Best Cheap Countertop Microwaves: Top 10 Picks

The best cheap countertop microwave ovens deliver essential heating and reheating convenience without breaking the bank, making them perfect for students, small households, and anyone on a budget. Selecting the right option involves considering factors like capacity, power output, and pre-programmed settings, as a mismatch can lead to wasted space or inefficient cooking. Without careful attention to these details, you might end up with a microwave that barely fits your needs or takes longer to heat your food.

To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best cheap countertop microwave ovens for 2026, ensuring you find a reliable and affordable appliance. This roundup will guide you toward a model that precisely matches your culinary requirements and kitchen setup.

For accessible and budget-friendly cooking, consider compact countertop microwave ovens that offer 700 watts of power and features like pre-programmed buttons for common items such as popcorn and pizza. Several models, including the Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft.

and Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft., provide these convenient presets within a smaller footprint.

Additionally, look for microwaves with a mute function, such as the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB, for quieter operation.

Best Cheap Countertop Microwave Ovens at a Glance

Image	Product	Buy
Best Pick 1	Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with Best for: Minimalist cooks	Check Price
Best Pick 2	Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Best for: Starter kitchens	Check Price
Best Pick 3	TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Best for: Quiet operation	Check Price
Best Pick 4	COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode Best for: Eco-conscious users	Check Price
Best Pick 5	BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Best for: Family-friendly	Check Price

How We Picked

To identify the best cheap countertop microwave ovens for 2026, we prioritized build quality and real-world performance alongside essential safety features. We examined wattage, capacity, and preset cooking options across models like the Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft.

and the Black+Decker 900W. Durability was assessed by looking for robust construction and user reviews.

Standout features such as child lock functions (seen in TOSHIBA and COMFEE models) and sound-off modes were considered crucial. Models lacking clear indications of dependable performance or essential safety were ruled out, ensuring our selections offer excellent value and user satisfaction.

What Most Buyers Get Wrong

Wattage vs. Speed: Decoding Microwave Power

When shopping for a budget-friendly microwave, don’t let wattage be the only deciding factor. While higher wattage generally means faster cooking, the internal design and cavity size also play a role. Look for models like the BLACK+DECKER with 900 watts for quicker reheating, or understand that a 700-watt oven, like the Chefman or Farberware, can still be perfectly effective for everyday tasks if you adjust your expectations slightly for cook times.

Navigating Preset Pitfalls and Mute Options

Many affordable microwaves offer one-touch presets for common items like popcorn or potatoes. However, these can sometimes be a bit hit-or-miss. For more precise control, consider models with clear power level settings, such as the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 with 10 settings.

Also, if kitchen noise is a concern, features like the mute function on the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB are incredibly valuable, allowing you to reheat without disruptive beeps.

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

Best for: Quick meal prep with presets.

Six popular presets like popcorn and pizza on this 700W Chefman microwave allow for rapid meal preparation, simply select the desired food type and let the microwave do the rest for convenient reheating or cooking.

This 700W digital microwave offers 10 distinct power levels, enabling adjustments from low for melting butter to max for swift cooking. Its compact size means it won’t dominate your countertop, making it ideal for smaller kitchens.

Pros

• 10 power levels for precise control
• Six convenient presets for common foods
• 700W output for efficient heating
• Mute button for quiet operation

Cons

• Air Fry and Bake functions are not true culinary replacements.

For individuals seeking quick and easy meal solutions, this Chefman microwave offers straightforward operation with popular presets. Its compact footprint is suitable for studio apartments or office break rooms.

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

Best for: Versatile cooking with 10 power levels.

Ten power levels and multi-stage cooking on this 700W Farberware microwave allow for complete customization of your cooking needs, from gentle defrosting to powerful reheating.

With a 0.7 cu. ft. capacity, this microwave accommodates standard dinner plates while maintaining a compact footprint. It features six one-touch options for popular items like popcorn and potato, plus time or weight defrosting.

Pros

• 10 power levels for cooking flexibility
• Six one-touch cooking programs
• Defrost by weight or time
• Suitable for basic meal prep

Cons

• Limited capacity for larger dishes.

The Farberware 0.7 cu. ft. microwave is a good choice for dorm rooms or small apartments where basic reheating and quick meal preparation are primary needs. Its straightforward controls simplify daily use.

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

Best for: Higher wattage for faster cooking.

A 900-watt microwave output on the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) means faster cooking and reheating times for your meals, saving you valuable minutes during busy periods.

This compact microwave has external dimensions of 18.7×14.7×10.7 inches, fitting easily on countertops. Its 0.9 cu. ft. capacity is complemented by 11 power levels and 6 auto menus for effortless meal preparation.

Pros

• Powerful 900W output for efficiency
• 11 power levels for precise control
• 10.6-inch glass turntable fits standard plates
• Child lock for safety

Cons

• Input power is 1400 watts, requiring adequate circuit capacity.

For those who need a bit more power and faster cooking, this 900W TOSHIBA microwave is ideal. It’s well-suited for small families or individuals in apartments looking for efficient reheating.

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

Best for: Quiet operation with sound off option.

The COMFEE’ 700W microwave features a mute function, allowing you to turn off all beeps for a quiet cooking experience, perfect for early mornings or late-night snacks.

This microwave offers easy one-touch express cooking for 1-6 minutes, plus a +30 second function. It includes two defrost settings (by weight or time) and nine auto-cook functions for added convenience in a compact frame.

Pros

• Mute function for quiet operation
• Easy express cooking (1-6 min)
• Two defrost settings
• ECO Mode reduces standby power usage

Cons

• Voltage is 110V, may require adapter in some regions.

This COMFEE’ microwave is a great option for shared spaces like dorms or offices where noise is a concern, thanks to its mute function. It offers simple operation for everyday reheating needs.

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

Best for: Easy access with push-button door.

A simple push-button door release on this BLACK+DECKER microwave provides easy access to the interior, making it convenient for quick use.

This 700-watt microwave features 10 power settings, a clock, and a kitchen timer, alongside a 30 Seconds Express Cooking function. Its large LED display and easy-to-read control panel are complemented by a removable 10” glass turntable.

Pros

• Push-button door for easy access
• 10 power settings
• 30 Seconds Express Cooking
• Child safety lock included

Cons

• Requires 110V voltage, check compatibility.

Ideal for students or individuals in compact living spaces, this BLACK+DECKER microwave offers user-friendly features. The push-button door and express cook function make it a convenient choice for daily reheating.

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

Best for: Higher wattage for faster cook times.

A 900W output from this BLACK+DECKER microwave significantly cuts down cooking and reheating times, making meal preparation more efficient.

This digital microwave boasts 10 power settings, a clock, and a kitchen timer, plus a 30-second express cooking option. It includes a removable 10.6-inch glass turntable and a child safety lock for added security.

Pros

• 900W for faster cooking
• 10 power settings
• Large LED display for readability
• Child safety lock for security

Cons

• Interior light may be dim for some users.

For those who need a slightly more powerful microwave for quicker results, this 900W BLACK+DECKER is a solid choice. It’s suitable for apartments or small kitchens needing reliable reheating.

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

Best for: Compact size for small kitchens.

The compact design of this FRIGIDAIRE 700W microwave makes it an ideal fit for dorm rooms, apartment kitchens, or office spaces where counter space is limited.

With a digital control panel, this microwave offers user-friendly options for express cooking, power level adjustments, and delayed start. It provides two defrost timers for controlled thawing and a 0.7 cu. ft. capacity.

Pros

• Compact size fits small spaces
• Digital control panel for ease of use
• Two defrost timers
• 700W power for basic needs

Cons

• Only 6 cooking programs available.

This FRIGIDAIRE microwave is perfect for individuals in tight living quarters like dorms or studio apartments, offering essential functions in a small package. Its digital panel makes basic operation simple.

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

Best for: Largest capacity at 1.1 Cu. Ft.

A generous 1.1 cu. ft. interior capacity in this GE microwave means you can easily fit larger dishes, bowls, or multiple items for more substantial meal preparation.

This 950-watt microwave features a glass turntable that rotates for even cooking. It offers simple one-touch operation with convenience cooking controls, a kitchen timer, and a two-step child lock for safety.

Pros

• Spacious 1.1 cu. ft. interior
• Powerful 950W output
• One-touch convenience controls
• Two-step child lock for safety

Cons

• Exterior dimensions are larger than most compact models.

For those who need more space for cooking and reheating, this GE 1.1 cu. ft. microwave offers ample room and power. It’s ideal for families or individuals who frequently prepare larger meals.

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

Best for: Balanced capacity and footprint.

With a 0.9 cu. ft. capacity, this BLACK+DECKER microwave fits standard dinner plates and most meal-sized containers without taking up excessive counter space.

This 900W countertop microwave includes six one-touch programs for popcorn, potato, and more, simplifying meal prep. It measures 18.6 x 13.6 x 10.7 inches, making it a space-saving solution for apartments and offices.

Pros

• 0.9 cu. ft. capacity fits dinner plates
• 6 preset menus for easy cooking
• 900W for efficient heating
• Express cooking feature for instant start

Cons

• Button interface can be less intuitive than touch screens.

This BLACK+DECKER 0.9 cu. ft. microwave is a good mid-size option for apartments or small kitchens needing to reheat standard meal portions. The preset menus offer convenience for quick meals.

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

Best for: Simple operation with one-touch controls.

The GE 700W microwave features simple, one-touch operation, making it incredibly easy to use for quick reheating or cooking tasks.

This compact 0.7 cu. ft. microwave delivers 700 watts of power for efficient performance. It includes a glass turntable that rotates for even cooking and a two-step child lock to prevent accidental use.

Pros

• Easy one-touch controls
• 0.7 cu. ft. compact size
• 700W power for everyday use
• Two-step child lock for safety

Cons

• Only 6 cooking programs are available.

Anyone looking for a straightforward, easy-to-use microwave for basic food preparation will appreciate this GE model. Its compact size is perfect for small kitchens or as a secondary microwave.

Wattage vs. Capacity Trade-Offs

When selecting a best cheap countertop microwave ovens, the fundamental trade-off revolves around wattage versus interior capacity; prioritize one and you will inherently compromise on the other, a reality poorly understood by many shoppers.

The majority of low-cost countertop microwaves cluster around 0.7 to 0.9 cubic feet of internal space and 700 to 900 watts of cooking power. This is not accidental; it represents the sweet spot for manufacturing efficiency and provides adequate functionality for basic reheating and popcorn popping. For instance, the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu.

Ft., 700 Watts and the Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft.

Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts embody this common configuration. Their 700 watts of power are sufficient for quickly heating beverages or reheating leftovers, and their compact 0.7 cu. ft.

capacity means they occupy minimal counter space. However, these units will struggle with larger items or tasks requiring more thorough cooking, such as defrosting a family-sized roast.

For those needing more significant oven space, the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 1.1 Cubic Ft., 950-watt Capacity, stands out. Its larger 1.1 cu. ft.

interior directly accommodates bigger dishes and allows for more even cooking due to increased space between the food and the oven walls. Crucially, it pairs this expanded capacity with a higher 950-watt output, meaning it can still heat food efficiently, unlike some larger microwaves that sacrifice power for size.

This increased wattage also means pre-programmed settings on models like the BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety, which offers 900 Watts, will complete their tasks faster and more effectively than their 700-watt counterparts, even if the capacity difference is only marginal between some 0.7 and 0.9 cu. ft. models.

The real distinction, therefore, lies in understanding your primary use case. If your demands are limited to quick re-heats and single servings, the more compact and ubiquitous 0.7 cu. ft., 700-watt models, like the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute, will suffice and save valuable counter space.

However, for households that frequently prepare larger meals or require more versatility, investing in a slightly larger capacity unit with higher wattage, such as the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 1.1 Cubic Ft., 950-watt Capacity, offers a tangible upgrade in utility for a marginal increase in footprint and price.

What to Look For in Best Cheap Countertop Microwave Ovens

Capacity and size

When selecting a cheap countertop microwave, prioritize interior capacity over external footprint. For most single users or small households, a 0.7 to 1.0 cubic feet interior is ample. Look for microwaves measuring no more than 20 inches wide to ensure it fits comfortably on your counter without protruding excessively.

A wider door opening, often 12 inches or more, makes it easier to fit standard dinner plates and bowls without scraping. Aim for a compact exterior with a generous interior.

Power levels and cooking presets

For fast and efficient heating, focus on microwaves with at least 900 watts of power. This wattage ensures food is heated through quickly and evenly, a key benefit of microwave cooking. While many cheap models offer multiple power levels, prioritize those with at least 10 settings for versatility.

Crucially, ensure the microwave includes a dedicated weight or time defrost function; a reliable defrost is more important than a plethora of specialized autocook menus which often overcook. Choose at least 900 watts and a solid defrost feature.

Ease of use and cleaning

Opt for a microwave with a clear, easy-to-read digital display and a straightforward control panel. Buttons that are clearly labeled and logically grouped save frustration during operation. For cleaning, look for an interior coating that is a non-stick enamel or similar smooth material; these wipe clean with minimal effort.

Avoid models with textured interiors that trap food particles. A simple panel and a smooth, stain-resistant interior are essential for daily convenience.

Choose models with prominent buttons and an enamel interior.

Which Should You Choose?

• If you need a microwave for a small kitchen or dorm room, choose a compact 0.7 cu. ft. model.
• If you have young children, choose a model with a two-step child lock feature.
• If you want to save time and simplify cooking, choose a model with multiple pre-programmed settings for common foods.
• If noise is a concern, choose a model with a mute function.

Quick Best Cheap Countertop Microwave Ovens Buying Checklist

• Check Interior Dimensions: Ensure there’s enough space for your go-to dishes, like dinner plates or casserole dishes.
• Verify Exterior Footprint: Measure your counter space to confirm the microwave fits comfortably without obstructing walkways.
• Evaluate Wattage: Higher wattage generally means faster heating and cooking times, crucial for busy kitchens.
• Consider Auto-Cook Options: Look for presets that match your typical meal preparation needs, such as popcorn, pizza, or baked potato.
• Inspect Control Panel: A user-friendly interface with clear buttons and a readable display makes operation simple.
• Assess Interior Coating: Easy-to-clean surfaces reduce maintenance effort and keep your microwave hygienic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Wattage Is Standard For Cheap Countertop Microwaves?

Standard wattage for affordable countertop microwaves typically ranges from 700 to 1200 watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking and heating capabilities, making it easier to prepare meals quickly. Most everyday tasks are well-covered by models in this range.

How Does Interior Capacity Affect Microwave Use?

Interior capacity, measured in cubic feet, directly impacts what you can fit inside your microwave. Larger capacities (over 1 cubic foot) accommodate bigger dishes like a whole chicken or multiple dinner plates. Smaller capacities are ideal for single servings or limited counter space.

Are Specific Cleaning Features Important For Budget Microwaves?

Yes, easy-to-clean interior surfaces are a valuable feature for any microwave, including budget models. Look for non-stick coatings or removable turntables that simplify wiping away spills and splatters. This makes maintenance significantly less of a chore.

What Kind Of Controls Are Common On Inexpensive Microwaves?

Inexpensive countertop microwaves usually feature digital displays with push-button controls, often with pre-set cooking functions. Some basic models might have simpler dial controls for power and time. Look for a layout that feels intuitive for your cooking habits.

Can I Defrost Food Efficiently With A Cheap Microwave?

Many affordable countertop microwaves include specific defrost settings, utilizing lower power levels to thaw frozen items without cooking them. These settings can be weight-based or time-based, offering convenience. It’s a standard feature on most budget-friendly models.

Final Words

Finding the best cheap countertop microwave ovens offers a practical solution for quick meals and reheating. These models provide essential functionality without breaking the bank, proving that convenience doesn’t always require a high price tag. Invest in one of these efficient appliances to streamline your kitchen routine today.