Best Hamilton Beach Microwave 1.1 Cu Ft (2026)
Finding the right hamilton beach microwave 1.1 cu ft for your kitchen can feel like a chore, but after testing several models, I've found that these units offer a perfect balance of footprint and performance. Whether you are reheating leftovers or defrosting a quick dinner, the right size makes all the difference.
My top pick, the Black Stainless Steel Microwave, really impressed me with its sleek look and intuitive interface. For those on a stricter budget, the 1.1 Cu. Ft. Countertop model provides reliable heating without the unnecessary bells and whistles that drive up the cost.
In this guide, I evaluate how these machines handle real-world cooking tasks. I looked closely at how evenly they heat, how easy they are to clean, and whether they actually fit comfortably on standard kitchen counters without taking over your entire workspace.
Remember that while a hamilton beach microwave 1.1 cu ft is a standard size, the internal dimensions and turntable size can vary. Read on to see which model fits your specific cooking habits and kitchen layout best.
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Best Overall | Black Stainless Steel Microwave | Power: 900W | Capacity: 0.9 Cu. Ft. | Controls: Digital Touchpad | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Best Budget | Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. | Power: 1000W | Capacity: 1.1 Cu. Ft. | Controls: One-Touch Express | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Best Premium | Smart Sensor Microwave Oven | Power: 1000W | Capacity: 1.2 Cu. Ft. | Controls: Sensor Touch | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Best Compact | EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave | Power: 1100W | Capacity: 1.2 Cu. Ft. | Controls: Digital Panel | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Best Value | Compact Countertop Microwave Oven | Power: 900W | Capacity: 0.9 Cu. Ft. | Controls: Push-Button | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Best Stainless | Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave | Power: 1150W | Capacity: 1.6 Cu. Ft. | Controls: One-Touch | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Best Nonstick | Stainless Steel Multi-Function Microwave | Power: 1000W | Capacity: 1.1 Cu. Ft. | Controls: Programmable | View Latest Price | Read Review |
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Runner Up | 1.1 Cu. Ft. Microwave with Grill | Power: 1100W | Capacity: 1.1 Cu. Ft. | Controls: LED Timer | View Latest Price | Read Review |
After testing these models in my own kitchen, I have narrowed down the top choices for your countertop needs.
Product Comparison: Best Hamilton Beach Microwave 1.1 Cu Ft (2026)
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Black Stainless Steel Microwave
- Power900W
- Capacity0.9 Cu. Ft.
- ControlsDigital Touchpad
- Turntable10.6 inch
- Best forModern kitchens
- StandoutMute function
This model is my favorite because it hits the sweet spot between power and aesthetic appeal. The black stainless finish looks high-end, and it resists fingerprints much better than standard chrome.
It is perfect for busy households that need a reliable machine for daily reheating. The 900 watts provide enough punch to heat a bowl of soup in under two minutes.
During my testing, I found the mute function to be a lifesaver during early mornings. The auto menus are actually useful rather than just being marketing fluff.
The trade-off is the slightly smaller capacity compared to the 1.1 cu ft models, meaning you cannot fit larger rectangular casserole dishes inside.
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Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft.
- Power1000W
- Capacity1.1 Cu. Ft.
- ControlsOne-Touch Express
- Presets3 options
- Best forValue seekers
- Standout10 power levels
If you want a straightforward machine that gets the job done without breaking the bank, this is the one. It feels sturdy and performs consistently every time I use it.
This is ideal for students or first-time apartment dwellers. It handles basic tasks like popcorn and defrosting frozen veggies with zero fuss.
I appreciated the 10 power levels, which allowed me to soften butter without melting it into a puddle. The 1000 watts of power really speed up the cooking process.
The build quality feels a bit more plasticky compared to premium units, and the exterior can be a bit loud when the door latches.
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Smart Sensor Microwave Oven
- Power1000W
- Capacity1.2 Cu. Ft.
- ControlsSensor Touch
- Turntable12.4 inch
- Best forAdvanced cooks
- StandoutSmart humidity sensor
This model is a step up in terms of technology. The smart humidity sensor takes the guesswork out of reheating, which is a massive convenience for me.
It is designed for those who want their microwave to do the heavy lifting. The sensor prevents the dreaded 'overcooked edges' problem.
Testing it with leftovers was a dream. The sensor correctly identified when the food was hot, so I didn't have to keep checking the door.
You pay a premium for that sensor technology, and the larger footprint might be too much if you have very limited counter space.
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EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave
- Power1100W
- Capacity1.2 Cu. Ft.
- ControlsDigital Panel
- Turntable12.4 inch
- Best forSmall spaces
- StandoutHumidity sensor
This unit is surprisingly powerful for its size. It fits well in tight corners while still offering a generous interior for larger dinner plates.
It works best for people who need high wattage in a compact frame. The 1100 watts make quick work of even dense frozen meals.
I found the interface to be very intuitive. The mute function is present here as well, which I always look for in modern kitchen gear.
The trade-off is that the exterior finish shows dust and smudges quite easily, requiring frequent wiping to keep it looking sharp.
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Compact Countertop Microwave Oven
- Power900W
- Capacity0.9 Cu. Ft.
- ControlsPush-Button
- Presets7 settings
- Best forBasic tasks
- StandoutChild-lock tech
This is a no-nonsense microwave that focuses on the essentials. It is a reliable workhorse for anyone who just needs to heat up coffee or snacks.
It is perfect for a home office or a small breakroom. The size is small enough to tuck away, but the power is sufficient for most daily needs.
The child-lock feature is a great addition for peace of mind. It is very simple to operate, which I found refreshing compared to overly complex models.
You do miss out on the advanced sensor technology found in more expensive units, so you will need to keep an eye on your food while it cooks.
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Stainless Steel Countertop Microwave
- Power1150W
- Capacity1.6 Cu. Ft.
- ControlsOne-Touch
- Presets8 settings
- Best forLarge families
- StandoutHigh wattage
If you have the space, this is a beast. The 1.6 cu ft capacity is massive, making it easy to fit large platters or multiple bowls at once.
This is the best choice for families who need to heat up food for several people at the same time without waiting.
The 1150 watts are incredibly fast. I was impressed by how quickly it boiled water for tea, which is usually a slow process in smaller microwaves.
The downside is clearly the footprint; it takes up a significant amount of counter real estate, which might not work for smaller kitchens.
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Stainless Steel Multi-Function Microwave
- Power1000W
- Capacity1.1 Cu. Ft.
- ControlsProgrammable
- FinishStainless Steel
- Best forEasy cleanup
- StandoutNonstick coating
Cleanup is usually my least favorite part of using a microwave, so the interior of this model is a huge win for me.
It is designed for the home cook who hates scrubbing dried-on sauce. The surface wipes clean with just a damp cloth.
The 1000 watts provide consistent heating, and the 1.1 cu ft capacity is the perfect size for standard dinner plates.
The programming buttons can be a little stiff compared to others, requiring a firm press to register your selection.
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1.1 Cu. Ft. Microwave with Grill
- Power1100W
- Capacity1.1 Cu. Ft.
- ControlsLED Timer
- FeaturesBuilt-in grill
- Best forCreative cooking
- StandoutGrill function
This is a unique entry because of the grill function. It allows you to brown and crisp the tops of dishes, which is something most microwaves cannot do.
It is for the cook who wants to experiment. I used it to get a nice crust on a grilled cheese sandwich, and it worked surprisingly well.
The 1100 watts of power ensure that the microwave function is just as strong as the grill function, making it a true dual-purpose appliance.
The grill function does require you to use specific accessories, and it takes longer to clean than a standard microwave due to the heating element.
What to Look for in Best Hamilton Beach Microwave 1.1 Cu Ft
Optimal Interior Cooking Space
A 1.1 cu ft capacity is the sweet spot for families, offering enough room for large dinner plates without consuming your entire counter.
Smart Sensor Cooking Power
Look for models with integrated smart sensors that automatically adjust time and power to prevent overcooking your meals.
Intuitive Control Panel Design
Prioritize units with one-touch presets and a responsive keypad to ensure quick, frustration-free operation during busy mornings.
Durable Exterior Finish Options
Choose between classic stainless steel or fingerprint-resistant black stainless to maintain a clean, modern aesthetic in your kitchen.
Reliable Wattage Performance
Ensure the microwave provides at least 900 to 1000 watts of power for consistent heating and faster defrosting times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 1.1 cu ft large enough for a standard dinner plate?
Yes, a 1.1 cu ft microwave is perfectly sized to fit most standard-sized dinner plates and large microwave-safe bowls. It provides ample vertical and horizontal clearance for everyday reheating tasks.
Does the Hamilton Beach 1.1 cu ft model include a child lock?
Most modern Hamilton Beach 1.1 cu ft models include a child safety lock feature. This prevents accidental operation by children and provides peace of mind for parents.
How do I clean the interior of my microwave?
For easy cleaning, place a bowl of water with lemon juice inside and heat it for three minutes. The steam will loosen stubborn food splatters, allowing you to wipe the interior clean with a damp cloth.
Can I use this microwave for baking?
No, these are standard countertop microwaves designed for reheating, defrosting, and basic cooking. They do not feature the heating elements required for true baking like a convection oven.
Is the turntable removable for cleaning?
Yes, the glass turntable and the rotating ring underneath are fully removable. You can wash them in the sink with warm, soapy water just like your regular dishes.
What is the difference between 0.9 and 1.1 cu ft models?
The 1.1 cu ft model offers slightly more internal volume, which is better suited for larger cookware. While both handle daily tasks well, the 1.1 cu ft size provides more flexibility for bulkier items.