Why settle for a microwave that leaves your leftovers cold in the middle? A solid 1100 watt machine acts like a kitchen workhorse that handles everything from morning coffee to frozen dinner prep without any fuss.
Picking the best 1100 watt countertop Microwaves involves understanding how much space you have versus how much food you actually cook. Read on to see which models hold their own against the daily grind.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize models with a smart sensor if you want the microwave to automatically adjust cooking time based on food moisture levels.
- Measure your countertop depth precisely to ensure the unit fits comfortably while leaving room for door clearance.
- Look for easy clean interiors to save yourself from hours of scrubbing splattered sauce.
- Consider a model with a child safety lock if you live in a house with curious little hands.
- Check the turntable size to verify that your largest dinner plates will rotate without bumping into the walls.
| Reliable Kitchen Essential |  |
Commercial Chef 1.1 Cubic Foot Microwave | Simple manual controls | Compact footprint | Reliable heating performance | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Spacious Countertop Workhorse |  |
Sharp 1.4 Cubic Foot Microwave | Large internal capacity | Plenty of power | Sleek modern design | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Versatile Culinary Tool |  |
Emerson 1.1 Cubic Foot Grill Microwave | Built-in grill function | Multiple power levels | Stainless steel finish | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Smart Reheat Specialist |  |
Toshiba 1.3 Cubic Foot Sensor Microwave | Smart sensor reheat | Efficient 1100 watt output | User-friendly display | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Durable Stainless Option |  |
Sharp 1.4 Cubic Foot Stainless Microwave | Aesthetic stainless finish | Roomy interior space | High wattage performance | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| High Capacity Performer |  |
Farberware 1.6 Cubic Foot Sensor Microwave | Massive internal volume | Advanced sensor settings | Powerful 1100 watt motor | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Budget Friendly Basic |  |
Commercial Chef 1.1 Cubic Foot Black Microwave | Simple, clean operation | Standard size for kitchens | Durable black exterior | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Modern Design Choice |  |
Toshiba 1.2 Cubic Foot Stainless Microwave | Sleek stainless design | Reliable even heating | Ideal medium size | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| High Powered Giant |  |
Toshiba 1.6 Cubic Foot Sensor Microwave | Extra high wattage | Large internal capacity | Intelligent sensor tech | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Minimalist Kitchen Staple |  |
Toshiba 1.2 Cubic Foot Black Microwave | Low-profile black design | Consistent heating results | Good mid-range capacity | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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Commercial Chef 1.1 Cubic Foot Microwave
If you want a no-nonsense microwave that gets the job done without any unnecessary bells and whistles, this is your best bet. It offers a solid 1.1 cubic feet of space, which is the ideal size for most standard dinner plates and bowls.
Just keep in mind that the interface is quite basic and functional. It lacks the complex sensor technology found in higher-end models, so you will need to manually set your cooking times for most tasks.
- Brand:Commercial Chef
- Type:Countertop
- Capacity:1.1 Cu. Ft.
- Power:1100 Watts
- Color:White
- Additional Feature:Easy to use interface
- Additional Feature:Glass turntable included
- Additional Feature:Standard kitchen timer
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Sharp 1.4 Cubic Foot Microwave
Sometimes you just need more room to heat up larger dishes, and this 1.4 cubic foot model is perfect for that. It provides a larger interior cavity than standard units, making it a great choice for families who regularly reheat big portions.
The black finish looks sleek, but it can be a bit of a magnet for fingerprints. You might find yourself wiping the door down more often than you would with a stainless steel model.
- Brand:Sharp
- Type:Countertop
- Capacity:1.4 Cu. Ft.
- Power:1100 Watts
- Color:Black
- Additional Feature:Carousel turntable system
- Additional Feature:Intuitive control panel
- Additional Feature:Large door handle
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Emerson 1.1 Cubic Foot Grill Microwave
This is a clever hybrid that combines a standard microwave with a legitimate grill function. If you live in a small apartment but still crave that seared finish on your food, this appliance covers both bases beautifully.
Be aware that using the grill function is a bit different from standard microwaving. It takes a little practice to master the timing so you get the crispiness you want without burning your dinner.
- Brand:Emerson
- Type:Countertop with grill
- Capacity:1.1 Cu. Ft.
- Power:1100 Watts
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Color:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Eleven power levels
- Additional Feature:Nine preset menus
- Additional Feature:Child safety lock
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Toshiba 1.3 Cubic Foot Sensor Microwave
Sensor cooking is a total game changer for anyone who constantly overcooks their food. This model automatically detects moisture levels to prevent your leftovers from turning into rubbery, over-zapped remains.
It is a mid-sized unit that hits a sweet spot between counter space and internal volume. The controls are well-organized, though the sensor features perform best with specific food types rather than experimental cooking.
- Brand:Toshiba
- Type:Countertop
- Capacity:1.3 Cu. Ft.
- Power:1100 Watts
- Additional Feature:Sensor reheat function
- Additional Feature:Digital clock display
- Additional Feature:Pre-programmed buttons
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Sharp 1.4 Cubic Foot Stainless Microwave
Stainless steel remains the gold standard for kitchen aesthetics because it fits in with almost any decor. This 1.4 cubic foot model gives you that premium look alongside a generous interior capacity that handles large bowls with ease.
While it looks fantastic, the stainless steel surface requires consistent polishing to stay looking its best. If you don't mind a little extra maintenance, this unit provides a very polished appearance.
- Brand:Sharp
- Type:Countertop
- Capacity:1.4 Cu. Ft.
- Power:1100 Watts
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Color:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Large glass turntable
- Additional Feature:Easy clean interior
- Additional Feature:Child safety lock
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Farberware 1.6 Cubic Foot Sensor Microwave
If you are tired of playing Tetris with your leftovers, this 1.6 cubic foot unit offers the most space of the bunch. It is like having a mini oven on your counter, capable of fitting large platters that smaller microwaves simply cannot accommodate.
Because of its size, this microwave has a significant footprint. Make sure you measure your counter space carefully before bringing this giant home, as it is definitely not for tight corners.
- Brand:Farberware
- Type:Countertop
- Capacity:1.6 Cu. Ft.
- Power:1100 Watts
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Auto-cook programs
- Additional Feature:Defrost function
- Additional Feature:Child safety lock
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Commercial Chef 1.1 Cubic Foot Black Microwave
Sometimes simple is better, and this black 1.1 cubic foot model proves it. It focuses on the fundamentals of heating without overwhelming you with a confusing array of buttons you will likely never use.
The dark finish is great for hiding small stains or splatters that happen during a busy dinner prep. It is a straightforward workhorse that performs reliably for everyday reheating tasks.
- Brand:Commercial Chef
- Type:Countertop
- Capacity:1.1 Cu. Ft.
- Power:1100 Watts
- Color:Black
- Additional Feature:Manual timer dial
- Additional Feature:Removable glass plate
- Additional Feature:Compact footprint
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Toshiba 1.2 Cubic Foot Stainless Microwave
This model brings a touch of style to the kitchen with its clean stainless steel exterior. It is sized perfectly for the average family, offering 1.2 cubic feet of space that manages most daily tasks without taking over your entire counter.
While it is marketed at 1000 watts, it manages to heat food evenly and consistently. It is a great middle-ground option for anyone who wants a balance between looks and utility.
- Brand:Toshiba
- Type:Countertop
- Capacity:1.2 Cu. Ft.
- Power:1000 Watts
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Additional Feature:Interior light
- Additional Feature:Digital timer
- Additional Feature:Quick start buttons
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Toshiba 1.6 Cubic Foot Sensor Microwave
For those who want the most power and space combined, this is the heavy hitter of the group. With 1200 watts of power, it zaps food faster than its 1100 watt counterparts, making it a time-saving machine for busy households.
Its sheer size means it requires a dedicated space on your counter. However, the added sensor intelligence ensures that the extra power does not result in burnt edges or cold centers.
- Brand:Toshiba
- Type:Countertop
- Capacity:1.6 Cu. Ft.
- Power:1200 Watts
- Additional Feature:Smart sensor technology
- Additional Feature:Preset cooking menus
- Additional Feature:Easy to clean interior
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Toshiba 1.2 Cubic Foot Black Microwave
This black 1.2 cubic foot microwave is the understated hero of the kitchen. It provides a clean, muted look that blends into the background of your decor while providing solid performance for daily snacks and meals.
It is a quiet, capable machine that avoids the flashy aesthetic choices of other brands. If you prefer your appliances to be seen but not heard, this is a fantastic choice for your home.
- Brand:Toshiba
- Type:Countertop
- Capacity:1.2 Cu. Ft.
- Power:1000 Watts
- Color:Black
- Additional Feature:Digital control panel
- Additional Feature:Rotating glass turntable
- Additional Feature:Auto-defrost settings
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 1100 watts significantly better than 900 watts?
Yes, the extra 200 watts make a noticeable difference in speed. You will spend about 20 percent less time waiting for your food to heat up, which adds up over the course of a week. Because 1100 watts provide more power, the heat penetrates dense foods more effectively. This reduces the likelihood of having cold spots in the center of your meal.
Can I put a microwave on top of my refrigerator?
It is generally not a good idea because of the height and heat concerns. Most refrigerators run hot at the top, and adding a microwave can block the ventilation path needed for your fridge to function correctly. Additionally, reaching up to pull out a hot bowl of soup is a recipe for a kitchen spill. Keep your unit on a stable, waist-high surface for safety.
Why does my microwave make a buzzing sound?
That hum is the sound of the magnetron, which is the heavy-duty component responsible for generating the waves that heat your food. It is normal for it to vibrate slightly while it works. If the sound suddenly becomes a loud grinding or rattling noise, check that the turntable ring is properly seated. A misaligned glass tray is the most common cause of weird vibrations.
Do I need a dedicated circuit for my 1100-watt microwave?
While these units can run on a standard 15-amp outlet, they draw a lot of electricity. If you have a toaster or coffee maker on the same circuit, you risk tripping your breaker if both are running at once. To prevent this, plug the microwave into an outlet that isn't shared with other high-draw appliances. This ensures the unit gets the full power it needs to operate efficiently.
How do I clean the inside without harsh chemicals?
The easiest way is to steam away the grime using a bowl of water and a few slices of lemon. Run the microwave on high for 3 to 5 minutes until the interior is steamy. Let it sit for a moment before wiping it down with a soft cloth. The softened food residue will come off easily, leaving your kitchen smelling like citrus instead of burnt popcorn.
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