A good cheap microwave is one that offers reliable performance, convenient features, and easy maintenance for a reasonable price. A microwave is a versatile appliance that can help you save time and energy in the kitchen, whether you want to reheat leftovers, cook frozen meals, or make popcorn. However, not all microwaves are created equal, and some may be more suitable for your needs and budget than others. In this article, we will explore some of the factors that you should consider when looking for a good cheap microwave, and provide some recommendations based on our research and reviews.
There are many different types and models of microwaves available on the market, and each one has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the factors that you should consider when buying a microwave:
Size and capacity: The size and capacity of a microwave determine how much food you can fit and cook inside it. You should choose a microwave that matches your kitchen space and your cooking needs. For example, if you have a small kitchen or a limited countertop area, you may want to opt for a compact or over-the-range microwave that can save space. On the other hand, if you have a large family or often cook large dishes, you may need a larger or built-in microwave that can accommodate more food.
Power and wattage: The power and wattage of a microwave affect how fast and evenly it can heat and cook food. Generally, the higher the wattage, the faster and more efficient the microwave. However, higher wattage also means higher energy consumption and higher cost. You should look for a microwave that has enough power to meet your cooking needs, but not too much that it wastes energy or money. A good rule of thumb is to choose a microwave that has at least 700 watts of power for basic tasks, and at least 1000 watts of power for more advanced functions.
Features and functions: The features and functions of a microwave determine what you can do with it and how easy it is to use. Some of the common features and functions that you may want to look for in a microwave include:
Pre-set programs: These are pre-programmed settings that allow you to cook or reheat specific foods or dishes with the touch of a button. For example, some microwaves have pre-set programs for popcorn, pizza, baked potato, frozen vegetables, and more. These can save you time and hassle, as you don’t have to guess the cooking time or power level for each food item.
Sensor cooking: This is a feature that automatically adjusts the cooking time and power level based on the moisture and temperature of the food. This can help you avoid overcooking or undercooking your food, and ensure optimal results every time.
Inverter technology: This is a feature that allows the microwave to deliver consistent and precise power at lower levels, instead of cycling on and off. This can help you cook or reheat delicate foods, such as eggs, cheese, or fish, without drying them out or burning them.
Turntable: This is a rotating plate that helps distribute the heat and cook the food evenly. Most microwaves have a turntable, but some may have a rectangular tray or a flatbed instead. A turntable is usually easier to clean and more compatible with different shapes and sizes of dishes, but a tray or a flatbed may offer more cooking space and flexibility.
Child lock: This is a safety feature that prevents the microwave from being accidentally turned on or opened by children or pets. This can help you avoid potential hazards and injuries, especially if you have young kids or curious animals in your home.
Price and warranty: The price and warranty of a microwave reflect its quality and durability. You should choose a microwave that fits your budget and offers good value for money. You should also check the warranty terms and conditions, and look for a microwave that comes with a long and comprehensive warranty that covers both parts and labor. This can give you peace of mind and protect you from any defects or malfunctions that may occur.
Based on our research and reviews, here are some of the best microwaves that you can buy for under $100 in 2024:
Toshiba EM925A5A-BS Microwave Oven: This is a 0.9 cubic feet microwave oven that has 900 watts of power and 10 power levels. It has a sleek black stainless steel exterior and a large digital display. It has pre-set programs for six popular foods, such as popcorn, pizza, and potatoes. It also has a power-saving mode, a sound on/off option, and a child safety lock. It comes with a one-year limited warranty. You can buy it for $89.99 on Amazon.
COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven: This is a 0.7 cubic feet microwave oven that has 700 watts of power and 11 power levels. It has a compact and stylish design that can fit in any kitchen. It has pre-set programs for six common foods, such as popcorn, pizza, and frozen vegetables. It also has an eco mode, a mute button, and a child safety lock. It comes with a one-year limited warranty. You can buy it for $64.99 on Amazon.
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven: This is a 0.7 cubic feet microwave oven that has 700 watts of power and 10 power levels. It has a modern and elegant design that can complement any decor. It has pre-set programs for six popular foods, such as popcorn, pizza, and potato. It also has a 30-second express cooking button, a kitchen timer, and a child safety lock. It comes with a one-year limited warranty. You can buy it for $74.99 on Amazon.
Conclusion
A good cheap microwave is one that offers reliable performance, convenient features, and easy maintenance for a reasonable price. When buying a microwave, you should consider factors such as size, capacity, power, wattage, features, functions, price, and warranty. You should also compare different models and read customer reviews to find the best option for your needs and budget. We hope that this article has helped you learn more about what is a good cheap microwave, and provided you with some recommendations based on our research and reviews. Happy shopping!
