If you are on a tight budget, then you are already aware that getting a solid and reliable kitchen appliance can prove to be a rather daunting task. Shopping for microwaves with a budget of $100 or less often means giving up on lots of things.
Some of the things that you should be willing to give up on include voice-enabled controls, larger cooking capacities, sensor technologies, Wi-Fi capabilities, just to name a few.
That being said, it is important to note that most microwaves within this price range do come with limited features and trimmed-down functionalities, as they are considered to be entry-level microwaves. This, in turn, makes these microwaves suitable for dorms, small apartments, and small offices.
If you have a large or medium-sized family, then you should definitely consider getting microwaves with larger cooking capacities.
Furthermore, it is also equally important to note that getting a convection microwave or microwaves with inverter technologies within this price range is nearly impossible. This is mainly because inverter and convection technologies tend to be costly, thus microwaves integrated with these technologies tend to go for not less than $150.
Nonetheless, with proper research, you’ll still be able to get a decent and functional microwave under $100 that will not only provide a seamless cooking experience but will also last for a long time.
That being said, we’ve compiled the best microwaves under $100 in the market for you. We’ve tested many of these microwaves on our best microwaves under $100 list and have included a link below each microwave for a more detailed review.
Best Microwaves For Dorms-Quick List
Editor's Choice
Black + Decker EM720CB7
Best Overall
- Sleek design
- Spacious interior and exterior
- Easy to read control panel
- Comes with a sensor for optimal results
-Does slide over the counter
2nd Best Choice
Comfee’ EM720CPL-PMB
2nd Best Option
- Features a stylish design for enhanced aesthetics
- Offers up to 1050 watts ensuring fast cooking and heating times
- Comes with an energy saving mode
- Offers users upto 11 power levels for seamless cooking
-Takes way longer to heat or warm food
Budget Option
COMMERCIAL CHEF 0.9 Cubic Foot Microwave
Budget Option
- Comes with up to 10 power levels
- Features a stylistic design that will elevate the overall appearance of any space
- Integrated with an intuitive control panel for easy operation
–The two short buzzers followed by a longer last buzzer can be annoying for some people.
-The material used for the overall design feels somewhat cheaper
The Best Convection Microwave Ovens
1. Black + Decker EM720CB7
4.5
The Black + Decker countertop microwave tops our seven best microwaves under $100 list for obvious reasons. Apart from sporting a contemporary design that will accentuate the design of any space, the Black + Decker countertop microwave also comes with a solid build that guarantees longevity.
Despite going for less than $100, the Black + Decker EM720CB7 comes loaded with plenty of features and technology. One feature that really stood out for us is the cooking sensor technology.
The Black + Decker 700 w microwave is also integrated with cooking sensor technology that ensures all meals are cooked or warmed to perfection. Thus, with this microwave unevenly cooked meals will be a thing of the past.
In addition to the cooking sensor technology, the Black + Decker microwave also comes with extra features that will definitely come in handy in any house, office or dorm. Some of these extra features include the easy defrost function for thawing frozen vegetables and meat and the auto-cook presets.
If you have children, then you can always use the child-lock function to prevent the curious fingers from playing with or turning on the microwave accidentally.
Being an entry level microwave, the Black + Decker is available in two main capacities, the 0.7cu ft option and the 1.1cu ft. option.
Because of its rather small size, the 0.7cu ft Black + Decker microwave will fit in the tiniest of spaces. Get this microwave and place it on top of your refrigerator, kitchen countertop, or within the kitchen cabinet.
That being said, the only draw down of this small but compact microwave is that it can only serve 1 to 3 people.
Thus, if you have a large or medium-sized family, then you may want to check out our comprehensive guide on the best convection microwaves or best microwaves under $200 list.
Many of the microwaves on this list not only offer users more cooking space for large meals, but also come with additional functionalities, eliminating the need for air fryers or convection ovens.
Read this Black + Decker EM720CB7 Microwave Oven Review for full details.
2. Comfee’ EM720CPL-PMB
4.3
While Comfee’ is not a household name like Samsung or Philips, it’s still a solid brand that continues to design reliable and functional kitchen appliances. Like many of their well-designed modern products, the Comfee’ EM720CPL-PMB does not disappoint.
Built with an elegant metallic design and a well-polished exterior, the Comfee’ EM720CPL-PMB is readily available in 5 different color options. Depending on your needs, preferences and stylistic wiggle room, you can either settle for black, retro apricot, retro green, retro red or white options.
The Comfee’ EM720 comes packed with plenty of features. The control panel is definitely what stood out with us from the get go. Located on the right-hand side of the microwave, the intuitive control panel is not only easy to use but also well-lit and labelled.
The Comfee’ EM720CPL-PMB also comes with a mute function, which is the icing on the cake, especially in the dorm or office environments.
This, in turn, means that you can easily use the microwave oven even in the wee hours of the night while studying or working late.
If you’ve got kids in your home, then you’ll definitely love the child lock feature, that definitely comes in handy in preventing kids from tampering with the appliance.
Another crucial feature that really stood out for us here at Appliance Camp was the defrost function, which allows users to defrost meals by either weight or time.
It is important to point out that this is an entry level microwave, so this microwave not only takes longer to heat up food, but can only serve 2 to 3 people tops.
Thus, if you have a large or medium sized family, then this might not be the right option for you.
Checkout our Comfee’ EM720CPL-PMB review for full details. for full details.
3. COMFEE CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave
4.1
Sporting an authentic retro design, this modish microwave is a solid proof that size is not everything. Despite having an internal capacity of only 0.7cu ft, the Comfee CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave will definitely take the interior design of any kitchen or space to a whole new level.
Moreover, the Comfee CMO-C20M1WH Microwave is also readily available in multiple color options from green, white, black, apricot and red. Thus, irrespective of the colors you settled for in your kitchen, you’ll definitely get an option that will sit well with the interior design of your home.
This Comfee retro microwave also comes with a well layered, easy to read control panel that’s located on the right-hand side of the microwave. Prepare any meal with the press of a button from frozen vegetables to dinner plates to pizza and so much more.
A high-performing microwave, the Comfee CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave offers users up to 11 power levels, which is way more than that offered by most microwaves on this list.
In addition, if you have kids then this microwave will definitely come in handy as it comes with a child lock function.
Another thing that really stood out for us with the Comfee retro microwave is the easy to clean cooking cavity that will go a long way in ensuring that you get rid of spillages and spurts with ease. The hard-wearing material used to design the interior is not only scratch resistant but also stain resistant.
The icing on the cake for this microwave is the entry level pricing, which makes the COMFEE CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave within reach for anyone on a budget but in need of a solid and stylish microwave.
That being said, while the 0.7cu feet option is a solid option, it’s not recommended for medium sized families. Instead, you should opt for the 0.9cu feet option that’s available for a couple more dollars.
It not only comes with more space, but also offers users more power which means your food will cook much faster in comparison to the 0.7 cu feet option.
You’ll definitely love it!!
4. Galanz GLCMKZ07RDR07 Retro Countertop Microwave Oven
4.0
Sporting an authentic retro design, this modish microwave is a solid proof that size is not everything. Despite having an internal capacity of only 0.7cu ft, the Comfee CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave will definitely take the interior design of any kitchen or space to a whole new level.
Moreover, the Comfee CMO-C20M1WH Microwave is also readily available in multiple color options from green, white, black, apricot and red. Thus, irrespective of the colors you settled for in your kitchen, you’ll definitely get an option that will sit well with the interior design of your home.
This Comfee retro microwave also comes with a well layered, easy to read control panel that’s located on the right-hand side of the microwave. Prepare any meal with the press of a button from frozen vegetables to dinner plates to pizza and so much more.
A high-performing microwave, the Comfee CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave offers users up to 11 power levels, which is way more than that offered by most microwaves on this list.
In addition, if you have kids then this microwave will definitely come in handy as it comes with a child lock function.
Another thing that really stood out for us with the Comfee retro microwave is the easy to clean cooking cavity that will go a long way in ensuring that you get rid of spillages and spurts with ease. The hard-wearing material used to design the interior is not only scratch resistant but also stain resistant.
The icing on the cake for this microwave is the entry level pricing, which makes the COMFEE CMO-C20M1WH Retro Microwave within reach for anyone on a budget but in need of a solid and stylish microwave.
That being said, while the 0.7cu feet option is a solid option, it’s not recommended for medium sized families. Instead, you should opt for the 0.9cu feet option that’s available for a couple more dollars.
It not only comes with more space, but also offers users more power which means your food will cook much faster in comparison to the 0.7 cu feet option.
You’ll definitely love it!!
5. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven
4.0
If you are looking for a decent entry level microwave that will offer you the best bang for your bucks, then you should definitely consider getting the Chefman Countertop microwave oven.
Featuring a well-designed stainless-steel exterior, the Chefman countertop will definitely add a touch of elegance to any space, be it your kitchen or office.
Built with a stainless-steel exterior and a well-coated interior, the Chefman countertop microwave oven is also easy to clean and wipe. This, in turn, means that you will be able to save plenty of time when it comes to cleaning the microwave.
Simply use a paper towel or a slightly wet kitchen towel to clean both the interior and exterior of the microwave.
The Chefman countertop also comes with a mute function that allows users to cook or warm their favorite meals regardless of the time. This compact microwave comes integrated with an eco-mode, which will go a long way in keeping your energy consumption low.
Unlike most microwaves on this list, the Chefman countertop microwave also comes with a child lock feature, which will go a long way in ensuring that kids do not accidentally turn on the microwave when they are alone in the house.
To turn on the child lock feature, simply hold the power button for up to 3 seconds or more.
6. COMMERCIAL CHEF 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave-Budget Option
3.9
Very few entry level microwaves do offer users a perfect balance between size and power, and one such microwave is the COMMERCIAL CHEF 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave.
Apart from sporting a solid and sleek design, the Commercial Chef 0.7 cu ft microwave also comes with what is undoubtedly one of the best laid out control panels in the market.
The overall layout and arrangements of the control panels and the buttons is what really stood out to us with the COMMERCIAL CHEF 0.7 cu microwave. The intricately well-defined arrangements and layout not only make the microwave easy to use but also make the entire cooking process seamless.
In addition to the well-laid out control panel, the material used to design the microwave felt quite premium and sturdy. It is important to note that this is not usually the case with many microwaves within this price range.
Another feature that definitely makes the Commercial Chef 0.7 cubic foot microwave stand out is the increased wattage capacity of 700 watts. The higher wattage capacity means that the microwave is able to heat food much faster when compared to most microwaves on this list.
The COMMERCIAL CHEF 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave also comes with 10 power levels, allowing users to cook their favorite meals seamlessly. Because of its somewhat larger cooking capacity, the Commercial Chef CHM990B is able to easily accommodate medium-sized plates and can serve households of up to 3 people.
Depending on your budget, you can choose between the 0.6cu ft option, which goes for $73 and comes with a slightly different control panel. Another option that you can settle for is the 0.7cu ft option that comes with a different overall design.
Things to Consider When Shopping for Microwaves Under $100
Build
One of the most important things to put into consideration when shopping for a microwave with a budget of $100, is the build of the microwave. While it is nearly impossible to get a microwave with a premium build within this price range, this does not mean that you should settle for one that comes with a crappy build.
As a matter of fact, there are plenty of microwaves within the $100 price range that do come with a solid build that will last for a long time. Microwaves such as the Black + Decker EM720CB7 and the Comfee’ EM720CPL-PMB do come with a stainless-steel, aluminum construction that’s not only durable but will also add a modern touch to any kitchen.
In addition, you will also want to look for a microwave that comes with a sturdy door mechanism. For instance, with the Black + Decker EM720CB7, you will be able to easily open door easily thanks to the push button that’s located just underneath the control panel.
Power and Wattage
Apart from the build quality, you will also want to put the wattage and power into consideration as well. When shopping for your next microwave oven, it is important to avoid settling for microwaves below 700 watts.
Extremely lower wattage capacity often means slower cooking times, which will not only take away from our rather busy schedules but will also as well result in undercooked food or poor tasting microwaved meals.
That being said, within the $100 price range, you will be able to get good reliable microwaves with wattage ratings of between 700 watts all the way to 900 watts.
Ease of Use
Another thing that you may want to put into consideration is ease of use. When shopping for your next microwave oven under $100, you will want to settle for one that comes with a well laid out control panel and buttons.
Well laid out control panels often means that you will not only be able to access presets or your desired setups and configurations effortlessly. That being said, you should totally avoid microwaves that come with knobs or anything of the sorts.
One such microwave is the COMMERCIAL CHEF 0.6 Cubic Foot microwave, that comes with knobs for the timer and power level.
Additional Features
While many of the microwaves within this price range do not come with plenty of additional features, there are a few features that will definitely come in handy. One such feature is the child lock feature, which will prove to be quite useful, especially if you have kids within your house.
Another useful feature that you may want to put into consideration when shopping for a microwave under $100 is the mute function. The mute function will allow you to prepare or warm your favorite meals without having to worry about waking up anyone.
