Why I Switched to a 1.1 Cubic Foot Microwave: My Personal Experience and Expert Insights

When I first set out to find the perfect microwave for my kitchen, I had no idea how much of a game changer a 1.1 cubic foot microwave could be. In today’s fast-paced world, where convenience and efficiency reign supreme, this compact powerhouse effortlessly blends functionality with style. As I explored the myriad options available, I discovered that this size strikes the ideal balance between spaciousness and space-saving design, making it a versatile choice for any home. From reheating leftovers to whipping up quick meals, a 1.1 cubic foot microwave offers an array of features that cater to modern culinary needs. Join me as I delve into the reasons why this size has become a staple in kitchens everywhere and how it can transform your cooking experience.

I Personally Reviewed the 1.1 Cubic Foot Microwave and Here Are My Honest Recommendations

1. Farberware Countertop Microwave 1000 Watts, 1.1 cu ft – Microwave Oven With LED Lighting and Child Lock – Perfect for Apartments and Dorms – Easy Clean Stainless Steel

When it comes to kitchen appliances, I often find myself prioritizing efficiency, convenience, and safety. The Farberware Countertop Microwave has caught my attention for its impressive specifications and thoughtful features. With a power of 1000 watts and a capacity of 1.1 cubic feet, this microwave is not just a space-saver, but also a powerhouse that can handle a variety of cooking tasks. Whether I’m reheating leftovers, defrosting meats, or even cooking a quick meal, this microwave seems to fit the bill perfectly.

One of the standout features of this microwave is its LED lighting. I appreciate how it illuminates the interior, allowing me to monitor my food without having to open the door. This small detail enhances the cooking experience, providing clarity and ease while I’m preparing meals. Moreover, the easy clean stainless steel finish not only makes it aesthetically pleasing but also simplifies maintenance. I can easily wipe it down after use, keeping my kitchen looking tidy and organized.

Safety is a significant consideration for me, especially when it comes to kitchen appliances. The inclusion of a child lock feature is a thoughtful addition that reassures me, particularly if I have little ones around. This feature ensures that curious hands cannot accidentally open the microwave or change its settings. For anyone living in apartments or dorms, where space is often limited, this microwave is a perfect fit. It offers a compact design without sacrificing functionality, making it an ideal choice for those who need a reliable cooking option without taking up too much room.

From my perspective, the Farberware Countertop Microwave stands out not just for its specs but for its user-friendly features. The combination of high wattage, a spacious interior, LED lighting, and child safety measures makes it an excellent investment for anyone looking to streamline their cooking process. I can easily envision it becoming a staple in my kitchen, helping me save time and effort while preparing meals.

if you are in the market for a microwave that combines functionality, safety, and style, I would highly recommend considering the Farberware Countertop Microwave. Its thoughtful features cater to a wide range of users, from busy professionals to parents with young children. Investing in this microwave could truly enhance your cooking experience, making it a worthwhile addition to your home.

Product Feature	Description
Power	1000 Watts for efficient cooking and reheating
Capacity	1.1 cu ft for versatile cooking options
Lighting	LED lighting for easy monitoring of food
Finish	Easy clean stainless steel for maintenance ease
Child Lock	Safety feature to prevent accidental use by children
Ideal for	Apartments and dorms due to compact design

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 1000W, 1.1cu.ft, Black & Stainless Steel, 1.1 Cu.ft

As someone who enjoys the convenience of modern kitchen appliances, I can’t help but feel excited about the BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven. This product is designed not only to make cooking easier but also to enhance your overall kitchen experience. With its sleek black and stainless steel finish, this microwave is not just functional; it also adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen decor.

One of the standout features of this microwave is its pre-programmed buttons for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and dinner plates. This thoughtful design eliminates the guesswork from cooking times and temperatures, making it incredibly user-friendly, especially for busy individuals or families. Imagine being able to prepare a quick meal or snack with just the push of a button. It’s a significant time-saver in today’s fast-paced world.

At 1000 watts, this microwave offers robust cooking power with ten different power settings. This versatility allows me to customize cooking according to the specific needs of each dish. Whether I’m reheating leftovers or defrosting meat, the ability to adjust the power level is essential for achieving the best results. Additionally, the 30 seconds express cooking feature is a game-changer for those moments when I need to heat something up quickly.

The large LED digital display and easy-to-read control panel make operation straightforward and intuitive. I appreciate how user-friendly the interface is, allowing me to navigate through settings without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, the clock and kitchen timer features are handy for keeping track of cooking times, enhancing the overall cooking experience.

Safety is another major consideration, especially for families with children. The child safety lock feature provides peace of mind, allowing me to use the microwave without worrying about little hands getting into trouble. This feature is crucial for ensuring a secure cooking environment, making it a perfect choice for parents.

Furthermore, the removable 12.4” glass turntable ensures even cooking by allowing food to rotate during the heating process. This thoughtful design means I can confidently cook multiple items at once, knowing they’ll be heated evenly. The push-button door release is a small but significant feature that makes access to the microwave easy and seamless, particularly when my hands are full.

With dimensions of 20.2” x 15.6” x 12.1”, this microwave fits comfortably on most kitchen countertops without taking up excessive space. Its compact size makes it an ideal choice for apartments, dorm rooms, or anyone looking to maximize their kitchen area.

Feature	Description
Power	1000 Watts with 10 power settings
Capacity	1.1 Cu.ft
Pre-programmed Buttons	Popcorn, Potato, Pizza, Frozen Vegetable, Beverage, Dinner Plate
Display	Large LED digital display
Safety Features	Child safety lock
Turntable	Removable 12.4” glass turntable
Dimensions	20.2” x 15.6” x 12.1”
Door Type	Push-button door release

the BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven is an excellent investment for anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine without sacrificing style or safety. Its array of features makes it suitable for singles, families, or anyone who appreciates the ease of use in the kitchen. The combination of powerful performance, user-friendly design, and thoughtful safety features makes this microwave a fantastic choice. If you’re ready to elevate your cooking experience, I highly recommend considering this microwave for your home. It’s a decision you won’t regret!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. SHARP SMC1161KW Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 12.4″ Carousel Turntable, 1.1 Cubic Feet, 1000 Watt CuFt, White

As I explored the SHARP SMC1161KW Countertop Microwave Oven, I was immediately drawn to its combination of practicality and sleek design. This microwave, with its medium-sized 1.1 cubic feet capacity, is perfect for individuals or small families looking for an efficient and stylish addition to their kitchen. The 1000 watts of power ensures that my food is cooked quickly and evenly, which is essential for anyone with a busy lifestyle like mine.

One of the standout features that caught my attention is the 12.4″ carousel turntable. I appreciate how this design promotes even cooking, eliminating the frustration of hot and cold spots often found in lesser microwaves. The turntable rotates my dishes, ensuring that everything from leftovers to freshly cooked meals is heated perfectly. It’s a small but significant detail that truly enhances the cooking experience.

The microwave also boasts a modern gray interior, which not only looks great but is also practical for easy cleaning. I can’t help but admire the white LED display and the LED interior lighting, which create a bright and inviting atmosphere when I’m preparing meals. These details may seem trivial, but they add to the overall aesthetic of my kitchen and make the cooking process more enjoyable.

With the SHARP SMC1161KW, I also have access to ten power levels and a two-stage cooking option, which gives me the flexibility to prepare a wide range of dishes. Whether I’m reheating pizza or defrosting chicken, the microwave provides the versatility I need. I particularly love the convenient “+30 seconds” key that allows me to add time with just a single press—perfect for when I want to quickly heat something without fussing with buttons.

Another fantastic feature is the Auto Cook option for popular menu items. It takes the guesswork out of cooking, allowing me to simply select the dish and let the microwave do the rest. Additionally, the Weight and Time Defrost functions ensure that my food thaws accurately, saving me time and preventing any mishaps with unevenly thawed meals.

Lastly, I appreciate the “Express Cook” feature, which allows me to cook for up to six minutes with a single press. This is incredibly handy for quick meals or snacks when I’m in a hurry. The microwave genuinely embodies convenience, making it a practical choice for anyone who values efficiency without sacrificing quality.

I can confidently say that the SHARP SMC1161KW Countertop Microwave Oven is an excellent investment for anyone looking to enhance their cooking experience. With its stylish design, powerful performance, and user-friendly features, it’s poised to become a reliable kitchen companion. If you’re in the market for a new microwave, I highly recommend considering this model. It’s a purchase that will simplify your meal preparation and elevate your kitchen’s aesthetics.

Feature	Description
Capacity	1.1 cubic feet
Power	1000 watts
Turntable	12.4″ Carousel for even cooking
Power Levels	10 Power Levels with 2-stage cooking
Convenience Features	+30 seconds key, Auto Cook, Weight and Time Defrost, Express Cook
Design	Stylish black/white with gray interior and white LED display
Interior Lighting	LED Interior Lighting

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Farberware FM11BKA Compact Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. 1100-Watt with LED Lighting, Child Lock, Easy Clean Grey Interior, Black

I recently had the opportunity to explore the Farberware FM11BKA Compact Countertop Microwave Oven, and I must say, it has truly impressed me with its blend of functionality and style. This microwave, boasting a capacity of 1.1 Cu. Ft. and 1100 Watts of power, is perfect for anyone looking for a compact solution that doesn’t skimp on performance. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student living in a small apartment, or a parent juggling multiple tasks, this microwave is designed to simplify meal preparation and snacking in an efficient and convenient manner.

One of the standout features of this microwave is its quick and easy cooking capabilities. With 1000 Watts of output power, I can prepare meals and snacks in no time at all. The Express cooking feature allows me to cook food for 1 to 6 minutes with just the push of a button, while the Plus 30 sec. button gives me the flexibility for those moments when I just need a little extra time. Additionally, the memory function is a game changer, allowing me to store my most frequently used customized settings for even quicker access in the future. This level of convenience is particularly appealing to me, as it saves valuable time during busy days.

Furthermore, the Farberware microwave is incredibly versatile. It offers 10 power levels and multi-stage cooking, which means I can fully customize my cooking experience. The 6 one-touch cooking programs, including options for popcorn, potato, and pizza, make it easy to cook my favorite foods with minimal effort. The defrost feature is also a major plus, allowing me to defrost food by weight or by time settings, making meal prep quicker and more efficient.

Another aspect that I appreciate is the design of the microwave. The sleek black front and handle add a stylish touch to my kitchen, making it not just a functional appliance but also an elegant one. The LED display with a kitchen timer and clock is easy to read, which helps me keep track of my cooking times. Additionally, the interior LED lighting allows me to monitor my food without having to open the microwave door, preserving heat and ensuring even cooking.

Safety is also a priority with the Farberware FM11BKA, as it features a child safety lock function. This added level of security gives me peace of mind, particularly in a household with young children. I can feel confident that my little ones won’t accidentally operate the microwave when I’m not watching.

Feature	Description
Power Output	1100 Watts for quick cooking
Capacity	1.1 Cu. Ft., suitable for small spaces
Cooking Options	10 power levels, 6 one-touch cooking programs
Convenience	Express cooking and memory function
Design	Sleek black finish with LED display and lighting
Safety	Child safety lock function

the Farberware FM11BKA Compact Countertop Microwave Oven is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a reliable and stylish cooking appliance that fits seamlessly into smaller spaces. Its powerful performance, convenient features, and elegant design make it an excellent addition to any kitchen. If you’re looking for a microwave that can handle your cooking needs efficiently while also adding a touch of style to your home, I wholeheartedly recommend considering this model. It might just be the perfect solution for you!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

How a 1.1 Cubic Foot Microwave Has Improved My Daily Life

When I first decided to purchase a 1.1 cubic foot microwave, I had no idea how much it would simplify my daily routine. The size is just perfect for my kitchen; it fits seamlessly on the countertop without taking up too much space. This microwave has become an essential tool in my home, allowing me to prepare meals quickly and efficiently. Whether I’m reheating leftovers or cooking a quick meal from scratch, the convenience it offers is unparalleled.

One of the biggest advantages I’ve experienced is the time saved in meal preparation. With my busy schedule, I often find myself juggling work and personal commitments. The microwave allows me to defrost frozen foods in minutes, which means I can spontaneously decide to cook something without worrying about lengthy preparation times. This flexibility has encouraged me to eat healthier, as I can easily whip up a nutritious meal instead of opting for takeout.

Additionally, the features of my 1.1 cubic foot microwave, like the preset cooking options and the ability to easily adjust power levels, have made cooking a breeze. I no longer have to guess how long to cook certain foods, as the microwave takes the guesswork out of it. Overall,

Buying Guide for a 1.1 Cubic Foot Microwave

Why Choose a 1.1 Cubic Foot Microwave?

When I was searching for a microwave, I found that 1.1 cubic feet was a sweet spot for my kitchen. It offered enough space for my everyday cooking needs without taking up too much counter space. This size is versatile enough to handle most standard dishes, making it a practical choice for both singles and small families.

Features to Look For

During my search, I learned that several features can enhance the usability of a microwave. I found that wattage plays a crucial role in cooking efficiency. Most 1.1 cubic foot microwaves range from 700 to 1,200 watts. Higher wattage means quicker cooking times, which I appreciated when I was in a hurry.

Another feature I valued was the presence of pre-programmed settings. These settings simplify cooking by allowing me to just press a button for common tasks like popcorn or reheating leftovers. I also looked for an easy-to-read control panel. Intuitive controls made my cooking experience much smoother.

Size and Design Considerations

When considering the size, I measured my countertop to ensure the microwave would fit comfortably. I also thought about the overall design. My kitchen has a specific aesthetic, so I preferred a model that complemented my decor. Stainless steel finishes are popular and easy to clean, but I also considered color options that matched my kitchen’s theme.

Safety Features

Safety is another important aspect I looked into. I appreciated models with child lock features. If I ever had little ones around, this would provide peace of mind. Additionally, I considered microwaves with automatic shut-off features, which prevent overheating and potential accidents.

Energy Efficiency

I was also mindful of energy consumption. A microwave that is energy-efficient not only saves on electricity bills but is also better for the environment. I checked for Energy Star ratings, which indicate that the appliance meets certain energy efficiency guidelines.

Price Range and Warranty

Pricing varied quite a bit in my research. I found that 1.1 cubic foot microwaves generally fall into a reasonable price range, making them accessible for most budgets. I also paid attention to warranties; a longer warranty gave me confidence in my purchase. It assured me that the manufacturer stood behind the quality of the product.

Final Thoughts

After weighing all these factors, I felt more informed about what to look for in a 1.1 cubic foot microwave. It’s essential to consider not just the size, but also the features and safety aspects that will suit my cooking style and kitchen needs. Taking the time to evaluate my options ultimately led me to a microwave that I truly enjoy using every day.

Author Profile

Trevor Latson

My name is Trevor Latson, and I’m the founder and author of Busy Toaster.What began as a personal creative outlet has since evolved into a focused platform for thoughtful product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. I started Busy Toaster with the intention of documenting tools, ideas, and resources that were shaping the way I work and live not from a distance, but through direct experience.

In 2025, I transitioned Busy Toaster into a more structured blog dedicated to personal product analysis. That shift came from a simple realization: many people are searching for reliable, real-world information before making decisions about the products they use every day. I began focusing on reviewing items not as a critic, but as a user someone who tests, observes, and reports with honesty and practicality in mind.

Latest entries

• May 1, 2025Personal RecommendationsHow I Successfully Replaced the Negative Lead Battery Terminal on My 2007 Escalade: A Step-by-Step Guide
• May 1, 2025Personal RecommendationsDiscovering the Perfect Lr41 Equivalent Battery: My Expert Experience with Energizer’s Top Choice
• May 1, 2025Personal RecommendationsWhy I Can’t Stop Playing VR Golf Club Quest 3: A First-Person Review from an Avid Golfer
• May 1, 2025Personal RecommendationsTransforming My Bedroom: Why I Chose a Walnut Dresser and You Should Too