Tired of waiting ages for your popcorn to pop or your leftovers to heat up? We’ve all been there, staring at a microwave that takes forever. Choosing a countertop microwave, especially one with a good amount of power like 1100 watts, can feel like a puzzle. There are so many brands and features to consider, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. You want something that cooks fast and evenly without breaking the bank.
That’s where this guide comes in! We’ll dive deep into what makes an 1100-watt countertop microwave a fantastic choice for your kitchen. We’ll explore the benefits of this power level, helping you understand why it’s a sweet spot for many homes. By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for, what features really matter, and how to pick the perfect microwave that will make your cooking and reheating tasks a breeze.
Our Top 5 Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
Rating: 9.4/10
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It boasts a generous 1.2 cubic feet of space, easily fitting a 12-inch pizza. With 1000 watts of power, it heats food quickly and efficiently. This microwave features a smart humidity sensor that automatically adjusts cooking time for perfect results on popular foods like potatoes and vegetables. Plus, its sleek black design looks great on any countertop.
What We Like:
- The 1.2 cu ft capacity and 12.4-inch turntable are great for larger meals and fit a 12-inch pizza.
- The pre-programmed sensor menu takes the guesswork out of cooking.
- The mute function is a thoughtful feature for quiet kitchens.
- ECO mode helps save energy.
- The easy-clean interior makes cleanup a breeze.
- It has a stylish black appearance that complements most kitchen decor.
What Could Be Improved:
- The control panel, while easy to read, is covered by a protective film that needs to be removed before use.
- The rated output power for small microwaves is listed as 100W, which could be confusing.
- Customers need to keep the packaging for the 1-year warranty.
This Toshiba microwave offers a blend of convenience and performance, making meal preparation simpler. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and feature-rich countertop microwave.
2. Farberware Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts
Rating: 8.7/10
Looking for a microwave that’s big on power but small in size? The Farberware Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts, 1.6 cu ft is a fantastic choice for anyone needing a reliable appliance that fits neatly into apartments, dorm rooms, or even a busy office kitchen. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks great on any counter, and it’s packed with features to make meal prep a breeze.
What We Like:
- It’s powerful with 1100 watts, cooking food quickly.
- It has ten power levels and multi-stage cooking for custom meals.
- Six one-touch options like popcorn and potato are super convenient.
- The defrost feature works by weight or time, saving you effort.
- The 1.6 cu ft size is perfect for smaller spaces, offering full-sized cooking.
- The interior and exterior are easy to clean, which is a big plus.
- It has a clear LED display, kitchen timer, and clock.
- Interior LED lighting lets you see your food as it cooks.
- A child safety lock provides extra security for families.
- Farberware is a trusted brand known for quality kitchenware.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s a great size for small spaces, some users might want an even larger capacity for bigger meals.
- The sensor cooking feature, while smart, may require some practice to get perfectly calibrated for all food types.
This Farberware microwave offers a great blend of power, convenience, and smart features. It’s an excellent appliance for making everyday cooking and reheating simple and efficient.
3. Emerson MWG1191SB Microwave with Built-in Grill Function
Rating: 9.3/10
The Emerson MWG1191SB is a fantastic microwave that does more than just heat food. It also has a built-in grill, making it super handy for cooking all sorts of meals. Its stainless steel look is really nice and will make your kitchen look stylish. Plus, it’s easy to use with its cool retro buttons and handle.
What We Like:
- Microwave & Grill in One: You can grill, crisp, and brown your food, not just microwave it. This makes cooking pizza or sandwiches much better.
- Powerful 1100W Microwave: It heats food quickly and has 11 power levels so you can cook things just right.
- Sleek Stainless Steel Design: The microwave looks modern and is easy to wipe clean.
- User-Friendly Retro Controls: The old-school buttons and handle are easy to understand and use.
- Convenient Cooking Presets: It has 9 preset options for things like popcorn and vegetables, and defrosting is simple.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 1.1 Cu. Ft. size might be a bit small for very large dishes or families who cook a lot.
- While the retro controls look cool, some users might prefer digital touchpads for a more modern feel.
This Emerson microwave is a great addition to any kitchen for its versatility and style. It’s a smart choice for making everyday cooking easier and more enjoyable.
4. Farberware Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts
Rating: 9.0/10
Meet the Farberware Countertop Microwave, a stylish and powerful kitchen helper. This 1.3 cu ft microwave boasts 1100 watts of cooking power, making meal prep a breeze. Its retro white and platinum design adds a touch of charm to any apartment, dorm room, or office kitchen. It’s packed with smart features to make your cooking experience easy and safe.
What We Like:
- Powerful 1100 Watt Output: Cooks food quickly and efficiently.
- Smart Sensor Cooking: Offers six one-touch cooking options for popular foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- Ten Power Levels & Multi-Stage Cooking: Gives you complete control over your cooking.
- Defrost by Weight or Time: Makes thawing frozen foods simple.
- Compact 1.3 cu ft Size: Fits perfectly in small spaces without sacrificing cooking capacity.
- Easy-Clean Interior and Exterior: Simplifies cleanup after cooking.
- Clear LED Display: Shows the timer and clock for easy time management.
- Interior LED Lighting: Allows you to easily check your food as it cooks.
- Child Safety Lock: Provides extra security for households with children.
- Stylish Retro Design: Adds a classic look to your kitchen.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the size is great for small spaces, it might feel a bit limited for cooking very large dishes.
This Farberware microwave is a fantastic addition for anyone needing a reliable and stylish cooking appliance. It offers great performance and convenience for everyday use.
5. Farberware FM11BKA Compact Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. 1000-Watt with LED Lighting
Rating: 9.1/10
The Farberware FM11BKA is a compact countertop microwave that offers plenty of power and features for everyday cooking. Its sleek black design and 1.1 cubic feet capacity make it a great addition to any kitchen or office space, providing full-sized cooking power without taking up too much room.
What We Like:
- It heats food quickly with 1000 watts of power.
- You can easily cook common foods with six one-touch programs.
- The memory function saves your favorite cooking settings.
- It has a child safety lock for extra security.
- The interior LED light helps you see your food while it cooks.
- Its compact size is perfect for small kitchens or dorm rooms.
- The LED display shows the time and has a kitchen timer.
- Cleaning the grey interior is simple.
What Could Be Improved:
- The express cooking buttons only go up to 6 minutes, which might not be enough for longer cooking times.
- While it has express buttons, some advanced users might want more customizable express options.
This Farberware microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and user-friendly appliance. It balances convenience with powerful cooking, making meal prep a breeze.
Your Guide to the Perfect 1100 Watt Countertop Microwave
Choosing a countertop microwave can feel like a big decision. You want something that heats your food quickly and reliably. An 1100-watt microwave is a great choice for many kitchens. It offers a good balance of power and efficiency. This guide will help you find the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for an 1100-watt countertop microwave, keep these important features in mind:
- Turntable Size: A larger turntable can fit bigger plates and bowls. This is helpful if you often heat family-sized meals.
- Pre-programmed Settings: Many microwaves come with buttons for common foods like popcorn or pizza. These settings take the guesswork out of cooking.
- Sensor Cooking: This smart feature detects the humidity of your food. It then adjusts the cooking time and power level automatically.
- Child Lock: This safety feature prevents children from accidentally turning the microwave on.
- Interior Light: A bright interior light lets you see your food as it cooks.
- Easy-to-Clean Interior: Look for surfaces that wipe down easily. Non-stick interiors are a big plus.
- Digital Display: A clear digital display makes it easy to see cooking times and settings.
Important Materials
The materials used in a microwave’s construction can affect its durability and how easy it is to clean.
- Exterior Casing: Most microwaves have a stainless steel or painted metal exterior. Stainless steel looks sleek and is generally durable. Painted metal is a more budget-friendly option.
- Interior Cavity: The inside of the microwave is usually made of painted metal or stainless steel. Stainless steel interiors are more resistant to scratches and easier to clean.
- Door Window: The glass window on the door should be tempered for safety. It allows you to see inside while cooking.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors can make a microwave better or worse.
What makes a microwave high quality?
- Sturdy Build: A well-built microwave feels solid and doesn’t wobble.
- Consistent Heating: The best microwaves heat food evenly.
- User-Friendly Controls: Buttons and dials that are easy to understand and use are important.
- Quiet Operation: Some microwaves are quieter than others.
What can reduce a microwave’s quality?
- Flimsy Construction: A microwave that feels cheap might not last long.
- Uneven Heating: Food that is cold in some spots and hot in others is a sign of poor quality.
- Complicated Controls: If the buttons are confusing, using the microwave will be frustrating.
- Noisy Operation: A very loud microwave can be disruptive.
User Experience and Use Cases
An 1100-watt countertop microwave is versatile. It’s perfect for everyday tasks.
How will I use it?
- Quick Meal Heating: Reheat leftovers in minutes.
- Defrosting Foods: Safely thaw frozen meats or vegetables.
- Snack Preparation: Pop popcorn or heat up frozen snacks.
- Simple Cooking: Cook baked potatoes or steam vegetables.
A good user experience means the microwave is simple to operate. The controls should be intuitive. Cleaning should not be a chore. A microwave that heats food efficiently saves you time and energy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the advantage of an 1100-watt microwave?
A: An 1100-watt microwave heats food faster than lower-wattage models. This saves you time in the kitchen.
Q: Is 1100 watts enough power for most tasks?
A: Yes, 1100 watts is considered high power. It’s great for everyday cooking and reheating.
Q: What is the difference between sensor cooking and manual cooking?
A: Sensor cooking uses sensors to detect moisture and adjust cooking time. Manual cooking requires you to set the time and power level yourself.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my microwave?
A: You can clean the inside with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tough stains, place a bowl of water with lemon slices inside and microwave for a few minutes. The steam will loosen the grime.
Q: Can I put metal in the microwave?
A: Generally, no. Metal can cause sparks and damage the microwave. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q: How large of a plate can fit in a countertop microwave?
A: This depends on the microwave’s interior dimensions. Larger models can usually fit dinner plates up to 12 inches in diameter.
Q: Are pre-programmed settings accurate?
A: Pre-programmed settings are usually a good starting point. You might need to adjust the time slightly based on your specific food item.
Q: What does a child lock feature do?
A: A child lock prevents the microwave from being turned on accidentally. It’s a useful safety feature for households with young children.
Q: How much counter space does a countertop microwave typically take up?
A: Countertop microwaves vary in size. Most are around 20-24 inches wide, 15-20 inches deep, and 11-14 inches tall. Always measure your counter space before buying.
Q: Is stainless steel interior better than painted interior?
A: Stainless steel interiors are often easier to clean and more resistant to scratches than painted interiors. They can also be more durable.
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!