We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Retro Microwave 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

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

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,407
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Control Panel

Most important from
22990 reviews

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.

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.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,407
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Control Panel

Most important from
22990 reviews

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

Rating
9.6
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Cooking Functions

Most important from
11649 reviews

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.

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.

Rating
9.6
Size and Capacity
Power (Wattage)
Cooking Functions

Most important from
11649 reviews

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

Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts, 0.7 Cu. Ft. - Microwave Oven With LED Lighting and Child Lock - Perfect for Apartments and Dorms - Easy Clean Grey Interior, Retro Black

Rating
9.4
Size and Capacity
Control Panel
Turntable

Most important from
7314 reviews

Size and Capacity
Simple controls and a small footprint make it a great little microwave for work.
Control Panel
Simple controls and a small footprint make it a great little microwave for work.
Turntable
The glass tray wobbles a bit, but it's not as bad as more expensive models.
Design and Aesthetics
Looks great and works great so far, proving to be superior in every way to our previous Panasonic microwave.

The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a compact and stylish option, especially suited for small spaces like apartments and dorms. With a capacity of 0.7 cubic feet and measuring 12.91 x 17.75 x 10.1 inches, it's small yet functional. At 700 watts, it offers decent cooking power for basic tasks. Users can appreciate its ten power levels and six one-touch options, making it easy to prepare common foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.

The multi-stage cooking allows for customized cooking, while the defrost settings by weight or time provide convenience for quick meal preparations. The touch control panel is user-friendly, featuring an LED display with a kitchen timer and clock. The interior lighting and child safety lock add to its practical features.

The retro black design with an easy-to-clean interior and exterior combines functionality with aesthetic appeal. However, the lower wattage might make cooking slower for some users, and the 0.7 cu ft capacity may be limiting for larger dishes. Despite these drawbacks, its compact size, user-friendly features, and stylish design make it a strong contender for those needing a small, efficient microwave for basic cooking tasks.

Rating
9.4
Size and Capacity
Control Panel
Turntable

Most important from
7314 reviews

Size and Capacity
Simple controls and a small footprint make it a great little microwave for work.
Control Panel
Simple controls and a small footprint make it a great little microwave for work.
Turntable
The glass tray wobbles a bit, but it's not as bad as more expensive models.
Design and Aesthetics
Looks great and works great so far, proving to be superior in every way to our previous Panasonic microwave.

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.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now