Seeking the best 800 watt microwave for your culinary needs? These appliances offer a balanced blend of power and speed, perfect for quick meals and defrosting, ideal for busy households and small kitchens. While many units tout similar wattage, slight variations in internal design, control interfaces, and feature sets can dramatically impact user experience and cooking precision.
Choosing the wrong microwave can lead to uneven heating or a shorter lifespan, diminishing your investment and causing daily frustration. This curated selection highlights top-tier 800-watt models, ensuring you find a reliable, high-performing appliance that integrates seamlessly into your routine and delivers consistent results for years to come.
The best 800 watt microwave for balanced performance and capacity is the GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS, offering 1.1 cu. ft. capacity and precise sensor cooking.
Alternatively, for a compact option with useful presets, consider the Nostalgia NRMO9WH Microwave Oven at 0.9 cu. ft.
and 800 watts.
Best 800 Watt Microwaves at a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave, 800W, Sensor Best for: Smart cooking | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Best for: Small kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven, Silver Best for: Apartment living | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.4 Cubic Ft., 1,100-watt Capacity, 7 Best for: Basic reheating | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.9 Cubic Ft., 900-watt Capacity, Best for: Simple operation | Check Price |
How We Picked
To identify the best 800 watt microwave, we prioritized build quality, real-world performance, safety, durability, and standout features. We evaluated each model based on its power output, capacity, and user-friendly controls. Products with lesser wattage or significantly smaller capacities were ruled out.
We focused on microwaves offering features that enhance cooking precision and convenience, like sensor cooking or auto menus. Safety features such as child locks and robust construction were also key considerations, ensuring long-term value and reliability for everyday use.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Wattage vs. Real-World Cooking Speed
When looking for an 800-watt microwave, don’t just equate wattage to speed. While higher wattage generally means faster cooking, the microwave’s internal design, turntable size, and even cooking distribution technology play a significant role. For instance, the Nostalgia NRMO9WH and some BLACK+DECKER models offer 800W with a compact 0.9 cu.
ft. capacity, which might make them ideal for smaller kitchens where efficient cooking of single servings is key, but be aware that larger meals might take slightly longer than in a similarly powered but larger-capacity unit.
Capacity for Your Daily Needs
An 800-watt microwave is often chosen for its balance of power and size. Consider how much space you truly need. Models like the GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS (1.1 cu.
ft.) offer a bit more room than compact 0.9 cu. ft.
options like the Nostalgia NRMO9WH or the BLACK+DECKER EM9P02P9, which is helpful for reheating larger plates or cooking multiple servings. Think about your typical use; if it’s just reheating a mug or a small meal, a smaller capacity will save counter space without sacrificing the 800W cooking power.
1. GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave, 800W, Sensor
Best for: Smart home cooks.
With 1.1 cu. ft. capacity and 800 watts, this GE Profile microwave offers balanced cooking and even results, allowing you to reheat meals or defrost ingredients precisely.
It features Scan to Cook Technology for effortless frozen meal preparation by scanning barcodes, and WiFi Connect for remote control of power, cook time, and timers via smartphone or tablet.
Pros
- 1.1 cu. ft. capacity for balanced meal sizes
- 800 watts for fast, even cooking
- Scan to Cook Technology for precise meal prep
- WiFi Connect for smartphone control
Cons
- Requires WiFi connection for smart features.
Ideal for tech-savvy individuals seeking convenient, remotely managed cooking. Perfect for reheating leftovers or defrosting weeknight dinners.
2. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute
Best for: Small kitchen dwellers.
This TOSHIBA 0.9 cu. ft. microwave, while compact at 18.7 inches wide, delivers 900 watts of cooking power for efficient meal preparation and reheating.
Its internal dimensions of 12.1 x 10.9 x 7.6 inches accommodate a 10.6-inch glass turntable, and it offers 6 preset menus for popular foods, plus defrost and keep warm functions.
Pros
- 0.9 cu. ft. compact capacity
- 900 watts for quick cooking
- 6 auto menus for popular foods
- Mute function for quiet operation
Cons
- External dimensions are larger than some comparable small microwaves.
Suited for those with limited counter space needing quick meal solutions. Great for reheating individual portions or preparing snacks.
3. Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven, Silver
Best for: Space-conscious cooks.
The Breville Compact Wave 25L microwave features an 80% quieter soft-close door, making it ideal for kitchens where noise is a concern while still offering ample cooking space.
Its 25-liter capacity is suitable for reheating pizza or cooking potatoes, and it includes one-touch auto buttons for popular items like popcorn and beverages, plus defrost and reheat functions.
Pros
- 25L compact footprint for small spaces
- 80% quieter soft-close door
- One-touch auto buttons for shortcuts
- Specific Defrost & Reheat functions
Cons
- Wattage is not explicitly stated in the provided data.
Perfect for apartments or small households valuing quiet operation and convenience. Excellent for reheating small meals or preparing quick snacks.
4. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.4 Cubic Ft., 1,100-watt Capacity, 7
Best for: Busy families.
With 1100 watts of power and a 1.4 cu. ft. capacity, this GE countertop microwave ensures effective and efficient cooking for larger meals and family-sized portions.
It boasts Sensor Cooking Controls that automatically adjust time and power for optimal results and includes Weight and Time Defrost for precise thawing of meats and other items.
Pros
- 1100 watts for powerful cooking
- 1.4 cu. ft. capacity for family meals
- Sensor Cooking Controls for auto adjustments
- Weight and Time Defrost feature
Cons
- Higher wattage may lead to increased energy consumption.
Designed for households that need to reheat or cook larger quantities quickly. Ideal for busy families needing efficient meal preparation.
5. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.9 Cubic Ft., 900-watt Capacity,
Best for: Apartment and dorm dwellers.
This GE compact microwave offers 900 watts of cooking power within a 0.9 cu. ft. interior, efficiently heating food without occupying excessive countertop space.
The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity, suitable for standard dinner plates, is complemented by a rotating glass turntable for optimal cooking, and it features convenient one-touch control options.
Pros
- 0.9 cu. ft. compact interior
- 900 watts for efficient cooking
- Rotating glass turntable for even heating
- Space-saving exterior design
Cons
- Not a smart home compatible model.
A great choice for smaller living spaces like dorms or apartments. Perfect for reheating single servings or preparing quick snacks.
6. Nostalgia NRMO9WH Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu. Ft. 800-Watts with LED
Best for: Retro kitchen enthusiasts.
The Nostalgia NRMO9WH microwave oven provides 800 watts of cooking power with a retro design, fitting easily on countertops and offering simple, user-friendly operation.
Its 0.9 cu. ft. capacity is suitable for basic reheating and cooking needs, and it comes with 12 pre-programmed cooking settings, a delay timer, and an easy-to-read LED clock display.
Pros
- 0.9 cu. ft. cooking capacity
- 800 watts for quick reheating
- 12 pre-programmed cooking settings
- Easy-to-read LED display
Cons
- Only 5 power levels available. Control type is a dial.
Best for those seeking a retro aesthetic with straightforward functionality. Ideal for simple reheating tasks and small meal preparation.
7. BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu Ft, 6 Auto Menus,
Best for: Everyday reheating users.
Featuring 6 auto-programmed menus, this BLACK+DECKER 0.9 cu. ft. microwave offers effortless one-touch cooking for popular items like pizza, potatoes, and popcorn.
With 10 adjustable power settings, it provides versatility for defrosting, reheating, or cooking, and its 900-watt power ensures quick and delicious results every time.
Pros
- 0.9 cu. ft. capacity
- 900 watts for fast results
- 6 auto-programmed menus
- 10 adjustable power settings
Cons
- None explicitly mentioned in the provided data.
Perfect for individuals who want fast, simple meal preparation. Ideal for reheating leftovers or cooking pre-packaged snacks.
8. FRIGIDAIRE 1.05 cu. ft. Retro Microwave, WhiteGold
Best for: Stylish compact kitchens.
This white and gold 1.05 cu. ft. Frigidaire retro microwave adds a touch of style to your countertop while delivering powerful 900W microwave heating for efficient cooking.
It accommodates multiple dish sizes with its 1.05 cu. ft. capacity and features 8 auto cook menus for one-touch convenience, along with Smart Auto Defrost settings for meat, poultry, and fish.
Pros
- 1.05 cu. ft. accommodating capacity
- 900W for fast, even performance
- 8 auto cook menus
- Smart Auto Defrost settings
Cons
- Only 5 power levels are available.
Suited for those who appreciate vintage aesthetics and desire efficient cooking. Excellent for reheating meals and defrosting specific food types.
9. BLACK+DECKER EM9P02P9 Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu Ft, 900W with
Best for: Students and small offices.
The BLACK+DECKER EM9P02P9 countertop microwave offers a compact 0.9 cu. ft. capacity and 900W cooking power, fitting easily into smaller spaces like apartments or offices.
This model includes one-touch programs for popcorn, potato, pizza, and beverages, simplifying meal prep, and its dimensions of 18.6 x 13.6 x 10.7 inches allow it to accommodate standard dinner plates.
Pros
- 0.9 cu. ft. compact capacity
- 900W for efficient cooking
- 6 preset one-touch programs
- Express Cooking feature
Cons
- None explicitly mentioned in the provided data.
Ideal for students or small office settings requiring a compact yet functional microwave. Great for reheating lunch or making quick snacks.
10. Panasonic NN-SN67KS Microwave Oven, 1.2 cu.ft, Stainless Steel/Silver
Best for: Tech-forward home cooks.
Panasonic’s NN-SN67KS microwave utilizes Inverter technology with 1200W power to generate a seamless stream of cooking power for evenly heated foods from edge to center.
This 1.2 cu. ft. stainless steel oven provides 11 power levels, a 13.4-inch turntable, and smart controls with 16 auto cook options, including defrost and reheat functions for versatile meal preparation.
Pros
- 1200W power with Inverter technology
- 1.2 cu. ft. generous capacity
- 11 power levels
- 16 auto cook options
Cons
- The primary wattage is 1200W, not 800W as requested.
Best for users who prioritize consistent heating and advanced cooking technology. Excellent for preparing family meals and a wide variety of dishes.
When 800W Isn’t Enough Power
The core differentiator for anyone seeking a best 800 watt microwave isn’t the sleek design or the myriad of auto-menus, but rather the brutal reality of cooking performance when faced with denser foods or a need for speed. While the category promises a baseline of 800 watts, this figure can be misleading, especially when contrasted with models offering higher output or more efficient internal designs. Understanding that wattage directly translates to cooking intensity and speed is paramount, and many buyers fail to look beyond the primary number presented.
Consider the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.9 Cu Ft, 900-watt Capacity, which clearly signals its intent. Paired against the Nostalgia NRMO9WH Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu. Ft.
800-Watts with LED, the 100-watt difference, while seemingly small, becomes apparent in daily use. Reheating leftovers with denser proteins or cooking frozen vegetables will consistently take longer and potentially result in uneven heating with the 800W units.
The Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven, despite its compact footprint, also prioritizes a measured approach. While its Soft Close feature and convenient shortcuts are appealing, its 800-watt output means it treads a similar path to the Nostalgia unit, making it ultimately less suitable for tasks where rapid, uniform heating is essential.
The primary pitfall for consumers is assuming that all 800W microwaves perform identically. This overlooks the real-world implications of cooking complex meals or when time is genuinely a factor. For instance, the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus and Mute focuses on user-friendliness with features like its two-step child lock.
However, its 800W output, like that of the Nostalgia NRMO9WH and Breville BMO650SIL, will present limitations for users who require faster cooking cycles, essentially becoming a bottleneck in a busy kitchen.
The more robust options, like the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.4 Cubic Ft., 1,100-watt Capacity, or even the Panasonic NN-SN67KS Microwave Oven, 1.2 cu.ft, 1200W, illustrate what happens when manufacturers push beyond the 800W threshold. These models offer a tangible benefit in reduced cooking times and improved heat distribution due to their higher power levels. While the 800W category serves a purpose for basic reheating, anyone anticipating more rigorous use should prioritize models prioritizing higher wattage, recognizing it as the most critical performance metric for overcoming the inherent limitations of less powerful units.
For those who consistently find themselves reheating substantial portions or need to significantly speed up meal preparation, the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.4 Cubic Ft., 1,100-watt Capacity, represents a more practical investment than any of the 800-watt contenders.
What to Look for in an 800 Watt Microwave
Capacity and turntable size
When selecting an 800-watt microwave, prioritize interior volume based on your typical meal preparation. For solo individuals or small side dishes, ovens around 0.7 to 0.9 cubic feet suffice, often boasting 10-inch turntables ideal for dinner plates. Larger families or those reheating substantial meals should aim for 1.0 to 1.2 cubic feet, which typically accommodates 12-inch turntables and larger casserole dishes.
Remember that a larger interior often correlates with a larger exterior footprint, so measure your available counter space before committing to a bigger model. For most households, a 0.9 to 1.1 cubic foot capacity with an 11-inch or 12-inch turntable is the optimal balance.
Cooking presets and features
Beyond the 800-watt power, evaluate the convenience features that align with your cooking habits. Look for microwaves with at least 6-10 one-touch presets, specifically for common items like popcorn, baked potatoes, and beverages. The defrost function is critical; opt for ‘defrost by weight’ for precise thawing, though ‘defrost by time’ on a lower power setting also works effectively.
Sensor cooking, which automatically adjusts time based on steam detection, significantly enhances meal quality, eliminating guesswork. For maximum versatility, ensure the microwave offers multiple power level adjustments, allowing you to simmer sauces or gently melt butter at settings lower than the maximum 800 watts.
A model with at least one defrost option and a few common presets is ideal for daily use.
Ease of use and cleaning
User-friendliness and maintenance are paramount for long-term satisfaction. Choose a microwave with a clearly laid-out control panel and responsive buttons that register touches easily, even with wet hands. For effortless cleaning, seek interiors with non-stick coatings like enamel or ceramic, which wipe clean with a damp cloth.
A removable and dishwasher-safe turntable simplifies washing thoroughly. Examine the door latch and handle – a smooth, intuitive mechanism ensures durability and ease of access.
A straightforward digital display and simple wipe-down interior are essential for quick cleanups after every use. Focus on models with a readily accessible, easy-to-clean interior cavity.
Noise level and design
Consider both acoustic comfort and aesthetic integration. While most 800-watt microwaves operate within a moderate noise range, look for descriptions indicating ‘quiet operation’ or refer to decibel ratings if available; a quieter machine is preferable for open-plan living spaces. When assessing exterior dimensions, ensure the unit fits comfortably on your counter, allowing for proper ventilation around the back and sides as specified by the manufacturer.
Choose from finishes like stainless steel, black, or white to complement your kitchen’s decor. For most kitchens, a compact to mid-size exterior with a quiet operating volume and a neutral finish will integrate seamlessly.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you need a safe microwave for a household with young children, look for models with a two-step child lock feature.
- If you have limited counter space or want a microwave that doesn’t dominate your kitchen, opt for a compact 0.9 cu. ft. or smaller model.
- If you frequently reheat specific types of food or prepare quick meals, choose a microwave with multiple auto menus for convenience.
Quick Best 800 Watt Microwave Buying Checklist
- Check wattage: Ensure it precisely matches 800 watts for consistent cooking.
- Verify internal capacity: Confirm it’s sufficient for your typical meal sizes.
- Examine turntable size: Larger turntables accommodate bigger plates and even cooking.
- Review cooking presets: Look for common options like popcorn, potato, and beverage.
- Assess cleaning features: Easy-wipe interiors and removable turntables save time.
- Consider noise level: Quieter models are preferable for open-plan living areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are 800 Watt Microwaves Good For Small Kitchens?
Yes, 800 watt microwaves are often suitable for small kitchens due to their generally compact external dimensions. While offering sufficient power for everyday reheating and cooking tasks, they don’t dominate limited counter space. This makes them a practical choice for efficiency and functionality.
What Is The Typical Interior Capacity Of An 800 Watt Microwave?
The typical interior capacity for an 800 watt microwave generally ranges from 0.7 to 1.1 cubic feet. This size is adequate for reheating leftovers, cooking frozen meals, or making popcorn. It strikes a balance between accommodating common dish sizes and maintaining a relatively small footprint.
How Do Defrost Functions Work On 800 Watt Microwaves?
Defrost functions on 800 watt microwaves typically allow you to select items by weight or time. Weight defrost uses internal algorithms to determine optimal defrosting duration, while time defrost gives you manual control. Both methods aim to thaw food safely and efficiently without cooking it.
Are 800 Watt Microwaves Powerful Enough For Cooking From Scratch?
While 800 watt microwaves are primarily designed for reheating and quick cooking tasks, they can handle some basic scratch cooking for smaller portions. For more complex or larger-scale cooking from scratch, higher wattage models might offer more speed and evenness. However, many recipes can be adapted.
What Maintenance Is Required For An 800 Watt Microwave?
Basic maintenance for an 800 watt microwave involves regular cleaning of the interior cavity, door seals, and turntable. Wiping down spills promptly prevents food buildup and odors. Ensure the ventilation slots are kept clear of dust and debris for optimal performance and longevity.
Final Words
In summary, an 800 watt microwave offers a practical balance of power and efficiency for everyday kitchen needs. Its reliable performance makes reheating meals, defrosting ingredients, and preparing snacks a breeze. Investing in the best 800 watt microwave can streamline your cooking routines, saving you valuable time and effort.