The 9 Best 1.1 Cubic Foot Microwave Reviewed

Purchasing a 1.1 cubic foot microwave requires thoughtful consideration to ensure it meets your cooking needs, fits your kitchen space, and offers desirable features. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to keep in mind:

Size and Space

Dimensions: Measure the space where you plan to place the microwave. Ensure it fits well on your countertop, in a built-in cabinet, or any designated area. Verify that there is sufficient clearance for ventilation and for the door to open fully.

Capacity: A 1.1 cubic foot microwave is large enough to accommodate medium-sized dishes, plates, and bowls. This size is suitable for small to medium households and can handle more substantial meals than smaller models.

Power and Wattage

Wattage Range: Microwaves in this size typically have a wattage range of 900 to 1100 watts. This power level provides faster cooking and more even heating, making it versatile for various cooking tasks such as reheating, cooking, and defrosting.

Efficiency: Higher wattage means quicker cooking times and more consistent results. Ensure your kitchen's power supply can support the microwave's wattage without overloading the circuit.

Features and Functions

Preset Programs: Look for microwaves with preset cooking options for common foods like popcorn, pizza, beverages, and vegetables. These presets simplify cooking and help achieve optimal results.

Sensor Cooking: This feature automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on the food’s moisture levels, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time.

Defrost Function: A reliable defrost setting is essential for quickly and evenly thawing frozen foods without partially cooking them.

Turntable: Ensure the microwave has a turntable to rotate the food for even cooking. A removable turntable is also easier to clean.

Power Levels: Multiple power levels allow you to adjust the cooking intensity for different types of food, giving you more control over the cooking process.

Child Lock: If you have children, a child lock feature can prevent accidental operation and enhance safety.

Timer and Clock: A digital timer and clock are useful for precise cooking and keeping track of time.

Design and Aesthetics

Finish and Color: Choose a finish and color that complements your kitchen decor. Common finishes include stainless steel, black, and white. Stainless steel is particularly popular for its modern look and durability.

Control Panel: Look for a user-friendly control panel with clear labels and an easy-to-read display. Touch controls or dials should be intuitive to use.

Price and Warranty

Budget: Set a budget based on the features and capacity you need. While it’s tempting to opt for a less expensive model, investing in a quality microwave with essential features can be more cost-effective in the long run.

Warranty: Check the warranty period offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty can save you from potential repair costs and provides peace of mind. Look for at least a one-year warranty, and consider extended warranties if available.

Brand Reputation and Reviews

Reliable Brands: Research brands known for producing reliable and durable microwaves. Established brands often offer better customer service and higher quality products.

Customer Feedback: Read customer reviews to gain insights into the performance and reliability of specific models. Reviews can highlight common issues or particularly good features, helping you make an informed decision.

Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance

Interior Surface: Look for microwaves with easy-to-clean interiors, such as those with a non-stick or stainless steel finish. A removable turntable and racks that are dishwasher safe can simplify cleaning.

Exterior Maintenance: Ensure the exterior surface is easy to wipe clean and resistant to smudges and fingerprints.

Safety Features

Automatic Shutoff: Some microwaves come with an automatic shutoff feature that turns off the microwave after the cooking cycle is complete, enhancing safety and preventing overcooking.

Venting: Ensure proper ventilation around the microwave to prevent overheating and ensure efficient operation. Built-in models may require specific installation to accommodate ventilation needs.

By considering these factors, you can choose a 1.1 cubic foot microwave that fits your space, meets your cooking needs, and provides reliable performance for a wide range of cooking tasks.

A 1.1 cubic feet microwave is typically considered to be a medium-sized microwave rather than too small. While it may not offer as much cooking space as larger models, it is still adequate for most households' daily cooking needs. It can accommodate standard dinner plates and smaller cookware, making it suitable for reheating leftovers, cooking frozen meals, and preparing various dishes.

Is 1.2 cubic feet a big microwave?

A 1.2 cubic feet microwave is also considered to be a medium-sized microwave, slightly larger than a 1.1 cu ft model. While it provides a bit more cooking space, it is not generally classified as a "big" microwave. It strikes a balance between size and capacity, suitable for many households' cooking requirements.

What is a good cubic size for a microwave?

The ideal cubic size for a microwave depends on factors such as household size, cooking habits, available kitchen space, and individual preferences. Generally, microwaves ranging from 1.0 to 1.6 cubic feet are considered to be a good size for most households. This range provides sufficient cooking capacity for everyday use while remaining compact enough for countertop placement.

Is a 1.1 cubic foot microwave big enough?

For many households, a 1.1 cubic foot microwave is big enough to meet their cooking needs. It can handle standard cooking tasks such as reheating leftovers, defrosting frozen foods, and cooking small to medium-sized dishes. While it may not be suitable for cooking very large items or accommodating oversized cookware, it is adequate for most everyday cooking tasks.

How big is a 1.1 cubic foot microwave?

The external dimensions of a 1.1 cubic feet microwave typically range from approximately 20 to 22 inches in width, 11 to 13 inches in height, and 14 to 16 inches in depth. These dimensions can vary depending on the specific model and manufacturer. Internally, the cooking space will be slightly smaller due to the thickness of the microwave walls and the turntable mechanism.

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