Imagine a kitchen appliance that heats your food quickly without hogging all the electricity. Sounds good, right? But when it comes to picking a low wattage microwave, the choices can feel overwhelming. You want something that works well for your needs, but you also don’t want your electric bill to skyrocket. It’s tough to know which one is the best fit for your home and your budget.
Many people worry about microwaves using too much power. This is especially true for those living in smaller spaces, dorm rooms, or places with limited electrical outlets. You might be thinking, “Does a lower wattage microwave really make a difference?” The answer is a resounding yes! Understanding the watts can help you save money and energy.
In this post, we’ll break down what “low wattage” really means for microwaves. We’ll explore the benefits of choosing one and give you clear tips to find the perfect model for your kitchen. Get ready to discover how to heat up your meals smarter and more efficiently!
Our Top 5 Low Wattage Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Low Wattage Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 9.4/10
Meet the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven, a compact powerhouse designed to make your kitchen tasks quicker and easier. This 0.7 cubic foot, 700-watt microwave is perfect for small kitchens or anyone who needs a reliable appliance for everyday cooking and reheating.
What We Like:
- It offers extra-quick cooking with six popular presets like popcorn, pizza, and veggies.
- You can choose from 10 different power levels, giving you control from melting butter to fast cooking.
- Digital controls make it simple to set cooking times and power levels, and the +30 seconds button is handy.
- The memory function lets you save your favorite cooking settings for one-touch starts.
- Safety is a priority with a child safety lock and a control panel lock mode.
- You can silence the annoying beeps with the mute option, which is great for quiet mornings or late nights.
- Its modern, black design fits well in any kitchen, and the Eco Mode helps save power.
- Cleaning is a breeze; the exterior wipes clean easily, and the glass turntable is dishwasher safe.
- It comes with trusted quality and safety features, plus a 1-year assurance from Chefman.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic foot capacity might be a bit small for very large dishes or family-sized meals.
- While 700 watts is standard for compact microwaves, it might cook slightly slower than higher-wattage models.
This Chefman microwave is a smart choice for its convenience, safety features, and sleek design. It’s a reliable appliance that simplifies daily cooking needs.
2. COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off
Rating: 9.1/10
The COMFEE EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact and feature-rich appliance designed for modern kitchens. Its sleek black finish and 0.7 cubic feet capacity make it a great fit for smaller spaces. This microwave offers convenience with its easy one-touch buttons and smart features like ECO Mode and a mute function, making it a practical choice for daily use.
What We Like:
- The mute function is a fantastic addition, letting you heat food without the annoying beeps.
- ECO Mode helps save energy by reducing standby power, which is great for your electricity bill.
- One-touch buttons for popular foods like popcorn and pizza make cooking super easy.
- The express cooking options, including plus 30 seconds, are really handy for quick reheating.
- It has a clear digital display and an interior light, so you can easily see your food.
- The child safety lock provides peace of mind if you have little ones around.
- Two defrost settings (by weight or time) offer flexibility for frozen foods.
- The 10-inch glass turntable fits most common dishes and rotates evenly.
- A one-year limited warranty is included.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic feet capacity might be a bit small for larger meals or bigger dishes.
- While it has many presets, some users might prefer more advanced cooking options.
This COMFEE microwave is a solid choice for anyone seeking a user-friendly and energy-efficient countertop oven with useful features. Its quiet operation and simple controls make it a pleasure to use.
3. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 9.5/10
Meet the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven, a compact and stylish addition to any kitchen. This 0.7 cubic foot microwave boasts a sleek stainless steel finish and a user-friendly design, making it ideal for quick meals and snacks. It’s perfect for dorm rooms, small apartments, or anyone needing a reliable microwave for everyday tasks.
What We Like:
- It has handy pre-programmed buttons for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, pizza, and frozen vegetables.
- The 30-second express cooking feature lets you quickly heat up food with a single touch.
- It offers 10 different power settings, giving you control over how your food cooks.
- 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 glass turntable ensures even cooking and is easy to clean.
- The push-button door release makes opening the microwave quick and easy.
What Could Be Improved:
- At 700 watts, it might take a little longer to cook some items compared to higher-wattage microwaves.
- While compact, some users might prefer a slightly larger capacity for family-sized meals.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a great choice for its convenience and ease of use. It offers a good balance of features for its price point.
4. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 9.0/10
The TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(SS) Small Microwave Oven is a compact powerhouse designed for modern living. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen, and its 0.9 cubic feet capacity is just right for small spaces like apartments and dorm rooms. This microwave makes cooking and reheating simple with its smart features.
What We Like:
- Powerful 900W Cooking: Heats food quickly and efficiently.
- 6 Preset Menus: Makes cooking popular items like popcorn and potatoes a breeze with just one touch.
- 11 Power Levels: Gives you control to cook different foods just right, from gentle defrosting to rapid boiling.
- Easy Defrost: Quickly defrosts food by weight or time, saving you prep time.
- Mute Function: Lets you silence the beeping so you won’t disturb others.
- Child Lock: A vital safety feature that prevents accidental operation, keeping little ones safe.
- Generous Turntable: The 10.6-inch removable glass turntable fits most standard plates and cleans easily.
- Bright LED Lighting: Illuminates the interior so you can easily see your food as it cooks.
What Could Be Improved:
- External Dimensions: While compact, the external dimensions might still be a consideration for very tight spaces.
- Input Power: The 1400-watt input power is higher than the output, which is typical for microwaves but worth noting for energy consumption.
This TOSHIBA microwave is a fantastic choice for anyone needing a reliable, user-friendly, and safe appliance for their smaller kitchen. Its blend of convenience and safety makes it a smart addition to any home.
5. Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts
Rating: 8.6/10
The Farberware Countertop Microwave is a handy kitchen helper. It makes preparing meals super fast. This 700-watt microwave is small but mighty. It fits perfectly in apartments, dorm rooms, or even your office. The stainless steel design looks sleek and is easy to wipe clean.
What We Like:
- It’s powerful for its size, cooking food quickly.
- You get lots of cooking options with ten power levels.
- Six one-touch buttons make cooking popcorn, potatoes, or pizza a breeze.
- Defrosting food by weight or time is simple.
- Its compact 0.7 cu. ft. size is ideal for small spaces.
- The LED display shows the time and has a kitchen timer.
- Interior lighting lets you see your food as it cooks.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands safe.
- The easy-clean interior and exterior save you scrubbing time.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for small spaces, it might be too small for cooking large meals for a family.
- The 700-watt power is good for everyday use, but some might prefer a higher wattage for even faster cooking.
This Farberware microwave is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and easy-to-use appliance for quick meals. It offers great convenience without taking up much room.
Your Guide to Choosing a Low Wattage Microwave
Are you looking for a microwave that’s gentle on your electricity bill and perfect for smaller kitchens? A low wattage microwave might be exactly what you need! These handy appliances use less power than their high-wattage counterparts, making them a smart choice for energy-conscious households. Let’s dive into what makes a great low wattage microwave.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep these important features in mind:
- Wattage: This is the most important thing! Low wattage microwaves usually range from 600 to 900 watts. Lower wattage means less power used.
- Size and Capacity: Microwaves come in different sizes. Think about how much food you usually heat up. Small ones are great for single servings, while medium ones can handle larger plates.
- Turntable: A rotating plate helps your food cook evenly. Most microwaves have this.
- Power Levels: Some microwaves let you adjust the power. This is useful for delicate foods like butter or cheese.
- Preset Programs: Many microwaves have buttons for common foods like popcorn or potatoes. These can make cooking easier.
- Digital Display and Controls: A clear screen and easy-to-use buttons make operating your microwave a breeze.
Important Materials
The materials used in your microwave affect its durability and how it heats food.
- Interior: Most microwave interiors are made of painted metal or stainless steel. Stainless steel is more durable and easier to clean.
- Exterior: The outside is usually plastic or stainless steel. Stainless steel looks sleeker and lasts longer.
- Door: The door has a glass window so you can see your food. The frame should be sturdy.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a low wattage microwave better or not so great.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often make more reliable appliances.
- Build Quality: A microwave that feels solid and well-made will last longer. Check that the door closes smoothly and the buttons feel good when pressed.
- Even Heating: The best microwaves heat food evenly. Cheaper ones might have hot spots, meaning some parts of your food get too hot while others stay cold.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves are louder than others. If you’re sensitive to noise, look for quieter models.
- Ease of Cleaning: A smooth interior that wipes down easily is a big plus.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your microwave matters! Low wattage microwaves are perfect for many situations.
- Small Kitchens: Their compact size fits well on countertops with limited space.
- Single Households: If you only need to heat up one plate or a small meal, a low wattage microwave is efficient.
- Dorm Rooms: They are ideal for students needing a quick way to heat food without using too much electricity.
- Office Breakrooms: These are great for heating lunches and snacks efficiently.
- Specific Cooking Tasks: For tasks like melting butter or defrosting small items, lower power is often better.
A low wattage microwave offers convenience and saves energy. By considering these features and factors, you can find one that fits your needs perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main advantage of a low wattage microwave?
A: The main advantage is that it uses less electricity, saving you money on your energy bills.
Q: Are low wattage microwaves slower than high wattage ones?
A: Yes, they generally take a little longer to heat food because they use less power.
Q: What is a good wattage range for a low wattage microwave?
A: A good range is typically between 600 and 900 watts.
Q: Can I cook a whole meal in a low wattage microwave?
A: You can heat up meals, but cooking from raw might take longer than in a higher wattage model.
Q: Are low wattage microwaves good for defrosting?
A: Yes, they can be good for defrosting, especially for smaller items, as they offer more control.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my microwave?
A: You can wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tougher messes, microwave a bowl of water with lemon juice for a few minutes, then wipe clean.
Q: Does the size of the microwave affect its wattage?
A: Not always. You can find both small and medium-sized microwaves with low wattage.
Q: What does “even heating” mean for a microwave?
A: It means the microwave heats your food all the way through, without cold spots.
Q: Are low wattage microwaves safe to use?
A: Yes, all microwaves sold follow safety standards and are safe to use when operated correctly.
Q: Where is the best place to put a low wattage microwave in my kitchen?
A: It works well on your countertop, especially if you have limited space.
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!