There’s a lot of different kinds of microwaves out there. Whereas the high-end designs that feature dozens of features could have the price going as high as $2000, a countertop unit will also be able to give you plenty.
If you search right, you should be able to get one capable of heating, defrosting, and other bonus features and you won’t even have to spend over 100. To get the best countertop microwave under 100, there are several features you need to consider ranging from the dimensions to the programmed features.
Since it could be quite a while for you to narrow things down to what suits you best, we’ve invested our time and resources to cover every important aspect as far as getting an affordable microwave is concerned so that you can make a quick decision with a peace of mind.
Before you head on to the main agenda, here are 3 of our best that you should consider looking into. Image Name Our Rating's Price BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Turntable Push-Button Door with Child Safety Lock Farberware FMO11AHTBKB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel With 6 Cooking Programs Panasonic NN-SB458S Compact Microwave Oven, 0.9 cft, Stainless Steel
2021’s top 5 reviews of the best counter top microwaves
It’s finally time to have a closer look at the best countertop microwaves under 100 you could invest in. let’s get started…
1. BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven
With a power rating that’s as high as 1000W, it blows most in its class out of the water since you can also easily prepare different meals; thanks to the 10 different power settings. It also comes with convenient pre-programmed buttons for pizza, frozen veggies, beverages, popcorn, and potato.
Access is also made easy, thanks to the push-button door. Speaking of ease, the display is a large and easy to read LED with a similarly easy to read control panel. Since there is interior lighting, you should conveniently be able to see your meal as it cooks.
2. Farberware FMO11AHTBKB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel With 6 Cooking Programs
With just the simple touch of a button on the user-friendly number pad that is calibrated 1-6 minutes, cooking your leftovers is made easy. There’s also a easy to read digital clock on which different cooking settings are displayed
For the sake of your child’s safety, you can also lock the control panel with the child safety lock option thereby preventing accidental access or use by kids.
Even cooking is made easy considering there is a large 12.5-inch turntable that is also easily removable for easy cleanup.
3. Panasonic NN-SB458S Compact Microwave Oven, 0.9 cubic feet, Stainless Steel
In the small footprint that it comes in, this microwave packs an amazing 900W of high power for fast heating which makes it one of the most reliable microwaves. At the same time, it boasts a 10.6-inch turntable which ensures the cooking is even for delicious meals.
Another aspect that stood out on this option is the user’s capability to choose from 3 different power level options for popcorn. This is dependent on the size of the microwave popcorn bag which allows for perfect popping each time.
You’ll also enjoy the keep warm feature that’s ideal for veggies, soups, Gravies, sauces, and plenty more.
4. Toshiba EM925A5A-SS Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off ECO Mode and LED Lighting, 0.9 Cu. ft
For both versatility and efficiency, you get a 4-auto cook menu that should be able to handle different meals with ease. Additionally, cooking is achieved evenly since the microwave features a 10-inch turntable.
Last but not least, in addition to the performance, the retro style gloss finishes allow it to stand out in most kitchens plus it has a stainless-steel detail white color stand.
5. COMFEE’ Retro Countertop Microwave Oven with Compact Size
Unlike most in its class, I was able to mute this microwave by utilizing the sound on/off button. As such, the annoying beep when cooking is finished will no longer be a problem.
Something else that makes this worth getting is the child safety lock feature. This way, the Retro Countertop Microwave can always be counted on to keep your children from microwave oven damage. Also, unlike most, it’s easy to use since it comes with a large LED display and an easy to read control panel.
Things you should know before choosing a microwave under 100
Having looked at the reviews, it is important that you know exactly what criteria is to used for determining the best options. Below are important features that define the best countertop microwave under 100.
The intended use
Buying a microwave could seem easy but it’s quite the opposite especially if you need to get one depending on the intended use. To get one that best suits your needs, you should check out the following 4 different types of microwaves that exist:
- Single-function microwaves: these stand out to be the cheapest of all there are out there due to its simplicity. If you want one that’s designed just for occasional use and just need to handle the essential functions such as reheating, cooking and thawing, this is what you should consider getting
- Microwave grill: if you are looking for something that’ll be able to make amazing gliding on food possible, a microwave grill should do the trick. It is also ideal for browning dishes efficiently and quickly.
- Multi-functional microwaves: otherwise known as the combi-microwave, this is designed to offer you both the features of a single function and grill microwaves. It also stands out to be the most versatile and should be ideal for families.
- Steam microwaves: these are an ideal choice if you are concerned about your health since it is designed to preserve all the nutritional qualities of your meals.
Wattage and size
There are two of important features you need to pay attention to before buying a microwave; wattage and size.
- Wattage
The general rule of thumb is the higher this is, the faster your food will cook, and as far as countertop microwaves are concerned, getting one that seamlessly runs on 1000W should do the trick. The interesting part about a microwave with high wattage is that whereas the heating process is fast, the energy consumption is rather low
- Size
The last thing you want is a microwave that is not big enough and at the same time, ensure that it can fit in the space available in your kitchen. As such, be sure to measure the space available before buying one. Most microwaves in this price range measure between 0.5 to slightly over 2 cubic feet. I’d recommend a maximum size of 1.5 cubic feet and if you need something compact, 0.5 to 0.9 cubic feet should do the trick.
The preset features
Whereas all microwaves work on the principle of a magnetron generating microwaves which then excites the water molecules that in turn heat up, most of the current models make things even better.
With the right programmed functions, there’ll be less work for you to do since the programmed features are designed to cook different dishes with the touch of a button
Safety features
The last thing you’d want when buying a microwave is getting one whose safety features are compromised. This is especially important when you have children in the family and in such a case, you should get one that has a child lockout feature built into it; it’s a lifesaver!
Power settings
As much as the preset features are important, getting a microwave with multiple power settings makes it possible for you to prepare your meals at the perfect temperature. At this price range, you should get the best cooking experience with microwaves that have 8 to 10 power settings.
The turntable
Last in the list of things you should pay attention to when choosing the best countertop microwave under 100 is the turntable. Normally, the best microwaves have 8 to 10 power settings which ensure that you get the best cooking experience.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Question: Where to buy a cheap microwave?
Answer: The best place would be a dependable online store such as Amazon since here you’d get first-hand consumer experience from the reviews available to know whether or not it’s good enough to meet your needs.
Question: What is the smallest size microwave?
Answer: For countertop microwaves, the smallest size you can get is 0.5 cubic feet
Question: Which is the available standard size for a countertop microwave?
Answer: The standard size for a countertop microwave is 1.5 cubic feet.
Question: Which brand of countertop microwaves is the best?
Answer: Though there are many other amazing brands, Panasonic stands out to be the best as far as consumer satisfaction is concerned.
Question: How do I choose a microwave oven?
Answer: For a microwave priced at less than 100, the best way to choose one depends on your personal preferences. Based on what you should be cooking, pay heed to the preset functions. At the same time, it’s equally as important to ensure the microwave fits the room available in your kitchen.
Question: What is the best wattage for a microwave?
Answer: Though this is dependent on the size and type of microwave, the ideal wattage rating for a countertop microwave under 100 stands at 900W-1000W since it’s only in this way that your meals will cook faster and evenly.
Question: What is the lifespan of microwaves?
Answer: On average, they should work optimally for 5 to 8 years but the duration is dependent on the frequency of usage and how you use it. As such, if you use it daily and roughly, you might have to replace it after just a few years
Question: Is a vent necessary on a microwave?
Answer: This is dependent on the design since some have built-in ventilation. This feature gets rid of the cooking smells while at the same time, it cools the microwave itself. Unfortunately, this feature is present mostly in small units. For larger designs, it would be wise to install a separate vent.
Final verdict
From what we’ve seen, there’s a lot to consider when you want to spend your hard-earned cash on the best countertop microwave under 100. However, thanks to the buying guide above this shouldn’t be difficult whatsoever. With the best of the best just a click away and the buying guide at your fingertips, you’re bound to make a perfect investment in a countertop microwave that’s under 100.
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