10 Best Microwave Ovens Under $100 2026 in the United States

The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a solid choice for those needing a budget-friendly, reliable microwave for small spaces like apartments or dorms. With 1000 watts of power, it can handle most cooking tasks efficiently. The 1.1 cu ft capacity strikes a balance between being compact and providing sufficient space for standard dishes. The turntable ensures even cooking, which is essential for achieving good results with a variety of foods.

Six one-touch cooking presets, including options for popular items like popcorn and pizza, make it very convenient for quick meals. Additionally, the defrost function—by time or weight—adds versatility. The LED display is clear and easy to read, and the child lock feature offers added safety, which is great for families with young children. Cleaning is made easier by the stainless-steel exterior and interior lighting that allows you to monitor your food without opening the door.

However, the control panel might feel a bit basic for those used to more advanced interfaces. Additionally, while the size is perfect for small spaces, it might be a bit limiting for larger households or those who frequently cook large meals. Weighing in at just 0.01 ounces according to the product description (which seems to be an error), the microwave is lightweight and easy to move if needed. In summary, this Farberware microwave offers exceptional value for its price with useful features and decent performance, making it well-suited for individuals or small families in need of a simple, effective microwave solution.

The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB is a budget-friendly countertop microwave oven with a wattage of 700 watts, which is suitable for basic heating tasks but may be slower for larger meals. With a compact capacity of 0.7 cubic feet, it's ideal for small kitchens or limited counter space, but might not accommodate larger dishes. The 10-inch glass turntable ensures even cooking rotation, enhancing cooking performance.

This microwave includes easy auto-cook functions for common items like popcorn, pizza, and beverages, making it convenient for quick, hassle-free cooking. The control panel is user-friendly with a bright digital display and one-touch buttons for express cooking, which simplifies operation significantly. Additionally, the ECO mode feature minimizes standby power consumption, which is a nice touch for energy-saving.

Design-wise, it sports a sleek black finish and compact dimensions (13 x 17.3 x 10.2 inches) making it a good fit for modern kitchens. Safety features like the child lock are useful for families. However, the lower wattage means it may take longer to cook or heat food compared to higher wattage models. Despite its compact size, the limited capacity might be a drawback for users needing to cook larger portions. The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB shines in terms of convenience, eco-friendliness, and design, making it a solid choice for singles, students, or small households.

The Toshiba ML-EM09PA(BS) microwave is a solid choice for those looking for an affordable, compact microwave under $100, especially suitable for small apartments or dorm rooms. It offers a 0.9 cubic feet capacity, which is enough to comfortably fit plates and small containers, making it practical for everyday use. The 900-watt power level provides a good balance between cooking speed and energy efficiency for basic reheating and cooking tasks.

A 10.6-inch removable glass turntable ensures even cooking and easy cleaning, which is a standard but important feature. The microwave comes with 6 preset cooking menus including popular items like popcorn and pizza, simplifying meal prep for users who prefer quick, no-fuss operation. Additionally, having 11 power levels and a kitchen timer allows for more precise cooking adjustments. The control panel includes user-friendly features like one-touch start for quick cooking times and a mute function to silence end-of-cook beeps, which can be useful in shared or quiet environments. Safety is well addressed with a two-step child lock to prevent accidental use, a must-have for families with young children.

In terms of size, the microwave's external dimensions (about 19" wide, 15" deep, and 11" high) make it suitable for most countertop spaces without being too bulky. The black stainless steel finish gives it a modern look that fits well in various kitchen styles. The microwave's input power (1400 watts) is higher than its output wattage, which is common but worth noting for energy-conscious users. The 0.9 cu ft capacity might feel limiting if you regularly cook larger dishes or bigger containers. While it has several handy presets, more advanced cooking features are absent, so it may not suit users looking for multifunctional or smart microwave options. This microwave covers essential needs with a few convenient extras, making it a practical pick if you want a no-complication microwave under $100.