Finding a reliable microwave that doesn’t break the bank can feel like hunting for a needle in a haystack. Luckily, the market offers plenty of compact, powerful options under $100 that fit snugly on tight countertops while still delivering the cooking performance you need. Below you’ll find our carefully tested picks, complete with key features, real‑world pros and cons, and honest customer feedback, so you can choose the perfect microwave for your kitchen without overspending.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Microwave Under 100 Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA Small Countertop Microwave, 0.9 cu ft, 900W, LED Light, 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function, Removable Turntable – Black Stainless Steel
The Toshiba ML‑EM09PA packs 900 W of power into a sleek 0.9 cu ft footprint, perfect for apartments or dorm rooms. Its six auto‑menu presets make popcorn, pizza and veggies a breeze, while the mute function keeps the beeping to a minimum.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 900 W high‑output cooking power
✓ 6 preset auto‑menus
✓ Child‑lock safety
✓ Removable turntable for easy cleaning
✓ Quiet mute function
Why We Recommend It
This model balances power, size, and convenience, delivering restaurant‑like results without hogging counter space. The modern black stainless finish also adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen.
Best For
Small kitchens, students, and anyone who wants a compact yet capable microwave.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful 900 W output
- Compact design fits tight spaces
- Six handy auto‑menu presets
- Quiet operation with mute button
Cons:
- No convection feature
- Turntable is removable but not dishwasher safe
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This Toshiba microwave is exactly what I needed! It’s compact enough to fit perfectly on my small kitchen counter but still powerful enough to heat food quickly and evenly… Highly recommend for apartments, dorms, or anyone short on counter space!”
Customer Review: “I’m really pleased with this Toshiba microwave. It’s the perfect size for a small kitchen… The mute function is great if you don’t want loud beeping sounds all the time.”
2. COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave, 0.7 cu ft, 700W, Sound On/Off, ECO Mode, One‑Touch Buttons, Black
The COMFEE’ EM720CPL‑PMB offers a quiet cooking experience with a dedicated mute button and ECO mode for energy savings. Its one‑touch express cooking buttons make reheating fast and simple.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 700 W power suitable for everyday meals
✓ Sound On/Off mute function
✓ ECO mode reduces energy use
✓ One‑touch express cooking
✓ Child‑lock safety
Why We Recommend It
Its quiet operation and eco‑friendly features are perfect for shared living spaces where noise matters.
Best For
Roommates, small apartments, and eco‑conscious users.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Mute function for silent cooking
- ECO mode saves electricity
- One‑touch presets for convenience
- Compact 0.7 cu ft size
Cons:
- Lower wattage means longer cook times for large items
- No grill or convection function
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The mute button is a lifesaver for early morning reheats. The one‑touch buttons are super intuitive and the ECO mode really does cut down on the power bill.”
Customer Review: “Fits perfectly on my dorm desk‑side table. It’s quiet, easy to use, and the child lock gives me peace of mind even though I don’t have kids.”
3. Chefman 0.9 cu ft Countertop Microwave Oven, 900W, 10 Power Levels, 6 Presets, Eco Mode, Child Lock, Mute Button – Black
Chefman’s 0.9 cu ft model delivers 900 W of power with ten adjustable power levels, making it versatile for everything from popcorn to gentle defrosting. The child lock and mute button add safety and quiet operation.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 10 power levels for precise cooking
✓ 6 preset programs
✓ Eco mode for lower energy use
✓ Child lock for safety
✓ Mute button reduces beeping
Why We Recommend It
Its combination of power, flexibility, and budget‑friendly price makes it a standout value for anyone needing a reliable countertop microwave.
Best For
First‑time microwave owners and budget‑conscious shoppers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Strong 900 W output
- Ten power levels for fine control
- Eco mode saves electricity
- Compact yet spacious interior
Cons:
- Keypad can feel stiff
- No grill or convection capability
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought this microwave primarily because… the child‑proof lock is a clever design. The keypad requires some force, but it works and the microwave cooks well.”
Customer Review: “Love the compact size. Good quality, works as intended. Quiet operation, easy to clean with removable glass turntable.”
4. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven, 0.7 cu ft, 700W, Turntable Push‑Button Door, Child Safety Lock, Stainless Steel
BLACK+DECKER’s EM720CB7 blends a sleek stainless finish with 700 W of cooking power, offering six handy preset buttons and a convenient push‑button door for quick access.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 700 W power for everyday meals
✓ Push‑button door for easy opening
✓ Six one‑touch presets
✓ Child safety lock
✓ Stainless steel exterior
Why We Recommend It
The sturdy build and simple controls make this a dependable workhorse for busy kitchens, especially when you need quick reheating without fuss.
Best For
Families looking for a reliable, easy‑to‑use microwave with a modern look.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Durable stainless steel design
- Push‑button door adds convenience
- Six preset cooking options
- Child lock for safety
Cons:
- Only 700 W, slower for large dishes
- No mute function
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The turntable button is a nice touch and the presets work well for popcorn and pizza. It’s quiet enough for a shared apartment.”
Customer Review: “Simple controls, sturdy feel, and the child lock gives me peace of mind. Wish it had a mute button though.”
5. Chefman 1.1 cu ft Countertop Microwave Oven, 1000W, 10 Power Levels, 6 Presets, Eco Mode, Child Lock, Mute Button – Black
This larger Chefman model offers 1000 W of power and a spacious 1.1 cu ft cavity, making it suitable for bigger plates while still fitting on most countertops.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 1000 W high‑power cooking
✓ 1.1 cu ft interior
✓ 10 power levels + 6 presets
✓ Eco mode and mute button
✓ Child lock for safety
Why We Recommend It
If you need a bit more interior space without exceeding $100, this microwave delivers the extra power and flexibility you’d expect from a higher‑priced model.
Best For
Small families or roommates who need a bit more room for plates and dishes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Generous 1.1 cu ft capacity
- Strong 1000 W output
- Eco and mute functions
- Child lock for safety
Cons:
- May be slightly larger than some tight counters
- Keypad can feel stiff (as noted in reviews)
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought this microwave primarily because… the child‑proof lock is a clever design. The keypad requires superhuman strength but it works and the microwave cooks well.”
Customer Review: “Love the compact counter saving size. Good quality, works as intended. Quiet operation, easy to clean with removable glass turntable.”
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