Best Budget
#1
9.8
Best budget pick for small kitchens and occasional use.
10 Best Under 100 Microwaves of 2026
#2
Sharp
Sharp R204BA Solo Microwave, 20L, 800W, 6 Power Levels, Timer from 30 Minutes to 00 Seconds, Black
9.6
Best for buyers who prefer simple, reliable mechanical microwaves.
Best with Grill
#3
Best for users wanting grilling capability without a full oven.
Best Compact
#4
Best for buyers seeking a compact, reliable basic microwave.
#5
9.1
Best for straightforward reheating in small households.
Best Overall
#6
Best for cooks who want microwave plus grilling versatility.
#7
Best for those wanting a larger retro-styled microwave with presets.
Best Overall
#8
Best for buyers seeking a retro look in compact kitchens.
Buying Guide
Capacity and footprint
Check the internal capacity (litres) and the unit’s external size to ensure it fits on your worktop or in a cupboard. For one or two people a 17–20L model is usually fine; families may prefer 23L or above, but larger models often push past the £100 mark.
Power and cooking performance
Wattage affects how quickly and evenly food cooks - most budget microwaves range from 700W to 900W. Aim for 800W+ if you want faster reheating; lower wattages are slower but can be gentler for delicate foods.
Functions and programmes
Basic models will offer power levels and defrost, while some under £100 include auto-cook programmes and a grill function. Decide which features you actually use - a simple, reliable microwave with manual power settings can be better than a feature-rich model with poor performance.
Build quality, reliability and warranty
Look for trusted brands and check reviews for long-term reliability; cheaper models can vary in build quality. A minimum one-year warranty is standard in the UK, but longer guarantees are a useful sign of confidence from the manufacturer.
Running costs and safety
Microwaves are generally economical to run, but check standing power and energy-efficiency comments in reviews. Also ensure it meets UK safety standards, has child-lock options if needed, and that replacement parts (like turntables) are readily available from UK retailers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best microwave under £100 in 2026?
There isn’t a single best model for everyone, but look for an 800–900W, 20–23L unit from a reputable brand (for example Russell Hobbs, Morphy Richards or Tower) sold by UK retailers such as Argos, Currys or Amazon UK. Prioritise build quality, a decent warranty and user reviews from UK buyers when deciding.
Is a microwave under £100 worth buying in the UK?
Yes - budget microwaves can be excellent for reheating, defrosting and simple cooking, especially for students, small households or secondary kitchens. If you need heavy-duty daily cooking or advanced features (convection/grill combined with powerful performance) you may need to spend more.
Which microwave offers the best value for money under £100?
Value usually comes from a balance of power (800W+), sensible capacity (around 20L), solid build and good after-sales support. Models from established UK-sold brands with consistently strong customer reviews tend to represent the best value.
Russell Hobbs vs Morphy Richards - which should I buy?
Both brands make reliable budget microwaves; choose Russell Hobbs if you prefer straightforward designs and familiar auto-programmes, or Morphy Richards if you want compact options with user-friendly controls. Compare specific model features, wattage and warranty before purchasing.
Where should I buy a microwave under £100 in the UK?
Major UK retailers such as Argos, Currys PC World, John Lewis and Amazon UK regularly stock budget microwaves and run promotions. Buying from a recognised retailer gives you clearer returns and warranty handling compared with some third-party sellers.
Are microwaves under £100 safe to use?
Yes, reputable budget microwaves sold in the UK meet safety standards and include features like door interlocks and overheating protection. Always follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions and avoid using damaged cookware or placing metal inside unless the appliance is designed for it.
Can a sub-£100 microwave cook full meals or just reheat?
Most will handle simple cooked meals (pasta, steamed veg, ready meals) and effective reheating; however, they may struggle with even browning or crisping compared with higher-end models that have convection or stronger grill elements. For one-pot family meals you may be fine, but for baking or roasting you’ll want a larger or more capable appliance.
Do cheap microwaves under £100 come with a grill?
Some budget models include a basic grill function, but many do not - and those that do may have a weaker grill element than pricier units. If grilling or browning is important, check the spec sheet to confirm a grill is included and read reviews for real-world performance.
What is the best microwave under £100 for a student flat in 2026?
For a student flat, the best choice is a compact 17–20L model with around 800W power, simple mechanical controls and a child-lock for safety; these are typically offered by Russell Hobbs, Tower or Morphy Richards. Prioritise small footprint and reliable reheating over advanced features.
Is buying a microwave under £100 worth it in 2026?
Yes - under £100 you can still find reliable 800–900W microwaves with sensible capacities and essential functions like defrost and auto-cook, which suit everyday reheating and simple cooking. Check UK customer reviews and warranty terms to avoid models with poor longevity.
Russell Hobbs vs Tower - which microwave should I buy under £100?
Choose Russell Hobbs for slightly more polished design and familiar presets, or Tower if you need the most compact footprint and competitive pricing; both brands offer 20L/800W models with straightforward controls that perform well for reheating and defrosting. Base your choice on dimensions, available power levels and retailer returns policy.
Which microwave under £100 is best value for money in the UK?
The best value tends to be a 20L, ~800W model from an established brand sold through Argos or Currys, offering a one-year warranty and consistently positive UK reviews. Look for units that combine adequate power, a useful turntable size and reliable customer support rather than purely the lowest price.
Product Selection: Products are sourced via Amazon's Product Advertising API based on relevance, availability, and customer ratings.
Review Analysis: We use AI to analyze customer review trends, identify common themes, and summarize the key strengths and weaknesses of each product.
Scoring Independence: Our rankings and fit scores are generated algorithmically and are not influenced by commission rates or advertising relationships.
Affiliate Disclosure: We earn commissions from qualifying Amazon purchases made through our links at no additional cost to you.
Last updated: June 5, 2026
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