Comparison: Red Microwave 800W Best Price (Updated | Dec 8th)

For tight spaces, a 0.7‑0.9 cu ft microwave is usually enough to handle single‑serve meals, snacks, and reheating leftovers. Models like the FRIGIDAIRE EMW788RETRO (0.7 cu ft) and the Nostalgia RMO4RR (0.9 cu ft) fit comfortably on a countertop while still offering enough interior room for most everyday dishes. If you often cook larger plates or family‑size portions, consider the 1.1 cu ft FRIGIDAIRE EMW1132 for extra space.

Higher wattage units, such as the 1000‑W FRIGIDAIRE EMW1132, heat food faster and can more evenly cook dense items like frozen meals or large potatoes. An 800‑W model, like most Nostalgia retro microwaves, still provides solid performance for typical reheating and popcorn but may need a few extra seconds for heavier dishes. Choose wattage based on how quickly you want food done and the types of meals you prepare most often.

Pre‑programmed settings simplify cooking by automatically selecting power level and time for common foods such as popcorn, pizza, and vegetables. Models with 12‑program menus, like the Nostalgia RMO4RR and B09SBV7GJK, can save you guesswork and reduce the risk of over‑cooking. If you prefer manual control, a basic microwave with fewer presets may be cheaper, but the convenience often justifies the price difference.

Look for models that include a child lock, such as the COMFEE’ Retro Microwave with a two‑step lock and the FRIGIDAIRE EMW953RED, which also features a child safety lock. These locks prevent accidental activation and keep curious kids from tampering with the controls. Adding a lock does not affect cooking performance, making it a valuable safety investment.

The retro styling mainly affects aesthetics—chrome knobs, vintage color panels, and classic shapes—while the core cooking components remain standard. All listed retro models, including the Nostalgia and FRIGIDAIRE retro lines, use the same 800‑900 W magnetron technology as contemporary units, so performance is comparable. Choose a retro design if you want a decorative touch without sacrificing functionality.

A rotating glass turntable, found on most models like the FRIGIDAIRE EMW953RED and Nostalgia RMO4BK, helps distribute microwave energy evenly, reducing hot spots. Flat‑bed microwaves can offer more interior space but may require a turntable‑compatible dish or manual stirring for uniform cooking. For most home users, a turntable provides the easiest way to achieve consistent results.

Considering features, capacity, and wattage, the Nostalgia RMO4RR offers a solid balance with 800 W power, 12 preset programs, and a 0.9 cu ft interior at a competitive price point. The FRIGIDAIRE EMW1132, while more powerful at 1000 W and larger at 1.1 cu ft, typically costs more, making it a better choice only if you need the extra capacity and power. For budget‑focused shoppers, the COMFEE’ Retro Microwave provides many features—including child lock and multi‑stage cooking—at a lower price.

Features like a mute function (found on the COMFEE’ model) can be handy for open‑plan living spaces, while a delay timer lets you schedule cooking to start later. Some units also offer speed/weight defrost, which automatically adjusts time based on food weight for quicker thawing. Evaluate which of these conveniences align with your cooking habits to get the most out of your purchase.