TOP 10 best inexpensive microwave ovens: description, pros and cons, price

Microwave ovens not only heat ready-made food, but also defrost food, prepare simple dishes, and with the built-in grill function, the number of available recipes increases even more.Inexpensive microwave ovens are now widespread, so choosing one won't be too difficult.

What to look for when choosing a microwave

When choosing an inexpensive microwave oven, determine for what purpose it is needed and where it will be located. This is necessary to select the volume, additional functions, type of placement (built-in or free-standing).

In addition to heating prepared food, the oven is used for:

1. Cooking. Contrary to the popular belief that nothing more complex than a cake or an omelet can be made in a microwave oven, complex recipes can also be prepared in a microwave oven. Baked fish, casserole, open pies (quiche), lasagna, soup, many others - all this is cooked in the microwave.
2. Dryer for vegetables and fruits. To save space, they do not purchase separate drying of fruits and mushrooms, but do this even in an inexpensive microwave oven.
3. Defrosting food. This popular feature is built into almost all microwave ovens. However, it is recommended to use it only for defrosting vegetables, berries or mushrooms. During the defrosting process, meat, seafood, and fish, even with low heat treatment, can begin to cook; as a result, they will not be uncooked, defrosted, but semi-cooked.
4. Sterilization. Cans or baby bottles are steamed in a microwave oven before sealing.Just carefully set the temperature so that the thin plastic parts do not deform.
5. Odor treatment. Lemon juice dissolved in water gets rid of unpleasant aroma on cutting boards by disinfecting them in the microwave.

But when using the stove, do not forget about precautions and subtleties, observing which, it will last longer than the approximate service life:

1. Using special utensils for microwave ovens. There is a mark on it. If it is not there, then check the information with the seller or play it safe by choosing another option.
2. When heating foods for a long time, stir them so that heating is even.
3. A special lid with holes is suitable for the release of condensate and steam.
4. When preparing food in the microwave, cut the food into small pieces so that the microwaves penetrate them completely.
5. Most microwaves heat food at the edges of the plate rather than in the middle. This is taken into account when frying or baking.
6. When preparing eggs, use only fresh ingredients. Pierce the yolks with a toothpick.

Nowadays there is a wide range of microwave ovens on the market of inexpensive household appliances for the kitchen. There are 3 main types:

1. Solo. Simple, inexpensive microwave ovens. They are found in all price segments. These are the best inexpensive microwave ovens. Suitable for defrosting, heating, and preparing simple dishes. There are models with already built-in modes for cooking certain products, similar to a multicooker.
2. With convection. An inexpensive oven not only heats the product directly using microwaves, but also blows hot air over it. A cooking effect similar to that in an oven is achieved.
3. With grill. In addition to regular heating, it fries food.The first type with a heating element is a tubular heating element located on top. The second type is with a quartz grill. The microwave oven contains a quartz glass tube. This mode gives the products a slight campfire smell.
4. An inexpensive combination microwave oven prepares any dishes of varying complexity and copes with simple tasks, such as heating and defrosting food.

Having analyzed all the possibilities and subtleties of using a microwave oven, they choose a model from the middle price segment, based on important criteria.

Power

Depending on the oven, the power varies. Most inexpensive models have the ability to lower it. Solos are released with an available power of 900 W. For other types (microwave ovens with grill, convection or combined) high is required - from 1000 to 1500 W.

Volume

It must be calculated based on needs, for example, the number of people (who use the microwave daily) or the frequency of preparing complex dishes (using grill or convection).

3 main types of inexpensive stoves by volume:

1. Up to 19 liters Inexpensive models. Enough to heat food on 1 medium-sized plate or defrost food in a small container.
2. From 20 to 25 l. This volume is comfortable for a small family of 2-4 people. In inexpensive microwave ovens of this size, the manufacturer adds grill and convection functions, which increases the possible tasks.
3. 26-32 l. Microwaves that are suitable for a large family for preparing different dishes with the help of additional functions. Completely replaces the oven and grill.
4. More than 33 l. Ovens for cafes or restaurants. They are production.

We bring to your attention the article - Is it possible to hang a microwave above a gas stove?.

Inner coating

Contrary to the common belief that only the visual part of the stove depends on the coating, in the case of the interior, it affects the ease of maintenance and service life. There are 4 types:

1. Under enamel. The most short-lived coating, lasts about 6 months. Well-known manufacturers do not use this type. Most often, this is done by little-known brands that have just entered the market with inexpensive products.
2. Heat-resistant enamel. Due to sensitivity to high temperatures, this type of coating is used only on solo models. It holds up well. A gentle wash is needed once a month, and periodic removal of dirt with a soft cloth or sponge. The main disadvantage of such enamel is that it is easy to damage, for example, with a hard side or a metal sponge. However, the price allows it to be used in inexpensive models of stoves, even from well-known brands.
3. Stainless steel. A popular finishing material, reliable, wear-resistant, can withstand high temperatures, which is why it is used in all types of microwave ovens. Steel is easy to care for using gentle cleaning agents that do not harm the coating. The only exception is that you should absolutely not use metal brushes or sponges.
4. Ceramic coating. Expensive, but justified - scratches from brushes and cleaning products are not scary, any dirt can be easily removed. The only drawback of such stoves is their heavy weight.

Control

Another important criterion when choosing an inexpensive microwave oven. This is a device for daily use and the controls should be clear and comfortable so that you don’t have to take out the instructions every time you change the mode.

There are 4 types of microwave oven controls:

1. Mechanical. A simple way to control is 2 knobs, one of which regulates the power (including the food defrosting mode), and the second controls the time.Due to its simplicity, this type is the most reliable, inexpensive, and popular, because even a child can figure it out.
2. Push-button. More difficult to use than the previous type, but visually certainly better. Such inexpensive microwave ovens have separate buttons with already configured cooking modes, the ability to regulate power and time based on the amount of food. The only drawback is that grease and dirt accumulate under the plastic, which are difficult to remove.
3. Sensory. A modern type of control, which includes a huge number of functions and modes. Such inexpensive stoves are the most popular at the moment due to their innovative adjustment method and modern design. However, there is a drawback - if you compare reliability, then this type of control is the most unreliable.
4. Mixed. One of the popular combinations is push-button-mechanical. Inexpensive stove models are popular because of their convenience, as they combine simple handles, a clear display with the ability to adjust modes using buttons.

Additional functions

For some, a simple power adjustment is enough to heat food. But additional options make life easier and allow you to get the functionality of several when purchasing one stove. We are not talking about microwave ovens with grill or convection functions, since these are different types of devices that have additional options.

The most popular built-in additional features of inexpensive microwave ovens are:

1. Defrosting. Available in almost every inexpensive microwave oven. It involves heating food for a long time at minimum power.
2. Child protection. A useful option for those whose stove is located in such a way that a child can reach it.This is a combination of 2 buttons that locks the device so that even if children press something, nothing happens.
3. Temperature support. After heating the food, the timer will automatically turn off. The temperature inside the housing is maintained for some time, preventing the food from cooling down.
4. Double boiler. This additional option is not available on all inexpensive models. It consists of a built-in additional steam and temperature sensor. This function will be appreciated by those who adhere to proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle.
5. Cleaning from odors and dirt. The microwave oven is equipped with a device for supplying hot steam and a fan, which softens even stubborn stains like a steam mop.
6. Express heating. Essentially just regular heating. The only difference is that the maximum power is set, the products heat up in a few seconds.

Based on the criteria and needs, choosing a suitable inexpensive stove is simplified.

Top best inexpensive microwaves

The average price for inexpensive microwave ovens does not exceed 6,000 rubles. Models in this price segment are displayed in popular household appliance stores or on marketplaces.

The best budget microwave ovens are represented by well-known brands that produce both inexpensive and premium products. The rating includes 7 different microwave ovens.

LG MS-2042DB

The company has been producing large and small household appliances for 60 years. Almost every home has at least one device from this company. The inexpensive LG MS-2042DB microwave oven is called one of the best in the segment (average price 5500-6500 rubles).

The type of this microwave is solo. Power – 700 W. The chamber volume is 20 liters, which is enough for a small family.The stove has a stylish design and is available in black and white. The innovative interior coating makes maintenance easy.

Advantages:

• famous brand;
• 32 cooking modes;
• touch control;
• stylish design;
• additional energy saving mode;
• protection from children;
• innovative I-Wave technology that evenly distributes heat.

Flaws:

• stains are equally visible on the black and white body;
• The door open button is too hard.

Horizont 20MW700-1479BHB

Microwave oven with built-in grill. The average price of this model rarely exceeds 6,000 rubles. The Belarusian brand Horizon has been producing inexpensive, reliable products at a low price for many years. Therefore, this microwave oven model ended up in second place in the rating, behind the global electronics giant.

The design using tempered glass and minimalist buttons will appeal to lovers of modern style. An inexpensive oven quickly heats food, not dishes. It has an additional grill function, which allows you to cook original dishes with a golden brown crust.

Advantages:

• power 700 W, grill 1000 W;
• protection from children;
• 5 cooking modes;
• push-button control type;
• stylish design;
• internal coating – enameled steel.

Flaws:

• long warm-up in some modes;
• The door is easily soiled, traces and fingerprints are visible.

Gorenje MO17E1W

A small microwave oven with a capacity of 17 liters is well suited for heating food in small offices or for a family of 1-3 people. The inexpensive model has a simple mechanical control, which, unfortunately, does not provide child protection.

Advantages:

• innovative system for cleaning the interior coating with steam “Aqua clean”;
• compactness;
• timer, quick start;
• low cost (up to 4000 rubles);
• Beautiful design.

Flaws:

• small chamber volume;
• tight opening button;
• no child protection.

BBK 23MWC-881T/B-M

This microwave is a little more expensive than the previous ones - the average price is 7,000 rubles. This is due to the presence of the convection function. The model is made in a fashionable modern design, strict color. The 23-liter chamber is suitable for use in a small family not only for heating food, but also for preparing dishes using convection and grilling. It can fully replace an inexpensive oven.

Advantages:

• protection from children;
• touch control;
• built-in grill, convection
• solo mode power 800 W.

Flaws:

• long heating of ready-made dishes;
• a easily soiled coating that easily leaves marks.

BBK 20MWS-728S/W

Inexpensive solo microwave oven with a power of 700 W, with a chamber volume of 20 liters. The body and harmonious touch control panel are made in white, and the door is made of dark tempered glass.

The maximum timer time is 99 minutes, which allows you to cook some dishes at low power. The main disadvantage of the inexpensive model is that they heat the food by setting it for 30 seconds, then adding 60 seconds each. Although in similar devices - 10, 20 seconds, respectively.

Advantages:

• protection from children;
• touch control;
• stylish design;
• step-by-step cooking;
• easy door opening button;
• 10 power adjustment modes;
• automatic cooking function.

Flaws:

• increasing the heating time by 30, 60 seconds;
• soiled surface of the body.

Binatone FMO 2030 W

Many people are not familiar with this brand and try to avoid it.However, Binatone established itself back in the 1960s as a manufacturer of inexpensive, high-quality household appliances.

This model of microwave oven, according to reviews, corresponds to “price-quality”, because for 5,000 rubles. This is one of the best devices on the market in this price segment. Compact size combines with reliability and functionality. It is well suited for use in a small family, in a country house or in a small office.

Advantages:

• compactness, because the oven depth is 34 cm;
• power adjustment with food defrosting function;
• mechanical control;
• standard power 700 W;
• large, non-rigid door opening button.

Flaws:

• time adjustment is only 1 minute;
• lack of protection from children;
• noisy when working;
• unpopular brand.

Midea MM720CPI

This Russian model is a bit reminiscent of the previous one from the Binatone brand, but not as compact. Visually, the inexpensive microwave oven is made in white with a darkened door. There are 2 mechanical control handles on the side.

One regulates power, the second time, and a wide button for opening the door. The price of the device does not exceed 3,500 rubles, which makes it the most budget-friendly of this rating.

Advantages:

• wide tray;
• ease of care;
• low price;
• 5 temperature adjustment modes.

Flaws:

• timer with a limit of 35 minutes;
• the door open button begins to “stick” after some time of use;
• lack of protection from children.

Inexpensive microwave ovens are freestanding. If there is a need to visually hide such a device, then design solutions are used. But in such cases, built-in appliances look more harmonious and aesthetically pleasing.Their main difference is that even inexpensive models have an average price tag higher than standard stoves. Below is an overview of the top 3 best built-in microwave ovens in the mid-price segment.

Hansa AMG20BFH

This model is one of the best among built-in microwave ovens. Its cost starts from 14,500 rubles. The German brand Hansa has been known for many years as a manufacturer of high-quality household appliances and electronics.

It combines quality, reliability, compactness, and ease of management. The chamber volume of 20 liters is well suited for use in a small family for both standard heating of ready-made dishes and cooking.

Advantages:

• 7 temperature adjustment modes;
• built-in quartz grill with a power of 900 W;
• low price.

Flaws:

• long warm-up;
• one additional grid.

Electrolux EMT 25207 OX

The cost of this stove is slightly higher, starting from 16,500 rubles. The brand is known for high-quality household appliances at different prices - from inexpensive to premium. However, the price-quality ratio always remains high.

The microwave oven has a stylish design and a large capacity of 25 liters, which makes it ideal even for a large family. It is easy to care for the enamel coating using special gentle products, soft sponges, for example, melamine. There is a built-in grill function with a power of up to 1000 W.

Advantages:

• timer 95 min;
• built-in grill;
• 8 power adjustment modes;
• touch control.

Flaws:

• big size;
• lack of additional functions, such as steam cleaning.

Midea MI9250BX

Midea company belongs to the middle price segment. The cost of the oven starts from 20,000 rubles, which is expensive compared to standard microwaves. However, for embedded technology, it’s normal.

The large chamber volume of 25 liters is suitable for a large family both for regular heating of food and for preparing complex dishes. The inside of the chamber is made of stainless steel.

Advantages:

• built-in grill;
• large volume;
• Quiet when working.

Flaws:

• inconvenience when setting a long heating time, because one step is 30 seconds;
• lack of automatic temperature maintenance.

If you correctly determine your needs, choosing an inexpensive microwave oven is easy. Now on marketplaces, in mass markets of electronics and household appliances there is a wide range for any budget.

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