How Big Is 1.1 Cubic Feet Microwave: Countertop Size Guide

A 1.1 cubic feet microwave is compact—big enough for plates, bowls, and small casseroles.

I’ve measured, tested, and lived with dozens of countertop microwaves, so I can tell you exactly what a 1.1 cubic feet microwave offers. This guide explains how big is 1.1 cubic feet microwave in plain terms, shows real dimensions, lists what fits inside, covers placement and installation tips, and gives buying advice you can trust. Read on and you’ll know whether a 1.1 cubic feet microwave fits your kitchen and your life.

What does 1.1 cubic feet mean?

Cubic feet measure interior volume. When you ask how big is 1.1 cubic feet microwave, you are asking about the usable space inside the microwave cavity. One cubic foot equals 1 foot by 1 foot by 1 foot. So 1.1 cubic feet is slightly larger than that cube.

Manufacturers round interior volume to one decimal place. That means two different 1.1 cubic feet microwaves can have slightly different shapes and usable space. Always check the actual interior width, depth, and height to understand real capacity.

Typical physical dimensions and usable space

Most 1.1 cubic feet microwave cavities translate to a roughly mid-size compact unit. Typical external countertop dimensions are:

• Width: 19 to 21 inches
• Height: 10.5 to 12.5 inches
• Depth: 14 to 16 inches (not including the handle)

Typical internal cavity dimensions are:

• Interior width: about 13 to 14.5 inches
• Interior height: about 7 to 8.5 inches
• Interior depth: about 12 to 13.5 inches

These numbers answer how big is 1.1 cubic feet microwave by showing both the outer footprint and the real usable space. If you need to fit a dinner plate, measure the plate diameter against the interior turntable size—most 1.1 cubic feet microwaves fit a 10 to 12 inch plate.

What can you realistically fit inside?

Knowing how big is 1.1 cubic feet microwave helps set expectations. Here’s what commonly fits:

• Dinner plates up to 11–12 inches across
• Medium mixing bowls and cereal bowls
• A 9×13 inch casserole dish if placed diagonally in some models
• Leftovers containers, mugs, and frozen meals

What might not fit comfortably:

• Large platters and oversized casserole dishes
• Tall stock pots or very deep baking dishes

Practical tip from my experience: try to test the plate or container you plan to use by measuring diameter and height. Many microwaves list the turntable diameter, which is a quick check for plate fit.

How to evaluate fit: measuring and simple tests

To make sure a 1.1 cubic feet microwave will work, follow these steps:

1. Measure your plates, containers, or casserole dish by diameter and height.
2. Compare those numbers to the microwave’s interior width and height.
3. Allow extra space for the turntable to rotate—typically 0.5 to 1 inch clearance.
4. If possible, visit a store and place your container in the demo cavity or check the turntable diameter.

These steps answer how big is 1.1 cubic feet microwave in a practical way. Don’t rely on volume alone; shape and turntable size matter.

Placement, ventilation, and installation tips

A 1.1 cubic feet microwave has a compact footprint, but proper placement matters.

• Counter clearance: leave at least 1–2 inches behind and 3 inches above for ventilation.
• Surface: use a flat, stable counter that can hold the unit’s weight and vibration.
• Over-the-range conversion: most 1.1 cubic feet models are countertop; confirm if you want an over-the-range unit.
• Power: plug directly into a grounded outlet; avoid long extension cords.

From field tests I’ve done, tight spaces can make a 1.1 cubic feet microwave feel even smaller. Plan for airflow and access to the door and controls.

Pros and cons of a 1.1 cubic feet microwave

Pros

• Space efficient for small kitchens and dorm rooms.
• Uses less countertop real estate than larger units.
• Often lower in cost and energy use.
• Fits most everyday dishes and frozen meals.

Cons

• Limited for large gatherings or big cookware.
• May require rearranging items to fit awkwardly shaped dishes.
• Some models have less even heating due to compact cavity.

Understanding how big is 1.1 cubic feet microwave helps balance the pros and cons for your needs.

Buying guide and practical tips

When shopping, keep these points in mind:

• Check the turntable diameter and interior height, not just the cubic feet.
• Read user reviews for notes on fit, sound, and heat distribution.
• Look for useful features: sensor cooking, quick cook pads, and child locks.
• Measure your counter space and appliance depth including the handle.

Personal lesson: I once bought a 1.1 cubic feet microwave that claimed to fit a 9×13 dish. In practice, the dish fit only when placed diagonally and blocked the door clearance. Learn from that: always measure your common dishes before buying.

Frequently Asked Questions of how big is 1.1 cubic feet microwave

What dishes will definitely fit in a 1.1 cubic feet microwave?

A 1.1 cubic feet microwave will fit standard dinner plates up to about 11–12 inches, mugs, and most medium bowls. Some 9×13 casserole dishes fit diagonally, but check interior depth and height first.

Can I reheat a whole frozen pizza in a 1.1 cubic feet microwave?

Small personal frozen pizzas (10–11 inches) may fit, depending on turntable diameter. Larger pizzas will likely not fit flat, and edges may not heat evenly.

Is a 1.1 cubic feet microwave good for a family of four?

It works for everyday reheating and simple meals, but for full-family cooking or large casseroles, you may want a larger model. For many families, a 1.1 cubic feet microwave is a practical second unit.

How much counter space does a 1.1 cubic feet microwave need?

Expect about 19–21 inches in width and 14–16 inches in depth, plus a few inches for ventilation. Measure your counter and the unit’s external specs before buying.

Does internal shape affect how big is 1.1 cubic feet microwave?

Yes. The shape, turntable size, and interior corners change usable space. Two microwaves with the same 1.1 cubic feet rating can have different real fit.

Conclusion

A 1.1 cubic feet microwave is a versatile compact option. It fits most plates, bowls, and many medium casserole dishes while keeping a small footprint on your counter. Measure your common cookware, check interior dimensions and the turntable size, and choose a model with the features you use most. If you need more space for large cookware often, consider a larger capacity, but for everyday use and small kitchens, a 1.1 cubic feet microwave often strikes the right balance. Try measuring what you own, compare specs, and pick the unit that fits both your food and your kitchen—then enjoy the convenience.