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Best Reasonable Microwaves
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The microwave oven is an indispensable workhorse in the modern kitchen, handling everything from quickly reheating leftovers to defrosting last-minute dinner ingredients. However, navigating the vast market of available models can be overwhelming.

The challenge lies in finding a unit that delivers consistent performance and reliability without an exorbitant price tag. This is where the search for the best reasonable microwaves becomes crucial for savvy consumers.

It’s not simply about finding the cheapest option, but about identifying appliances that offer exceptional value for your investment. This guide is designed to cut through the noise, helping you understand the key features that matter most and steer you toward the best reasonable microwaves that perfectly balance cost, functionality, and long-term durability.

Top 10 Best Reasonable Microwaves Compared

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft

πŸ† BEST OVERALL TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft

  • Smart sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power.
  • Convenient one-touch start and multiple preset menus.
  • Ten adjustable power levels offer greater cooking flexibility.
  • Mute function allows for quiet, non-disruptive operation.
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4.5/5 Check Price on Amazon
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

πŸ₯ˆ 2ND RUNNER UP Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

  • Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, and offices.
  • Includes useful convenience features like a mute function and child safety lock.
  • Intuitive digital controls with multiple presets and a memory function.
  • Sleek, modern design that is easy to wipe clean.
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4.5/5 Check Price on Amazon
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door

οΏ½ BEST VALUE BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door

  • Compact size is ideal for small kitchens and dorm rooms.
  • User-friendly control panel with a large, clear digital display.
  • Includes convenient pre-programmed settings and a 30-second express cook button.
  • Features 10 distinct power levels for cooking flexibility.
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4.7/5 Check Price on Amazon
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6" Carousel Turntable
  • Compact size is ideal for smaller kitchens or apartments.
  • Modern design with LED lighting and an easy-to-read display.
  • Convenient one-touch buttons like '+30 seconds' and 'Express Cook'.
  • Turntable system and multiple power levels promote even cooking.
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4.4/5 Check Price on Amazon
TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven with 11 Power Levels

TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven with 11 Power Levels

  • Compact, space-saving design ideal for small areas.
  • User-friendly controls with convenient one-touch start options.
  • Mute function allows for silent operation.
  • Multiple power levels offer good cooking versatility.
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4.4/5 Check Price on Amazon
BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door

BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door

  • Intuitive controls with a large, easy-to-read digital display.
  • Multiple one-touch presets for common food items.
  • Convenient 30-second express cooking function.
  • Compact exterior dimensions suitable for most kitchen counters.
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4.4/5 Check Price on Amazon
TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable

TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable

  • Spacious 1.6 cu. ft. capacity and powerful 1200-watt performance.
  • Position-memory turntable returns to its original spot for easy access.
  • Option to mute the beeper is a great convenience feature.
  • Sensor cooking menus provide accurate heating for common foods.
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4.8/5 Check Price on Amazon
COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off

COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off

  • Mute function to silence all operational beeps.
  • Two-step child lock for enhanced safety.
  • Convenient one-touch express cooking and auto-cook presets.
  • Energy-saving Eco mode helps reduce standby power usage.
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4.5/5 Check Price on Amazon
TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology

TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology

  • Large capacity with a 13.6-inch turntable.
  • Inverter technology provides even heating and defrosting.
  • Smart sensor menus automate cooking for popular foods.
  • Convenient features like one-touch start and sound on/off option.
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4.8/5 Check Price on Amazon
Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts

Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts

  • Powerful 1000-watt output for quick heating.
  • Compact 1.1 cu ft size is ideal for small spaces.
  • Features six one-touch presets for common foods.
  • Offers 10 adjustable power levels for customized cooking.
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4.8/5 Check Price on Amazon

Detailed Reviews of the Best Reasonable Microwaves

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft - Smart sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power.

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft

This 1000-watt countertop microwave is a capable and feature-rich appliance for most daily kitchen tasks. The Smart Sensor technology is a standout feature, automatically adjusting cook times for things like reheating leftovers, which helps prevent uneven heating and guesswork. For quick meals, the six preset menus and the one-touch start (1-6 minutes at full power) are very convenient.

I also appreciate the flexibility offered by the ten distinct power levels, which are useful for more delicate tasks. The dimensions are fairly standard, but it's always wise to measure your space first; the 12.4-inch turntable is large enough for a standard dinner plate. A nice bonus is the mute function, which is great for late-night use without disturbing anyone.

Overall, it's a well-rounded microwave that balances automated features with manual control, making it a solid choice for any household.

Pros

  • Smart sensor automatically adjusts cooking time and power.
  • Convenient one-touch start and multiple preset menus.
  • Ten adjustable power levels offer greater cooking flexibility.
  • Mute function allows for quiet, non-disruptive operation.
  • 1000 watts provides solid cooking and reheating power.
  • Dedicated defrost options for both weight and time.

Cons

  • External dimensions may be too large for smaller kitchen counters.
  • The 1600W input power is on the higher side for a 1000W output unit.

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. - Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, and offices.

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

This Chefman 700W microwave is a solid, compact appliance that handles everyday tasks effectively. Its smaller footprint makes it an excellent choice for dorm rooms, office breakrooms, or kitchens with limited counter space. The digital controls are intuitive, and the six presets for common items like popcorn and pizza are a convenient touch.

I particularly appreciate the thoughtful features like the child safety lock and the mute option, which silences the beepsβ€”a great addition for late-night snacks. While 700 watts is on the lower end of the power spectrum, meaning it might take a bit longer to heat things thoroughly compared to a 1000W model, it performs reliably for reheating leftovers, melting butter, and preparing simple meals. The easy-to-clean exterior and dishwasher-safe turntable simplify maintenance.

Overall, it's a well-designed microwave that packs a lot of useful functions into its small frame.

Pros

  • Compact size is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, and offices.
  • Includes useful convenience features like a mute function and child safety lock.
  • Intuitive digital controls with multiple presets and a memory function.
  • Sleek, modern design that is easy to wipe clean.
  • Ten adjustable power levels provide cooking versatility.

Cons

  • The 700W power level results in slightly longer cooking times than higher-wattage models.
  • Its smaller internal capacity may not fit large dinner plates or bulky cookware.

BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door - Compact size is ideal for small kitchens and dorm rooms.

BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door

This 700-watt microwave is a solid choice for those with limited counter space, such as in apartments, dorms, or office kitchens. It handles basic daily tasks like reheating leftovers, defrosting, and cooking simple meals quite effectively. The control panel is straightforward and easy to read, thanks to the large LED display.

The pre-programmed buttons for common items like popcorn and potatoes are a convenient touch, and the 30-second express cooking feature is particularly useful for quick heating. The 10-inch turntable is large enough to accommodate a standard dinner plate. While its 700-watt power level means it may take slightly longer to cook than more powerful models, it performs reliably for its size and price point.

The inclusion of a child safety lock is a thoughtful feature for households with young children. Overall, it's a practical and functional appliance for everyday use.

Pros

  • Compact size is ideal for small kitchens and dorm rooms.
  • User-friendly control panel with a large, clear digital display.
  • Includes convenient pre-programmed settings and a 30-second express cook button.
  • Features 10 distinct power levels for cooking flexibility.
  • Child safety lock provides an added layer of security.

Cons

  • The 700-watt power output results in slightly longer cooking times compared to higher-wattage models.
  • Interior capacity is best suited for small to standard-sized dishes, not large cookware.

TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven with 11 Power Levels - Compact, space-saving design ideal for small areas.

TOSHIBA Small Microwave Oven with 11 Power Levels

This compact microwave is a solid choice for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or office spaces. With 700 watts of power, it handles everyday tasks like reheating leftovers, making popcorn, and defrosting single-serving meals effectively, though it may take slightly longer than higher-wattage models. The control panel is intuitive, featuring one-touch start buttons for 1-6 minutes and several useful auto-cook menus.

The 11 distinct power levels provide good flexibility for more delicate jobs. One of the standout features is the ChefDefrost, which works quite well to thaw food more evenly. The ability to mute the end-of-cycle beeps is also a very welcome and thoughtful addition.

Its small footprint is its biggest asset, but be sure to measure your dinner plates, as the 9.6-inch turntable is best suited for standard-sized dishes. Overall, it’s a functional and straightforward appliance for its intended use.

Pros

  • Compact, space-saving design ideal for small areas.
  • User-friendly controls with convenient one-touch start options.
  • Mute function allows for silent operation.
  • Multiple power levels offer good cooking versatility.
  • Specialized defrost feature works efficiently.

Cons

  • Lower 700W power means cooking and reheating can take longer.
  • The small interior and turntable may not accommodate larger plates or cookware.

BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door - Intuitive controls with a large, easy-to-read digital display.

BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door

This 900-watt microwave is a solid choice for everyday heating and cooking tasks. The control panel is straightforward, featuring a large, bright LED display and pre-programmed buttons for common items like popcorn, potatoes, and beverages, which is quite convenient. The 30-second express cook button is also a useful feature for quick reheats.

Its overall footprint is reasonably compact, making it suitable for countertops where space might be a consideration. The 10.6-inch turntable is removable for easy cleaning, and the interior light is helpful for monitoring food. Safety features like the child lock are a welcome addition for households with young children.

While it may not be the most powerful unit on the market, its 10 power levels provide good flexibility for a variety of needs, from defrosting to cooking a full meal. It performs its core functions reliably and without unnecessary complexity.

Pros

  • Intuitive controls with a large, easy-to-read digital display.
  • Multiple one-touch presets for common food items.
  • Convenient 30-second express cooking function.
  • Compact exterior dimensions suitable for most kitchen counters.
  • Includes a child safety lock for added security.
  • Removable turntable makes for simple cleaning.

Cons

  • At 900 watts, it may cook or heat more slowly than higher-wattage models.
  • The 10.6-inch turntable may be too small for some larger plates or casserole dishes.

TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable - Spacious 1.6 cu. ft. capacity and powerful 1200-watt performance.

TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable

This 1.6 cu. ft. microwave offers a solid combination of power and space, making it a suitable choice for families.

At 1200 watts, it heats food quickly and the 10 power levels provide good control. The pre-programmed sensor menus for items like pizza and vegetables are a convenient touch, taking the guesswork out of cook times. One of the standout features is the position-memory turntable, which returns to its starting pointβ€”a small but surprisingly helpful detail for grabbing mugs by the handle.

Another excellent feature is the ability to mute the beeper, which is great for quiet households. The black stainless-steel finish gives it a modern look that fits well in most kitchens. It also includes all the standard functions you'd expect, such as auto-defrost, a child lock, and a kitchen timer.

Overall, it's a capable and well-thought-out appliance for daily use.

Pros

  • Spacious 1.6 cu. ft. capacity and powerful 1200-watt performance.
  • Position-memory turntable returns to its original spot for easy access.
  • Option to mute the beeper is a great convenience feature.
  • Sensor cooking menus provide accurate heating for common foods.
  • Sleek black stainless-steel design.

Cons

  • The large external dimensions may require significant counter space.
  • The number of features and functions might be complex for users seeking a simple appliance.

COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off - Mute function to silence all operational beeps.

COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off

This microwave oven covers all the essential bases for daily kitchen use and adds a few thoughtful features that enhance the experience. The one-touch express cook buttons for 1-6 minutes and the +30 seconds function are incredibly convenient for quick heating tasks. The various auto-cook presets, including popcorn, potato, and pizza, take the guesswork out of common jobs, and the dual defrost options (by weight or time) add welcome versatility.

A standout feature is the mute function, which is perfect for households that prefer a quieter environment, as it silences all beeps with a simple long press. For families with young children, the two-step child lock provides an important layer of safety and peace of mind. The addition of an Eco mode to reduce standby power consumption is also a nice touch for those looking to be more energy-efficient.

Overall, it's a well-rounded and practical appliance for standard use.

Pros

  • Mute function to silence all operational beeps.
  • Two-step child lock for enhanced safety.
  • Convenient one-touch express cooking and auto-cook presets.
  • Energy-saving Eco mode helps reduce standby power usage.
  • Versatile defrosting options by either weight or time.

Cons

  • Lacks advanced features like sensor cooking or a convection function.
  • The two-step child lock, while safe, may be slightly less convenient for adults to disable quickly.

TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology - Large capacity with a 13.6-inch turntable.

TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology

This Toshiba microwave offers a generous capacity, easily fitting a 12-inch pizza on its large 13.6-inch removable turntable. The stainless steel finish on the door frame provides a modern look. A key feature is the Inverter technology, which aims to deliver more even heating and defrosting compared to conventional models.

For convenience, it includes six pre-programmed sensor menus that automatically adjust power for items like potatoes and vegetables. Other user-friendly functions include one-touch quick start for 1-3 minutes, a power-saving eco mode, and a child lock. A particularly useful option is the ability to mute the beeping sounds, which is great for households sensitive to noise.

The unit is quite large, so be sure to check the external dimensions and allow for proper ventilation space before purchasing. It's a capable and well-featured appliance for everyday use.

Pros

  • Large capacity with a 13.6-inch turntable.
  • Inverter technology provides even heating and defrosting.
  • Smart sensor menus automate cooking for popular foods.
  • Convenient features like one-touch start and sound on/off option.
  • Sleek, modern stainless steel and black design.

Cons

  • The control panel is not backlit, which may be difficult to read in low light conditions.
  • Requires significant counter space due to its large external dimensions.

Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts - Powerful 1000-watt output for quick heating.

Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts

This Farberware microwave offers a solid balance of power and size, making it a suitable choice for smaller kitchens, apartments, or office settings. With 1000 watts of power, it heats food efficiently, and the 1.1 cu ft capacity is adequate for standard dinner plates and containers. The control panel is straightforward, featuring ten distinct power levels and six convenient one-touch cooking presets for common items like popcorn and potatoes.

The defrost options, both by time and weight, add to its versatility for meal prep. Additional features like the clear LED display, interior light, and a child safety lock are practical, everyday inclusions. It performs as expected for a microwave in its class, handling daily reheating and simple cooking tasks reliably.

The easy-to-clean surfaces are a definite plus for routine maintenance, simplifying cleanup after use.

Pros

  • Powerful 1000-watt output for quick heating.
  • Compact 1.1 cu ft size is ideal for small spaces.
  • Features six one-touch presets for common foods.
  • Offers 10 adjustable power levels for customized cooking.
  • Includes useful functions like a child lock and two defrost modes.
  • Easy-to-clean interior and exterior surfaces.

Cons

  • Lacks advanced features like sensor cooking or convection functions.
  • The capacity might be limiting for very large or family-sized dishes.

Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Reasonable Microwaves

No buying guide available.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Reasonable Microwaves

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Conclusion: The Final Verdict

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft this microwave is a strong contender, offering a great balance of smart features, user-friendly controls, and sufficient power for everyday use. it's an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable and versatile countertop model that takes the guesswork out of reheating and defrosting.