Is your kitchen feeling a little cramped, but you still crave the convenience of a microwave? Finding the perfect mid-sized microwave can feel like a treasure hunt. You want something that fits your counter but still cooks your leftovers just right. It’s tough to know which one will be a good fit for your family and your cooking needs.
Many people face this exact problem. They need a microwave that’s not too big and not too small, but the choices can be overwhelming. You might be wondering about power, features, and even how much food it can actually hold. This is where a 1.1 cubic foot microwave often shines, offering a great balance.
By reading on, you’ll discover exactly what makes a 1.1 Cu Ft microwave a smart choice. We’ll break down the key features to look for and highlight some of the best options available. Get ready to find the perfect microwave that makes your kitchen life easier and your meals tastier.
Our Top 5 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 8.7/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven is a sleek and powerful kitchen companion. Its stylish black and stainless steel finish will look great in any kitchen. This microwave makes cooking a breeze with its user-friendly features and ample space.
What We Like:
- It has helpful pre-programmed buttons for common foods like popcorn and pizza.
- The 1000-watt power output cooks food quickly and evenly.
- You can choose from 10 different power settings for precise cooking.
- The 30-second express cooking feature is great for quick reheating.
- The large LED display and easy-to-read control panel make it simple to use.
- A child safety lock provides peace of mind for families.
- The removable 12.4-inch glass turntable is easy to clean.
- The push-button door release makes opening the microwave effortless.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 1.1 cu.ft capacity is good, some might prefer a larger size for bigger meals.
- The input power of 1600W is higher than the output, which is standard but worth noting for energy consumption.
This microwave offers a fantastic blend of style and functionality. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use appliance.
2. Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts
Rating: 9.5/10
The Farberware Countertop Microwave with 1000 Watts of power and a 1.1 cu ft capacity is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, especially for smaller spaces like apartments or dorm rooms. Its sleek stainless steel design is not only stylish but also easy to clean, making your cooking experience hassle-free. This microwave is designed for convenience and efficiency, helping you prepare meals quickly and easily.
What We Like:
- It’s powerful, with 1000 watts for fast cooking.
- It has ten power levels and multi-stage cooking for custom meals.
- Six one-touch options, like popcorn and potato, make cooking simple.
- The defrost feature works by weight or time.
- Its 1.1 cu ft size fits well in small spaces.
- The interior and exterior are easy to clean.
- It features a clear LED display with a timer and clock.
- Interior LED lighting lets you see your food cooking.
- A child safety lock provides extra security.
- Quick start controls for 1-6 minute cooking and an “Add 30 Seconds” button are very handy.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it offers many features, some users might prefer more advanced cooking presets.
This Farberware microwave offers a great balance of power, convenience, and thoughtful features for everyday use. It’s a reliable choice for anyone needing a capable and user-friendly microwave.
3. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 9.2/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a powerful and versatile kitchen appliance. It offers 1000 watts of power and 10 different power levels, so you can cook or reheat food quickly and efficiently. With six convenient cooking presets, including popcorn, pizza, and vegetables, meal prep becomes a breeze. The digital controls are easy to use, and the +30 seconds button lets you add extra cooking time with a single press. Plus, its sleek black design will look great in any kitchen.
What We Like:
- Extra-quick cooking with 1000 watts of power.
- Six handy cooking presets for popular foods.
- 10 power levels allow for precise cooking.
- Memory function lets you save your favorite settings.
- Child safety lock provides peace of mind.
- Mute button is great for quiet kitchens.
- Eco Mode helps save energy.
- Easy to clean exterior and dishwasher-safe turntable.
- Trusted quality with cETL approval and a 1-year assurance.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 1.1 cu. ft. capacity might be a bit small for larger households or bulk cooking.
- While it has many features, some users might prefer more advanced cooking options like convection.
This Chefman microwave makes cooking and reheating simple and convenient. It’s a reliable addition to any kitchen, offering a good balance of power and user-friendly features.
4. Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts
Rating: 8.5/10
The Farberware Countertop Microwave, boasting 1000 watts of power and a 1.1 cu. ft. capacity, is a fantastic kitchen companion. Its sleek stainless steel finish and bright LED lighting make it a stylish and practical addition to any apartment, dorm, or busy kitchen. This microwave is designed for convenience and efficiency, offering a range of features that simplify meal preparation.
What We Like:
- It’s a powerful microwave that cooks food quickly.
- It has ten different power levels, giving you lots of cooking options.
- The six one-touch settings, like for popcorn and pizza, are super handy.
- The defrost feature works by weight or time, making it easy to thaw food.
- Its 1.1 cu. ft. size is perfect for smaller spaces but still cooks like a bigger microwave.
- The interior and exterior are easy to wipe clean.
- The clear LED display shows the time and has a kitchen timer.
- Interior lighting lets you see your food as it cooks.
- A child safety lock provides extra peace of mind.
- Farberware is a trusted brand known for making quality kitchen items.
What Could Be Improved:
- For some users, the exterior might show fingerprints easily.
- More advanced cooking presets could be a nice addition for some.
This Farberware microwave is a smart choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly appliance. It balances power, convenience, and a compact design perfectly.
5. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. Digital Stainless Steel Microwave 1000 Watts with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven. This 1.1 cu. ft. stainless steel microwave packs a powerful 1000 watts for quick and efficient cooking. It’s packed with features like easy-to-use presets and adjustable power levels.
What We Like:
- The 6 Express Cook presets make cooking common items like popcorn and potatoes super simple.
- You can choose from 10 power levels to get the perfect result for any food.
- The Memory Function lets you save your favorite cooking times and power settings.
- Multiphase Cooking lets you use two different cooking cycles in one go.
- The Mute Function is great for quiet kitchens, especially in apartments or dorms.
- Eco Mode saves energy by turning off the display when not in use.
- The +30 Second button offers quick starts for busy moments.
- A Child Safety Lock keeps little hands from starting the microwave.
- Its sleek stainless steel design looks modern and stylish.
- It’s UL approved for safety and comes with a 1-year assurance from Chefman.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many features, some users might find the menu system a bit complex at first.
- The 1.1 cu. ft. capacity is good for most needs but might be small for very large dishes.
This Chefman microwave offers a great blend of convenience and power. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and feature-rich countertop microwave.
Choosing Your Perfect 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave: A Simple Guide
So, you need a new microwave. Maybe your old one gave up the ghost, or you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen. A 1.1 cubic foot microwave is a great middle-ground size. It’s big enough for most everyday tasks but not so huge it takes over your counter. Let’s dive into what makes a good one.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep these important things in mind:
- Wattage: This tells you how powerful the microwave is. More watts mean faster cooking. Look for at least 1000 watts for good performance.
- Turntable: A spinning plate makes sure your food heats evenly. Most microwaves have this, but check that it’s a good size for your plates.
- Pre-set Cooking Options: Many microwaves come with buttons for popcorn, pizza, or defrosting. These can be super handy for quick meals.
- Interior Light: This lets you see your food as it cooks. It’s a small thing, but it’s helpful.
- Child Lock: If you have little ones around, this feature keeps them from accidentally turning the microwave on.
- Easy-to-Clean Interior: Some microwaves have special coatings that make wiping up spills a breeze.
Important Materials
The materials used can affect how long your microwave lasts and how well it works.
- Stainless Steel Interior: This is a durable and easy-to-clean option. It looks good too.
- Glass Turntable: This is standard and works well for rotating food.
- Plastic Exterior: Most microwaves have plastic exteriors. Look for sturdy, well-made plastic that doesn’t feel cheap.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A few things make a microwave better or worse.
- Build Quality: A well-built microwave feels solid. The door should open and close smoothly. Buttons should be responsive.
- Even Heating: The best microwaves heat food evenly without hot or cold spots. This often comes down to good design and sufficient wattage.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves are louder than others. If you’re sensitive to noise, check reviews for comments on this.
- Durability: A good microwave should last for years. Read reviews to see if people report issues with them breaking down quickly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your microwave.
- Everyday Heating: Reheating leftovers, making coffee, or warming up soup are common uses. A 1.1 cu ft model is perfect for this.
- Cooking Simple Meals: You can cook frozen meals, bake potatoes, or steam vegetables.
- Defrosting: Quickly defrosting meat or bread is a lifesaver.
- Popcorn Lover: If you eat a lot of popcorn, make sure it has a good popcorn setting.
A 1.1 cubic foot microwave is a versatile appliance for most kitchens. By considering these features and factors, you can find one that fits your needs and makes your kitchen life a little easier.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main advantage of a 1.1 Cu Ft microwave?
A: The main advantage is its balanced size. It’s big enough for most common kitchen tasks but doesn’t take up too much counter space.
Q: How much wattage should I look for in a 1.1 Cu Ft microwave?
A: For good cooking performance, aim for at least 1000 watts. More watts mean faster and more even heating.
Q: Does the turntable matter?
A: Yes, the turntable is important. It spins your food to help it heat evenly, preventing cold spots.
Q: Are pre-set cooking options really useful?
A: Yes, pre-set options are very useful. They take the guesswork out of cooking common items like popcorn or pizza.
Q: Is a stainless steel interior better than plastic?
A: A stainless steel interior is generally better. It’s more durable, easier to clean, and can look nicer than plastic.
Q: What does “build quality” mean for a microwave?
A: Build quality refers to how well the microwave is put together. It includes things like sturdy construction, smooth-opening doors, and responsive buttons.
Q: Can I cook full meals in a 1.1 Cu Ft microwave?
A: You can cook many simple meals, like baked potatoes or steamed vegetables. It’s great for reheating leftovers and cooking frozen meals too.
Q: What should I do if my microwave isn’t heating evenly?
A: First, make sure the turntable is clean and spinning freely. You can also try rearranging the food halfway through cooking. If the problem continues, there might be an issue with the microwave itself.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my microwave?
A: You can usually clean the inside with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tough messes, heat a bowl of water with lemon juice or vinegar inside for a few minutes. The steam will loosen the grime, making it easier to wipe away.
Q: Are 1.1 Cu Ft microwaves noisy?
A: Noise levels can vary between models. It’s a good idea to check customer reviews for comments on how loud a particular microwave is if noise is a concern for you.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!