How do you choose an affordable microwave?

Written by Caitlin

Edited on

27 January 2025

·

13:10

How do you choose an affordable microwave?

What functions does an affordable microwave up to € 70 have? Can you get a good combi microwave for € 90, or do you have to spend more? In this article, we'll give you an overview of the microwave functions you can expect with a low budget.

Microwave up to 70 euros

Up to € 70: only solo microwaves

You'll find the most affordable microwaves in the price range up to € 70. An affordable microwave often is a solo microwave in which you can heat up or defrost dishes. With a wattage of 700 or 800W, you heat up dishes less quickly than when you choose a microwave of a higher price range. The microwaves in this price range are always freestanding.

  • Solo microwave (heating up and defrosting)
  • Freestanding
  • 700 or 800W (heat up less quickly)
  • Basic build quality
Retro microwave

€ 70 to € 100: retro solo microwaves

Are you looking for an affordable microwave with an exceptional appearance? In this price range, you'll find the first, affordable, retro microwaves. A model in this price range is often a solo microwave with a low to medium power and with a basic build quality. In a higher price range, you'll find combi microwaves and models with a better build quality.

  • Solo microwave (heating up and defrosting)
  • Freestanding
  • Grill (for crispy dishes)
  • 800 or 900W (less quickly or medium heating up)
  • Basic build quality
Microwave between 100 and 150 euros

€ 100 to € 150: affordable combi microwaves

Do you want to prepare casseroles and pizzas in addition to heating up or defrosting meals? Check the microwaves in the € 100 to € 150 range. In this price range, you'll find the most affordable combi microwaves. They often have a basic or mid-range build quality. Choose a microwave with mid-range build quality if you want your new purchase to last longer.

  • Combi microwave (heating up, baking, roasting)
  • Freestanding
  • Grill (for crispy dishes)
  • 900 or 1000W (medium to fast)
  • Basic or mid-range build quality
Microwave between 150 and 250 euros

€ 150 to € 250: complete microwaves

For a built-in microwave, your search should start in this price range. Here, you'll find freestanding combi microwaves and solo or combi built-in microwaves. With a power of 900 to 1000W, you can heat up dishes medium to fast.

  • Combi microwave
  • Built-in and freestanding
  • Grill (for crispy dishes)
  • 900 to 1000W (medium to fast)
  • Basic or mid-range build quality
Second Chance microwave

What's a Second Chance microwave?

Make sure to check our Second Chance microwaves too if you're looking for an affordable option. A Second Chance product always includes a note why it's a Second Chance. Usually, it's because of small damage or opened packaging. The microwave itself is fine, but it may have a dent. It allows you to save a bit of money on the original price.

View all Second Chance microwaves

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Article by Caitlin

Microwave Expert.

Caitlin