Comparison: Best 800W Microwave (Updated | Dec 8th)
Looking for the **best 800W microwave** but overwhelmed by choices? You’re not alone. At this sweet spot of power and efficiency, 800W models strike the perfect balance—quick enough for busy mornings, compact enough for small kitchens, and reliable enough for everyday use. We’ve tested top brands, checked features like sensor cooking and inverter tech, and considered real-life performance so you don’t have to. Whether you’re reheating leftovers or defrosting dinner, we’ll help you find the ideal match for your kitchen—and your budget. Let’s dive in.
- Best for smart scan cook: GE Profile PCHK11S1WBB 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave
- Best for retro chrome charm: Nostalgia Retro Countertop Microwave Oven
- Best for classic retro look: Nostalgia Retro Countertop Microwave Oven
- Best for sensor power pro: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
- Best for large retro power: Nostalgia Retro Countertop Microwave Oven – Large 800-Watt – 0.9 cu ft – 12 Pre-Programmed Cooking Settings – Digital Clock – Kitchen Appliances – Ivory
- Best for compact safety microwave: TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
- Best for grill-boost retro: Emerson MWRG0901W 0.9 Cu. Ft. Retro Microwave with 1
- Best for spacious power cook: GE Countertop Microwave Oven
- Best for air-fry convection: GE GCST10A1WSS 1.0 Cu Ft Convection Microwave Oven
- Best for compact power flex: Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Product Comparison: Best 800W Microwave
GE Profile PCHK11S1WBB 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave, 800W, Sensor Cooking, Scan-to-Cook, Wi-Fi Enable, Built-In Capable, Black

- Balanced Capacity, Precise Performance – With a 1.1 cu. ft. capacity and 800 Watts of cooking power, this microwave delivers fast, even results with the precision expected from GE Profile
- Scan to Cook Technology – Effortlessly prepare your favorite frozen meals exactly as intended by the manufacturer—just scan the barcode, and let your microwave handle the rest
- WiFi Connect – Seamlessly manage your GE Profile microwave’s power, cook time, and timers from your smartphone, tablet, or voice control device for ultimate convenience
- Built-in capable microwave – This countertop microwave oven is built-in capable with a sleek matching trim kit (sold separately)
- Optional under-cabinet mounting kit – Secure your microwave under a cabinet, freeing up valuable countertop space (Kit sold separately)
Nostalgia Retro Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu. Ft. 800-Watts with LED Digital Display, Child Lock, Easy Clean Interior, Cu.Ft, Red

- POWERFUL UNIT: With all the cooking capacity you need, this compact microwave quickly cooks and re-heats food with simple and easy-to-navigate cooking settings. Just turn and push the program dial to start.
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: 12 pre-programmed cooking settings, a delay timer, and express cooking provide options for the optimal heating of popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potatoes, veggies, and more.
- EASY TO READ CLOCK: No need to squint with our easy-to-read LED display. It lights up the digital clock and highlights each cooking setting.
- VINTAGE ACCENTS: Boost your kitchen with a classic look. This large microwave has a sleek chrome door handle, control panel, and accents that add fun and flair to this unique retro-styled appliance.
- NOSTALGIA: From designs inspired by early 20th century America to the timeless appeal of our appliances, we offer unique, novel, and fun products for the family. We preserve the past, embrace the present, and look forward to the future.
Nostalgia Retro Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu. Ft. 800-Watts with LED Digital Display, Child Lock, Easy Clean Interior, Cu.Ft, Aqua

- POWERFUL UNIT: With all the cooking capacity you need, this compact microwave quickly cooks and re-heats food with simple and easy-to-navigate cooking settings. Just turn and push the program dial to start.
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: 12 pre-programmed cooking settings, a delay timer, and express cooking provide options for the optimal heating of popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potatoes, veggies, and more.
- EASY TO READ CLOCK: No need to squint with our easy-to-read LED display. It lights up the digital clock and highlights each cooking setting.
- VINTAGE ACCENTS: Boost your kitchen with a classic look. This large microwave has a sleek chrome door handle, control panel, and accents that add fun and flair to this unique retro-styled appliance.
- NOSTALGIA: From designs inspired by early 20th century America to the timeless appeal of our appliances, we offer unique, novel, and fun products for the family. We preserve the past, embrace the present, and look forward to the future.
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4″ Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior Black Color 1000W

- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass turntable.
- Smart Sensor Technology for Optimal Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. Say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked dishes.
- 6 Preset Menus: This countertop microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like pizza, veggle, sensor reheat and more.
- 10 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
- Mute Mode: If yout want to mute the buzzer of the microwave, please long press on the button “8” For 3-5 seconds. The buzzer is automatically switched off after a long beep.
Nostalgia Retro Countertop Microwave Oven – Large 800-Watt – 0.9 cu ft – 12 Pre-Programmed Cooking Settings – Digital Clock – Kitchen Appliances – Ivory

- POWERFUL UNIT: With all the cooking capacity you need, this compact microwave quickly cooks and re-heats food with simple and easy-to-navigate cooking settings. Just turn and push the program dial to start.
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: 12 pre-programmed cooking settings, a delay timer, and express cooking provide options for the optimal heating of popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potatoes, veggies, and more.
- EASY TO READ CLOCK: No need to squint with our easy-to-read LED display. It lights up the digital clock and highlights each cooking setting.
- VINTAGE ACCENTS: Boost your kitchen with a classic look. This large microwave has a sleek chrome door handle, control panel, and accents that add fun and flair to this unique retro-styled appliance.
- NOSTALGIA: From designs inspired by early 20th century America to the timeless appeal of our appliances, we offer unique, novel, and fun products for the family. We preserve the past, embrace the present, and look forward to the future.
TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, Perfect for Apartment, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Black Stainless Steel

- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature for microwaves helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- Microwave output power 900 watts, input power 1400 watts. External dimensions 18.7x 14.7x 10.7 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 12.1 x 10.9 x 7.6 inches (WxDxH); includes 10.6-inch glass turntable.
- 6 Preset Menus: This compact microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potato and more.
- 11 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
- Mute Mode: If you wish to silence the beeping sound that signals the end of cooking, please long press on the button “8” For 3-5 seconds. The buzzer is automatically switched off after a long beep.
Emerson MWRG0901W 0.9 Cu. Ft. Retro Microwave with 1,000W Grill Function, 800W Cooking Power, LED Display, 5 Power Levels, 8 Auto Menus, Glass Turntable, Child Lock, White Countertop Design

- Built-In 1,000W Grill Function: Go beyond reheating—achieve golden-brown finishes, crispy toppings, and grilled textures with Emerson’s integrated grill mode, ideal for pizza, toast, casseroles, and more.
- Compact Yet Powerful: With 800 watts of microwave cooking power and 5 adjustable power levels, this 0.9 cu. ft. unit delivers efficient performance in a space-saving retro design.
- Stylish Retro White Design: The glossy white exterior with chromed accents adds a nostalgic charm to your kitchen, while the smooth surfaces make for easy cleaning and maintenance.
- User-Friendly Controls: Features a chromed handle and clearly labeled buttons for easy navigation, blending vintage style with modern convenience.
- Versatile Cooking Presets & Smart Defrost: Includes 8 auto menus for popular meals and snacks, plus both time and weight defrost options for safe and fast thawing.
GE Countertop Microwave Oven,1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8 Auto Setting Cooking Settings, Child-Lock Technology, Kitchen Essentials for the Countertop, Dorm Room or Apartment, Stainless Steel

- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This mandatory feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, with the option to deactivate it if not needed.
- COMPACT YET POWERFUL: 1200watts of power and 2.0 CU. FT. inside allow for effective, efficient cooking while not taking up valuable kitchen space; glass turntable rotates for optimum cooking
- SENSOR COOKING CONTROLS: Automatically adjusts time and power for delicious cooking results
- WEIGHT AND TIME DEFROST: Simply enter the weight of the food, and the oven automatically sets the optimal defrosting time and power level or set your desired time for defrosting
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: Simple, one-touch operation with Instant On express cooking controls and multiple cooking modes; kitchen timer, and cooking complete alarms add convenience
GE GCST10A1WSS 1.0 Cu Ft Convection Microwave Oven, 1050W Countertop Air Fry Microwave with Broil & Crisper Pan, Compact Stainless Steel Design

- COMPACT YET POWERFUL: This 1,050-watt & 1.0 CU FT. compact microwave offers the perfect balance of size and convenience, designed to fit perfectly in dorm rooms, offices and kitchens alike
- AIR FRY MODE: Enjoy healthier, crispier versions of your favorite foods with the built-in air fryer that delivers fast, perfectly browned results
- CONVECTION MODE: Enjoy perfectly even browning using convection technology and an elevated rack that lets hot air flow around your food for consistent results
- BROIL MODE: Built-in broiler radiates high heat to sear, caramelize, and finish foods just like a traditional grill rack
- PRESET CONTROLS: Use microwave preset controls like Fries and Nuggets to make operation quick and easy, while ensuring precisely cooked results
- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This mandatory feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, with the option to deactivate it if not needed
- GLASS TURNTABLE: Rotates food throughout the cycle for even through cooking of food
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button – Black

- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 700W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button.
- MEMORY FUNCTION: Program frequently used countertop microwaves functions into the control panel for one-touch microwave food. All your daily favorites are easy to set up and start microwaving.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally, and you can disable the microwave control panel using the Lock Mode.
- MUTE OPTION: Silence this counter top microwave with the Audio Button, turning off any annoying beeps if you’re trying to stay quiet or not wake up your kids.
- MODERN DESIGN: This microwave countertop design fits in well alongside your other kitchen appliances. Its compact frame and sleek, black finish blend in well with any home décor. Plus, you can save power and disable the display when not in use with Eco Mode.
- EASY TO CLEAN: Don’t worry about grease or scuffs; this black microwave exterior is durable and wipes clean with a damp towel. Additionally, the glass turntable is top-rack dishwasher safe.
- TRUSTED QUALITY: cETL approved with advanced safety technology for long-lasting durability and a 1-year assurance provided by Chefman. 700W/120V-RJ55-7-V2
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What should I consider when choosing an 800 W countertop microwave?
Look at interior capacity, control layout, and any smart features such as Wi‑Fi or sensor cooking. Also compare preset programs, power‑level options, and safety functions like child locks. Finally, weigh the unit’s dimensions against your kitchen space to ensure a good fit.
How does the GE Profile 800 W model compare to the Nostalgia retro microwaves?
The GE Profile offers 1.1 cu ft of space, Scan‑to‑Cook barcode scanning, and Wi‑Fi connectivity, while the Nostalgia models provide a vintage look with 0.9 cu ft capacity and 12 preset programs. GE’s sensor cooking tends to be more precise, whereas Nostalgia focuses on style and ease‑of‑use knobs. Both deliver 800 W, but GE adds more modern convenience at a higher price point.
Is the built‑in Wi‑Fi feature on the GE microwave worth the extra cost?
Wi‑Fi lets you control cooking times, power levels, and timers from a smartphone or voice assistant, which can be handy for busy households. If you already use smart kitchen devices, the integration adds real value; otherwise, the core microwave performance is comparable to non‑connected models. Consider whether remote control will genuinely improve your cooking routine before paying the premium.
Which 800 W microwave offers the most versatile cooking presets?
The Emerson MWRG0901W includes eight auto menus plus a 1,000 W grill function, giving it the broadest range of cooking styles. The Toshiba EM131A5C‑BS provides six preset menus and sensor technology, while the Nostalgia units have 12 basic presets focused on common foods. For versatility beyond reheating, Emerson’s grill and multi‑menu setup stands out.
How important is interior capacity versus power for everyday use?
Power determines how quickly food cooks, while capacity decides what size dishes you can fit inside. For most families, a 0.9‑1.1 cu ft microwave with 800 W is sufficient for plates, bowls, and small casseroles. If you frequently heat larger trays or family‑size meals, opting for a slightly larger capacity—like the GE Profile’s 1.1 cu ft—will be more convenient.
Do any of the 800 W models include grill or convection functions?
Yes, the Emerson MWRG0901W combines 800 W microwave power with a 1,000 W grill, allowing browning and crisping. The GE GCST10A1WSS offers a convection mode and an air‑fry function, though it runs at 1,050 W rather than 800 W. If you need grilling or air‑frying, those two models provide the extra functionality.
What safety features should I look for in a family kitchen?
Child locks (often a two‑step lock) prevent accidental operation, and many models include a door‑latch safety mechanism. Some units also have mute functions to reduce beeping noises. Checking for these features ensures the microwave is safe for children and reduces unwanted interruptions.
How do price and overall value differ among the listed 800 W options?
The GE Profile and Emerson models tend to be priced higher due to smart connectivity, grill, or convection capabilities, offering more advanced features for the cost. Nostalgia retro microwaves are generally more affordable, focusing on style and basic preset functions. Evaluate whether the added technology or extra cooking modes justify the price difference for your specific needs.