6 Best 800 Watt Microwave Ovens 2025

Bold in both color and character, the Nostalgia RMO4RR brings retro flair to life without sacrificing functionality. With 800 watts of cooking power and a 0.9 cubic foot capacity, it strikes a balance between compact design and practical performance—perfect for reheating leftovers or whipping up quick meals. The 12 pre-programmed settings take the guesswork out of cooking popcorn, pizza, or veggies, while the rotating glass turntable ensures even heat distribution, tackling one of the most common microwave pain points: cold spots.

In real-world use, this microwave shines in simplicity. The turn-and-push program dial feels intuitive and tactile, making it ideal for users who dislike cluttered digital interfaces. Whether you’re defrosting chicken or reheating coffee, the LED display remains bright and legible, and the delay timer adds convenience for scheduled cooking. However, it lacks advanced features like multi-stage cooking or mute mode, and the wattage—while adequate—falls short when compared to higher-powered models in the same price range, especially for dense or frozen foods.

Compared to the Chefman RJ55-SS or Emerson MWRG0901W, the RMO4RR doesn’t offer grilling capabilities or extra power, but it stands out with its vibrant metallic red finish and nostalgic charm. It’s best suited for dorm rooms, small kitchens, or retro-themed spaces where style matters as much as function. While it delivers solid performance for everyday tasks, its lack of power-level granularity and modern features makes it less versatile than some competitors—though its personality-packed design gives it an edge where aesthetics are a priority.

The Chefman RJ55-SS doesn’t just cook—it elevates the countertop microwave game with 1,000 watts of power and a spacious 1.1 cubic foot interior, making it a powerhouse for larger households or frequent meal prep. Its 10 power levels and multiphase cooking function allow for precise control, letting you defrost meat and then sear it with a follow-up high-power cycle—all without opening the door. For users tired of undercooked centers or soggy leftovers, this microwave delivers restaurant-level consistency in a sleek, stainless-steel package.

Real-world testing reveals it handles everything from frozen burritos to steamed vegetables with impressive speed and evenness. The +30-second quick start is a game-changer for busy mornings, while the mute function ensures quiet operation—perfect for apartments or late-night snacks. The eco mode, which dims the display when idle, is a subtle but meaningful touch for energy-conscious users. That said, the larger footprint may challenge smaller kitchens, and the digital interface, while modern, can feel slightly crowded with all its functions.

When stacked against the Nostalgia models, the Chefman offers double the cooking presets and superior power, but sacrifices some retro charm for minimalist modernity. It’s the clear winner for those who prioritize capacity and precision over vintage aesthetics. While the Emerson MWRG0901W offers grilling, the Chefman wins in raw speed and smart features—making it a better fit for tech-savvy users who want a no-nonsense, high-performance microwave that blends into contemporary kitchens.

The Emerson MWRG0901W is a revelation in compact cooking, combining 800 watts of microwave power with a 1,000-watt grill function—a rare hybrid that transforms it from a reheating tool into a full mini oven. This dual functionality lets you crisp pizza toppings, brown casseroles, or toast sandwiches with a golden finish that standard microwaves simply can’t achieve. Wrapped in a glossy white retro shell with chrome accents, it’s as stylish as it is smart, solving the age-old microwave problem of “soggy food” with grill-enabled texture control.

In practice, the grill mode heats up fast and delivers satisfying results—think melted cheese with a slight crunch or reheated fried chicken that doesn’t feel like mush. The 8 auto menus and smart defrost options (time and weight-based) make it beginner-friendly, while the 5 power levels offer enough customization for most home cooks. However, the grill function requires a bit more attention—overcooking happens easily if you’re not watching—and the 0.9 cu ft interior, while sufficient, limits larger dishes.

Against the Nostalgia RMO4RR, the Emerson offers more cooking versatility despite similar size and wattage. While the Chefman RJ55-SS has more power and space, it lacks grilling—making the Emerson the only true 2-in-1 option in this lineup. It’s ideal for small kitchens, bachelors, or anyone who wants restaurant-style finishes without a full oven. In terms of value, it delivers more cooking modes than any other model, blending retro style with modern innovation in a way that justifies its position as the best overall pick.

Sleek, sophisticated, and steeped in vintage appeal, the Nostalgia RMO4BK in jet black delivers 800 watts of reliable cooking power wrapped in a design that feels both modern and timeless. Its chrome accents and retro-inspired handle give it a polished look that elevates any countertop, while the 12 pre-programmed settings and rotating turntable ensure consistent, hassle-free cooking. For users who want a microwave that’s as much a decor piece as an appliance, this model hits the sweet spot between form and function.

Performance-wise, it handles everyday tasks with ease—reheating coffee, popping popcorn, or cooking frozen meals—but doesn’t push boundaries. The LED display is bright and clear, and the turn-and-push dial offers a satisfying, tactile experience that’s easier for older users than touch panels. That said, it lacks advanced features like memory settings or mute mode, and the 5 power levels feel limited compared to models offering 10. It also shares the same 800-watt ceiling that can slow down cooking for dense or large portions.

Compared to the aqua or red Nostalgia models, the RMO4BK stands out with its sleek, minimalist black finish—a rare find in retro appliances that often lean into bold colors. While it doesn’t offer the grill function of the Emerson or the capacity of the Chefman, it excels in aesthetic versatility, blending into modern, industrial, or vintage kitchens alike. For those who value design cohesion and understated elegance, this model offers more visual sophistication than its siblings—making it the best choice when style is non-negotiable.

The Nostalgia Aqua Microwave is a splash of personality in a sea of stainless steel, offering 800 watts of cooking power in a vibrant aqua finish that instantly becomes a kitchen focal point. With the same 0.9 cu ft capacity and 12 pre-programmed settings as its siblings, it delivers consistent performance for reheating, defrosting, and quick cooking—perfect for small spaces where charm and utility go hand in hand. The chrome-trimmed door and retro dial reinforce its vintage vibe, making it a favorite for mid-century modern lovers or renters wanting to personalize their space.

In daily use, it performs reliably: popcorn pops evenly, pizza reheats without turning rubbery, and the rotating glass turntable helps eliminate cold spots. The LED display is easy to read, and the delay timer adds flexibility for meal prep. However, like other Nostalgia models, it lacks advanced features such as eco mode, memory save, or multi-stage cooking. The 800-watt output, while sufficient, can’t match the speed of 1,000-watt competitors, especially when dealing with frozen or thick foods.

Next to the black or red versions, the aqua model offers no functional upgrades—but that’s not the point. Its value lies in color diversity, giving users a fun, expressive alternative to conventional appliance hues. While the BLACK+DECKER B0DHWWQ77M offers more power and features at a lower price, the aqua Nostalgia wins on personality and visual impact. For those who see their kitchen as a canvas, this microwave turns an ordinary appliance into a statement piece, proving that sometimes, color is the most powerful feature.

The BLACK+DECKER B0DHWWQ77M is a masterclass in value engineering—packing 900 watts of power, 10 power levels, and 6 auto menus into a compact frame for less than most competitors. With a spacious 0.9 cu ft interior that fits a 10-inch pizza, it’s designed for real-world usability in small kitchens, dorms, or offices. The one-touch start and memory function streamline daily use, while the two-step child lock adds peace of mind for families—making it a practical powerhouse that doesn’t skimp on safety or convenience.

In testing, it heats faster than the 800-watt Nostalgia models, with noticeable improvements in defrosting speed and evenness. The 10 power levels allow fine-tuned control, whether you’re gently warming milk or blasting frozen dinners. The kitchen timer is a rare and welcome addition, letting you use the microwave as a countdown tool without starting a cook cycle. However, the digital panel, while functional, lacks the retro charm of its competitors, and it doesn’t offer eco mode or mute settings for noise-sensitive environments.

Against the Nostalgia lineup, the BLACK+DECKER delivers more power and smarter features at a lower price, making it the best value pick. While it doesn’t have the grill function of the Emerson or the color variety of the aqua Nostalgia, it outperforms in usability and versatility. For budget-conscious buyers who want modern functionality without retro trade-offs, this model offers the best balance of power, features, and affordability—proving that sometimes, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.