Top budget friendly microwaves in the Globe

Microwaves have become essential in kitchens worldwide, offering quick heating solutions for a wide range of dishes, from simple soups to leftovers.

For those looking to add a microwave to their home without breaking the bank, various affordable models on the market today balance price with reliable functionality.

Highlights the top affordable microwaves globally, providing a breakdown of each model’s features, costs, and practical benefits for the cost-conscious consumer.

Cookworks 700W Microwave: Budget Choice in the UK

For UK residents, the Cookworks 700W Microwave from Argos stands out as an excellent choice, costing approximately £50 (about $60 USD). It’s ideal for those looking for an easy-to-operate microwave with basic functionality. Key features include:

Power: 700 watts, which is sufficient for heating and defrosting most meals.

Capacity: 17 liters, a compact size that fits smaller kitchens or those with limited counter space.

Control: Mechanical dial controls with six power settings for flexibility.

Users appreciate the simplicity of this model, which includes a rotating turntable that ensures even heating, helping to prevent the hot and cold spots that some basic microwaves struggle with​

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​THE STANDARD

. Given its straightforward design, this model is an excellent option for those who need an appliance to handle everyday reheating without advanced features.

Daewoo KOR6L15: Reliable, No-Frills Performance

The Daewoo KOR6L15 is another microwave that offers simple functionality at an affordable price, typically around £60-£70 (or $70-85 USD). Known for its reliability, this model is particularly suitable for individuals who value ease of use. Key highlights include:

Power: 700 watts, making it a good option for basic cooking needs.

Capacity: 20 liters, which is slightly larger than other budget options, providing enough space for reheating family-sized portions.

Control: Rotary dials for straightforward operation, which many users find intuitive.

This Daewoo model includes a dual-wave heating system, which helps distribute heat more evenly, a rare feature at this price point​

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. Without advanced settings or digital controls, it’s perfect for anyone seeking simplicity and durability.

Sharp YC-MS02U-S: Compact Efficiency with Energy-Saving Features

If you’re looking for a microwave that combines compact size with energy efficiency, the Sharp YC-MS02U-S could be the right fit. Priced at approximately £75 (about $90 USD), it offers a solid balance between affordability and functionality. Key features include:

Power: 800 watts, slightly higher than the other models in this price range, allowing for faster heating times.

Capacity: 20 liters, providing enough room to accommodate most standard dinner plates.

Eco Mode: A unique power-saving feature that reduces energy usage when the microwave is not in operation.

With a full touch control panel and 11 cooking power levels, this Sharp model brings a bit more versatility to the budget segment. It includes eight preset functions, covering popular items like popcorn, pizza, and frozen vegetables. For users seeking eco-friendly options in their kitchen, this microwave’s Eco Mode offers an added benefit by lowering standby power consumption​

.Toshiba EM925A5A-BS: Compact and Reliable in the U.S.

Available for under $100 in the U.S., the Toshiba EM925A5A-BS is a 900-watt model that excels in delivering convenience without unnecessary complexity. Highlights include:

Power: 900 watts, providing quick cooking and reheating times.

Capacity: 0.9 cubic feet, making it suitable for small to medium kitchens where counter space is at a premium.

Preset Features: Includes popular presets like “Popcorn” and “Potato” to simplify everyday use.

The Toshiba EM925A5A-BS comes with a unique mute option, allowing users to disable the typical beeping sound that microwaves make—ideal for those in shared spaces or who enjoy late-night snacks​.

This model also features a durable stainless steel exterior and a digital control panel, which adds a touch of modern design to any kitchen setup.

Hisense 700W 20L Solo Microwave: Sleek and Simple

Another reliable choice is the Hisense 700W 20L Solo Microwave, which costs around £59.99 ($75 USD). Designed to be both compact and easy to use, it’s ideal for students, small families, or anyone seeking a minimalist look in their kitchen. Key features include:

Power: 700 watts, well-suited for basic heating and defrosting.

Capacity: 20 liters, providing enough space for everyday meals.

Auto-Cook Functions: Nine preset menus, which remove much of the guesswork from cooking.

This Hisense model is designed with simplicity in mind. Its wipe-clean interior helps with easy maintenance, and the automatic defrost function is particularly handy for those who frequently prepare frozen meals​

THE STANDARD

. At a reasonable price, the Hisense 700W delivers dependable performance without overwhelming users with additional settings or features.

Considerations for Buying a Budget Microwave

When purchasing a budget microwave, it’s essential to consider both your primary cooking needs and the kitchen space available. Here are some tips to help make the best choice:

Wattage: Generally, microwaves in the 700-900 watt range are suitable for reheating and basic cooking. Higher wattage typically means faster cooking but can also drive up costs.

Capacity: Budget microwaves often come in compact sizes, usually between 17-20 liters. While this size can handle most meals, families with larger portion needs may want to consider slightly larger models.

Features: Although budget models often skip advanced settings, some useful features can enhance convenience, such as preset cooking programs, auto-defrost, and turntables for even cooking.

Control Type: Simple dials are often easier to use and more durable, while digital controls offer more precise programming but may increase the price slightly.

Aesthetics and Design: While functionality should be the priority, consider how the microwave will fit into your kitchen’s aesthetic. Options like stainless steel finishes or compact, retro designs can add a stylish element without a large price increase.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a student looking to heat up meals in a dorm or a family in need of a dependable kitchen helper, these budget-friendly microwaves offer solid performance for everyday needs.

Options like the Cookworks 700W and Daewoo KOR6L15 focus on simplicity and affordability, while models like the Sharp YC-MS02U-S and Toshiba EM925A5A-BS introduce useful features like eco modes and mute functions.

When choosing a microwave on a budget, prioritize features that align with your lifestyle—whether that’s a compact design, low energy usage, or essential pre-set cooking options. Each of these models proves that affordable microwaves can still offer quality and reliability without breaking the bank.