A 1.1 cubic feet microwave measures roughly 20–21 inches wide, 12 inches high, and 15–16 inches deep on the outside.
The outside dimensions of a 1.1 cubic feet microwave depend entirely on its type, since “1.1 cubic feet” describes the internal cavity volume, not its footprint. Countertop models and over-the-range units share this same capacity but carry very different measurements, so the model format matters more than the number itself. If you are checking whether one will fit your kitchen, the exterior specs below give you the honest range you are working with.
What Does 1.1 Cu. Ft. Mean For A Microwave?
The 1.1 cubic feet figure refers only to the space inside the oven where food cooks. It does not dictate how much room the appliance takes up on your counter or inside a cabinet. Two microwaves with identical capacity can have completely different outside dimensions because the number says nothing about the thickness of the housing, the door depth, or the control panel layout.
KitchenAid’s microwave dimensions guide places countertop units with 1.0 to 2.2 cu. ft. capacity at roughly 12–15 inches high, 21–25 inches wide, and 16–20 inches deep. In practice, a compact 1.1 cu. ft. model usually lands on the smaller end of that spectrum, making it a strong middle-ground choice for most standard counters.
Countertop Vs. Over-The-Range: Different Footprints
The format of the microwave is the single biggest factor in its outside size. A countertop model sits freely on a surface, while an over-the-range unit must match the width of the cabinet above your stove and requires proper ventilation planning.
Countertop Models
Countertop units in this capacity class run close to 20–21 inches wide, which suits most standard kitchen counters. Two current examples show the typical spread:
- The Whirlpool WMC30311LD, rated at 900 watts, measures 21.2 inches wide, 12.3 inches high, and 15.7 inches deep.
- The GE JES1145DMBB comes in at 20.3 inches wide, 12 inches high, and 15.6 inches deep.
Both fall within the expected footprint for a 1.1 cu. ft. appliance, and neither demands unusual counter depth. If you are comparing options, top-rated microwaves in this size range help narrow the field to proven performers.
Over-The-Range And Low-Profile Models
Over-the-range versions with 1.1 cu. ft. capacity look nothing like their countertop counterparts. These units are much wider to span the cooking surface and significantly shorter so you can see the back burners. The Samsung ME11A7710DS, a low-profile over-the-range model, measures about 29.9 inches wide, 10.75 inches high, and 19.1 inches deep, while its interior cavity is just over 18.5 inches wide and under 7 inches tall.
That shorter cavity height explains why low-profile models cannot fit taller dishes or large plates standing upright, even though their capacity matches a countertop unit.
How To Check Fit Before You Buy
Measuring your space correctly prevents the most common sizing mistakes. Before ordering, measure the width, height, and depth of the opening where the microwave will live, then compare those numbers against the exterior dimensions from the product page.
Pay attention to two details people routinely skip:
- Door-open depth. Whirlpool lists a 1.1 cu. ft. model at roughly 33.9 inches deep with the door swung open 90 degrees, far more than its closed depth of around 15 inches. In a tight kitchen, that swing can block a walkway or bump a cabinet pull.
- Format compatibility. A countertop model will not fit an over-the-range opening. Those spaces require the wider body and dedicated mounting and ventilation systems of a true over-the-range unit.
Wattage is a separate spec worth checking. A 1.1 cu. ft. microwave can carry anywhere from 900 to 1000 watts of cooking power depending on the model, which affects how quickly it heats food. Capacity alone does not standardize performance.
FAQs
Will a 1.1 cu ft microwave fit a standard cabinet?
Most standard kitchen base cabinets are 24 inches deep and about 33–36 inches high, so a typical countertop 1.1 cu. ft. model measuring around 12 inches high easily fits well within those limits. Check the exact width and depth of your opening first, since trim and framing can narrow usable space.
Is a 1.1 cubic foot microwave big enough for a family?
A 1.1 cu. ft. microwave suits small households and individuals well, with enough room for dinner plates and medium casserole dishes. Large platters, tall mugs, and 9×13 baking dishes often require a larger cavity. If you regularly cook for four or more people, a spacious 1.4–2.2 cu. ft. model gives far more flexibility.
What is the difference between a low-profile and a countertop microwave?
Low-profile microwaves are mounted over the range and have a wide, short body to preserve sightlines and headroom above the stove. Countertop models are taller and narrower, designed to sit on a flat surface. Despite both offering 1.1 cu. ft. capacity, their outside dimensions and installation requirements are completely different.
References & Sources
- Whirlpool. “1.1 Cu. Ft. Capacity Countertop Microwave with 900 Watt Cooking Power.” Official product page with full dimensions.
- GE Appliances. “GE 1.1 Cu. Ft. Capacity Countertop Microwave Oven.” Official product page with exterior measurements.
- KitchenAid. “Microwave Dimensions: What to Know Before You Buy.” Size guide for countertop and low-profile categories.
