Are you wondering if a 700-watt microwave is the right choice for your kitchen? You’re not alone. Many people face the dilemma of choosing the perfect microwave that balances power, efficiency, and price.
Key Takeaways
- Cooking Power: A 700-watt microwave is suitable for basic tasks like reheating and defrosting but has slower cooking times than higher wattage models.
- Space-Saving Design: These microwaves are compact and portable, making them ideal for small kitchens, dorms, and limited counter space.
- Energy Efficiency: Lower wattage leads to reduced power consumption, translating to potential savings on electricity bills while being friendlier to the environment.
- Heating Limitations: Expect uneven heating and longer cooking times; stirring or rotating food during the cooking process helps achieve better results.
- Brand Options: Trusted brands like Panasonic, Whirlpool, Black+Decker, and Emerson offer reliable 700-watt microwave options with varying features and designs.
- User Considerations: While many users appreciate the efficiency and compact design, some report frustrations with inconsistent heating and longer cooking times compared to higher wattage microwaves.
Overview Of 700 Watt Microwaves
A 700-watt microwave offers a compact option for those looking to save space while efficiently reheating meals. Understanding its features helps you determine if this wattage suits your cooking needs.
What Is A 700 Watt Microwave?
A 700-watt microwave generates a moderate amount of cooking power. This wattage results in slower cooking times compared to higher wattage models. You’ll find this microwave suitable for basic tasks like reheating leftovers, defrosting food, and cooking simple dishes. Keep in mind that foods might heat unevenly, so stirring or rotating them during cooking ensures better results.
Common Brands And Models
Several trusted brands offer 700-watt microwaves, providing good options for your kitchen:
- Panasonic: Known for its inverter technology, Panasonic microwaves offer consistent cooking and reheating.
- Whirlpool: Whirlpool models provide user-friendly controls and effective heating capabilities.
- Black+Decker: This brand often features compact designs catering to small kitchens and dorms.
- Emerson: Emerson microwaves combine affordability with solid performance.
Exploring these brands helps you discover various models with specific features, such as turntables, preset cooking functions, and easy-clean surfaces to simplify your cooking experience.
Benefits Of Using A 700 Watt Microwave
A 700-watt microwave offers several advantages for your cooking and reheating needs. Here are some key benefits to consider.
Energy Efficiency
700-watt microwaves consume less energy than their higher-wattage counterparts. This lower energy requirement can translate to reduced electricity bills, especially if you use your microwave frequently. By making efficient use of power, these models are environmentally friendly and cost-effective for everyday tasks like reheating coffee or warming up leftovers.
Compact Size And Portability
700-watt microwaves often come in compact designs, making them ideal for limited kitchen spaces. If you’re in a small apartment, dorm room, or a kitchen with minimal counter space, a smaller microwave fits neatly without overwhelming the area. Many models are lightweight, which enhances portability. You can easily move it when rearranging your kitchen or take it with you on trips if needed.
Limitations Of A 700 Watt Microwave
While a 700-watt microwave offers several benefits, it also comes with limitations that can impact your cooking experience.
Cooking Time Considerations
Cooking times with a 700-watt microwave often exceed those of higher wattage models. For example, reheating a dinner plate may take around 4 to 5 minutes instead of 2 to 3 minutes. This slower cooking speed can affect meal preparation, especially for large quantities or dense foods. If you’re in a rush, consider using a higher wattage microwave for quicker results.
Food Texture And Heating Issues
Food texture can suffer in a 700-watt microwave. Items like casseroles or baked goods may not heat evenly, leading to cold spots in the middle. Using a microwave-safe cover can help retain moisture and improve heating, but stirring food halfway through cooking is essential for even consistency. If you’re microwaving items like pizza, a lower wattage may yield a soggy crust rather than a crispy finish.
Comparison With Higher Wattage Microwaves
Comparing a 700-watt microwave with higher wattage models highlights key differences in performance and usability.
Cooking Speed
Cooking speed varies significantly between wattage levels. A 700-watt microwave may take longer to cook or heat food compared to 900-watt or 1,200-watt models. For instance, reheating a standard dinner plate may take 3-4 minutes in a 700-watt microwave, while a higher wattage model could complete the task in 2-3 minutes. If you’re often in a hurry, consider investing in a higher wattage microwave for quicker meal preparation.
Versatility In Cooking Methods
Versatility in cooking methods also differs among microwaves. A higher wattage microwave typically accommodates a wider range of cooking options, including baking and crisping. Many models over 1,000 watts offer convection settings, which provide even cooking and browning. In contrast, a 700-watt microwave excels at reheating but may lack advanced features. If you frequently prepare diverse meals, a multi-functional microwave with higher wattage might enhance your cooking experience.
User Experiences And Reviews
Many users share their experiences with 700-watt microwaves, highlighting both positive aspects and common complaints.
Positive Feedback
Users often appreciate the energy efficiency of 700-watt microwaves. Many report significant savings on their electricity bills due to lower power consumption. The compact design receives compliments, making these microwaves ideal for small kitchens or dorm rooms.
Convenience remains a key advantage. Users find these models effective for reheating leftovers, with many stating that they provide consistent results for items like soups and stews. Some users specifically note that brands like Panasonic and Black+Decker offer reliable performance, featuring user-friendly controls and sufficient cooking power for simple tasks. Reviews often mention effective defrosting capabilities, particularly for meats, which is vital for quick meal prep.
Common Complaints
While many users appreciate their 700-watt microwaves, some encounter issues. Cooking times often exceed those of higher wattage models, frustrating those who desire quicker meal preparation. Users report that heating a standard dinner plate may take 3-4 minutes, leading some to question whether lower wattage meets their cooking needs.
Inconsistent heating poses another problem. Users often note cold spots in foods, particularly denser items like casseroles. To combat this, they recommend stirring foods halfway through cooking, although not everyone remembers to do this. Issues with texture arise, especially when cooking items such as pizza or baked goods; users find it challenging to achieve a crispy crust.
Overall, while 700-watt microwaves cater well to specific needs, understanding both the strengths and limitations can enhance your cooking experience.
Conclusion
A 700-watt microwave can be a practical choice for your kitchen if you’re looking for something compact and energy-efficient. It’s great for reheating leftovers and defrosting food without taking up too much space. Just keep in mind that cooking times will be longer compared to higher wattage models.
If you often find yourself in a hurry or need to cook larger meals, you might want to consider a more powerful option. However, if you value efficiency and simplicity, a 700-watt microwave can serve you well. Ultimately, it’s all about finding the right balance that fits your cooking style and needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are 700-watt microwaves powerful enough for cooking?
700-watt microwaves are suitable for basic tasks like reheating leftovers and defrosting food. However, they may take longer for cooking compared to higher wattage models, making them less ideal for preparing larger meals or dense foods.
What are the advantages of a 700-watt microwave?
The main advantages include energy efficiency, lower electricity costs, compact size, and portability. They’re perfect for small kitchens, apartments, or dorm rooms, providing an economical option for everyday reheating tasks.
Do 700-watt microwaves cook evenly?
Cooking can be uneven in 700-watt microwaves, especially for denser foods or casseroles. To improve heating consistency, it’s recommended to stir or rotate food midway through the cooking process.
Which brands offer reliable 700-watt microwaves?
Several trusted brands include Panasonic, Whirlpool, Black+Decker, and Emerson. These brands are known for their unique features, user-friendly controls, and compact designs while maintaining affordability.
How long does it take to cook food in a 700-watt microwave?
Cooking times in a 700-watt microwave are generally longer. For example, reheating a standard dinner plate takes about 3-4 minutes compared to 2-3 minutes in higher wattage models.
Can I achieve crispy textures with a 700-watt microwave?
Achieving crispy textures can be challenging with a 700-watt microwave, especially for items like pizza. These models excel primarily at reheating rather than cooking or baking with specific texture requirements.
Is a 700-watt microwave a good choice for everyday use?
Yes, a 700-watt microwave is great for regular reheating tasks due to its energy efficiency and compact size. However, if quick meal preparation is essential, consider opting for a higher wattage model.
What should I consider before buying a 700-watt microwave?
Consider your cooking needs, kitchen size, and budget. If you mainly need it for reheating and have limited space, a 700-watt microwave could be a fitting choice. However, for diverse cooking options and speed, you might want a higher wattage model.
