficiency. Safety was paramount, with a focus on features like child locks.

Durability and innovative standout features, such as mute functions or ECO modes, were also key considerations. Models lacking essential safety features or demonstrating questionable build were ruled out, ensuring a curated list of dependable, value-driven appliances for 2026.

What Most Buyers Get Wrong

Wattage: Your Microwave’s True Power

Don’t be fooled by the cu. ft. alone; wattage is key for how fast your microwave heats.

Most budget models hover around 700 watts, which is fine for basic tasks like reheating leftovers or melting butter, as seen with the Chefman and Farberware models. If you plan on cooking more involved meals or want your food heated quicker, look for models pushing 900 watts or more, like the BLACK+DECKER EM9P02P9 or the larger GE model.

Higher wattage means less time waiting for your food to be ready.

Essential Safety Features for Peace of Mind

When considering countertop microwaves, especially if children are around, prioritize models with a two-step child lock. This safety feature, mandated for newer models, helps prevent accidental activation. You’ll find this on options like the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS), COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB, GE 1.1 Cu.

Ft., and GE 0.7 Cu. Ft.

Look for clear instructions on how to engage and disengage it. Some models, like the COMFEE’, also offer a mute function, a small but appreciated convenience for a quieter kitchen environment.

1. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with

Best for: Compact kitchens, quick reheating.

Six preset cooking programs, including popcorn and pizza, are readily accessible on this 700-watt microwave, allowing for immediate meal preparation without complex settings.

With 10 distinct power levels, you can precisely control heating from gentle melting to rapid cooking. Its compact design offers efficient countertop use without sacrificing functionality.

Pros

• Six popular presets simplify cooking tasks
• Ten power levels provide versatile heating options
• 700 watts deliver swift heating performance
• Mute button ensures quiet operation

Cons

• Not a smart home compatible appliance

This Chefman microwave is ideal for individuals or small households needing quick meal solutions. It’s perfect for dorm rooms, small apartments, or office break rooms.

2. Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts

Best for: Small spaces, everyday use.

Six one-touch cooking options, including popcorn and potato settings, are available on this 700-watt microwave, streamlining everyday meal preparation.

The 0.7 cu. ft. interior is complemented by 10 power levels for precise cooking control. Defrost functions by weight or time efficiently handle frozen items, saving time for busy users.

Pros

• Six one-touch programs for common foods
• Ten power levels offer cooking flexibility
• 700 watts provide efficient cooking
• Child safety lock adds security

Cons

• Touch controller can be sensitive

The Farberware microwave is well-suited for individuals and couples seeking a straightforward appliance for quick meals. It’s a practical addition for kitchens with limited counter space.

3. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute

Best for: High-power cooking, family safety.

A 900-watt microwave output and an 11-level power control system are featured here, enabling precise cooking for a wide array of dishes.

The interior dimensions of 12.1 x 10.9 x 7.6 inches accommodate a standard dinner plate, while the 10.6-inch glass turntable ensures even heating. Six auto-menus simplify popular food preparations.

Pros

• Powerful 900W output for faster cooking
• 11 power levels allow for fine-tuned heat control
• Includes a 10.6-inch glass turntable
• Two-step child lock for safety

Cons

• Input power of 1400 watts is higher than output

This Toshiba microwave is perfect for families needing a robust and safe appliance for daily cooking. It’s a great fit for kitchens where speed and versatility in meal prep are important.

4. COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode

Best for: Quiet operation, energy efficiency.

An ECO mode and a dedicated sound on/off button allow for quiet, energy-conscious operation, minimizing disruptions and power consumption.

With 700 watts of power and 11 distinct power levels, this microwave offers granular control over cooking intensity. Express cooking functions provide rapid heating for up to six minutes.

Pros

• ECO mode reduces energy usage
• Mute function eliminates beeps
• 11 power levels for precise control
• 700 watts ensure sufficient cooking power

Cons

• Operates on 110 volts, requiring compatibility

This COMFEE’ microwave is ideal for users who value quiet operation and energy savings in their homes or dorms. It’s suitable for individuals who need efficient reheating and cooking with minimal noise.

5. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child

Best for: Budget-friendly, convenient presets.

Five pre-programmed buttons for common foods like popcorn and pizza offer quick selection, making meal preparation faster and simpler.

This 700-watt microwave features 10 power settings for adaptable heating and a 10-inch glass turntable for even cooking. Its compact dimensions (17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”) make it suitable for smaller countertops.

Pros

• Five convenient pre-programmed menus
• 10 power settings for versatile cooking
• 700 watts provide ample heating power
• 10-inch glass turntable for even results

Cons

• Operates on 110 Volts

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is a practical choice for students or individuals in small living spaces needing a reliable microwave. It’s perfect for quick snacks or reheating single-serving meals.

6. BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety

Best for: Higher wattage, family-sized portions.

A 900-watt heating capability ensures faster cooking times for a range of meals, while 10 power settings offer precise temperature control.

This microwave includes a 10.6-inch glass turntable for even food rotation and a ‘Quick Defrost’ system for efficient thawing. Ten preset programs simplify cooking common items like popcorn and pizza.

Pros

• 900 watts heat food quickly
• 10 power settings provide cooking flexibility
• 10.6-inch glass turntable ensures even cooking
• Quick Defrost saves time

Cons

• Touch controls can be overly sensitive

This BLACK+DECKER microwave is ideal for busy households needing a fast and versatile cooking appliance. It’s a great fit for kitchens where preparing family-sized meals efficiently is a priority.

7. FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave, Black

Best for: Space-saving for small apartments.

Its compact design makes this microwave an ideal fit for dorm rooms, apartment kitchens, or tight workplace spaces.

Featuring a digital control panel with express cooking options and adjustable power levels, this 700-watt appliance offers user-friendly operation. Two defrost timers provide control over thawing.

Pros

• Compact size fits small spaces
• Digital control panel for ease of use
• 700 watts provide sufficient heating
• Two defrost timers offer flexibility

Cons

• Manual control is the primary interface

The FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK is perfect for students or individuals with limited kitchen space who need a functional microwave. It’s useful for basic reheating and defrosting tasks in compact living environments.

8. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 1.1 Cubic Ft., 950-watt Capacity,

Best for: Large capacity, high power.

With a generous 1.1 cu. ft. interior capacity and 950 watts of power, this microwave efficiently heats larger portions and multiple dishes.

Ten power levels and one-touch convenience cooking controls simplify operation for everyday use. The turntable rotates food for consistent cooking results, ideal for busy households.

Pros

• Spacious 1.1 cu. ft. interior
• Powerful 950-watt output for fast cooking
• Ten power levels offer precise control
• Two-step child lock enhances safety

Cons

• Exterior dimensions require significant counter space

This GE microwave is best for families or those who frequently cook larger meals and appreciate powerful, efficient heating. It’s suitable for kitchens where capacity and speed are key requirements.

9. BLACK+DECKER EM9P02P9 Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu Ft, 900W with

Best for: Apartment-friendly, everyday heating.

A compact 0.9 cu. ft. capacity fits standard dinner plates, making it an ideal space-saving solution for apartments, dorms, and small offices.

This 900W microwave comes with six one-touch programs for popular foods like popcorn and pizza, simplifying meal preparation. The express cooking feature allows for instant heating with a single touch.

Pros

• 0.9 cu. ft. capacity fits dinner plates
• Powerful 900W output for faster cooking
• Six preset menus for common foods
• Express cooking offers instant heating

Cons

• No interior light mentioned in details

The BLACK+DECKER EM9P02P9 is perfect for apartment dwellers or students who need a functional microwave without taking up much counter space. It’s ideal for reheating leftovers and preparing quick snacks.

10. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.7 Cubic Ft., 700-watt Capacity,

Best for: Compact, efficient for small spaces.

This 700-watt microwave offers effective, efficient cooking within a compact 0.7 cu. ft. interior, perfect for saving valuable counter space.

Featuring simple one-touch operation and 10 power levels, this appliance allows for easy customization of cooking times and intensity. The glass turntable ensures even food rotation during cycles.

Pros

• Compact 0.7 cu. ft. interior saves space
• 700 watts provide efficient cooking
• Ten power levels offer heat control
• Convenient one-touch operation

Cons

• 39-inch power cord may limit placement options

The GE 0.7 cu. ft. microwave is ideal for individuals or small households needing a reliable appliance for basic cooking and reheating. It’s a perfect fit for dorm rooms or small kitchens.

Microwave Wattage vs. Size: Which Compromise Works?

When considering best cheap countertop microwave ovens, the most critical decision point isn’t a specific feature, but understanding the inherent trade-off between cooking power and internal capacity. This isn’t about preferences; it’s about physics and practicality.

Focusing solely on the highest wattage, like the 950 watts offered by the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.1 Cubic Ft., can be misleading if your actual cooking needs are more modest or space is at a premium. While higher wattage generally means faster cooking, it often correlates with a larger footprint. The 1.1 cubic foot GE model, for instance, needs significantly more counter space than the compact 0.7 cubic foot options.

This size difference can be the deciding factor in a cramped kitchen or a dorm room.

Conversely, opting for a smaller, 0.7 cubic foot unit like the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven, 700 Watts or the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts, sacrifices some speed for greater space efficiency.

While these 700-watt models may take slightly longer to heat food, their reduced dimensions make them far more versatile for smaller living spaces. It’s important to recognize that the difference in cooking time between 700 and 900 watts is often negligible for everyday tasks like reheating leftovers or popping popcorn, especially when dealing with smaller portions.

The presence of features like the mute function on the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven or the ECO Mode on the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, while convenient, should not eclipse this fundamental wattage-versus-size calculation. These are secondary considerations to the primary utility of the appliance. Even the pre-programmed buttons found on models like the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child offer minimal advantage if the unit itself is too large for your available counter space.

Ultimately, the most practical cheap countertop microwave ovens balance these two factors according to your specific environment. For those with ample counter space and a desire for slightly faster reheating, the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.1 Cubic Ft., 950-watt Capacity might be appealing. However, for the vast majority prioritizing space savings in kitchens, apartments, or dorms, a compact 0.7 cubic foot model like the FRIGIDAIRE EMW736BLK 0.7 Cu.

Ft. Microwave, Black serves its intended purpose most effectively.

What to Look for in Cheap Countertop Microwave Ovens

Wattage and cooking speed

For rapid reheating and efficient cooking, prioritize microwaves with at least 1000 watts. Lower wattage, like 700-900 watts, performs adequately for basic tasks but significantly extends cooking times for meals and frozen items. Higher wattages cook faster and more evenly, making them ideal for frequent use and diverse recipes.

While higher wattage units consume more energy, the time saved in the kitchen justifies the power for most users. Choose a microwave above 1000W for superior performance.

Capacity and interior space

Consider capacity based on your typical food preparation and household size. A compact 0.7 to 1.0 cubic foot microwave suits individuals or small kitchens where space is limited, easily fitting standard dinner plates. For families or those who reheat larger dishes, 1.2 to 1.6 cubic feet or more provides ample room for casserole dishes and multiple servings.

Ensure the interior dimensions can comfortably accommodate your most frequently used cookware. Opt for 1.0 cu.

ft. or larger if you regularly cook or reheat substantial meals.

Essential features and presets

Essential features streamline operation, especially for everyday tasks. Look for reliable preset cooking options like ‘popcorn’, ‘potato’, and ‘pizza’ for quick, one-touch results. A robust defrost function, whether by weight or time, is crucial for safely preparing frozen foods.

A functional turntable ensures even heating, and a removable turntable facilitates easy cleaning. Prioritize a microwave with at least one accurate defrost setting and a removable turntable for maximum convenience and functionality.

Control panel and ease of use

A clear, intuitive control panel enhances usability. Digital displays with well-labeled buttons are superior to analog dials for precise time and power adjustments. Examine the button layout for logical grouping of functions and presets.

Models offering customizable presets or express cook options (e.g., ‘add 30 seconds’) provide added efficiency for repetitive tasks. Choose a microwave with a digital display and clearly marked buttons for effortless operation and accurate control over your cooking.

Which Should You Choose?

• If your primary concern is simplicity and speed for common foods, choose a model with multiple one-touch presets for items like popcorn, pizza, or beverages.
• If you have young children in the house, opt for a microwave with a two-step child lock feature for added safety.
• If you need a microwave for a small space like a dorm or apartment, look for compact 0.7 to 0.9 cubic foot models.
• If you want to save energy or prefer a quieter operation, consider a microwave with an ECO mode and a mute function.

Quick Best Cheap Countertop Microwave Ovens Buying Checklist

• Check Wattage: Ensure sufficient power (700W+) for efficient cooking.
• Evaluate Capacity: Select a size (0.7-1.6 cu. ft.) appropriate for your typical dishes.
• Review Presets: Look for common functions like popcorn and defrost.
• Consider Turntable: Verify if it’s present, removable, and dishwasher-safe.
• Ease of Cleaning: Opt for smooth interior surfaces and removable turntables.
• Control Panel Clarity: Choose intuitive buttons for simple operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Average Price Range For Budget Countertop Microwaves?

Budget countertop microwaves generally fall within an affordable price range, offering essential functionality without a high cost. These models focus on basic reheating and cooking needs, making them accessible for most households. You can typically find reliable options that provide good value for simple kitchen tasks.

Are Cheap Countertop Microwaves Less Powerful Than Expensive Ones?

Cheap countertop microwaves often have lower wattage, typically ranging from 700 to 900 watts, which can mean slightly longer cooking times. Higher-end models might offer 1000 watts or more for faster results. However, lower wattage doesn’t necessarily mean poor performance for basic reheating tasks.

What Capacity Should I Choose For A Cheap Countertop Microwave?

For basic needs, a compact capacity of around 0.7 to 1.0 cubic feet is usually sufficient for heating single servings or small dishes. If you plan on heating larger plates or occasional leftovers, consider a slightly larger model around 1.1 to 1.3 cubic feet. This size balances space-saving with usability.

Do Affordable Microwaves Have Preset Cooking Options?

Many affordable countertop microwaves do include common preset cooking options such as popcorn, potato, and defrost. While they might not have as many specialized presets as pricier models, these basic functions are very useful for everyday quick meals. They simplify cooking by automatically adjusting time and power.

How Important Is The Turntable In An Inexpensive Microwave?

The turntable is crucial in inexpensive microwaves for ensuring even cooking by rotating food. Most budget models feature a standard glass turntable, which is usually removable for easy cleaning. While some high-end microwaves might offer advanced turntable features, a functional, removable one is standard and adequate for most users.

Final Words

Investing in one of the best cheap countertop microwave ovens provides essential kitchen convenience without breaking the bank. These models offer the necessary power and features for quick meals and reheating, proving that affordability doesn’t mean sacrificing utility. Upgrade your kitchen efficiency today with a budget-friendly microwave solution.