6 Best Microwaves Under $150 in 2026
Six countertop microwaves compared on capacity, wattage, sensor cooking, presets and footprint, so you can choose the right size for your kitchen.
A countertop microwave looks like a simple appliance until you try to fit a dinner plate in a small one or wait for leftovers in a weak one. The cavity size, the wattage and the controls decide how it feels day to day, and a larger budget ceiling opens the door to bigger cavities, higher output and smarter sensors.
The six models here run from 0.7 to 1.2 cubic feet and from 700 to 1000 watts. We evaluated listing specs and common buyer feedback patterns, and we compare the dimensions that actually decide the purchase: turntable diameter, power output versus input draw, preset menus and extras such as a mute option or child lock.
Matching the microwave to your counter and your cooking habits matters more than chasing the highest number. The sections below show which model suits a family kitchen, a studio apartment or a dorm-style shelf.
6 Criteria to Look For Before Buying a Microwaves Under $150
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
Cavity size and turntable
Capacity decides what fits, and turntable diameter is the number to check for dinner plates. A 12.4-inch turntable handles standard plates, while 10 inches can be tight. The Toshiba 1.2 and BLACK+DECKER 1.1 use 12.4-inch turntables, and the BLACK+DECKER 0.9 and Toshiba 0.9 use 10.6-inch ones. Measure your tallest dish too.
Output wattage and speed
Higher wattage cooks faster and more evenly, especially for frozen meals. Around 1000W is the comfortable range for a family, while 700W suits light reheating. The Toshiba 1.2 and BLACK+DECKER 1.1 deliver 1000W, the 0.9 cu.ft. models deliver 900W, and the Farberware delivers 700W.
Input draw and your circuit
Input power is higher than output and matters for shared circuits. A 1600W unit can trip a breaker if a toaster or kettle runs on the same line. The Toshiba 1.2 and BLACK+DECKER 1.1 list 1600W input, while the Toshiba 0.9 lists 1400W. Check your kitchen wiring.
Presets, sensors and memory
Presets and sensors reduce guesswork for reheating. A humidity sensor, as on the Toshiba 1.2, adjusts time automatically, and a memory button, as on the Chefman, saves your favorite. Fixed presets like the BLACK+DECKER's dinner plate button are simple but less adaptive.
Controls, safety and noise
A child safety lock and a mute option make a microwave easier to live with in a shared home. Two-step locks are harder for children to defeat. The Toshiba 0.9 has a two-step lock, and the Toshiba 1.2, Toshiba 0.9 and Chefman all list a mute function.
Counter footprint
A microwave needs ventilation space and counter depth. Measure the spot, including clearance. The Toshiba 1.2 is 20.6 by 14.6 by 11.8 inches, while the Toshiba 0.9 is 18.7 by 13.3 by 10.7 inches. Smaller cavities like the Farberware 0.7 save the most space.
6 Best Microwaves Under $150 in 2026
TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu.Ft. 1000W Countertop Microwave with Sensor
About this pick
The Toshiba 1.2 cubic foot model is the biggest and strongest microwave in this lineup, with 1000W output on 1600W of input power. A smart humidity sensor adjusts cooking time and power automatically, and the cavity holds a 12.4-inch glass turntable. It is offered in stainless steel and black finishes, with menu presets and a mute function.
The size is the draw. A 12.4-inch turntable fits a full dinner plate or a large casserole dish without scraping, which smaller models cannot always do. The sensor reduces guesswork on reheating, and 1000W cuts the time for frozen meals. The tradeoff is the footprint, at 20.6 by 14.6 inches, which needs a real counter or a dedicated shelf.
Compared with the Toshiba 0.9 at 900W, it adds capacity and power but draws 1600W instead of 1400W, which is worth checking against your circuit. Compared with the Farberware at 0.7 cubic feet, it is much larger and heavier on counter space. It suits families and anyone who cooks bigger portions, and it is the one to choose if you regularly warm casserole dishes, large bowls or tall containers that tend to catch on smaller turntables.
Best for: Family kitchens that need space for large plates and quick, even heating.
Check price on AmazonSpecs
- Capacity: 1.2 cu.ft.
- Output: 1000W (1600W input)
- Turntable: 12.4-inch glass
- Size (WxDxH): 20.6 x 14.6 x 11.8 in
Pros
- +1.2 cu.ft. cavity fits large plates easily
- +1000W output speeds up frozen meals
- +Humidity sensor adjusts time and power
- +Mute function silences the beeps
Cons
- −Biggest footprint of the six on the counter
- −Draws 1600W, so check your circuit load
- −Sensor cooking takes some learning
BLACK+DECKER 1.1 Cu.Ft. 1000W Countertop Microwave
About this pick
The BLACK+DECKER 1.1 cubic foot microwave delivers 1000W output with 10 power settings, a push-button door and a removable 12.4-inch glass turntable. It has presets for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate, along with a clock, kitchen timer, 30-second express cooking and a large LED display. A child safety lock and interior light are included.
It hits a sweet spot between size and cost of counter space. You get nearly the same turntable and power as the Toshiba 1.2, but with slightly less interior volume and the familiar presets of a known appliance brand. The tradeoff is that it has no humidity sensor, so reheating uses fixed presets or manual time.
Compared with the BLACK+DECKER 0.9, it adds 100W and a bigger plate. Compared with the Chefman 0.9, it offers more power and presets that include a dinner plate setting. It is a solid all-rounder for households that want power without the very largest cabinet.
Best for: Households that want 1000W and plate-friendly size in a straightforward design.
Check price on AmazonSpecs
- Capacity: 1.1 cu.ft.
- Output: 1000W (1600W input)
- Power levels: 10
- Turntable: 12.4-inch glass, removable
Pros
- +1000W output with 10 power settings
- +12.4-inch turntable removes for cleaning
- +Dinner plate preset simplifies reheating
- +Push-button door is easy to open
Cons
- −No humidity sensor for automatic cooking
- −Draws 1600W of input power from the wall
- −Takes more counter space than compact models
BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu.Ft. 900W Countertop Microwave
About this pick
The BLACK+DECKER 0.9 cubic foot model has 900W output, 10 power settings and a 10.6-inch removable glass turntable. Six pre-programmed buttons cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate, and the unit adds a clock, a kitchen timer and 30-second express cooking. A push-button door, interior light, large LED display and child safety lock round out the controls.
The mid-size cavity is a practical compromise. It fits most plates and mugs, takes up less counter space than the 1.2 cubic foot model, and keeps an interior light that makes it easy to check food. It lacks a humidity sensor, so it works best when you use the presets or set time by hand.
Compared with the Toshiba 0.9, it has fewer power levels but a more specific set of food presets. Compared with the Farberware at 700W, it offers more output and a bigger turntable. It is a good fit for couples and small households that want a familiar, easy-to-read microwave.
Best for: Couples and small households that want simple presets and a clear display.
Check price on AmazonSpecs
- Capacity: 0.9 cu.ft.
- Output: 900W
- Power levels: 10
- Turntable: 10.6-inch glass, removable
Pros
- +Six food presets include a dinner plate button
- +10.6-inch turntable is fully removable
- +Interior light shows food without opening
- +Child safety lock is built into the controls
Cons
- −Smaller than the 1.1 and 1.2 cu.ft. models
- −No sensor cooking mode is listed
- −900W is slower than the 1000W picks
TOSHIBA 0.9 Cu.Ft. 900W Microwave, Black Stainless
About this pick
The Toshiba 0.9 cubic foot microwave is a compact unit with 900W output on 1400W input, a 10.6-inch glass turntable and external dimensions of 18.7 by 13.3 by 10.7 inches. It offers six auto menus for popcorn, pizza, potato and more, a mute function, LED lighting and a two-step child lock, which requires a specific sequence rather than a single button press. Data from earlier listings also credits it with 11 power levels.
The quiet operation and smaller input draw are the standout pieces. A 1400W input is gentler on a shared circuit than the 1600W units, and the mute function silences beeps for late-night or shared spaces. The tradeoff is that there are fewer food-specific presets than on the BLACK+DECKER models.
Compared with the Toshiba 1.2, it has less capacity and no humidity sensor on the listing we reviewed. Compared with the Chefman 0.9, it offers a lower input draw and a two-step lock. It suits apartments, bedrooms and offices.
Best for: Small kitchens and shared spaces where quiet operation and a modest footprint matter.
Check price on AmazonSpecs
- Capacity: 0.9 cu.ft.
- Output: 900W (1400W input)
- Turntable: 10.6-inch glass
- Size (WxDxH): 18.7 x 13.3 x 10.7 in
Pros
- +Mute function silences all button beeps
- +Two-step child lock needs a set sequence
- +1400W input draws less than 1600W models
- +Compact dimensions fit tight counters
Cons
- −Fewer presets than the BLACK+DECKER models
- −0.9 cu.ft. limits large dish sizes
- −Earlier power level data is unconfirmed here
Chefman 0.9 Cu.Ft. 900W Microwave with Eco Mode
About this pick
The Chefman 0.9 cubic foot microwave provides 900W with 10 power levels, six presets for popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes and leftovers, one-touch express cooking and a digital interface. It adds an eco mode, a mute button, a child safety lock and a memory function that stores a frequent setting for one-touch recall. The finish is basic black.
The memory function is the practical extra. If you reheat the same mug or bowl every morning, recalling the setting in one press saves repeated entry. Eco mode and mute are thoughtful for shared homes. The tradeoff is the plainer finish and the lack of a humidity sensor.
Compared with the BLACK+DECKER 0.9, it has memory and eco mode but a less specific dinner plate button. Compared with the Farberware at 700W, it offers 200W more power in a larger cavity. It is a good fit for people who repeat the same routines every day.
Best for: Daily routine users who reheat the same items and want one-touch recall.
Check price on AmazonSpecs
- Capacity: 0.9 cu.ft.
- Output: 900W
- Presets: 6, plus express cook
- Extras: Eco mode, mute, memory
Pros
- +Memory function recalls a favorite setting
- +Eco mode and mute suit shared homes
- +Six presets cover common reheating tasks
- +Child safety lock is part of the package
Cons
- −Basic black finish only on this listing
- −No humidity sensor is listed for this model
- −Digital-only controls with no dial
Farberware 0.7 Cu.Ft. 700W Countertop Microwave
About this pick
The Farberware is the smallest microwave in this group at 0.7 cubic feet and 700W. It offers 10 power levels, multi-stage cooking that chains two power settings in a single run, six one-touch options and a display that also works as a clock and kitchen timer. It includes auto cook settings and defrost.
Multi-stage cooking is the real feature. You can defrost then cook, or run high then low, without standing there to change settings. The limits are obvious: 700W takes longer than the 900W and 1000W units, and the small cavity may not fit wide plates or tall containers.
It makes sense in a dorm, an office, a studio or a tight shelf. Compared with the Chefman 0.9, it has less power and fewer extras like memory or eco mode. Compared with the Toshiba 1.2, it uses much less counter space and electricity but cannot handle large dishes. Buy it when footprint outranks speed, and expect to add a minute or two to times written for stronger microwaves. Stir or rotate food halfway through to even out cold spots, which small cavities and lower wattage make more likely.
Best for: Tight spaces where a small footprint and multi-stage cooking matter most.
Check price on AmazonSpecs
- Capacity: 0.7 cu.ft.
- Output: 700W
- Power levels: 10
- Special: Multi-stage cooking
Pros
- +Multi-stage cooking chains two power settings
- +Small cavity saves counter space
- +Display doubles as a clock and timer
- +Ten power levels give fine control
Cons
- −700W cooks slower than the larger models
- −Small cavity struggles with wide plates
- −Fewer food presets than the BLACK+DECKER picks
How We Evaluated These Microwaves Under $150
Each pick was assessed across 5 criteria weighted for real-world use.
Capacity and dish fit
We compared cavity volume and turntable diameter. The Toshiba 1.2 and BLACK+DECKER 1.1 lead with 12.4-inch turntables, the 0.9 cu.ft. models use 10.6-inch ones, and the Farberware is the smallest at 0.7 cu.ft.
Power and electrical load
We reviewed output and input wattage. The Toshiba 1.2 and BLACK+DECKER 1.1 lead with 1000W output at 1600W input, the 900W models sit in the middle, and the Farberware at 700W is the gentlest on a circuit.
Cooking intelligence
We looked at sensors, presets and memory. The Toshiba 1.2 has a smart humidity sensor, the BLACK+DECKER models have food-specific presets, the Chefman adds memory and eco mode, and the Farberware offers multi-stage cooking.
Everyday usability
We considered displays, door design, child locks and mute options. The BLACK+DECKER models have push-button doors and interior lights, the Toshiba models offer mute and two-step locks on the 0.9, and the Chefman has a child lock and mute.
Lineup positioning
The Toshiba 1.2 is the capacity pick, the BLACK+DECKER 1.1 is the mid-size power pick, the BLACK+DECKER 0.9 is the preset pick, the Toshiba 0.9 is the quiet compact pick, the Chefman is the routine pick and the Farberware is the small-space pick.
How to Choose the Right Microwaves Under $150
By Kitchen Size and Household
Start with the space and the number of people you cook for.
| Situation | Best pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Family of four or more | TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu.Ft. Microwave | 1.2 cu.ft., 1000W and a 12.4-inch turntable |
| Couple with moderate cooking | BLACK+DECKER 1.1 Cu.Ft. Microwave | 1000W with a 12.4-inch turntable |
| Small household with simple presets | BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu.Ft. Microwave | Six presets including dinner plate |
| Apartment with shared circuits | TOSHIBA 0.9 Cu.Ft. Microwave | 1400W input and mute function |
| Dorm, office or studio | Farberware 0.7 Cu.Ft. Microwave | Smallest footprint at 0.7 cu.ft. |
Measure your counter depth and the tallest dish you plan to use.
By Budget
Within this cap, the tiers separate by capacity and power.
| Tier | Pick | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | Farberware 0.7 Cu.Ft. Microwave | A compact 700W unit with multi-stage cooking |
| Entry to mid | Chefman 0.9 Cu.Ft. Microwave | 900W with memory and eco mode |
| Mid | BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu.Ft. Microwave | Six presets and an interior light |
| Upper | BLACK+DECKER 1.1 Cu.Ft. Microwave | 1000W and a larger turntable |
| Top of cap | TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu.Ft. Microwave | Largest cavity with a humidity sensor |
Moving up a tier adds capacity and speed, not just features.
Sensor Cooking vs Fixed Presets
Two approaches to automatic cooking suit different habits.
Sensor cooking
The Toshiba 1.2 measures humidity to adjust time and power as food heats. It tends to reduce overcooking and guesswork on leftovers. Pick this side if you reheat varied foods and want hands-off results.
Fixed presets
The BLACK+DECKER models, Chefman and Farberware use preset buttons for common foods. They are simple and predictable but not adaptive. Pick this side if you repeat the same items and want one-touch ease.
The Chefman's memory button gives repeat users a middle path.
By Electrical Setup
Input draw matters more than many buyers realize.
| Setup | Pick | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Dedicated 15 to 20 amp circuit | TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu.Ft. Microwave | 1600W input is fine on its own line |
| Shared kitchen circuit | TOSHIBA 0.9 Cu.Ft. Microwave | 1400W input is lower |
| Older wiring or small apartments | Farberware 0.7 Cu.Ft. Microwave | 700W output draws the least |
| Standard modern kitchen | BLACK+DECKER 1.1 Cu.Ft. Microwave | 1000W output with 1600W input |
Avoid running a toaster or kettle on the same circuit while the microwave is on.
For Quiet Homes Specifically
Beeps and clicks can bother a household at night.
Look for
A mute or sound-off option, soft-touch controls and an easy-to-find cancel button. Eco mode can also reduce standby draw.
In this comparison
The Toshiba 1.2 and Toshiba 0.9 list a mute function, and the Chefman lists mute and eco mode. The BLACK+DECKER and Farberware listings do not highlight a mute feature.
Test the mute setting after unboxing to confirm it silences every beep.
When to Spend More
A bigger budget changes cooking features, not just size.
| Spend more if | Save if |
|---|---|
| You want convection or air-fry functions that none of these offer | Reheating and defrosting is all you do |
| You want a built-in or over-the-range design | A countertop unit like the Toshiba 1.2 fits your kitchen |
| You want inverter technology for even low-power cooking | Ten power levels on the BLACK+DECKER cover your needs |
| You want a stainless exterior with premium finish | A basic finish such as the Chefman's is acceptable |
For plain reheating, any model here will do the job well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which size should I choose?
Choose by the biggest plate or dish you use, then check that the door still opens fully with it inside. A 12.4-inch turntable on the Toshiba 1.2 or BLACK+DECKER 1.1 handles full dinner plates, while the 0.9 cu.ft. models use 10.6-inch turntables. The Farberware at 0.7 cu.ft. is best for mugs and small bowls.
Does higher wattage matter?
Yes, higher output cooks faster and more evenly. At 1000W the Toshiba 1.2 and BLACK+DECKER 1.1 heat frozen meals quicker than the 700W Farberware. Higher output also draws more input power, so consider your circuit. In everyday use the gap shows up most with frozen dinners and dense leftovers, which come out hotter in the middle at 1000W and often need an extra stir at 700W.
What is the difference between output and input watts?
Output watts describe cooking power, and input watts describe what the unit draws from the wall. The Toshiba 1.2 lists 1000W output on 1600W input. Input matters when other appliances share the same circuit.
Is a sensor worth having?
A sensor like the Toshiba 1.2's humidity sensor adjusts time and power as food heats, which helps with leftovers. It does not replace judgment for unusual dishes. If you usually reheat the same items, presets or a memory button are enough.
Are these safe around children?
Several include child safety locks, and the Toshiba 0.9 uses a two-step lock that requires a sequence. A lock is a deterrent, not a substitute for supervision. Keep the microwave at a sensible height, away from the edge of the counter, and teach children that the door should never be opened while food is cooking. Check the manual for the exact lock sequence on your model, because the steps differ between makers and are easy to forget.
How do I clean the turntable and cavity?
Remove the glass turntable and wash it with warm soapy water. Wipe the interior with a damp cloth, and steam a bowl of water with lemon to loosen stuck splatter. The BLACK+DECKER turntables are fully removable for easy cleaning.
Can I use metal or foil in these microwaves?
Generally no, because metal can cause arcing. Use microwave-safe glass or ceramic, and follow the manual. If you are unsure about a dish, check its labeling or test it empty alongside a cup of water only if the manual allows.
Bottom Line
best overall: TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu.Ft. 1000W Countertop Microwave with Sensor - best large capacity pick in this roundup.
See the full rankings above for all picks with pros, cons, and best-for summaries.
Browse on Amazon
All Prime-eligible options with current pricing.
Shop on Amazon →