Finding the right microwave does not require spending hundreds of dollars. The best microwave ovens under $500 balance useful cooking power, practical capacity, intuitive controls, and a countertop-friendly footprint.
This roundup compares 10 options ranging from compact 700-watt models to feature-rich combination ovens, so you can choose the right fit for reheating, defrosting, cooking, or limited kitchen space.
Best 10 Microwave Ovens Under 500 Picks for 2026
Best Value
BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu. Ft. Microwave
- 900 watts with 10 power levels
- Six preset cooking programs
- Child lock and 30-second express cooking
Best For: Budget-conscious everyday countertop cooking
Quietest Pick
Breville Compact Wave Soft Close Microwave
- 80% quieter soft-close door design
- 900 watts with 25L capacity
- One-touch reheat, defrost, popcorn, and beverage settings
Best For: Noise-conscious users with limited counter space
Most Adjustable
- 900 watts with 11 power levels
- Six preset menus for common foods
- Defrost by weight or time with one-touch start
Best For: Compact kitchens needing flexible cooking control
Best Features
Chefman 0.9 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave
- 900 watts with 10 power levels
- Six presets plus memory function
- Mute button, Eco Mode, and child lock
Best For: Feature-focused everyday countertop use
Most Versatile
- Microwave, air fryer, convection oven, and grill
- 19 smart presets and inverter power smoothing
- Soft-close door with quieter operation
Best For: Home cooks seeking one countertop appliance for multiple cooking methods
Best Budget Basic
COMFEE' 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave
- Compact 0.7-cubic-foot, 700-watt design
- One-touch cooking and two defrost settings
- Mute function, child lock, and ECO mode
Best For: Small kitchens, dorm rooms, offices, and basic reheating
Best Smart Microwave
- Sensor iQ adjusts cooking and reheating power
- 15 smart presets with inverter power smoothing
- Quiet soft-close door and mute function
Best For: Precise, quieter everyday reheating and microwave cooking
Best Compact Value
- 700 watts with 10 power levels
- Six presets and +30-second control
- Mute button and child safety lock
Best For: Apartments, dorms, and compact kitchens
Best Higher-Power Pick
- 900 watts with 11 power levels
- Six auto menus and one-touch start
- 10.6-inch turntable with defrost options
Best For: Apartment kitchens needing more power and capacity
Best Simple Small-Space Option
0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave
- 700 watts with 10 power levels
- Six one-touch cooking options
- LED lighting and easy-clean interior
Best For: Dorms, apartments, and everyday reheating
Best Value – BLACK+DECKER 0.9 Cu. Ft. Microwave
If you’re comparing microwave ovens under 500, the BLACK+DECKER countertop model offers practical everyday performance in a compact 0.9-cubic-foot design. Its 900 watts, 10 power settings, preset cooking buttons, and easy-to-read controls cover common reheating and cooking tasks.
Best For: Budget-conscious households, apartments, and dorm rooms needing straightforward daily cooking functions.
Pros:
- Six preset buttons cover popcorn, potato, pizza, vegetables, beverages, and dinner plates.
- Offers 900 watts, 10 power levels, quick defrost, and 30-second express cooking.
- Includes a child safety lock, interior light, removable glass turntable, and push-button door release.
Cons:
- The 0.9-cubic-foot capacity may limit larger dishes.
- The enclosure is black, while only the door frame is stainless steel.
With useful presets and essential convenience features, this BLACK+DECKER is a sensible choice when you want dependable countertop functionality without a complicated control scheme.
Quietest Pick – Breville Compact Wave Soft Close Microwave
Among microwave ovens under 500, the Breville Compact Wave stands out for convenience in smaller kitchens. This 0.9-cubic-foot, 900-watt countertop microwave combines one-touch shortcuts with a soft-close door and quieter operation.
Best For: Small kitchens, apartments, and households that value reduced noise and gentle reheating.
Pros:
- The soft-close door is engineered to be 80% quieter, with operation described as 50% quieter.
- One-touch Reheat, Defrost, Popcorn, and Beverage buttons simplify frequent tasks.
- Includes child lock, mute button, clock setting, power adjustment, and food-menu functions.
Cons:
- Its compact 0.9-cubic-foot capacity may not suit large cookware.
- The listed specifications identify two power levels, offering less adjustment detail than some competing models.
The Breville is a strong fit when noise control and easy shortcuts matter more than maximum capacity or an extensive set of power-level selections.
Most Adjustable – TOSHIBA 0.9 Cu. Ft. Microwave
For shoppers comparing microwave ovens under 500, this TOSHIBA model offers flexible controls in a compact footprint. It combines 900-watt output with 11 power levels, six preset menus, weight- or time-based defrosting, and one-touch starts from one to six minutes.
Best For: Apartment and dorm kitchens where adjustable cooking control and quick-start functions are priorities.
Pros:
- Provides 11 power levels for more precise cooking and reheating.
- Six preset menus include popular options such as popcorn, pizza, and potato.
- Features two-step child lock, mute function, LED lighting, and defrost by weight or time.
Cons:
- The compact 0.9-cubic-foot interior may be restrictive for oversized dishes.
- Its listed input power is 1,400 watts, higher than its 900-watt microwave output.
With more power-level choices than many compact models and useful quick-start controls, the TOSHIBA is well suited to users who want extra flexibility without moving to a larger microwave.
Best Features – Chefman 0.9 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave
The Chefman is a feature-rich option for shoppers browsing microwave ovens under 500. Its 900-watt output, 10 power levels, six presets, memory function, mute option, Eco Mode, and child safety controls make it practical for frequent countertop use.
Best For: Households wanting convenient presets, quiet operation options, and energy-conscious display control.
Pros:
- Six presets cover popcorn, pizza, beverages, vegetables, potatoes, and leftovers.
- Offers 10 power levels, +30-second cooking, one-touch express cooking, and a memory function.
- Mute button, Eco Mode, child safety lock, and dishwasher-safe glass turntable add convenience.
Cons:
- The 0.9-cubic-foot capacity may not accommodate larger serving dishes.
- The black finish may show grease or scuffs more readily than lighter finishes, despite its wipe-clean exterior.
The Chefman balances familiar microwave functions with thoughtful extras, making it a compelling choice for users who want more control and convenience from a compact appliance.
Most Versatile – Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1
For shoppers comparing microwave ovens under 500, the Breville Combi Wave stands out as a countertop appliance that does more than reheat. It combines microwave, convection oven, grill, and air-fry functions in a 1.1-cubic-foot design, with smart presets and inverter power smoothing for more even results.
Best For: Home cooks who want one appliance for microwaving, air frying, baking, grilling, and cooking from frozen.
Pros:
- Combines microwave, air fryer, convection oven, and grill functions.
- Offers 19 smart presets, including Smart Cook, Smart Reheat, and Smart Defrost.
- Power smoothing inverter helps reduce overheating and dried edges.
- Soft-close door and quieter operation improve the countertop experience.
Cons:
- Its multifunction design is more complex than a basic microwave.
- The 20.47-inch width and 25.6-pound weight require substantial counter space.
- It has a 1.1-cubic-foot capacity, smaller than some full-size countertop ovens.
This is the strongest choice when versatility matters more than simplicity. Its combination cooking modes, accessories, and smart programs make it useful for meals ranging from frozen dishes to air-fried sides and baked desserts.
Best Budget Basic – COMFEE' 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave
Among microwave ovens under 500, the COMFEE’ countertop model is a practical pick for small spaces and straightforward meals. Its 0.7-cubic-foot interior, 700-watt output, one-touch controls, and compact 17.3-inch width suit dorm rooms, offices, apartments, and other limited-counter areas.
Best For: Budget-conscious shoppers who need a compact microwave for reheating, beverages, popcorn, frozen vegetables, and simple defrosting.
Pros:
- Compact footprint works well in dorms, offices, and apartments.
- One-touch express cooking provides 1–6 minute settings plus 30-second increments.
- Includes popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage, and reheat programs.
- ECO mode reduces standby power, while mute operation limits beeps.
Cons:
- 700 watts and 0.7 cubic feet offer less capacity and power than larger models.
- The 10-inch turntable may limit the size of plates and containers.
- It is designed for basic microwave cooking rather than convection or air frying.
The COMFEE’ is a sensible choice when low cost, small dimensions, and easy controls are the priorities. It skips advanced cooking modes but covers the everyday microwave tasks most useful in compact living spaces.
Best Smart Microwave – Breville Smooth Wave
For buyers evaluating microwave ovens under 500, the Breville Smooth Wave focuses on precise reheating and cooking rather than extra oven functions. Sensor iQ technology, inverter power smoothing, and 15 smart presets help automate common tasks in its 1.2-cubic-foot countertop interior.
Best For: Users who want a quieter, sensor-guided microwave for precise reheating, defrosting, and everyday cooking.
Pros:
- Sensor iQ automatically adjusts power for cooking and reheating.
- Smart Reheat detects steam and sets a suitable cooking time.
- Inverter power smoothing helps heat food evenly and defrost without drying edges.
- Soft-close door, mute controls, and child lock add convenience and safety.
Cons:
- It does not include the air-fry or convection functions found on combination models.
- Its 34.2-pound weight makes it relatively heavy for a countertop microwave.
- The 8.75-inch listed turntable diameter may be restrictive for some larger dishes.
The Smooth Wave is a strong fit for shoppers who value controlled, quiet operation and automated presets. It is less versatile than Breville’s combination model, but its sensor features make routine cooking and reheating especially straightforward.
Best Compact Value – Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. Microwave
For shoppers comparing microwave ovens under 500, the Chefman offers a compact 0.7-cubic-foot design with 700 watts of power. Six presets, 10 power levels, and a mute option cover everyday reheating, defrosting, and quick cooking.
Best For: Apartments, dorms, offices, and buyers who want straightforward controls in a small footprint.
Pros:
- Six one-touch presets cover popcorn, pizza, beverages, vegetables, potatoes, and leftovers.
- Ten power levels and a +30-second button provide flexible control.
- Child safety lock, mute button, and dishwasher-safe glass turntable add convenience.
- Compact black design is easy to wipe clean.
Cons:
- The 0.7-cubic-foot capacity may limit larger dishes.
- Its 700-watt output is lower than some larger countertop models.
The Chefman is a practical small-space microwave with useful everyday features, especially if quiet operation and simple preset cooking matter more than maximum capacity.
Best Higher-Power Pick – Toshiba 0.9 Cu. Ft. Microwave
Among microwave ovens under 500, this Toshiba stands out with a 0.9-cubic-foot capacity and 900 watts of output power. Its six auto menus, 11 power levels, and one-touch start make it a versatile choice for daily meals and reheating.
Best For: Apartment kitchens and households wanting more cooking power and interior space than a mini microwave provides.
Pros:
- 900-watt output can handle everyday cooking and reheating efficiently.
- Eleven power levels offer precise control for different foods.
- Six preset menus include common choices such as popcorn, pizza, and potatoes.
- Includes defrost by weight or time, a mute function, and a 10.6-inch turntable.
Cons:
- Its external dimensions require more counter space than a 0.7-cubic-foot model.
- The two-step child lock may require following the specified opening procedure.
The Toshiba is a well-rounded countertop option for buyers who want a compact format without giving up stronger output, extra power-level control, or a slightly larger cooking area.
Best Simple Small-Space Option – 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave
For shoppers looking at microwave ovens under 500 for a dorm, apartment, or compact kitchen, this 0.7-cubic-foot model keeps the essentials simple. It combines 700 watts, 10 power levels, six one-touch options, and defrost settings in a space-conscious countertop design.
Best For: Buyers who want an easy-clean microwave with basic automatic programs and a visible interior light.
Pros:
- Six one-touch options include popcorn, potato, and pizza.
- Ten power levels support customized and multi-stage cooking.
- LED display, interior lighting, and a 9.6-inch glass turntable improve usability.
- Child lock and easy-clean interior suit everyday household use.
Cons:
- The 0.7-cubic-foot capacity may not fit larger plates or cookware.
- At 700 watts, it offers less output than the Toshiba model in this roundup.
This microwave focuses on practical essentials rather than extra features, making it a sensible choice when counter space, simple operation, and routine reheating are the main priorities.
How We Picked the Best Microwave Ovens Under 500
We focused on countertop models priced below $500 and evaluated the features that matter most in daily use: wattage, interior capacity, control layout, preset programs, size, cleaning convenience, and safety features. The selection includes compact microwaves for dorms, offices, and small apartments, along with larger or more versatile models for households that want additional cooking functions.
We also considered practical details such as one-touch controls, express cooking, eco modes, child locks, turntables, soft-close doors, and stainless-steel finishes. Because specifications and pricing can change, verify the current listing before purchasing.
Quick Comparison
| Best For | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Small kitchens | 0.7-cu.-ft. capacity, compact exterior, and 700 watts |
| Everyday family use | 0.9-cu.-ft. capacity, around 900 watts, and multiple presets |
| Simple operation | Clearly labeled controls and one-touch express cooking |
| Lower energy use | Eco mode and efficient standby settings |
| Expanded cooking flexibility | Combination functions such as convection or air frying |
Key Buying Factors for Microwave Ovens Under 500
Power and Cooking Speed
Microwave wattage affects how quickly and evenly food heats. A 700-watt model can handle basic reheating and defrosting, while a 900-watt oven is generally faster and better suited to frequent cooking. Follow package instructions carefully, since cooking times often assume a specific wattage.
Capacity and Countertop Space
Measure the available counter area, including room for ventilation and door clearance. Compact 0.7-cu.-ft. models are useful for small dishes and limited spaces. A 0.9-cu.-ft. interior offers more flexibility for dinner plates, bowls, and larger containers without taking up as much space as a full-size unit.
Controls and Useful Features
Presets for popcorn, potatoes, beverages, reheating, and defrosting can simplify routine tasks. A turntable helps promote more even heating, while an interior light makes it easier to monitor food. Child locks are especially valuable in family kitchens. Eco mode may reduce standby power consumption, but it should not outweigh essential performance or usability.
Cleaning and Construction
Look for a smooth interior, removable turntable, and an exterior that is easy to wipe clean. Stainless-steel finishes can complement other appliances, though fingerprints may be more visible. A soft-close door can be useful in quiet spaces where a forceful door slam is inconvenient.
Who Should Buy Which Microwave Ovens Under 500?
Choose a compact 700-watt microwave if you live alone, have limited counter space, or mainly reheat drinks, leftovers, and frozen meals. A 900-watt, 0.9-cu.-ft. model is a better all-purpose choice for couples and small families that need faster cooking and roomier dish clearance.
Prioritize straightforward controls and presets if multiple people will use the appliance. For shoppers who want more than microwave heating, a combination model with additional cooking functions may justify a larger footprint and higher price. Before ordering, compare the unit’s dimensions with your counter, confirm the interior can fit your usual dishes, and check the electrical requirements for your kitchen.