Buying Guide for the Best 1200 Watt Microwaves
Choosing the right microwave can make a big difference in your kitchen experience. A 1200-watt microwave is a powerful appliance that can cook food quickly and evenly. When selecting a microwave, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs and preferences. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and find the best fit for your cooking habits and kitchen space.WattageWattage indicates the power of the microwave. A 1200-watt microwave is considered high-powered, which means it can cook food faster and more evenly compared to lower wattage models. This is important if you frequently cook or reheat large meals or if you want to reduce cooking time. If you mostly use the microwave for simple tasks like reheating leftovers or making popcorn, a lower wattage might suffice. However, for more demanding cooking tasks, a 1200-watt microwave is a great choice.
CapacityCapacity refers to the internal size of the microwave, usually measured in cubic feet. This determines how much food you can cook at once. Microwaves typically range from 0.5 to 2.2 cubic feet. If you have a large family or often cook large dishes, a microwave with a capacity of 1.5 cubic feet or more would be ideal. For smaller households or limited counter space, a compact microwave with a capacity of around 1 cubic foot might be more suitable.
Turntable SizeThe turntable size is the diameter of the rotating plate inside the microwave. This affects the size of the dishes you can use. Larger turntables (12 inches or more) can accommodate bigger plates and casserole dishes, which is useful for cooking family-sized meals. Smaller turntables (10 inches or less) are better for compact spaces and smaller dishes. Consider the size of the dishes you typically use to determine the right turntable size for you.
Preset Cooking ProgramsPreset cooking programs are pre-configured settings for common foods like popcorn, pizza, and vegetables. These programs simplify the cooking process by automatically setting the time and power level. If you prefer convenience and often cook a variety of foods, look for a microwave with multiple preset programs. If you usually cook specific items and don't mind manually setting the time and power, fewer presets might be sufficient.
Inverter TechnologyInverter technology allows the microwave to deliver consistent power levels, which helps cook food more evenly and prevents overcooking. This is particularly useful for delicate foods like fish or for defrosting. If you value precise cooking and often prepare a variety of dishes, a microwave with inverter technology is a good choice. If you mainly use the microwave for basic tasks, this feature might not be as crucial.
Sensor CookingSensor cooking uses humidity and temperature sensors to automatically adjust cooking time and power levels. This ensures that food is cooked perfectly without needing to guess the settings. If you want a hassle-free cooking experience and often prepare different types of food, a microwave with sensor cooking is beneficial. If you are comfortable with manually setting the microwave, this feature may be less important.
Control PanelThe control panel is the interface you use to operate the microwave. It can be touchpad, dial, or button-based. Touchpad controls offer a modern look and are easy to clean, while dials and buttons can be more intuitive for some users. Consider your preference for ease of use and maintenance when choosing the control panel type. If you prefer a sleek design, a touchpad might be ideal. If you want simplicity, dials or buttons could be better.
Size and DesignThe size and design of the microwave should fit your kitchen space and aesthetic preferences. Measure the available space to ensure the microwave will fit comfortably. Consider the overall design, including color and finish, to match your kitchen decor. If you have limited counter space, a compact or over-the-range microwave might be more suitable. For a cohesive look, choose a design that complements your other appliances.
