The Best Cheap Microwaves Under $150 to Add to Your Kitchen
These compact and budget-friendly appliances are great for smaller kitchens, or even for students living in dorms.
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Not all microwaves have the same power and heating abilities, but shopping on a budget doesn’t have to mean sacrificing performance. The best cheap microwaves under $150—or even under $100— generally have a basic, no-frills design and lower wattage, but they can still heat up food and defrost meat just as well as their more expensive counterparts. Reputable brands like GE, Black+Decker, and Toshiba all have affordable models, some of which have advanced features like Wi-Fi connectivity and humidity sensors. Plus, their compact size will take up less counter space in your kitchen—and who can complain about that?
Here’s what you’ll want to look for as you shop, as well as our picks for the best cheap microwaves available today.
The Best Cheap Microwaves
- Best Overall: BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven
- Best Budget: Faberware Compact Countertop Microwave Oven
- Best Stainless Steel: GE Countertop Microwave
- Best Large Capacity: Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave
- Best Custom Settings: Faberware Classic Microwave
What to Consider
In addition to the price point, there are several important features you’ll want to consider as you decide which microwave is best for your kitchen:
Type
There are three different types of microwaves on the market: conventional, convection, and inverter. Conventional microwaves do standard reheating by emitting microwaves of energy to heat food, while convection microwaves (also known as microwave ovens) also have a heating element that can roast food more like a standard oven. Inverter microwaves, on the other hand, use a special type of circuit that provides a constant amount of power throughout the cooking time without cutting in and out.
If you’re shopping on a budget, the majority of appliances under $150 are conventional microwaves. However, you may be able to find a convection or inverter model at this price point during sales.
Installation
There are several styles of microwaves available today, including countertop, over-the-range, and built-in models. However, if you’re shopping with a budget of $150 or less, the majority of your options are going to be countertop, which tend to be the most budget-friendly. The good news is that countertop microwaves are the easiest style to install—just plug them in and they’re ready to go—and they’re also renter-friendly, as you can take them with you when you move.
Wattage
Wattage of 1,000 or more cooks food evenly and efficiently, but higher-powered microwaves are generally more expensive. Many of the cheapest appliances have a baseline around 700-900 watts, which gets the job done—just not as quickly as more powerful options.
Dimensions
Take time to consider both the inner and outer dimensions of the microwave as well. Many are measured by cubic feet—typically ranging from 0.7 cubic feet to over 2 cubic feet—though you’ll also want to measure your dinner plates to compare with the inner dimensions to make sure they can fit properly.
How We Selected
Wattage of 1,000 or more cooks food evenly and efficiently, but higher-powered microwaves are generally more expensive. Many of the cheapest appliances have a baseline around 700-900 watts, which gets the job done—just not as quickly as more powerful options.
All of the microwaves featured on this list are less than $150, and in addition to price, I looked at their capacity, dimensions, power level, and settings. I selected models that offer the most power and versatility for the price, and I prioritized brands I’ve personally used and trust, such as Black+Decker, GE, and Toshiba.
For more great kitchen appliance advice, check out our picks for the best smart ovens, the best toaster ovens, and the best outdoor pizza ovens.
Camryn Rabideau is a freelance writer and product reviewer specializing in home, kitchen, and pet products. In her four years as a product tester, she's tested hundreds of items firsthand, and her work appears in publications such as Forbes, USA Today, The Spruce, Food52, and more.
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