Imagine this: you’re craving a quick snack, a warm-up for leftovers, or a perfectly reheated cup of coffee. What’s the one appliance that usually saves the day? Your trusty microwave oven! But when it comes to finding that sweet spot of power and size, the 1.1 cubic foot microwave oven often pops up. It’s a popular choice, but navigating the sea of brands, features, and prices can feel like a puzzle.
Choosing the right 1.1 cubic foot microwave oven isn’t always easy. You want something that fits your space, cooks your food just right, and doesn’t break the bank. Sometimes, you might end up with a microwave that’s too big for your counter or not powerful enough to heat things quickly. This can lead to frustration and wasted time. That’s where we come in!
In this post, we’re going to dive deep into what makes a 1.1 cubic foot microwave oven a great pick for many kitchens. We’ll explore the key features to look for, discuss different types, and even share some tips for getting the most out of yours. By the end, you’ll feel much more confident in finding the perfect microwave to make your kitchen life easier and tastier.
Our Top 5 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave Oven Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave Oven Detailed Reviews
1. Farberware FMWO11AHTBKB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.0/10
The Farberware FMWO11AHTBKB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven in sleek Stainless Steel is designed to make your kitchen life easier. With 1000 watts of power, it cooks food quickly. This microwave is a great addition to any kitchen, dorm room, or office space.
What We Like:
- It’s powerful with 1000 watts of cooking power.
- It has ten different power levels and multi-stage cooking.
- Six one-touch settings like popcorn, potato, and pizza make cooking simple.
- You can defrost food by weight or by time.
- The 1.1 cu. ft. size is perfect for small spaces.
- The interior and exterior are easy to clean.
- It has a clear LED display with a clock and kitchen timer.
- The interior light lets you see your food as it cooks.
- A child safety lock provides extra security.
- Quick start controls let you cook for 1 to 6 minutes instantly.
- The Add 30 Seconds button is very handy.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 1.1 cu. ft. is good for small spaces, some users might prefer a slightly larger capacity for bigger meals.
This Farberware microwave offers a fantastic blend of convenience and power for everyday cooking needs. It’s a reliable choice that simplifies meal preparation.
2. 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 appliance that makes cooking and reheating a breeze. Its black and stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen. With a 1.1 cubic foot capacity, it’s big enough for most meals and dishes. This microwave is designed for convenience, featuring easy-to-use controls and helpful pre-programmed settings.
What We Like:
- It has 1000 watts of power, which heats food quickly.
- Pre-programmed buttons take the guesswork out of cooking common items like popcorn, pizza, and vegetables.
- The 30-second express cooking button is super handy for quick reheating.
- The large LED display is easy to see and read.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands from accidentally starting the microwave.
- The removable 12.4-inch glass turntable ensures even cooking and is easy to clean.
- The push-button door release is simple and convenient.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer a dial for power levels instead of buttons.
- The input power is 1600W, which is higher than some other microwaves.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave offers a great combination of power, features, and style for your kitchen. It’s a reliable choice for busy households.
3. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. Digital Stainless Steel Microwave 1000 Watts with 6 Auto Menus
Rating: 9.4/10
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. Its sleek stainless-steel design looks great on any counter. With 1.1 cubic feet of space and 1000 watts of power, it handles all your heating, defrosting, and cooking needs. This microwave is packed with smart features to make your life easier.
What We Like:
- The 6 Express Cook presets (popcorn, potato, pizza, veggies, beverages, leftovers) take the guesswork out of cooking.
- 10 power levels and 1000 watts give you lots of control for different tasks.
- The Memory function lets you save your favorite settings for quick use.
- Multiphase cooking lets you use two different cooking cycles for one meal.
- The Mute option is great for quiet cooking, perfect for apartments or dorms.
- Eco Mode saves energy by turning off the display when not in use.
- The +30 button makes it easy to add 30 seconds of cooking time with a single press.
- The Child Safety Lock keeps little ones from accidentally turning it on.
- Its modern stainless-steel look and removable turntable make it easy to clean and stylish.
- It’s UL approved and comes with a 1-year assurance from Chefman for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many features, some users might find the initial setup of saved settings a little complicated.
- The 1.1 cu. ft. size is great for most things, but very large dishes might be a tight fit.
This Chefman microwave oven offers a great balance of power, convenience, and modern style. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking for a reliable and feature-rich countertop microwave.
4. GE GCST11X1WSS Microwave Oven
Rating: 9.4/10
Meet the GE GCST11X1WSS Microwave Oven, a stylish and functional addition to any kitchen, dorm, or apartment. This 950-watt microwave boasts a generous 1.1 cu. ft. interior, perfect for reheating leftovers or cooking quick meals. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks great on any countertop, and it comes packed with features to make your cooking experience a breeze.
What We Like:
- The two-step child lock is a great safety feature for families with young children. It’s easy to set up and can be turned off if you don’t need it.
- It offers a good balance of space-saving exterior and a spacious interior. You get plenty of room inside for your food without it taking up too much counter space.
- The convenient controls make it super simple to use. One-touch buttons, a kitchen timer, and cooking complete alarms add to the ease of use.
- The weight and time defrost feature is a real time-saver. Just tell it how much your food weighs, and it figures out the best way to defrost it.
- Setting it up is a cinch. It’s a freestanding microwave that fits easily anywhere, and the 39-inch power cord gives you flexibility.
- It has 6 auto cooking settings for common foods, making meal prep even faster.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many great features, some users might find the auto cooking settings limited for more complex recipes.
- The exterior, being stainless steel, might show fingerprints easily and require frequent wiping to maintain its shine.
This GE microwave is a practical and user-friendly appliance that simplifies everyday cooking. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable microwave with helpful features.
5. Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft.
Rating: 9.3/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven. This 1.1 cubic foot, 1000-watt microwave is designed for speed and convenience. It features 10 power levels and 6 handy cooking presets, making meal prep a breeze. You can even set your favorite cooking functions for one-touch access. Safety and quiet operation are also key, with a child lock, mute button, and energy-saving Eco Mode.
What We Like:
- Extra-quick cooking with 6 presets for popular foods like popcorn and pizza.
- 10 power levels, including a 1000W boost for fast heating.
- Digital controls make it easy to set time and power.
- Memory function lets you save your favorite cooking settings.
- Child safety lock and control panel lock keep little hands safe.
- Mute button lets you turn off beeps for quiet operation.
- Sleek black design fits well in any kitchen.
- Eco Mode saves energy and turns off the display.
- Easy to clean exterior and dishwasher-safe glass turntable.
- cETL approved with advanced safety features for reliability.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 1.1 cu. ft. capacity might be small for very large dishes.
- While it has many features, some users might prefer even more advanced cooking options.
This Chefman microwave is a solid choice for anyone looking for a powerful, easy-to-use, and safe appliance. It brings convenience and modern features to your countertop.
Finding the Perfect 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave Oven: Your Ultimate Buying Guide
A 1.1 cubic foot microwave oven is a great size for many kitchens. It’s big enough to heat up leftovers or cook a small meal, but not so large that it takes up too much counter space. This guide will help you choose the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a 1.1 cu ft microwave, keep these important features in mind:
- Wattage: Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most 1.1 cu ft microwaves range from 900 to 1200 watts. Aim for at least 1000 watts for good performance.
- Turntable: A rotating turntable ensures even heating. Make sure it’s easy to remove for cleaning.
- Preset Cooking Options: Many microwaves have buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, or potatoes. These can be very handy.
- Defrost Settings: This feature lets you thaw frozen food quickly and evenly. Look for options that allow you to defrost by weight or time.
- Interior Light: A light inside helps you see your food as it cooks.
- Child Lock: This safety feature prevents little hands from accidentally turning the microwave on.
- Digital Display and Controls: A clear, easy-to-read display and simple buttons make operating the microwave a breeze.
Important Materials
The materials used in a microwave can affect its durability and how easy it is to clean.
- Interior: Stainless steel interiors are generally more durable and easier to wipe clean than plastic ones. They also tend to look sleeker.
- Exterior: Most microwaves have a painted metal exterior. Look for finishes that resist fingerprints, as these are easier to keep looking nice.
- Door: The door should have a sturdy handle and a clear window so you can check on your food.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a microwave oven better or worse.
- Build Quality: A well-built microwave feels solid. The door should open and close smoothly, and the buttons should have a good feel.
- Ease of Cleaning: A microwave with a smooth interior and a removable turntable is much easier to keep clean.
- Noise Level: Some microwaves can be quite loud when operating. Reading reviews can help you find a quieter model.
- Even Cooking: The best microwaves cook food evenly. This is often related to wattage and the effectiveness of the turntable.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use the microwave most often.
- Small Households or Dorm Rooms: A 1.1 cu ft microwave is perfect for one or two people. It’s ideal for reheating meals, making quick snacks, or cooking simple dishes.
- Office Breakrooms: It’s a good size for a shared space where people need to heat up lunches.
- Countertop Convenience: This size fits well on most kitchen counters without being overwhelming.
10 Frequently Asked Questions about 1.1 Cu Ft Microwave Ovens
Q: What is the main advantage of a 1.1 cu ft microwave?
A: The main advantage is its balanced size. It offers enough space for most everyday cooking needs without taking up too much valuable counter space.
Q: How much counter space does a 1.1 cu ft microwave typically take up?
A: They usually measure around 20-22 inches wide, 15-17 inches deep, and 12-13 inches high. Always check the specific dimensions before buying.
Q: Is 1000 watts enough for a 1.1 cu ft microwave?
A: Yes, 1000 watts is generally considered a good starting point for a 1.1 cu ft microwave. It will cook food efficiently for most tasks.
Q: Can I fit a dinner plate in a 1.1 cu ft microwave?
A: Yes, most standard dinner plates will fit comfortably on the turntable of a 1.1 cu ft microwave.
Q: Are stainless steel interiors better than plastic?
A: Stainless steel interiors are usually more durable and easier to clean than plastic. They also resist stains and odors better.
Q: What does “preset cooking options” mean?
A: Preset cooking options are buttons that automatically set the cooking time and power level for specific foods like popcorn, pizza, or baked potatoes.
Q: How important is the defrost function?
A: The defrost function is very important if you frequently cook from frozen. It helps to thaw food evenly without cooking the edges.
Q: Can I use my own containers in a 1.1 cu ft microwave?
A: Yes, as long as the containers are microwave-safe. Avoid metal or containers with metal trim.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my microwave?
A: You can typically clean the inside by placing a bowl of water with a little lemon juice or vinegar inside and microwaving it for a few minutes. Then, wipe down the interior with a damp cloth.
Q: What should I do if my microwave isn’t heating food evenly?
A: Ensure the turntable is clean and rotating properly. You can also try rearranging the food halfway through cooking to promote more even heating.
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.