Ever stared at your kitchen counter, wondering if your microwave is just the right size? It’s a common kitchen puzzle! Finding the perfect microwave can feel like a guessing game. You want something that fits your space but also cooks your food just right. Too small, and you can’t fit that dinner plate. Too big, and it hogs valuable counter real estate.
The 1.1 cubic foot size sits right in that sweet spot for many homes. It offers more room than the tiny models but doesn’t dominate your kitchen like the super-sized ones. However, even within this popular size, there are tons of features and styles to sort through. It can be confusing to know what truly matters when you’re just trying to heat up leftovers or make popcorn.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We’ll break down what makes a great 1.1 cubic foot microwave. You’ll learn about power levels, helpful features, and how to match one to your cooking style. By the end, you’ll feel confident picking the perfect microwave for your kitchen.
Top 1.1 Cubic Foot Microwave Recommendations
- 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
- 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 16.5” x 11.8”; Color of door frame is stainless steel, enclosure is black
- 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.
- 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
- 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.
- Powerful: When it comes to microwave ovens, our COMMERCIAL CHEF 1100 watt microwave (28.4 lbs.) is your solution to fast & delicious food. Microwave popcorn, microwave pasta, & other tasty favorites!
- 10 Power Levels: Our compact microwave (21''×15.44''×11.3'' ) has 10 outstanding heating settings, including 6 one-touch menus with Weight and Speed Defrost.
- Digital Controls: Heat up food from 30 seconds to 99 minutes with an easy-to-operate digital controls on this countertop microwave with an accurate kitchen timer & digital timer signal when complete.
- Impressive Features: When it comes to countertop microwave ovens, our white microwave cooker is superior with 1100 watts of power, a convenient push button, turntable, & 1.1 cubic foot capacity.
- Grab and Go: This small microwave allows you to heat meals, snacks, and drinks so fast to accommodate your busy life. Our microwave oven helps you can enjoy delicious food without wasting time.
- 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
Choosing Your Perfect 1.1 Cubic Foot Microwave: A Buyer’s Guide
A 1.1 cubic foot microwave is a fantastic size for many kitchens. It offers a good balance between cooking space and fitting comfortably on your countertop. This guide helps you pick the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, certain features make a microwave much better to use. Pay attention to these important points.
Power Output (Wattage)
- High Wattage (1000-1200W): These cook food faster and heat more evenly. They are great if you reheat leftovers often.
- Standard Wattage (800-950W): These work well for simple tasks like melting butter or popping popcorn. They save a little energy.
Cooking Presets and Sensor Cooking
- One-Touch Buttons: Look for buttons like “Popcorn,” “Defrost,” and “Beverage.” These make quick cooking easy.
- Sensor Cooking: This feature measures steam released by the food. It automatically adjusts cooking time. This prevents overcooking.
Turntable Size and Material
The turntable moves your food around. Make sure it is large enough for your dinner plates. Glass is the standard material because it cleans easily.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials used affect how long the microwave lasts and how it looks in your kitchen.
Exterior Casing
- Stainless Steel: This looks modern and resists fingerprints better than standard plastic or painted metal. It is durable.
- Plastic/Painted Metal: These options are usually cheaper. They might show scratches or yellow over time.
Interior Cavity
Most modern microwaves use a **ceramic enamel** interior. This material is very smooth. Spills wipe away without scrubbing. Older or cheaper models might use painted metal, which can chip.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of a microwave is often hidden inside. Here is what boosts or lowers the overall experience.
Quality Boosters
- Inverter Technology: This provides continuous, steady power. It defrosts meat gently without cooking the edges. This is a major quality improvement.
- Quiet Operation: Some microwaves have better sound dampening. If your kitchen is near your living area, a quiet model is a huge plus.
Quality Reducers
- Flimsy Door Latches: If the door feels loose or rattles, the latch mechanism might fail early. Test the door closure before buying.
- Complex Controls: Too many confusing buttons reduce quality of use. Simple, clear digital displays are preferred.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you will use your 1.1 cu. ft. microwave.
Countertop vs. Built-in
- Countertop: These are flexible. You can move them if you rearrange the kitchen. They are the easiest to install.
- Built-in/Over-the-Range: If you choose one that fits into a cabinet space, check the required ventilation space carefully.
Ideal Users
This size is perfect for small families, couples, or dorm rooms. It easily fits a standard 9-inch dinner plate. It handles reheating a full plate of food or cooking a frozen meal quickly. It is not ideal for very large casserole dishes.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 1.1 Cubic Foot Microwaves
Q: How much counter space does a 1.1 cu. ft. microwave need?
A: While the interior is 1.1 cubic feet, the exterior dimensions usually measure about 20-22 inches wide and 12-14 inches high. Always check the specific model’s depth for proper placement.
Q: Is 1.1 cu. ft. big enough for a family of four?
A: It works well for reheating and basic cooking for a family of four. However, if you often cook large family meals or use big serving bowls, you might prefer a larger 1.6 cu. ft. model.
Q: What is the standard wattage for this size?
A: Most quality 1.1 cu. ft. models operate at 1000 watts. Higher wattage ensures faster and more even cooking results.
Q: Are 1.1 cu. ft. models usually cheaper than smaller ones?
A: Not always. Mid-sized microwaves often include better features like inverter technology, which can make them cost more than very basic, smaller models.
Q: What does “Inverter Technology” actually do?
A: Inverter power delivers electricity constantly, even at lower settings. This means your food thaws slowly without getting hot on the outside while the center stays frozen.
Q: Should I worry about fingerprint resistance?
A: If you choose a stainless steel finish, look specifically for “Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel.” This saves you from constant wiping.
Q: How do I clean the inside of a new microwave?
A: Place a bowl of water with a slice of lemon inside. Run it on high for two minutes. The steam loosens stuck-on food, and you can easily wipe the interior clean afterward.
Q: Do I need special ventilation for a countertop 1.1 model?
A: Yes. You should leave at least three inches of space on the sides and back, and four inches above the unit. This space allows hot air to escape safely.
Q: Are digital controls better than dial controls?
A: Digital controls offer more precise time settings (down to the second). Dials are faster for simple tasks but less accurate for specific defrosting needs.
Q: What is the difference between “Reheat” and “Cook” settings?
A: The “Reheat” setting uses lower power levels and often relies on sensor technology to prevent overheating. The “Cook” setting uses full power for making food from scratch.