The best second hand microwave oven offers a budget-friendly and eco-conscious way to add essential kitchen functionality without the premium price tag. Ideal for students, small apartments, or anyone seeking value, these appliances provide convenience for daily reheating and cooking tasks. However, variations in condition, features, and residual lifespan mean a poor selection can lead to disappointment and wasted resources.
Factors like capacity, power output, and the presence of specific cooking modes can significantly impact user experience. Choosing the right pre-owned microwave involves understanding these differences to ensure optimal performance and durability.
Continue reading to explore our curated selection of the top second hand microwave ovens available, making your decision easier and more informed, and don’t miss out on these surprisingly capable units for 2026.
When seeking the best second hand microwave oven, prioritize models offering consistent power and user-friendly features, such as the 1000-watt output of the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS or the 1200-watt Smart Inverter technology found in the LG Countertop Microwave. Look for ample interior capacity, like the 2.0 cubic feet of the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, and convenient presets for common foods.
Best Second Hand Microwave Ovens: At a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4″ Removable Best for: Spacious interiors | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | GE Countertop Microwave Oven,1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8 Best for: Large families | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In with Inverter Technology Best for: Advanced heating | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1,150-watt Capacity, 1.6 Cubic Ft., 8 Best for: Standard kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and 13.6″ Best for: Smart cooking | Check Price |
How We Picked
To determine the best second hand microwave oven, we prioritized real-world performance, focusing on consistent heating and user-friendliness. We evaluated build quality and durability by examining features like robust interior materials and reliable turntable mechanisms, exemplified by models like the Panasonic NN-SN686S with its Inverter Technology. Safety was paramount, leading us to favor units with features like GE’s two-step child lock.
Standout features such as Toshiba’s sensor menus and LG’s Smart Inverter technology also influenced our choices, ensuring excellent value and longevity.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Wattage vs. Cooking Speed Reality
When looking at a pre-owned microwave, don’t just focus on the advertised wattage. While higher wattage (like the 1200W on the Panasonic NN-SN686S or LG Countertop Microwave) generally means faster cooking, the interior cavity size and build quality also play a huge role. A higher wattage in a poorly designed unit might lead to uneven cooking, even if it’s technically more powerful than a smaller, more efficiently designed 1000W model like the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS.
Turntable Size Matters for Reheating
A critical, often overlooked, detail for a second-hand microwave is the turntable diameter. You’ll want to ensure it’s large enough for your common dishes. A 12.4-inch turntable, like the one in the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS, is standard, but if you frequently reheat large dinner plates or multiple smaller items, consider models with larger capacities.
The GE 1200-watt model, boasting 2.0 cubic feet, likely accommodates a larger turntable, crucial for efficient reheating without stopping and rearranging.
1. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4″ Removable
Best for: Optimal cooking with humidity sensor.
1000-watt Toshiba microwave features Smart Sensor Technology, which automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals without guesswork. Its 1.2 cu. ft. interior fits a 12.4-inch removable glass turntable, making it ideal for a variety of dishes.
With external dimensions of 20.6 x 14.6 x 11.8 inches, this unit offers ample internal space (13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches) for family-sized portions. It includes 10 power levels and 6 preset menus for quick meal preparation.
Pros
- 1000 watts for quick cooking
- Smart Sensor Technology for precise heating
- 1.2 cu. ft. capacity fits most meals
- 12.4-inch turntable rotates evenly
Cons
- ECO+Mute option may not be used by all
This microwave is well-suited for busy households needing consistent results. Prepare everyday meals with confidence using its intelligent sensor features.
2. GE Countertop Microwave Oven,1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8
Best for: Generous capacity with child lock.
The GE 2.0 cubic foot microwave delivers a powerful 1200 watts for efficient cooking and reheating, significantly reducing meal preparation time. Its substantial interior volume easily accommodates large dishes and family-sized portions.
This appliance measures compactly despite its large capacity, allowing it to fit on most countertops without sacrificing space. It includes a rotatable glass turntable for even cooking and features Weight and Time Defrost for simplified thawing.
Pros
- 2.0 cu. ft. capacity for large meals
- 1200 watts for fast cooking
- Sensor cooking controls ensure optimal results
- Two-step child lock for safety
Cons
- Control panel is buttons, not touchscreen
Perfect for families that prepare larger meals or need to reheat multiple items at once. The generous capacity and powerful wattage make it a practical choice for busy kitchens.
3. Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S Stainless Steel Countertop/Built-In with Inverter Technology
Best for: Even heating with inverter technology.
Panasonic’s 1200-watt microwave stands out with its patented Inverter Technology, which generates a seamless stream of power for consistently even cooking and delicious flavor without overcooking. Its 1.2 cubic foot stainless steel interior offers ample space for most culinary tasks.
This model operates at 2450 MHz and features a 340mm turntable diameter, ensuring broad heat distribution for all your food. Advanced Inverter Turbo Defrost simplifies the thawing process for a variety of ingredients.
Pros
- 1200 watts for efficient heating
- Consistent heat with Inverter Technology
- 1.2 cu. ft. capacity for various dishes
- 340mm turntable for even cooking
Cons
- Not compatible with smart home systems
Ideal for those who prioritize even cooking and sophisticated defrosting. This microwave enhances meal preparation with its advanced inverter system.
4. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1,150-watt Capacity, 1.6 Cubic Ft., 8
Best for: Good balance of size and power.
This GE 1.6 cubic foot countertop microwave provides 1150 watts of cooking power for efficient meal preparation and quick reheating. The larger interior capacity easily fits family-size dishes and your favorite baking pans.
With external dimensions designed for countertop placement, it offers substantial internal volume for versatile use. The appliance includes a rotatable glass turntable for optimal heat distribution across all food items.
Pros
- 1.6 cu. ft. capacity for ample food
- 1150 watts for effective cooking
- Sensor cooking controls simplify operation
- 10 power levels for precise control
Cons
- No digital display for clock or timer ease
Suitable for households needing a balance of capacity and cooking speed. This GE microwave efficiently handles everyday cooking and reheating needs.
5. TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and 13.6″
Best for: Family-size capacity with sensor menus.
Toshiba’s 1200-watt countertop microwave boasts a 1.6 cu. ft. capacity, perfect for family-sized meals, and features a 13.6-inch turntable that can accommodate a 13-inch pizza. Sensor menus optimize heating for popular foods like pizza, potato, and vegetables.
This appliance offers 10 power levels for precise cooking control, alongside specialized functions like a one-touch popcorn button. The innovative position-memory turntable conveniently resets to its initial position after use.
Pros
- 1.6 cu. ft. capacity fits large items
- 1200 watts for powerful cooking
- Sensor menus for popular foods
- 13.6-inch turntable for large pizzas
Cons
- Humidity sensor may require adjustment for some foods
This microwave is a great choice for families or those who frequently heat larger dishes. The combination of large capacity and sensor cooking makes meal prep straightforward.
6. BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child
Best for: Convenient presets and safety lock.
The BLACK+DECKER 1000-Watt microwave provides 10 power settings and 6 pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, and more, simplifying meal preparation. Its large LED digital display and easy-to-read control panel enhance user experience.
This model includes a removable 12.4-inch glass turntable for even cooking and easy cleaning. A child safety lock adds an essential layer of security, while the 30-second express cooking feature is ideal for quick additions.
Pros
- 1000 watts for efficient heating
- 6 convenient pre-programmed buttons
- 12.4-inch removable turntable
- Child safety lock for added security
Cons
- Push-button door release is manual
This microwave is suitable for individuals or small families looking for straightforward operation and quick meal solutions. The convenient presets are a time-saver for common foods.
7. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.4 Cubic Ft., 1,100-watt Capacity, 7
Best for: Spacious with quick cook options.
With 1100 watts of power and a 1.4 cubic foot capacity, this GE microwave efficiently heats large dishes and family-sized portions. The Express Cook feature offers instant-on cooking for 1 to 6 minutes with a single touch.
This appliance is designed for countertop convenience, offering ample internal space for versatile use. It includes a rotatable glass turntable to ensure even heat distribution across all cooked food items.
Pros
- 1.4 cu. ft. capacity for large meals
- 1100 watts for quick cooking
- Sensor cooking controls for optimal results
- Express Cook buttons for instant start
Cons
- Button controls instead of a touchscreen
A strong option for households needing a moderately sized microwave with fast cooking capabilities. The express cook feature is ideal for busy individuals.
8. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.9 Cubic Ft., 900-watt Capacity,
Best for: Compact space-saver with good power.
This GE 0.9 cu. ft. microwave offers 900 watts of cooking power, providing efficient heating for everyday tasks without consuming excessive counter space. Its compact exterior design makes it suitable for smaller kitchens or as a secondary appliance.
Despite its smaller footprint, the interior accommodates a rotating glass turntable for optimal cooking performance across your meals. The simple, one-touch controls are easy to navigate for quick selections.
Pros
- 0.9 cu. ft. capacity is counter-friendly
- 900 watts for sufficient heating
- Compact exterior fits small spaces
- Easy one-touch controls
Cons
- Smaller capacity limits large dish reheating
This microwave is perfect for dorm rooms, small apartments, or office spaces where counter real estate is at a premium. It provides ample power for single servings and quick snacks.
9. BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety
Best for: Versatile presets in a compact size.
The BLACK+DECKER 900-Watt microwave features 10 power settings and convenient pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, and more, simplifying common cooking tasks. Its compact 18.7-inch width fits easily on most countertops.
This model includes a removable 10.6-inch glass turntable for even cooking and easy cleaning. A child safety lock provides an added layer of security, while the 30-second express cooking feature offers quick reheating options.
Pros
- 900 watts for efficient heating
- 10 power levels for control
- Compact dimensions for small spaces
- Child safety lock included
Cons
- Turntable size is smaller at 10.6 inches
This compact microwave is a practical choice for single individuals or small households needing reliable performance and convenient presets. Its space-saving design is ideal for limited kitchen areas.
10. LG Countertop Microwave, 1.5 cu. ft., Stainless Steel, 21.44″x12.13″x16.19″, Smart
Best for: Smart inverter for even cooking.
LG’s 1.5 cu. ft. stainless steel microwave features Smart Inverter technology for precise cooking power control and exceptionally even heating throughout your food. It delivers a robust 1200 watts, ideal for family-sized meals and rapid reheating.
Equipped with 7 sensor cook options including Bacon, Vegetable, and Oatmeal, this appliance ensures perfect results for specific foods. The spacious interior and 1200 watts streamline meal preparation and reheating.
Pros
- 1.5 cu. ft. capacity for large meals
- 1200 watts for efficient cooking
- Smart Inverter ensures even heating
- 7 Sensor Cook options for precision
Cons
- Touchscreen interface may require a learning curve
This LG microwave is perfect for families or anyone who values precise, even cooking with smart technology. The generous capacity and advanced features simplify reheating and meal preparation.
Power vs. Capacity: The Real Trade-Off
When evaluating pre-owned microwave ovens, the wattage and internal volume aren’t merely numbers; they dictate the entire functional experience of reheating and cooking.
For instance, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS boasts a robust 1000 watts, an output that translates to faster, more even heating, particularly beneficial for dense foods or when you’re in a hurry. This higher power is paired with a 1.2 Cu Ft interior, a sensible middle ground that accommodates standard dinner plates and bowls efficiently. Conversely, the GE Countertop Microwave Oven with 1,200-watt capacity offers an impressive 2.0 Cubic Ft.
of space, ideal for larger meals or multiple items. However, achieving the same level of uniform heat distribution in that larger cavity might require slightly longer cooking times compared to a more powerful, smaller unit, or you might find the external footprint significantly larger, demanding more counter space.
The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S, with its 1200 Watt Inverter Technology and 1.2 cubic foot capacity, presents a compelling argument for intelligent power delivery. Inverter technology, unlike traditional microwaves, delivers a continuous stream of power rather than cycling on and off, leading to more consistent results and better texture retention, especially for delicate foods. This approach can often make its 1200 watts feel more potent and efficient than a similarly rated microwave without this feature.
Yet, the sheer cavernousness of the 2.0 Cu. Ft.
GE option, while less power-dense per iteration, offers a practical advantage solely based on its ability to physically contain larger dishes, bypassing the need for multiple reheating cycles.
Ultimately, the choice between a high-wattage, moderate-capacity model like the TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) with its 1200-watt output and sensor menus, or a larger-volume, slightly less powerful option such as the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.4 Cubic Ft., 1,100-watt Capacity, hinges on how you prioritize speed and effectiveness against raw physical space. For most single users or couples seeking immediate results for standard meals, the 1000-1200 watt range in a 1.2-1.5 cu ft. frame adequately serves the purpose of a functional best second hand microwave oven.
Those prioritizing the ability to heat larger quantities or cook more elaborate dishes in one go, even if it takes a minute or two longer, should lean towards the expansive interiors of models like the 2.0 Cubic Ft. GE. For efficiency and faster reheating of everyday portions, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS makes a strong case.
What to Look For in a Best Second Hand Microwave Oven
Wattage and heating power
For efficient cooking, aim for a microwave with at least 900 watts. This power level ensures rapid reheating of leftovers and prompt cooking of frozen meals. Lower wattages, around 700, will take noticeably longer to heat food evenly.
For defrosting, a lower setting is often more effective, but the primary wattage dictates overall speed. Choose 1000 watts or higher for the quickest heating and most versatile performance, especially if you frequently cook from scratch or need to defrost large items.
Capacity and interior space
When selecting a second-hand microwave, prioritize interior capacity based on your typical meal size. A standard 10-inch turntable easily accommodates individual portions or smaller dishes. For families or those who prepare larger meals, look for models with 1.2 cubic feet of space or more, which will accommodate casseroles and multiple items.
The larger cubic foot measurement reliably indicates its ability to handle family-sized portions. Always opt for the largest capacity that reasonably fits your kitchen space to avoid regret.
Essential features
Focus on essential features that simplify your cooking routine. Preset functions are genuinely useful for common tasks like popcorn or defrosting, saving you the guesswork. Ensure the digital timer is crisp and responsive, a sign of good internal electronics.
Prioritize models with a functioning child safety lock if you have young children. For ease of maintenance, a smooth, non-stick interior coating is a clear indicator of a well-maintained and practical appliance.
These features enhance daily usability.
Condition and durability
Thoroughly inspect a used microwave for physical wear. Minor cosmetic dents are acceptable, but significant rust indicates structural compromise and potential safety issues. Close the door firmly and check for any gaps around the seal; a compromised seal leaks energy and reduces efficiency.
Test every button and display element to confirm they operate correctly, as repairs to these components can be costly. A microwave with solid door closure and fully functional controls is a durable, reliable purchase.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you have a small kitchen or limited counter space, look for a compact model with around 0.9 to 1.2 cubic feet of capacity.
- If you frequently reheat leftovers or cook larger dishes, opt for a mid-size microwave between 1.4 to 1.6 cubic feet with at least 1000 watts of power.
- If you need to cook a variety of food items quickly and evenly, consider a model with inverter technology or sensor cooking menus.
- If you have young children or pets, prioritize a microwave with a child lock feature.
Quick Best Second Hand Microwave Oven Buying Checklist
- Check Wattage Ensure it’s sufficient for your needs (700W+ is typical).
- Inspect Interior Look for significant stains, scratches, or rust.
- Test Controls Verify all buttons, the display, and the timer work.
- Examine Turntable Confirm it spins smoothly and is intact.
- **Listen for Noise** Unusual sounds could indicate mechanical issues.
- Verify Door Seal Ensure the door closes properly and seals tightly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Common Microwave Wattages Found In Second-Hand Models?
Second-hand microwave ovens typically range from 700 to 1200 watts. Lower wattages are adequate for simple reheating, while higher wattages provide faster cooking and better defrosting capabilities. Always check the listed wattage to ensure it meets your cooking needs.
How Can I Assess The Interior Condition Of A Used Microwave?
When assessing a used microwave’s interior, look closely for any signs of rust, deep scratches, or persistent stains that might be hard to clean. A clean interior with minimal wear suggests the appliance has been well-maintained and is likely more durable.
What Are Essential Features To Check On A Second-Hand Microwave?
Key features to verify include a functioning turntable, accurate timer, and all control buttons working correctly. Essential presets for reheating or defrosting should also be tested if possible to ensure versatility and ease of use.
Is It Important To Check The Door Seal On A Used Microwave Oven?
Yes, the door seal is crucial for a used microwave’s safety and efficiency. A tight seal prevents microwave leakage and ensures consistent heating by trapping heat inside. Inspect for any damage or gaps that could compromise performance.
What Capacity Is Generally Best For A Second-Hand Microwave Oven?
The best capacity depends on your typical use, but most second-hand models fall between 0.7 and 1.5 cubic feet. Smaller capacities are fine for single servings, while larger ones are better for family meals or larger dishes requiring more space.
Final Words
Purchasing a second-hand microwave oven is a smart way to gain essential kitchen functionality without a high cost. These appliances remain incredibly versatile for quick meals and reheating. By carefully considering condition and features, you can find a reliable and budget-friendly best second hand microwave oven to serve you well for years to come.
