So, the old trusty microwave finally bit the dust. One minute it’s reheating last night’s pizza to perfection, the next it’s sitting there, dark and silent. Now you’re faced with a mission: find a replacement. A quick search brings you to two of the biggest names in the game, leading to the ultimate showdown: Home Depot Vs Best Buy Microwaves. As the Microwave King, I’ve spent years navigating the aisles—both physical and virtual—of these retail giants, and I’m here to give you the inside scoop. It’s not just about which store is “better”; it’s about which store is better for you.
Did you know that the first commercial microwave oven was nearly six feet tall and weighed over 750 pounds? Thankfully, we’ve come a long way. Today, choosing a microwave is about navigating a sea of options, and where you buy it can make a huge difference in selection, price, and overall experience. Let’s break down the Home Depot vs Best Buy microwaves debate so you can get back to what matters: enjoying perfectly heated food.
A Head-to-Head Comparison: The Key Differences
Before we dive deep, let’s get a bird’s-eye view. Think of Home Depot as the general contractor of the appliance world, while Best Buy is the tech specialist. This fundamental difference shapes their entire approach to selling microwaves.
| Feature | The Home Depot | Best Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Full kitchen suites, builder-grade models, major brands that match other appliances (GE, Samsung, LG, Whirlpool). | Standalone tech-forward models, a wider variety of countertop units, and exclusive colors or features. |
| Brand Selection | Strong on core American brands and appliance-suite focused brands. You’ll find everything you need for a kitchen remodel. | Excellent selection of major brands plus more niche or tech-centric brands like Insignia (their house brand) and Breville. |
| In-Store Experience | Microwaves are typically part of a larger appliance section, often displayed in mock-kitchen setups. | Dedicated appliance section with a focus on individual features. Staff (Blue Shirts) are often trained on specific tech. |
| Installation Services | A major strength. Excellent, professional installation services for over-the-range and built-in models. | Strong services through their Geek Squad, but Home Depot often has a more streamlined process for complex kitchen installations. |
| Pricing & Sales | Aggressive pricing during major holiday sales events (Memorial Day, Labor Day, Black Friday) focused on appliance bundles. | Frequent “Deal of the Day” promotions and competitive Black Friday pricing, especially on countertop models and smart microwaves. |
Which Retailer Has the Best Microwave Selection?
This is where your specific needs really start to matter. The question isn’t just “who has more microwaves?” but “who has the right microwave for my kitchen?”
For the Kitchen Remodeler: Home Depot
If you’re redoing your entire kitchen or trying to match a new microwave to your existing LG refrigerator or GE stove, Home Depot is often your best first stop. Their inventory is heavily curated to support full kitchen appliance packages.
- Over-the-Range (OTR) Microwaves: This is Home Depot’s wheelhouse. They carry a massive selection of OTR models from all the major players, designed to fit standard cabinet openings. They understand that things like venting (measured in CFM) and matching stainless steel finishes are critical.
- Built-In and Drawer Microwaves: As these become more popular in high-end kitchens, Home Depot has expanded its selection. They are well-equipped to handle the specific requirements these models demand.
- Countertop Models: They have a solid selection of countertop microwaves, but it’s generally focused on the most popular sizes and brands rather than a huge variety of niche options.
For the Tech Enthusiast or Renter: Best Buy
If you’re looking for the latest and greatest features in a standalone unit, or you just need a reliable countertop model for your apartment, Best Buy often has the edge.
- Smart Microwaves: Best Buy leans into the “tech” side of appliances. You’re more likely to find microwaves here that you can control with Alexa or Google Assistant, or models with advanced sensor cooking and air frying capabilities.
- Countertop Variety: Best Buy shines in the countertop category. From small, dorm-room-sized units to large, powerful models with inverter technology for more even cooking, the variety is impressive. You’ll also find a wider range of colors and styles.
- Exclusive Models: They often have exclusive deals with brands like Samsung or LG for specific models or finishes you won’t find anywhere else. Their house brand, Insignia, also offers incredible value for budget-conscious shoppers.
A Microwave King’s Pro Tip: Don’t just look at the brand; look at the wattage. For most families, a microwave with 1000 to 1200 watts is the sweet spot. It offers enough power to cook food quickly and evenly without being overkill.
The Price War: Home Depot vs Best Buy Microwaves
Let’s talk money. Both retailers are competitive, but their strategies differ.
- Holiday Sales: Both go big for major holidays. Home Depot often focuses on “buy more, save more” deals on entire appliance suites. If you’re buying a fridge, range, and microwave, you can find incredible bundle savings there. Best Buy’s holiday sales are fantastic for individual appliances, and they are legendary for their Black Friday doorbusters on countertop models.
- Price Matching: Both have price match policies, but you need to read the fine print. They will typically match the pre-tax price for an identical, in-stock product from a qualifying competitor. Always have the competitor’s ad or webpage ready on your phone!
- Open-Box and Floor Models: This is a hidden gem, especially at Best Buy. They often have “Open-Box” microwaves—units that were returned, often unused—for a significant discount. It’s a fantastic way to get a high-end model for less, as long as you inspect it for any cosmetic damage. Home Depot has a similar program but it can be less common to find microwaves this way.
Beyond the Sale: Installation and Customer Support
Buying the box is only half the battle, especially if you’re getting an over-the-range model.
I remember helping a friend who bought a beautiful OTR microwave but didn’t consider installation. It sat in his garage for three weeks while he tried to find a reliable contractor. This is a headache you can avoid.
- Home Depot’s Installation: They use a network of local, licensed, and insured professionals. The process is generally seamless. You buy the microwave, schedule the installation, and they handle the rest—from removing your old unit to ensuring the new one is perfectly level and vented correctly. This peace of mind is a huge selling point.
- Best Buy’s Geek Squad: The Geek Squad is well-known for tech support and can absolutely handle microwave installations. They are professional and knowledgeable. For a straightforward replacement, they are just as good as Home Depot’s service. The choice often comes down to local availability and scheduling.
John Miller, a kitchen appliance technician with 15 years in the field, often says, “A perfect installation is just as important as the appliance itself. A poorly installed OTR microwave isn’t just an eyesore; it can be a safety hazard if not secured or vented properly.”
The Final Verdict: Where Should You Buy Your Microwave?
After breaking it all down, the winner of the Home Depot vs Best Buy microwaves battle really depends on your personal circumstances.
You should shop at Home Depot if:
- You are buying multiple appliances for a kitchen remodel and want matching brands and finishes.
- You need a new over-the-range or built-in microwave and want a streamlined, professional installation process.
- You are loyal to specific appliance-focused brands like GE, Whirlpool, or KitchenAid.
You should shop at Best Buy if:
- You are looking for a countertop microwave and want the widest possible selection of sizes, features, and price points.
- You are a tech-savvy user who wants the latest smart features, voice controls, or convection/air fry capabilities.
- You are on a budget and are open to looking at house brands (Insignia) or open-box deals.
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Our Picks for the Best Microwave Oven in 2025
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
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| Num | Product | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | COMFEE\' EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black |
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| 2 | Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Countertop Oven and Toaster Oven, Small, Brushed Stainless Steel |
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| 3 | TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, Perfect for Apartment, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Black Stainless Steel |
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| 4 | TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4\" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior Black Color 1000W |
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| 5 | Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - Stainless |
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| 6 | BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, Stainless Steel, 0.9 Cu Ft |
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| 7 | Cooks Innovations Non-Stick Oven Protector Mat - Heavy Duty Nonstick Oven Rack Liners to Protect Convection, Electric, Gas, & Microwave Ovens - BPA & PFOA Free Heat Resistant Baking Mat |
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| 8 | Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. Digital Stainless Steel Microwave 1000 Watts with 6 Auto Menus, 10 Power Levels, Eco Mode, Memory, Mute Function, Child Safety Lock, Easy Clean |
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| 9 | BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft |
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| 10 | Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button - Black |
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Does Best Buy price match Home Depot for microwaves?
A: Yes, in most cases. Best Buy will price match an identical, in-stock microwave from Home Depot. You’ll need to show proof of the lower price at the time of purchase, either in-store or by calling their customer service for an online order.
Q2: Who has a better return policy for kitchen appliances?
A: Both retailers have similar, relatively short return windows for major appliances, often 15 days for Best Buy and 48 hours for Home Depot to report damage or defects upon delivery. Always confirm the current policy before purchasing, as they can change.
Q3: Is the Geek Squad protection plan worth it for a microwave?
A: It can be. For high-end models with complex electronics, like convection or smart microwaves, an extended warranty can provide peace of mind. For a basic, inexpensive countertop model, it’s often more cost-effective to simply replace the unit if it fails after the manufacturer’s warranty expires.
Q4: Can I find the same microwave models at both stores?
A: You will find many of the same flagship models from major brands like Samsung, LG, and Whirlpool at both stores. However, both retailers also carry exclusive models and finishes, so you may not find the exact same unit at both.
Q5: In the Home Depot vs Best Buy microwaves debate, who is better for online shopping?
A: Both have excellent websites with robust filtering options. Best Buy’s site often has more user reviews and Q&A’s, which can be very helpful. Home Depot’s site excels at bundling appliances and scheduling delivery and installation all in one go.
Conclusion
Choosing between Home Depot vs Best Buy microwaves isn’t about finding a single winner. It’s about aligning the retailer’s strengths with your personal needs. By understanding whether your priority is a full kitchen suite, the latest technology, a simple countertop replacement, or a seamless installation, you can make a smart, confident decision. A great microwave is a cornerstone of the modern kitchen, and buying it from the right place sets you up for years of happy reheating, defrosting, and cooking. Now go forth and find the perfect machine for your home! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.