Let’s be real, the microwave oven is the unsung hero of the modern kitchen. It’s the trusty sidekick for late-night snacks, the savior of forgotten leftovers, and the express train to a hot cup of tea. But what if you’re short on space or cash? The good news is, you don’t need a monolithic, stainless steel beast to get the job done. The quest to Buy Small Microwave Oven Under 70 dollars is not only possible, it’s a smart move for millions of people. Whether you’re outfitting a dorm room, a cozy apartment, or a bustling office breakroom, this guide is your roadmap to finding a compact powerhouse that won’t break the bank.
For those setting up a shared workspace, understanding the specific needs of that environment is key. To understand more about what features matter most when you buy microwave oven for office, this additional context will be incredibly useful.
Why Go Small? The Mighty Power of Compact Microwaves
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of watts and cubic feet, let’s talk about why a small microwave is often the perfect choice. The most obvious reason is space. In a world of shrinking living quarters, from studio apartments in the city to shared college dorms, countertop real estate is as precious as gold. A compact microwave tucks neatly into a corner, leaving you room for, you know, actually preparing food.
But it’s not just about space. They’re also perfect for:
- Office Breakrooms: A simple, no-fuss machine for reheating lunch is all most workplaces need.
- RVs and Campers: When every inch and ounce counts, a small microwave provides a huge convenience boost.
- The Elderly or People with Mobility Issues: A lighter, smaller unit is easier to manage and clean.
- As a Second Microwave: Maybe you have a big, over-the-range model but want a small one in the basement bar or workshop for quick snacks.
A small microwave focuses on doing one job and doing it well: heating food quickly and efficiently.
What Can You Realistically Expect for Under $70?
Setting the right expectations is crucial when shopping on a budget. You’re not going to get a convection oven combo with air-frying capabilities for this price. But what you will get is a perfectly capable appliance that handles all the essentials.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical features you’ll find when you look to buy small microwave oven under 70:
- Power (Wattage): Most models in this price range will be 700 watts. This is the standard for compact microwaves. Is it less powerful than a 1200-watt behemoth? Yes. Does it matter for reheating coffee or cooking a bag of popcorn? Not really. It might take 30 seconds longer, but your food will get just as hot.
- Capacity: You’ll be looking at around 0.7 cubic feet. Let’s translate that into real-world terms. It’s large enough to fit a standard 10-inch dinner plate, a microwave-safe bowl, or a bag of popcorn. You won’t be roasting a whole chicken in there, but that’s not what it’s for.
- Core Functions: Expect the basics: variable power levels (usually 10), a kitchen timer, and a defrost function (either by time or weight).
- Presets: Most will come with handy one-touch buttons for common items like Popcorn, Potato, Pizza, and Frozen Dinner.
While this guide focuses on the most budget-friendly options, it’s always wise to see how they stack up against a wider market. For a comprehensive look at what different price points offer, you can check out a detailed microwave oven price comparison 2025 to make a fully informed decision.
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Our Picks for the Best Microwave Oven in 2025
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| Num | Product | Action |
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| 1 | TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable, Function, 1.6 Cu.ft 13.6\" Removable Black Stainless Steel, 1200W |
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| 2 | Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button - Black |
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| 3 | BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, Stainless Steel, 0.9 Cu Ft |
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| 4 | TOSHIBA ML4-EM12PA(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Stylish Design As Kitchen Essentials, Smart Sensor, 13 Auto Menus&Mute Function, 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4\" Turntable, 1000W, Black Stainless Steel |
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| 5 | Nostalgia Retro 1000W Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu Ft Capacity – Child Safety Lock, 8 Auto-Cook Settings – Countertop Kitchen Appliance – White |
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| 6 | TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4\" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior Black Color 1000W |
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| 7 | Farberware FMWO11AHTBKB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave Oven |
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| 8 | TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, Perfect for Apartments & Dorms, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Stainless Steel |
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| 9 | BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 1000W, 1.1cu.ft, Black & Stainless Steel, 1.1 Cu.ft |
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| 10 | Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu. Ft., 900 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button - Black |
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Key Features to Look for When You Buy a Small Microwave Oven Under 70
Even within a tight budget, not all small microwaves are created equal. Here are the key things to compare to ensure you get the best bang for your buck.
How Important is Wattage?
Wattage is essentially the microwave’s horsepower. A 700-watt microwave will cook a bit slower than a 1000-watt one. For example, a frozen meal that requires 5 minutes in a 1000W oven might need 6 or 6.5 minutes in a 700W model. It’s a minor difference for most daily tasks.
As our in-house appliance expert, John Peterson, who has been repairing kitchen gadgets for over 15 years, often says, “Don’t get too hung up on high wattage for a small oven. A reliable 700-watt unit with even heating from a good turntable will outperform a poorly designed 900-watt one every time.”
The Turntable: Your Key to Even Cooking
A revolving turntable is non-negotiable. It’s the single most important feature for ensuring your food heats evenly, preventing those dreaded hot and cold spots. The magic of a microwave comes from a device called a magnetron, which floods the cooking chamber with microwaves. The turntable rotates your food through this energy field, ensuring all sides get their fair share of heat. Make sure the model you choose has a removable glass turntable for easy cleaning.
Controls: Digital Pad vs. Rotary Dials
This often comes down to personal preference.
- Digital Touchpads: Offer more precision (you can type in “1:45” instead of guessing) and access to those one-touch presets. They look more modern but can sometimes be less intuitive for simple tasks.
- Rotary Dials: Super simple and durable. One dial for power, one for time. They are fantastic for their simplicity, especially for older users or in a workplace setting where you just want to “set it and forget it.”
Don’t Forget the Little Things
- Child Lock: An essential safety feature if you have curious little ones around.
- Interior Light: It seems obvious, but some ultra-cheap models might skip it. You want to be able to see your food to prevent boil-overs.
- Clear Door Window: For the same reason as the light, you want to be able to monitor your food.
Microwave Safety and Smart Usage Tips
Owning a microwave is easy, but using it safely and effectively makes all the difference. I once learned the hard way that a tiny fleck of aluminum foil on a takeout container can create a startling light show—that’s called arcing, and it’s bad for your microwave.
Your Microwave Safety Checklist
- Never run it empty. The microwaves need something (food or water) to absorb their energy. Running it empty can seriously damage the magnetron.
- Use microwave-safe containers only. This means glass, ceramic, and plastics marked as “microwave safe.” Never put metal, aluminum foil, or dishware with metallic trim inside.
- Clean up spills promptly. Food debris can absorb energy and burn, causing unpleasant smells and potential damage.
- Don’t operate with a broken door. The door seal is critical for keeping the microwave energy contained. If it’s damaged, it’s time for a new oven.
How to Clean Your Microwave the Easy Way
Here’s a trick that takes five minutes and requires zero scrubbing.
- Fill a microwave-safe bowl with 1 cup of water and add a few tablespoons of white vinegar or a sliced-up lemon.
- Place the bowl in the microwave and run it on high for 3-5 minutes, until the water is boiling and the window is steamy.
- Let it sit with the door closed for another 5 minutes. The steam will soften all the baked-on gunk.
- Open the door, carefully remove the hot bowl and the turntable.
- Wipe the inside clean with a paper towel or sponge. Everything will come right off!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is a 700-watt microwave powerful enough for daily use?
Absolutely. For common tasks like reheating leftovers, making popcorn, melting butter, or cooking frozen vegetables, 700 watts is perfectly sufficient. It may take slightly longer than higher-wattage models, but the difference is often negligible for single servings.
2. What does 0.7 cubic feet of capacity actually fit?
A 0.7 cu. ft. microwave can comfortably fit a standard 10-inch dinner plate, a large soup mug, or a regular-sized bag of microwave popcorn. It’s ideal for individuals, couples, or as a secondary appliance.
3. Can I cook “real” meals in a small microwave?
Yes, you can! Beyond reheating, you can steam vegetables, cook potatoes, make oatmeal, and even cook fish or chicken breasts. The key is to use smaller portions and follow microwave-specific recipes.
4. Are small, cheap microwaves less safe than expensive ones?
No. All microwave ovens sold in the United States must meet strict safety standards set by the FDA. As long as you buy from a reputable brand and use it according to the manufacturer’s instructions, a budget-friendly microwave is just as safe.
5. How long should a small microwave last?
With proper care and average use, a compact microwave oven should last anywhere from 5 to 10 years. Since they are so affordable, many people simply replace them when they fail rather than attempting repairs.
Your Perfect Compact Kitchen Companion Awaits
Ultimately, the journey to buy small Microwave Oven under 70 is about finding a tool that simplifies your life. It’s about getting that hot meal ready in minutes without sacrificing your entire countertop or your entire paycheck. By focusing on the essentials—reliable wattage, a functional turntable, and simple controls—you can find a fantastic appliance that will serve you well for years. It’s proof that sometimes, the best things really do come in small, affordable packages. And in a world of complex kitchen gadgets, the humble, hardworking microwave remains a true champion of convenience. For those looking for added perks, it’s also worth checking if you can buy microwave oven with free shipping, as this can make an already great deal even better. And while you likely won’t need them for such an affordable purchase, it’s good to know that for larger kitchen upgrades, microwave oven financing options are often available.