Microwave Sizes and Wattage, Explained
Microwave size is the cavity volume in cubic feet and wattage is the cooking power; most listings fall between 1.0 and 1.9 cubic feet and 800 to 1,199 watts.
By Liam McCabeContributing writer.
On this page
The short answer
Two numbers describe a microwave:
- Capacity, in cubic feet (cu ft), is the inside volume. It decides what dishes fit.
- Wattage is the cooking power. More watts heat the same food faster.
The mounting type comes first, though. A countertop model sits anywhere with an outlet, an over-the-range model replaces a range hood, and built-in and drawer models fit into cabinets. Each one limits the outside size you can buy.
What size microwave do I need
| Capacity | Microwaves on Wiki Shopping |
|---|---|
| Under 1.0 cu ft | 90 |
| 1.0 to 1.4 cu ft | 104 |
| 1.5 to 1.9 cu ft | 125 |
| 2.0 cu ft or more | 18 |
A small cavity saves counter space in a dorm room or office; a large one takes bigger plates and dishes.
GE Appliances groups its over-the-range models the same way: medium models with 1.0 to 1.5 cubic feet and larger ones at 1.6 cubic feet or more. GE also notes that most over-the-range models need about 30 inches of vertical clearance between the cooktop and the cabinet above, so measure that space before choosing a size.
For a countertop model, measure the counter depth and the space under any wall cabinet, and leave room for the door to swing open. Then check that your largest dinner plate or baking dish fits the turntable or cavity listed in the specs.
How many watts should a microwave be
Wattage changes how long food takes, not what it can cook. Many frozen meal packages state the oven power their times are written for. If your microwave has fewer watts than the package assumes, add time in short steps and check that the food is hot all the way through. If it has more watts, start with the shorter time.
On Wiki Shopping, the 1000 to 1199 W range is the most common, followed by 800 to 999 W.
1000 watt vs 1200 watt microwave
At the same power level, a 1200 W oven delivers 20 percent more power than a 1000 W oven, so the same bowl of soup heats in less time. The gap matters most when you heat large portions or cook from frozen.
Higher-wattage models are less common: 21 microwaves on Wiki Shopping are rated 1200 W or more, against 91 at 1000 to 1199 W and 62 at 800 to 999 W.
Microwaves on Wiki Shopping by type
Of the 370 microwave ovens listed on October 26, 2026, 120 are countertop, 115 are over-the-range, 43 are drawers and 42 are built-in. 63 offer convection cooking.
How we count
Type, capacity, wattage and features are read from each microwave's store listing. Microwaves that do not state them are left out of those counts. The counts change as listings are added or removed.
Shop by spec
Microwave Ovens
Over the range, 1.5 to 1.9 cu ft, 30 inch, White
- Spacious 1.6 cu.ft Capacity – Accommodates a wide range of dishes, from large dinner plates to multiple small items at once, making it practical for family meals and everyday use. The interior is designed to provide efficient heating while maintaining even cooking results for consistent performance.
- Convenient Speed Cooking Options – Features multiple auto menu programs including popcorn, beverages, vegetables, potatoes, and defrost settings. One-touch functions simplify meal preparation, while speed cooking technology ensures food heats quickly and efficiently without sacrificing quality or taste.
- Two-Speed Ventilation System – Designed with a 105/300 CFM blower to effectively clear smoke, steam, and cooking odors while maintaining a comfortable kitchen environment. Flexible air discharge options include vertical, horizontal, or recirculating installation, allowing homeowners to adapt the system to existing ductwork or space needs with ease.
- Smudge-Resistant Exterior and Handle – Finished in a sleek white coating that resists fingerprints, stains, and everyday wear, ensuring a consistently polished appearance. The durable antique brass plastic handle stays cool to the touch for safe daily use, offering a sturdy grip while enhancing the overall design with a stylish yet functional detail.
- Energy-Efficient LED Lighting – Bright interior and exterior lighting enhances visibility for both cooking and monitoring food progress. The washable filter ensures proper airflow and easy maintenance, while cooling fan protection keeps internal components at the right temperature for long-lasting performance.
Countertop, Under 1.0 cu ft, Under 800 W, Stainless steel
- EXTRA-QUICK COOKING: Choose from three popular presets for microwave ovens, including popcorn, beverages, and leftovers. Or just press the number keys to quickly set the cook time for that number of minutes.
- LOW TO HIGH POWER: This 700W digital microwave packs big power into a compact appliance! Choose from 10 power levels, from a low setting to melt butter to maximum power for rapid cooking in moments.
- DIGITAL CONTROLS: It’s easy to set up everything from microwave popcorn to warming up leftovers in this mini microwave. Customize your time and power level or add a bit of extra time with the +30 seconds button.
- SAFETY FIRST: The built-in child safety lock on the handle ensures the door doesn’t open accidentally. Just pull upwards on the top edge of the handle to open the microwave.
- MUTE OPTION: Silence this counter top microwave with the Sound Button, turning off any annoying beeps if you’re trying to stay quiet or not wake up your kids.
- RESOURCES: cETL approved with advanced safety technology for long-lasting durability and a 1-year assurance provided by Chefman. 700W/120V - RJ55-SS-7-V2
Countertop, Under 1.0 cu ft, Under 800 W, White
- Compact Size for Small Spaces: 17.31" W x 12.74" D x 10.1" H fits tight spaces in dorms, apartments & offices while providing 0.7 cubic feet capacity and 700W power for excellent cooking performance. Great for quick meals and simple daily cooking
- Trusted GE Performance: With its no-fuss controls, compact footprint, and flexible placement options, this General Electric microwave stands out among compact microwave ovens for shoppers who want trusted GE quality in a smaller size
- Simple One-Touch Controls: One-touch express cooking settings and 4 convenience cook settings provide easy operation for busy lifestyles, while the digital display and electronic keypad provide precise control of cook time and power settings
- Defrost Function: Manual and auto defrost modes adjust time and power levels to thaw frozen foods evenly while helping prevent overcooked edges
- Clearance and Airflow Requirements: Our GE microwave is designed for countertop use. Allow 3 inches of clearance on each side and above, 1 inch at the rear, and keep the bottom fully unobstructed for proper airflow and best performance
- Child Lock for Added Peace of Mind: This countertop microwave with child lock helps add confidence for families and shared spaces. Child lock can be disabled easily when not needed
Countertop, 1.0 to 1.4 cu ft, 800 to 999 W, Stainless steel
- Balanced capacity. Powerful performance: With a versatile 1.0 cu. ft. capacity and 1,050 Watts of cooking power, this microwave delivers fast, even results for family favorites and everyday meals. Measures: 15.62" D x 20.83" W x 12" H
- Trusted GE Performance: From quick breakfasts to late-night snacks, this GE countertop microwave delivers the reliable performance, user-friendly controls, and everyday convenience that have made GE a trusted name in kitchens for generations
- Simple One-Touch Controls: One-touch express cooking settings and 6 convenience cook settings provide easy operation for busy lifestyles, while the digital display and electronic keypad provide precise control of cook time and power settings
- Defrost Function: Manual and auto defrost modes adjust time and power levels to thaw frozen foods evenly while helping prevent overcooked edges
- Clearance and Airflow Requirements: Our GE microwave is designed for countertop use. Allow 3 inches of clearance on each side and above, 1 inch at the rear, and keep the bottom fully unobstructed for proper airflow and best performance
- Child Lock for Added Peace of Mind: This countertop microwave with child lock helps add confidence for families and shared spaces. Child lock can be disabled easily when not needed