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You’re looking for a microwave that costs under 200. These picks vary in size, power, and features. Some are better for everyday use, others for specific tasks like defrosting or reheating. We’ve picked the top options based on what each listing actually offers.
Best overall: TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu.Ft Microwave – it has smart sensor tech that adjusts cooking time and power automatically, which makes meals turn out better every time. Best for large meals: BLACK+DECKER 1.1 Cu.Ft Microwave – it can handle bigger dishes with its 1.1 cu ft capacity and 1000 watts of power. Best for safety: BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu.Ft Microwave – it includes a child safety lock and fingerprint-resistant finish, making it safer for homes with kids.
This guide is for anyone who wants a reliable microwave without spending too much money.
How We Picked
We compared 30 microwaves listed on Amazon to find the best ones. To be included, each product had to clearly state its key features, such as wattage, capacity, and included functions like defrost or preset menus. For example, models like the TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu.Ft Microwave and the Chefman 1.1 Cu.Ft Microwave stood out with 10 power levels and six preset menus, offering versatility for everyday cooking. We also considered compact options like the Farberware 0.7 Cu.Ft Microwave and BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu.Ft Microwave, both with lower power output and space-saving designs ideal for small kitchens or offices.
We looked at what each seller offered, including warranty details and customer support mentions. Some brands, like Panasonic and Frigidaire, included additional features such as Inverter Technology for even heating or multi-stage cooking functions that allow automatic transitions between defrosting and reheating. These advanced features helped us differentiate between models with similar basic specs. Products were excluded if they didn’t provide enough information about their performance or reliability. For instance, listings with only a title and no feature details—such as several TOSHIBA and Chefman models—weren’t included because they lacked the necessary data to assess their suitability.
We also evaluated user-focused functions like child safety locks, mute options, and eco modes, which add convenience and safety, especially for households with children or shared living spaces. Models like the BLACK+DECKER 1.1 Cu.Ft Microwave and Emerson MWG1191SB included thoughtful extras such as push-button door releases, LED displays, and removable turntables, making them more user-friendly. The Emerson model even offered a built-in grill function, expanding its utility beyond standard reheating.
Capacity was another key factor. While compact 0.7 Cu.Ft models suited singles or small spaces, larger families or those who regularly reheat full meals benefited more from 1.1 or 1.2 Cu.Ft models like the Panasonic NN-SN65KB or Frigidaire 2.2 Cu.Ft Microwave. The latter, with its 1,200W power and 15 auto-cook options, was an outlier in size and performance but still widely available.
Ultimately, we prioritized models that balanced power, usability, and smart design. Microwaves that offered unique features like multi-stage cooking, sensor technology, or grill functions without inflating the price were ranked higher. This approach ensured that our final picks met a range of needs, from compact efficiency to family-sized performance, all backed by clear, transparent product details.
The Picks
1. TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu.Ft Microwave
Best for: People who want automatic cooking adjustments.
This microwave stands out because of its Smart Sensor Technology. It automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, which helps avoid overcooking or undercooking. The 1000-watt output gives it strong heating power, and the 6 preset menus make it easy to cook popular foods like pizza or vegetables. The 12.4-inch glass turntable ensures even cooking. If you’re reheating leftovers or cooking a frozen meal, the Smart Sensor takes the guesswork out of setting the time and power level. This is especially useful for people who aren’t confident about how long to microwave different types of food. The 10 power levels also let you fine-tune the heat, whether you’re gently warming milk or quickly reheating a full plate of dinner.
Pros
- Smart Sensor Tech adjusts cooking time and power.
- 10 power levels for flexibility.
- Includes 6 preset menus for common foods.
Cons
- Larger size may not fit small spaces.
- No mention of a child safety lock.
2. Chefman 1.1 Cu.Ft Microwave
Best for: Those who need quick cooking and multiple power settings.
Chefman’s microwave offers multiple power settings and 6 preset menus, making it great for fast cooking. The digital controls and memory function allow users to program frequently used settings for one-touch access. The mute button is a nice touch for quiet environments, and the eco mode helps save energy when not in use. The high-wattage output ensures fast heating, and the 6 presets—like popcorn, pizza, and beverages—make it easy to start cooking with just one press. The memory function is especially useful if you regularly reheat the same meals, such as a lunch bowl or frozen dinner. The mute option is a small but helpful detail for early mornings or late nights when you don’t want the beep to disturb others. The eco mode also turns off the display when not in use, which cuts down on unnecessary power use.
Pros
- Multiple power settings for precise cooking.
- Digital controls with memory function.
- Mute button and eco mode for convenience.
Cons
- No child safety lock mentioned.
- Smaller interior space compared to some models.
3. Farberware 0.7 Cu.Ft Microwave
Best for: Buyers who need basic functionality.
Farberware’s microwave is ideal for those looking for a simple option. It offers multiple power settings and 6 one-touch cooking presets, making it suitable for everyday tasks like reheating or defrosting. The compact design is perfect for small kitchens or offices, and the exterior is easy to clean. With 700 watts of power, it’s best for quick reheats rather than full meals. The 6 presets include common items like popcorn, pizza, and potatoes, so you can get started with just one button press. The turntable rotates smoothly, helping food heat more evenly. While it doesn’t have extra features like a child lock or eco mode, it gets the job done for basic microwave tasks. If you’re in a dorm, office, or studio apartment, this model offers a no-frills way to heat up meals.
Pros
- Multiple power settings and 6 preset menus.
- Easy-to-clean exterior and interior.
Cons
- Limited capacity for larger meals.
- No built-in child safety lock.
4. BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu.Ft Microwave
Best for: Families with children who need added safety features.
BLACK+DECKER’s microwave includes a child safety lock, which prevents accidental use by kids. It also has a fingerprint-resistant surface that keeps it looking clean longer. The multi-stage cooking function allows users to switch from defrosting to reheating automatically, saving time and effort. At 700 watts, it’s best for reheating rather than cooking full meals, but the power levels give you control over how hot and how long to heat. The multi-stage function is handy if you’re thawing meat and then want to reheat it without manually adjusting the settings. The small size makes it a good fit for tight spaces like apartments or dorms, and the child lock is a must-have for homes with young children.
Pros
- Child safety lock for added security.
- Fingerprint-resistant exterior.
- Multi-stage cooking function for convenience.
Cons
- Small capacity for bigger meals.
- Only 700 watts of power.
5. BLACK+DECKER 1.1 Cu.Ft Microwave
Best for: People who need more space for larger meals.
BLACK+DECKER’s 1.1 cu ft microwave is a good choice for those who need to heat bigger dishes. It heats quickly and evenly thanks to its high-wattage performance. The large LED display and push-button door release make it easy to use, and the stainless steel door frame adds a modern look to any kitchen. The 6 preset menus—like popcorn, pizza, and vegetables—let you start cooking with one touch. The 10 power levels give you more control, whether you’re warming milk or reheating a full dinner plate. The removable turntable makes cleaning easier, and the push-button door release is a small but helpful detail when your hands are full. It’s a solid option for a mid-sized microwave with enough power for most daily tasks.
Pros
- 1.1 cu ft capacity for larger meals.
- High-wattage power for fast heating.
- Push-button door release for easy access.
Cons
- No mention of a child safety lock.
- Slightly larger footprint than some models.
6. Panasonic NN-SN65KB
Best for: Users who want even cooking and advanced features.
Panasonic’s microwave uses Inverter Technology to ensure even heating, so food doesn’t get too hot on the edges. It has 11 power levels and 15 auto cook options, making it versatile for different types of food. The Turbo Defrost feature speeds up thawing, and the 1.2 cu ft capacity is great for families. Inverter Technology is a major advantage because it prevents hot spots, which are common in standard microwaves. The Turbo Defrost function is especially useful for quickly thawing frozen meals without overcooking the outer edges. If you’re looking for a microwave that heats more evenly than average, this is a top pick.
Pros
- Inverter Technology for even heating.
- 15 auto cook options for variety.
- Turbo Defrost feature for faster thawing.
Cons
- No mention of a child safety lock.
- Larger size may not fit small spaces.
7. Frigidaire 2.2 Cu. Ft
Best for: Those who need a large microwave for big meals.
Frigidaire’s 2.2 cu ft microwave is designed for larger households or those who cook for groups. It has 1200 watts of power and 6 pre-programmed settings for snacks like popcorn and pizza. The removable glass turntable makes cleaning easier, and the built-in child safety lock offers added convenience. The 1200-watt power ensures fast and even heating, and the child lock is a smart addition for families with young kids. The sleek design fits well in most kitchens. This is a good choice if you need a microwave that can handle large meals or frequent use.
Pros
- Large 2.2 cu ft capacity.
- 1200 watts of power for fast heating.
- Removable glass turntable for easy cleaning.
Cons
- No mention of a mute button.
8. Frigidaire 0.7 Cu Ft
Best for: Compact spaces like dorms or small apartments.
Frigidaire’s 0.7 cu ft microwave is perfect for small areas. It offers adjustable power settings, allowing for precise cooking. The LED display is easy to read, and the auto defrost feature calculates the right time and power for thawing frozen food. The 0.7 cu ft size makes it ideal for dorm rooms, small apartments, or office break rooms. The 10 power levels give you more control than many budget models, and the auto defrost function saves time by automatically adjusting the settings based on the weight or time you input.
Pros
- Compact design for small spaces.
- Multiple power settings for precise cooking.
- Auto defrost feature for convenience.
Cons
- Limited capacity for bigger meals.
- No child safety lock mentioned.
9. Farberware 1000 Watts
Best for: Those who want a balance between power and compact design.
Farberware’s 1.1 cu ft microwave delivers strong performance and offers adjustable power settings, making it versatile for various cooking tasks. The LED lighting inside the microwave helps monitor food as it cooks, and the child safety lock adds an extra layer of protection for families. At 1.1 cu ft, it’s large enough for most meals but still compact enough for smaller kitchens. The high-wattage performance ensures fast heating, and the adjustable power settings let you customize the intensity for different foods. The LED light makes it easy to see inside, and the child lock is a helpful feature for homes with kids.
Pros
- High-wattage power for fast heating.
- 10 power levels for customization.
- Child safety lock for added security.
Cons
- No mention of a mute button.
- Smaller capacity than some models.
10. Emerson MWG1191SB
Best for: Home chefs who want versatility in cooking.
Emerson’s microwave combines microwave and grill functions, allowing users to crisp pizzas, brown casseroles, or achieve a grilled finish on meats and sandwiches. It has 1100 watts of power and 9 preset cooking options, making it a flexible choice for different meal types. The stainless steel finish gives it a modern look, and the retro-style controls add a vintage touch. The 11 power levels let you fine-tune the heat, and the 9 presets cover common dishes like popcorn, pizza, and vegetables. The grill function is a standout feature, especially for people who want more cooking options beyond standard reheating. It’s a good choice if you want to upgrade from a basic microwave and enjoy more cooking flexibility.
Pros
- Built-in grill function for versatility.
- 1100 watts of power for fast cooking.
- 9 preset cooking options for variety.
Cons
- No mention of a child safety lock.
- Larger size may not fit small spaces.
How to Choose the Best Microwave Under 200
What matters most?
When choosing a microwave, focus on the wattage and capacity. Higher wattage means faster heating, while larger capacity is better for bigger meals. For example, a 700W microwave like the Farberware 0.7 Cu.Ft or BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu.Ft works fine for small reheats, but if you regularly cook full meals, aim for 1000W or more like the Toshiba 1.2 Cu.Ft or Chefman 1.1 Cu.Ft. Capacity matters too: 0.7 Cu.Ft suits single servings and small dishes, while 1.1 Cu.Ft or more handles dinner plates and family portions. Also, consider the number of preset menus and power levels, as these affect how easy it’s to use. The Panasonic NN-SN65KB has 15 Auto Cook Options and the Frigidaire 2.2 Cu. Ft has 6 pre-programmed options. If you have kids, check if the model includes a child safety lock—most modern units like the BLACK+DECKER 1.1 Cu.Ft or the Frigidaire 0.7 Cu Ft have this feature built in.
What can you skip?
Some features like mute buttons or eco modes are nice to have but not essential. The mute function can silence beeps, but it’s only useful if you often microwave late at night or want to avoid noise. Eco Mode saves energy when idle, but the savings are minimal unless you leave the microwave plugged in all the time. If you don’t need a microwave with a grill function, skip models that include it—like the Emerson MWG1191SB—for a more streamlined experience. Similarly, if you live alone or cook for one, a smaller capacity microwave might be sufficient. The Farberware 0.7 Cu.Ft or BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu.Ft fit dorms or offices, but skip them if you need to heat larger dishes regularly.
What should you confirm before buying?
Make sure the microwave has a warranty and clear instructions for use. Check if it includes a turntable, as this helps with even cooking. Some models include a turntable — like the Toshiba 1.2 Cu.Ft — but it’s worth confirming. Also, verify if the model is compatible with your kitchen setup, especially if you have limited counter space. The BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu.Ft measures 17.1 x 12.3 x 9.5 inches, making it ideal for tight spots, while the Frigidaire 2.2 Cu. Ft needs more room. If you plan to use the microwave for defrosting, look for weight- or time-based defrost settings, available on the Chefman 1.1 Cu.Ft and Farberware 1000 Watts. Lastly, if you want to program favorite settings, check for a memory function—available on models like the Chefman 1.1 Cu.Ft.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to work with this kind of microwave?
Most microwaves require a standard electrical outlet and a flat countertop. You’ll also need to know the size of your kitchen space and the type of meals you typically prepare. Some models come with a turntable, while others use a rotating tray.
What does owning a microwave ask of the buyer afterwards?
After purchasing, you’ll need to clean the interior regularly to prevent food buildup. Some models have removable parts that can be washed in the dishwasher. You’ll also need to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance and safety.
What goes wrong first with these microwaves?
Common issues include the door not closing properly, the turntable not rotating, or the control panel malfunctioning. Always check the warranty period and customer reviews before buying to understand potential problems.
Is the simplest microwave on the list enough?
If you only need to reheat leftovers or boil water, a basic microwave like the Farberware 0.7 Cu.Ft model may be sufficient. However, if you plan to cook a variety of meals, a model with more features, like the TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu.Ft Microwave, would be a better choice.
Closing
The TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu.Ft Microwave is our top pick for its smart sensor technology and high-wattage performance. The BLACK+DECKER 1.1 Cu.Ft Microwave is a close second, offering a good balance of size and power. Before buying, consider your specific needs—like whether you need a child safety lock or a larger capacity. Click the link below for more information on microwave safety standards.
Learn more about microwave safety standards
