Comparison: Best Microwave Under $100 (Updated | Dec 8th)
Looking for a microwave that won’t break the bank but still delivers great performance? You’re not alone. We’ve tested and compared the top models under $100 to find the best value without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen or just need a reliable backup, we’ve got the real scoop on which microwaves are worth every penny. Let’s dive in.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for compact powerhouse: TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
- Best for smart sensor cook: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
- Best for memory-ready microwave: Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
- Best for mute child-lock: TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
- Best for easy-access door: BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
- Best for stainless steel style: BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
- Best for compact office fit: Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power
- Best for high-power flex: Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft.
- Best for eco energy saver: COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
- Best for retro power look: Nostalgia Retro 1000W Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu Ft Capacity – Child Safety Lock
Product Comparison: Best Microwave Under $100
Compact Powerhouse
TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, Perfect for Apartment, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Black Stainless Steel
TOSHIBA
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- Microwave output power 900 watts, input power 1400 watts. External dimensions 18.7x 14.7x 10.7 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 12.1 x 10.9 x 7.6 inches (WxDxH); includes 10.6-inch glass turntable.
- 6 Preset Menus: This compact microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potato and more.
- 11 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
- Mute Mode: If you wish to silence the beeping sound that signals the end of cooking, please long press on the button “8” For 3-5 seconds. The buzzer is automatically switched off after a long beep.
Smart Sensor Cook
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4″ Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior Black Color 1000W
TOSHIBA
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass turntable.
- Smart Sensor Technology for Optimal Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. Say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked dishes.
- 6 Preset Menus: This countertop microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like pizza, veggle, sensor reheat and more.
- 10 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
- Mute Mode: If yout want to mute the buzzer of the microwave, please long press on the button “8” For 3-5 seconds. The buzzer is automatically switched off after a long beep.
Memory-Ready Microwave
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black
Chefman
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 700W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button.
- MEMORY FUNCTION: Program frequently used countertop microwaves functions into the control panel for one-touch microwave food. All your daily favorites are easy to set up and start microwaving.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally, and you can disable the microwave control panel using the Lock Mode.
- MUTE OPTION: Silence this counter top microwave with the Audio Button, turning off any annoying beeps if you’re trying to stay quiet or not wake up your kids.
- MODERN DESIGN: This microwave countertop design fits in well alongside your other kitchen appliances. Its compact frame and sleek, black finish blend in well with any home décor. Plus, you can save power and disable the display when not in use with Eco Mode.
- EASY TO CLEAN: Don’t worry about grease or scuffs; this black microwave exterior is durable and wipes clean with a damp towel. Additionally, the glass turntable is top-rack dishwasher safe.
- TRUSTED QUALITY: cETL approved with advanced safety technology for long-lasting durability and a 1-year assurance provided by Chefman. 700W/120V-RJ55-7-V2
Mute Child-Lock
TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, Perfect for Apartments & Dorms, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Stainless Steel
TOSHIBA
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- Microwave output power 900 watts, input power 1400 watts. External dimensions 18.7x 14.7x 10.7 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 12.1 x 10.9 x 7.6 inches (WxDxH); includes 10.6-inch glass turntable.
- 6 Preset Menus: This compact microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potato and more.
- 11 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
- Mute Mode: If you wish to silence the beeping sound that signals the end of cooking, please long press on the button “8” For 3-5 seconds. The buzzer is automatically switched off after a long beep.
Easy-Access Door
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft
BLACK+DECKER
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.Voltage : 110 Volts.Rated Input Power(Microwave):1050W
- 700 Watts with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 Seconds Express Cooking
- Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 10” glass turntable
- Push-button door release for easy access
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”
- UL approved. One year limited
Stainless Steel Style
BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 1000W, 1.1cu.ft, Black & Stainless Steel, 1.1 Cu.ft
BLACK+DECKER
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.Frequency : 60 Hz
- 1000 Watts Output with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 seconds express cooking, Input power: 1600W
- Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 12.4” glass turntable
- Push-button door release for easy access
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 20.6” x 16.5” x 11.8”; Color of door frame is stainless steel, enclosure is black
Compact Office Fit
Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock – Black
Farberware
- CONVENIENT MICROWAVE: Prepare quick and easy meals in a snap with our powerful microwave. It packs 700 of output power and features a range of settings for press-and-go speed.
- POWERFUL SETTINGS: This microwave has ten power levels with multi-stage cooking. You can fully customize your cooking with six one-touch options, including popcorn, potato, and pizza. Defrost by weight or by time settings to make quick work of any task.
- PERFECT SIZE: Measuring 0.7 cu ft, this microwave is the ideal small-space solution that offers full-sized cooking in a compact space. It features an easy-to-clean interior and exterior and is perfect for the home or office.
- ALL YOU NEED: This microwave has a clear LED display with a kitchen timer and clock that lets you easily keep track of time. Easy-to-view interior lighting lets you keep an eye on your dish, and a child safety lock adds additional security.
- FARBERWARE: From weeknight favorites to family feasts they’ll never forget, Farberware helps today’s families craft the meals that make memories and bring everyone together.
High-Power Flex
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft., 900 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black
Chefman
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 900W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button.
- MEMORY FUNCTION: Program frequently used countertop microwaves functions into the control panel for one-touch microwave food. All your daily favorites are easy to set up and start microwaving.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally, and you can disable the microwave control panel using the Lock Mode.
- MUTE OPTION: Silence this counter top microwave with the Audio Button, turning off any annoying beeps if you’re trying to stay quiet or not wake up your kids.
- MODERN DESIGN: This microwave countertop design fits in alongside your other kitchen appliances. Its compact frame and sleek, black finish blend in well with any home décor. Plus, you can save power and disable the display when not in use with Eco Mode.
- EASY TO CLEAN: Don’t worry about grease or scuffs; this black microwave exterior is durable and wipes clean with a damp towel. Additionally, the glass turntable is top-rack dishwasher safe.
- TRUSTED QUALITY: cETL approved with advanced safety technology for long-lasting durability and a 1-year assurance provided by Chefman. 900W/120V-RJ55-9-V2
Eco Energy Saver
COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black
COMFEE’
- Mute function, settings, clock, kitchen timer, child safety lock, easy auto-cook functions: Popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen veggie, beverage, reheat
- One touch express cooking function with 1-6 minutes and plus30 seconds functions, and two defrost settings (by weight or by time)
- Energy Saving Eco Mode: Minimizing 50% standby power by turning on ECO mode
- Bright digital display, easy-to-read control panel, interior light and 10 inch glass turntable
- One year limited warranty. Express cooking options & silent mode
Retro Power Look
Nostalgia Retro 1000W Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu Ft Capacity – Child Safety Lock, 8 Auto-Cook Settings – Countertop Kitchen Appliance – White
Nostalgia
- POWERFUL 1000-WATT OVEN: This microwave packs a powerful punch with its 1000-watt oven, ensuring your meals are ready in no time.
- 1.1 CU FT CAPACITY: With a compact 1.1 cu. ft. capacity, you can easily fit a variety of dishes for reheating, cooking, or defrosting.
- ROTATING GLASS CAROUSEL: The rotating glass carousel ensures that your food is evenly heated, guaranteeing a delicious, consistent result every time.
- 8 AUTO COOK PROGRAMS & EXPRESS COOKING: Select an auto cook program covering 8 food types. The express cooking feature lets you whip up your meal in a flash.
- REHEAT & DEFROST PROGRAMS: Choose to quickly reheat a dish or defrost frozen food by weight or time for all your cooking needs.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What key specifications should I prioritize when picking a microwave under $100?
Focus on microwave output power, internal capacity, and the number of preset cooking programs. Higher wattage (e.g., 900‑1000 W) cooks food faster, while a 0.7‑1.1 cu ft cavity fits most everyday dishes. Additional features like child locks, mute functions, and easy‑defrost options add convenience and safety.
How does the Toshiba ML‑EM09PA compare to the Chefman 0.7 cu ft model in terms of power and size?
Both Tobishiba models deliver 900 W of output power, but the Toshiba’s internal dimensions (12.1 × 10.9 × 7.6 in) give it a slightly larger cooking space than Chefman’s 0.7 cu ft unit. The Chefman’s 700 W output is adequate for basic reheating, yet the Toshiba will heat food noticeably quicker.
Is a higher wattage always worth the extra cost for a budget microwave?
Higher wattage (900‑1000 W) reduces cooking time and improves even heating, which can be valuable for busy kitchens. However, models with 700 W, such as the Farberware or Black+Decker EM720CB7, still perform well for simple tasks and often come at a lower price point, making them a solid value for light use.
Which microwave offers the most versatile preset cooking options under $100?
The Toshiba EM131A5C-BS and the Black+Decker EM031MB11 both provide six preset menus covering popcorn, pizza, vegetables, and more, plus sensor or auto‑cook technology for precise results. The Chefman and Farberware models also include six presets, but the Toshiba’s Smart Sensor feature gives an edge in automatic power adjustments.
How important is a child safety lock when choosing a cheap microwave?
A child lock prevents accidental door opening and unintended operation, which is crucial for households with young children. Most models in this price range, including Toshiba, Chefman, and Black+Decker, incorporate two‑step or push‑button lock mechanisms, so you can prioritize this safety feature without sacrificing other functions.
Do I get better value from a microwave with a larger turntable or a more compact design?
A larger turntable (12‑inch) accommodates bigger plates and promotes even heating, as seen in the Toshiba EM131A5C-BS and Black+Decker EM031MB11. Compact models with 10‑inch turntables, like the Toshiba ML‑EM09PA, save counter space and are ideal for dorms or small kitchens, offering good value when space is limited.
What extra features should I look for to maximize value under $100?
Features such as mute or ECO mode, express cooking (1‑6 minutes plus 30‑second increments), and digital memory functions add convenience without raising the price. Models like the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB include an Eco mode that cuts standby power, while the Nostalgia Retro offers a retro design plus eight auto‑cook programs, delivering both style and functionality.