Microwave vs Electric Stove Burner: Which Costs Less to Run?
For reheating and small portions, the microwave and the stovetop burner compete daily in every kitchen.
Microwave · per month
$1.57
0.25 hours/day · 600–1,500 W
Electric Stove Burner · per month
$8.57
1 hour/day · 1,000–3,000 W
Verdict
The microwave wins for reheating, typically using half to a quarter of the energy — it heats food directly instead of a pan and the air around it. The stove wins on results for anything needing browning, crisping, or precise control. For leftovers and vegetables, microwave first is the frugal default.
Side by side
| Microwave | Electric Stove Burner | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical power | 600–1,500 W | 1,000–3,000 W |
| Typical usage | 0.25 hours/day | 1 hour/day |
| Energy per month | 8.4 kWh | 46 kWh |
| Cost per month (US avg) | $1.57 | $8.57 |
| Cost per year (US avg) | $18.87 | $103 |
| Cost per month in Hawaii | $3.90 | $21.25 |
Rates as of April 2026. Adjust the assumptions on each appliance's page: Microwave · Electric Stove Burner.
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper to run: a microwave or a electric stove burner?
At typical usage and the current U.S. average rate (18.8¢/kWh), the microwave is cheaper: about $1.57/month versus $8.57/month for the electric stove burner — a difference of $7.00 per month.
How much could I save per year by choosing the microwave?
About $84.01 per year at typical usage and average rates. In Hawaii (46.6¢/kWh) the annual gap grows to roughly $208.
Do these numbers apply to my state?
The ratio between the two stays the same everywhere, but the dollar gap scales with your rate — from North Dakota at 12.4¢/kWh to Hawaii at 46.6¢/kWh. Open each appliance's page for the exact cost in your state.