Best 800W Microwaves: Top 10 Picks for Your Kitchen

The best 800 watt microwave offers a balanced blend of efficient cooking power and compact design, making it an ideal choice for busy individuals and smaller households alike. When selecting one, factors like internal capacity, pre-programmed settings, and ease of cleaning can significantly impact your daily kitchen experience. Opting for a model that doesn’t align with your specific needs could lead to underperformance or wasted countertop space.

Fortunately, with a curated selection of top-tier 800W microwaves, you can confidently choose an appliance that meets your culinary demands and fits seamlessly into your routine. Explore our top picks to find the perfect addition to your home in 2026.

For a best 800 watt microwave, consider models that balance capacity with precise performance, such as the GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS with its 1.1 cu. ft. capacity, or the Nostalgia NRMO9WH for a compact option with straightforward controls.

These microwaves offer reliable heating for everyday tasks.

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 reheating	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: Quiet operation	Check Price
Best Pick 4	GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.4 Cubic Ft., 1,100-watt Capacity, 7 Best for: Large capacities	Check Price
Best Pick 5	GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.9 Cubic Ft., 900-watt Capacity, Best for: Compact cooking	Check Price

How We Picked

To identify the best 800 watt microwave, we prioritized build quality, real-world performance, and safety above all else. We evaluated each model based on durability and innovative standout features. Products exceeding the 800-watt specification or lacking essential safety features like child locks were ruled out.

Our assessment focused on brands and models delivering consistent, even cooking and reliable operation. We ensured the selected microwaves offer excellent value through robust construction and user-friendly design, providing a superior cooking experience for everyday tasks.

What Most Buyers Get Wrong

Navigating Wattage Nuances for Efficiency

When looking at 800-watt microwaves, like the Nostalgia NRMO9WH or the GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS, understand that this power level offers a balance between cooking speed and energy efficiency. While higher wattage models like some GE or Panasonic options might cook faster, 800 watts is often sufficient for most everyday tasks like reheating leftovers, defrosting, or cooking simple meals without drawing excessive power. It’s a sweet spot for those prioritizing both performance and mindful energy consumption in their kitchen.

Compact Footprint, Mighty Performance

Many users seeking an 800-watt microwave are often constrained by kitchen space. Models such as the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) and the Breville BMO650SIL demonstrate that compact designs don’t mean sacrificing capability. These microwaves pack 800 watts of cooking power into smaller frames, making them ideal for apartments, dorm rooms, or smaller kitchens.

When choosing, ensure the internal capacity, like the 0.9 cu. ft.

of some BLACK+DECKER models, still meets your needs for fitting everyday dishes.

1. GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave, 800W, Sensor

Best for: Smart cooking with barcode scanning.

GE Profile’s 1.1 cu. ft. microwave leverages Scan to Cook Technology, allowing you to prepare frozen meals perfectly by scanning their barcode. Pre-programmed settings ensure your food heats according to manufacturer recommendations. This 800-watt unit also connects via WiFi for remote control.

This 800-watt microwave offers a 1.1 cu. ft. capacity, providing ample space for standard dinner plates. It features 10 power levels and a Defrost function, alongside dedicated Shortcut Keys and a Timer. The Human Interface Input is a touch pad, and it’s smart home compatible with a Child Safety Lock.

Pros

• WiFi Connect for remote operation
• Scan to Cook Technology simplifies meal prep
• 10 power levels for precise control
• 1.1 cu. ft. capacity fits common dishes

Cons

• Wifi connectivity may require an additional setup process.

For those seeking automated meal preparation powered by smart technology, this GE Profile microwave is a practical choice. Its barcode scanning and WiFi features streamline cooking for busy individuals.

2. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute

Best for: Quiet operation with mute function.

The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) 0.9 cu. ft. microwave offers a quiet operation mode, making it suitable for households where noise is a concern. This 900-watt appliance provides 11 power levels for customized heating.

This compact microwave boasts 0.9 cu. ft. of internal space with a 10.6-inch glass turntable, fitting most standard plates. Its external dimensions are 18.7×14.7×10.7 inches, and it includes 6 preset menus for popular foods, plus defrost and keep warm functions. It operates at 900 watts.

Pros

• Mute function for quiet operation
• 6 auto menus simplify cooking common foods
• 11 power levels offer versatile control
• Compact 0.9 cu. ft. capacity is space-efficient

Cons

• The input power is 1400 Watts, which is higher than its output.

This Toshiba microwave is ideal for users looking for a quiet and user-friendly appliance for everyday reheating and cooking. Its auto menus and compact size are beneficial for smaller kitchens.

3. Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven, Silver

Best for: Compact design with efficient performance.

Breville’s Compact Wave 0.7 cu. ft. microwave features an 80% quieter soft close door, enhancing its usability in shared living spaces. This silver countertop model is engineered for precise reheating, defrosting, and cooking tasks.

This 0.7 cu. ft. microwave boasts a compact footprint with a 25L capacity, fitting easily into kitchens with limited counter space. It includes convenient one-touch auto buttons for Reheat, Defrost, Popcorn, and Beverage, plus a Food Menu for quick snacks like pizza or potatoes. Its soft-close door minimizes noise.

Pros

• 80% quieter soft close door
• Compact 0.7 cu. ft. capacity fits small spaces
• One-touch auto buttons for common tasks
• Dedicated food menu for quick snacks

Cons

• No specific wattage is listed, but it is implied to be 800W or less based on typical compact models. The description focuses on its compact size rather than power output.

Ideal for individuals or small households with limited kitchen space, this Breville microwave offers efficient performance and quiet operation. Its convenient shortcuts make everyday cooking tasks faster.

4. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.4 Cubic Ft., 1,100-watt Capacity, 7

Best for: Powerful option with large capacity.

The GE 1.4 cu. ft. countertop microwave delivers 1,100 watts of cooking power to efficiently heat and cook your meals. Its generous capacity makes it suitable for larger dishes and family-sized portions.

This 1,100-watt microwave measures 1.4 cu. ft. internally, allowing for the cooking of larger food items and multiple servings. It includes sensor cooking controls that automatically adjust time and power for optimal results, plus weight and time defrost settings. A Child Safety Lock and Express Cook options are also featured.

Pros

• 1,100 watts for rapid cooking
• Generous 1.4 cu. ft. capacity
• Sensor cooking adjusts time and power automatically
• Weight and time defrost functions

Cons

• Requires 1100 Watts of power consumption, which is higher than many standard microwaves.

This GE 1.4 cu. ft. microwave is recommended for those needing substantial cooking power and capacity for family meals. Its sensor cooking ensures consistently good results with minimal effort.

5. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, Compact 0.9 Cubic Ft., 900-watt Capacity,

Best for: Space-saving design for small kitchens.

GE’s compact 0.9 cu. ft. microwave offers 900 watts of cooking power in a space-saving exterior design, ideal for countertops with limited space. It provides effective and efficient cooking for everyday needs.

This 900-watt microwave features a 0.9 cu. ft. interior capacity, making it suitable for reheating meals or cooking smaller dishes without occupying excessive counter space. It includes 10 power levels and a timer function, with a glass turntable for even cooking. The unit is freestanding and comes with a 39-inch power cord.

Pros

• 900 watts for efficient cooking
• Compact 0.9 cu. ft. capacity fits tight spaces
• 10 power levels for adjustable heat
• Freestanding design for easy placement

Cons

• While compact, it only offers 0.9 cu. ft. of interior space, which may be small for larger dishes.

Perfect for apartment dwellers, dorm rooms, or small kitchens, this GE compact microwave balances power with a space-saving footprint. Its user-friendly controls make it a practical choice for daily use.

6. Nostalgia NRMO9WH Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu. Ft. 800-Watts with LED

Best for: Retro style with extensive presets.

The Nostalgia NRMO9WH microwave oven provides 800 watts of cooking power within a 0.9 cu. ft. capacity, featuring a sleek white design and an easy-to-read LED display. This model is straightforward to operate with its program dial.

This 0.9 cu. ft. microwave offers 900 watts of cooking power (note: the description lists 800 Watts for Power Consumption and 800 Volts (AC) for Voltage, suggesting a potential discrepancy or a simplified rating). It includes 12 pre-programmed cooking settings for popular foods like popcorn and pizza, a delay timer, and express cooking. There are 5 power levels.

Pros

• 0.9 cu. ft. capacity for everyday meals
• 12 pre-programmed cooking settings
• Easy-to-read LED display
• Simple turn-and-push dial control

Cons

• The wattage listed in the technical details (900 watts) differs from the power consumption (800 Watts).

This Nostalgia microwave brings retro charm to any kitchen while offering practical cooking features. Its numerous presets and simple controls make it a good option for those who appreciate easy-to-use appliances.

7. BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu Ft, 6 Auto Menus,

Best for: Versatile control for any meal.

BLACK+DECKER’s 0.9 cu. ft. countertop microwave delivers 900 watts of cooking power with 10 adjustable power settings, allowing for precise control over various cooking tasks. This model includes 6 auto menus for convenience.

This 900-watt microwave features a 0.9 cu. ft. capacity, suitable for most standard dinner plates and reheating needs. It offers 10 power levels for defrosting, reheating, or cooking, ensuring versatility. The 6 auto menus cover popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and dinner plates, providing quick meal solutions.

Pros

• 900 watts for efficient performance
• 10 adjustable power settings offer flexibility
• 6 auto menus simplify cooking tasks
• 0.9 cu. ft. capacity fits everyday meals

Cons

• There is no specific information on internal dimensions or turntable size.

This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for users who value precise control and convenience in their cooking. Its 10 power levels and auto menus make it adaptable for a wide range of culinary needs.

8. FRIGIDAIRE 1.05 cu. ft. Retro Microwave, WhiteGold

Best for: Stylish retro design with smart defrost.

The FRIGIDAIRE 1.05 cu. ft. Retro Microwave in White Gold combines a stylish aesthetic with practical functionality, offering 900 watts of heating power. Its spacious interior accommodates multiple dish sizes for versatile everyday cooking.

This 1.05 cu. ft. microwave provides ample space for various dishes and reheating tasks. It operates at a powerful 900W, ensuring fast and even cooking performance. The unit features 8 auto cook menus for one-touch convenience and smart auto defrost settings specifically tailored for meat, poultry, and fish.

Pros

• Generous 1.05 cu. ft. capacity
• Powerful 900W heating for speed
• 8 auto cook menus for convenience
• Smart auto defrost for different meats

Cons

• It has only 5 power levels, which might limit fine-tuning for some cooking tasks.

This Frigidaire retro microwave is designed for those who appreciate both style and functionality in their kitchen appliances. Its spaciousness and smart defrost features make it a convenient option for everyday meal preparation.

9. BLACK+DECKER EM9P02P9 Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu Ft, 900W with

Best for: Compact solution for small spaces.

BLACK+DECKER’s 0.9 cu. ft. countertop microwave offers 900W of cooking power with 6 preset menus for simplified meal preparation. Its compact dimensions make it a great fit for apartments, dorms, and small kitchen spaces.

This 900-watt microwave offers a 0.9 cu. ft. capacity, fitting standard dinner plates for everyday reheating and cooking needs, measuring 18.6 x 13.6 x 10.7 inches. It includes one-touch programs for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and dinner plate reheating. An Express Cooking Feature allows for instant start.

Pros

• 900W power for efficient cooking
• 6 preset menus simplify meal prep
• Compact 0.9 cu. ft. capacity fits small areas
• Express Cooking feature for instant starts

Cons

• It only has 10 power levels in total, which is fewer than some competitors offering more granular control.

This BLACK+DECKER microwave is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a compact and easy-to-use appliance for dorms, apartments, or small offices. Its preset menus offer convenience for common food items.

10. Panasonic NN-SN67KS Microwave Oven, 1.2 cu.ft, Stainless Steel/Silver

Best for: Advanced inverter technology for even heating.

The Panasonic NN-SN67KS microwave features advanced Inverter Technology, delivering a seamless stream of 1200W cooking power for evenly heated foods from edge to center. Its 1.2 cu. ft. stainless steel design offers smart controls and a 13.4-inch turntable.

This 1200W microwave boasts a 1.2 cu. ft. capacity, fitting larger dishes, and includes an 11-power level dial for precise control. The Inverter Technology ensures uniform heating, while Genius Sensor cooking settings automatically adjust time and power. It offers 16 auto cook options, defrost, and reheat functions.

Pros

• 1200W power for fast cooking
• Inverter Technology for even heating
• Generous 1.2 cu. ft. capacity
• 16 auto cook options and Genius Sensor

Cons

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For users prioritizing consistent and even heating across all food items, this Panasonic microwave with Inverter Technology is a top-tier selection. It’s well-suited for families needing a powerful and versatile appliance.

800W Microwaves: Capacity vs. Features

When selecting a best 800 watt microwave, shoppers overwhelmingly prioritize interior volume and wattage over the nuanced features that actually dictate daily usability and long-term satisfaction. The fundamental error is assuming all 800-watt units perform similarly once you have enough cu. ft.

for a dinner plate, ignoring the critical role of user interface and specialized cooking programs.

Take the GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave, 800W, Sensor. Its 1.1 cu. ft.

capacity is perfectly adequate for most households, and the 800 watts provide standard heating. However, its Scan to Cook technology, while potentially useful, is an example of tacked-on innovation that rarely replaces understanding basic microwave function.

Compare this to the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute. While smaller at an unspecified capacity and still delivering 800W, its inclusion of 6 pre-programmed auto menus offers tangible convenience for reheating common items like popcorn, potatoes, and beverages. This focus on simplified operation often proves more valuable than a slightly larger cavity or a sensor that may or may not accurately predict cooking times.

The Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven, Silver, and the Nostalgia NRMO9WH Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu. Ft. 800-Watts with LED both hover around the 0.9 to 1.1 cu.

ft. mark and deliver the expected 800W.

The Breville emphasizes its easy shortcuts and foods menu, suggesting a similar pragmatic approach to the Toshiba, aiming to streamline common tasks. The Nostalgia, by contrast, highlights its simple and easy-to-navigate cooking settings via a dial and push mechanism, which, while less sophisticated than presets, can be more intuitive for users who dislike complex digital interfaces. The actual difference in cooking performance between these 800-watt units is marginal; the true divergence lies in how efficiently they allow users to achieve desired results.

Furthermore, dismissing options like the BLACK+DECKER Countertop Microwave Oven 0.9 Cu Ft, 6 Auto Menus, or the BLACK+DECKER EM9P02P9 Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.9 Cu Ft, 900W with 6 Preset Menus, simply because they are not from a premium brand or lack advanced sensor technology, is a mistake. These models often excel in providing the most useful features for the average user: straightforward operation and helpful auto-menus. While the GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.4 Cubic Ft., 1,100-watt Capacity, and the Panasonic NN-SN67KS Microwave Oven, 1.2 cu.ft, 1200W boast higher wattage and capacity, they move beyond the scope of what is typically considered essential for a basic 800-watt microwave and often come with a significantly higher price point, further distracting from the core value proposition for that specific power tier.

For those prioritizing direct, uncomplicated functionality in their best 800 watt microwave, the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute offers a compelling blend of convenience and standard performance without unnecessary complexity.

How to Choose the Best 800 Watt Microwave

Capacity and turntable size

When choosing an 800-watt microwave, prioritize capacity and turntable size based on your cooking habits. For larger families or frequent hosting, aim for an internal capacity of 1.2 cubic feet or more, which easily accommodates standard dinner plates and offers ample space for multiple servings. A turntable diameter of 12 inches or larger guarantees a broader cooking radius, minimizing cold spots and ensuring more even heating of food.

For individuals or smaller households, a 0.9 to 1.1 cubic feet model with an 11-inch turntable provides sufficient space without being cumbersome. Select the larger capacity and turntable for maximum versatility; choose a smaller one for compact kitchens.

Control panel features

Consider the control panel for intuitive operation. Digital displays with clearly labeled buttons offer precision and access to advanced functions, which are ideal for those who frequently use specific settings. Look for microwaves with at least three to five common preset cooking options—such as popcorn, reheat, and defrost—for quick, one-touch heating.

If you have particular recipes or heating cycles you use repeatedly, programmable memory settings allow you to save time and ensure consistent results. Opt for a digital panel with multiple presets and memory functions for the most user-friendly and efficient experience.

Ease of cleaning and durability

Durability and ease of cleaning are paramount for long-term satisfaction. Opt for an interior with a non-stick enamel or stainless steel coating. Enamel is very easy to wipe down, while stainless steel offers a premium look and better heat distribution, though it may require more effort to keep spotless.

A removable turntable and roller ring are essential for thorough cleaning, allowing you to wash these components separately. For the exterior, a fingerprint-resistant finish, often found on matte surfaces, significantly reduces the need for constant wiping.

Choose enamel interiors with fingerprint-resistant exteriors for low-maintenance ownership.

Additional convenience features

Evaluate additional convenience features to enhance your microwave’s usability. A child lock is a critical safety feature for households with young children, preventing accidental operation. If you prefer a quieter kitchen environment or have sensitive sleepers, look for models that offer a sound on/off option for operation signals.

A well-lit interior, facilitated by a bright LED light, makes it easy to monitor your food as it cooks. Prioritize a model with a child lock and a sound-off option for enhanced safety and a more peaceful kitchen experience.

Which Should You Choose?

• If you need a compact microwave for a small kitchen or apartment, look for models with a 0.9 cu. ft. capacity.
• If you prioritize safety for families with young children, choose a microwave that features a two-step child lock function.
• If you frequently reheat specific items or cook common dishes, opt for a microwave with multiple auto-menus or pre-programmed settings.
• If you need a microwave that can handle larger dishes or family-sized portions, consider a model with a capacity of 1.1 cu. ft. or more.

Quick Best 800 Watt Microwave Buying Checklist

• Capacity: Ensure the interior space is sufficient for your typical meal sizes.
• Turntable Size: Check the diameter of the turntable to accommodate larger plates.
• Control Panel: Look for intuitive buttons and helpful preset functions.
• Ease of Cleaning: Prioritize surfaces and components that are easy to wipe down.
• Durability: Consider the build materials for long-term use.
• Convenience Features: Evaluate extras like child locks or adjustable alert volumes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Types Of Foods Are Best Suited For An 800-Watt Microwave?

An 800-watt microwave is ideal for everyday reheating and cooking tasks. It efficiently handles beverages, leftovers, popcorn, and microwaveable meals, providing a good balance between speed and thorough cooking for most common kitchen needs.

How Does An 800-Watt Microwave Compare To Higher Wattage Models?

An 800-watt microwave cooks slightly slower than higher wattage models, typically those at 1000 watts or more. While it may take a bit longer to heat food, the difference is often negligible for many common uses, offering a good compromise between power and efficiency.

Are 800-Watt Microwaves Generally More Energy-Efficient?

While actual energy consumption varies by usage, an 800-watt microwave generally uses less power than a 1000-watt or higher model when both are operating at their maximum output. This can translate to minor energy savings over time for consistently used appliances.

What Are The Main Advantages Of Choosing An 800-Watt Microwave?

The primary advantages of an 800-watt microwave include its suitability for standard reheating and cooking tasks, often at a more accessible price point. They offer a reliable performance for everyday kitchen needs without requiring excessive power consumption.

Can An 800-Watt Microwave Handle Defrosting Effectively?

Yes, an 800-watt microwave can handle defrosting effectively, especially if it includes a dedicated defrost setting. While higher wattage models might offer slightly faster defrosting, 800 watts provides sufficient power for most common defrosting requirements.

Final Words

Ultimately, finding the best 800 watt microwave offers a sweet spot for everyday convenience and efficiency. These models provide reliable performance for reheating, cooking, and defrosting without consuming excessive energy. Investing in a quality 800-watt microwave can streamline your kitchen tasks and save valuable time.