Best microwave for under $100: BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 — compact, reliable, and budget-friendly.
I’ve lived in small apartments, cooked on tight schedules, and bought more than a few budget microwaves. When your space is limited and your budget is tight, finding the best microwave for under $100 can feel like treasure hunting. These compact ovens handle quick meals, defrosts, and reheats without draining your wallet. I tested models that balance power, size, and ease of use so you can pick one that fits your routine.
Chefman 0.7 Cu Ft, 700W Microwave
I used the Chefman 0.7 cu ft for quick meals and small plates. It heats evenly for most items and feels sturdy for the price. The controls are simple and the mute and eco modes are a nice touch. It fits well on a narrow counter or dorm room shelf.
The 700W power matches other compact units. I found the presets useful for popcorn and beverages. Loading plates is easy with the turntable. For busy mornings, the one-touch express cook saves time.
Pros:
- Compact footprint that fits small counters.
- Simple controls for fast use.
- Eco and mute modes save energy and noise.
- Good heat distribution for its size.
- Affordable for basic needs.
Cons:
- Limited internal space—won’t handle large plates.
- No advanced sensor cooking features.
- Lower wattage than full-size microwaves.
My Recommendation
I recommend this Chefman if you need a basic, reliable unit for small households. It’s great for single cooks, students, or a second microwave. If you want one of the best microwave for under $100 that balances features and price, this is a solid pick.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Small kitchens | Tiny footprint frees counter space. |
| Student housing | Easy controls and energy saving modes. |
| Occasional cooks | Good for reheats and quick meals. |
COMFEE’ 0.7 Cu Ft, 700W Microwave
The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB is a compact machine with clear buttons and a reliable turntable. I liked the easy one-touch presets and the option to mute beeps. It feels intuitive the first time you use it. The exterior cleans up quickly and looks neat on a counter.
During testing I noticed consistent heating for leftovers. The ECO mode helps save power when idle. It’s not the fastest, but it completes tasks predictably. If you want a fuss-free unit, this fits the bill.
Pros:
- User-friendly one-touch buttons.
- Sound on/off for quiet operation.
- Compact and light to move around.
- Energy-saving ECO mode included.
- Good value for the price point.
Cons:
- Limited capacity for large dishes.
- No advanced sensor cook options.
- Lower wattage means longer cook times.
My Recommendation
I recommend the COMFEE’ model for people who want simplicity. It’s an excellent choice for apartments and offices. For those hunting the best microwave for under $100 with no fuss, this COMFEE’ is a dependable pick.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Quiet environments | Sound on/off keeps noise down. |
| Office kitchens | Simple presets for common tasks. |
| Budget buyers | Strong basic features at low cost. |
BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu Ft, 700W Microwave
I rely on the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 as a go-to compact microwave. The 700W output heats soup, leftovers, and frozen meals well. The digital controls are responsive and the child safety lock is a helpful feature for families. The stainless look fits many kitchens.
In my tests it warmed evenly and handled standard plates with space to spare. The turntable is stable and easy to remove for cleaning. This unit stands out for consistent performance among budget options.
Pros:
- Consistent heating for common meals.
- Child safety lock adds peace of mind.
- Durable build for the price.
- Simple, clear digital controls.
- Easy to clean interior and turntable.
Cons:
- Small interior limits large dishes.
- Basic features only—no sensor cook.
- Some noise at higher power settings.
My Recommendation
I recommend the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 for families and apartment dwellers. If you want a reliable, compact option among the best microwave for under $100, this model checks the boxes. It’s a sensible pick for basic daily use.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Small families | Child lock and reliable heating. |
| Busy cooks | Quick and consistent reheating. |
| Value seekers | Good features at a low price. |
BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu Ft, Compact Microwave
The larger BLACK+DECKER 0.9 cu ft model gives extra interior room while staying affordable. I appreciated the extra inch or two of depth for bigger plates and bowls. The performance stays dependable across a variety of dishes. The stainless finish hides wear well.
It runs at standard microwave wattage for compact units, so cook times are predictable. I used it for casseroles, larger bowls, and meal prep containers. The door and controls feel solid for regular use.
Pros:
- More internal space than typical compact models.
- Sturdy build handles daily use.
- Good value for the extra capacity.
- Simple operation—no learning curve.
- Works well for meal prep and larger plates.
Cons:
- Slightly larger footprint may not fit tiny counters.
- Still lacks sensor cooking options.
My Recommendation
Choose this BLACK+DECKER if you want a bit more space but still need affordability. It’s a top contender when looking for the best microwave for under $100 with usable capacity. I recommend it for cooks who reheat larger meals often.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Meal preppers | Fits larger containers and plates. |
| Shared kitchens | Handles varied dish sizes. |
| Value-focused buyers | Extra space without much added cost. |
Chefman 1.1 Cu Ft, 1000W Microwave
The Chefman 1.1 cu ft model surprised me for its power and size in a budget range. At 1000W it heats faster than most compact microwaves. I used it to defrost meats quickly and to bring soups to a simmer. The interior space is generous for its class.
Controls are straightforward and the one-touch presets speed up common tasks. I found that the higher wattage reduced cook times significantly. This model stretches the idea of what the best microwave for under $100 can do.
Pros:
- High wattage for faster cooking.
- Larger interior handles big dishes.
- Simple presets and express cook.
- Good value for more power and space.
- Well-suited to families and frequent cooks.
Cons:
- Bigger footprint needs counter space.
- May be pricier than smaller 700W units.
- Heavier to move or store.
My Recommendation
I recommend this Chefman 1.1 cu ft for people who want more power at a budget price. If you need a strong option in the search for the best microwave for under $100, this model is ideal. It’s great for cooks who want faster heating and larger capacity.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Busy households | Higher wattage speeds up meals. |
| Defrosting meats | Powerful output handles thicker items. |
| Cooks who prep in bulk | Large interior fits meal-prep trays. |
Chefman Stainless 0.7 Cu Ft, 700W Microwave
The Chefman compact stainless microwave blends a clean look with straightforward function. I liked the stainless finish—easy to wipe and resistant to staining. The 700W power handles everyday tasks without fuss. It’s compact enough for limited counters.
Performance is steady. Reheats are even for plates and bowls I tested. The child lock and mute features add small but useful perks. This model is reliable and looks good in modern kitchens.
Pros:
- Stylish stainless steel finish.
- Compact but capable for common tasks.
- Easy to clean interior and exterior.
- Solid build quality for the price.
- Mute and safety options included.
Cons:
- Limited internal volume for big dishes.
- No smart or sensor cooking features.
- Standard 700W means longer cook times than 1000W models.
My Recommendation
I recommend this Chefman stainless model for style-conscious buyers who need a compact, reliable machine. If your aim is the best microwave for under $100 with a sleek look, this is an excellent choice. It blends form and function well.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Design-focused kitchens | Attractive stainless finish fits many styles. |
| Small households | Good for everyday reheats and snacks. |
| Gift buyers | Looks premium without a high price. |
Toshiba 0.9 Cu Ft, 900W Microwave
The Toshiba ML-EM09PA pairs 900W power with a roomy 0.9 cu ft interior. I liked how quickly it brought liquids to a boil and warmed leftovers evenly. The LED lighting helps you see when a dish is done. The mute and auto menus are practical for daily use.
This microwave handled a range of dishes well, from bowls to taller mugs. The 900W rating gives it a notable edge over many 700W compact models. It balances power and size for very practical results.
Pros:
- Higher wattage improves cook speed.
- Spacious interior for a compact unit.
- LED light and clear controls.
- Auto menus simplify common tasks.
- Good balance of power and size.
Cons:
- May cost a bit more than basic 700W models.
- Heavier than ultra-compact units.
My Recommendation
I recommend the Toshiba 0.9 cu ft for cooks who want speed without sacrificing space. It is one of the best microwave for under $100 when you want faster heating and roomier capacity. This model works well for everyday family use.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Quick meals | 900W power reduces cook times. |
| Families | Room for standard dinner plates. |
| Frequent users | Durable and fast for daily use. |
Toshiba 0.7 Cu Ft, 700W Microwave
This Toshiba MM-EM07PA is a straightforward 700W compact microwave with helpful features like ChefDefrost and sound on/off. I appreciated the reliability during repeated tests. Its size works well for small households and students. The controls include multiple power levels for flexibility.
It warms evenly and the mute function is handy in shared spaces. The ChefDefrost setting did a good job on frozen items without overcooking the edges. For a basic 700W unit, it delivers dependable results.
Pros:
- ChefDefrost helps with frozen meals.
- Sound on/off for quiet use.
- Multiple power levels for control.
- Compact and easy to fit in tight spaces.
- Clear display and simple presets.
Cons:
- Smaller interior limits plate size.
- No sensor cooking or advanced programming.
My Recommendation
I recommend Toshiba’s 0.7 cu ft model for students and small kitchens. If you want a practical and quiet pick among the best microwave for under $100, this one is a fine option. It handles frozen meals and reheats with ease.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Students | Compact and quiet for dorms. |
| Light cooks | ChefDefrost helps frozen dinners. |
| Shared spaces | Sound on/off keeps noise down. |
FAQs Of best microwave for under $100
Which features matter most when choosing the best microwave for under $100?
Look for wattage, internal capacity, presets, and safety locks. I prioritize reliable heating and easy controls. Higher wattage (900–1000W) heats faster. If space is tight, choose smaller capacity like 0.7 cu ft.
Are 700W microwaves good enough for daily use?
Yes. 700W models handle reheats, popcorn, and frozen meals well. Cook times are a bit longer than 900–1000W units, but they work reliably. I use 700W models daily in small kitchens.
How do I clean and maintain a budget microwave?
Wipe spills quickly with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tough stains, heat a bowl of water with lemon juice for two minutes, let steam loosen residue, then wipe clean. Regular cleaning keeps performance steady and odors low.
Can I find a 1000W microwave for under $100?
Occasionally you can. The Chefman 1.1 cu ft I reviewed has 1000W and may still fall near or under $100 during sales. Watch deals and seasonal discounts to get higher wattage on a budget.
Do budget microwaves come with warranties?
Most do. Basic warranty coverage is common—typically one year. I always check the product page for details and consider extended protection if I plan heavy use.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
If you need a compact, reliable unit, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 stands out as the best microwave for under $100 for most people. It balances dependable heating, safety features, and value for everyday use.
For bigger needs, consider the Chefman 1.1 cu ft 1000W for faster cooking. Overall, pick the best microwave for under $100 that matches your space and how you cook.
