Top 5 1100 Watt Microwaves: Power Cooking Guide

Ever felt frustrated when your microwave takes forever to heat up leftovers? Or maybe your popcorn never pops quite right? Many people face these kitchen struggles. Choosing the perfect microwave oven can feel overwhelming. You see so many watts and features, and it’s hard to know what really matters for your busy life.

Specifically, 1100 Watt microwaves sit in a sweet spot. They offer speed without hogging too much counter space or electricity. But how do you pick the best one among the many brands and models available? Understanding the power and features of an 1100W unit makes all the difference in your daily cooking routine.

This guide cuts through the confusion. We will explore what makes an 1100 Watt microwave a fantastic choice. You will learn exactly what to look for, from sensor cooking to inverter technology. By the end, you will feel confident selecting the ideal powerhouse for your kitchen. Let’s dive into finding the fastest, most reliable microwave for you!

Top 1100 Watt Microwave Ovens Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1
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.
SaleBestseller No. 2
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.
SaleBestseller 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.
Bestseller No. 4
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.
SaleBestseller No. 5
Farberware 1.3 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 1100 Watts Power, Smart Sensor Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - White Platinum
  • 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 1.3 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.
Bestseller 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
SaleBestseller No. 7
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 13.6" Carousel Turntable, 1100 Watt, 1.6 Cubic Feet, Stainless Steel
  • Premium stainless steel countertop microwave oven with modern, blue LED display
  • Family sized 1.6 cu. ft. capacity, to cook food and reheat larger portions
  • Sensor Cook for precise cooking and reheating with 6 presets
  • Auto defrost for quick and accurate thawing
  • One Touch Cook for popcorn and beverages; Express Cook for one-touch cooking up to six minutes
SaleBestseller No. 8
SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 12.4" Carousel Turntable, 1100 Watt, 1.4 Cubic Feet, Stainless Steel
  • Family-sized 1.4 cu. ft. capacity, 1100 watts, Stainless
  • New! Gray Interior; New! White LED Display; New! LED Interior Lighting; New! Inverter Cooking Technology
  • 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

The Power Punch: Your Guide to Buying an 1100 Watt Microwave Oven

An 1100 watt microwave oven offers fantastic speed and cooking power. This guide helps you choose the right one for your kitchen needs.

Key Features to Look For

Wattage is just the start. A good 1100W microwave needs smart features to make your cooking easier.

Cooking Presets and Sensor Cooking

  • One-Touch Cooking: Look for buttons that handle popcorn, pizza, or beverages automatically. These settings use the 1100 watts wisely.
  • Sensor Reheat: This is a big quality booster. The microwave senses how much steam is coming off your food and adjusts the cooking time. This stops your leftovers from becoming rubbery.

Turntable Size and Power Levels

  • Turntable Diameter: For an 1100W model, you usually want a turntable of 12 inches or larger. This lets you fit bigger dinner plates.
  • Variable Power Settings: Even though it boasts 1100 watts, you need lower settings (like 50% or 70%) for gentle defrosting or melting chocolate. High power alone isn’t always best.

Important Materials and Build Quality

The materials inside and outside affect how long your microwave lasts and how easy it is to clean.

Interior Construction

  • Stainless Steel Cavity: Microwaves with stainless steel interiors often last longer than plastic ones. Stainless steel handles high heat better and resists staining.
  • Easy-Clean Coating: Some models use a non-stick coating. This feature significantly reduces scrubbing time after splatters.

Exterior Housing

Most casings use sturdy painted steel. Check the door hinge quality. A heavy, smooth-closing door usually means better overall build quality.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Smart design makes a huge difference in your daily use.

Quality Boosters

  • Inverter Technology: Some advanced 1100W models use inverter technology. This delivers continuous, even power, which heats food more consistently than older models that cycle the power on and off.
  • Quiet Operation: A well-built unit runs quietly. Loud humming or buzzing often signals lower-quality components.

Quality Reducers

  • Flimsy Buttons: If the keypad feels soft or sticks, the electronic controls might fail sooner.
  • Poor Door Sealing: Gaps around the door let out energy and heat. Always test the door seal before you buy.

User Experience and Use Cases

An 1100W microwave shines when speed is necessary, but it handles slow cooking too.

Best Use Cases for 1100 Watts

  • Fast Reheating: This power level heats large bowls of soup or dense casseroles much faster than a standard 900W unit.
  • Quick Defrosting: You can defrost frozen meat in almost half the time. You must use the lower power settings for this, though.

Ease of Use

Look at the control panel layout. Is it intuitive? Can you easily find the “Add 30 Seconds” button? A simple interface reduces frustration.


10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about 1100 Watt Microwaves

Q: Is 1100 watts too powerful for small tasks?

A: No, not if the microwave has good power level settings. You can easily set it to 50% power for simmering or softening butter.

Q: Do 1100W microwaves use much more electricity?

A: They use more power *when running* than a 700W model. However, because they cook food faster, the total energy used for one meal is often similar or only slightly higher.

Q: What size kitchen is an 1100W model best suited for?

A: They fit well in standard family kitchens. They are fast enough for busy households but not so large they overwhelm small countertops.

Q: What is the main benefit over a 1000-watt microwave?

A: The extra 100 watts means a noticeable reduction in cooking time, especially for larger items like whole chickens or big batches of frozen vegetables.

Q: Should I worry about overheating with 1100 watts?

A: Modern microwaves are designed to handle this power. Overheating usually only happens if you run them empty, which you should never do.

Q: Are 1100W models harder to clean?

A: Not necessarily. Cleaning difficulty depends on the interior material, not the wattage. Stainless steel is generally the easiest surface to maintain.

Q: What does ‘Inverter Technology’ mean on an 1100W unit?

A: Inverter technology keeps the power steady and continuous, even at lower settings. This heats food more evenly without hot or cold spots.

Q: How important is the turntable size for this power level?

A: It is very important. A large turntable ensures the fast 1100W energy reaches all parts of the large plate you can fit inside.

Q: Can I use metal cookware in an 1100W microwave?

A: Absolutely not. Metal reflects the microwave energy, which can damage the magnetron (the heart of the microwave).

Q: Where should I place my 1100W microwave?

A: Place it on a stable, flat counter away from heat sources. Ensure there is at least three inches of space around the sides and back for proper ventilation.