Top 5 Countertop Microwaves: 1100 Watt Power Review

Ever waited what feels like forever for your leftovers to heat up? That slow microwave can turn a quick snack into a long wait. Choosing the right countertop microwave matters, especially when you look at wattage. A microwave with just 700 watts might seem cheap, but it leaves you with lukewarm food more often than not. Finding that sweet spot—the perfect 1100-watt model—can be tricky. You worry about power versus price, size versus features, and whether it will actually cook evenly.

This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly why 1100 watts is often the magic number for fast, reliable heating. You will learn what to look for in features, how to compare brands without getting overwhelmed, and ultimately, how to select an 1100-watt machine that fits your kitchen and budget perfectly. Get ready to say goodbye to cold centers in your dinner!

Top Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts Recommendations

No. 1
Farberware 1.6 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1100 Watts Power, Smart Sensor Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - Stainless
  • CONVENIENT MICROWAVE: Prepare quick and easy meals in a snap with our powerful microwave. It packs 1100 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 1.6 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.
No. 2
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior Black Color 1000W
  • 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.
No. 3
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-SS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft with 12.4" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor, 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior, 1000W, Silver
  • 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.
No. 4
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 12.4" Carousel Turntable, 1100 Watt, 1.4 Cubic Feet, Black
  • Family-sized 1.4 cu. ft. capacity, 1100 watts, Black/White
  • 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; Melt/Soften Function; Sensor Cook for precise cooking and reheating; 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
No. 5
Commercial Chef 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven, Touch Controls with Digital LED Display, 1100W Microwave, Push Button Door, 10 Power Levels, CHCM11100W, White
  • 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.
No. 6
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 12.4" Carousel Turntable, 1000 Watt, 1.1 Cubic Feet, Stainless Steel
  • 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
No. 7
Emerson MWG1191SB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Microwave with Built-In Grill Function, 1100W Power, Stainless Steel, LED Timer Display, 11 Power Levels, 9 Preset Cooking Options, Removable Glass Turntable, Child Lock
  • Microwave & Grill in One: Experience versatile cooking with Emerson’s built-in grill function, perfect for crisping pizzas, browning casseroles, or achieving that grilled finish on meats and sandwiches—right from your countertop.
  • Powerful 1100W Microwave Performance: With 11 adjustable power levels, you can precisely control cooking intensity, from gentle reheating to full-powered meal preparation.
  • Sleek Stainless Steel Design: The cabinet and front panel feature a durable stainless steel finish that adds a modern touch to your kitchen while ensuring easy cleaning and long-lasting appeal.
  • User-Friendly Retro Controls: Equipped with chromed handle and vintage-style control buttons for effortless operation and a stylish, classic look.
  • Convenient Cooking Presets & Defrost Options: Includes 9 pre-programmed settings for everyday favorites like popcorn, pizza, vegetables, and more. Plus, time and weight defrost functions make thawing fast and safe.
No. 8
Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1000 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - Stainless
  • 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.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Your 1100-Watt Countertop Microwave

Choosing a new countertop microwave can be simple. You want one that cooks fast and fits your kitchen. An 1100-watt model is a great choice. It offers strong power for quick heating. This guide helps you find the best one.

Key Features to Look For

The best microwaves have features that make cooking easy. Look closely at these important parts before you buy.

Power Levels and Presets

  • Variable Power Settings: Good microwaves let you change the power from 10% to 100%. This helps you gently melt chocolate or fully cook a large meal.
  • One-Touch Cooking: Look for buttons like “Popcorn,” “Defrost,” or “Beverage.” These buttons set the time and power for you automatically.
  • Sensor Cooking: Some high-end models sense steam. They adjust the cooking time so your food never overcooks.

Size and Capacity

Measure your counter space first. An 1100-watt microwave usually has a capacity between 1.0 and 1.6 cubic feet. This size works well for most families. Make sure the door opens easily without hitting nearby cabinets.

Cleaning and Durability

  • Turntable: A glass turntable helps food heat evenly. Check if it is easy to remove and clean.
  • Interior Light: A bright light lets you see inside without opening the door.

Important Materials Matter

The materials used affect how long your microwave lasts and how safe it is.

Interior Construction

Most good microwaves have a stainless steel or painted metal interior. Stainless steel looks modern and cleans easily. Plastic interiors can sometimes stain over time. Make sure the door latch feels sturdy. A strong latch keeps the microwave safe during use.

Exterior Casing

The outside should be made of durable, easy-to-wipe metal or high-quality plastic. Darker colors hide fingerprints better than stainless steel, but stainless steel offers a classic look.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Power (1100 watts) is just one part of the story. Other details boost the quality.

What Makes It Better?

  • Inverter Technology: This technology delivers constant, steady power. It cooks food more evenly than older models that just cycle the power on and off.
  • Quiet Operation: A well-built microwave runs quietly. You won’t hear loud humming while you are watching TV nearby.
  • Child Safety Lock: This is a must-have feature if you have small children. It locks the keypad.

What Lowers the Quality?

Cheap plastic buttons wear out fast. Flimsy doors that wobble when you close them often break sooner. Avoid models with very small digital displays. You need to read the timer clearly.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about how you plan to use your 1100W microwave every day.

Everyday Use

For busy people, speed is key. 1100 watts heats up leftovers and boils water very fast. If you reheat coffee often, a quick 45-second blast should do the trick.

Cooking and Defrosting

Use the high power for fast cooking. Use lower power settings for defrosting meat. Good microwaves have reliable defrost settings that thaw food without cooking the edges first. Test how well it handles frozen dinners. A great microwave cooks the center perfectly.


10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 1100-Watt Microwaves

Q: Is 1100 watts fast enough for most cooking?

A: Yes, 1100 watts is considered a high-power microwave. It heats food much faster than standard 700-watt models. It handles large meals well.

Q: Do I need a special outlet for an 1100W microwave?

A: No, most 1100-watt countertop microwaves use a standard 120-volt wall outlet. They draw a normal amount of current.

Q: What is the difference between this and an inverter microwave?

A: A standard microwave cycles the power on and off to lower the heat. An inverter microwave delivers steady, lower power. Inverter models cook more evenly, especially delicate foods.

Q: How do I clean the inside of my new microwave?

A: Place a bowl of water with a slice of lemon inside. Microwave it on high for three minutes. The steam loosens grime, making wiping the interior easy.

Q: Should I worry about the size of the turntable?

A: Turntable size matters for even cooking. For an 1100W model, look for a turntable that is at least 12 inches wide to fit dinner plates.

Q: Can I use metal pans in this microwave?

A: Never put metal inside any microwave. Metal causes sparks, which can damage the appliance or cause a fire.

Q: What does “sensor cooking” actually do?

A: Sensor cooking uses a humidity sensor. It detects the steam coming off your food. The microwave then automatically stops cooking when the food is done, preventing overcooking.

Q: Are cheaper, lower-wattage models better for certain tasks?

A: Lower-wattage models (like 700W) heat slower. This can be better for very gentle tasks like softening butter, but 1100W handles everyday reheating much better.

Q: What is the typical lifespan of a good 1100W microwave?

A: With regular care, a quality 1100-watt microwave usually lasts between 8 and 12 years.

Q: Where is the best place to put the microwave on the counter?

A: Place it on a flat, stable surface away from the stove or oven heat. Ensure there is a few inches of space around the back and sides for proper ventilation.