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5 best cheap microwave ovens for quick cooking on a budget

5 best cheap microwave ovens for quick cooking on a budget

Best cheap microwave ovens for quick cooking on a budget

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The conveniences of modern life are built to save time, but it’s also helpful to save money while investing in them. One of those handy tools, the microwave, is a ubiquitous presence in most American homes, so we wanted to show you some of the best you can buy without sacrificing a week’s pay or a stylish look. Keep reading to see which colorful, sleek, fun, and powerful microwave ovens we chose to top our list of the best budget options out there.

You can trust our independent reviews. We may earn a commission from some of the retailers, but we never allow this to influence selections, which are formed from real-world testing, expert advice and our own research. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.

Farberware Classic 1.1 cu. Ft. 1000-Watt Countertop Microwave Oven in Stainless Steel/Black

Farberware

Classic 1.1 cu. Ft. 1000-Watt Countertop Microwave Oven in Stainless Steel/Black

Built to be installed above a stove, this microwave comes with 10 cooking levels and a memory function that recalls your favorite and most frequently used settings. Some other perks include:

–one through six minute express cook buttons

–time or weight based defrost controls

–Six pre-programmed cooking functions for popcorn, pizza, a dinner plate, etc.

–multi-stage cooking so you can set the power level to adjust without opening the door to reset it

You can also tack on two years’ worth of protection from Home Depot for just $18, so it’s a secure investment all around.

Farberware
$119.99

Insignia™ - 0.7 Cu. Ft. Compact Microwave - Black

Insignia™

0.7 Cu. Ft. Compact Microwave - Black

Another super budget option that’s compact and useful is the Insignia 0.7 cubic feet option found only at Best Buy. It has 700 watts, 11 power levels for varied cooking, and a black finish that fits neatly into nearly any decor scheme. Reviewers love how easy it is to use and fit into a small space, and some other highlights include:

–700 watts of power

–0.7 cubic feet capacity

–Lightweight at just 23 pounds

–Six presets and 11 power levels

Insignia
$59.99

Oster 0.9 Cu. Ft. 900 Watt Microwave Oven - Red - OGXE0904

Oster

0.9 Cu. Ft. 900 Watt Microwave Oven - Red - OGXE0904

Slightly bigger than our other options above, this handsome red microwave at just over 11 x 15 x 19 inches and allows for everything from baked potatoes and coffee to frozen dinners or leftover pizza to be heated in a flash.

Similar to other options here, there’s a convenient child lock to keep any wandering little hands safe from injury or trouble. Bonus: You’ll get more power at 900 watts with this option, and still pay under $70.

Oster
$69.99

Black & Decker 0.9 cu. ft. Microwave Oven

Black & Decker

0.9 cu. ft. Microwave Oven

A trustworthy name in kitchen appliances, Black & Decker is a favorite for folks looking for any quality kitchen tool. This microwave by the company has:

–900 watts of power

–a 30 second quick cook timer

–a large, easy-to-grip handle

–10 power levels

– a streamlined LED display that looks graphic and chic, ideal for the modern kitchen

Normally priced at $95, sign up for a free membership at Bed Bath & Beyond (if you haven’t already), and you’ll save another $19.

Black & Decker
$79.99

Haden Silt Green Dorchester Microwave

Haden

Silt Green Dorchester Microwave

While we were looking to stick around the $100 mark for cheap microwaves, we think you’ll agree the impeccable design touches of faux bois detailing and vintage British construction are worth the extra $30.

The creamy green color, five power levels, and eight cooking menus make it a valuable asset to any home, as well, so as to your repertoire for style and function alike. Like many others, it has 700 watts and a childproof lock, and there are several matching appliances to round out your kitchen collection should you click through and browse.

Haden
$129.95
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