Craigslist Microwave (2024)

FAQs

How long do cheap microwaves last? ›

With normal usage for an average family and good maintenance, a microwave often lasts for 7 to 8 years. If the microwave is used less frequently by a single person or a couple and is well-maintained, the lifespan can increase to up to 10 years.

Price: Schiffmann said you should expect to spend between $100 and $150 on a good 800 to 1,000-watt microwave, and a bit more as wattage increases. You'll also pay more for extra features, like convection settings or lots of presets.

Small models start around $60, and midsized models are typically in the $100 to $400 price range. OTR microwaves can be had for under $200, but most we test cost $500 and up.

The first microwave ovens landed in restaurants, ship galleys and canteens in 1946 weighing over 750 pounds, standing almost six feet tall and costing nearly $5,000. The first residential countertop microwaves—like these models from Whirlpool brand—started selling in 1967 for just under $500.

If you've looked after it well, there's no reason why a vintage microwave should be dangerous. However, it is possible that the screen or rubber seals around the door may have perished, allowing some radiation to leak out.

Always Tidy Up. Tidying up is a simple method for extending the life of your microwave. Food and liquid spills can absorb microwave energy and cause burns. Liquid spills can damage the inner metallic surface, reducing its lifespan.

It's smart, powerful and efficient: everything you need from a microwave. The Toshiba 800w 23L Microwave Oven is our top pick when it comes to the best cheap microwave.

As a general guideline, consider choosing a microwave with around 1,000 watts as this is a standard power for most recipes. It's important to be selective about your microwave's functions and choose a model with wattage, shortcuts and functionality suited to how you use a microwave.

In general, the higher the wattage, the faster and more evenly your food will cook. Most microwaves sit somewhere between 600 to 1,200 watts. Larger, more expensive microwaves tend to have a higher wattage, so this is a price and size consideration that can strongly influence microwave cooking performance.

Is a microwave worth fixing? ›

Our survey results suggest that you should consider repairing the broken microwave if it's still under warranty or if it's 5 years old or less, but you'll definitely want to replace it if it's more than 5 years old.

Family size

On average, microwaves range in capacity from 0.7 cu. ft., which is suitable for most dinner plates, to 2.2 cu. ft., which is a better size for bigger cookware. It's important to consider what capacity you need to fit your dishes and suit your cooking needs.

Shop Small Appliances at the End of the Year: The best time to buy small appliances like microwaves and toasters is at the end of the year. Typically stores try to offload excess inventory during big Black Friday and end-of-year sales.

Some microwaves, particularly those from higher-end brands such as Wolf and Viking, tend to last longer, around 10 to 15 years or even more. The lifespan of these microwaves can be further enhanced by repairing them when issues arise.

In 1967, the first Amana home microwave oven, a 110-volt countertop model, sold for $495 (about $3,515 today). It was some 40 centimeters tall, 50 cm wide, and 30 cm deep. This popular version paved the way for the smaller, cheaper microwave ovens in use today.

Some microwaves, particularly those from higher-end brands such as Wolf and Viking, tend to last longer, around 10 to 15 years or even more. The lifespan of these microwaves can be further enhanced by repairing them when issues arise.

In general, the higher the wattage, the faster and more evenly your food will cook. Most microwaves sit somewhere between 600 to 1,200 watts. Larger, more expensive microwaves tend to have a higher wattage, so this is a price and size consideration that can strongly influence microwave cooking performance.

How long does a microwave last? A good microwave will last approximately seven years. Of course, there are many variables to consider that can affect this.

Here's a little known secret: Most cheap microwaves are essentially the same—even the best budget models. That's because many appliance companies hire a less-famous manufacturer to make countertop models for them, then they put their well-known names on the front. That's why you shouldn't pay too much for a microwave.