Everyone Owned It In The '80s – Now It's The Kitchen Appliance Still Going Strong Today

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Many homeowners have expressed that appliances just aren't as high quality as they were in previous decades. Modern products often have such short lifespans that they can leave you longing for those bulky-yet-durable vintage versions that filled kitchens prior to the 2000s. There are many older appliances that are actually still going strong today, such as the Amana Radarange microwave. This was the first home microwave to gain popularity. It hit the market in '67, and had completely taken over by the '80s.

Despite the fact that this '80s kitchen appliance was produced decades ago, you can still find it in use in homes. That's right, the decades-old machine was made well enough to hold up all these years later. This validates the appeal of vintage, despite the fact that modern options incorporate so many innovative features. It's no surprise that many have no interest in replacing their old microwaves when they've lasted so long. Some homeowners even hunt down appliances like the Amana Radarange microwave at secondhand stores or online marketplaces due to their durability and appeal.

Many Amana Radarange microwave owners have shared their experiences with the appliance over the years. While speaking with San Antonio Express News in 2025, Marcy Juarez provided insight on the Amana Radarange Touchmatic microwave she bought in 1987. She revealed that she purchased the appliance for $187, and it held up surprisingly well over the years. "I don't remember how long it's been there," she said of the retro kitchen appliance. 

This is just one of the many Amana Radarange microwave longevity stories you can find online. One Reddit user shared their parents' experience owning the appliance since the '80s. "I think my mom said she remembered these were being sold for over $500 back in the day, that's why multiple people went in on this microwave for their wedding present," they penned in part in response to a comment on their post. "40 years later it still works."

You might be inspired to go out and snag one of these long-lasting appliances yourself. Thankfully, this should be easy. You can find these  microwaves from the '80s for purchase on eBay, such as this Amana Radarange Touchmatic. Alternatively, you might be able to score one of these valuable vintage appliances at your local thrift store. Just remember to be wary of units with degraded door seals and damaged electronics or wiring — and keep in mind that older microwaves may not heat as evenly as newer models, so you need to be extra vigilant to ensure food is cooked.