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10 Best Retro Microwave 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts, 1.1 cu ft - Microwave Oven With LED Lighting and Child Lock - Perfect for Apartments and Dorms - Easy Clean Metallic Red

The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a compact yet powerful microwave built to fit in small spaces like apartments and dorms. With 1.1 cubic feet of capacity and 1000 watts of power, it can handle a variety of cooking tasks quickly. It offers ten power levels and six one-touch options like popcorn, potato, and pizza settings, making it versatile and convenient for everyday use.

The LED display with a kitchen timer and clock is user-friendly, and the child safety lock adds an extra layer of security. Its interior and exterior are easy to clean, which is a significant plus for those with busy lifestyles. The metallic red design gives it a stylish retro look, adding a pop of color to any kitchen setup.

However, its compact size might not be suitable for larger families or those who frequently cook large meals. Additionally, while the microwave is powerful, some users may find the control panel a bit less intuitive at first. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Farberware Countertop Microwave stands out as a reliable and stylish option for small households or office kitchens.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Size and Capacity
Compact size but with a surprisingly large heating chamber.
Power (Wattage)
Heats food much faster than older models, cooking a full bowl of popcorn in just 3 minutes.
Control Panel
The sleek front panel is simple to use for most tasks.
Design and Aesthetics
Beautiful style inside and out, performs flawlessly and heats fast.
#2

Nostalgia Retro Countertop Microwave Oven - Large 800-Watt - 0.9 cu ft - 12 Pre-Programmed Cooking Settings - Digital Clock - Kitchen Appliances - Pink

The Nostalgia Retro Countertop Microwave Oven is a stylish addition to any kitchen with its vintage accents and bright pink color. It offers a compact size with a 0.9 cubic feet capacity, making it suitable for small to medium-sized households. The 800-watt power is sufficient for quick cooking and reheating, although it might be less powerful compared to other modern microwaves in the market.

One of its standout features is the 12 pre-programmed cooking settings, which make it easy to prepare common foods like popcorn, pizza, and vegetables with just a turn and push of the dial. The digital clock with an LED display is easy to read and adds to the retro charm of the appliance. Additionally, the unit includes a safety lock feature, which is great for families with children.

However, at 28 pounds, it is relatively heavy for its size, and some users might find it cumbersome to move around. The microwave’s design is clearly intended to evoke nostalgia, and it does an excellent job of blending old-school aesthetics with modern functionality. This microwave is best suited for those who value design and aesthetics as much as functionality and do not require high wattage for their cooking needs.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Size and Capacity
With its charming vintage design and compact size, this microwave is perfect for small office kitchens or personal spaces.
Power (Wattage)
Despite its 700 watts, it heats food efficiently and evenly, making it ideal for quick snacks and reheating meals.
Cooking Functions
The 12 pre-programmed settings make it incredibly easy to use, even for someone who wants minimal effort.
Control Panel
The intuitive big round button and simple rotating dial make adjusting cooking times effortless.
Design and Aesthetics
The Nostalgia Modern Retro Countertop Microwave Oven is not only the best-looking microwave I've ever had, it's the easiest I've ever used.
#3

Nostalgia NRMO7IVY6A Retro Cubic Foot 700-Watt Microwave Oven, 0.7 Cu. Ft, Cream

The Nostalgia NRMO7IVY6A Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven offers a charming vintage design with modern functionality. It has a 0.7 cubic feet capacity, which is on the smaller side but suitable for quick meals and reheating in small households or dorm rooms. With 700 watts of power, it can handle most basic cooking tasks, though it may be slower compared to higher wattage models.

The microwave features 12 pre-programmed cooking settings, a delay timer, and express cooking, making it easy to use for common foods like popcorn and pizza. An LED display with a digital clock provides clear visibility of the cooking settings and time. The rotating glass turntable ensures even cooking, which is essential for preventing cold spots in your food.

The retro design elements, such as the chrome door handle and control panel, add a stylish flair that can enhance your kitchen decor. Its compact size might not be ideal for larger families or those who regularly cook large dishes. While the 700 watts power is adequate, it may not be as efficient as more powerful microwaves. This microwave is a good choice for individuals or small households looking for a functional yet visually appealing appliance.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Size and Capacity
Despite its compact size, it heats food efficiently and evenly with its 700 watts of power.
Power (Wattage)
Despite its compact size, it heats food efficiently and evenly with its 700 watts of power.
Cooking Functions
The 12 pre-programmed settings make it incredibly user-friendly, even for minimal effort cooking.
Control Panel
The microwave's intuitive controls and easy-to-use features are perfect for quick snacks and reheating meals.
Design and Aesthetics
A charming addition to any space, the nostalgic design with a retro flair is a standout feature.

Buying Guide for the Best Retro Microwave

Choosing a retro microwave can be a fun and functional addition to your kitchen. These appliances combine vintage aesthetics with modern technology, offering both style and convenience. When selecting the best retro microwave for your needs, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the right fit for your lifestyle and cooking habits.
Size and CapacitySize and capacity refer to the physical dimensions of the microwave and the amount of space inside it. This is important because it determines how much food you can cook at once and where you can place the microwave in your kitchen. Microwaves typically range from compact (0.5 to 0.9 cubic feet) to mid-size (1.0 to 1.5 cubic feet) to large (1.6 cubic feet and above). If you have limited counter space or only need to heat small meals, a compact model might be best. For larger families or those who cook bigger dishes, a mid-size or large microwave would be more suitable.
Power (Wattage)Power, measured in watts, indicates how quickly and evenly the microwave can cook food. Higher wattage means faster cooking times and more efficient heating. Microwaves typically range from 600 to 1200 watts. If you mostly reheat leftovers or cook simple meals, a microwave with 700-900 watts should suffice. For more complex cooking tasks or if you want faster results, look for a microwave with 1000 watts or more.
Cooking FunctionsCooking functions refer to the preset programs and features that make cooking easier. These can include defrost, popcorn, pizza, and reheat settings, among others. Some microwaves also offer grilling, convection, or combination cooking modes. If you prefer convenience and versatility, look for a microwave with a variety of preset functions. If you only need basic reheating and defrosting, a simpler model will do.
Control PanelThe control panel is the interface you use to operate the microwave. It can be digital or mechanical, with buttons, dials, or touch screens. A digital control panel offers more precise settings and often includes a timer and clock. Mechanical dials are simpler and can be easier to use for those who prefer a more straightforward approach. Choose a control panel that you find intuitive and easy to use.
TurntableThe turntable is the rotating glass plate inside the microwave that helps cook food evenly. Most microwaves come with a turntable, but some models offer a flatbed design without one. A turntable is useful for ensuring even cooking, especially for larger dishes. If you often cook large or irregularly shaped items, consider a microwave with a larger turntable or a flatbed design for more flexibility.
Design and AestheticsDesign and aesthetics are particularly important for retro microwaves, as they are meant to evoke a vintage look. Consider the color, shape, and overall style to ensure it matches your kitchen decor. Retro microwaves often come in bold colors like red, turquoise, or cream, with chrome accents and rounded edges. Choose a design that complements your kitchen and reflects your personal taste.

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