Tired of waiting forever for your leftovers to heat up? Do you dream of faster cooking times and perfectly melted cheese? Many people feel frustrated when their microwave just doesn’t deliver the power they need. Choosing a 1200 Watt microwave oven can be confusing. You see different features and prices, and you wonder which one is truly the best value for your kitchen.
These powerful microwaves promise speed, but how do you know which model actually performs? We understand the struggle to find the right balance of wattage, features, and price. This detailed guide cuts through the noise.
By reading on, you will learn exactly what makes a 1200 Watt oven stand out. We will break down the key features you must look for, compare top models, and help you buy the perfect speed machine for your home. Get ready to unlock faster, more efficient cooking!
Top 1200 Watt Microwave Oven Recommendations
- 【Better texture with sensor menus 】This 1200-watt high power countertop microwave with 10 power levels includes a pre-programmed sensor menu for optimum heating of popular foods like pizza, potato, vegetable and more
- 【Large Capacity for a Family Size】1.6 cu. ft. capacity ; 13.6" turntable; fitting a 13inch pizza; with one touch popcorn button as kitchen essential
- 【Position Memory Turntable】 Innovative position-memory technique resets the turntable to the initial position for more convenient and safer use
- 【Convenience Features】Auto defrost, fast cooking, memory function, multi-stage cooking, child safety lock, clock and kitchen timer
- 【Sound On/Off Function】If you wish to mute the buzzer of the microwave, please long press on the button "8" for 3-5 seconds; The buzzer is automatically switched off after a long beep.
- 【Large Capacity】2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity countertop microwave with 1200W power is perfect for large families. It can easily accommodate a 16-inch pizza and a whole chicken.
- 【Intuitive Humidity Sensor】The built-in humidity sensor with 6 Automatic Preset Menus gives your food an even heating result and seals the moisture inside for optimal results.
- 【6 Auto Menus】Equipped with 6 menus that fits your most daily needs including: bacon, frozen roll/muffin-reheat, beverage, chicken pieces and oatmeal.
- 【Auto-Defrost Function】 The Auto-Defrost Function defrosts meat, poultry and fish with different programs, simulating a natural defrost environment and achieving optimal defrosting results.
- 【Easy to Use】Kitchen essential with One pound/ auto defrost, energy-saving eco mode and sound on/off function, speedy cooking, memory function, multi-stage cooking, child safety lock, indoor light, clock and kitchen time.
- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This mandatory feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, with the option to deactivate it if not needed.
- COMPACT YET POWERFUL: 1200watts of power and 2.0 CU. FT. inside allow for effective, efficient cooking while not taking up valuable kitchen space; glass turntable rotates for optimum cooking
- SENSOR COOKING CONTROLS: Automatically adjusts time and power for delicious cooking results
- WEIGHT AND TIME DEFROST: Simply enter the weight of the food, and the oven automatically sets the optimal defrosting time and power level or set your desired time for defrosting
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: Simple, one-touch operation with Instant On express cooking controls and multiple cooking modes; kitchen timer, and cooking complete alarms add convenience
- TWO-STEP CHILD LOCK: This mandatory feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, with the option to deactivate it if not needed.
- COMPACT YET POWERFUL: 1200watts of power and 2.0 CU. FT. inside allow for effective, efficient cooking while not taking up valuable kitchen space; glass turntable rotates for optimum cooking
- SENSOR COOKING CONTROLS: Automatically adjusts time and power for delicious cooking results
- WEIGHT AND TIME DEFROST: Simply enter the weight of the food, and the oven automatically sets the optimal defrosting time and power level or set your desired time for defrosting
- CONVENIENT CONTROLS: Simple, one-touch operation with Instant On express cooking controls and multiple cooking modes; kitchen timer, and cooking complete alarms add convenience
- Two-Step Child Lock: This mandatory safety feature helps prevent unintended use by younger family members, plesase open the machine according to the steps shown in the figure.
- Inverter Microwave with Smart Sensor: Built-in humidity sensor intelligently adjusts power and cooking time, making sure your food is never undercooked or overcooked. Inverter technology provides even cooking, reheating, and defrosting with no cold spots for great results every time.
- 6 Automatic Sensor Cook & Auto Menus: This microwave oven features 6 sensor cook and auto menus for effortless cooking and reheating of dinners, snacks, beverages, and much more.
- 10 Power Levels: Perfect for everything from defrosting to boiling liquids to preparing full meals, 10 power cooking power levels offer great versatility for all of your culinary needs.
- Specifications: Microwave output power 1200 watts, input power 1350 watts. External dimensions 24.4 x 21.6 x 13.6 inches (WxDxH), internal dimensions 17.8 x 19.1 x 11.2 inches (WxDxH); includes a 16.5-inch glass turntable.
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass turntable.
- Smart Sensor Technology for Optimal Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. Say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked dishes.
- 6 Preset Menus: This countertop microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like pizza, veggle, sensor reheat and more.
- 10 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
- Family-sized 2.2 cu. ft. capacity, 1200 watts, Stainless
- New! Gray Interior; New! White LED Display; New! LED Interior Lighting; New! Inverter Cooking Technology
- 16.5" Carousel turntable for even cooking; 10 Power Levels with 2-stage cooking
- Convenient "+30 seconds" key for instant start; Melt/Soften Function; Sensor Cook for precise cooking and reheating; Auto Cook for popular menu items
- Weight and Time Defrost for quick and accurate thawing; Convenient "Express Cook" with single press up to 6 mins cooking
- Microwave output power 1000 watts, input power 1600 watts. External dimensions 20.6 x 16.0 x 11.8 inches (WxDxH); internal dimensions 13.1 x 12.4 x 8.3 inches (WxDxH); includes 12.4-inch glass turntable.
- Smart Sensor Technology for Optimal Cooking: Automatically adjusts cooking time and power based on food humidity, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. Say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked dishes.
- 6 Preset Menus: This countertop microwave features 6 preset menu options for popular foods like pizza, veggle, sensor reheat and more.
- 10 Unique Power Levels with clock and kitchen timer: Tailor your cooking power levels for greater culinary flexibility, making it an essential kitchen tool. Perfect for everything from deodorization to boiling liquids.
- Easy Defrost & One touch start: Defrost your frozen food by weight or by time. Quick access to start the microwave from 1 to 6 minutes cooking at full power.
The Power Play: Your Guide to Buying a 1200 Watt Microwave Oven
A 1200-watt microwave oven is a powerhouse in the kitchen. This higher wattage means faster cooking and reheating times. If you often cook large meals or need quick results, this guide will help you choose the best model.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a 1200W microwave, several features make a big difference in your daily use.
1. Power Levels and Inverter Technology
- Multiple Power Settings: Even though it’s 1200W, you need lower settings for delicate tasks like melting chocolate. Look for at least 10 power levels.
- Inverter Technology: This is a game-changer. Inverter microwaves deliver continuous, even power, even at lower settings. This prevents food from getting hot on the edges and cold in the middle.
2. Capacity and Size
1200W models often come in mid-to-large sizes. Measure your counter space first!
- Capacity: For families, look for 1.2 cubic feet or larger. Smaller households might manage with a slightly smaller but still powerful 1.0 cubic foot model.
- Turntable Size: Ensure the glass turntable is large enough (usually 12 to 14 inches) to fit dinner plates easily.
3. Preset Cooking Programs
Convenience is key. Good presets save time.
- Sensor Cooking: The microwave senses the steam coming off your food and adjusts the time automatically. This stops overcooking.
- Specific Presets: Check for dedicated buttons for popcorn, pizza reheating, or frozen dinners.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The quality of the materials affects durability and cleaning.
Interior Construction
- Stainless Steel Interior: This material heats up quickly and is very durable. It resists stains better than painted interiors.
- Ceramic Enamel: This is a premium option. It is extremely easy to wipe clean and resists scratches well.
Exterior and Door
A sturdy exterior keeps the unit looking good. Look for stainless steel casings if you want a modern look that matches other appliances.
- Door Mechanism: Test the door. Does it open smoothly? Some models use a push-button release, while others use a handle. Handles often feel more robust.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one 1200W microwave better than another?
Quality Boosters
- Quiet Operation: Higher-end models use better insulation, making them quieter when running.
- Intuitive Controls: Buttons should be clearly labeled and respond immediately when pressed. A bright, clear digital display helps you track cooking time easily.
Quality Reducers (Watch Outs)
- Cheap Plastic Components: If the turntable ring or interior supports feel flimsy, the microwave might not last long under heavy use.
- Inconsistent Heating: If reviews frequently mention cold spots even at high power, the magnetron (the part that makes the waves) might be low quality, even if the wattage rating is high.
User Experience and Use Cases
A 1200W microwave excels in specific situations.
Fast Reheating and Defrosting
If you constantly reheat leftovers for a large family, 1200W cuts the time almost in half compared to an 800W unit. Defrosting frozen meats is also much faster and more even.
Cooking from Scratch
Many recipes, like baked potatoes or quick steamed vegetables, require high power. This wattage allows you to “bake” things faster, mimicking some oven functions for small batches.
Placement Matters
Because these units are powerful, ensure they have adequate ventilation space around them, as specified by the manufacturer. Overheating can reduce the lifespan of any microwave.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 1200 Watt Microwaves
Q: Is 1200 watts too much power for a small apartment?
A: Not necessarily. While 1200W is powerful, almost all models allow you to reduce the power level for gentle heating. You get the speed when you need it and control when you don’t.
Q: How much faster is 1200W than 1000W?
A: The difference is noticeable, especially for large items. A 1000W unit might take 4 minutes to boil water, while a 1200W unit might take about 3 minutes and 20 seconds. It saves time over many uses.
Q: Do 1200W microwaves use more electricity?
A: They use more power while running. However, because they finish the cooking cycle faster, the total energy used for a single task is often very similar to a lower-wattage model.
Q: Are 1200W models usually bigger than standard microwaves?
A: Often, yes. The larger cavity is needed to spread the higher power evenly. Always check the external dimensions before buying.
Q: What is the benefit of sensor cooking on a high-wattage microwave?
A: Sensor cooking is crucial on powerful units. It prevents the high 1200W energy from instantly overcooking food when it senses steam.
Q: Can I use metal racks inside a 1200W microwave?
A: Only if the manufacturer specifically states the rack is microwave-safe. Never put regular metal inside; it causes sparking.
Q: What should I look for if I want to minimize noise?
A: Read user reviews specifically mentioning noise levels. Higher-quality insulation and better motor design reduce the humming sound.
Q: How often should I clean the inside of a powerful microwave?
A: Because high heat cooks food faster, splatters happen quickly. Wipe down the interior at least once a week to prevent baked-on messes that are hard to remove.
Q: Is inverter technology worth the extra cost in a 1200W unit?
A: Yes. For high power, inverter technology ensures that your food heats evenly instead of just blasting it with high energy.
Q: What is the typical lifespan of a quality 1200W microwave?
A: A well-maintained, high-quality 1200W microwave should last between 8 to 12 years.