Tired of meals that are half-cooked and half-cold? Or maybe your current microwave takes ages to heat up your leftovers, leaving you waiting impatiently. You’re not alone! In today’s busy world, a good microwave is a kitchen superhero. But when it comes to 1100 watt countertop microwaves, the choices can feel overwhelming. Do you need all those special features? Which brand is truly reliable? It’s easy to feel lost in a sea of buttons and specifications.
This is where we come in. We’re here to cut through the confusion and shine a spotlight on what makes a great 1100 watt countertop microwave. By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly what to look for. We’ll help you understand the key features, compare different models, and ultimately find the perfect microwave that fits your needs and your budget. Get ready to say goodbye to unevenly heated food and hello to quick, delicious meals!
Our Top 5 1100 Watt Countertop Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 1100 Watt Countertop Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. Farberware Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts
Rating: 9.1/10
Looking for a microwave that’s powerful, convenient, and fits perfectly in smaller spaces? The Farberware Countertop Microwave with 1100 Watts of power and a spacious 1.6 cu ft capacity is a fantastic choice. Its smart sensor technology, LED lighting, and child lock make it a user-friendly and safe option, especially for apartments and dorm rooms. Plus, its stainless steel finish adds a touch of modern style to any kitchen.
What We Like:
- It’s really powerful with 1100 watts, so it heats food fast.
- It has ten power levels and six one-touch cooking options, like for popcorn and potatoes.
- The 1.6 cu ft size is great for small kitchens but still cooks like a bigger microwave.
- The LED display shows the time and has a kitchen timer, which is handy.
- The interior light lets you see your food while it cooks.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands safe.
- It’s easy to clean inside and out.
- Farberware is a trusted brand known for making quality kitchen items.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s good for small spaces, the 1.6 cu ft might feel a bit large for extremely tiny dorm rooms.
- More advanced smart sensor cooking options could be a nice addition for some users.
This Farberware microwave offers a great combination of power and convenience for everyday cooking needs. It’s a reliable appliance that makes meal prep a breeze.
2. Emerson MWG1191SB Microwave with Built-in Grill Function
Rating: 9.2/10
The Emerson MWG1191SB microwave is a versatile kitchen appliance that offers both microwave and grill functions. Its sleek stainless steel design and user-friendly retro controls make it a stylish and easy-to-use addition to any kitchen. With 1100 watts of power, 11 power levels, and 9 preset cooking options, it can handle a variety of cooking tasks, from reheating leftovers to preparing full meals. The built-in grill is perfect for adding a crispy finish to foods like pizza and sandwiches.
What We Like:
- Microwave & Grill Combo: This microwave lets you microwave and grill food. It’s great for making pizza crispy or browning casseroles. You can even get that grilled taste on meats and sandwiches.
- Powerful Cooking: With 1100 watts of power and 11 different power levels, you have precise control over how your food cooks. This means you can gently reheat or cook meals quickly.
- Stylish Look: The stainless steel finish on the cabinet and front looks modern and is easy to clean. It adds a nice touch to your kitchen.
- Easy to Use: The retro-style controls and chromed handle make operating the microwave simple and give it a classic look.
- Convenient Presets: It comes with 9 preset cooking options for popular foods like popcorn and vegetables. The defrost functions are also fast and safe.
What Could Be Improved:
- Grill Power: While the grill function is a nice addition, some users might find the grill power could be stronger for certain cooking tasks.
- Size for Families: The 1.1 cu. ft capacity is good for most needs, but larger families or those who cook in bulk might find it a bit small.
Overall, the Emerson MWG1191SB is a solid choice for anyone seeking a microwave with added grilling capabilities and a stylish design. It offers a good balance of features and convenience for everyday cooking.
3. Farberware Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts
Rating: 9.2/10
The Farberware Countertop Microwave in Retro White and Platinum is a stylish and powerful addition to any kitchen, especially for apartments and dorm rooms. With 1100 watts of cooking power and a generous 1.3 cubic feet of interior space, it handles everything from reheating leftovers to cooking full meals with ease.
What We Like:
- It cooks food quickly and efficiently with 1100 watts of power.
- You can customize your cooking with ten power levels and six one-touch options like popcorn and pizza.
- Defrosting is simple, whether by weight or by time.
- Its 1.3 cu ft size is perfect for small spaces but still offers plenty of room.
- The interior and exterior are easy to clean.
- It has a bright LED display, a kitchen timer, and a clock to keep you on track.
- Interior lighting lets you easily see your food as it cooks.
- A child safety lock provides extra peace of mind.
- The retro design adds a touch of charm to your kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the one-touch options are convenient, some users might prefer more advanced sensor cooking features.
- The “Platinum” color might be a specific preference for some buyers.
This Farberware microwave offers a great balance of power, convenience, and style for everyday use. It’s a reliable appliance that makes meal preparation simple and enjoyable.
4. SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 12.4″ Carousel Turntable
Rating: 9.4/10
The SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven is a powerful and spacious appliance designed to make your cooking and reheating tasks easier. Its large 1.4 cubic feet capacity means you can fit bigger dishes, perfect for family meals. With 1100 watts of power, it cooks food quickly and evenly, thanks to the 12.4-inch carousel turntable. This microwave also boasts a sleek black exterior with a modern gray interior and a bright white LED display and lighting, making it a stylish addition to any kitchen.
What We Like:
- Generous 1.4 cu. ft. family-sized capacity fits large dishes.
- Powerful 1100 watts cooks food fast.
- The 12.4″ carousel turntable ensures even cooking.
- Sensor Cook and Auto Cook take the guesswork out of cooking.
- Convenient “+30 seconds” key for quick cooking bursts.
- Weight and Time Defrost makes thawing simple.
- “Express Cook” lets you cook for up to 6 minutes with one touch.
- Melt/Soften function is handy for delicate foods.
- The new gray interior and LED lighting look modern and are easy to see inside.
What Could Be Improved:
- The exterior is only available in black.
- Some users might find the control panel has many options to learn at first.
This SHARP microwave is a solid choice for busy families. It offers a great balance of power, capacity, and helpful cooking features.
5. Farberware FM11BKA Compact Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. 1000-Watt with LED Lighting
Rating: 9.0/10
The Farberware FM11BKA Compact Countertop Microwave Oven is a powerful and versatile kitchen appliance. It offers a generous 1.1 cubic feet of space and 1000 watts of cooking power. This microwave is designed for convenience and ease of use, making it a great addition to any home or office kitchen.
What We Like:
- It cooks food quickly with 1000 watts of power.
- You can use express cooking for 1 to 6 minutes with one button press.
- The memory function saves your favorite cooking settings.
- It fits easily on your countertop but offers full-sized cooking.
- You can choose from 10 power levels and multi-stage cooking.
- It has 6 one-touch cooking programs for popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- Defrosting by weight or time is simple and fast.
- The LED display shows the time and a kitchen timer.
- Interior LED lighting lets you see your food while it cooks.
- It has a stylish black finish and a child safety lock for extra security.
- The interior is easy to clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the 1.1 cu. ft. capacity a bit small for very large dishes.
- While the exterior is stylish, the black finish might show fingerprints easily.
This Farberware microwave is a great choice for anyone needing a reliable and easy-to-use appliance. It balances power, convenience, and style perfectly.
Your Guide to a 1100 Watt Countertop Microwave: Power and Convenience
Thinking about getting a new microwave? A 1100-watt countertop model is a great choice for many kitchens. It’s powerful enough to cook and reheat food quickly. This guide will help you find the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop, keep these important features in mind:
- Wattage: You’re looking at 1100 watts, which is pretty strong. This means faster cooking times. Some microwaves let you adjust the power level, which is handy for delicate foods.
- Capacity: Microwaves come in different sizes. Think about how much food you usually cook. A standard family size is around 1.0 to 1.6 cubic feet. This gives you enough room for a whole chicken or a large casserole dish.
- Turntable: Most microwaves have a turntable. This glass plate spins your food. It helps food cook more evenly. Make sure the turntable is easy to remove for cleaning.
- Pre-set Cooking Options: Many microwaves have buttons for common foods like popcorn, baked potatoes, or pizza. These make cooking simple.
- Sensor Cooking: This smart feature senses the humidity from the food. It then adjusts the cooking time and power automatically. This prevents overcooking or undercooking.
- Child Lock: If you have little ones, a child lock is a safety must-have. It stops the microwave from being turned on accidentally.
- Interior Light: A good interior light lets you see your food as it cooks. This helps you keep an eye on things.
- Easy-to-Clean Interior: Look for interiors that are smooth and easy to wipe down. Non-stick coatings are a bonus.
Important Materials
The materials used affect durability and cleaning:
- Stainless Steel Interior: This is a popular choice. It’s durable and looks good. It can also be easier to clean than some other materials.
- Ceramic or Porcelain Enamel Interior: These are also good options. They are usually very easy to wipe clean. They resist scratches and stains well.
- Exterior Finish: Stainless steel, black, white, and other colors are common. Stainless steel often looks sleek but can show fingerprints. Choose a finish that matches your kitchen decor and is easy to keep clean.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Here’s what makes a microwave great or not so great:
- Build Quality: A well-built microwave feels sturdy. The door should open and close smoothly. The buttons should feel responsive.
- Even Cooking: A good microwave cooks food evenly. You shouldn’t have hot spots or cold spots.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves are louder than others. Check reviews for comments on how noisy the fan is.
- Ease of Use: The controls should be clear and easy to understand. If it’s complicated, you won’t want to use it.
- Durability: A quality microwave should last for several years. Look for brands known for making reliable appliances.
User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use your microwave?
- Quick Meals: For busy families, a 1100-watt microwave is perfect for reheating leftovers or making quick snacks.
- Defrosting: Its power helps defrost frozen foods quickly and efficiently.
- Cooking Vegetables: Steaming vegetables in the microwave is fast and healthy.
- Making Popcorn: Most people use microwaves for popcorn. A good one makes it perfectly every time.
- Small Kitchens: Countertop models are great for kitchens where space is limited. They don’t require installation.
A 1100-watt countertop microwave offers a good balance of power, features, and convenience for everyday kitchen tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is 1100 watts powerful enough for most cooking tasks?
A: Yes, 1100 watts is considered high power for a microwave. It will cook and reheat food much faster than lower-wattage models.
Q: What is the typical capacity of a 1100-watt countertop microwave?
A: They usually range from about 1.0 to 1.6 cubic feet, which is a good size for most households.
Q: How does a turntable help my food cook?
A: The turntable spins your food while it cooks. This helps your food heat up evenly, so you don’t have cold spots.
Q: What does “sensor cooking” mean?
A: Sensor cooking uses sensors to detect moisture from your food. It then automatically sets the right cooking time and power level.
Q: Are stainless steel interiors better than ceramic ones?
A: Both are good. Stainless steel is durable and looks nice. Ceramic interiors are usually very easy to clean and resist scratches.
Q: How can I tell if a microwave is well-built?
A: A well-built microwave will feel sturdy. The door should open and close smoothly, and the buttons should work well.
Q: What are some common use cases for a 1100-watt microwave?
A: Common uses include reheating meals, defrosting frozen items, cooking vegetables, and making popcorn.
Q: Should I worry about noise from a 1100-watt microwave?
A: Some microwaves can be noisy. It’s a good idea to check customer reviews for comments on the noise level.
Q: What is a “child lock” feature?
A: A child lock prevents the microwave from being turned on accidentally. This is a great safety feature if you have young children.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my microwave?
A: Most microwave interiors can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. Removable turntables can usually be washed in the dishwasher.
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!