As a busy student, you might find yourself relying on the convenience of a microwave to quickly heat up meals between classes. Take the case of Sarah, a sophomore who swears by her Comfee Countertop Microwave Oven. With its 11 power levels and eco-friendly mode, it’s the perfect compact cooking companion that helps her save time and energy. But there’s more to ponder when choosing the best microwave for your dorm room. From sleek retro designs to voice-controlled features, the options are endless. Delve into discovering the top 5 microwaves that could revolutionize your dorm life.
Contents
- COMMERCIAL CHEF 0.6 Cubic Foot Microwave
- Comfee Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.7 Cu Ft, Black
- Galanz Retro Microwave Oven, 0.7 cu ft (GLCMKA07GNR-07)
- BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable (EM720CB7)
- Amazon Basics Microwave, Small, 0.7 Cu. Ft, 700W, Works with Alexa
- Factors to Consider When Choosing Microwaves for Dorms
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can Microwaves Be Used to Heat up More Than Just Food?
- How Can I Keep My Dorm Microwave Clean and Well-Maintained?
- What Safety Precautions Should I Take When Using a Microwave in a Dorm?
- Can Microwaves Be Used to Charge or Power Other Devices?
- How Much Counter Space Do I Need for a Dorm-Sized Microwave?
- Conclusion
COMMERCIAL CHEF 0.6 Cubic Foot Microwave
For those living in the cramped quarters of a dorm, the COMMERCIAL CHEF 0.6 Cubic Foot Microwave offers a space-saving solution. With its compact 0.6 cubic foot capacity, this microwave won’t take up valuable counter space. Despite its small size, it packs a punch with 600 watts of power and 6 adjustable cooking levels, making it a versatile option for heating meals, defrosting, and more. The mechanical dial controls and grip handle provide an easy-to-use experience. While some users reported issues with steam collection and corrosion, the majority praised its affordability and reliable performance. For a budget-friendly, dorm-friendly microwave, the COMMERCIAL CHEF 0.6 Cubic Foot Microwave is worth considering.
Best For: The COMMERCIAL CHEF 0.6 Cubic Foot Microwave is best for college students, small households, or anyone looking for a compact, budget-friendly microwave.
Pros:
- Compact 0.6 cubic foot capacity saves counter space
- 6 adjustable power levels offer versatile cooking options
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Some users reported issues with steam collection and corrosion
- Smaller capacity may not meet the needs of larger households
- Mechanical dial controls may not appeal to all users
Comfee Countertop Microwave Oven, 0.7 Cu Ft, Black
The compact 0.7 cubic foot capacity and 700-watt power of the Comfee Countertop Microwave Oven make it an ideal choice for those living in dorm rooms or small kitchens. With 11 power levels, a mute function, and an ECO mode, this microwave offers versatility and energy efficiency. The bright digital display and easy-to-read control panel make it user-friendly, while the one-touch express cooking and defrost settings save time. Although some customers found the interface clunky and had quality control issues, the majority rated it 4.4 out of 5 stars. With a one-year limited warranty, this compact and affordable microwave is worth considering for dorm or apartment living.
Best For: Dorm rooms or small kitchens where a compact, energy-efficient, and user-friendly 0.7 cu ft, 700W microwave is needed.
Pros:
- Compact 0.7 cubic foot capacity and 700-watt power
- 11 power levels, mute function, and ECO mode for versatility and efficiency
- One-touch express cooking and defrost settings for convenience
Cons:
- Some customers found the interface clunky
- Quality control issues reported by some customers (e.g., wobbly legs, misaligned door)
- Customers had to adjust cooking times due to the 700W power
Galanz Retro Microwave Oven, 0.7 cu ft (GLCMKA07GNR-07)
With its compact 0.7 cu ft size, the Galanz Retro Microwave Oven is an ideal choice for students living in dorm rooms. Packing a powerful 700W punch with 6 variable power levels, it offers versatile cooking options. The defrost function, either by time or weight, makes quick work of frozen meals. You’ll appreciate the LED display that keeps you informed of the remaining cook time. Plus, the 360° rotating glass turntable guarantees even heating. The retro surf green design adds a touch of personality to your dorm kitchen. And the child lock feature provides peace of mind. While some reviewers noted issues with the warranty registration, the majority praise the Galanz microwave’s functionality and compact footprint, making it a top pick for dorm dwellers.
Best For: Students living in dorm rooms or those with limited kitchen space who need a compact yet powerful microwave oven.
Pros:
- Compact 0.7 cu ft size perfect for dorms
- Powerful 700W with 6 variable power levels
- Convenient defrost function by time or weight
Cons:
- Some issues reported with warranty registration process
- Instruction manual could be clearer
- May be too small for larger households
BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable (EM720CB7)
Compact and easy to use, the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is a great fit for dorm-living. Its 0.7 cubic feet capacity and 17.3″ x 13.0″ x 10.2″ dimensions make it perfect for tight spaces. You’ll appreciate the 10 power levels, removable glass turntable, and sensor technology for ideal results. The LED display and pre-programmed buttons for common tasks simplify operation, while the child safety lock provides peace of mind. Though some users report minor turntable issues, the EM720CB7’s stainless steel design, 700W of power, and positive customer reviews make it a solid dorm room microwave choice. At just $78, this BLACK+DECKER model delivers great value for the price.
Best For: The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven is best for dorm-living or small kitchens where compact size and easy operation are priorities.
Pros:
- Compact and space-saving design
- 10 power levels and pre-programmed buttons for convenience
- Child safety lock for added security
Cons:
- Smaller 0.7 cubic feet capacity may not suit all needs
- Lightweight construction
- Some reported issues with the turntable
Amazon Basics Microwave, Small, 0.7 Cu. Ft, 700W, Works with Alexa
For the space-constrained dorm room, the Amazon Basics Microwave’s compact 0.7 Cu. Ft size and 17.3 x 10.1 x 14.1 inch footprint make it an ideal choice. With 700W of power and 10 levels, you’ll effortlessly reheat coffee, melt butter, and cook potatoes. The Alexa integration is a game-changer, allowing you to use voice commands to start, stop, and adjust the microwave. While some users reported issues with the door latch and noise, Amazon’s excellent customer support provides quick resolutions. At just $41, the Amazon Basics Microwave delivers impressive value. Its child lock, turntable, and user-friendly controls make it a practical addition to any dorm. Maximize your counter space and culinary capabilities with this compact yet capable microwave.
Best For: The Amazon Basics Microwave is best for space-constrained dorm rooms and small kitchens that need a compact yet capable microwave.
Pros:
- Compact 0.7 Cu. Ft size and 17.3 x 10.1 x 14.1 inch footprint
- 700W of power and 10 power levels for efficient reheating and cooking
- Alexa integration for voice-controlled microwave operation
Cons:
- Some users have experienced issues with the door latch
- Occasional humming noise reported by a few users
- Limited to black color option
Factors to Consider When Choosing Microwaves for Dorms
When shopping for a microwave for your dorm, consider the size and capacity that fits your needs. Look for a model with sufficient power and wattage to heat up your meals quickly. Additionally, prioritize ease of use, energy efficiency, and safety features to guarantee a convenient and responsible appliance choice.
Size and Capacity
A microwave’s size and capacity are essential considerations when selecting the right one for your dorm room. A smaller microwave with a capacity of 0.6-0.7 cubic feet is ideal, as it can fit on a small countertop and accommodate small to medium-sized meals and snacks. Compact microwaves with a smaller footprint are more suitable for dorm rooms, where space is limited, and can be easily placed on a desk or shelf.
When choosing a microwave, consider the capacity in relation to the number of users. If you’ll be sharing the microwave, a larger capacity may be needed to meet your collective needs. Additionally, a microwave with a smaller capacity may have a lower power level, which can be beneficial for energy efficiency and reducing electricity costs in a dorm setting. Remember to also consider the interior dimensions, as they will impact the types and sizes of dishes that can be heated or cooked.
Power and Wattage
The power and wattage of a microwave are crucial factors when selecting one for your dorm room. Microwaves with higher wattage can cook and heat your food more efficiently, reducing the time it takes to prepare your meals. Look for a microwave with at least 700 watts of power, as this will provide enough oomph to handle common dorm-room tasks like reheating leftovers, making microwave popcorn, and cooking frozen dinners. Avoid underpowered models, which may struggle with tougher cooking jobs and leave your food unevenly heated. Pay attention to the wattage, as it directly impacts the microwave’s cooking performance. Additionally, consider your personal needs and the types of dishes you’ll be preparing. If you plan to cook more complex items, opt for a higher-wattage model, typically ranging from 900 to 1,200 watts. The right power and wattage will guarantee your microwave can handle all your dorm-room culinary adventures with ease.
Ease of Use
Besides power and wattage, ease of use is another crucial factor to ponder when choosing a microwave for your dorm room. A user-friendly interface with clear labels and minimal buttons can make the microwave a breeze to operate, even if you’ve got limited cooking experience. Look for a model with a simple, intuitive control panel that’ll reduce cooking time and minimize errors.
Preset buttons for common tasks like defrosting or reheating are a game-changer, streamlining the cooking process and making it more convenient. And a digital display provides clear instructions, cutting down on confusion, especially if you’re new to microwaves. Don’t forget about the turntable – it guarantees even cooking and reduces the need for manual rotation, so you can multitask with ease. With the right microwave, even a novice cook can whip up tasty meals in no time.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is another important factor to ponder when selecting a microwave for your dorm. Energy-efficient microwaves typically use less than 1 kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity per year, substantially reducing energy consumption and costs. Look for microwaves with the ENERGY STAR certification, as this indicates they meet energy efficiency standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Additionally, microwaves with lower wattage, such as 600-700 watts, tend to be more energy-efficient than those with higher wattage, like 1,000-1,200 watts. Some microwaves even have an ECO mode or a low-power standby mode to further reduce energy consumption when not in use. Choosing an energy-efficient microwave can help cut your carbon footprint and lower your electricity bills, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option for your dorm.
Safety Features
Safety should be a top priority when selecting a microwave for your dorm. Child safety locks are a vital feature, as they prevent accidental starts and guarantee only authorized individuals can operate the microwave. Look for microwaves with automatic shut-off features that turn off the appliance when cooking time is complete or when a fault is detected, reducing the risk of overheating or electrical fires.
A secure and stable turntable is essential to prevent hot containers from tipping over and causing burns or fires. Consider a microwave with a sensor cooking feature that automatically adjusts cooking time and power level to prevent overheating and reduce the risk of fires. Finally, choose a microwave with a cool-touch exterior and a protective door latch to help prevent burns and reduce the risk of electrical shock.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Microwaves Be Used to Heat up More Than Just Food?
Microwaves aren’t just for heating up food. You can use them to warm up a variety of items, like towels, mugs, and even heat pads for sore muscles. Just be mindful of the item’s material and microwave settings.
How Can I Keep My Dorm Microwave Clean and Well-Maintained?
You might be surprised to learn that your dorm microwave can do more than just heat up food. To keep it clean and well-maintained, wipe down the interior and exterior regularly, and avoid microwaving anything that could splatter or leave residue.
What Safety Precautions Should I Take When Using a Microwave in a Dorm?
When using a microwave in your dorm, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, avoid putting metal objects inside, and never operate it without proper ventilation. Be cautious of hot surfaces and contents to prevent burns or fires.
Can Microwaves Be Used to Charge or Power Other Devices?
Microwaves are designed for heating food, not powering other devices. It’s unsafe to use a microwave to charge or power anything besides the intended purpose. Stick to using it only for its intended use to avoid potential hazards.
How Much Counter Space Do I Need for a Dorm-Sized Microwave?
Did you know that the average dorm room is only 12 x 15 feet? With that limited space, you’ll need a compact microwave that doesn’t take up too much counter real estate. Aim for a model no wider than 18 inches to fit comfortably.
Conclusion
Your dorm room is your castle, and the microwave – your loyal kitchen companion. Choose wisely, and you’ll enjoy the convenience of hot meals and the freedom to craft your own culinary masterpieces. Whether you opt for the power of the Commercial Chef, the efficiency of the Comfee, or the voice-controlled Amazon Basics, your microwave will be the keystone that ties your dorm life together.
