7 Best Retro Microwave Ovens of 2025

This retro-chic powerhouse brings bold style and reliable performance to small kitchens without breaking the bank. With 900 watts of cooking power and a spacious 0.7 cubic foot cavity, the FRIGIDAIRE EMW788RETRO delivers faster reheating than most budget models, making it ideal for students or office use. The oversized, knob-based controls aren’t just nostalgic—they’re genuinely intuitive, especially for users who dislike touchpads, while the Speed/Weight Defrost feature takes the guesswork out of thawing. It solves the classic problem of underpowered compact microwaves by packing serious wattage into a compact, eye-catching frame.

In real-world testing, this microwave excels at reheating leftovers and cooking frozen meals, thanks to its strong output and consistent internal temperature. The glass turntable ensures even heating, though larger plates may rub slightly against the interior walls. While it lacks pre-programmed menus found on pricier rivals, its manual dials respond smoothly and allow precise time and power adjustments. However, the LED display is dimmer than average, making it harder to read in bright kitchens—a minor annoyance but worth noting.

Compared to the Emerson MWR7020BL, this model trades some automation (like auto menus) for more raw power and a bolder aesthetic. It doesn’t offer the same level of cooking convenience as models with multi-stage programming, but its simplicity and robust build make it perfect for users who want a no-fuss, style-forward microwave that still performs well. For those prioritizing value and visual flair over smart features, the FRIGIDAIRE EMW788RETRO outshines many in its class with better wattage and a more distinctive presence than similarly priced options.

Drenched in vintage vibes and chromed elegance, the Emerson MWR7020BL isn’t just a microwave—it’s a kitchen statement piece. Its Thunderbird Blue finish and polished chrome handle evoke 1950s diner charm, making it a standout for design-focused homes. But beyond looks, it delivers with 8 auto menus and 5 power levels, offering surprising culinary flexibility for a compact 0.7 cu. ft. unit. The LED display is bright and legible, and the express heating function makes last-minute meals effortless—perfect for users tired of bland, boxy appliances that vanish into the background.

During daily use, the auto-cook presets proved accurate and consistent, especially for popcorn and beverages, reducing the risk of overcooking. The 700-watt output keeps performance adequate, though it lags behind 900W+ models when heating dense or large portions. The glass turntable rotates smoothly, ensuring even cooking, and the interior light enhances visibility. However, the lower wattage means longer cook times, and it struggles slightly with reheating full dinner plates compared to higher-powered rivals.

When stacked against the FRIGIDAIRE EMW788RETRO, the Emerson trades power for polish—offering more automation and a richer aesthetic but less heating intensity. It’s best suited for singles or couples who value style and convenience over speed and capacity. For those seeking a true retro experience with modern usability, this model delivers more automated ease and visual charm than the plainer, knob-driven competition—even if it heats a bit slower.

This apricot-hued gem earns its title as the best overall retro microwave by blending smart features, strong performance, and thoughtful design in one joyful package. With 900 watts of power and a roomy 0.9 cu. ft. cavity, it handles everything from frozen burritos to steamed veggies with ease. The multi-stage cooking function is a game-changer—allowing you to defrost and then cook in one seamless cycle—making meal prep faster and more intuitive. Add in 11 power levels and 6 auto menus, and you’ve got a microwave that’s as functional as it is fun.

In real-life use, the multi-stage programming shines, especially for busy households needing hands-off meal solutions. The LED display is crisp, and the mute function is a quiet luxury—perfect for late-night snacks without disturbing others. The larger interior fits wider dishes than most compact models, though it still won’t accommodate oversized casserole trays. One minor flaw: the buttons can feel slightly stiff, requiring a firm press, which may frustrate younger users or those with limited dexterity.

Against the COMFEE’ AM720C2RA-G, this model offers more space and advanced cooking options, making it better for families or frequent cooks. While both share retro styling and mute functionality, this one steps ahead with greater versatility and capacity. It’s the ideal pick for users who want a balance of retro flair and modern performance, outperforming smaller, less capable models without sacrificing charm or convenience.

Designed for tight spaces and minimalist tastes, the COMFEE’ AM720C2RA-G is a compact marvel that doesn’t skimp on usability. At just 0.7 cubic feet, it fits neatly in dorm rooms, RVs, or studio kitchens, yet still packs 700 watts and 10 power settings for reliable performance. The position-memory turntable is a subtle but brilliant touch—resuming rotation from where it stopped, reducing noise and wear. With 9 preset buttons and 30-second express cooking, it streamlines everyday tasks, making it perfect for users who want speed without clutter.

In testing, it reheated coffee and instant noodles quickly, though heavier meals required extra time due to the lower wattage. The push-button door release feels modern and smooth, a rare feature in retro-styled units, and the removable 10” turntable simplifies cleaning. However, the lack of a grill or multi-stage cooking limits its versatility, and the presets aren’t as customizable as higher-end models. It’s consistent but basic—ideal for light use, not heavy-duty cooking.

Compared to the apricot COMFEE’ model, this one sacrifices power and capacity for portability and a tighter footprint. It’s the better choice for urban dwellers or travelers who prioritize space-saving design and ease of use over advanced features. While it doesn’t match the performance of larger siblings, it offers more convenience and presets than many microwaves in its size class, making it a smart pick for efficiency in small setups.

If you’ve ever wished your microwave could crisp, brown, and grill like a mini oven, the Emerson MWRG0901W is your retro dream come true. Armed with a 1,000-watt grill function and 800W microwave power, it transforms frozen pizza into a golden, bubbling delight and gives sandwiches a satisfying crunch—something most retro models simply can’t do. The 0.9 cu. ft. cavity offers ample space for family-sized dishes, and the 8 auto menus streamline everything from popcorn to baked potatoes. This is the only retro microwave here that truly expands your cooking possibilities beyond reheating.

In practical use, the grill function delivers restaurant-style results, though it adds a few extra minutes to cook times. The dual power system works seamlessly, letting you combine microwave and grill modes for faster, crispier meals. The chrome accents and glossy white finish scream vintage charm, while the LED display and responsive buttons keep operation modern and intuitive. However, the grill requires manual monitoring, and the interior can splatter more than standard models, demanding extra cleanup.

Stacked against the COMFEE’ CMO-MMP02AA(AT), this Emerson trades mute function and multi-stage flexibility for superior browning and texture control. It’s the go-to for foodies and families who want more cooking versatility in a retro shell. While it lacks the mute option and slightly lower wattage in microwave mode, its grill capability and nostalgic white design make it the most culinary-capable retro microwave on the list—perfect for those who cook, not just reheat.

With a dazzling 12 pre-set cooking options, the Nostalgia B09S3Y5TGD is the smartest menu-driven retro microwave for users who hate guessing cook times. Whether you’re heating pizza, popcorn, or veggies, the dedicated auto programs deliver consistent results with a single press—ideal for kids, seniors, or anyone seeking kitchen simplicity. The 700-watt output is standard for its size, and while not the fastest, it heats evenly thanks to the rotating glass carousel. The chrome-trimmed retro accents and bright red finish add playful charm, turning a utilitarian appliance into a fun centerpiece.

In real-world testing, the delay timer and express cook buttons enhanced convenience, letting users schedule meals or heat food in 30-second bursts. The LED display is sharp and always visible, even in sunlight, and the child lock adds safety without complicating use. However, the lack of multi-stage cooking limits advanced prep, and the 0.7 cu. ft. size restricts larger dishes. It performs well for reheating and simple tasks but can’t match the power or capacity of larger models.

Compared to the COMFEE’ AM720C2RA-G, it offers more presets (12 vs 9) and a brighter aesthetic, though both share similar wattage and size. It’s best for families with kids or tech-wary users who want maximum automation in a retro shell. While it doesn’t have the grill or mute features of pricier models, its abundance of smart menus and user-friendly interface make it the most accessible and intuitive option for hassle-free daily use.

Boasting a spacious 1.1 cu. ft. interior and 1,000 watts of power, the Nostalgia B0FJTB2589 is the king of capacity in the retro microwave world. It effortlessly fits large plates, deep bowls, and even small casserole dishes—making it perfect for families or anyone tired of microwaves that can’t handle real meals. The 1000W output reheats food quickly and evenly, outpacing nearly every other model in this lineup, while the 8 auto-cook settings and express cooking keep operation simple and efficient. Its aqua finish and chrome details deliver retro charm without sacrificing modern performance.

In daily use, it handled dense leftovers and frozen family-sized meals with ease, thanks to its powerful motor and steady turntable rotation. The reheat and defrost-by-weight functions are particularly useful, adapting automatically to food load. However, its larger footprint makes it a poor fit for tiny kitchens or countertops with limited space. It also lacks multi-stage programming or mute functionality, missing some conveniences found on similarly priced models.

When compared to the COMFEE’ CMO-MMP02AA(AT), this Nostalgia model offers more power and space but fewer advanced features. It’s ideal for larger households or heavy users who prioritize speed and capacity over compactness or smart cooking modes. While it doesn’t have the grilling power of the Emerson MWRG0901W, its raw heating strength and roomy interior make it the best choice for those who cook full meals regularly in a retro-styled appliance.