Best Wattage for Microwave Oven: Top Picks for Every Kitchen

Choosing the best wattage for a microwave oven is essential for efficient cooking. Higher wattage means faster cooking, while lower wattage suits basic tasks.
Selecting the right microwave wattage can be confusing. Common wattage options range from 700 to 1200 watts. Lower wattage microwaves, like the Comfee EM720CPL-PMB at 700 watts, are ideal for simple reheating. Mid-range options, like the BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 at 1000 watts, provide a balance of speed and versatility.
High-wattage models, such as the Panasonic NN-SN686S at 1200 watts, offer quick, even cooking for more complex dishes. Each wattage level serves different cooking needs, so understanding your requirements will help you choose the best microwave for your kitchen.
Toshiba Em131a5c-bs Countertop Microwave Oven

The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen appliance designed to make cooking and reheating food more convenient. With a 1.2 cu ft capacity and a 12.4″ removable turntable, this microwave offers ample space for a variety of dishes. It features a smart humidity sensor and 12 auto menus to ensure your food is cooked perfectly every time. Additionally, the mute function and ECO mode add to its user-friendly design, while the easy clean interior makes maintenance a breeze. This model comes in a sleek black stainless steel color and operates at 1100W for efficient performance.
Pros:
- Smart humidity sensor ensures perfectly cooked food.
- 12 auto menus for a variety of cooking options.
- Mute function for quiet operation.
- ECO mode saves energy.
- Easy clean interior for hassle-free maintenance.
- Sleek black stainless steel color.
- 1100W power for efficient performance.
- 1.2 cu ft capacity with 12.4″ removable turntable.
Cons:
- Dimensions may be too large for smaller kitchens.
- Weight of 34.6 pounds may be cumbersome for some users.
- Height of 15.0 inches may not fit under all cabinets.
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Oven stands out for its combination of functionality and sleek design. The smart humidity sensor is a particularly notable feature, as it adjusts cooking time and power levels to ensure your food is cooked to perfection. This, along with the 12 auto menus, makes it easier to prepare a variety of dishes without having to manually set the time and power level. The mute function is also a great addition for those who prefer a quieter kitchen environment.
Despite its many advantages, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The dimensions of the microwave may be a bit large for smaller kitchens, and its weight of 34.6 pounds could make it difficult to move or adjust. Additionally, the height of 15.0 inches might not fit under all cabinets, which could be a limitation for some users. However, for those who have the space and are looking for a powerful, versatile microwave, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS is an excellent choice.
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Panasonic Microwave Oven Nn-sn686s

The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S is a versatile and powerful kitchen appliance designed for both countertop and built-in use. With its Inverter Technology and Genius Sensor, it ensures even cooking and precise temperature control. This 1.2 cubic foot microwave boasts a sleek Stainless Steel finish, making it a stylish addition to any kitchen.
Pros:
- Inverter Technology for even cooking
- Genius Sensor for automatic cooking adjustments
- Stylish Stainless Steel design
- High power output of 1200W
Cons:
- Somewhat bulky dimensions
- Heavier than other models at 25.5 pounds
The Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN686S stands out due to its Inverter Technology, which allows for consistent and evenly cooked meals. This technology eliminates the common issue of overcooked edges and undercooked centers, making it perfect for defrosting, reheating, and cooking a variety of dishes. The Genius Sensor further enhances the cooking experience by automatically adjusting time and power based on the food’s moisture content.
Despite its advanced features, the microwave’s dimensions (Height: 12.2 inches, Width: 20.7 inches, Length: 15.8 inches) and weight (25.5 pounds) might be a drawback for those with limited kitchen space. However, the Stainless Steel finish ensures it complements modern kitchen decor. With a powerful 1200W output, it handles cooking tasks efficiently, making it a valuable addition to any household.
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Black+decker Em031mb11 Digital Microwave Oven

The BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven is a versatile and efficient kitchen appliance that combines modern design with advanced features. It offers a spacious 1.1 cu.ft capacity, making it ideal for a variety of cooking needs. This microwave oven is designed with a sleek black and stainless steel finish that complements any kitchen decor.
Pros:
- 1000W power for fast cooking
- Turntable ensures even heating
- Child Safety Lock for added security
- Push-Button Door for ease of use
- Spacious 1.1 cu.ft capacity
Cons:
- Weight of 30.6 pounds can be difficult to move
- Large dimensions may require more counter space
The BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven offers impressive 1000W power, which allows for quick and efficient cooking. The turntable feature ensures that food is heated evenly, reducing the chances of cold spots. The child safety lock is an excellent addition for families, providing peace of mind when the microwave is not in use. The push-button door adds convenience, making it easy to open and close the microwave with minimal effort.
Despite its many advantages, the BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 does have some drawbacks. The microwave’s weight of 30.6 pounds can make it challenging to move or reposition, especially for those with limited strength. Additionally, its large dimensions may require a significant amount of counter space, which could be an issue in smaller kitchens. However, for those who need a reliable and powerful microwave oven, the pros of this model certainly outweigh the cons.
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Comfee Em720cpl-pmb Countertop Microwave Oven

The Comfee EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven is a compact and efficient kitchen appliance designed to make your cooking experience more convenient. With its Sound On/Off feature, ECO Mode, and Easy One-Touch Buttons, this microwave offers a blend of functionality and simplicity. It comes in a sleek black color and has a capacity of 0.7 cubic feet, making it ideal for small kitchens or limited counter space.
Pros:
- Sound On/Off feature for a quieter kitchen environment
- ECO Mode helps save energy
- Easy One-Touch Buttons for quick and simple operation
- Compact size suitable for small spaces
- Sleek black color adds a modern touch to the kitchen
Cons:
- 0.7 Cu Ft capacity may be too small for large families
- 20.3 Pounds weight can be a bit heavy for some users
- Limited power output may not be suitable for all cooking needs
The Comfee EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven stands out for its Sound On/Off feature, which allows you to turn off the microwave beeping sounds, making it a perfect choice for households that prefer a quieter kitchen environment. The ECO Mode is another excellent feature that helps save energy, reducing your electricity bills and making this microwave an eco-friendly option. Its Easy One-Touch Buttons simplify the cooking process, allowing you to quickly heat up your favorite meals with just a press of a button.
Despite its compact size, the Comfee EM720CPL-PMB is well-designed to fit seamlessly into small kitchen spaces, making it an excellent choice for apartments, dorms, or offices. The sleek black color adds a modern and stylish touch to any kitchen decor. However, it’s important to note that the 0.7 cubic feet capacity may be too small for larger families, and its 20.3-pound weight might be cumbersome for some users. Additionally, the limited power output may not be sufficient for all cooking needs, but for everyday reheating and simple cooking tasks, this microwave oven is a reliable and efficient choice.
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Farberware Fm11bka Compact Countertop Microwave Oven

The Farberware FM11BKA Compact Countertop Microwave Oven is a versatile and efficient kitchen appliance designed to meet your daily cooking needs. With a capacity of 1.1 Cu. Ft. and a power output of 1100-Watt, this microwave oven ensures quick and even cooking. The sleek black color and LED lighting add a modern touch to your kitchen, while the child lock feature ensures safety for households with young children. The easy clean grey interior makes maintenance a breeze, and its compact size is perfect for small spaces.
Pros:
- 1100-Watt power ensures quick cooking.
- Compact size fits well in small spaces.
- LED lighting provides clear visibility inside the oven.
- Child lock feature ensures safety.
- Easy clean grey interior simplifies maintenance.
Cons:
- Limited capacity of 1.1 Cu. Ft. may not be sufficient for larger dishes.
- 5.5 Pounds weight might be a bit heavy for some users to move around.
The Farberware FM11BKA Compact Countertop Microwave Oven offers a perfect balance of performance and convenience. Its 1100-Watt power output ensures that your food is cooked evenly and quickly, making it a great choice for busy households. The LED lighting feature not only adds a stylish element but also helps you monitor your cooking progress without opening the door. Additionally, the child lock function provides peace of mind, especially for families with young children. The easy clean grey interior is another significant advantage, as it makes cleaning up after spills and splatters a simple task.
However, the microwave’s limited capacity of 1.1 Cu. Ft. might be a drawback for those who frequently cook larger dishes or need more space. Additionally, its weight of 5.5 Pounds might be cumbersome for some users who need to move the appliance frequently. Despite these minor inconveniences, the Farberware FM11BKA Compact Countertop Microwave Oven remains a highly efficient and reliable choice for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen with a compact yet powerful microwave oven.
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Ge Gcst10a1wss 4-in-1 Microwave Oven

The GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven is a versatile kitchen appliance designed to meet various cooking needs. With its 1,050 Watts power and multiple modes including Air Fryer, Broiler, and Convection, this microwave is ideal for both countertop use and dorm rooms. The Child-Lock Technology ensures safety, making it a reliable addition to any kitchen.
Pros:
- Multiple cooking modes: Air Fryer, Broiler, Convection, Microwave
- 1,050 Watts of power for efficient cooking
- Child-Lock Technology for enhanced safety
- Stainless Steel finish for a modern look
- Compact dimensions suitable for countertops and small spaces
Cons:
- 1.0 Cu. Ft capacity may be small for larger families
- 35.0 pounds weight may be a bit heavy for some users
- Higher price point compared to basic microwave ovens
The GE GCST10A1WSS 4-in-1 Microwave Oven stands out due to its versatility and multiple cooking modes. Whether you need to air fry, broil, or use convection, this microwave has you covered. The 1,050 Watts of power ensures that your food is cooked quickly and evenly, making it a convenient option for those with busy lifestyles. Additionally, the Child-Lock Technology provides an extra layer of safety, which is particularly beneficial for families with young children.
Another notable feature is its Stainless Steel design, which not only looks sleek but is also easy to clean. The compact dimensions make it a perfect fit for countertops and small spaces, such as dorm rooms. However, it’s important to consider that the 1.0 Cu. Ft capacity might be limiting for larger meals, and the 35.0 pounds weight could be cumbersome for some users. Despite these minor drawbacks, the GE GCST10A1WSS offers a range of features that make it a valuable addition to any modern kitchen.
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Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven

Introducing the Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. Digital Stainless Steel Microwave. This powerful 1000-watt microwave is designed to meet all your cooking needs with its 6 auto menus, 10 power levels, Eco Mode, Memory, Mute Function, Child Safety Lock, and easy-to-clean surface. The stainless steel finish adds a sleek and modern look to any kitchen.
Pros:
- Powerful 1000-watt performance for quick and efficient cooking
- 6 auto menus for easy meal preparation
- 10 power levels to suit a variety of cooking needs
- Eco Mode to save energy
- Memory function to store your favorite settings
- Mute function for silent operation
- Child Safety Lock for added security
- Easy to clean stainless steel surface
Cons:
- Relatively heavy at 32.0 pounds
- Limited interior space at 1.1 Cu. Ft.
- Bulky dimensions may not fit in smaller kitchens
The Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven is a versatile and powerful appliance that can handle a variety of cooking tasks with ease. Its 1000-watt performance ensures that food is cooked quickly and evenly. The 6 auto menus simplify meal preparation by providing pre-programmed settings for common dishes. Additionally, the 10 power levels give users the flexibility to cook different types of food at the appropriate power setting.
One of the standout features of this microwave is the Eco Mode, which helps save energy by reducing standby power consumption. The Memory function allows users to save their favorite cooking settings, making it convenient for repeat use. The Mute function is a thoughtful addition for those who prefer silent operation. Safety is also a priority with the Child Safety Lock, which prevents accidental operation by children. Lastly, the easy-to-clean stainless steel surface ensures that maintaining the microwave is a breeze.
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Toshiba Ml-em45p(bs) Countertop Microwave Oven

The TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven is a high-quality kitchen appliance designed to offer convenience and efficiency. With its Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable Function, it ensures even cooking and reheating. The 1.6 Cu.ft capacity and 1200W power make it suitable for a variety of cooking tasks. Its sleek Black Stainless Steel finish adds a modern touch to any kitchen.
Pros:
- Smart Sensor technology for precise cooking
- Position Memory Turntable for even heating
- Large 1.6 Cu.ft capacity
- Powerful 1200W output
- Stylish Black Stainless Steel finish
Cons:
- May be bulky for smaller kitchens
- Higher price point compared to basic models
The TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven stands out with its Smart Sensor technology, which adjusts cooking time and power for optimal results. This feature ensures that your food is cooked evenly, eliminating the guesswork from microwave cooking. Additionally, the Position Memory Turntable function is a unique innovation that remembers the turntable’s position, ensuring that your dish is always in the correct spot for even heating.
This microwave oven’s 1.6 Cu.ft capacity and 1200W power make it suitable for larger meals and more demanding cooking tasks. Its Black Stainless Steel finish not only looks elegant but also complements modern kitchen aesthetics. However, it is important to consider that its larger size may not be ideal for smaller kitchen spaces, and its advanced features come at a higher price point compared to more basic models.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Wattage For A Microwave Oven?
The best wattage for a microwave oven depends on your needs. Generally, 1000W to 1200W is ideal for most households. It ensures even cooking and faster heating.
Why Choose A 1100w Microwave?
A 1100W microwave offers a balance between power and efficiency. It cooks food evenly and quickly, saving time. Ideal for most kitchen tasks.
Is A 1000w Microwave Powerful Enough?
Yes, a 1000W microwave is powerful enough for everyday use. It provides efficient cooking and heating. Suitable for most cooking tasks.
What Is The Advantage Of Higher Wattage Microwaves?
Higher wattage microwaves cook food faster and more evenly. They are ideal for larger families and frequent use. They handle diverse cooking tasks efficiently.
How Does Wattage Affect Microwave Cooking Times?
Higher wattage microwaves cook food faster. Lower wattage microwaves take longer to cook food. Choose wattage based on your cooking needs.
Are 1200w Microwaves More Efficient?
Yes, 1200W microwaves are more efficient. They cook food quickly and evenly. They are perfect for busy kitchens. Ideal for various cooking tasks.
Conclusion
Choosing the best wattage for your microwave oven depends on your needs and cooking habits. Higher wattage microwaves, like the panasonic 1200w and toshiba 1200w, cook food faster and more evenly. They are ideal for busy kitchens and frequent use.
Mid-range options, such as the black+decker 1000w and chefman 1000w, offer a balance of efficiency and energy savings. These are great for everyday use without overwhelming your power bill. Lower wattage models, like the comfee 700w, are perfect for small kitchens or occasional use.
They save energy but may take longer to cook meals. Each of these microwave ovens offers unique features, such as child safety locks and eco modes. Consider your kitchen space, cooking needs, and budget when making your decision. This guide aims to help you find the perfect microwave oven for your home.