Ever feel like your kitchen counter is shrinking by the day? In today’s world, we often crave convenience and speed, but finding appliances that fit our limited space can be a real challenge. That’s where the humble 1.1 cubic foot microwave steps in. It’s the perfect size for many kitchens, but navigating the sea of models can feel overwhelming. You want something that heats your food quickly and reliably, but also looks good and doesn’t cost a fortune. It’s easy to get lost in all the features and brands!
But don’t worry! This guide is here to make your microwave hunt much easier. We’ll break down what makes a great 1.1 cubic foot microwave and help you understand the important things to look for. By the end, you’ll feel confident in choosing the right one for your needs. Get ready to discover the perfect countertop companion that makes mealtime a breeze.
Top 1.1 Cubic Foot Microwave Recommendations
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from six popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, or leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 1000W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button.
- MEMORY FUNCTION: Program frequently used countertop microwaves functions into the control panel for one-touch microwave food. All your daily favorites are easy to set up and start microwaving.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally, and you can disable the microwave control panel using the Lock Mode.
- CONVENIENT MICROWAVE: Prepare quick and easy meals in a snap with our powerful microwave. It packs 1000 of output power and features a range of settings for press-and-go speed.
- POWERFUL SETTINGS: This microwave has ten power levels with multi-stage cooking. You can fully customize your cooking with six one-touch options, including popcorn, potato, and pizza. Defrost by weight or by time settings to make quick work of any task.
- PERFECT SIZE: Measuring 1.1 cu ft, this microwave is the ideal small-space solution that offers full-sized cooking in a compact space. It features an easy-to-clean interior and exterior and is perfect for the home or office.
- ALL YOU NEED: This microwave has a clear LED display with a kitchen timer and clock that lets you easily keep track of time. Easy-to-view interior lighting lets you keep an eye on your dish, and a child safety lock adds additional security.
- FARBERWARE: From weeknight favorites to family feasts they'll never forget, Farberware helps today's families craft the meals that make memories and bring everyone together.
- Pre-programmed buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate.Frequency : 60 Hz
- 1000 Watts Output with 10 power settings, clock and kitchen timer, 30 seconds express cooking, Input power: 1600W
- Large LED digital display, easy-to-read control panel, child safety lock, interior light, removable 12.4” glass turntable
- Push-button door release for easy access
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 20.6” x 15” x 11.8”; Color of door frame is stainless steel, enclosure is black
- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This mandatory feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, with the option to deactivate it if not needed.
- SPACE-SAVING EXTERIOR, SPACIOUS INTERIOR: 950 watts of power and 1.1 cu. ft. inside allow for effective, efficient cooking while not taking up valuable kitchen space; glass turntable rotates throughout cycles for optimum cooking
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: Simple, one-touch operation with convenience cooking controls; kitchen timer, child lock controls and cooking complete alarms add convenience
- WEIGHT & TIME DEFROST - Simply enter the weight of the food, and the oven automatically sets the optimal defrosting time and power level or set your desired time for defrosting
- EASY SET UP: Freestanding microwave fits easily on countertop or open shelf, with 39inch power cord
- 6 Preset Cooking Menus: Equipped with one-touch programs for popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetable, beverage and dinner plate, this countertop microwave oven simplifies meal prep
- Large 1.1 Cu Ft Capacity: Measuring 20.6L x 16.5W x 11.8H inches, this microwave with large capacity but compact size, fits apartments, dorms and offices while accommodating standard dinner plates for everyday reheating needs
- Express Cooking Feature: Start heating instantly with shortcut buttons, combined with 1000 watts and 10 cooking power levels for fast reheating, reducing wait time for hot meals during lunch breaks or late-night snacks.
- Modern Black Finish: The sleek exterior design complements contemporary kitchen décor while the fingerprint-resistant surface maintains a clean appearance, suitable for apartments, condos, and modern homes.
- Child Safety Lock: Hold the cancel button for 5 seconds to activate the control panel lock, preventing curious toddlers from accidentally starting the unit.
- Medium-sized 1.1 cu. ft. capacity, 1000 watts, Stainless
- Orville Redenbacher's Certified Popcorn Presets
- 12.4" Carousel turntable for even cooking; 10 Power Levels with 2-stage cooking
- Convenient "+30 seconds" key for instant start; Auto Cook for popular menu items; Weight and Time Defrost for quick and accurate thawing; Convenient "Express Cook" with single press up to 6 mins cooking
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass turntable.
- Smart Sensor Technology for Optimal Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. Say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked dishes.
- 6 Preset Menus: This countertop microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like pizza, veggle, sensor reheat and more.
- 10 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
- Medium-sized 1.1 cu. ft. capacity, 1000 watts, Black/White
- New! Cooking platform and stylish design; New! Gray Interior; New! White LED Display; New! LED Interior Lighting
- 12.4" Carousel turntable for even cooking; 10 Power Levels with 2-stage cooking
- Convenient "+30 seconds" key for instant start; Auto Cook for popular menu items
- Weight and Time Defrost for quick and accurate thawing; Convenient “Express Cook” with single press up to 6 mins cooking
Your Guide to the Perfect 1.1 Cubic Foot Microwave
So, you’re on the hunt for a new microwave, and you’ve landed on the 1.1 cubic foot size. That’s a great choice for many kitchens! It’s not too big, not too small, and perfect for everyday tasks. This guide will help you find the best one for your needs.
Why 1.1 Cubic Foot?
This size is a sweet spot. It’s large enough to fit most dinner plates and smaller casserole dishes. It’s also compact enough to fit comfortably on most countertops without taking over. It’s ideal for singles, couples, or small families who need a reliable appliance for reheating leftovers, making popcorn, or quickly cooking meals.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re choosing a 1.1 cubic foot microwave, keep these important features in mind:
- Wattage: This tells you how powerful your microwave is. More watts usually mean faster cooking. Look for at least 900 watts for good performance.
- Turntable Size: A larger turntable (usually 10-12 inches) helps food cook more evenly.
- Preset Cooking Options: Many microwaves come with buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or baked potatoes. These make cooking super easy.
- Defrost Settings: This feature lets you thaw frozen foods quickly and safely.
- Digital Display and Controls: A clear digital display makes it easy to set cooking times and power levels. Simple buttons are also a plus.
- Child Lock: This is a great safety feature if you have little ones in the house.
Important Materials
Most microwaves are made with durable materials that are built to last.
- Exterior: The outside is usually made of stainless steel or painted metal. Stainless steel looks sleek and is easy to clean, but it can show fingerprints.
- Interior: The inside cavity is often coated with a non-stick material, like enamel or a special ceramic coating. These are easy to wipe down after use.
- Door: The door has a glass window so you can see your food. It also has a metal mesh inside to block microwaves from escaping.
What Makes a Microwave Great (or Not So Great)
Several things can affect how good your microwave is.
- Build Quality: A sturdy build means the microwave won’t move around when you open or close the door.
- Even Cooking: The best microwaves cook food evenly without hot or cold spots. This often depends on the wattage and how well the microwave distributes the energy.
- Ease of Cleaning: A smooth interior and simple controls make cleaning a breeze.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves are louder than others. If you’re sensitive to noise, look for models that are known to be quieter.
- Durability: A well-made microwave will last for many years.
User Experience and Use Cases
A 1.1 cubic foot microwave is super versatile.
- Quick Meals: Reheat last night’s dinner in minutes.
- Snacks: Pop popcorn for movie night or heat up a frozen snack.
- Simple Cooking: Cook vegetables, steam fish, or heat up soup.
- Defrosting: Quickly thaw meat or other frozen items before cooking.
- Busy Lifestyles: It’s a lifesaver for busy students, professionals, or anyone who needs to get food ready fast.
It fits well on most kitchen counters. It’s also a good size for dorm rooms or small office break rooms.
Your Top 10 FAQs Answered
Here are some common questions about 1.1 cubic foot microwaves.
Q: What’s the average wattage for a 1.1 cubic foot microwave?
A: Most 1.1 cubic foot microwaves have between 900 and 1200 watts. Higher wattage cooks food faster.
Q: How big of a plate can fit inside?
A: You can usually fit standard dinner plates, which are around 10-11 inches in diameter. Some larger or oddly shaped dishes might not fit well.
Q: Are stainless steel microwaves hard to keep clean?
A: Stainless steel looks great, but it can show fingerprints and smudges. You’ll need to wipe it down regularly with a microfiber cloth and stainless steel cleaner.
Q: What does “preset cooking” mean?
A: Preset cooking means the microwave has special buttons for specific foods. You press the button for “popcorn,” and the microwave cooks it perfectly without you having to guess the time.
Q: Is a turntable important?
A: Yes, a turntable is very important. It rotates your food while it cooks, making sure it heats up evenly. This prevents cold spots in your food.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my microwave?
A: You can usually clean the inside by wiping it with a damp cloth and mild soap. For stubborn spots, microwave a bowl of water with lemon juice for a few minutes, then wipe it clean.
Q: What’s the difference between a microwave and a convection microwave?
A: A regular microwave heats food using microwaves. A convection microwave has a fan that blows hot air, so it can also bake and roast food, similar to an oven.
Q: Is a 1.1 cubic foot microwave too small for a family?
A: For a family of three or four, it might be a bit small for cooking full meals. It’s great for reheating or making snacks, but a larger size might be better for family-sized dishes.
Q: Can I put metal in a microwave?
A: You should never put metal in a microwave. Metal can cause sparks and damage the appliance. Always remove food from metal containers before microwaving.
Q: How long do microwaves usually last?
A: With proper care, a good quality microwave can last between 7 to 10 years, or even longer.