Comparison: Best Budget 800W Microwave (Updated | Dec 8th)
Looking for a powerful yet affordable 800W microwave without breaking the bank? You’re not alone. With so many options out there, finding the **best budget 800W microwave** can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—we’ve tested, compared, and rounded up the top contenders that deliver speed, reliability, and smart features for less. Whether you’re reheating leftovers or whipping up quick meals, these budget-friendly picks prove you don’t need to splurge to get great performance. Let’s dive into which models truly stand out in the crowded world of kitchen essentials.
- Best for retro kitchen charm: Nostalgia Retro Countertop Microwave Oven
- Best for classic chrome look: Nostalgia Retro Countertop Microwave Oven
- Best for timeless countertop design: Nostalgia Retro Countertop Microwave Oven – Large 800-Watt – 0.9 cu ft – 12 Pre-Programmed Cooking Settings – Digital Clock – Kitchen Appliances – Ivory
- Best for grill-ready microwave: Emerson MWRG0901W 0.9 Cu. Ft. Retro Microwave with 1
- Best for even-spin cooking: Nostalgia RMO4RR Retro Large 0.9 cu ft
- Best for simple dial control: Nostalgia RMO4BK Retro 0.9 Cubic Foot 800-Watt Countertop Microwave Oven
- Best for bold red grill: Emerson MWRG0901RD 0.9 Cu. Ft. Retro Microwave with 1
- Best for sleek black grill: Emerson MWRG0901BK Retro Compact Countertop 800W Microwave Oven with 1
- Best for versatile retro microwave: Nostalgia Retro Countertop Microwave Oven – Large 800-Watt – 0.9 cu ft – 12 Pre-Programmed Cooking Settings – Digital Clock & Hamilton Beach Electric Automatic Can Opener
- Best for pet-partner microwave: Nostalgia Retro Countertop Microwave Oven – Large 800-Watt – 0.9 cu ft & BISSELL CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum
Product Comparison: Best Budget 800W Microwave
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.
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.
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.
Nostalgia RMO4RR Retro Large 0.9 cu ft, 800-Watt Countertop Microwave Oven, 12 Pre-Programmed Cooking Settings, Digital Clock, Easy Clean Interior, Metallic Red
- 800-watt cooking power – At 0.9 cubic foot, this microwave provides the cooking power needed to quickly cook and reheat foods
- Customizable cooking settings – 12 pre-programmed cooking settings and delay timer provide options for the optimal heating of popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potatoes, veggies and more
- Digital clock – Easy-to-read LED display lights up the digital clock and highlights each cooking setting
- Even cooking – Rotating glass carousel helps cook food evenly
- Simple program dial – Easily navigate cooking settings with simple turn-and-push program dial
Nostalgia RMO4BK Retro 0.9 Cubic Foot 800-Watt Countertop Microwave Oven, 5 Power Levels and 12 Cook Settings, LED Display, Jet Black
- 800-Watts cooking power: at 0.9 Cubic Foot, This microwave provides the cooking power needed to quickly cook and reheat foods
- Customizable cooking settings: 12 pre-programmed cooking settings and delay timer provide options for the optimal heating of popular foods like popcorn, pizza, potatoes, veggies and more
- Digital clock: easy-to-read LED display lights up the digital clock and highlights each cooking setting
- Even cooking: rotating glass carousel helps cook food evenly
- Retro accents: a sleek chrome door handle, control panel and accents add fun and flair to this unique retro-styled appliance
- Simple program dial: easily navigate cooking settings with simple turn-and-push program dial
Emerson MWRG0901RD 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, Red 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 Red Design: The glossy red 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.
Emerson MWRG0901BK Retro Compact Countertop 800W Microwave Oven with 1,000W Grill Function, LED Display, 5 Power Levels, 8 Auto Menus, Glass Turntable and Child Safe Lock, 0.9 Cu. Ft., Black
- 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 Black Design: The glossy black 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.
Nostalgia Retro Countertop Microwave Oven – Large 800-Watt – 0.9 cu ft – 12 Pre-Programmed Cooking Settings – Digital Clock & Hamilton Beach Electric Automatic Can Opener
- Product 1: 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.
- Product 1: 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.
- Product 1: 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.
- Product 1: 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.
- Product 2: OPENS CANS THE FIRST TIME: This electric can opener has SureCut technology to easily align cans, ensuring cans open the first time, every time. No more struggling with cans when you’re in a hurry to get a meal on the table.
- Product 2: EASY TO CLEAN: The removable cutting unit on the Hamilton Beach can opener makes cleanup simple. It’s easy to detach and is dishwasher safe.
- Product 2: OPENS SMALL TO LARGE CANS WITH EXTRA-TALL DESIGN: With its extra-tall design, this automatic can opener easily opens a wide range of different-sized cans, including taller cans.
- Product 2: AUTOMATIC SHUTOFF. This Hamilton Beach can opener automatically shuts off, freeing your hands for other kitchen tasks.
Nostalgia Retro Countertop Microwave Oven – Large 800-Watt – 0.9 cu ft & BISSELL CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum, Fits In Dorm Rooms & Apartments
- Product 1: 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.
- Product 1: 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.
- Product 1: 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.
- Product 1: 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.
- Product 2: EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS. BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.
- Product 2: SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY. Captures messes on hard floors with less scatter.
- Product 2: POWERFUL SUCTION. Convenient, powerful cleaning in one machine.
- Product 2: LIGHTWEIGHT AND MANEUVERABLE. Weighs less than 8 pounds, so it’s easy to transport.
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 prioritize when choosing a budget 800‑watt microwave?
Focus on interior capacity, power level options, and the variety of preset cooking programs. A clear LED display and an easy‑to‑use dial or button layout will make daily use smoother. Also consider any extra functions, like a grill, that add cooking versatility without raising the price too much.
How do the Nostalgia retro microwaves compare to the Emerson models?
Both brands offer 0.9 cu ft, 800‑watt units with a vintage look, but Emerson adds a built‑in 1,000 watt grill function for browning and crisping. Nostalgia models rely on 12 pre‑programmed settings and a simple turn‑and‑push dial, while Emerson provides more buttons and smart defrost options. If you value grill capability, Emerson is the clear winner; otherwise, Nostalgia gives a classic aesthetic at a lower cost.
Is the grill function worth the extra cost?
The grill lets you achieve toasted or caramelized results that a standard microwave cannot, making it useful for pizza, casseroles, and reheating leftovers with a crisp finish. For users who rarely need that feature, the added price may not be justified. However, if you enjoy a wider range of cooking styles, the grill adds significant value.
Do the preset cooking settings make a difference in everyday use?
Yes, preset programs such as popcorn, pizza, and defrost save time by automatically selecting optimal power and time settings. Nostalgia models include 12 presets, while Emerson offers eight auto‑menus plus weight‑based defrost. Having these shortcuts reduces guesswork and helps achieve consistent results.
How important is the LED clock and display readability?
A bright, easy‑to‑read LED clock helps you monitor cooking time at a glance and reduces eye strain, especially in low‑light kitchens. All listed models feature LED displays, but the contrast and size vary; Emerson’s display is noted for its clear illumination, while Nostalgia’s is functional but more basic. Choose the one that best fits your visibility preferences.
What are the cleaning and maintenance considerations for these microwaves?
Smooth, glossy exteriors and removable turntables make routine cleaning straightforward for both brands. Retro chrome or chromed accents can attract fingerprints, so a quick wipe with a damp cloth is recommended. Emerson’s grill cavity may require occasional degreasing, whereas Nostalgia models lack that extra component.
Will the compact 0.9 cu ft size limit my cooking options?
A 0.9 cu ft interior is ideal for most households, fitting standard plates, bowls, and a small pizza. Larger dishes or multi‑layer cooking may be constrained, but the 800‑watt power still delivers quick reheating and basic cooking tasks. If you frequently cook big roasts or multiple dishes at once, you might need a larger unit.
How does price relate to the overall value of these retro microwaves?
Nostalgia models typically offer a lower price point while delivering essential features like presets, a clear clock, and a stylish retro finish. Emerson units cost a bit more but include the grill function, additional power levels, and more sophisticated defrost options, which can justify the premium for power users. Assess your cooking habits to decide which balance of cost and capability fits your budget.