6 Best 1.1 Cubic Foot Microwaves of 2025

This powerhouse performer redefines what a compact microwave can do. With a robust 1000-watt output and a true 1-cubic-foot interior, it delivers even heating and consistent results—especially impressive for reheating dense foods or cooking frozen meals. But where it truly shines is its 25 preprogrammed settings, making it a dream for users who want restaurant-quality results without guesswork. If you hate standing over the keypad punching in time and power levels, this model answers that frustration with surgical precision.

In real-world use, the stainless steel interior doesn’t just look premium—it resists odors and wipes clean effortlessly after splattered sauces or greasy popcorn. The 12-inch glass turntable ensures full rotation, eliminating cold spots even with larger plates. During testing, reheating a full plate of lasagna came out uniformly warm, while the two-stage cooking function allowed seamless transitions—say, defrosting then cooking chicken without restarting. That said, its 37.9-pound heft makes repositioning a two-handed chore, and the abundance of presets can feel overwhelming for minimalists.

Compared to the SHARP B0CNQ9Y534, the Cuisinart offers deeper automation but at a steeper cost and weight. It’s ideal for serious home cooks or small households that value precision and convenience over portability. While the GE models are lighter and more budget-friendly, they can’t match the granular control and premium build of this unit. For those seeking smart cooking intelligence in a compact shell, the Cuisinart CMW-100 is a feature-packed leader that outperforms simpler rivals.

Don’t let the modest price tag fool you—this budget-savvy workhorse punches well above its weight in efficiency and safety. With 950 watts of power and a 1.1-cubic-foot cavity, it handles everything from morning oatmeal to late-night leftovers with dependable consistency. Its standout feature? The two-step child lock, which adds peace of mind in homes with curious kids or shared living spaces like dorms and apartments. For renters or students, this microwave delivers no-frills reliability without sacrificing essential protections.

In daily use, the one-touch auto cook settings—like baked potato or frozen dinner—make meal prep effortless, especially for culinary beginners. The glass turntable rotates smoothly, ensuring even cooking, though dense items like thick stews may need a mid-cycle stir. It’s compact enough to fit on cramped countertops, yet the interior fits a standard dinner plate with room to spare. However, the lower wattage means slightly longer heating times compared to 1000-watt models, and the lack of advanced features like multi-stage cooking limits versatility.

When stacked against the pricier Cuisinart CMW-100, this GE model trades automation for simplicity and affordability. It’s a no-nonsense solution for those who prioritize space-saving design and essential safety over gourmet presets. Compared to the SHARP B0CNQ9Y534, it lacks popcorn certification and express functions, but it matches the Frigidaire in core utility at a lower entry point. If you want dependable, compact heating with built-in child safety, this GE microwave is a smart, wallet-friendly anchor for minimalist kitchens.

Safety takes center stage in this thoughtfully designed, no-fuss microwave built for real-life households. The two-step child lock isn’t just a gimmick—it’s a mandatory activation process that prevents accidental starts, making it a top pick for parents or multi-generational homes. With 950 watts and a 1.1-cubic-foot interior, it balances power and footprint, heating meals quickly without dominating counter space. Whether you’re defrosting chicken or reheating soup, the weight and time defrost functions take the guesswork out, delivering predictable results every time.

On test, the simple control panel proved intuitive, especially for older users or tech-averse family members. The glass turntable spins reliably, though the lack of a removable tray makes cleaning a bit trickier around the edges. It handles everyday tasks like popcorn, beverages, and frozen entrees with ease, but struggles slightly with larger casserole dishes due to the compact width. While it performs on par with the B0D294XFNX, the slightly higher price doesn’t bring new features—just a refreshed build.

Positioned between budget and premium models, this GE microwave is best for those who prioritize safety and ease over advanced cooking options. It doesn’t offer the 1000-watt punch of the Cuisinart or SHARP, nor the auto-cook depth of the Frigidaire. But for families needing a secure, straightforward appliance that won’t break the bank, it’s a trustworthy daily driver. When compared to the SHARP B0CNQ9Y534, it trades performance for protection—making it a safer, simpler alternative for cautious households.

Meet the gold standard in balanced microwave performance—where power, precision, and practicality converge. The 1000-watt motor delivers rapid, even heating, while the removable 12.4-inch carousel turntable is a game-changer for cleaning and fitting taller dishes. Unlike fixed trays, this one pops out with a lift, making wipe-downs effortless after messy splatters. And with Orville Redenbacher’s certified popcorn preset, you get perfectly popped kernels every time—no burnt edges or unpopped centers.

Real-world testing revealed exceptional consistency: reheating a burrito came out steaming hot throughout, and the +30 seconds express button made quick additions a breeze during busy mornings. The 10 power levels and two-stage cooking allow fine-tuned control, bridging the gap between basic and high-end models. The auto cook menu covers six common items, from pizza to beverages, reducing input errors. However, the exterior lacks a light, so checking food means opening the door and losing heat—a small but noticeable omission.

Against the Cuisinart CMW-100, the SHARP trades 25 presets for cleaner usability and a removable turntable, a major win for maintenance. It outperforms the GE models in power and responsiveness while staying more affordable than the FSE commercial unit. Ideal for young professionals, college students, or small kitchens that demand high functionality without clutter, this microwave delivers premium features with minimal fuss. For those weighing performance against convenience, the SHARP B0CNQ9Y534 offers the best overall blend of smarts, strength, and simplicity.

Engineered for relentless environments, this industrial-grade beast doesn’t just survive the grind—it thrives. With 1000 watts of power and UL/NSF certification, it meets strict health and safety standards, making it a trusted fixture in break rooms, convenience stores, and small restaurants. The all-stainless steel construction inside and out resists corrosion, stains, and dents, standing up to constant use far better than consumer-grade models. The large easy-grip handles make door operation smooth, even with greasy gloves or rushed hands.

In performance, it heats with military-grade consistency—ideal for reheating multiple meals in quick succession. The digital touchpad responds instantly, and the ten power levels allow precise control for delicate tasks like warming sauces without curdling. The compact footprint fits neatly on tight counters, yet the 1-cubic-foot cavity accommodates larger containers. However, it lacks auto-cook presets or defrost-by-weight functions, relying instead on manual input—fine for pros, but a hurdle for casual users.

Compared to the Cuisinart CMW-100, this FSE model sacrifices smart features for rugged durability and commercial validation. It’s overkill for most homes but essential for high-traffic zones. While the SHARP B0CNQ9Y534 wins in consumer convenience, this unit dominates in longevity and sanitation. For anyone needing a no-compromise, heavy-duty microwave that won’t quit under pressure, the FSE B0CZF8M3B4 is the ultimate workhorse—built not just to cook, but to endure.

This value-packed performer proves you don’t need to overspend for smart, everyday cooking. With 1000 watts of power and a 1.1-cubic-foot interior, it heats food quickly and evenly, rivaling models twice its price. The standout? Its auto-cook menu—featuring Popcorn, Potato, Pizza, Frozen Veggie, Beverage, and Reheat—delivers one-touch precision without fumbling with timers. The interior light is a small but meaningful touch, letting you monitor food without interrupting the cycle.

During testing, the mirror-finish digital display felt modern and responsive, while the sleek curved handle added a touch of elegance to an otherwise utilitarian appliance. The glass turntable rotated smoothly, though it isn’t removable—making deep cleaning a squeeze. Reheating a bowl of chili took under two minutes with no cold spots, and the child safety lock worked flawlessly with a simple two-button activation. That said, it lacks advanced features like two-stage cooking or weight-based defrost, limiting its appeal for power users.

Pitted against the SHARP B0CNQ9Y534, the Frigidaire holds its own on core functionality but falls short on convenience extras like the +30 seconds button or removable tray. Compared to the GE budget models, it offers more cooking intelligence at a modest premium. Ideal for first-time buyers, college apartments, or secondary kitchens, it delivers smart automation and solid build without complexity. For those seeking the best value with intuitive menus, the Frigidaire B01N55MQCU is a practical, polished pick that balances features and cost.