If you buy something from the links on this page, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?
12 Best Retro Microwaves That Offer Modern Convenience With Vintage Style
Make your microwave the focal point of your kitchen countertops with one of these standout picks!
In 1945, a self-taught engineer from Maine named Percy Spencer accidentally discovered the heating effect of high-power microwave beams. The first food Spencer deliberately “cooked” in the microwave was popcorn, and American kitchens have never been the same since the birth of this retro microwave.
The first commercial models were introduced in the 1950s, and by 1975, the appliances were on the road to becoming ubiquitous. Technology has become more advanced, but despite the endless settings and cooking times you can choose from these days, the basic process hasn’t changed. These days, however, the style of microwaves has transformed — with many consumers opting for the charming look of a vintage-inspired machine equipped with modern-day tech.
The Best Retro Microwaves
What to Consider
Finding a dependable, stylish microwave is no easy task. Keep the following in mind and you’ll be on your way to finding the best option for you and your space:
Size
Most of these retro microwaves are on the smaller side, so measure your counter or cabinet carefully and decide how much space you can devote to a microwave before clicking “buy.” Take into account what you all plan to cook inside the microwave. If you're planning on reheating large dinner plates, we recommend opting for something with at least a 1.0 cubic foot capacity. But, for those who just want to toss in the occasional bag of popcorn or a slice of pizza, you can shop for something smaller!
Wattage
Our microwave picks range in power from 700 to 1,000 watts. If you go for the lower end, you may end up needing to tack on an extra minute or so here and there to completely cook your meal.
Extras
If you just need to nuke a glass of water for your tea, you’re not going to need a complicated microwave. But if you plan on doing multi-sequence cooking, seek out one of our picks specifically designed for that purpose. Other microwaves offer other extras like customizable cooking times and child-safety locks for safety and convenience.
If you prefer the Mad Men era of microwaves to the current crop, you’re in luck. There are many stylish vintage options to choose from, and you’ll still be able to nuke that cup of Joe in a jiffy.
Brandon Carte has been covering technology at BestProducts.com since 2017, where he's been writing about the latest gadgets, appliances, and scouring the internet for the products that make life easier. His reporting has been featured on TopTenReviews.com, Good Housekeeping and USA Today. When he's not researching washing machines or testing robot vacuums, you can find him at concerts, swimming laps, or at the movies. He thinks smartphones are too big, prefers MP3s to Spotify, and misses his iPhone’s headphone jack.

Watch Next


Amazon Just Knocked $400 Off This Top-Rated Vacuum

8 Best Ice Cream Makers for At-Home Dessert Bliss

The Best Smart Light Bulbs for Your Home

I Tried It: The Reencle Composter