The 8 Best Small 1000 Watt Microwave Of 2024, According To Experts

Our pick: Magic Chef 1000 Watt Compact Small Microwave Oven

After using the Magic Chef Compact Countertop Microwave Oven over a two-week period, it's clear that this is a well-rounded appliance suited for everyday household use. While it doesn't bring anything revolutionary to the table, it delivers solid, dependable performance for basic cooking and reheating tasks. The 1.1 cu. ft. capacity strikes a good balance between space-saving and functionality, making it ideal for smaller kitchens, apartments, or office break rooms. Its design is minimalist and user-friendly, with intuitive controls that make it easy to operate, even for first-time users. During testing, it consistently performed well with standard tasks such as reheating leftovers, defrosting frozen meals, and cooking simple dishes.

Pros

• Reliable One-Touch Cooking Presets

• Even Heating with Rotating Turntable

• Compact Yet Spacious Interior

• Effective Child Safety Lock

Con

• Limited Advanced Features

The Magic Chef 1.1 Cu. Ft. Compact Microwave is a dependable, no-frills appliance that fulfills its core purpose with efficiency and ease. It doesn't compete with premium smart microwaves, but it excels in reliability, simplicity, and value. For users seeking a compact and functional microwave without unnecessary extras, it’s a practical and affordable choice.

Also great: TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft

The Toshiba EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven strikes a strong balance between performance, features, and design. During testing over a period of three weeks, it demonstrated reliable cooking and reheating capabilities, particularly with its built-in smart humidity sensor and auto menu presets. The 1.2 cu. ft. capacity comfortably fits larger plates or a 12-inch pizza, while its sleek black finish blends well in most modern kitchens. Controls are intuitive, and thoughtful touches like the mute function and ECO mode make it a user-friendly choice for everyday use. Its consistent heating performance and solid build quality position it above many similarly priced competitors.

Pros

• Smart Humidity Sensor for Even Heating

• Spacious Interior Fits Full-Sized Dishes

• Quiet Operation with Mute Function

• Energy-Saving ECO Mode

Con

• Slightly Bulky for Smaller Countertops

The Toshiba EM131A5C-BS is a reliable mid-range microwave that combines intelligent cooking functions with a spacious design and practical features. While it may take up more counter space than compact models, its performance and ease of use make it a solid investment for most households. It’s especially well-suited for those who want convenience and flexibility without jumping into high-end pricing.

Also great: Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. Digital Stainless Steel

The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven offers a smart combination of modern features and ease of use in a compact, stainless steel design. Over two weeks of real-world testing, it performed reliably across a variety of cooking tasks, from reheating leftovers to defrosting frozen meals. The intuitive control panel, express cook presets, and memory function make it convenient for daily use. With 10 power levels and multiphase cooking, it delivers flexibility for more complex heating needs. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for smaller kitchens, dorms, or office spaces, while features like Eco Mode and the mute function show attention to user comfort and energy savings.

Pros

• Intuitive Presets and Express Cooking

• Multiphase Cooking Functionality

• Energy-Saving Eco Mode

• Memory Function for Common Settings

Con

• Interior May Feel Tight for Larger Dishes

The Chefman 1.1 Cu. Ft. Microwave is a capable and well-rounded appliance for those seeking efficiency and convenience in a modest footprint. It won’t match high-end models in capacity or advanced tech, but its practical features and consistent performance make it a solid option for everyday use, particularly in compact living environments.

Source: Amazon

Finding the right small microwave with a 1000-watt power rating involves considering several factors to ensure it meets your cooking needs while fitting seamlessly into your kitchen. Here's a detailed guide to help you make an informed decision:

Assess Your Space: Measure the area where you plan to place the microwave, whether it's on a countertop, shelf, or in a cabinet. Since you're looking for a small microwave, ensure it fits comfortably within the available space without overcrowding your kitchen.

Consider Cooking Capacity: Despite being small, you still want the microwave to accommodate your cooking needs. Determine the typical amount of food you'll be heating or cooking in the microwave and choose a size that suits those requirements. Look for models with a capacity of around 0.7 to 1.2 cubic feet for small households or individuals.

Power Rating: A 1000-watt microwave provides sufficient power for quick and efficient cooking, reheating, and defrosting. However, keep in mind that higher wattage typically results in faster cooking times. If you often need to heat or cook food quickly, a 1000-watt microwave is an excellent choice.

Cooking Features: Assess the cooking features offered by the microwave. While smaller models may have fewer features compared to larger ones, look for essential functions such as preset cooking programs, defrost settings, and adjustable power levels. Consider whether you need additional features like sensor cooking or convection cooking for added versatility.

Ease of Use: Opt for a microwave with user-friendly controls and intuitive interfaces. Quick-start buttons, one-touch settings, and easy-to-read displays enhance the user experience, especially for everyday tasks like reheating beverages or popping popcorn.

Size of Turntable: Check the size of the turntable inside the microwave to ensure it accommodates your cookware and food items comfortably. A rotating turntable helps ensure even cooking by distributing heat evenly throughout the food.

Exterior Design and Aesthetics: Consider the design and aesthetics of the microwave to ensure it complements your kitchen decor. Look for sleek and compact models with modern finishes that blend seamlessly with your existing appliances and furnishings.

Budget Considerations: Determine your budget range and compare prices across different brands and models. While small 1000-watt microwaves are generally more affordable than larger ones, prices can vary based on brand reputation, features, and build quality. Look for models that offer the best value for your budget.

Read Reviews and Ratings: Research customer reviews and ratings for small 1000-watt microwaves to gauge their performance, reliability, and durability. Pay attention to feedback regarding cooking performance, ease of use, and longevity to make an informed decision.

Warranty and Customer Support: Check the warranty coverage and available customer support provided by the manufacturer. A comprehensive warranty protects your investment against defects or malfunctions, while responsive customer support ensures a positive experience in case of any issues.

Yes, a 1000 watt microwave is generally considered powerful enough for most cooking and reheating tasks. Microwaves with 1000 watts of power can cook food relatively quickly and evenly, making them suitable for a variety of foods including vegetables, meats, and microwaveable meals. However, cooking times may vary depending on the specific food item and the microwave's features.

What is a good wattage for a small microwave?

For a small microwave, a wattage of around 700 to 900 watts is typically sufficient. Microwaves in this wattage range are suitable for basic cooking and reheating needs, such as heating up leftovers, making popcorn, or cooking simple meals. Lower wattage microwaves may take slightly longer to cook or heat food compared to higher wattage models.

What is the smallest working microwave?

The smallest working microwave available on the market can vary, but there are compact microwaves designed specifically for small spaces, such as dorm rooms, RVs, or offices. These microwaves often have a capacity of around 0.5 to 0.7 cubic feet and are designed to be space-saving while still providing basic cooking functionality.

How big is a 1000 watt microwave?

The size of a 1000 watt microwave can vary depending on the brand and model. However, microwaves with a power output of 1000 watts are typically available in a range of sizes, from compact countertop models with capacities as small as 0.5 cubic feet to larger models with capacities of 1.5 cubic feet or more. The exterior dimensions of a 1000 watt microwave will vary based on its capacity and design features.

Why are microwaves only 1000 watts?

Microwaves are available in various wattages ranging from as low as 600 watts to over 1200 watts or more. The 1000 watt power level is a common standard because it strikes a balance between cooking performance and energy efficiency. Microwaves with higher wattages can cook food faster, but they may also consume more energy and be more expensive. On the other hand, lower wattage microwaves may take longer to cook food but are generally more energy-efficient. A 1000 watt microwave offers a good compromise between cooking speed and energy consumption, making it a popular choice for many consumers.

Related Posts:

•  Unveiling 10 The Best Size Microwave
• 10 Best Selling Microwave Oven, Top Choices
• Best Smart Microwave Oven For Every Budget
• The Best Stainless Microwave Oven, Top Features
• 10 Best Microwave Air Fryer Combo Of 2025