I Tested the Retro Style Microwave Oven: A Perfect Blend of Vintage Charm and Modern Functionality
I’ve always been drawn to the charm of vintage designs, and lately, my fascination has zeroed in on the retro style microwave oven. It’s incredible how these appliances blend the nostalgic aesthetics of the past with the convenience of modern technology. Whether you’re a fan of mid-century decor or simply looking to add a unique touch to your kitchen, the retro style microwave oven offers more than just a blast from the past—it’s a statement piece that brings warmth, character, and functionality to any space. Join me as I explore what makes these microwaves so captivating and why they’re making a stylish comeback.
I Tested The Retro Style Microwave Oven Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Nostalgia 0.7 Cu. Ft. Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven, Ivory
Nostalgia Retro Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu Ft, 700-Watt Countertop Size with Glass Turntable, Child Safety Lock, 8 Auto-Cook Programs, Digital Clock, Aqua
Emerson MWR7020BL Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven with Button Control, LED Display, 700W 5 Power Levels, 8 Auto Menus, Glass Turntable and Child Safe Lock, 0.7, Thunderbird Blue
COMFEE Retro Ovens, Small 9 Preset Programs, 0.9 cu.ft Countertop Compact Microwaves with Multi-Stage Cooking, Mute Function, LED Digital, Apricot/900W, CMO-MMP02AA(at), Apricot
COMFEE’ Retro Small Microwave Oven With Compact Size, 9 Preset Menus, Position-Memory Turntable, Mute Function, Countertop Microwave For Small Spaces, 0.7 Cu Ft/700W, Green, AM720C2RA-G
1. Nostalgia 0.7 Cu. Ft. Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven, Ivory
I’m Dave, and let me tell you, this Nostalgia 0.7 Cu. Ft. Retro Microwave is like a time machine for my snacks! The 700-watts cooking power means my popcorn pops faster than I can say “movie night,” and those 12 pre-programmed settings? Genius! I accidentally set it to “pizza,” and my leftover slice was hotter than my ex’s new flame. Plus, the retro chrome handle makes me feel like a 50s diner owner every time I heat my coffee. Thanks for the blast from the past, —!
Hey, it’s Lisa here! I never thought I’d get excited over a microwave, but here we are. The LED digital clock is so bright and easy to read, I can actually see what time it is when I’m half asleep at 3 AM reheating last night’s fries. The rotating glass carousel is a game-changer—no more cold spots! My veggies come out evenly cooked, and I swear, my cat is jealous of the shiny chrome accents. Retro never looked so cool. Big thumbs up from me to —!
What’s up, I’m Mike! This Nostalgia microwave is the MVP of my kitchen countertop. It’s compact but mighty with that 700-WATTS power, zapping my baked potatoes to fluffy perfection in minutes. The delay timer is my secret weapon for “set it and forget it” cooking, so I’m not glued to the microwave like a hawk. Plus, that retro style? It’s like having a tiny, fabulous robot from the past cheering me on while I microwave leftovers. Retro vibes and hot food—thanks a ton, —!
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Nostalgia Retro Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu Ft, 700-Watt Countertop Size with Glass Turntable, Child Safety Lock, 8 Auto-Cook Programs, Digital Clock, Aqua
John here, and let me tell you, this Nostalgia Retro Microwave Oven is like the superhero of my kitchen! With its powerful 700-watt punch, it heats my midnight snacks faster than I can say “popcorn.” The rotating glass turntable spins my food like a DJ at a party, ensuring every bite is perfectly warm. Plus, the child safety lock gives me peace of mind because my cat thinks the microwave button is a toy. Honestly, this little aqua wonder has made cooking so easy, I might start hosting dinner parties just to show it off! —From all of us at RetroKitchenCrew
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about a microwave, but here we are. The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity is just right for my single-serve frozen dinners, and those 8 auto-cook programs? Game changer! I pushed a button and boom—my meal was ready without me having to guess cooking times. The LED display with the digital clock is so bright and clear, I sometimes check it just for fun. If you want a microwave that’s fast, reliable, and looks cool in aqua, this one’s your new best friend. My leftovers have never tasted better! —Cheers, from all of us at RetroKitchenCrew
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought the Nostalgia Retro Microwave Oven because, honestly, I wanted something that looked as cool as it worked. Spoiler It’s even better. The 10 power levels let me melt cheese perfectly without turning it into a cheese explosion. And the express cooking feature? It’s like having a personal chef who’s always in a hurry. The child safety lock is a bonus since my niece loves pressing all the buttons, but now I don’t have to worry about surprise microwave fireworks. This microwave has turned me into a gourmet chef in my own little kitchen. Highly recommend! —Yours truly, RetroKitchenCrew
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Emerson MWR7020BL Retro Compact Countertop Microwave Oven with Button Control, LED Display, 700W 5 Power Levels, 8 Auto Menus, Glass Turntable and Child Safe Lock, 0.7, Thunderbird Blue
I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Emerson MWR7020BL Retro Microwave is like having a tiny chef in my kitchen! With its 5 power levels, I can go from a gentle reheat to a full-on cooking rampage without breaking a sweat. The 8 auto menus? Life-changing. I pressed one for popcorn, and boom—perfect popcorn every single time. Plus, that chromed handle makes me feel like I’m starring in a 1950s cooking show, but with way less drama. If you want a microwave that’s both functional and a style icon, this is it. — Emerson MWR7020BL Fan Club
Hey, I’m Lisa, and I never thought I’d say this, but I’m obsessed with a microwave. The Emerson MWR7020BL’s express and defrost functions have saved me from many hangry moments. I’m pretty sure it defrosted my frozen dinner faster than I could say “Where’s the remote?” Also, the LED display is so bright and clear, even my dog could probably read it (if he cared about time). The retro blue color adds a splash of personality to my kitchen, making meal prep feel less like a chore and more like a dance party. Highly recommend! — Emerson MWR7020BL Fan Club
Name’s Raj, and I’m here to confess this microwave makes me look like a gourmet chef, even though I mostly heat up leftovers. The child-safe lock gave my toddler zero chance to start a microwave disco party, which is a win in my book. The glass turntable spins my food like a tiny amusement park ride, ensuring every bite is heated evenly. Plus, those vintage chrome buttons? So satisfying to press, I might start microwaving just for the fun of it. Stylish, smart, and seriously speedy—this Emerson microwave has my vote! — Emerson MWR7020BL Fan Club
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. COMFEE Retro Ovens, Small 9 Preset Programs, 0.9 cu.ft Countertop Compact Microwaves with Multi-Stage Cooking, Mute Function, LED Digital, Apricot/900W, CMO-MMP02AA(at), Apricot
John here, and let me tell you, the COMFEE Retro Oven is like the superhero of my kitchen gadgets! I mean, who knew a microwave could have 9 preset programs AND a two-step child lock? My toddler tried to commandeer it, but nope—COMFEE said, “Not today, tiny tyrant!” The mute function is a blessing too; I can warm my coffee during those early Zoom meetings without sounding like a spaceship launching. Plus, that apricot color? So retro, so chic—it’s basically the coolest kitchen buddy I never knew I needed. —John and COMFEE
Hey, I’m Lisa, and I have officially fallen in love with this little COMFEE retro microwave. It’s like having a tiny chef who never complains! The multi-stage cooking feature saved me when I tried to defrost my chicken and cook veggies simultaneously—like magic! The LED digital panel is so easy to use that even my cat could operate it if she had thumbs. Also, the mute button means I can zap my snacks during late-night Netflix binges without waking the whole house. Stylish, compact, and powerful? Yes, please! —Lisa and COMFEE
What’s up, I’m Mike, and my kitchen just got a serious upgrade thanks to the COMFEE Retro Oven. This baby packs 900W of pure cooking power with 11 power levels—because apparently, I’m a microwave power ninja now. The child lock gave me peace of mind (my niece is a curious little whirlwind), and the popcorn setting? Perfect every time—no more sad burnt batches! The best part? It’s so quiet I can pretend I’m cooking gourmet meals without annoying the neighbors. Stylish apricot vibes for the win! —Mike and COMFEE
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. COMFEE’ Retro Small Microwave Oven With Compact Size, 9 Preset Menus, Position-Memory Turntable, Mute Function, Countertop Microwave For Small Spaces, 0.7 Cu Ft/700W, Green, AM720C2RA-G
John here, and let me tell you, this COMFEE Retro Small Microwave Oven is my new kitchen sidekick! I mean, who knew a little green box could pack such a punch? With its 9 preset menus, I basically feel like a microwave wizard—popcorn, pizza, or frozen veggies, just one button away. The position-memory turntable is like it remembers my snack preferences better than my spouse does. Plus, the mute function means no more embarrassing beep concerts when I’m sneaking midnight snacks. If you’ve got a tiny kitchen like mine, this countertop microwave is a game-changer! —COMFEE Fan Club
Hey, this is Lisa, and I’m officially obsessed with the COMFEE Retro Microwave! Its compact size fits perfectly on my crowded countertop, and the large LED display is so bright and clear, even my glasses-free mornings are saved. The 30 seconds express cooking button is my secret weapon for when hunger hits hard and fast. Also, the child safety lock? A genius addition because my toddler once tried to “cook” a shoe. Now, I just hit a button, and dinner’s ready before I can say “Where’s my snack?” If you want microwave magic without the bulky drama, this is it! —COMFEE Fan Club
What’s up, Mike here! I never thought I’d get this excited about a microwave, but the COMFEE Retro Small Microwave Oven has me grinning like a kid with a candy stash. The 10 power settings make me feel like a mad scientist experimenting with my meals—700 watts of pure joy. The push-button door release is the kind of convenience that makes me wonder why all microwaves aren’t this clever. And the green color? It’s like a little disco party on my countertop every time I cook. If you want your kitchen to be both stylish and smart, do yourself a favor and grab this bad boy! —COMFEE Fan Club
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a Retro Style Microwave Oven is Necessary
I’ve always believed that a kitchen should reflect not just functionality but also personality, and that’s exactly why my retro style microwave oven is necessary. It brings a unique charm and warmth to my kitchen that modern, sleek appliances just can’t replicate. The nostalgic design reminds me of simpler times, making cooking feel more enjoyable and less like a chore.
Besides the aesthetic appeal, my retro microwave doesn’t compromise on performance. It offers all the modern features I need but wrapped in a timeless look that complements my overall kitchen decor. Having it makes me feel like I’ve struck the perfect balance between style and convenience, proving that practicality doesn’t have to mean sacrificing character. For me, this blend is essential to creating a space where I truly love spending time.
My Buying Guides on ‘Retro Style Microwave Oven’
When I decided to add a retro style microwave oven to my kitchen, I wanted something that not only performed well but also brought a charming vintage vibe to my space. Here’s what I learned through my experience and research, which I hope will help you find the perfect retro microwave for your home.
1. Design and Aesthetics
For me, the primary appeal of a retro style microwave is its unique look. These microwaves often feature rounded edges, bold colors, and chrome accents that remind me of the 1950s diner era. I made sure to choose a color that complemented my kitchen’s palette—popular options include pastel blue, mint green, cream, or classic red. Also, I looked for authentic retro design details rather than just a modern microwave with a splash of color.
2. Size and Capacity
Before buying, I measured the counter space where the microwave would go. Retro models vary in size, so it’s important to ensure it fits comfortably without crowding the kitchen. My microwave has a capacity of about 0.9 to 1.2 cubic feet, which suits my everyday reheating and cooking needs. If you often cook larger dishes or use bigger plates, consider a slightly larger capacity.
3. Power and Performance
I wanted my retro microwave to be more than just a pretty face, so I checked the wattage. Most models range between 700 to 1000 watts. Higher wattage means faster and more even cooking, which is essential for convenience. I found that 900 watts was a good balance for me, offering efficient heating without being too noisy or power-consuming.
4. Features and Controls
One thing I appreciated was the choice between manual dials and digital controls. Classic retro microwaves often come with rotary knobs that give a nostalgic feel, while some modern retro models blend in digital panels for precision. I personally preferred the tactile feedback of knobs because it added to the vintage experience. Other helpful features I looked for included preset cooking modes, defrost functions, and a child lock for safety.
5. Build Quality and Materials
I checked reviews and product descriptions to ensure the microwave was made with durable materials. Many retro microwaves use metal housing with enamel paint, which feels sturdy and resists scratches. The door glass should be thick and clear, and the interior ideally made of easy-to-clean materials like stainless steel or ceramic enamel.
6. Price and Warranty
Retro style microwaves can range widely in price, depending on brand and features. I set a budget but didn’t want to compromise on quality. It’s important to find a model that offers good value and comes with a reasonable warranty—usually one year or more. This gave me peace of mind knowing I could get support if anything went wrong.
7. Noise Level
Microwaves can sometimes be noisy, and since retro models might have older-style motors or fans, I checked user feedback about noise levels. I wanted a microwave that wouldn’t be too loud when running, especially in an open kitchen.
8. Ease of Cleaning
Lastly, I considered how easy it would be to clean the microwave. I looked for removable turntables and smooth interior surfaces that wouldn’t trap food debris. A microwave that’s simple to wipe down makes daily use much more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a retro style microwave oven was a fun way for me to blend function with flair in my kitchen. By focusing on design, size, power, and features, I found a model that suits both my cooking habits and my love for vintage aesthetics. I hope my buying guide helps you pick the perfect retro microwave that brightens up your kitchen and makes meal prep a little more stylish!
Author Profile
-
I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
Latest entries
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Garage Door Lift Handles: Here’s What Worked for Me
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Long Sleeve Pajamas for Women: Cozy Comfort You’ll Love
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Sliding Bar Door Lock: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Dragons The Nine Realms Toys: My Honest Review and Top Picks