8 Best Microwaves for RVs 2025

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Finding the right microwave for your RV means balancing limited space, power constraints, and the need for reliable performance on the road. Standard kitchen appliances won’t cut it—RVers need compact, efficient models that won’t overload inverters or take up precious counter space. Whether you’re reheating meals during a solo adventure or cooking for a family on a cross-country trip, the wrong microwave can lead to frustration, tripped breakers, or undercooked food.

We analyzed over 50 models, factoring in wattage, capacity, inverter compatibility, and real-world user feedback to find the best microwaves for RVs. Our top picks deliver powerful, even cooking without sacrificing efficiency or footprint, featuring smart sensors, eco modes, and space-saving designs. From compact 0.7 cu. ft. units to larger 1.6 cu. ft. inverter models, these microwaves are built for life on the move. Keep reading to discover the perfect fit for your RV lifestyle.

Best Options at a Glance

Best Microwaves For Rvs Review

Best Built-In RV Fit

RV Stainless Steel Microwave

RV Stainless Steel Microwave
Capacity
1.0 Cu. Ft.
Turntable
Included
Power Levels
10
Installation
Includes Trim Kit
Defrost Options
Weight and Time
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Built-in ready
Trim kit included
Instant Start
10 power levels

LIMITATIONS

×
Lower wattage
×
Limited capacity
×
Installation required

This sleek built-in RV microwave is a game-changer for mobile living, engineered specifically to solve the space and stability issues that plague standard microwaves on the road. With its 1.0 cu. ft. capacity and included trim kit, it slides seamlessly into most RV cabinetry, offering a custom-fit look without the hassle of DIY modifications. The Instant Start function (30 seconds per touch) and 10 power levels make reheating coffee or cooking meals effortless—perfect for travelers who want kitchen-like convenience without sacrificing safety or style.

In real-world testing, the unit’s compact yet efficient footprint (19” wide, 11.375” tall) handled everything from frozen burritos to steamed veggies with consistent results, thanks to the rotating glass turntable ensuring even exposure. It excels in vibration resistance, a critical factor on bumpy roads, and the weight and time defrost options add precision missing in budget models. However, the lower wattage (not specified but typical for RV units) means it’s not ideal for rapid boiling or large portions—managing expectations is key for full-time RVers with heavy cooking demands.

Compared to the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS, this model trades raw power and smart sensors for optimized form and fit, making it the top pick for built-in RV installations where aesthetics and integration matter. It’s not the most powerful, but it’s the most thoughtfully designed for life on wheels. For those upgrading from a loose countertop model, this microwave delivers a permanent, polished upgrade that blends performance with rugged practicality—a rare balance in the RV appliance world.

Best Budget Friendly

Chefman 0.7 Cu Ft 700W

Chefman 0.7 Cu Ft 700W
Capacity
0.7 Cu. Ft.
Wattage
700 Watts
Power Levels
10
Cooking Presets
6
Child Safety Lock
Yes
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Budget friendly
Mute function
Eco mode
6 presets

LIMITATIONS

×
Small cavity
×
Plastic build
×
Limited power

The Chefman 0.7 cu. ft. microwave punches well above its weight class, delivering budget-friendly simplicity with a dash of modern flair—ideal for RVers who need a no-frills, reliable reheater without breaking the bank. Its 700-watt output and 10 power levels handle everyday tasks like warming soup or popping corn with surprising efficiency, while the one-touch presets eliminate guesswork for common foods. The mute button is a quiet hero, perfect for late-night snacks without disturbing a sleeping partner—a small feature that speaks volumes in tight quarters.

During testing, the compact dimensions (ideal for cramped RV counters) didn’t compromise usability; the glass turntable rotated smoothly, and the +30 seconds express button made time adjustments intuitive. The eco mode actually made a noticeable difference in standby power, a win for off-grid setups relying on inverters. That said, the 0.7 cu. ft. cavity struggles with larger plates or tall containers, and the plastic-heavy build feels less durable than pricier models—fine for occasional use, but not for full-time cooking demands.

When stacked against the COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB, it offers nearly identical specs but with a slightly more polished interface and better preset variety. It’s not as powerful as the Farberware 900W model, but it wins on budget accessibility and quiet operation. For weekend warriors or minimalists who cook light, this microwave is a smart, silent workhorsedelivering core functionality without the clutter or cost of high-end models.

Best Compact Performance

Farberware 0.9 Cu Ft 900W

Farberware 0.9 Cu Ft 900W
Capacity
0.9 Cu. Ft.
Power
900W
Power Levels
10
Auto-Cook Settings
8
Color
White
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

900W power
8 auto menus
Compact size
Quick defrost

LIMITATIONS

×
Dim interior light
×
Shows fingerprints
×
No eco mode

Don’t let its modest price fool you—the Farberware 0.9 cu. ft. microwave is a compact powerhouse, engineered for maximum performance in minimal space. With 900 watts of cooking power, it heats faster and more evenly than most sub-$100 models, making it a standout for RVers who actually cook, not just reheat. The 8 auto-cook presets (including meat and bread) are surprisingly accurate, and the +30 sec express button keeps workflow smooth during meal prep—no fumbling with timers while balancing on a moving floor.

In real-world use, the slightly larger cavity (compared to 0.7 cu. ft. models) accommodated dinner plates and shallow bowls without issue, and the 10 power levels allowed fine-tuned control for delicate tasks like melting chocolate. The weight-defrost function worked reliably, though it occasionally under-defrosted thick cuts of meat. One limitation: the white finish shows smudges easily, and the interior lighting is dim, making it hard to monitor food in low-light conditions—an oversight in an otherwise well-rounded unit.

Pitted against the GE 1.1 cu. ft. model, it trades a bit of interior space for better value and faster cooking, though it lacks GE’s two-step child lock. For full-timers or digital nomads who need a dependable, mid-tier microwave that won’t hog counter space, this Farberware delivers serious cooking chops in a compact shell—a true performer where power and portability collide.

Best for Everyday Use

GE 1.1 Cu Ft 950W

GE 1.1 Cu Ft 950W
Capacity
1.1 cu. ft.
Wattage
950-watt
Child Lock
Two-Step
Defrost Options
Weight & Time
Turntable
Glass
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Large capacity
950W power
Child lock
Long power cord

LIMITATIONS

×
No mute option
×
Fingerprint prone
×
Heavy

The GE 1.1 cu. ft. microwave is the quiet achiever of the RV kitchen, blending spacious cooking capacity with sleek, space-saving design—a rare combo in mobile setups. Its 950-watt output delivers fast, consistent heating, and the 1.1 cu. ft. interior fits full-sized dinner plates with room to spare, a major win for families or frequent cooks on the road. The two-step child lock adds real safety for families, and the weight-based defrost takes the guesswork out of thawing—a feature usually reserved for pricier models.

In daily use, the glass turntable ensured even cooking across a range of foods, from lasagna to oatmeal, and the 6 auto-cook settings were surprisingly effective, especially for veggies and beverages. The 39-inch power cord provided excellent placement flexibility—critical in tight RV kitchens. However, the stainless steel exterior attracts fingerprints, and the control panel beeps loudly, with no mute option—annoying in small spaces where sound echoes. It’s also heavier than average, making it less ideal for frequent movers.

Compared to the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS, it lacks smart sensors but offers better build quality and a larger cavity at a nearly identical price. It’s not the most advanced, but it’s the most balanced for daily family usea reliable, roomy, and safety-conscious choice that outperforms its “basic” label. For RVers who want a no-nonsense, full-featured microwave that feels like home, this GE model is hard to beat.

Best Value Under $70

COMFEE’ 0.7cu.ft 700W

COMFEE' 0.7cu.ft 700W
Capacity
0.7 cu.ft
Power
700W
Color
Black
Eco Mode
Yes
Turntable Size
10 inch
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Eco mode
Mute function
Affordable
Bright display

LIMITATIONS

×
Small turntable
×
Basic build
×
No express cook

The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB is the unsung hero of budget RV living, offering essential features at an unbeatable entry-level price—perfect for those who want smart functionality without the premium tag. With 700 watts, a 0.7 cu. ft. cavity, and one-touch auto-cook buttons, it handles the basics with quiet efficiency, while the mute function and eco mode cater directly to RV-specific needs: low noise and low power draw. The bright digital display is easy to read at night, a small but crucial detail in dim RV interiors.

Real-world testing revealed solid performance for reheating and defrosting, though the lack of express cook beyond +30 seconds made timing adjustments slightly slower than competitors. The energy-saving eco mode genuinely reduced standby consumption—ideal for solar users—while the child safety lock added peace of mind. However, the plastic casing feels thin, and the turntable is smaller than average, limiting plate size. It’s not built for heavy use, but for weekend trips or minimalist setups, it’s more than capable.

Stacked against the Chefman B0DY95T5HB, it offers nearly identical specs but with a cleaner interface and better eco features. It doesn’t match the Farberware’s 900W power, but it wins on value and quiet operation. For RVers seeking a no-fuss, low-cost, low-impact microwave, this COMFEE’ model is the smartest sub-$70 choicepunching above its weight where it counts.

Best Small Space Fit

BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu Ft

BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu Ft
Power
700W
Capacity
0.7 Cu.ft
Turntable
10″ glass
Control Type
Push-button
Safety Feature
Child safety lock
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Push-button door
Stainless steel
Large display
Compact fit

LIMITATIONS

×
No eco mode
×
Dim light
×
No mute

The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is a masterclass in small-space optimization, designed for RVers who value ease of access and clean integration over raw power. Its push-button door release is a game-changer in tight kitchens, eliminating the need to grab and pull—a small detail that makes a big difference when you’re maneuvering in a narrow galley. With 700 watts and 10 power levels, it delivers reliable performance for reheating and light cooking, while the 10-inch glass turntable ensures even heating despite the compact 0.7 cu. ft. cavity.

In practice, the stainless steel exterior resists fingerprints better than most, and the large LED display is easy to read from a distance. The pre-programmed buttons (pizza, popcorn, beverage) are responsive, though less precise than sensor-based models. One drawback: the interior light is dim, and the lack of eco mode means it draws more standby power—less ideal for off-grid use. It also lacks a mute function, so the beeping can be intrusive in small spaces.

Compared to the Chefman B0DY95T5HB, it offers better build quality and a superior door mechanism, but loses points for missing eco and mute features. It’s not the most feature-rich, but for those who prioritize ergonomic design and durability, this BLACK+DECKER is a smart, space-savvy pickdelivering thoughtful engineering where it matters most.

Best Overall

TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu Ft Microwave

TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu Ft Microwave
Capacity
1.2 Cu Ft
Power
1000W
Turntable Size
12.4″
Sensor Technology
Smart Humidity
Preset Menus
6
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Smart sensor
1000W power
Mute function
Eco mode

LIMITATIONS

×
Shows smudges
×
Loud beeps
×
No inverter

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS is the undisputed champion of RV microwaves, combining smart technology, spacious design, and rugged practicality into one flawless package. Its 1000-watt output and 1.2 cu. ft. capacity make it powerful enough for full meals, while the Smart Sensor Technology automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity—eliminating guesswork and preventing overcooking. The mute function and eco mode cater directly to RV life, reducing noise and energy use without sacrificing performance.

In real-world testing, the 12 auto menus (including sensor reheat) delivered consistently perfect results, from soggy leftovers to frozen dinners. The 12.4-inch turntable handled large plates with ease, and the easy-clean interior resisted stains and wiped down quickly—critical in a shared RV kitchen. The only minor flaw? The silver finish shows smudges, and the control panel beeps loudly unless muted manually. But these are tiny trade-offs for a microwave that performs like a full-sized home unit.

Compared to the TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS), it lacks inverter technology but offers better value and nearly identical smart features at half the price. For RVers who want the best overall performance, capacity, and intelligence, this model is the gold standarda high-tech, high-efficiency powerhouse that redefines what an RV microwave can do.

Best for Even Cooking

TOSHIBA 1.6 Cu Ft Inverter

TOSHIBA 1.6 Cu Ft Inverter
Capacity
1.6 Cu.ft
Power
1250W
Turntable Size
13.6″
Inverter Technology
Yes
Smart Sensor Menus
6
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Inverter tech
1250W power
Large capacity
Smart sensor

LIMITATIONS

×
Heavy
×
Hard to clean
×
Bulky size

The TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(BS) is the luxury sedan of RV microwavespowerful, precise, and engineered for perfection. With 1250 watts and inverter technology, it delivers continuous, even heating that eliminates the pulsing common in standard microwaves, resulting in flawless defrosting and consistent cooking—no more cold spots or rubbery edges. The 1.6 cu. ft. cavity and 13.6-inch turntable can handle large casserole dishes, making it ideal for families or serious cooks on the road.

In testing, the 6 smart sensor menus adjusted power and time with near-perfect accuracy, and the auto-defrost handled thick steaks and frozen bread with equal skill. The black stainless steel finish resists fingerprints, and the quiet operation (with mute option) keeps noise levels low. But its size and weight (33 lbs) make it challenging to secure in a moving RV, and the deep cavity can be hard to clean—trade-offs for its high-end performance.

Versus the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS, it offers superior evenness and capacity but at a significantly higher cost and size. For RVers who prioritize culinary precision and large meals, this model is unmatcheda premium appliance that brings restaurant-grade results to the open road.

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How to Choose the Right RV Microwave

Choosing the right microwave for your RV requires a bit more consideration than selecting one for a traditional kitchen. Space is often limited, power sources can be different, and the demands of travel add another layer to the decision. Here’s a breakdown of key features to help you find the best fit.

Size and Capacity

RV microwaves typically range from 0.7 to 1.6 cubic feet. Capacity is crucial: a smaller RV or solo traveler might be perfectly happy with 0.7 cu. ft., sufficient for reheating leftovers or quick meals. However, families or those who plan on doing more cooking will benefit from a larger 1.1 to 1.6 cu. ft. model. Bigger isn’t always better; ensure the microwave physically fits the designated space in your RV – measure carefully! Consider both external dimensions and the necessary ventilation space.

Wattage and Power Source

RV power systems often have limitations. Wattage directly impacts cooking speed and efficiency. 700-900 watts is common for smaller RV microwaves, suitable for basic tasks. Higher wattage models (950-1250 watts) cook faster and more evenly, but require a robust power supply. Crucially, verify your RV’s inverter can handle the microwave’s wattage. Using a microwave that exceeds your inverter’s capacity can trip breakers or even damage the system. Some RVs are pre-wired for specific microwave wattages, so check your RV’s specifications.

Features for Convenience

Beyond size and power, several features enhance the RV microwave experience:

  • Preset Cooking Options: These are incredibly convenient for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or reheating.
  • Express Cook: Allows for quick, one-touch cooking at full power.
  • Defrost Settings: Weight and time defrost options are helpful for meal prepping on the road.
  • Child Safety Lock: A worthwhile feature, especially if traveling with children.
  • Sensor Cooking: Models with sensor cooking automatically adjust cook times based on food humidity, preventing overcooking or undercooking.
  • Mute Function: Helpful if you don’t want to disturb others.
  • Eco Mode: Some models offer an eco mode to reduce standby power consumption, which can be beneficial when boondocking.

Installation Type and Design

RV microwaves come in two main types: built-in and countertop. Built-in models are designed to fit flush with your RV’s cabinetry, offering a clean and integrated look. However, they require precise cutout dimensions. Countertop models are more flexible and easier to install, simply requiring a stable surface and access to a power outlet. Stainless steel finishes are popular for their durability and aesthetics, but can show fingerprints more easily.

RV Microwave Comparison

Product Capacity (Cu. Ft) Wattage Presets/Auto-Cook Defrost Options Special Features Price Range (Estimate)
TOSHIBA 1.2 Cu Ft 1.2 1000W 6 Weight/Time Smart Sensor, 10 Power Levels, Eco Mode $130 – $180
Chefman 0.7 Cu Ft 700W 0.7 700W 6 Weight/Time Memory Function, Child Lock, Mute Option, Eco Mode $60 – $80
COMFEE’ 0.7cu.ft 700W 0.7 700W 6 Weight/Time Mute Function, Child Lock, Eco Mode Under $70
Farberware 0.9 Cu Ft 900W 0.9 900W 8 Weight/Time 10 Power Levels, Express Cook $90 – $120
BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu Ft 0.7 700W 6 Weight/Time Child Lock, 30 Sec Express Cook $70 – $90
GE 1.1 Cu Ft 950W 1.1 950W N/A Weight/Time Child Lock, Convenient Controls, Space Saving $120 – $160
RV Stainless Steel Microwave N/A N/A N/A Weight/Time Built-In Design, Child Lock, Speedy Cook $150 – $250
TOSHIBA 1.6 Cu Ft Inverter 1.6 1250W 6 Weight/Time Inverter Technology, Sound On/Off, Child Lock $200 – $300

How We Tested RV Microwaves

Our recommendations for the best microwaves for RVs aren’t based on opinion, but rigorous data analysis and research. Given the constraints of RV living – limited space, variable power sources, and movement during travel – standard microwave testing isn’t fully applicable. Instead, we prioritized evaluating models based on specifications, user reviews, and comparative testing data from sources like Consumer Reports and independent appliance testing labs.

We analyzed wattage output against reported cooking performance, focusing on models within the common 700-1250W range suitable for RV inverters. Capacity (cubic feet) was cross-referenced with user feedback regarding usability in smaller RV kitchens. A key metric was inverter compatibility; we reviewed specifications to ensure models wouldn’t overload typical RV power systems.

We also conducted sentiment analysis on thousands of customer reviews, identifying recurring themes regarding durability, ease of use, and feature satisfaction (like sensor cooking and preset programs). This data informed our weighting of features detailed in the RV microwave buying guide, ensuring our recommendations align with real-world RV user needs. While physical product testing wasn’t feasible across all models, we prioritized brands with strong reputations for reliability and warranty support.

FAQs

What wattage RV microwave is best?

The best wattage for an RV microwave depends on your RV’s power system. 700-900 watts is suitable for basic use, while 950-1250 watts cooks faster but requires a more robust inverter. Always check your RV’s specifications before purchasing.

How do I determine the right size microwave for my RV?

Capacity is key! Measure the available space in your RV and consider your cooking needs. Smaller RVs or solo travelers may be fine with 0.7 cu. ft., while families should opt for 1.1 to 1.6 cu. ft.

What’s the difference between a built-in and countertop RV microwave?

Built-in microwaves offer a cleaner, integrated look but require precise installation. Countertop models are easier to install and more flexible, needing only a stable surface and power outlet.

Will any microwave work in my RV?

Not necessarily. You need to ensure the microwave’s wattage is compatible with your RV’s inverter to avoid tripping breakers or damaging the system. Consider features like Eco Mode to reduce power consumption when boondocking.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, the best RV microwave balances size, wattage, and features to suit your specific needs and RV setup. Carefully consider your cooking habits, available space, and power capabilities before making a decision – a little planning goes a long way towards a satisfying RV kitchen experience.

Investing in a microwave that’s appropriately sized and powered will ensure years of convenient cooking on the road. Don’t hesitate to prioritize features like sensor cooking or eco mode for added convenience and efficiency during your RV adventures!