Best Microwaves Under $100 in 2026: 15 Picks Compared on Specs
For most kitchens, a microwave under $100 does not need to be complicated. The top pick is the Chefman 0.9 cu ft 900W countertop model: it offers a useful balance of cavity size and wattage in this price range. The other picks below cover larger 1.1 cu ft machines, 0.6 cu ft space savers, retro colors, and mechanical-dial controls. The selections are based on a comparison of the listed specifications in a pool of 43 models, and the prices shown are live from the listings.
15 picks from 76 microwaves that match this guide with a price we can quote today. Live prices throughout, each with the moment it was read.
The list in brief
Which pick fits you?
- For dorms and tiny kitchens: If counter space is measured in inches, this 0.6 cu ft model is the smallest in the guide and fits shelves or carts. See pick 4
- For retro style: This 0.9 cu ft apricot unit gives you a retro look with 900W, so you do not have to settle for a low-power compact. See pick 3
- For families with kids: This Black+Decker model is selected because the seller's name lists a child safety feature in a 0.7 cu ft package. See pick 6
- For one-touch cooking: With six pre-programmed settings and speed defrost, this West Bend is the pick if you want preset buttons rather than manual timers. See pick 10
The full list of 15
1 Best overall
Chefman Countertop Microwave
- Type
- Countertop
- Capacity
- Under 1.0 cu ft
- Wattage
- 800 to 999 W
$89.95 (as of 11/04/2026 22:16 PST - Details)
The 0.9 cu ft cavity sits between the 0.7 cu ft compacts and the 1.1 cu ft large models, and the 900 W output matches the faster group of compact units. The stainless finish also keeps it compatible with most kitchens.
Pros
- 0.9 cu ft cavity fits standard dinner plates
- 900 W power heats faster than 700 W compact models
- Stainless steel finish listed by the seller
- Countertop type with a compact footprint
Cons
- Not as large as the 1.1 cu ft models on this list
- Not as powerful as the 1000 W models on this list
- Child safety lock not stated by the seller
Good fit if
- Households that want one microwave for everyday reheating
- Apartments with ordinary counter space
Skip if
- You regularly heat very large bowls or platters
- You need a listed child safety lock
Verdict: Balanced capacity, wattage, and finish make it the best all-around pick in this price range.
2 Best for large plates
BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop
- Type
- Countertop
- Capacity
- 1.0 to 1.4 cu ft
- Wattage
- 1000 to 1199 W
$114.27 (as of 11/04/2026 22:03 PST - Details)
Outside this guide's budget at today's price.
The 1.1 cu ft capacity is the largest among these picks, and the 1000 W output is the highest wattage in the group. This places it ahead of the 0.7 cu ft models for households that need more interior space.
Pros
- 1.1 cu ft capacity, the largest in this list
- 1000 W power, the highest wattage among these picks
- Stainless steel finish
Cons
- Larger footprint takes more counter space
- No retro or two-tone styling
- Child safety lock not stated by the seller
Good fit if
- Households that reheat family-size casseroles
- Users who want the fastest heating in this price range
Skip if
- Counter space is very tight
- You prefer a smaller 0.7 cu ft unit
Verdict: The best choice when capacity and wattage matter most under $100.
3 Best retro style
COMFEE' Retro Microwave Oven
- Type
- Countertop
- Capacity
- Under 1.0 cu ft
- Wattage
- 800 to 999 W
- Retro style
- Yes
$127.99 (as of 11/04/2026 22:21 PST - Details)
Outside this guide's budget at today's price.
Most retro models in this pool are 0.7 cu ft with 700 W, but this unit lists a 0.9 cu ft cavity and 900 W. The apricot finish provides the retro look without dropping into the slower power group.
Pros
- 0.9 cu ft cavity in a retro-styled body
- 900 W power for a retro model
- Apricot finish stands out from black and stainless
- Countertop type
Cons
- Retro color may not suit every kitchen
- Child safety lock not stated by the seller
- No digital preset menu listed by the seller
Good fit if
- Buyers who want a styled appliance without giving up wattage
- Small kitchens with room for a 0.9 cu ft unit
Skip if
- You prefer a neutral stainless finish
- You want a more compact 0.7 cu ft footprint
Verdict: Retro styling with the wattage of a midsize budget microwave.
4 Best for tiny counters
Commercial Chef 0.6 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven
- Type
- Countertop
- Capacity
- Under 1.0 cu ft
- Wattage
- Under 800 W
$69.99 (as of 11/04/2026 22:21 PST - Details)
At 0.6 cu ft, this model has the smallest listed capacity in the pool. That makes it useful for shelves, carts, and other spots where a 0.7 or 0.9 cu ft unit will not fit.
Pros
- 0.6 cu ft capacity, the smallest in this list
- Black finish fits most room layouts
- Countertop type with a small footprint
Cons
- Power not stated by the seller
- Small cavity limits plate sizes
- No presets or child safety features listed
Good fit if
- Dorm rooms and small offices
- Users who need a microwave on a shelf or cart
Skip if
- You need to heat standard dinner plates
- You want a stated wattage for faster cooking
Verdict: The go-to pick when counter space is the main constraint.
5 Best mechanical controls
Avanti Microwave Oven 700-Watts Compact Mechanical with 5 Power Settings
- Capacity
- Under 1.0 cu ft
- Wattage
- Under 800 W
$81.15 (as of 11/04/2026 21:54 PST - Details)
Mechanical dials are listed in the product name, giving a control scheme that does not require menu navigation. The five power settings and defrost cover basic reheating tasks in a compact body.
Pros
- Mechanical dials with simple manual control
- Five power settings listed by the seller
- Defrost setting included
- 700 W power
Cons
- 700 W is the slower power group in this list
- Exact capacity not stated by the seller
- No digital presets or child lock
Good fit if
- Users who prefer knobs over menus
- Basic reheating and defrosting tasks
Skip if
- You want one-touch presets
- You need a known capacity number before buying
Verdict: Mechanical controls make this the simplest microwave on the list to operate.
6 Best child safety lock
BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu.Ft
- Type
- Countertop
- Capacity
- Under 1.0 cu ft
$69.99 (as of 11/04/2026 22:03 PST - Details)
The seller names a child safety feature for this unit, so it suits households with young children. The 0.7 cu ft capacity and 700 W output match the common compact format in this pool.
Pros
- Child safety feature named by the seller
- 0.7 cu ft capacity
- 700 W power
- Black finish
Cons
- Cavity is smaller than 0.9 cu ft models
- 700 W group is slower than 900 W and 1000 W models
- Stainless finish not offered for this entry
Good fit if
- Families with young children in the kitchen
- Compact kitchens looking for a basic model
Skip if
- You prefer a larger cavity
- You want higher wattage
Verdict: A sensible compact pick when child safety is a priority.
7 Best compact from an established brand
TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven
- Type
- Countertop
- Capacity
- Under 1.0 cu ft
- Wattage
- Under 800 W
$90.99 (as of 11/05/2026 01:38 PST - Details)
This 0.7 cu ft, 700 W unit from Toshiba uses a plain black countertop format. It is a direct compact alternative to the 0.9 cu ft Toshiba also in this pool.
Pros
- 0.7 cu ft capacity
- 700 W power
- Toshiba brand name
- Black finish
Cons
- Smaller than the 0.9 cu ft Toshiba in this pool
- 700 W group is slower than 900 W models
- Child safety lock not stated by the seller
Good fit if
- Shoppers who want a known brand in a compact package
- Users who mostly reheat leftovers and drinks
Skip if
- You need a larger 0.9 cu ft cavity
- You want higher wattage
Verdict: A compact from a major microwave brand.
8 Best stainless steel compact
Sharp SMC0962KS 0.9 cu. ft. 900W Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave
- Type
- Countertop
- Capacity
- Under 1.0 cu ft
- Wattage
- 800 to 999 W
$119.00 (as of 11/05/2026 01:10 PST - Details) Typical price: $127.71, 7% off
Outside this guide's budget at today's price.
This 0.9 cu ft stainless steel model lists 900 W, placing it in the faster group of compact units. It is one of two Sharp models in the pool, and the larger of the two.
Pros
- 0.9 cu ft capacity
- 900 W power
- Stainless steel finish
- One of two Sharp models in this pool
Cons
- No retro styling
- Child safety lock not stated by the seller
- Still smaller than 1.1 cu ft models
Good fit if
- Stainless steel kitchens
- Households that want a balanced 0.9 cu ft package
Skip if
- You prefer white or retro finishes
- You need maximum capacity
Verdict: A stainless steel 0.9 cu ft pick from an established microwave maker.
9 Best white compact
GE Countertop Microwave Oven
- Type
- Countertop
- Capacity
- Under 1.0 cu ft
- Wattage
- Under 800 W
$88.00 (as of 11/04/2026 23:06 PST - Details)
The seller lists a white finish for this 0.7 cu ft, 700 W GE model. It is a plain countertop option without presets or retro styling.
Pros
- White finish
- 0.7 cu ft capacity
- 700 W power
- GE brand
Cons
- Smaller cavity than 0.9 cu ft models
- 700 W group is slower than 900 W models
- No child safety feature listed
Good fit if
- White kitchens and rental apartments
- Users who want a recognizable appliance brand
Skip if
- You prefer black or stainless
- You need a larger interior
Verdict: A clean white countertop microwave from a major appliance company.
10 Best preset menu set
West Bend 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven
- Type
- Countertop
- Capacity
- Under 1.0 cu ft
- Wattage
- Under 800 W
$66.49 (as of 11/05/2026 01:54 PST - Details)
Six pre-programmed cooking settings and speed defrost are named by the seller. The 0.7 cu ft, 700 W format keeps it in the compact group while adding preset buttons.
Pros
- Six pre-programmed cooking settings listed by seller
- Speed defrost setting included
- 0.7 cu ft capacity
- 700 W power
Cons
- 0.7 cu ft cavity is smaller than 0.9 cu ft models
- 700 W group is slower than higher-wattage models
- Electronic controls require menu navigation
Good fit if
- Users who want one-touch preset buttons
- Small kitchens that still want convenience features
Skip if
- You prefer mechanical dials
- You need a larger cavity
Verdict: The best pick here when preset cooking buttons matter more than custom settings.
11 Best ECO mode
COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven
- Type
- Countertop
- Capacity
- Under 1.0 cu ft
- Wattage
- Under 800 W
$69.98 (as of 11/04/2026 22:21 PST - Details)
The seller lists an ECO mode for this 0.7 cu ft, 700 W unit. It is the only pick in this guide with that feature named in its listing.
Pros
- ECO mode named by the seller
- 0.7 cu ft capacity
- 700 W power
- Black finish
Cons
- Smaller than 0.9 cu ft models
- 700 W group is slower than 900 W models
- No retro styling
Good fit if
- Energy-conscious users who want a listed ECO mode
- Compact kitchens
Skip if
- You need a larger cavity
- You want higher wattage
Verdict: A compact microwave with an ECO mode feature named by the seller.
12 Best high-power compact
Emerson MW9005SS Compact Countertop Microwave Oven
- Type
- Countertop
- Capacity
- Under 1.0 cu ft
- Wattage
- 800 to 999 W
$97.99 (as of 11/04/2026 22:46 PST - Details)
This Emerson model lists 900 W with push button control, an LED display, five power levels, and six auto cooking menus. It offers compact-class power with more controls than a basic 700 W unit.
Pros
- 900 W power in a compact body
- Push button control and LED display listed by seller
- Five power levels
- Six auto cooking menus listed by seller
Cons
- Exact capacity not stated by the seller
- 900 W still below the 1000 W large models
- No child safety feature listed
Good fit if
- People who want a compact footprint with more power
- Users who like preset cooking options
Skip if
- You need a stated exact capacity before buying
- You want the highest wattage available
Verdict: A compact model that keeps the wattage higher than typical 700 W small microwaves.
13 Best auto cook and defrost set
Farberware Stainless Steel Microwave Oven 0.9 cu. ft. 900 Watts
- Type
- Countertop
- Capacity
- Under 1.0 cu ft
- Wattage
- 800 to 999 W
$89.99 (as of 11/04/2026 22:51 PST - Details)
The seller names auto cook settings, defrost, easy-clean surfaces, and a child safety feature for this 0.9 cu ft unit. It combines preset cooking and a child lock in one package.
Pros
- Auto cook settings named by the seller
- Defrost setting included
- Easy-clean surface mentioned in the product name
- Child safety feature named by the seller
Cons
- 0.9 cu ft is smaller than 1.1 cu ft models
- 900 W is below the 1000 W large models
- No retro styling
Good fit if
- Buyers who want presets and child safety in one unit
- Households that do not need a 1.1 cu ft footprint
Skip if
- You need maximum capacity
- You prefer mechanical dials
Verdict: A feature-rich 0.9 cu ft package for households that want convenience options.
14 Best two-tone finish
Haden Compact Countertop Microwave Oven
- Type
- Countertop
- Capacity
- Under 1.0 cu ft
$99.95 (as of 11/04/2026 23:15 PST - Details)
The black and copper finish is the only two-tone finish in this list. The seller lists a 0.7 cu ft capacity but no power output.
Pros
- Black and copper two-tone finish
- 0.7 cu ft capacity
- Compact countertop type
Cons
- Power not stated by the seller
- Smaller than 0.9 cu ft models
- No child safety or preset menu listed
Good fit if
- Design-conscious kitchens
- Small spaces where the finish is part of the decor
Skip if
- You need a stated wattage
- You need a larger cavity
Verdict: A 0.7 cu ft microwave that brings a distinctive two-tone look to a small counter.
15 Best basic black compact
Magic Chef 0.7 cu. ft. Countertop Microwave in Black
- Type
- Countertop
- Capacity
- Under 1.0 cu ft
- Wattage
- Under 800 W
$87.47 (as of 11/05/2026 00:04 PST - Details)
This Magic Chef uses the common 0.7 cu ft, 700 W format in a plain black finish. It is a no-frills countertop option without presets or extra styling.
Pros
- 0.7 cu ft capacity
- 700 W power
- Black finish
- Countertop type
Cons
- Smaller than 0.9 cu ft models
- 700 W group is slower than 900 W models
- No preset or child safety features listed
Good fit if
- Simple reheating tasks
- Users who want a no-frills black unit
Skip if
- You need presets or a child lock
- You need a larger capacity
Verdict: A no-frills black compact that keeps the budget category simple.
The specs, compared
| # | Microwave | Type | Capacity | Wattage | Width | Convection | Air fry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chefman Countertop Microwave | Countertop | Under 1.0 cu ft | 800 to 999 W | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 2 | BLACK+DECKER Microwave Oven Countertop | Countertop | 1.0 to 1.4 cu ft | 1000 to 1199 W | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 3 | COMFEE' Retro Microwave Oven | Countertop | Under 1.0 cu ft | 800 to 999 W | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 4 | Commercial Chef 0.6 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven | Countertop | Under 1.0 cu ft | Under 800 W | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 5 | Avanti Microwave Oven 700-Watts Compact Mechanical with 5 Power Settings | not stated | Under 1.0 cu ft | Under 800 W | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 6 | BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu.Ft | Countertop | Under 1.0 cu ft | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 7 | TOSHIBA Countertop Microwave Oven | Countertop | Under 1.0 cu ft | Under 800 W | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 8 | Sharp SMC0962KS 0.9 cu. ft. 900W Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave | Countertop | Under 1.0 cu ft | 800 to 999 W | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 9 | GE Countertop Microwave Oven | Countertop | Under 1.0 cu ft | Under 800 W | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 10 | West Bend 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven | Countertop | Under 1.0 cu ft | Under 800 W | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 11 | COMFEE' Countertop Microwave Oven | Countertop | Under 1.0 cu ft | Under 800 W | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 12 | Emerson MW9005SS Compact Countertop Microwave Oven | Countertop | Under 1.0 cu ft | 800 to 999 W | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 13 | Farberware Stainless Steel Microwave Oven 0.9 cu. ft. 900 Watts | Countertop | Under 1.0 cu ft | 800 to 999 W | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 14 | Haden Compact Countertop Microwave Oven | Countertop | Under 1.0 cu ft | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 15 | Magic Chef 0.7 cu. ft. Countertop Microwave in Black | Countertop | Under 1.0 cu ft | Under 800 W | not stated | not stated | not stated |
Why these made the list
The pool for this article contains 43 countertop microwaves listed with prices under $100. The shortlist was built by removing near-duplicate finishes and keeping only new units from established appliance brands. Models without a stated power or capacity were kept only when their controls, finish, or size served a specific use, such as mechanical dials or a 0.6 cu ft footprint. Each price on this page is the live price read from the store listing at the time of preparation. Nobody at this site has tested these microwaves; the picks are based on the specifications in the listings and the manufacturers' published information.
Things to weigh before buying
Wattage and speed
Wattage controls how quickly a microwave reheats food. The pool includes 700 W compacts, 900 W midsize units, and 1000 W large models. Food safety does not depend on wattage alone; use a food thermometer and allow standing time to finish cooking, as the FDA advises.
Capacity and plate sizes
Listed capacities in the pool run from 0.6 to 1.1 cu ft. The smallest models are fine for mugs, bowls, and small plates, while 0.9 and 1.1 cu ft models give a dinner plate more room. Once you know the largest dish you heat regularly, the capacity choice becomes straightforward.
Digital presets vs mechanical dials
Digital models often add one-touch settings for defrost and common foods, while mechanical dials use simple knobs for time and power. Presets can shorten the number of steps, but dials are easy for anyone to use. Neither choice changes the cooking results if you set the time correctly.
Turntables and even heating
A turntable rotates food during cooking, which helps it heat evenly. The FDA recommends covering food, stirring, and rotating it for even cooking; if your microwave has no turntable, rotate the dish by hand once or twice. Standing time also completes the cooking.
Safety and recycling
Look for a child lock if children use the microwave. The FDA regulates radiation-emitting electronic products, including microwave ovens sold in the United States. When an old unit is replaced, the EPA suggests checking electronics donation and recycling options rather than putting it in the trash.
Questions
Is a 700W microwave enough for everyday use?
Yes for most reheating tasks. A 700W model will heat leftovers and drinks, just more slowly than a 900W or 1000W model. The FDA says microwave cooking should include covering food, stirring or rotating it, and allowing standing time before checking the internal temperature with a food thermometer. If you often cook larger items, choose one of the 900W or 1000W picks.
Does a microwave turntable matter?
A turntable helps food cook more evenly because it rotates items through different parts of the oven. The FDA's microwave guidance says to rotate the dish by hand once or twice if there is no turntable. Some compact models do not list a turntable; if one is not present, plan to rotate food manually while it cooks.
What should I do with an old microwave?
Check local electronics recycling or donation programs before putting a microwave in the trash. The EPA explains that electronics contain valuable materials and should be donated or recycled safely. Contact your local waste authority for specific drop-off rules, and remove any batteries before recycling if the unit has them.
Do budget microwaves meet safety standards?
Microwave ovens sold in the United States are regulated by the FDA as radiation-emitting electronic products. That regulation covers performance standards for products sold to consumers. Beyond that, the main practical safety question is whether the unit has a child lock, which not every budget model lists.
How much power do I need for frozen meals?
Frozen meals often benefit from higher wattage because they need enough heat to thaw and cook through. A 900W or 1000W model will generally handle frozen dinners faster than a 700W unit. The seller's package label usually lists the wattage, so check it before choosing. Always follow the food package instructions and check the internal temperature.
Latest changes
- : First published.