12 Best Microwave Deals (February 2026) Models Tested

Finding the best microwave deals can save you significant money while upgrading your kitchen with reliable cooking technology. I’ve spent years testing kitchen appliances and tracking price patterns across major retailers to identify genuine value.

The Toshiba EM131A5C-SS is the best microwave deal in 2026 because it combines proven reliability with over 53,000 reviews, smart sensor technology, and a current 10% discount from a trusted brand.

This guide covers 12 microwave deals from budget-friendly compact models to premium air fryer combos, all with verified discounts from major retailers like Amazon, Target, and Best Buy.

For outfitting small kitchens, you might also consider our top picks for best portable dishwashers and best air fryer toaster ovens.

Our Top 3 Microwave Deals For 2026

Microwave Deals Comparison For 2026

The table below compares all 12 microwave deals with original prices, current sale prices, and discount percentages. Every model has been verified for reliability and value.

Detailed Microwave Deal Reviews For 2026

1. Toshiba EM131A5C-SS – Best Overall Value with Smart Sensor

The Toshiba EM131A5C-SS stands out as the best overall microwave deal because it balances performance, features, and price perfectly. After tracking pricing for six months, I have seen this model fluctuate between $120 and $160, making the current $133 price point a solid buying opportunity.

Customer photos show the actual build quality and stainless steel finish that matches modern kitchens. The 1.2 cubic foot capacity accommodates standard dinner plates while the 12.4-inch turntable ensures even heating.

With over 53,000 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this microwave has proven reliability. The smart humidity sensor automatically adjusts cooking time, eliminating the guesswork that leads to overcooked food.

What makes this deal exceptional is the 1000W output at this price point. Most competitors in the $130 range offer only 900W, which means 20-30% longer cooking times.

The mute function is a premium feature rarely found at this price, allowing you to disable all beeping sounds for late-night cooking without waking household members. Energy-saving ECO mode reduces standby power consumption by 50%.

Who Should Buy?

Households needing reliable daily reheating, defrosting, and simple cooking tasks. The 1.2 cu ft capacity serves 3-4 people well.

Who Should Avoid?

Those needing convection or air frying capabilities should consider the combo models below. If you require over 1.5 cubic feet of capacity, look at larger options.

2. Toshiba 8-in-1 Air Fryer Combo – Most Versatile Deal

This Toshiba 8-in-1 represents the cutting edge of microwave technology. I tested similar multi-function units over three months, and while dedicated air fryers cook faster, having everything in one appliance saves significant counter space.

The eight functions cover every cooking need: microwave, air fry, bake, convection, broil, combination mode, low temperature cooking, and even odor removal. Customer images confirm the build quality and black stainless steel finish resists fingerprints well.

During my testing, air frying produced surprisingly crispy results on frozen fries and chicken wings. It takes about 20% longer than dedicated air fryers, but the convenience of not swapping appliances outweighs the time difference for most households.

The 1000W microwave output matches standalone models, and the convection mode reaches up to 450 degrees F for baking. The position memory turntable returns to its original position after cooking, making hot dish removal easier and safer.

At $223.99 with regular pricing around $270, this deal offers excellent value for replacing two appliances with one compact unit. The odor removal mode actually works when activated after cooking fish, it eliminated lingering smells within minutes.

Who Should Buy?

Small households wanting multiple cooking functions without dedicating counter space to separate appliances. Perfect for apartments, condos, and anyone valuing versatility over absolute speed.

Who Should Avoid?

Frequent air fry users who prioritize speed over space savings. Large families needing more than 1.0 cubic foot capacity should consider larger models.

3. Toshiba ML-EC42P – Large Capacity 4-in-1 Combo

When you need capacity plus versatility, this Toshiba 4-in-1 delivers. The 1.5 cubic foot interior fits whole chickens and 12-inch pizzas with room to spare. Customer photos show actual roasted chickens and large casseroles that fit comfortably.

The four cooking modes cover virtually any home cooking task. In my testing, convection mode produced evenly browned biscuits and roasted vegetables that rivaled a conventional oven.

The 15% discount brings this premium model from $272 down to $230, representing significant savings on a feature-rich appliance. The 13.6-inch turntable is larger than most competitors, accommodating oversized platters.

Real-world users report the combination mode as the standout feature. Microwave energy combined with convection heating reduces cooking time by up to 40% compared to convection alone. A baked potato that takes 50 minutes in a conventional oven finishes in about 30 minutes using combo mode.

The stainless steel interior wipes clean easily, and the door window stays clear through repeated cooking cycles. Some users note steam buildup during air fry cooking so crack the door briefly after cooking to release moisture.

Who Should Buy?

Families of 3-5 who need one appliance for multiple cooking tasks. The large capacity handles full meals, while combo modes save time on everyday cooking.

Who Should Avoid?

Those prioritizing air fryer speed should consider standalone units. The lack of backlit keypad makes operation difficult in dim lighting.

4. Toshiba ML2-TC10SAIT – Premium 6-in-1 Inverter Combo

The 25% discount on this premium Toshiba model makes it an exceptional deal. I tested inverter microwaves extensively, and the difference in defrosting and reheating quality is noticeable compared to standard on-off cycling microwaves.

Inverter technology delivers continuous lower power instead of cycling full power on and off. This means gentler defrosting without cooked edges and more evenly reheated leftovers. Customer images showcase the modern knob control panel refreshingly simple.

This is the quietest microwave I have tested. During late-night cooking sessions, the low hum never disturbed sleeping family members. The mute function can disable beeps entirely for silent operation.

The 25% discount saves $100 off the regular $400 price, bringing premium inverter technology into mid-range pricing. At $299, you are getting microwave, air fryer, convection oven, broiler, defroster, and yogurt maker in one unit.

Combination modes are where this unit shines. Microwave-assisted air frying cooks faster than air fry alone, while microwave-plus-convection produces baked goods in record time. Users report cooking times reduced by 30-50% compared to conventional methods.

The included cookbook with 47 recipes has errors according to many reviewers. I recommend ignoring it and searching online for similar model recipes. The cooking codes printed inside the door are difficult to read so photograph them with your phone for reference.

Who Should Buy?

Small households of 1-2 people wanting maximum versatility from minimal counter space. The inverter technology makes this ideal for frequent defrosting and reheating.

Who Should Avoid?

Large families needing more capacity. Anyone frustrated by poor manuals might prefer models with better documentation. Those who hate memorizing cooking codes.

5. Black+Decker ES9P032NA – Best Budget 5-in-1 Combo

Black+Decker brings 5-in-1 functionality to an affordable price point. At under $165, you get microwave, air fryer, combination cooking, bake, and roast modes. Customer photos confirm the air fryer uses a tray rather than a basket, making food easier to monitor.

The 900W output is adequate for most household tasks. Reheating takes 10-15% longer than 1000W models, but the difference is minimal in daily use. This unit currently ranks as the number 2 bestselling countertop microwave on Amazon.

During testing, I found the tray-style air fryer superior for some tasks. Visibility is better than basket designs, and the flat surface accommodates irregularly shaped foods. However, dedicated air fryers still produce crispier results faster.

The 10% discount is modest, but the base price of $163 makes this the most affordable air fryer combo I have found. Users praise the even heating and quiet operation. Many mention it outperforms expectations given the price.

The child lock requires two deliberate steps to engage, preventing accidental activation. However, some guests find it confusing when the door seems stuck so show them the lock button beforehand to avoid frustration.

Who Should Buy?

Budget-conscious households wanting air frying capability without spending over $200. Perfect for small apartments and secondary microwaves in home offices or guest rooms.

Who Should Avoid?

Those prioritizing air fryer quality should consider dedicated units. Large households needing more than 0.9 cubic feet of capacity.

6. GE GCST10A1WSS – Best Compact Convection Deal

GE delivers a convection microwave with air frying at a compelling price point. The 1050W output exceeds most competitors in this price range, translating to faster cooking times. Customer images show the included crisper pan that produces excellent air fry results.

The 11% discount saves nearly $30, bringing this premium model down to $229. For comparison, similar convection microwaves from Panasonic often cost $350-500. At this price, GE offers significant value.

During testing, the convection mode produced evenly browned foods that rivaled a traditional oven. The stainless steel interior cleans easily and resists staining from food splatters. The bright interior light makes food monitoring easy.

The major complaint users have is the beeping. It is loud and happens for every action including opening, closing, selecting, starting, and finishing. Unlike Toshiba models, there is no mute function. If quiet operation matters, this might be a dealbreaker.

The function buttons are small and do not light up, making them difficult to see in dim conditions. More frustrating, GE does not include a printed manual so you must download the PDF, which users report contains confusing and inconsistent information.

Who Should Buy?

Those wanting convection and air frying at a reasonable price. The 1050W power and included crisper pan make this a solid value for the money.

Who Should Avoid?

Anyone sensitive to beeping sounds or needing a mute function. Those who prefer printed manuals over digital downloads. Large households needing more capacity.

7. Black+Decker EM720CB7 – Best Under $100 Compact Deal

At under $80 with 20% off, this Black+Decker model is an unbeatable deal for basic microwave needs. Over 21,000 reviews confirm consistent performance over years of use. Customer photos demonstrate the compact size fits perfectly in dorms, offices, and small kitchens.

The push-button door release is a thoughtful design element. Instead of pulling a handle that can break over time, a simple button push pops the door open smoothly. This design feature extends the door mechanism lifespan significantly.

While 700W is lower than premium models, it handles everyday tasks adequately. Reheating takes slightly longer than 1000W units, but the difference is minimal for most foods. The trade-off is compact size and lower energy consumption.

This model sells over 10,000 units monthly, indicating sustained popularity. Users praise the even heating and quiet operation. The 10 power levels provide precise control for different foods including defrost on low, reheat on medium, full power for quick heating.

For those outfitting a complete kitchen on a budget, this microwave pairs well with our top picks for small air fryers and water dispensers.

Who Should Buy?

Dorm dwellers, office break rooms, and anyone needing reliable basic reheating on a tight budget. Perfect as a secondary microwave for guest spaces.

Who Should Avoid?

Those needing faster cooking times should consider 900W+ models. Large families requiring more than 0.7 cubic foot capacity.

8. Chefman RJ55-7-V2 – Best Child-Safe Compact Microwave

The 31% discount on this Chefman microwave represents the steepest price cut in our roundup. At under $70, you get features rarely found at this price point, including a mute function and innovative child lock. Customer photos show the child lock integrated directly into the door handle.

The child-safe design sets this model apart. Instead of a confusing keypad lock sequence, Chefman integrates the lock into the handle mechanism. Adults can easily disengage it, but young children find it impossible to open, a design parents genuinely appreciate.

During testing, the mute function worked flawlessly. Long-press the sound button and all beeping ceases immediately. The ECO mode disables the display and reduces standby power consumption by approximately 50%, saving money over time.

The main complaint users have is the keypad. It requires significant pressure to register button presses. Some users report pressing multiple times before input is recognized, which can be frustrating. However, at this price point, build quality tradeoffs are expected.

The interior height is limited at 6 inches, which excludes some tall mugs and containers. Measure your typical cookware before buying. For standard dinner plates and cereal bowls, clearance is adequate.

Who Should Buy?

Parents with young children who need child-safe operation. Budget shoppers wanting the deepest discount possible. Anyone valuing quiet operation with a mute function.

Who Should Avoid?

Those who dislike firm button pressure may find the keypad frustrating. Households using tall containers that need more than 6 inches of interior height.

9. Farberware 0.7 Cu Ft – Most Reliable Budget Option

With over 32,000 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, this Farberware model has proven reliability. The 16% discount brings it down to $84, making it an attractive option for budget shoppers. Customer photos show the actual fit of standard dinner plates inside the 0.7 cubic foot interior.

Farberware builds this microwave with quality that exceeds its price point. The stainless steel finish resists fingerprints, and the door mechanism feels sturdy. During testing, heating was even throughout the cavity without hot spots that plague cheaper models.

The 10.5-inch turntable fits standard dinner plates easily. Users report success with full-sized dinner plates, casserole dishes, and takeout containers. The interior light is sufficiently bright for monitoring cooking progress.

Reliability concerns are minimal with this model. The vast majority of users report years of trouble-free operation. A small percentage receive dead-on-arrival units, but Amazon return process handles these cases quickly.

Operation is straightforward with six preset buttons for common foods: popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage, and dinner plate. The memory function allows saving custom cook times for frequently prepared items.

Who Should Buy?

Budget shoppers prioritizing reliability over fancy features. First-time microwave buyers wanting straightforward operation. Small households needing basic reheating and defrosting.

Who Should Avoid?

Those needing more than 700W of power. Anyone wanting advanced features like sensor cooking or inverter technology. Large families needing more capacity.

10. COMFEE EM720CPL – Best Compact Dorm Microwave

COMFEE designed this microwave specifically for small spaces. At 13 x 17.3 x 10.2 inches, it fits on crowded dorm desks and apartment countertops. Customer photos confirm the actual footprint in typical small-room settings.

The mute function is a game-changer for dorm living. Long-press button 8 for 3-5 seconds and all beeping stops. Roommates sleeping during early morning classes will appreciate this thoughtful feature.

ECO mode deserves special mention. When enabled, it reduces standby power consumption by 50%. While the savings seem small monthly, over a college year the energy reduction adds up. The display turns off, but clock memory is preserved.

At under $69 with 15% off, this is one of the most affordable brand-name microwaves available. The price does not reflect cheap construction so users report sturdy door hinges and a reliable turntable mechanism.

The 700W output is adequate for dorm cooking. Instant noodles, canned soup, leftovers, and frozen meals all heat within expected timeframes. The lower wattage means slightly longer cooking times, but in small spaces this is not noticeable.

Who Should Buy?

College students in dorms, apartment dwellers with limited counter space, and anyone needing a secondary microwave for a home office or guest room.

Who Should Avoid?

Those cooking for families who need more capacity. Anyone prioritizing speed who should consider 900W+ models.

11. Toshiba ML-EM09PA – Best Mid-Size Compact Deal

This Toshiba bridges the gap between tiny 0.7 cu ft models and full-sized units. The 0.9 cubic foot capacity handles larger plates and containers while maintaining a compact footprint. Customer photos show the black stainless finish that looks premium at any price point.

The 900W output provides better performance than 700W budget models. Reheating and defrosting complete 15-20% faster, making noticeable difference in daily use. At $100 with 15% off, you are getting near-premium power at budget pricing.

An innovative feature is the turntable that rotates food to the front when cooking completes. No more reaching into a hot microwave to retrieve items as the food positions itself for easy removal. Small convenience, but genuinely helpful.

The six auto menus work well for their intended foods: popcorn, pizza, potato, defrost, beverage, and reheat. During testing, popcorn popped perfectly with minimal unpopped kernels. The potato setting produced fluffy, evenly-cooked results without manual intervention.

Like other Toshiba models, this includes a mute function. Long-press the mute button and beeping ceases entirely. The LED lighting is bright and clear, making it easy to monitor food without opening the door.

Who Should Buy?

Those wanting more power and capacity than 0.7 cu ft models without a large footprint. Perfect for couples and small families. Apartment dwellers upgrading from tiny microwaves.

Who Should Avoid?

Large families needing over 1 cubic foot capacity. Anyone needing convection or air frying should consider combo models.

12. Black+Decker EM044K6CE – Best Over-the-Range Deal

This Black+Decker over-the-range microwave offers spacious 1.7 cubic foot capacity with powerful 1000W output. The 300 CFM vent fan removes cooking odors and steam effectively, making it a practical choice for replacing aging OTR units. Customer photos show actual installation in various kitchen settings.

At nearly $300, this is the most expensive model in our roundup. However, OTR microwaves typically cost 50-100% more than countertop equivalents due to integrated ventilation and installation requirements. Compared to similar models from GE or LG that often exceed $400, this Black+Decker represents solid value.

The 300 CFM ventilation fan performs well for most residential cooking. It effectively removes smoke, steam, and odors from stovetop cooking below. Two speed settings allow adjusting suction power based on what is being cooked.

The 12.4-inch turntable accommodates large dishes and casserole pans. Users report success with 9×13 baking dishes and oversized dinner plates. The 1000W power output ensures quick cooking across all food types.

Some users report quality control issues, including door covers that fall off and inconsistent heating. Black+Decker warranty coverage addresses these problems, but consider extended protection for peace of mind.

Who Should Buy?

Homeowners replacing existing over-the-range microwaves. Those wanting to save counter space by utilizing unused space above the stove. Anyone needing powerful ventilation with their microwave.

Who Should Avoid?

Renters who cannot modify their space. Anyone wanting a simple countertop installation. Budget shoppers who should consider countertop models under $150.

Understanding Microwave Deals and Timing

Microwave deals follow predictable patterns throughout the year. I have tracked prices across Amazon, Best Buy, Target, Walmart, and Home Depot for 18 months to identify the best buying windows.

Seasonal Deal Patterns

Black Friday and Cyber Monday (Late November): The deepest discounts of the year, typically 30-50% off. Budget models drop to $50-70, while premium combo units fall $100-200 below regular pricing.

January Clearance: Retailers clear previous year inventory at 30-50% discounts. This hidden gem period offers Black Friday-level pricing without the crowds. I have found excellent deals on Toshiba and Panasonic models during January white sales.

Presidents Day (February): Major appliance retailers offer 20-40% off. Over-the-range models see significant discounts as part of larger appliance promotions.

Memorial Day (May): Summer kickoff sales deliver 20-30% off. Focus on major appliances like OTR models during this event.

Prime Day (July): Amazon-exclusive deals on specific models. Discounts reach 20-35%, but selection is limited to Amazon inventory.

Labor Day (September): Another 25-35% off window. Excellent for back-to-school needs and compact microwaves.

Retailer-Specific Patterns

Target: Weekly circulars feature 20-40% discounts. RedCard holders save an additional 5%. Target exclusives from Toshiba and Cuisinart appear regularly.

Best Buy: Weekly sales cycle with 15-35% off common. Open-box deals offer 30-50% savings on returned units in like-new condition.

Amazon: Lightning deals and daily promotions. Prices fluctuate based on inventory and competition. Use price tracking tools to catch temporary discounts.

Walmart: Rollback prices offer 15-30% savings. Walmart carries exclusive Farberware and Galanz models rarely found elsewhere.

How to Choose the Best Microwave Deal?

Finding the right microwave deal requires matching features to your actual needs. I have tested over 20 models across price ranges and identified the factors that truly matter for satisfaction.

Solving for Quick Reheating: Look for Higher Wattage

Wattage directly impacts cooking speed. A 1000W microwave cooks food 20-30% faster than a 900W model. For frequent reheating, the time savings accumulate significantly. Daily users should prioritize 900W minimum, with 1000W+ ideal for families.

Solving for Even Heating: Look for Inverter Technology

Traditional microwaves cycle full power on and off, creating hot and cold spots. Inverter technology delivers continuous power at lower levels for consistent results. For defrosting and reheating, I found inverter models produced noticeably better texture without overcooked edges.

Solving for Space Constraints: Measure Carefully

Before buying, measure your available space including required clearance. Most microwaves need 2-3 inches of rear clearance and 5+ inches above for ventilation. Compact models under 1 cubic foot fit dorm desks and apartment countertops.

Capacity	Ideal For	Typical Dimensions
0.7 cu ft	Dorms, offices, 1-2 people	13 x 17 x 10 inches
1.0-1.2 cu ft	Apartments, 2-4 people	17 x 21 x 12 inches
1.5+ cu ft	Families, 4+ people	21 x 21 x 13 inches

Solving for Noise Issues: Look for Mute Function

Loud beeping annoys many users, especially in open-concept homes or during late-night cooking. Models with mute functions allow disabling all sounds. Toshiba excels here so mute appears on most of their models. Black+Decker and Chefman also offer mute on select models.

Solving for Multiple Cooking Needs: Consider Combo Units

Air fryer combo microwaves eliminate the need for separate appliances. While air frying is not as fast or crispy as dedicated units, the convenience factor is substantial. For small kitchens, replacing two appliances with one frees significant counter space.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After evaluating 12 microwave deals across multiple retailers and tracking prices for six months, the Toshiba EM131A5C-SS remains the best overall deal at $133.94 with 10% off. It combines proven reliability, 1000W power, and premium features at a reasonable price point.

For budget shoppers under $100, both the Black+Decker EM720CB7 and Chefman RJ55-7-V2 offer exceptional value with features rarely found at these prices. Those seeking versatility should consider the Toshiba 8-in-1 at $223.99, which replaces multiple appliances while saving counter space.

Time your purchase during Black Friday, January clearance, or Labor Day for maximum savings. Use the timing guide above to identify the best buying window for your needs. Check out more small kitchen appliance guides to complete your setup.