9 Best Retro Microwaves With Vintage Style (October 2026)
The best retro microwaves include the Galanz Retro 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave for small kitchens, the Galanz Retro 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave for bigger meals, and the Galanz Retro 0.9 Cu Ft Microwave for mid-size counters.
On this page (8 sections)
- How we chose the best retro microwaves
- Which retro microwave fits your kitchen?
- How do you choose the right retro microwave?
- What size retro microwave should you buy?
- How do power and controls affect everyday use?
- How should you set up and care for a retro microwave?
- What mistakes should you avoid when buying a retro microwave?
- Which retro microwave should you choose?
The best retro microwave for most small kitchens is the red Galanz 0.7 cu ft model. Its compact exterior, auto cook and reheat menus, defrost options, and removable turntable make it a practical choice when you want vintage color without giving up useful day-to-day functions.
For a roomier interior, consider the 1.1 cu ft Galanz or Nostalgia. If you prefer a dial or knob to buttons, the Nostalgia 0.9 cu ft and green COMFEE offer those control styles.
Measure your counter before choosing by capacity alone. Our guide to choosing a countertop microwave covers fit, power, and features, while our compact microwave picks include more options for tight counters.
Our picks at a glance
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Check itNostalgia Retro 0.9 Cu Ft Microwave
Best for dial-control fans - 5
Check itFrigidaire Retro 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave
Best for black accents - 6
Check itFrigidaire Retro 1.05 Cu Ft Microwave
Best for adjustable power - 7
Check itNostalgia Retro 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave
Best for pink kitchens - 8
Check itNostalgia Modern Retro 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave
Best for bold color - 9
Check itCOMFEE Retro 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave, Green
Best for quiet operation
How we chose the best retro microwaves
These picks pair retro styling with practical cooking features, with size and controls considered for different kitchens. We compared stated capacity, exterior dimensions, power, menus, defrost functions, turntable size, and control style.
The right choice depends on the dishes you heat and the space you have. A compact model can suit a dorm or office, while a larger cavity gives you more room for bowls and dinner plates.
Color and controls matter because the microwave stays visible and gets used often. The options here include red, pink, white, orange, black and gold, and green finishes, along with buttons, a dial, and a knob.
| Product | Best for | Capacity | Size (W x D x H) | Controls | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Galanz Retro 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave, Red | small kitchens | 0.7 cu ft | 17.5 x 14 x 9.5 in | Buttons | 8.1 |
| Galanz Retro 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave | bigger meals | 1.1 cu ft | 21.1 x 16.9 x 11.2 in | Buttons | 7.9 |
| Galanz Retro 0.9 Cu Ft Microwave | mid-size counters | 0.9 cu ft | 19 x 14.9 x 10.8 in | Buttons | 7.8 |
| Nostalgia Retro 0.9 Cu Ft Microwave | dial-control fans | 0.9 cu ft | 20.5 x 16.5 x 11.5 in | Program dial | 7.7 |
| Frigidaire Retro 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave | black accents | 0.7 cu ft | 18.9 x 13.27 x 11.52 in | Digital controls | 7.6 |
| Frigidaire Retro 1.05 Cu Ft Microwave | adjustable power | 1.05 cu ft | 21.25 x 20 x 12 in | Buttons | 7.5 |
| Nostalgia Retro 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave | pink kitchens | 0.7 cu ft | 11.7 x 12.01 x 7.53 in | Buttons | 7.5 |
| Nostalgia Modern Retro 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave | bold color | 1.1 cu ft | 15.06 x 20.08 x 11.99 in | Buttons | 7.3 |
| COMFEE Retro 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave, Green | quiet operation | 0.7 cu ft | 17.3 x 14.3 x 10.2 in | Knob | 7.0 |
Which retro microwave fits your kitchen?
Choose the model that matches your counter, dishes, and preferred controls; a retro finish alone doesn't make one pick right for every kitchen. The options below are arranged from highest to lowest score.
Galanz Retro 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave, Red: Best for small kitchens
- 0.7 cu ft capacity
- 7 auto cook and 10 auto reheat programs
- Defrost by weight or time
- 9.6 in removable glass turntable
A red finish and vintage styling give this compact Galanz a clear place in a retro kitchen. Auto cook and reheat programs add convenience for routine meals.
Pros
- Compact exterior
- Auto cook and reheat programs
- Defrost by weight or time
Cons
- Smallest capacity tier
- Red finish may not suit every kitchen
The Galanz Retro 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave, Red suits a small counter where you still want preset cooking options. It measures 17.5 in wide, 14 in deep, and 9.5 in high, so it takes up less counter area than the larger choices here.
Seven auto cook and 10 auto reheat programs cover familiar foods and drinks. The quick start button adds 30 seconds, and defrost can be set by weight or time.
The removable 9.6 in glass turntable is easy to take out for cleaning. Compare its diameter with your everyday plate before buying, especially if you regularly reheat large dishes.
Choose it for a compact red accent and button controls. Skip it if you need more interior room or often use large cookware.
Galanz Retro 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave: Best for bigger meals
- 1.1 cu ft capacity
- 1000 watts
- 12.4 in glass turntable
- 7 auto cook and 10 auto reheat programs
This white Galanz combines the retro look with the largest stated capacity in the Galanz group here. It has a 12.4 in glass turntable and a broader exterior footprint.
Pros
- Largest capacity among these Galanz picks
- 1000 watts
- Auto cook and reheat programs
Cons
- Needs more counter space
- White finish may show marks more readily
The white Galanz Retro 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave is a roomier choice for counters that can accommodate its larger footprint. It measures 21.1 in wide, 16.9 in deep, and 11.2 in high, and its 12.4 in glass turntable gives you more plate space than the compact Galanz.
Its 1000 watts and 7 auto cook and 10 auto reheat programs suit households that use a microwave for more than the occasional drink or snack. Menus cover foods such as popcorn, vegetables, rice, pizza, and beverages.
Choose it if you want a larger Galanz with a white finish and guided options. Skip it if counter space is limited or your usual dishes fit the smaller model.
Galanz Retro 0.9 Cu Ft Microwave: Best for mid-size counters
- 0.9 cu ft capacity
- 10.5 in glass turntable
- 7 auto cook and 10 auto reheat programs
- Defrost by weight or time
The 0.9 cu ft size sits between compact and larger countertop choices. It keeps the white retro styling and offers auto cook, reheat and defrost functions.
Pros
- Middle capacity
- 10.5 in glass turntable
- Quick start adds 30 seconds
Cons
- Wider than a compact 0.7 cu ft model
- Power rating not given
The Galanz Retro 0.9 Cu Ft Microwave lands between compact and full-size choices. Its exterior measures 19 in wide, 14.9 in deep, and 10.8 in high, making it a reasonable middle ground when a 0.7 cu ft interior feels too tight.
It has a 10.5 in glass turntable, 7 auto cook and 10 auto reheat programs, plus weight or time defrost. Quick start adds 30 seconds when you need a little more heating time.
Choose it for white retro styling and a medium footprint. Skip it if you need the extra room of a 1.1 cu ft model or want a published power rating to guide your choice.
Nostalgia Retro 0.9 Cu Ft Microwave: Best for dial-control fans
- 0.9 cu ft capacity
- 800 watts
- 12 pre-programmed cooking settings
- Delay timer and express cooking
A metallic red finish, chrome accents and a program dial set this Nostalgia apart from button-focused picks. Its 12 pre-programmed settings cover common foods.
Pros
- Dial control
- 12 cooking settings
- Easy-to-read LED clock
Cons
- Deeper than the compact picks
- 800 watts
The metallic red Nostalgia Retro 0.9 Cu Ft Microwave suits buyers who prefer a program dial and strong vintage accents. Its chrome door handle and trim stand out beside the button controls on most other picks.
The dial selects from 12 pre-programmed cooking settings, and the LED display shows the clock and selected setting. It has 800 watts, express cooking, and a delay timer.
At 20.5 in wide and 16.5 in deep, it needs a deeper counter than the compact models. Choose it for dial operation and red-and-chrome styling; skip it if you want a smaller footprint or more power.
Frigidaire Retro 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave: Best for black accents
- 0.7 cu ft capacity
- 700 watts
- 8 auto cook menus
- Auto defrost and glass turntable
This compact Frigidaire pairs retro styling with black and gold colors. Eight auto cook menus and express cooking cover common quick-heating tasks.
Pros
- Compact capacity
- 8 auto cook menus
- 5 power levels
Cons
- 700 watts
- Smaller interior than the 1.05 cu ft option
The black Frigidaire Retro 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave fits a small kitchen where black and gold accents work with the decor. Its exterior measures 18.9 in wide, 13.27 in deep, and 11.52 in high, and it includes a rotating glass turntable.
Eight auto cook menus cover common choices such as popcorn, pizza, beverages, and frozen dinners. Auto defrost, express cooking, five power levels, and a clear LED display round out its everyday controls.
At 700 watts, it offers less stated power than the 900 and 1000 watt models. Choose it for its compact capacity and color scheme; skip it if you want more capacity or finer power adjustment.
Frigidaire Retro 1.05 Cu Ft Microwave: Best for adjustable power
- 1.05 cu ft capacity
- 900 watts
- 10 power levels
- 8 auto cook menus and child safety lock
Choose this larger Frigidaire when capacity and 900 watts matter more than a small footprint. It includes 10 power levels and auto defrost settings for meat, poultry and fish.
Pros
- 1.05 cu ft capacity
- 900 watts
- 10 power levels
Cons
- Largest footprint among these Frigidaire picks
- Retro WhiteGold finish is a specific look
The Frigidaire Retro 1.05 Cu Ft Microwave suits buyers who need a larger cavity and want more control over heating. It has 900 watts and 10 adjustable power levels, plus eight auto cook menus and a child safety lock.
Auto defrost offers settings for meat, poultry, and fish. The removable glass turntable measures 9 in, so compare it with your regular dishes even though the cavity is larger.
This model measures 21.25 in wide and 20 in deep, so it needs a substantial counter area. Choose it for higher capacity and adjustable power; skip it if your counter is shallow or you want a small appliance.
Nostalgia Retro 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave: Best for pink kitchens
- 0.7 cu ft capacity
- 700 watts
- 8 auto cook programs
- 10 power levels and child safety lock
The pink finish makes this small Nostalgia a distinctive choice for a colorful counter. It has 8 auto cook programs, express cooking and 10 power levels.
Pros
- Pink retro finish
- 10 power levels
- Child safety lock
Cons
- 700 watts
- Compact capacity
The pink Nostalgia Retro 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave is a color-led pick for a compact counter. It has 700 watts, 8 auto cook programs, express cooking, and 10 power levels.
A child safety lock and rotating glass turntable add useful features for daily heating. The listed exterior dimensions are unusual compared with the other models in this group, so verify the model's measurements and counter fit before you plan its placement.
Choose it if the pink finish is a priority and you mostly heat smaller portions. Skip it if you need a larger interior or want a model with more stated power.
Nostalgia Modern Retro 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave: Best for bold color
- 1.1 cu ft capacity
- 1000 watts
- 8 auto cook programs
- 10 power levels and child lock
This orange Nostalgia combines a 1.1 cu ft interior with 1000 watts and button controls. Its larger capacity makes it worth comparing with the Galanz 1.1 cu ft option.
Pros
- 1.1 cu ft capacity
- 1000 watts
- 10 power levels
Cons
- Orange is a bold finish
- Fewer auto cook programs than some picks
The orange Nostalgia Modern Retro 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave combines a large stated capacity with 1000 watts and button controls. Its 8 auto cook programs, express cooking, and 10 power levels cover common cooking and reheating needs.
It measures 15.06 in wide, 20.08 in deep, and 11.99 in high. Check depth as well as width, since the front-to-back space may be the limiting measurement on a crowded counter.
Choose it for a larger cavity, strong stated power, and a vivid orange finish. Skip it if you prefer subtle colors or your counter is shallow.
COMFEE Retro 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave, Green: Best for quiet operation
- 0.7 cu ft capacity
- 700 watts
- 11 power levels
- 6 presets and mute function
The green COMFEE gives a compact counter a softer color and adds a mute function for quieter operation sounds. It also has defrost by weight or time.
Pros
- Mute function
- 11 power levels
- Compact footprint
Cons
- 700 watts
- 6 preset menus
The green COMFEE Retro 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave is the only pick here with a mute function. Its knob control, LED display, and compact footprint suit shared spaces where operation sounds may disturb others.
It has 700 watts, 11 adjustable power levels, and six preset menus. Defrost by weight or time and two-stage cooking provide added flexibility for quick meals.
At 17.3 in wide, 14.3 in deep, and 10.2 in high, it fits the compact group. Choose it for the mute option, green finish, or knob control; skip it if you rely on a wide range of preset menus.
How do you choose the right retro microwave?
Choose a retro microwave by checking your dishes, counter dimensions, power needs, and preferred controls in that order. This keeps a stylish finish from distracting you from everyday fit.
Start with your largest regular dish. Compare its diameter with the turntable when a measurement is available, and leave room to place the dish inside without scraping the sides.
Then measure the counter width and depth, plus the available height under cabinets. Include space for the door to open and follow the maker's ventilation guidance; don't assume a microwave will fit just because its width looks right.
Finally, match features to your habits. Auto cook menus can speed up familiar tasks, adjustable power levels help you tailor heating, and defrost by weight or time is useful when you thaw frozen food often.
What size retro microwave should you buy?
A 0.7 cu ft model is the compact tier in this group, while 0.9 to 1.1 cu ft models provide more stated interior capacity. The exterior measurements still vary, so use them alongside capacity when checking your space.
For example, the red Galanz 0.7 cu ft model is 17.5 in wide and 14 in deep. The Frigidaire 1.05 cu ft model is 21.25 in wide and 20 in deep, which can be difficult to accommodate on a shallow counter.
Capacity doesn't guarantee that every large plate will rotate freely. Check the turntable diameter where available and compare it with a plate or container you use often.
Our guide to microwave sizes explains how to match capacity to your household.
How do power and controls affect everyday use?
Power and controls affect how quickly you can heat food and how easily you can adjust a cooking cycle. The compact models here range from 700 to 800 watts, while several larger options provide 900 or 1000 watts.
If you often heat full meals, higher wattage may save time compared with a lower-powered compact model. Use the cooking directions for your food and adjust the time as needed, since portion size and starting temperature also affect heating.
Button controls suit people who want direct menu selections. The Nostalgia 0.9 cu ft uses a turn-and-push program dial, while the COMFEE uses a knob and offers a mute function.
For more on wattage, see our guide to 700 watt vs 1000 watt microwaves.
How should you set up and care for a retro microwave?
Set up a countertop microwave on a stable, level surface with enough room for the door and ventilation. Follow the manufacturer's spacing guidance, and make sure the outlet and cord can reach without stretching or being pinched.
Before the first use, place the glass turntable and roller ring in their intended positions if your model includes them. Check that the turntable rotates freely, then use microwave-safe dishes and cover foods when appropriate to limit splashes.
For regular cleaning, unplug the microwave when safe to do so, remove the turntable, and wash it according to the manufacturer's care instructions. Wipe spills from the interior with a soft, damp cloth, and dry the surfaces before replacing the turntable.
Avoid harsh scouring tools that could damage surfaces. Don't run the microwave empty, and don't block its vents with containers, towels, or items stored nearby.
What mistakes should you avoid when buying a retro microwave?
The most common buying mistake is choosing by appearance or capacity alone. A retro microwave can look compact yet be too deep for the counter, or have enough stated capacity but a turntable too small for your regular plate.
Other easy mistakes include:
- Skipping the measuring step: Check width, depth, and height, then allow space for the door and ventilation.
- Assuming all controls work alike: Decide whether buttons, a dial, or a knob is easiest for you.
- Treating every preset as essential: Buy based on the foods and tasks you repeat, not the longest menu.
- Ignoring power differences: A compact 700 watt model may take longer to heat than a 900 or 1000 watt option.
- Forgetting how you clean it: A removable turntable can be taken out for washing, but routine wiping still matters.
Which retro microwave should you choose?
Choose the red Galanz 0.7 cu ft model for a compact kitchen, the white Galanz 1.1 cu ft or orange Nostalgia for more capacity, and the metallic red Nostalgia if you prefer a program dial. Pick the green COMFEE when a mute function and knob control matter most.
If a larger cavity matters more than a retro accent, compare these picks with our countertop microwave oven guide. For a closer look at the red Galanz, read our Galanz Retro microwave review.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
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Frequently asked questions
What is the best retro microwave?
The red Galanz Retro 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave is a strong choice for a compact kitchen because it combines a small footprint with auto cook and reheat programs. Choose a larger 1.1 cu ft model if your dishes need more interior room.
Measure the counter and check the door swing before choosing a spot.
Are retro microwaves as useful as standard models?
Retro microwaves can include everyday features such as auto cook menus, express cooking, defrost and adjustable power levels. Compare the controls and capacity of each model because features vary.
A vintage finish doesn't tell you how much room is inside, so compare capacity and exterior dimensions.
What size retro microwave should I buy?
A 0.7 cu ft model suits buyers who prioritize a compact footprint, while 0.9 to 1.1 cu ft options offer more stated interior capacity. Check the exterior width, depth and height against your counter.
Compare your largest plate with the turntable size when that measurement is available.
Which retro microwave has a mute function?
The green COMFEE Retro 0.7 Cu Ft Microwave includes a mute function for operation sounds. It also has 11 power levels, 6 preset menus and defrost by weight or time.
If quiet operation matters, check which sounds the mute setting covers before deciding.
