Introduction
Most households rely on a microwave for quick reheating, simple cooking, and everyday convenience, but not everyone wants to spend a lot of money on one. If you are asking where to get a cheap microwave, you are likely looking for a dependable appliance that fits a tight budget without sacrificing basic safety or performance.
A cheap microwave generally costs between $50 and $100, though prices can dip lower during sales or when buying secondhand. These models are usually compact countertop units with lower wattage and fewer preset buttons, yet they can still handle popcorn, frozen meals, leftovers, and beverages with ease.
This guide explains where to find affordable microwaves both online and locally, which brands offer the best value, what features matter most, and how to complete your purchase with confidence. You will also find a step-by-step buying process, a comparison table of popular budget models, practical tips, common mistakes to avoid, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Budget Microwaves: What “Cheap” Really Means
- Where to Get a Cheap Microwave? Online Retailers
- Local Stores Where You Can Find a Cheap Microwave
- Best Budget Microwave Brands to Consider
- Key Features to Look for in a Cheap Microwave
- Types of Budget Microwaves
- Step-by-Step Guide: How to Buy a Cheap Microwave
- Comparison Table: Popular Budget Microwave Options
- Tips and Best Practices for Buying a Cheap Microwave
- Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Cheap Microwave
- Installation, Safety, and Maintenance
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Understanding Budget Microwaves: What “Cheap” Really Means
When shoppers search for where to get a cheap microwave, they usually mean a countertop model priced under $100. At this price point, you can expect basic functionality rather than advanced cooking technology. Most budget microwaves fall between 600 and 900 watts and offer capacities from 0.6 to 1.1 cubic feet.
The trade-offs are real but manageable. You may find mechanical dials instead of touchpad controls, fewer one-touch presets, and a shorter warranty period. Stainless steel finishes are less common at the lowest prices, with white or black plastic exteriors dominating the category.
Despite these limitations, a budget microwave is perfectly suitable for reheating coffee, cooking frozen vegetables, making popcorn, and defrosting small portions of meat. It is not designed for heavy daily use in a large family kitchen, but it works well for dorm rooms, offices, studio apartments, and secondary kitchen spaces.
Where to Get a Cheap Microwave? Online Retailers
The internet offers the widest selection of budget microwaves, often with price filters and customer reviews that make comparison shopping easier. If you are wondering where to get a cheap microwave without leaving home, start with these established online options.
Amazon, eBay, Walmart, and Target
Amazon carries everything from no-name budget brands to recognized names like Black+Decker and Farberware. You can sort by price, read verified reviews, and often take advantage of fast shipping if you are a Prime member. eBay is useful for auctions, “Buy It Now” listings, and refurbished units sold by reputable sellers.
Walmart’s website frequently lists microwaves under $100 with free store pickup, which saves on shipping and lets you inspect the box before leaving the store. Target offers competitive pricing, occasional Circle discounts, and a price-match policy that can help you secure a lower rate if you find the same model cheaper elsewhere.
Refurbished, Open-Box, and Clearance Listings
Refurbished microwaves have been inspected, repaired if necessary, and tested to meet manufacturer standards. Buying refurbished can save 20 to 40 percent compared with a new unit, especially when purchased directly from the brand or a certified retailer.
Open-box items are typically customer returns that were never used or were only lightly used. These are often sold at Best Buy, Walmart, and similar stores with a discount and a limited warranty. Clearance sections on retailer websites are another good place to find last year’s models at deep discounts, though inventory changes quickly.
Local Stores Where You Can Find a Cheap Microwave
Shopping locally lets you see the appliance in person, avoid shipping costs, and sometimes negotiate the price. If you prefer to buy nearby, several types of local stores regularly stock cheap microwaves.
Big-Box Retailers
Walmart, Target, Best Buy, Home Depot, and Lowe’s all carry budget countertop microwaves. Big-box stores often run seasonal sales during back-to-school season, Black Friday, and major holidays. Checking the weekly ad or signing up for store emails can alert you to price drops before they sell out.
Secondhand and Local Listings
Thrift stores such as Goodwill and the Salvation Army sometimes receive donated microwaves in working condition. Pawn shops and Habitat for Humanity ReStores are also worth checking, especially if you need a unit immediately and want to pay as little as possible.
Online local marketplaces like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and OfferUp connect you with individuals selling used microwaves in your neighborhood. When buying secondhand, always inspect the door seal, test the power cord, and ask to run the microwave briefly before handing over cash. Avoid units with rust inside the cavity, a damaged door, or a frayed cord.
Best Budget Microwave Brands to Consider
Not all budget brands are equal. Some consistently deliver reliable performance at low prices, while others may fail after a few months. The following brands are widely available and generally offer good value for shoppers looking for where to get a cheap microwave.
Commercial Chef is known for simple, no-frills countertop models that cost less than $75. Black+Decker offers slightly more features, including digital controls on some budget models, usually priced between $70 and $90. AmazonBasics provides basic functionality at a very low price point, making it a solid choice for dorms and offices.
Farberware and RCA produce reliable small-capacity microwaves with straightforward dial or touchpad controls. Magic Chef and Danby occasionally offer full-size budget models around the $100 mark. When comparing brands, read recent reviews to confirm that current manufacturing quality remains consistent.
Key Features to Look for in a Cheap Microwave
Even a low-cost microwave should meet your basic needs. Before buying, consider these features so you do not end up with an appliance that frustrates you.
Wattage: Budget models usually range from 600 to 900 watts. Lower wattage means longer cooking times, which is fine for reheating but less convenient for cooking from scratch.
Capacity: Measure your counter space and decide whether 0.7 cubic feet is enough or if you need a full 1.1 cubic feet to fit a standard dinner plate.
Controls: Mechanical dials are durable and easy to use, while touchpads offer more precise timing and preset options. Choose whichever feels more comfortable.
Turntable: A rotating glass tray helps heat food evenly. Confirm that the model you choose includes one.
Presets: Common buttons for popcorn, potato, reheat, and defrost add convenience, though you can always cook manually by time and power level.
Door and handle: Test the door latch if shopping in person. It should close securely and feel sturdy, not flimsy.
Types of Budget Microwaves
Understanding the difference between microwave types helps you avoid buying the wrong style for your space.
Countertop vs. Over-the-Range
Countertop microwaves are the cheapest and easiest to install. You simply plug them in and place them on a flat surface. Over-the-range models mount above the stove and often include ventilation, but they cost significantly more and usually require professional installation. For a truly cheap microwave, stick with countertop.
Compact vs. Full-Size
Compact microwaves around 0.6 to 0.9 cubic feet work well in dorm rooms, small apartments, and offices. Full-size budget models near 1.1 cubic feet accommodate larger plates and bowls but take up more counter space. Choose the size that matches your actual cooking habits rather than buying bigger than necessary.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Buy a Cheap Microwave
Follow these steps to find the right affordable microwave without wasting time or money.
- Set a firm budget. Decide whether you can spend $50, $75, or up to $100, and stick to that limit.
- Measure your available counter space. Record the width, depth, and height so you do not buy a unit that does not fit.
- Determine your wattage and capacity needs. A single person reheating leftovers can manage with 700 watts and 0.7 cubic feet, while a small family may prefer 1000 watts and 1.1 cubic feet.
- Choose where to shop. Compare online retailers, local big-box stores, and secondhand listings to find the best deal.
- Compare models and read reviews. Focus on recent feedback about durability, noise, and heating performance.
- Check the return policy and warranty. Even cheap appliances should be returnable if they arrive damaged or stop working shortly after purchase.
- Place your order or visit the store. If buying secondhand, arrange to test the unit before paying.
- Inspect and test immediately. Unbox the microwave, check for dents or damage, place a cup of water inside, and run it for one minute to confirm it heats properly.
Comparison Table: Popular Budget Microwave Options
The table below compares six commonly available budget microwaves. Prices are approximate and vary by retailer, sales, and region.
| Model | Type | Approx. Price | Wattage | Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Chef 0.7 cu ft | Countertop | $65–$75 | 700W | 0.7 cu ft | Dorm rooms and offices |
| Black+Decker 0.7 cu ft | Countertop | $70–$80 | 700W | 0.7 cu ft | Small apartments |
| AmazonBasics 0.7 cu ft | Countertop | $60–$70 | 700W | 0.7 cu ft | Basic reheating |
| RCA 0.7 cu ft | Countertop | $65–$75 | 700W | 0.7 cu ft | Budget-conscious buyers |
| Farberware 1.1 cu ft | Countertop | $90–$110 | 1000W | 1.1 cu ft | Small families |
| Magic Chef 1.1 cu ft | Countertop | $100–$120 | 1000W | 1.1 cu ft | Budget full-size option |
Tips and Best Practices for Buying a Cheap Microwave
These practical suggestions can help you get the most value from a low-cost purchase.
- Shop during major sales events such as Black Friday, back-to-school season, and January clearance sales.
- Use price-tracking tools or browser extensions to see whether a microwave’s current price is a genuine discount.
- Read reviews from the last three to six months rather than relying on older feedback, since manufacturing quality can change.
- Consider an open-box unit if you want a newer model at a lower price and are comfortable with minimal packaging.
- Verify the power cord length before buying, especially if your kitchen outlet is not near the counter.
- Avoid paying for advanced features such as inverter technology or sensor cooking unless you truly need them, since they raise the price significantly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Cheap Microwave
Even experienced shoppers sometimes make avoidable errors. Here are the most frequent pitfalls and how to prevent them.
- Buying solely on price: The cheapest model may have poor reviews or a short lifespan. Balance cost with reliability.
- Ignoring dimensions: A microwave that looks small in a photo may not fit your counter or cabinet space.
- Skipping the test on secondhand units: Always plug in and run a used microwave before finalizing the purchase.
- Assuming all wattages cook the same: A 600-watt microwave takes noticeably longer than a 1000-watt model to heat the same food.
- Overlooking the return window: Some discount retailers have strict 14- or 30-day return policies. Keep your receipt and packaging.
- Using unsafe containers: Never put metal, aluminum foil, or non-microwave-safe plastic inside any microwave, regardless of price.
Installation, Safety, and Maintenance
Proper setup and care extend the life of your budget microwave and keep it safe to use.
Placement and Ventilation
Set the microwave on a flat, stable surface with at least a few inches of clearance on the sides and back for airflow. Do not enclose it in a tight cabinet unless the manufacturer specifically approves that installation.
Electrical Safety
Plug the microwave directly into a grounded wall outlet rather than an extension cord or power strip whenever possible. If the cord is damaged, stop using the appliance and replace it or have it repaired by a qualified technician.
Cleaning and Care
Wipe the interior with a damp cloth and mild detergent after spills. For stubborn odors, heat a bowl of water with lemon slices for a few minutes, then wipe clean. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that can damage the interior coating.
When to Replace
If the door no longer seals properly, the control panel stops responding, or the microwave sparks during operation, replace it rather than attempting a risky repair. Most budget microwaves last three to five years with regular use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest price for a microwave?
You can sometimes find basic countertop microwaves for $50 to $60 during clearance sales or when buying secondhand. New budget models typically start around $60 to $75, depending on the brand, capacity, and retailer.
Where to get a cheap microwave?
You can get a cheap microwave from online retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, eBay, and Target, or locally at big-box stores, thrift shops, pawn shops, and Habitat for Humanity ReStores. Local online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist also list used units at low prices.
Are cheap microwaves safe?
Yes, inexpensive microwaves are safe when they are used according to the manufacturer’s instructions and are in good physical condition. Check that the door seals correctly, the cord is intact, and the interior is clean before regular use.
Can I find a good microwave under $100?
Absolutely. Many reliable countertop microwaves with 700 to 1000 watts and capacities between 0.7 and 1.1 cubic feet sell for under $100. They are ideal for reheating, defrosting, and simple cooking tasks.
Should I buy a refurbished microwave?
A refurbished microwave can be a smart way to save money if it comes from the manufacturer or a certified seller with a warranty. Avoid refurbished units sold “as-is” with no return option, especially if you cannot inspect them first.
What wattage should a cheap microwave have?
Most budget microwaves range from 600 to 900 watts. Seven hundred watts is sufficient for reheating beverages and leftovers, while 1000 watts heats food faster and handles frozen meals more effectively.
Where can I buy a cheap microwave locally?
Local options include Walmart, Target, Best Buy, Home Depot, Lowe’s, thrift stores, pawn shops, and Habitat for Humanity ReStores. You can also search Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and OfferUp for sellers in your area.
How long do budget microwaves last?
With typical household use, a budget microwave often lasts three to five years. Regular cleaning, gentle door handling, and avoiding overloading the unit can help it reach the upper end of that range.
Conclusion
Finding where to get a cheap microwave does not have to mean sacrificing quality or safety. Online retailers offer convenience and comparison tools, while local stores and secondhand marketplaces provide immediate availability and lower prices. By understanding your wattage and capacity needs, comparing trusted budget brands, and following a simple step-by-step process, you can confidently purchase a microwave that fits your budget.
Remember to inspect the unit when it arrives, test it with a cup of water, and keep your receipt in case you need a return. Avoid common mistakes such as ignoring dimensions or buying the absolute cheapest model without checking reviews. With the right approach, a budget microwave can serve you well for years.
Whether you need an appliance for a dorm room, office, or small apartment, the options covered in this guide give you a solid starting point. Take your time, compare a few models, and choose the one that matches your space and cooking habits.