Replacing a broken microwave without blowing your budget can feel like an impossible balancing act. You want a unit that works reliably for daily meals, but brand-new models often come with steep price tags that don’t fit tight household budgets. Refurbished microwaves offer a smart middle ground, but sifting through listings to find a trustworthy, high-performing option can leave even savvy shoppers overwhelmed. This guide cuts through the confusion, walking you through exactly what to look for when shopping for a refurbished microwave. You’ll get access to a detailed comparison table of top-rated picks, plus practical, experience-backed buying tips to help you choose a unit that fits your kitchen space, usage needs, and budget without sacrificing quality or reliability.
Refurbished Microwave at a Glance: Top 10 Review
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Chefman 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black Countertop Microwave |
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BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Stainless Steel Microwave |
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TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu Ft 1000W Stainless Steel Microwave |
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TOSHIBA 0.9 Cu Ft 900W Black Stainless Steel Microwave |
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COMFEE’ 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black ECO Mode Microwave |
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Farberware 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black Countertop Microwave |
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GE 1.6 Cu Ft 1150W Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave |
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Check Price |
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Farberware 1.1 Cu Ft 1000W Stainless Steel Countertop Mic… |
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Chefman 1.1 Cu Ft 1000W Mute Button Countertop Microwave |
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Frigidaire 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Compact Black Countertop Microwave |
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Check Price |
Table of Contents
- 1. Chefman 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black Countertop Microwave
- 2. BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Stainless Steel Microwave
- 3. TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu Ft 1000W Stainless Steel Microwave
- 4. TOSHIBA 0.9 Cu Ft 900W Black Stainless Steel Microwave
- 5. COMFEE’ 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black ECO Mode Microwave
- 6. Farberware 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black Countertop Microwave
- 7. GE 1.6 Cu Ft 1150W Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave
- 8. Farberware 1.1 Cu Ft 1000W Stainless Steel Countertop Mic…
- 9. Chefman 1.1 Cu Ft 1000W Mute Button Countertop Microwave
- 10. Frigidaire 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Compact Black Countertop Microwave
Detailed Review of Top 10 Refurbished Microwave
Refurbished microwave models have surged in popularity in recent years, and for good reason: they deliver the same reliable daily performance as brand-new units at a fraction of the cost, making them ideal for budget-conscious renters, college students, small households, and anyone looking to cut unnecessary home expenses. In this top 10 roundup, we’ve compared the highest-rated refurbished microwave options on the market to help you find the perfect fit for your kitchen, with detailed breakdowns of performance, durability, and value for every pick.
1. Chefman 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black Countertop Microwave
We’ve all been there: tiptoeing to the kitchen late at night to reheat leftovers, only to have the microwave beep loud enough to wake the entire household, or fumble through confusing settings just to warm a cup of soup. The Chefman 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black Countertop Microwave solves that exact frustration with a built-in mute button that silences all alerts, plus one-touch express cook presets that let you heat food in seconds without scrolling through complicated menus. Its compact 0.7 cubic foot footprint fits perfectly on small countertops, making it a great pick for dorms, apartments, or kitchen nooks with limited space.
The 10 adjustable power levels give you precise control over everything from defrosting frozen meat to gently melting chocolate, while the eco mode cuts down on standby power usage to lower your electricity bill over time. The child safety lock is a game-changer for households with curious toddlers, preventing them from accidentally starting the microwave or opening it while it’s hot. Even the one-touch cooking presets for popcorn, pizza, and beverages work exactly as advertised, taking the guesswork out of common heating tasks.
- Built-in mute button for quiet operation
- One-touch express cook presets for common foods
- 10 adjustable power levels for precise cooking control
- Eco mode reduces standby power consumption
- Child safety lock prevents accidental use by kids
- Compact 0.7 cu ft footprint fits small spaces
- Affordable price point for budget buyers
- 700W wattage leads to longer heating times for large or dense portions
- Small interior cavity can’t fit oversized dinner plates or casserole dishes
Get the Chefman 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black Countertop Microwave now:
2. BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Stainless Steel Microwave
The BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Stainless Steel Microwave is perfectly suited for renters, dorm students, and anyone with a compact kitchen who needs a no-fuss, reliable microwave without extra bells and whistles. Its sleek stainless steel exterior not only looks polished in any kitchen decor, but also resists fingerprints and smudges far better than matte black finishes, so it stays looking clean with minimal wiping. The 0.7 cubic foot interior is just large enough for standard dinner plates, microwave-safe bowls, and small frozen meals, making it a practical pick for singles or couples who don’t need to heat large family-sized portions.
With 10 power levels and basic preset functions for popcorn, beverages, and frozen vegetables, it handles all the most common heating tasks without overwhelming you with complicated settings. The 700W motor is consistent and even, so you won’t end up with cold spots in your food or burnt edges on frozen snacks. It also includes a child safety lock and a simple, intuitive control panel that’s easy for anyone to use, even if you’re not tech-savvy.
- Sleek fingerprint-resistant stainless steel exterior
- Compact 0.7 cu ft size fits small countertops
- 10 power levels for versatile heating control
- Basic presets for common foods simplify use
- Consistent 700W heating with no cold spots
- Child safety lock for household safety
- Affordable price for budget-conscious buyers
- No mute button for quiet operation
- Lacks advanced features like eco mode or sensor cooking
Get the BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Stainless Steel Microwave now:
3. TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu Ft 1000W Stainless Steel Microwave
The biggest standout feature of the TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu Ft 1000W Stainless Steel Microwave is its powerful 1000W motor, which heats food faster and more evenly than standard 700W countertop models, cutting down on wait times for busy households. This extra power pairs perfectly with its spacious 1.2 cubic foot interior, which can fit large dinner plates, casserole dishes, and even full-sized frozen pizzas without you having to rotate or rearrange items mid-heating. The sleek stainless steel finish blends seamlessly with modern kitchen appliances, and the smudge-resistant surface stays looking clean even with daily use.
It comes equipped with 10 power levels and sensor cooking technology that automatically adjusts heat and time based on the moisture content of your food, so you never have to guess how long to heat leftovers or defrost meat. The one-touch presets for popcorn, potatoes, and beverages work flawlessly, taking the hassle out of common cooking tasks. The large, easy-to-read LED display and intuitive control panel make it simple for anyone in the family to operate, even kids who are learning to use kitchen appliances.
- Powerful 1000W motor heats food faster and more evenly
- Spacious 1.2 cu ft interior fits large dishes and plates
- Sensor cooking automatically adjusts heat for perfect results
- One-touch presets for common foods simplify use
- Smudge-resistant stainless steel exterior stays clean
- 10 power levels for precise cooking control
- Large LED display is easy to read from a distance
- Larger footprint takes up more counter space than compact models
- Higher price point than basic 700W countertop microwaves
Get the TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu Ft 1000W Stainless Steel Microwave now:
4. TOSHIBA 0.9 Cu Ft 900W Black Stainless Steel Microwave
One of the most common annoyances with standard countertop microwaves is the loud, unadjustable beeping that echoes through open-plan homes, or the bright LED display that glows all night and disrupts sleep. The TOSHIBA 0.9 Cu Ft 900W Black Stainless Steel Microwave eliminates that frustration with a fully mute function that silences all alerts, plus a dimmable display that can be turned off entirely for dark kitchens or bedrooms. Its 900W motor offers more power than basic 700W models, heating food faster and more evenly without cold spots.
The 0.9 cubic foot interior is a happy medium between compact dorm microwaves and large family-sized models, fitting standard dinner plates, medium casserole dishes, and frozen meal trays with room to spare. It includes sensor cooking technology that automatically adjusts heating time based on food type, so you don’t have to babysit the microwave or constantly check if your food is hot enough. The black stainless steel finish is both stylish and scratch-resistant, holding up well to daily use in busy households.
- Fully mute function silences all loud alerts
- Dimmable display can be turned off for dark spaces
- Powerful 900W motor heats food faster than basic models
- 0.9 cu ft interior fits standard plates and medium dishes
- Sensor cooking automatically adjusts heat for perfect results
- Scratch-resistant black stainless steel finish
- 10 power levels for versatile cooking control
- Slightly higher price than basic 700W compact microwaves
- Control panel has a bit of a learning curve for first-time users
Get the TOSHIBA 0.9 Cu Ft 900W Black Stainless Steel Microwave now: (See Also:Led Microwave Bulb)
5. COMFEE’ 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black ECO Mode Microwave
Imagine a college student coming back to their dorm room after a late night study session, wanting to heat up a cup of ramen or a leftover slice of pizza without waking their roommate, all while keeping their electricity bill as low as possible. The COMFEE’ 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black ECO Mode Microwave is built exactly for that kind of real-world use, with a compact footprint that fits on even the smallest dorm desks, a mute button that keeps noise to a minimum, and an eco mode that cuts standby power to save energy. Its simple, intuitive control panel has one-touch presets for the most common dorm-friendly foods, so you don’t have to fumble with settings when you’re tired.
The 700W motor is consistent and reliable, heating food evenly without hot or cold spots, which is a must for anyone who doesn’t want to deal with half-frozen ramen or burnt popcorn. The child safety lock is a nice bonus for shared living spaces, preventing accidental starts by curious visitors or younger siblings. Even with its small size, the interior is large enough to fit standard microwave-safe bowls, mugs, and small frozen meals, making it a practical pick for anyone living in a small space.
- Eco mode reduces standby power to lower electricity costs
- Built-in mute button for quiet, roommate-friendly operation
- Compact 0.7 cu ft footprint fits small spaces like dorms
- One-touch presets for common foods simplify use
- Child safety lock for shared living space safety
- Consistent 700W heating with no uneven hot spots
- Affordable price point perfect for budget buyers
- Small interior can’t fit large dinner plates or casserole dishes
- Lacks advanced features like sensor cooking or multiple auto-cook menus
Get the COMFEE’ 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black ECO Mode Microwave now:
6. Farberware 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black Countertop Microwave
For anyone on a tight budget who needs a reliable basic microwave, this Farberware model punches way above its price tag. You get all the essential functions—defrost, auto cook presets, a child safety lock, and an easy-clean interior—without paying for extra bells and whistles you’ll never use. It’s the perfect pick for dorm rooms, small apartments, or as a secondary microwave for a home office where counter space is limited.
In real daily use, the 700-watt power handles everything from reheating last night’s pasta to melting butter for baking and popping small batches of popcorn without annoying cold spots. The auto cook settings take the guesswork out of common tasks, so you don’t have to fiddle with time and power levels for things like baked potatoes or steam-in-bag vegetables. The defrost function works reliably for small cuts of meat and bread, and the child safety lock gives parents peace of mind that kids can’t turn it on accidentally. The compact 0.7 cubic foot footprint fits easily on crowded countertops, and the smooth black exterior wipes down in seconds if spills happen.
- Extremely affordable upfront cost
- Compact footprint fits small spaces
- Includes essential auto cook and defrost settings
- Child safety lock for households with kids
- Easy-clean interior resists food buildup
- Reliable 700W power for basic tasks
- Lower power struggles with large or dense frozen items
- No advanced features like convection or sensor cooking
Get the Farberware 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Black Countertop Microwave now:
7. GE 1.6 Cu Ft 1150W Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave
If you’ve ever stood waiting 3 minutes for a single serving of soup to heat through in a low-watt microwave, this GE model solves that frustration entirely. Its 1150-watt power cooks food faster and more evenly than standard units, so you spend less time waiting and more time eating. The large 1.6 cubic foot interior fits full dinner plates, casserole dishes, and even tall mugs, so you don’t have to split items into multiple batches.
Everyday tasks feel effortless with this microwave: frozen dinners cook in half the time of older models, and the even heat distribution means no more icy centers or scorching edges. The stainless steel exterior resists fingerprints and smudges, so it stays looking sleek even in a busy kitchen, and the smooth interior wipes clean without scrubbing. It’s a great upgrade for families, people who cook for crowds, or anyone tired of underpowered microwaves that leave food half-cold.
- Powerful 1150W output cooks food 30% faster than standard models
- Large 1.6 Cu Ft interior fits full-sized dishes and casseroles
- Stainless steel finish resists fingerprints and smudges
- Even heat distribution eliminates cold spots in reheated food
- Easy-clean interior requires minimal scrubbing
- Spacious turntable accommodates oversized plates
- Higher price point than basic low-watt models
- Larger footprint may not fit very small counter spaces
Get the GE 1.6 Cu Ft 1150W Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave now:
8. Farberware 1.1 Cu Ft 1000W Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave
This Farberware microwave is tailor-made for small households, couples, or anyone who wants a step up from a tiny compact model without sacrificing counter space. The 1.1 cubic foot interior is large enough to fit full dinner plates, medium casserole dishes, and tall travel mugs, so you can reheat leftovers, cook frozen meals, and make popcorn without splitting items into batches. The 1000-watt power delivers faster, more even heating than lower-watt compact units, making everyday tasks quicker and more reliable.
In daily use, the auto cook presets work exactly as advertised for common foods like baked potatoes, pizza, and vegetables, taking the guesswork out of setting time and power levels. The stainless steel exterior looks sleek in modern kitchens, and the easy-clean interior wipes down in seconds after messy spills or splatters. The child safety lock is a thoughtful addition for households with young kids, and the defrost function works well for everything from bread to small cuts of meat, so it’s versatile enough for almost any cooking need.
- 1.1 Cu Ft capacity fits full-sized dishes and casseroles
- 1000W power for fast, even heating
- Auto cook presets for common foods reduce guesswork
- Stainless steel finish matches modern kitchen decor
- Child safety lock for family households
- Reliable defrost function for meat and bread
- Easy-clean interior resists food buildup
- No convection or advanced sensor cooking features
- Slightly louder operation than premium models
Get the Farberware 1.1 Cu Ft 1000W Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave now:
9. Chefman 1.1 Cu Ft 1000W Mute Button Countertop Microwave
The first thing that sets this Chefman microwave apart from almost every other model in its price range is the built-in mute button, which silences all beeps and alerts for late-night snacks or shared office spaces where noise is a problem. That small, thoughtful feature alone makes it a top pick for anyone who’s ever annoyed by loud microwave dings during a movie night or early morning breakfast when others are sleeping. (See Also:Microwave Steam Steriliser Bags)
Beyond the mute function, it packs all the features you’d expect from a mid-range unit: 1000 watts of power for fast, even heating, 10 adjustable power levels for delicate tasks like thawing butter or melting chocolate, and 6 one-touch cook presets for popcorn, pizza, and frozen meals. The eco mode automatically cuts power to the display when not in use to save energy, and the child safety lock keeps curious kids from operating it unsupervised. The 1.1 cubic foot interior fits standard dinner plates and medium casseroles, making it versatile enough for singles, couples, or small families.
- Built-in mute button eliminates loud beeping alerts
- Eco mode reduces energy use when not in operation
- 10 power levels for precise cooking of delicate foods
- 6 one-touch cook presets for common meals
- 1000W power for fast, even heating
- Child safety lock for family use
- 1.1 Cu Ft interior fits standard dishes
- Interior light is slightly dimmer than premium models
- Turntable can be noisy during high-power cooking
Get the Chefman 1.1 Cu Ft 1000W Mute Button Countertop Microwave now:
10. Frigidaire 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Compact Black Countertop Microwave
If you’ve ever bought a cheap compact microwave only to have it feel flimsy, have a door that sticks, or die after a year of light use, this Frigidaire model is a refreshing change. Unlike many no-frills small microwaves that cut corners on build quality to hit a low price point, this unit feels solid and well-constructed, with a smooth-operating door and durable controls that hold up to daily use.
It’s designed specifically for small spaces like dorm rooms, studio apartments, RVs, or office break rooms, where a full-size microwave would take up too much counter real estate. The 700-watt power handles all basic tasks—reheating leftovers, making popcorn, melting butter, and defrosting small items—without the cold spots or uneven cooking common in ultra-cheap compact models. The easy-clean interior wipes down in seconds, and the child safety lock is a nice bonus for shared spaces or households with young kids.
- Solid, durable build that outlasts flimsy compact competitors
- Ultra-compact 0.7 Cu Ft footprint fits tiny spaces
- Reliable 700W power for basic reheating and cooking tasks
- Smooth door operation with no sticking or misalignment
- Easy-clean interior resists food and stain buildup
- Child safety lock for shared or family spaces
- Affordable price for a reputable brand name
- Lower power struggles with large or dense frozen items
- No advanced features like auto cook presets or sensor cooking
Get the Frigidaire 0.7 Cu Ft 700W Compact Black Countertop Microwave now:
Ultimate Buying Guide for Refurbished Microwave
1. What Is a refurbished microwave?
A refurbished microwave is a previously owned, returned, or display unit that has been professionally inspected, repaired if needed, and tested to work like new. Most come with a limited warranty to cover defects, and they cost significantly less than brand-new models. They’re ideal for budget-conscious shoppers, environmentally aware buyers who want to reduce electronic waste, renters who don’t want to invest in a long-term appliance, and anyone needing a quick replacement for a broken unit. Many have only minor cosmetic wear that doesn’t impact performance, making them a practical, low-cost option for most households.
2. Key Features That Actually Matter
When shopping for a refurbished microwave, skip flashy, rarely used features and focus on traits that impact daily use and long-term satisfaction. The right features will make your unit reliable, easy to use, and a good fit for your kitchen.
- Performance in everyday scenarios: Look for units with consistent power output that heats food evenly and matches your cooking needs, whether you only reheat leftovers or prepare full meals regularly.
- Build quality and durability: Check for wear on the interior, door latch, and control panel, and opt for units with sturdy construction that will hold up to repeated daily use without breaking down prematurely.
- Ease of setup and maintenance: Choose models with intuitive controls, easy-to-clean interior surfaces, and installation requirements that don’t need professional help to get up and running quickly.
- Size, capacity, and fit: Measure your available kitchen space first, and pick a unit with a capacity that matches your household size, from compact models for one person to larger units for families.
- Value at different budgets: Refurbished microwaves range from under $50 for basic models to over $200 for premium units, so set a clear budget beforehand and prioritize the best performance for your price point.
- Brand reliability and warranty: Stick to trusted brands with a track record of durable appliances, and only buy units that come with at least a 90-day limited warranty to protect against defects.
- Compatibility with existing setups: Confirm the unit’s power requirements match your kitchen’s outlets, and check that its dimensions work with your layout if you plan to mount it under a cabinet.
3. How to Choose the Right refurbished microwave
Start by assessing your daily usage: if you only reheat drinks and leftovers a few times a week, a basic, budget-friendly model will meet all your needs. If you regularly defrost meat, cook full meals, or use sensor cooking features, prioritize a mid-range or premium unit with higher power and extra functions. Set a firm budget ahead of time, then cross-reference your needs and priorities with the picks in our top 10 list to narrow down options that fit your lifestyle, whether you value maximum durability, compact size, or extra cooking versatility.
4. Common Buyer Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the warranty check: Many refurbished units are sold “as-is” with no defect protection, leaving you on the hook for costly repairs if the unit breaks shortly after purchase. Always confirm the seller offers at least a 90-day warranty before buying.
- Ignoring size and fit requirements: A microwave that’s too large for your counter space or too small to fit your usual plates will cause constant frustration. Measure your available space and test your largest dish to make sure the unit will work in your kitchen.
- Prioritizing price over quality: The cheapest available refurbished microwave may have hidden wear, inconsistent performance, or no warranty, leading to a shorter lifespan and more hassle long-term. Stick to reputable sellers and prioritize units with good reviews even if they cost a little more upfront.
- Skipping functionality testing: Some refurbished units may have broken buttons, a faulty door latch, or uneven heating that isn’t obvious from listing photos. Ask for a video of the unit in use, or test all functions in person if buying locally, to confirm everything works before purchasing.
- Overlooking power requirements: Some high-wattage refurbished microwaves may require a dedicated outlet that your kitchen doesn’t have, leading to tripped breakers or hazards. Check the unit’s power specs against your kitchen’s outlet setup before buying.
Common Questions About Refurbished Microwave
Are refurbished microwaves safe to use daily?
Yes, as long as you buy from a reputable seller that tests and certifies the unit. Refurbished microwaves are inspected for safety, repaired if needed, and tested to meet the same performance standards as new models, so they’re perfectly safe for daily cooking and reheating. (See Also:Sensor Motion Microwave)
Do most refurbished microwaves come with warranties?
Most reputable sellers offer at least a 90-day limited warranty on refurbished microwaves, covering defects and malfunctions that occur during normal use. Some may offer longer warranty periods for an extra fee, so always check the warranty terms before purchasing to make sure you’re protected.
Will a refurbished microwave work with my kitchen setup?
As long as you check the unit’s dimensions, power requirements, and mounting options before buying, a refurbished microwave will work just like a new one. Make sure to measure your available counter or cabinet space, and confirm your kitchen’s outlet can handle the unit’s wattage to avoid compatibility issues.
How do I know a refurbished microwave is high quality?
Buy from sellers that provide detailed condition reports, photos of any cosmetic wear, and proof of testing. Stick to trusted brands, read reviews from other buyers, and confirm the unit has a warranty to ensure you’re getting a high-quality, reliable product that will last for years.
Are refurbished microwaves worth the cost savings?
For most shoppers, yes. Refurbished microwaves cost 30-70% less than new models, and when bought from a reputable seller with a warranty, they offer the same performance and reliability as new units for a fraction of the price, making them an excellent value for budget-conscious households.
Can I return a refurbished microwave if it doesn’t work?
Most sellers offer a return window for refurbished microwaves, typically 7-30 days, if the unit arrives damaged or doesn’t work as described. Always check the seller’s return policy before purchasing, and keep all original packaging and documentation in case you need to make a return.
Final Verdict
Refurbished microwaves are a smart, budget-friendly choice for almost any household, offering the same reliable performance as new models at a fraction of the cost. By prioritizing quality, warranty coverage, and the right features for your needs, you can find a unit that fits your kitchen and budget without sacrificing performance. Use the tips and top 10 picks in this guide to make a confident, informed purchase that will serve you well for years to come.