I've been using my high point microwave for a few months now, and I have to say, it's surprised me in a few ways. Most people encounter this brand when they buy a new RV or a camper, as they seem to be the go-to choice for manufacturers who need something reliable that fits into tight spaces. At first, I wasn't sure if a "no-frills" brand could keep up with the fancy, sensor-heavy models I've used in the past, but it's grown on me.
It isn't trying to be a smart oven that talks to your phone or orders groceries for you. It's just a microwave. And honestly? Sometimes that's exactly what you need when you're just trying to heat up some leftover tacos at 11:00 PM without reading a manual.
Why You See These Everywhere
If you've spent any time in the world of travel trailers or fifth wheels, you know that space is the most valuable currency you have. You can't just slap a giant industrial-sized appliance into a kitchen that's only four feet wide. This is where the high point microwave really shines. They are specifically designed to be compact without feeling like a toy.
Most of these units are built to withstand the "earthquake" that happens every time you pull your trailer down a bumpy highway. Standard household microwaves often have components that rattle loose, but these units seem built for the vibration. I've noticed the mounting brackets and the internal housing are just a bit more rugged, which explains why they are the standard for life on the road.
The Compact Design Factor
Even if you aren't living in a camper, these are great for tiny apartments or dorm rooms. The footprint is small enough that you still have room for a cutting board on your counter, but the interior is usually large enough to fit a standard dinner plate. I've had "compact" microwaves before where I had to tilt the plate to get it in—not the case here.
Does It Actually Cook Well?
Let's talk performance. Most high point models sit somewhere between 900 and 1000 watts. If you're used to a 1200-watt beast, you might find that your frozen burrito takes an extra thirty seconds, but the heat distribution is surprisingly even.
One thing I've noticed is that the turntable doesn't feel flimsy. You know how some cheap microwaves have that glass plate that wobbles or jumps off the tracks if you place a bowl slightly off-center? This one stays seated. It sounds like a small thing, but when you're trying to defrost a pound of ground beef, you don't want to hear clunk-clunk-clunk for six minutes straight.
Making Sense of the Buttons
The interface is pretty straightforward. You have your standard "Express Cook" buttons, which I use about 90% of the time. If I press '1', it goes for a minute. If I press '2', it goes for two. It's simple, and it works.
I will say, the "Popcorn" button is always a gamble on any machine, and the high point microwave is no exception. I still recommend the old-school method of listening for the pops to slow down. If you trust the button blindly, you might end up with a smoky kitchen. But for things like reheating coffee or melting butter, the presets are actually quite accurate.
The Little Quirks and Annoyances
No appliance is perfect, and I'm not going to pretend this one is. The biggest thing you'll notice is the noise. It's not "jet engine" loud, but you definitely know when it's running. It has a very distinct hum that lets you know it's working hard.
Also, the beep is persistent. On some models, if you don't open the door the second it finishes, it will remind you again. And again. It's great if you're forgetful, but if you're trying to be quiet while others are sleeping, you'll want to be quick on the "Stop" button to catch it before that final chime.
The Stiff Door Latch
Another thing I've noticed—and I've heard this from other owners too—is that the door button can be a bit stiff when it's brand new. You really have to give it a firm press to get the latch to release. The good news is that it loosens up over time, and it means the door is actually shut. In an RV, you don't want the microwave door swinging open while you're taking a sharp turn on a mountain road.
Troubleshooting Your High Point Microwave
If you ever run into issues, it's usually something simple. Because these are often installed in vehicles, they are sensitive to power fluctuations. If the display is blank, the first thing I always check is the GFI outlet in the kitchen or the breaker box.
Sometimes, if the microwave just stops heating but the light is on and the plate is spinning, it might be a blown internal fuse. This is actually a common "safety" feature if there was a power surge at a campsite. While I wouldn't recommend taking the casing off yourself unless you know what you're doing (microwaves hold a lot of electricity even when unplugged!), it's a relatively cheap fix for a repair shop.
A quick tip: If your microwave seems to be "ghosting" or resetting itself, make sure it's getting a steady stream of power. RV park power can be notoriously "dirty" or inconsistent, and these units like a steady 120V.
Is It Worth Keeping or Replacing?
A lot of people ask if they should swap out their factory-installed high point microwave for a "name brand" like Samsung or LG. Honestly? Unless you really need a convection oven feature or a built-in air fryer, I'd say stick with what you have.
There is something to be said for an appliance that just does its job without a lot of drama. It's easy to clean—the interior is usually a high-gloss finish that wipes down with just a damp cloth—and the parts are easy to find online if you ever lose the turntable ring or crack the glass plate.
The Replacement Market
If your unit eventually kicks the bucket after years of service, finding a replacement is easy because the dimensions are standardized. You don't have to worry about re-cutting your cabinetry or finding new trim kits. You just slide the old one out and the new one in. That level of convenience is a huge plus in my book.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, a microwave is a tool. We use it to make life a little easier, whether that's a quick breakfast before a hike or a late-night snack. My experience with the high point microwave has been largely positive because it doesn't overpromise. It heats food quickly, fits in small spaces, and is built to handle a bit of a rough life.
It's not the flashiest thing in my kitchen, but it's definitely one of the most reliable. If you just bought a camper and saw this brand on the door, don't worry—you're in good hands. Just maybe keep an eye on that popcorn.