Amazon Basics Microwave Review

The Amazon Basics Microwave is one of the most popular budget countertop microwaves on the market, with thousands of reviews and a reputation for simplicity. But is it the right choice for your kitchen? Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback, and key decision factors to give you an honest, useful review. We'll cover who it's for, standout features, real-world performance, ease of use, cleaning, value, and how it stacks up against close alternatives.

Design and Build Quality

The Amazon Basics Microwave sports a clean, minimalist design that fits well in most kitchens. It's available in black or stainless steel, though the stainless steel option is a bit more expensive. The exterior is made of plastic with a metallic finish, which looks decent but doesn't feel as premium as higher-end models. The door opens with a simple handle, and the interior is a standard cavity with a 10-inch glass turntable.

At 17.3 inches wide, 10.2 inches high, and 14.1 inches deep, it's compact enough for small counters or dorm rooms. It weighs 23.1 pounds, so it's not too heavy to move around. The build quality is generally solid for the price, but some users report that the door handle feels a bit flimsy over time. The control panel is straightforward: a dial for setting time and a few push buttons for power level and quick start.

Performance: Real-World Heating and Defrosting

With 700 watts of power, the Amazon Basics Microwave is on the lower end of the spectrum. Most full-size microwaves offer 1000 watts or more. This means that heating food takes longer. For example, reheating a plate of leftovers might take 2 to 3 minutes instead of 1.5 minutes on a more powerful unit. However, the turntable helps ensure even heating, so you're less likely to get cold spots.

Defrosting works adequately for small items like ground meat or chicken breasts, but larger cuts may cook at the edges while the center remains frozen. The microwave has 10 power levels, so you can adjust for gentler defrosting. For simple tasks like melting butter or heating a beverage, it performs fine.

One notable limitation is the lack of preset cooking modes. There's no dedicated button for popcorn, potato, or pizza. You have to set the time manually, which can be a bit of trial and error. For a budget microwave, this is expected, but it's worth noting if you rely on presets.

Ease of Use

The controls are incredibly intuitive. The dial lets you set time in increments of seconds, and the push buttons allow you to choose power levels. The quick start button adds 30 seconds with each press, which is handy for short bursts. The digital display is easy to read, though it's not backlit, so it can be hard to see in low light.

One minor annoyance is that the door requires a firm push to close properly. Some users mention that if you don't close it fully, the microwave won't start. But once you get used to it, it's not a big deal. The lack of a child lock might be a concern for families, but for many, it's not a dealbreaker.

Cleaning and Maintenance

The interior is made of a non-stick enamel that wipes clean easily. Spatters and spills come off with a damp cloth. The glass turntable is removable and dishwasher-safe, which is a plus. The exterior also cleans up well with a mild cleaner. The vent grilles are on the back and sides, so make sure to keep them free of dust to maintain performance.

One thing to watch: the interior light is dim, so you might miss spots while cleaning. But overall, the Amazon Basics Microwave is low-maintenance and easy to keep looking good.

Common Buyer Complaints

While the overall rating is high, some buyers have raised a few recurring issues. The most common complaint is the 700-watt power, which leads to longer cooking times. Some users also mention that the door handle feels cheap and may loosen over time. A few have reported that the turntable motor makes a whirring noise, but it's not excessive.

Another point of contention is the lack of a child lock, which is a safety feature many parents expect. Finally, the dim interior light is a minor annoyance for those who like to watch their food while it cooks. These issues are typical for a budget microwave, and they don't detract significantly from the overall value.

How It Compares to Close Alternatives

The Amazon Basics Microwave competes with other budget models like the Toshiba EM131A5C and the Hamilton Beach 0.7 cubic feet microwave. The Toshiba offers 1100 watts, sensor cooking, and a stainless steel interior, but it costs more. The Hamilton Beach is similar in size but often includes more preset functions and a child lock.

If you need more power and features, those alternatives are worth considering. However, if you want the simplest, most affordable microwave that does the basics well, the Amazon Basics is hard to beat. It's also backed by Amazon's customer service, which is a plus for peace of mind.

Value and Final Verdict

At its price point, the Amazon Basics Microwave delivers excellent value. It's not the most powerful or feature-rich microwave, but it covers the essentials: reheating, defrosting, and simple cooking. The ease of use and easy cleaning make it a great choice for students, small households, or as a secondary microwave in an office or dorm.

If you're looking for a no-frills appliance that won't break the bank, this is a solid pick. Just be aware of its limitations and adjust your expectations accordingly. For a more powerful and feature-packed option, you'll need to spend more.