If you’re shopping for a microwave and came across a 7 cubic foot microwave, you might be wondering just how big that actually is. The term “7 cubic foot” can seem a bit abstract-does it mean the microwave is huge or compact? In this article, we’ll break down the size of a 7 cubic foot microwave in simple terms, helping you understand its dimensions and whether it fits your kitchen space perfectly.
Understanding Microwave Capacity: What Does 7 Cubic Foot Mean?
First, it’s important to clarify that when we say “7 cubic foot microwave,” we actually mean 0.7 cubic feet-a common size for compact countertop microwaves. Microwaves are typically measured by their internal cooking cavity volume, expressed in cubic feet, which tells you how much space you have inside to heat or cook food.
So, a 0.7 cubic foot microwave is on the smaller side, ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or offices where space is limited but you still want a reliable microwave for everyday use.
Physical Dimensions of a 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave
To give you a clearer picture, here are the typical external and internal dimensions of a 0.7 cubic foot microwave:
– Exterior dimensions: Approximately
– Height: 10 to 10.2 inches
– Width: 17 to 17.3 inches
– Depth: 12.7 to 13 inches
– Interior cavity dimensions: Roughly
– Height: 8 to 8.2 inches
– Width: 11.9 to 12 inches
– Depth: 11.9 to 12 inches
These measurements mean the microwave is compact enough to fit comfortably on most kitchen countertops without taking up too much space, yet still offers enough room inside for plates, bowls, or containers of moderate size.
How Does a 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave Compare to Other Sizes?
Microwaves come in various sizes, and knowing how 0.7 cubic feet stacks up can help you decide if it suits your needs:
| Microwave Type | Height (inches) | Width (inches) | Depth (inches) | Capacity (cu. ft.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small Countertop | 10 – 11 | 15 – 18 | 12 – 16 | 0.5 – 0.9 |
| Standard & Large | 12 – 15 | 21 – 25 | 16 – 20 | 1.0 – 2.2 |
| Over-the-Range | 17 | 24 – 30 | 15 – 18 | 0.8 – 2.1 |
| Built-In | 17 – 22 | 24 – 30 | 20 – 25 | 1.0 – 2.2 |
As you can see, a 0.7 cubic foot microwave falls into the small countertop microwave category, making it perfect for those who need a compact appliance without sacrificing basic cooking functions.
What Can You Cook in a 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave?
Despite its smaller size, a 0.7 cubic foot microwave is versatile enough for everyday tasks such as:
– Reheating leftovers
– Cooking frozen meals
– Making popcorn
– Defrosting meat or vegetables
– Heating beverages
Its interior space is suitable for most standard plates and bowls, but it may not accommodate very large dishes or oversized cookware. If you regularly cook large meals or use big containers, you might want to consider a larger microwave.
Benefits of Choosing a 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave
– Space-saving: Its compact footprint fits easily on small countertops, dorm rooms, or offices.
– Energy-efficient: Smaller microwaves often use less power, making them cost-effective.
– Affordable: Generally, these models are budget-friendly without compromising essential features.
– Ease of use: Simple controls and smaller size make them user-friendly, especially for quick heating tasks.
Things to Consider Before Buying a 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave
– Kitchen space: Measure your countertop area to ensure the microwave fits comfortably.
– Cooking needs: Consider the size of dishes you typically use.
– Power: Most 0.7 cubic foot microwaves have power ratings around 700 watts, which is adequate for most heating tasks but slower than higher-powered models.
– Features: Look for models with convenient presets, turntables, and safety features like child locks.
Popular 0.7 Cubic Foot Microwave Models
Many brands offer microwaves in this size range. For example:
– GE’s 0.7 cubic foot microwave measures about 10.2″ H x 17.3″ W x 12.7″ D with a 700-watt power output.
– BLACK+DECKER offers a similar model with dimensions around 10.2″ H x 17.3″ W x 13″ D and 700 watts power.
– Comfee’s 0.7 cubic foot microwave also fits this size profile with a 10″ turntable and compact design.
These models are well-rated for their reliability and compact convenience.
A 0.7 cubic foot microwave is a compact, efficient choice for small spaces and everyday heating needs. Its size strikes a great balance between usability and saving kitchen space, making it a popular option for many households.