When it comes to kitchen appliances, microwaves are among the most versatile tools available. They allow for quick meal preparation, reheating leftovers, and even baking! However, determining the right microwave wattage can often be confusing. One common option that tends to raise questions is the 700-watt microwave. Is it powerful enough for everyday cooking, or is it simply too weak for your culinary needs? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of 700-watt microwaves, their ideal use cases, and provide insight into how they compare with higher wattage units.
Understanding Microwave Wattage
Before we delve into the specifics of the 700-watt microwave, it’s essential to understand microwave wattage in general. Microwave wattage refers to the amount of power the microwave uses to heat food. Higher wattage generally means faster cooking times and more even heating. While most microwaves fall between 600 to 1200 watts, your choice should depend on your cooking needs.
The Benefits of a 700 Watt Microwave
Choosing a 700-watt microwave can be advantageous for several reasons:
- Cost-Effective: Generally, 700-watt microwaves are less expensive than their more powerful counterparts. If you’re on a budget, this could be a great option.
- Ideal for Basic Tasks: For individuals who primarily need a microwave for reheating and defrosting, 700 watts can be sufficient. It can warm up soups, leftovers, and beverages adequately.
Disadvantages of a 700 Watt Microwave
Despite the benefits, there are some drawbacks to consider:
Longer Cooking Times: A 700-watt microwave might take longer than a high-wattage model for cooking or defrosting food. If you’re often in a hurry, this could be a significant downside.
Limited Cooking Capacity: Some recipes rely on higher wattage to ensure even cooking and proper texture. Complex dishes might not turn out as well in a 700-watt microwave.
Who Should Consider a 700 Watt Microwave?
A 700-watt microwave can be perfect for certain individuals or situations. Here’s a breakdown of who might benefit from this wattage:
1. College Students
For students living in dorms or shared apartments, a 700-watt microwave can be the perfect kitchen appliance. These microwaves are compact and provide the necessary functionality for students looking to heat up quick meals or snacks without needing anything more complex.
2. Occasional Users
If you don’t frequently use a microwave and mainly need it for reheating or defrosting, a 700-watt microwave is a practical choice. It covers the basics without complexity or excessive energy consumption.
3. Small Households
For individuals or couples, the functional capacity of a 700-watt microwave can often be enough. If you primarily cook simple meals or use the microwave for heating ready-made meals, you might find it suits your lifestyle perfectly.
4. Budget-Conscious Consumers
If affordability is your top priority, the 700-watt microwave is often more accessible in terms of price. You can get a reliable unit without breaking the bank.
700 Watt Microwaves vs. Higher Wattage Microwaves
When comparing a 700-watt microwave to higher wattage models (like 900-watt or 1200-watt), a few notable differences emerge:
Cooking Time Comparison
A 700-watt microwave typically requires longer cooking times compared to higher-wattage models. Here’s a brief comparison:
| Microwave Wattage | Approximate Cooking Time (for 1 cup of water) |
|---|---|
| 700 Watts | 2-3 minutes |
| 900 Watts | 1.5-2 minutes |
| 1200 Watts | 1-1.5 minutes |
As evident from the table, the higher the wattage, the quicker the cooking. If you frequently prepare meals or follow complicated cooking instructions, a higher wattage microwave may be a better investment.
Cooking Versatility
Higher wattage microwaves often come with more advanced features and cooking options, such as:
Auto Cook Settings: These can automatically adjust cooking times and power levels based on the type of food.
Convection Technology: Some models combine microwave technology with convection oven capabilities for a broader range of cooking methods.
In contrast, the 700-watt microwave typically has more basic settings, making it less versatile for those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen.
Key Features to Consider When Buying a 700 Watt Microwave
Before purchasing a 700-watt microwave, you should consider various important features to ensure it fits your needs:
1. Size and Capacity
The size of the microwave should suit your kitchen space, and the interior capacity should be adequate for your cooking needs. Standard sizes range from compact (20-25 liters) to larger models (30 liters and above).
2. Control Options
Microwaves can offer different control options, including:
- Mechanical Dials: Simple and user-friendly, ideal for basic functions.
- Digital Controls: Offer various settings, timers, and presets for convenient cooking.
3. Turntable and Stirrers
Models with a turntable ensure more even cooking by rotating food as it heats. Some models also include stirrers for additional evenness, which can be particularly useful for items like casseroles.
4. Energy Efficiency
While saving on energy costs is important, also consider the appliance’s overall energy consumption, especially if you plan to use it frequently.
How to Maximize the Use of a 700 Watt Microwave
If you opt for a 700-watt microwave, here are a few hacks and tips for maximizing its potential:
1. Use Microwave-Safe Containers
Always use containers labeled as microwave-safe to ensure safety and prevent harmful chemicals from leaching into your food.
2. Adjust Cooking Times
Since cooking times will differ in a 700-watt microwave compared to more powerful models, refer to a wattage conversion chart when following recipes designed for higher wattages. This way, you can adjust times accordingly to avoid undercooking or overcooking your food.
3. Stir and Rotate Foods
To ensure even cooking, take the time to stir or rotate food midway through cooking, especially when reheating larger portions.
4. Cover Your Food
Cover your food with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe wrap to retain moisture and ensure even heating throughout.
Conclusion
In closing, a 700-watt microwave can be a viable choice for specific users, especially those who need an affordable and compact appliance for straightforward reheating and cooking tasks. While it may not offer the speed or versatility of higher-wattage models, it adequately meets the needs of budget-conscious consumers, small households, and occasional users.
Before deciding, weigh your cooking habits against the pros and cons of a 700-watt microwave. Each kitchen is different, so understanding your needs will guide you to the right choice. Whether you decide on a 700-watt microwave or a more powerful unit, making an informed decision will ultimately lead to a smoother cooking experience and satisfaction.
What can I cook in a 700 watt microwave?
A 700 watt microwave is versatile enough to handle a variety of cooking tasks. You can easily reheat leftovers, prepare frozen meals, and thaw out meats or vegetables. It’s also suitable for cooking simpler dishes such as popcorn, baked potatoes, and steamed vegetables. However, some complex recipes that require precise cooking times may not perform as well in a lower wattage microwave.
While it may not be the top choice for elaborate meals, it can still efficiently handle a wide range of tasks. If you’re mindful of cooking times and adjust them according to your microwave’s wattage, you’ll find that a 700 watt microwave can still serve most of your cooking needs well.
How does a 700 watt microwave compare to higher wattage microwaves?
When comparing a 700 watt microwave to those with higher wattages, the main difference lies in cooking speed and efficiency. Higher wattage microwaves, ranging from 900 to 1200 watts, can cook food quicker and evenly. They are often better for larger or more complicated meals that require consistent heating.
On the other hand, a 700 watt microwave may take longer to cook the same foods, which can be a consideration if you are in a hurry. However, it can be a more budget-friendly option and typically consumes less energy, making it suitable for small households or individuals who primarily reheat or prepare simple meals.
Is a 700 watt microwave energy-efficient?
Yes, a 700 watt microwave is generally more energy-efficient than higher wattage models. Because it uses less power to operate, you can save on your electricity bills while still enjoying the convenience of microwave cooking. This can make it an ideal choice for those looking to minimize energy consumption in their kitchens.
Additionally, lower wattage microwaves often produce less heat compared to their more powerful counterparts, which can help keep your kitchen cooler, especially during warmer months. So while it may have limitations in terms of cooking speed, the energy efficiency of a 700 watt microwave makes it appealing for those with lighter cooking demands.
Can I use a 700 watt microwave for baking?
Baking in a 700 watt microwave can be trickier than traditional ovens or higher wattage microwaves. While it’s possible to bake simple items such as cakes or muffins, it will require adjustments in cooking times and techniques. Recipes intended for ovens do not directly translate to microwave baking, so you might have to experiment to get desired results.
Using microwave-safe cookware and following specific microwave baking recipes will help improve your success rate. You should also keep in mind that the texture of baked goods may differ when cooked in a microwave, often resulting in a denser product that lacks the crispness achieved in traditional baking methods.
Should I choose a 700 watt microwave for a small kitchen?
A 700 watt microwave can be an excellent choice for a small kitchen due to its compact size and energy efficiency. If you have limited counter space, a smaller microwave will fit more easily without overwhelming the kitchen. Additionally, the lower wattage typically correlates with a smaller physical size, making it easier to integrate into tight spaces.
If you’re primarily using a microwave for reheating and cooking basic meals, a 700 watt microwave will serve your needs well. However, consider your cooking habits and whether you might eventually want to prepare more complex meals, as this could influence your decision.
Are there any drawbacks to a 700 watt microwave?
Yes, there are a few drawbacks to consider when choosing a 700 watt microwave. One of the main concerns is its cooking time; because it has a lower wattage, you may find that it takes longer to reheat or cook food compared to higher wattage models. This can be a notable inconvenience if you often need meals prepared quickly.
Another potential downside is that certain functions may be limited; for example, browning or crisping may be less effective since these typically require higher wattage for adequate performance. Therefore, if you plan to do more than simple reheating or steaming, you might find a higher wattage microwave better suits your needs.