The best 11 inch height microwave offers compact efficiency and powerful cooking for tight spaces. Ideal for apartments, dorms, or small kitchens, these compact appliances provide essential functionality without sacrificing counter real estate. When selecting one, consider crucial features like capacity, wattage, and pre-programmed settings, as a poor choice might result in inadequate performance or wasted space.
Different models balance power, size, and convenience in unique ways, so understanding these differences ensures you get a model that fits your culinary needs and spatial constraints perfectly. We’ve curated a list of top contenders to help you find the perfect fit for your home.
For a microwave with an 11-inch height, consider models offering a good balance of capacity and cooking power, such as the GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS with 1.1 cu. ft. and 800 watts, or the BLACK+DECKER EM0P04P11 at 1.1 cu.
ft. and 1000 watts, both providing ample space and efficiency for everyday use.
Best 11 Inch Height Microwaves: At a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave, 800W, Sensor Best for: Sensor cooking | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Best for: Quiet operation | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection Best for: Convection baking | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | LG Countertop Microwave, 0.9 cu. ft., Stainless Steel, 18.75x14x10.69 Inch, Best for: Basic countertop | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Best for: Safety features | Check Price |
How We Picked
We meticulously evaluated microwaves to identify the best 11 inch height microwave by focusing on buyer priorities. Build quality and durability were paramount, leading us to favor robust construction and reliable components. Real-world performance, assessed through wattage and cooking features like sensor cook and convection, was crucial for consistent results.
Safety, particularly child lock features indicated in products like the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) and several GE models, played a significant role. Standout features such as air frying in the GE 4-in-1 model offered added value.
We prioritized models offering balanced capacity and practical functionality.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Don’t Let Height Be a Limiting Factor
When searching for an 11-inch height microwave, remember that interior capacity often doesn’t directly correlate with exterior dimensions. A wider microwave might still fit your 11-inch height requirement. For instance, the LG Countertop Microwave offers a 0.9 cu.
ft. interior within a manageable exterior, while the GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS provides a slightly larger 1.1 cu.
ft. capacity, both fitting within typical countertop constraints for this height. Always double-check the overall width and depth to ensure a perfect fit for your specific space.
Smart Inverter: The Key to Even Cooking
For microwaves around the 11-inch height mark, look for Smart Inverter technology. This feature, highlighted in the LG Countertop Microwave, is crucial for delivering consistent power distribution. Unlike older microwaves that cycle full power on and off, Smart Inverter provides a smoother, more controlled heat.
This means your food cooks more evenly, preventing hot spots and undercooked centers, especially important for smaller appliances where precision matters for optimal results.
1. GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS 1.1 Cu Ft Countertop Microwave, 800W, Sensor
Best for: Smart home integration for remote control.
Seamlessly manage your GE Profile microwave’s power and timers from your smartphone, thanks to its WiFi Connect feature. This 1.1 cu. ft. model with 800 watts of power delivers fast, even results.
This 1.1 cubic foot microwave offers a balanced capacity suitable for most family needs. It operates at 800 watts, ensuring efficient cooking. The unit includes a child safety lock and 10 power levels for precise control over heating.
Pros
- WiFi Connect for smartphone control
- 800W cooking power for speed
- 1.1 cu. ft. capacity for everyday use
- 10 power levels for versatility
Cons
- Scan to Cook technology may not support all brands.
For tech-savvy individuals looking to manage cooking remotely, this GE Profile microwave offers convenient smartphone integration. Its 1.1 cu. ft. size is ideal for apartments and small households.
2. TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute
Best for: Compact design with mute function.
At 10.7 inches in height, the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) fits easily on most countertops, offering a 0.9 cu. ft. interior capacity and a unique mute button function. This 900-watt microwave is ideal for those who prefer a quieter kitchen.
This compact microwave measures 18.7×14.7×10.7 inches, providing a 0.9 cu. ft. internal space (12.1 x 10.9 x 7.6 inches). It features 900 watts of microwave output power and 11 power levels, along with 6 preset menus for common foods.
Pros
- Mute button for quiet operation
- 900W cooking power
- 11 power levels for precise control
- 6 auto menus for convenience
Cons
- Internal dimensions are relatively small at 7.6 inches high.
Ideal for dorm rooms or small apartments where quiet operation is a priority, this TOSHIBA microwave offers essential features without the noise. Its 0.9 cu. ft. capacity accommodates standard dinner plates.
3. GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.0 Cu Ft, 1050W Convection
Best for: Multi-function with air fry and convection.
Achieve crispier food and golden-brown results with this GE 4-in-1 microwave, featuring built-in air fryer and convection capabilities. The 1.0 cu. ft. capacity and 1500 watts peak power allow for versatile cooking methods.
This 1.0 cu. ft. GE microwave offers 1050 watts of cooking power, which is boosted by its convection and broil functions. It includes a specialized rack for circulating air, ensuring even heat distribution for healthier air-fried items or perfectly seared foods.
Pros
- Includes Air Fry function for healthier options
- Convection cooking for even browning
- Broil function for searing
- 1.0 cu. ft. capacity
Cons
- 1050 Watts might be less powerful than some high-end models for pure microwave function.
For those seeking a versatile cooking appliance that goes beyond traditional microwaving, this GE 4-in-1 model is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for busy individuals who want to air fry, convection bake, and broil alongside microwaving.
4. LG Countertop Microwave, 0.9 cu. ft., Stainless Steel, 18.75x14x10.69 Inch,
Best for: Smart Inverter for precise cooking.
Experience precise cooking power control and even heating throughout your food with LG’s Smart Inverter technology in this 1000-watt microwave. This 0.9 cu. ft. stainless steel model offers 10 power levels for versatile food preparation.
This 0.9 cu. ft. LG countertop microwave delivers 1000 watts of cooking power across 10 adjustable levels, ensuring optimal results for various recipes. The Smart Inverter technology guarantees consistent heat distribution without hot spots.
Pros
- Smart Inverter for even cooking
- 1000W powerful performance
- 10 adjustable power levels
- 0.9 cu. ft. capacity
Cons
- The 0.9 cu. ft. capacity might be smaller than desired for larger dishes.
Individuals looking for consistent and even cooking performance will appreciate the LG NeoChef’s Smart Inverter technology. Its 0.9 cu. ft. capacity is well-suited for apartments or individuals who prioritize even heating.
5. BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety
Best for: Simple operation with shortcut buttons.
Simplify meal preparation with the BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven, featuring 900 watts of power and 10 presets for common foods like popcorn and pizza. The large LED display and easy-to-read control panel enhance user-friendliness.
This 900-watt microwave offers 10 power settings to accommodate various cooking needs, alongside a clock and timer. Its 10.6-inch glass turntable ensures even cooking, and the unit includes 6 pre-programmed cooking menus.
Pros
- 900W cooking power
- 10 power settings for control
- 6 pre-programmed menus
- 10.6-inch glass turntable
Cons
- Push-button door release might be less durable than a handle.
For straightforward meal reheating and cooking, this BLACK+DECKER microwave is a practical choice for any kitchen. Its user-friendly interface and presets make it ideal for busy individuals or families who want quick access to common cooking options.
6. Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Countertop Microwave Oven, Silver
Best for: Whisper-quiet soft close door.
Experience a quieter kitchen with the Breville BMO650SIL Compact Wave Soft Close Microwave, featuring an 80% quieter soft-close door. This 25L (approx. 0.88 cu. ft.) countertop model offers convenient shortcuts for reheating, defrosting, and cooking.
Engineered for kitchens with limited space, this compact Breville microwave boasts a 25-liter capacity. It includes one-touch auto buttons for popular settings like Reheat, Defrost, Popcorn, and Beverage, simplifying daily meal prep for individuals or couples.
Pros
- Whisper-quiet soft close door
- 25L (approx. 0.88 cu. ft.) compact footprint
- Easy shortcut buttons
- Designed for reheating, defrosting, and cooking
Cons
- Capacity is smaller than many standard microwaves.
Perfect for studio apartments or households where minimizing noise is a priority, this Breville microwave combines quiet operation with convenient cooking features. Its compact size makes it suitable for small countertops.
7. BLACK+DECKER EM0P04P11 Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.1 Cu Ft, 1000W with
Best for: Large capacity in a compact frame.
The BLACK+DECKER EM0P04P11 offers a generous 1.1 cu. ft. capacity within a surprisingly compact frame, measuring just 11.8 inches in height. With 1000 watts of power and 6 preset cooking menus, it simplifies everyday meal preparation.
This 1.1 cu. ft. microwave operates at 1000 watts and features 10 power levels for versatile cooking. It includes one-touch programs for popcorn, potato, pizza, and more, along with an express cooking feature for instant starts.
Pros
- Large 1.1 cu. ft. capacity
- 1000W cooking power
- 6 preset cooking menus
- Compact external dimensions for its capacity
Cons
- External dimensions of 20.6L x 16.5W x 11.8H inches might still be large for very tight spaces.
For households needing ample space for standard dinner plates but constrained by counter depth, this BLACK+DECKER 1.1 cu. ft. microwave is a great fit. Its 1000W power and presets make it ideal for everyday reheating and cooking needs.
8. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1,150-watt Capacity, 1.6 Cubic Ft., 8
Best for: High wattage for rapid cooking.
Boasting 1150 watts of power, this GE countertop microwave offers exceptionally rapid cooking and heating performance within its 1.6 cu. ft. capacity. Sensor cooking controls automatically adjust time and power for optimal results.
This GE microwave provides a substantial 1.6 cu. ft. internal capacity, ideal for larger dishes and family-sized portions. It operates at a powerful 1150 watts with 10 power levels and features Weight and Time Defrost for efficient food thawing.
Pros
- 1150W high cooking power
- Large 1.6 cu. ft. capacity
- Sensor cooking for precision
- Weight and Time Defrost
Cons
- Higher wattage means higher energy consumption.
For those who prioritize speed and capacity, this 1150-watt GE microwave is an excellent choice for busy households. Its large 1.6 cu. ft. interior handles family meals, and sensor cooking ensures perfect results.
9. GE Countertop Microwave Oven,1, 200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft., 8
Best for: High wattage and extra-large capacity.
With an impressive 1200 watts of power and a spacious 2.0 cu. ft. capacity, this GE countertop microwave is built for speed and volume. Sensor cooking controls automatically adjust time and power to deliver delicious results every time.
This extra-large 2.0 cu. ft. microwave operates at a powerful 1200 watts across 10 distinct power levels, ensuring efficient and consistent cooking. It features Weight and Time Defrost, along with 8 preset cooking programs for convenience.
Pros
- 1200W cooking power for fast results
- Extra-large 2.0 cu. ft. capacity
- Sensor cooking for precision
- 10 power levels
Cons
- Takes up significant counter space due to its large capacity.
Ideal for large families or anyone who frequently cooks or heats larger quantities, this 1200-watt GE microwave provides ample space and power. Its 2.0 cu. ft. capacity simplifies preparing meals for many.
10. GE Countertop Microwave Oven, 1.4 Cubic Ft., 1,100-watt Capacity, 7
Best for: Generous capacity with express cooking.
The GE Countertop Microwave Oven delivers 1100 watts of cooking power and a substantial 1.4 cu. ft. capacity, perfect for family-sized portions. Its Express Cook feature allows for instant-on cooking with shortcut keys.
Operating at 1100 watts with 10 power levels, this 1.4 cu. ft. microwave ensures efficient heating and cooking for various foods. The glass turntable rotates for optimal results, and it includes multiple cooking programs like Beverage and Popcorn.
Pros
- 1100W cooking power
- Large 1.4 cu. ft. capacity
- Express Cook instant-on feature
- Sensor cooking controls
Cons
- The 7-minute timer might be limiting for long cooking tasks.
For households needing a balance of power and ample space, this 1100-watt GE microwave with a 1.4 cu. ft. capacity is a practical choice. Its express cooking options make it ideal for quick meal preparation.
Wattage Misleads Beyond 1000W
The wattage listed on a microwave’s box is less an indicator of superior performance than a metric of potential power draw from your outlet. For anyone seeking the best 11 inch height microwave, focusing solely on advertised wattage above 1000W quickly becomes a false economy, leading to marginal gains at best and significant overkill at worst. The reality is that power delivery is only one part of heating efficiency; the precision of that power, the internal design, and even the unit’s capacity play far more crucial roles in how evenly and effectively your food is cooked.
Consider the GE Profile PCHK11S1WSS at 800W versus the BLACK+DECKER EM0P04P11 at 1000W. While the latter has a higher wattage, the GE Profile’s sensor cooking technology anticipates and adjusts, promising even results with the precision expected from GE Profile. This emphasizes a design philosophy that prioritizes smart cooking over raw output. Similarly, the LG Countertop Microwave with its 1000W output leverages Smart Inverter technology for precise cooking power control and even heating, directly addressing the erratic nature of higher, unmanaged wattage.
The sheer muscle of options like the GE Countertop Microwave Oven (1,200-watt Capacity, 2.0 Cubic Ft.) or the GE 4-in-1 Countertop Microwave Oven (1,050W Convection) often comes with a larger footprint and a complexity that many users neither need nor will fully utilize, especially if their primary use involves simple reheating or defrosting.
The danger in chasing higher wattages lies in the assumption that more power inherently means faster, better cooking. What often occurs is food that is intensely heated on the edges while remaining cool in the center, or textures that are compromised by uneven cooking. Technologies like LG’s Smart Inverter or the sensor-based approaches found in GE Profile units are designed to mitigate these issues by delivering power in a controlled, consistent manner.
This granular control is far more impactful for everyday use than a few extra hundred watts that might strain your electrical system or simply boil water faster without improving the quality of your meal.
The nuanced differences between these models reveal that true value for the best 11 inch height microwave isn’t found in the highest wattage number. Instead, it resides in intelligent power management. For the user who values precision and consistently good results for common tasks, a model like the TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) with its specific auto menus and mute function offers a more practical and user-friendly experience, proving that sophisticated, lower-wattage systems can outperform brute-force appliances.
How to Find the Best 11 Inch Height Microwave
Internal capacity dimensions
When seeking the best 11-inch height microwave, prioritize internal capacity that fits your needs without overwhelming your counter space. Look for microwaves offering at least 1 cubic foot of interior volume, ensuring ample room for standard dinner plates and taller items, often found in models measuring around 12-13 inches wide and 14-16 inches deep. While the 11-inch height is your primary constraint, confirm the interior height clearance won’t impede cooking larger dishes.
Opt for models that maximize cubic feet within the 11-inch external height, making them ideal for those needing substantial internal space in a compact footprint. Choose models with internal dimensions around 13.5-14.5 inches wide, 14-16 inches deep, and 9-10 inches high for optimal meal preparation.
Cooking power features
Invest in a microwave offering at least 1000 watts of cooking power for efficient heating and even defrosting. Higher wattage translates to faster cooking times, a critical factor for busy households. For convenience, select a model with common preset cooking programs like popcorn or beverage, ensuring consistent results with a single touch.
A turntable diameter of 12 inches or larger is essential for uniform heating, as it ensures food rotates completely. Prioritize microwaves with weight or time-based defrosting options that are consistently effective in thawing frozen foods without cooking them.
Aim for a 1200-watt microwave with a 13-inch or larger turntable and multiple defrost settings for superior versatility.
Design usability
Consider a microwave with an intuitive digital control panel featuring clear, illuminated buttons for ease of use, especially in low light. A door handle that opens with a simple push-button or a smooth, ergonomic grip is preferable to a recessed pull that can be awkward. Ensure the interior light is bright and illuminates the entire cooking cavity for clear visibility, allowing you to monitor your food’s progress.
During operation, a quiet microwave below 60 decibels is ideal for maintaining a peaceful kitchen environment. Choose a model with a digital interface, a push-button door release, and a bright interior light for a user-friendly experience.
For optimal usability, select a model with a digital control panel and a push-button door release.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you need versatile cooking options beyond simple reheating, choose a model with air fryer or convection capabilities for crispier results.
- If you have young children in the house, select a microwave with a two-step child lock feature for added safety.
- If you prioritize precise temperature control and even heating, look for models featuring inverter technology.
- If you’re short on counter space but still want decent capacity and power, consider a compact model that optimizes both.
Quick Best 11 Inch Height Microwave Buying Checklist
- Measure Your Space: Confirm the exact height, width, and depth available for your 11-inch height microwave, including clearance for door opening.
- Assess Wattage Needs: Higher wattage generally means faster cooking, so choose based on your typical usage for reheating or full meals.
- Consider Capacity: Determine the internal cubic feet required for your needs, from single servings to family-sized dishes.
- Evaluate Presets: Look for convenient one-touch cooking options like popcorn, bake, or reheat if these are common for you.
- Check Turntable Size: Ensure the turntable is large enough to accommodate your common dishes, typically 10-12 inches.
- Read User Reviews: Pay attention to feedback on reliability, ease of use, and noise levels for a well-rounded perspective.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Primary Benefits Of An 11-Inch Height Microwave?
An 11-inch height microwave offers enhanced counter space utilization, fitting neatly under cabinets or in tighter kitchen layouts. This specific height is ideal for optimizing space while still providing adequate interior room for most common reheating and cooking tasks.
How Does Internal Capacity Relate To The 11-Inch Height?
While height is fixed at 11 inches, the internal capacity will vary based on the microwave’s width and depth. Look for models that maximize this footprint with efficient internal design to ensure enough room for your favorite dishes.
Are There Specific Power Levels To Look For In An 11-Inch Height Microwave?
Most 11-inch height microwaves operate within a standard range of 700-1200 watts, which is sufficient for most reheating and cooking needs. Higher wattage implies faster cooking times, so select one that aligns with your typical usage.
What Features Are Most Useful For An 11-Inch Height Microwave?
Key features include various preset cooking functions, simple-to-use control panels, and effective defrost settings. An interior light and a turntable that can accommodate common plate sizes also significantly enhance usability.
Can An 11-Inch Height Microwave Accommodate Larger Dishes?
The ability to accommodate larger dishes depends more on the microwave’s width and depth than its height. While the 11-inch height is a constraint, many models cleverly maximize internal space for common dinner plate sizes.
Final Words
Selecting the best 11 inch height microwave ensures you maximize kitchen efficiency without compromising on functionality. These compact yet powerful appliances offer versatile cooking options for everyday needs, fitting seamlessly into any space. Upgrade your kitchen convenience by choosing a model that perfectly balances form and function for your lifestyle.