The Best Microwave Oven 800w – Your Ultimate Buyer Guide

Picking the right microwave can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re narrowing your search to a reliable microwave oven 800w that fits your daily needs without breaking the bank. Many shoppers struggle to cut through marketing jargon to find a model that heats food evenly, fits their kitchen space, and holds up to regular use without frequent repairs. This guide cuts through the noise to give you clear, unbiased insights to help you make a confident choice. You’ll find a detailed comparison table of top-rated options, plus practical buying tips tailored to different household sizes, budgets, and cooking habits. Whether you’re upgrading an old unit or buying your first microwave, we’ve got you covered with all the information you need to pick a model that works for you long-term.

Our Top 10 Microwave Oven 800W Side-by-Side

Image	Product	Highlights	Check Price
	BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu.Ft 700W Stainless Steel Microwave	Compact, affordable option perfect for small spaces and basic daily heating needs.	Check Price
	Breville BMO850BSS Smooth Wave Brushed Stainless Microwave	Premium, intuitive pick for home cooks who want even, consistent heating for all food types.	Check Price
	GE Profile 1.1 Cu.Ft 800W Stainless Steel Countertop Micr…	Spacious, high-power option ideal for families who need to heat large portions quickly.	Check Price
	Nostalgia Retro 0.9 Cu.Ft 800W Metallic Red Microwave	Stylish, high-performance retro pick that doesn’t sacrifice power or capacity for looks.	Check Price
	COMFEE’ 0.7 Cu.Ft 700W Cream Retro Microwave	Compact, stylish budget pick perfect for small spaces and casual everyday cooking.	Check Price
	Emerson Retro 0.9 Cu. Ft. Grill Countertop Microwave	Offers grill functionality and solid capacity at an unbeatable budget price, perfect for cost-conscious buyers.	Check Price
	Galanz Retro 0.9 Cu. Ft. Green Pull-Handle Microwave	Solves the frustration of slippery microwave doors with its easy-grip pull handle and auto functions for hassle-free cooking.	Check Price
	Sharp R-20MT 20-Liter 220V 800W Countertop Microwave	Perfect for international users and RV travelers needing a reliable 220V microwave with solid heating performance.	Check Price
	Nostalgia RMO4BK Retro 0.9 Cu. Ft. Jet Black Microwave	Stands out with 12 cook settings and sleek retro jet black design for versatile, stylish countertop use.	Check Price
	Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700W Countertop Microwave with Mute	Eliminates annoying beeps and wasted energy with a mute button and eco mode, ideal for shared spaces.	Check Price

Detailed Review of Top 10 Microwave Oven 800W

The microwave oven 800w is a go-to choice for most households because it hits the sweet spot between power, energy efficiency, and affordability for everyday cooking tasks like reheating leftovers, defrosting meat, and making quick snacks. It’s perfect for singles, couples, and small families who don’t need the heavy-duty power of commercial-grade models but want reliable performance for daily use. In our Top 10 microwave oven 800w Reviewed section, we break down the highest-rated options on the market, comparing key specs, real-world performance, and value to help you find the perfect fit for your kitchen and budget.

1. BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu.Ft 700W Stainless Steel Microwave

We’ve all stood in a small apartment or break room waiting for a bulky microwave to finish heating a single cup of soup, wasting time and counter space. This compact BLACK+DECKER model solves that exact frustration without sacrificing core functionality. It fits easily on tight countertops next to a coffee maker or toaster, and still has enough capacity for a full bowl of leftovers or a frozen dinner for one.

The simple digital controls are intuitive even for people who hate complicated kitchen gadgets, and the stainless steel finish wipes clean in seconds after messy spills of soup or sauce. It runs quieter than many larger countertop models, so it won’t disrupt conversations, work calls, or late-night snack runs while running. For renters, dorm students, or anyone with limited kitchen space, it’s a no-fuss, reliable choice for everyday heating, defrosting, and quick meal prep tasks.

• Small footprint fits tight counter spaces
• Easy-to-use digital control panel
• Stainless steel interior wipes clean effortlessly
• Affordable price point for budget buyers
• Quiet operation compared to larger models

• 700W power means slightly longer heat times than 800W units
• Limited capacity for large family meals

Get the BLACK+DECKER 0.7 Cu.Ft 700W Stainless Steel Microwave now:

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2. Breville BMO850BSS Smooth Wave Brushed Stainless Microwave

If you regularly reheat delicate dishes like soups, casseroles, or baked goods that end up with cold spots or rubbery edges in standard microwaves, this Breville model is built for you. It uses specialized sensor cooking technology that automatically adjusts power levels to avoid over- or under-heating, so your leftovers taste just as fresh as they did when first made.

The smooth, brushed stainless steel exterior looks sleek on any countertop, and the soft-close door adds a premium touch that feels far more durable than cheap plastic models found in budget microwaves. It heats food evenly from edge to edge, so you never have to stop mid-meal to stir or rotate your dish to get rid of cold spots, making it ideal for anyone who hates unevenly heated leftovers.

• Sensor cooking eliminates cold spots and over-heating
• Soft-close door for quiet, premium operation
• Sleek brushed stainless finish matches high-end kitchens
• Even heating for delicate foods like baked goods
• Easy-to-clean interior and exterior surfaces
• Multiple preset settings for common cooking tasks

• Higher price point than basic countertop microwaves
• Larger footprint takes up more counter space

Get the Breville BMO850BSS Smooth Wave Brushed Stainless Microwave now:

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3. GE Profile 1.1 Cu.Ft 800W Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave

The 1.1 cubic foot interior and 800W power output set this GE Profile microwave apart from smaller, lower-watt competitors, giving you plenty of room for full dinner plates and family-sized portions without crowding the interior. It’s one of the few countertop models in this power class that doesn’t feel cramped when heating multiple items at once.

It’s designed for households that need a reliable workhorse microwave for daily use, from heating up kids’ lunch leftovers to defrosting ground meat for weeknight dinners in minutes without partial thawing. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel exterior stays looking clean even with heavy use from messy hands or splattered food, and the intuitive touch controls make it easy to select the right settings without fumbling through complicated menus or instruction manuals.

• Large 1.1 cu ft interior fits full dinner plates and casserole dishes
• 800W power for fast, even heating and defrosting
• Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish stays clean
• Sensor cooking adjusts power automatically for best results
• Easy-to-read LED display and simple touch controls
• Sturdy construction built for frequent daily use

• Slightly heavier than smaller compact models
• Preset menus are limited compared to premium brands

Get the GE Profile 1.1 Cu.Ft 800W Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave now:

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4. Nostalgia Retro 0.9 Cu.Ft 800W Metallic Red Microwave

If you’ve ever been drawn to the fun, retro aesthetic of vintage-style microwaves only to be disappointed by clunky dials, weak performance, or tiny interiors that can’t fit a full dinner plate, this Nostalgia model fixes all those common flaws. It skips the dated, hard-to-use controls of cheaper retro models in favor of modern, responsive digital buttons.

It combines the eye-catching metallic red finish and retro chrome accents that look great in farmhouse, mid-century, or eclectic kitchen decor, with modern 800W power and a spacious 0.9 cubic foot interior that actually performs as well as plain, boring standard models. The 12 pre-programmed settings make cooking popcorn, baked potatoes, or frozen vegetables foolproof, even for people who rarely use kitchen appliances and don’t want to guess at timing.

• Eye-catching retro design fits unique kitchen decor styles
• 800W power matches standard microwave performance
• Spacious 0.9 cu ft interior fits full dinner plates
• 12 pre-programmed settings for common cooking tasks
• Digital clock and easy-to-use touch controls
• Stainless steel interior wipes clean easily

• Retro chrome accents can show fingerprints easily
• Louder operation than plain stainless steel models

Get the Nostalgia Retro 0.9 Cu.Ft 800W Metallic Red Microwave now: (See Also:General Electric Microwave Oven Combo)

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5. COMFEE’ 0.7 Cu.Ft 700W Cream Retro Microwave

Imagine a young professional coming home from a long day, grabbing a leftover pasta bowl from the fridge, and popping it into their small apartment microwave to heat in under two minutes without taking up half the counter. That’s exactly the use case this COMFEE’ retro model is built for, combining a soft cream finish that fits light, cozy kitchen decor with simple, reliable performance for everyday small-space cooking.

It has 9 preset menus for common tasks like popcorn, pizza, and defrosting, so you don’t have to guess at time and power settings, even if you’re a total cooking novice who only uses a microwave for quick meals and snacks. The soft cream finish looks warm and inviting in small kitchens, dorm rooms, or office break areas, and the compact size tucks away easily when not in use to save valuable counter space.

• Soft cream finish fits light, cozy kitchen aesthetics
• Compact 0.7 cu ft size perfect for small spaces
• 9 preset menus eliminate guesswork for common tasks
• Simple, intuitive controls for first-time microwave users
• Affordable price point ideal for renters and students
• Easy-to-clean interior for quick mess cleanup

• 700W power means slightly longer heat times than 800W models
• Limited capacity for large or multiple food items

Get the COMFEE’ 0.7 Cu.Ft 700W Cream Retro Microwave now:

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6. Emerson Retro 0.9 Cu. Ft. Grill Countertop Microwave

If you’re shopping for a microwave on a tight budget, the Emerson Retro 0.9 Cu. Ft. Grill Countertop Microwave delivers far more features than you’d expect for its low price point. It packs a 0.9 cubic foot interior that’s spacious enough for most family meals, plus a built-in grill function that lets you crisp up pizza, melt cheese on sandwiches, or finish leftovers without switching to an oven. The retro styling also means it won’t look out of place in a kitchen that leans into vintage decor, so you don’t have to sacrifice aesthetics to save money.

In day-to-day use, the 800-watt power heats food evenly, and the simple control panel makes it easy for anyone in the household to operate, from teens to older adults. The glass turntable rotates smoothly to prevent cold spots, and the interior is easy to wipe down after messy spills, which is a big plus for busy households. You even get basic preset functions for common tasks like popcorn and defrosting, so you don’t have to guess timing for everyday items.

• Built-in grill function for crisping and browning food
• Spacious 0.9 cu. ft. interior fits large plates and bowls
• Retro styling matches vintage or eclectic kitchen decor
• 800-watt power ensures fast, even heating
• Easy-to-clean interior and smooth glass turntable
• Affordable price point for its feature set
• Simple, intuitive control panel for all users

• No advanced smart features or app connectivity
• Grill function takes slightly longer than dedicated grills

Get the Emerson Retro 0.9 Cu. Ft. Grill Countertop Microwave now:

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7. Galanz Retro 0.9 Cu. Ft. Green Pull-Handle Microwave

If you’ve ever struggled with a stuck or slippery microwave door handle, especially when your hands are wet or full of groceries, the Galanz Retro 0.9 Cu. Ft. Green Pull-Handle Microwave is designed to fix that exact annoyance. Its chunky, easy-to-grip pull handle makes opening and closing the door effortless, even when you’re carrying something heavy or have messy cooking hands. The soft green retro finish also adds a playful pop of color to your countertop, so it works as a functional appliance and a small style statement for your kitchen.

Beyond the handle, this 800-watt microwave comes packed with user-friendly auto cook and reheat functions that take the guesswork out of meal prep. You don’t have to fiddle with time and power settings for common items like leftovers, frozen dinners, or veggies – just select the preset and let the microwave do the work. The glass turntable rotates smoothly to heat food evenly, and the smooth interior wipes clean in seconds if you have a sauce splatter or melted cheese mess, which is ideal for busy weeknight cooking.

• Easy-grip pull handle eliminates slippery door frustration
• Auto cook and reheat presets for no-fuss meal prep
• Vibrant green retro finish adds kitchen style
• 800-watt power for fast, even heating
• Smooth glass turntable prevents cold spots in food
• Easy-wipe interior for quick cleanup after spills
• Compact 0.9 cu. ft. footprint fits small counter spaces

• Fewer power level options than premium models
• No child safety lock included

Get the Galanz Retro 0.9 Cu. Ft. Green Pull-Handle Microwave now:

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8. Sharp R-20MT 20-Liter 220V 800W Countertop Microwave

The Sharp R-20MT 20-Liter 800W Microwave is purpose-built for anyone living outside the US, or for RV and campervan owners who rely on 220-volt power systems, making it a rare find for this user group. Unlike most consumer microwaves sold in North America that run on 120V, this model is designed to plug directly into standard 220V outlets common in Europe, Asia, and many recreational vehicles, so you don’t have to mess with bulky voltage converters. Its compact 20-liter interior is still large enough to heat full meals, reheat leftovers, or pop a bag of popcorn without taking up too much counter or storage space.

In real-world use, the 800-watt power delivers consistent, even heating, so you won’t end up with cold spots in the middle of your food or burnt edges on the outside. The simple control panel has just the essential functions you need, no extra frills that drive up the price, and the durable construction holds up well to frequent use, whether it’s in a permanent kitchen or a moving RV. The easy-clean interior makes wiping down after messy spills quick, which is a big plus for anyone on the go or managing a busy household abroad.

• Designed for 220V power systems, no converter needed for international use
• Compact 20-liter interior fits small spaces and RVs
• 800-watt power for fast, even heating
• Durable construction built for frequent, long-term use
• Simple, no-frills control panel for easy operation
• Easy-wipe interior for quick cleanup
• Reliable Sharp brand reputation for appliance longevity

• Not compatible with standard 120V US household outlets
• Fewer preset cooking functions than domestic models

Get the Sharp R-20MT 20-Liter 220V 800W Countertop Microwave now:

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9. Nostalgia RMO4BK Retro 0.9 Cu. Ft. Jet Black Microwave

The single feature that sets the Nostalgia RMO4BK Retro 0.9 Cu. Ft. Jet Black Microwave apart from other retro-style models is its massive library of 12 cook settings, which covers almost every common kitchen task you can think of. Unlike budget microwaves that only have 3 or 4 presets, this one lets you cook everything from baked potatoes and frozen vegetables to bacon and even small cakes, all with the touch of a button. The deep jet black finish with chrome accents gives it a polished, vintage-inspired look that works in both modern and retro-themed kitchens, so it’s as much a style piece as it is a functional appliance.

In daily use, the 800-watt power heats food evenly across the 0.9 cubic foot interior, which is large enough to fit full dinner plates, casserole dishes, and even medium-sized pizza boxes. The LED display is bright and easy to read, even in low kitchen lighting, and the 5 adjustable power levels let you fine-tune heating for delicate items like chocolate or slow-cook stews without burning them. The smooth glass turntable rotates quietly, and the interior is coated to resist stains and make cleanup after messy spills a breeze. (See Also:Microwave Duct Adapter)

• 12 cook settings cover nearly every common cooking task
• Sleek jet black retro design fits most kitchen decor styles
• Spacious 0.9 cu. ft. interior fits large dishes and plates
• 800-watt power for fast, even heating
• Bright, easy-to-read LED display
• 5 adjustable power levels for delicate cooking tasks
• Easy-clean interior resists stains and spills

• Control panel has a slight learning curve due to the number of settings
• Turntable can be noisy on high power settings

Get the Nostalgia RMO4BK Retro 0.9 Cu. Ft. Jet Black Microwave now:

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10. Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700W Countertop Microwave with Mute

If you’ve ever been frustrated by the loud, persistent beeps a microwave makes when it finishes heating, especially when you’re working late, have a sleeping baby in the house, or are in a shared office space, the Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700W Countertop Microwave solves that exact pain point with its dedicated mute button. Unlike most microwaves that only let you turn down the volume, this model lets you silence all beeps entirely, so you can heat your food without disturbing anyone around you. It also has an eco mode that cuts power to the display and standby functions when not in use, so you don’t have to worry about it eating up electricity on your utility bill.

Despite its smaller 0.7 cubic foot footprint, this microwave still packs 10 power levels and 6 one-touch express cook presets that make meal prep fast and easy, from reheating leftovers to making quick popcorn. The child safety lock prevents accidental operation by curious kids, which is a big plus for families, and the smooth glass turntable heats food evenly without cold spots. The compact size makes it perfect for small apartments, dorm rooms, office break rooms, or even as a secondary microwave in a large kitchen, where you don’t need a full-size model.

• Dedicated mute button silences all beeps for quiet operation
• Eco mode reduces standby power usage to save energy
• 10 power levels for precise heating control
• 6 one-touch express cook presets for fast meal prep
• Built-in child safety lock for family households
• Compact 0.7 cu. ft. footprint fits small spaces
• Even heating from smooth glass turntable

• Lower 700-watt power heats slightly slower than 800W models
• Smaller interior can’t fit large dinner plates or casserole dishes

Get the Chefman 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700W Countertop Microwave with Mute now:

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Ultimate Buying Guide for Microwave Oven 800W

1. What Is a microwave oven 800w?

A microwave oven 800w is a mid-power countertop or built-in kitchen appliance that uses 800 watts of electromagnetic energy to heat, defrost, and cook small portions of food quickly. It’s the most popular wattage for everyday household use, as it balances speed, energy efficiency, and affordability better than lower or higher-wattage models. Most users rely on these units for daily tasks like reheating leftovers, defrosting frozen meat or vegetables, popping popcorn, and cooking quick meals like oatmeal or mug cakes. It’s an ideal pick for singles, couples, and small families who want fast, convenient cooking without the space or cost of a full-size oven.

2. Key Features That Actually Matter

When shopping for a microwave oven 800w, don’t get distracted by flashy gimmicky features that you’ll never use. Instead, prioritize core attributes that directly impact daily usability, longevity, and overall value. The most important factors to evaluate are listed below.

• Performance in everyday scenarios: Look for models that heat food evenly, without cold spots, and defrost items consistently without cooking the edges. Even heating is the most important feature for daily use, as uneven performance leads to wasted food and frustration.
• Build quality and durability: Units with sturdy exterior finishes, solid door latches, and scratch-resistant interior coatings hold up to regular use far better than cheap, flimsy models. Durable construction reduces the risk of breakdowns and extends the unit’s usable lifespan.
• Ease of setup and maintenance: Choose models with intuitive control panels, easy-to-clean interiors, and straightforward installation (for built-in units) to reduce hassle. Removable turntables and non-stick coatings make cleanup fast, even after messy spills.
• Size, capacity, and fit: Measure your available counter or cabinet space before shopping, and pick a capacity that matches your household needs. A 0.7 to 1.2 cubic foot capacity works for 1-2 people, while 1.3 to 1.8 cubic feet suits small families.
• Value at different budgets: Basic budget models cost under $100 and work for light use, while mid-range options ($100-$200) add useful features like sensor cooking and longer warranties. Premium models over $200 include smart controls and extra capacity for frequent users.
• Brand reliability and warranty: Reputable brands offer consistent quality and responsive customer support, plus warranties of at least one year to cover defects. Avoid no-name brands with limited or no warranty coverage.
• Compatibility with existing setups: If you’re replacing a built-in microwave, confirm the new unit’s dimensions, mounting kit, and power requirements match your existing cutout and kitchen wiring to avoid costly installation adjustments.

3. How to Choose the Right microwave oven 800w

Start by assessing your typical usage frequency and household size to narrow down your options. If you only reheat meals a few times a week and have limited space, a compact basic model will meet your needs without extra cost. If you cook for a family daily and regularly defrost large items, prioritize models with even heating, large capacities, and durable interiors. Set a realistic budget based on your needs: mid-range models often offer the best balance of performance and useful features for most households, while budget options work for light use and premium models suit frequent cooks who want extra convenience. Cross-reference your top priorities with the picks in our Top 10 list to find options that align with your lifestyle, space constraints, and budget.

4. Common Buyer Mistakes to Avoid

Many first-time microwave buyers make avoidable errors that lead to frustration, wasted money, or a unit that doesn’t meet their needs. Keep these common pitfalls in mind as you shop:

• Overestimating your space needs: Buying a large capacity model that doesn’t fit your counter or cabinet leads to costly returns or expensive modification work. Measure your available space first, and leave 3-4 inches of clearance on all sides for proper ventilation before shopping.
• Ignoring interior coating quality: Cheap non-stick interiors scratch and stain easily after a few months of use, making cleanup a hassle and shortening the unit’s lifespan. Look for models with scratch-resistant ceramic or enamel coatings if you plan to use the microwave frequently.
• Prioritizing extra features over core performance: Fancy smart controls, preset buttons, and decorative finishes are useless if the microwave heats food unevenly or defrosts poorly. Read user reviews that mention real-world heating performance before making a purchase.
• Skipping warranty checks: Brands that offer no warranty or only 90-day coverage often use lower-quality parts that fail quickly. Opt for models with at least a 1-year warranty to protect your investment and get support if defects arise.
• Forgetting about installation compatibility: If you’re replacing an old built-in microwave, failing to confirm the new unit’s dimensions, mounting kit, and power requirements match your existing cutout and kitchen wiring can lead to expensive installation headaches or the need to hire a professional.

Microwave Oven 800W FAQs: Common Questions Answered

Is 800w enough for most household cooking?

Yes, 800w is ideal for most everyday household tasks like reheating leftovers, defrosting frozen foods, and cooking quick meals. It heats food faster than lower-wattage models without the high energy costs of 1000w+ units, making it a practical pick for small to mid-sized households with regular cooking needs. (See Also:Hood Fan Microwave)

Can I use a microwave oven 800w for defrosting meat?

Absolutely, 800w is well-suited for defrosting most cuts of meat, poultry, and seafood when used on the correct defrost setting. Many models include sensor defrost features that adjust power automatically to prevent cooking the outer edges of food while the center remains frozen.

How long does a microwave oven 800w typically last?

With proper care and regular cleaning, a quality microwave oven 800w will last 7 to 10 years on average. Lower-quality models may only last 3 to 5 years, while well-maintained units from reputable brands can exceed 10 years with minimal issues.

Is a microwave oven 800w energy efficient?

Yes, 800w models are more energy efficient than higher-wattage units for small to mid-sized portions, as they use less power to heat food quickly. They also draw less electricity than full-size ovens or stovetops for simple tasks like reheating, which can lower your monthly utility bills over time.

Do I need special ventilation for a microwave oven 800w?

Most countertop microwave oven 800w models only require a few inches of clearance on all sides for proper ventilation, no special installation needed. Built-in models may need dedicated ventilation cutouts in your cabinetry, so check the manufacturer’s installation guidelines before purchase to avoid overheating issues.

Can I put metal dishes in a microwave oven 800w?

No, you should never put metal dishes, utensils, or containers with metallic accents in a microwave oven 800w, as metal reflects microwaves and can cause sparks, fires, or damage to the unit. Stick to microwave-safe glass, ceramic, or plastic containers for all cooking and reheating tasks.

Final Verdict

Choosing the right microwave oven 800w doesn’t have to be a stressful, guesswork-filled process. By focusing on your actual usage needs, space constraints, and budget, you can narrow down the top-rated options to find a model that delivers consistent performance for years. Whether you’re a busy professional who only needs to reheat meals or a small family that cooks daily, there’s a microwave oven 800w on the market that fits your lifestyle perfectly. Use the tips and comparisons in this guide to make an informed choice, and you’ll end up with a reliable kitchen workhorse that makes meal prep faster and easier every day.