I had the exact same thoughts, that this might be centric to the US. I also never seen a popcorn button and popcorn for the microwave exists and is fairly easy. Not as good as from a popcorn machine, but still ok.
I also don't know anyone using an Instant Pot.
And so far I also don't know anyone whose microwave broke after just one year, no matter if cheap or expensive.
The irony of some US based kid, who's literally been the biggest benefactor of capitalism his/her whole life, coming up with this line of argument isn't lost on me.
The first time I've personally even seen a microwave was around 1992-93, because communism.
I also don't know anyone using an Instant Pot.
And so far I also don't know anyone whose microwave broke after just one year, no matter if cheap or expensive.