A low-cost microwave typically costs $60-$180 for a new countertop model, while over-the-range models usually start near $200 and can exceed $500 installed. The best price depends on capacity, wattage, features, delivery, and whether installation or old-appliance removal is needed.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compact countertop microwave | $60 | $100 | $160 | 0.7-0.9 cu. ft.; basic controls |
| Full-size countertop microwave | $100 | $180 | $300 | 1.1-2.2 cu. ft.; more power and presets |
| Over-the-range microwave | $200 | $350 | $600 | Ventilation and installation affect total |
| Built-in microwave | $300 | $650 | $1,500 | Trim kits and cabinet work may be extra |
What a Low-Cost Microwave Usually Costs
For a straightforward kitchen purchase, budget $60-$160 for a compact countertop microwave and $100-$300 for a larger model. A common budget choice is a 0.9-1.2 cu. ft. unit with 900-1,000 watts, priced around $90-$170. Sales, brand, finish, and local availability can move the checkout price.
For most basic reheating, a countertop model offers the lowest purchase and installation cost. Prices assume a new appliance, standard features, and no cabinet changes. Assumptions: U.S. retail pricing, standard delivery area, no special electrical work.
How Magnetron, Controls, and Delivery Shape the Price
Retail prices reflect the appliance, but the final bill can include delivery, installation, and haul-away. The component ranges below are typical; some stores bundle delivery or installation, so the same service should not be counted twice.
| Quote component | Low | Average | High | Typical scope |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Countertop appliance | $60 | $150 | $300 | Basic through larger sensor models |
| Over-the-range appliance | $200 | $350 | $600 | Microwave with vent fan |
| Delivery | $0 | $30 | $80 | Store promotion or local drop-off |
| Installation | $100 | $175 | $300 | Existing compatible mounting and wiring |
| Removal and disposal | $0 | $30 | $60 | Old unit taken away |
Labor matters mainly for mounted or built-in models. A countertop unit normally needs no paid installation; a mounted unit may take 1-3 hours, depending on fit and vent connections.
Which Size and Wattage Push the Price Up?
Capacity and cooking power are practical price drivers. Compact models under 1.0 cu. ft. and 700-900 watts often cost $60-$130; 1.1-1.6 cu. ft. models with 900-1,100 watts commonly cost $100-$250. Units above 1.6 cu. ft. or 1,200 watts can reach $180-$400, especially with sensor cooking or convection.
Measure the counter space and the largest dish before paying for extra capacity. Over-the-range models also vary by width, typically 30 inches, and by venting setup. Recirculating units may fit where exterior ducting is unavailable, while duct changes can add hundreds of dollars.
Countertop Models Versus Over-the-Range Units
A countertop microwave usually costs less because it does not require mounting, cabinet clearance, or vent connections. Expect $60-$300 for the appliance, with optional delivery or haul-away adding roughly $0-$140. It is often the least expensive replacement when a usable counter outlet is available.
Over-the-range models combine cooking and ventilation, generally costing $200-$600 before installation. Replacing a compatible existing unit may bring the installed total to about $350-$900. A new vent route, electrical adjustment, or cabinet modification can raise the project above that range.
Compare installed totals, not appliance prices alone. Built-in models can cost $300-$1,500 before any cabinet work, and a matching trim kit may add $100-$300.
Three Practical Checkout Budgets for Common Kitchens
These examples show how a low advertised price can differ from the total. Actual quotes depend on store policies, local labor, and whether the existing setup is reusable.
| Purchase scenario | Appliance | Added charges | Estimated total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compact countertop, 0.8 cu. ft. | $70-$110 | $0-$40 delivery | $70-$150 |
| Family countertop, 1.6 cu. ft., 1,100 watts | $140-$240 | $0-$60 delivery and removal | $140-$300 |
| 30-inch over-the-range replacement | $250-$450 | $150-$300 install; $0-$60 removal | $400-$810 |
The third example assumes existing mounting and venting are compatible. Ask whether installation includes mounting hardware, testing, and disposal before comparing quotes.
What Delivery, Installation, and Haul-Away Add
Delivery may be free during promotions or cost $30-$80 for a local appliance drop-off. Basic over-the-range installation often runs $100-$300, while built-in installation can cost $200-$500 if trim fitting or cabinet adjustments are involved. Haul-away commonly adds $20-$60, though some retailers include it with delivery.
Confirm the exact service scope in writing. An installer may charge extra for a second trip, inaccessible mounting, missing brackets, new ductwork, or electrical changes. If the quote includes installation, check whether taxes, materials, and old-unit removal are included.
Do Regional Prices and Seasonal Sales Change Much?
Basic countertop prices are broadly similar across the country, but delivery and labor often differ. Major metro areas may run 10%-25% above rural markets for installation, while remote locations can have higher delivery fees. In high-cost coastal cities, installation can exceed national midrange pricing by 15%-30%; competition and local promotions can offset part of that difference.
Discounts are more likely around major holiday sales and appliance promotions, but model availability varies. Compare the same capacity, wattage, and service package across sellers. A low shelf price may not be the lowest total once delivery and installation are added.
How to Keep a Microwave Purchase Under Budget
Choose only the capacity and features that match everyday use. A basic 0.9-1.2 cu. ft. model often costs less than a sensor or convection unit, and simple controls can reduce the price without limiting standard reheating. Check the exterior dimensions, interior capacity, and door swing to avoid returns or fit problems.
Keep the existing setup when it is safe and compatible. Replacing a countertop microwave with another countertop unit avoids installation charges; replacing an over-the-range unit with the same size and vent arrangement can limit extra labor. Compare at least two quotes with the same delivery, removal, and installation terms, and avoid paying for features or cabinet work the kitchen does not require.