Microwaves are very useful in every kitchen. They help us cook food faster and make our lives easier. But with so many types of microwaves, how do you pick the right one? One popular choice is the 700 watt microwave. Is it good for you?
In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of a 700 watt microwave to help you decide if it’s the best option for your kitchen. Whether you’re a busy student, a single person, or just looking to save some money, we’ve got the answers you need. Keep reading to find out if a 700 watt microwave is good for you.
Understanding Microwave Wattage
Microwave wattage is a measure of the power a microwave uses to cook food. In simple terms, the higher the wattage, the more power the microwave has. This power directly impacts how fast and efficiently your food cooks.
How Wattage Affects Cooking Time and Efficiency Higher wattage microwaves cook food faster. For example, a microwave with 1000 watts will heat your food quicker than one with 700 watts. This means you spend less time waiting for your meals to be ready. Additionally, higher wattage can cook food more evenly, reducing the chances of cold spots.
Comparing Different Wattage Levels
- 600W: These microwaves are usually the slowest. They are good for simple tasks like reheating small portions or making popcorn, but cooking full meals can take longer.
- 700W: These offer a balance between cost and cooking speed. They are efficient for daily use, especially if you are cooking for one or two people.
- 1000W and above: These are powerful and cook food very quickly. They are great for families or anyone who needs to cook large meals often.
Advantages of a 700 Watt Microwave
Cost-Effectiveness
One of the biggest benefits of a 700 watt microwave is that it is generally more affordable than higher wattage models. If you are on a budget, a 700 watt microwave can be a great choice. Not only is the initial cost lower, but it also uses less energy. This means you can save money on your electricity bill over time. Lower energy consumption makes it an economical option for everyday use.
Space-Saving Design
Another advantage of a 700 watt microwave is its compact size. These microwaves are typically smaller and more lightweight, making them perfect for kitchens with limited space. If you live in a small apartment, dorm room, or have a crowded kitchen, a 700 watt microwave can fit nicely without taking up too much counter space. Its space-saving design makes it convenient and easy to store when not in use.
Sufficient for Basic Cooking Needs
A 700 watt microwave is powerful enough to handle most basic cooking tasks. It can efficiently reheat leftovers, cook instant meals, make popcorn, and even bake small items. Here are some examples of what you can easily prepare with a 700 watt microwave:
- Reheat meals: Perfect for warming up last night’s dinner or a quick lunch.
- Cook instant noodles or soup: Quick and easy for a fast meal.
- Make popcorn: Great for movie nights or a snack.
- Bake small cakes or muffins: Ideal for small baking projects.
- Steam vegetables: Healthy and fast option for side dishes.
These microwaves are versatile and can meet the needs of individuals or small families who don’t require the extra power of higher wattage models. They provide a good balance of performance and convenience for everyday cooking tasks.
Limitations of a 700 Watt Microwave
Longer Cooking Times
One of the main drawbacks of a 700 watt microwave is that it takes longer to cook food compared to higher wattage microwaves. For example, a dish that might take 2 minutes to heat in a 1000 watt microwave could take around 3-4 minutes in a 700 watt microwave. This can be a bit inconvenient if you’re in a hurry. You might also need to adjust cooking instructions. Recipes designed for higher wattage microwaves may require more time or multiple cycles in a 700 watt microwave to ensure the food is cooked properly.
Limited Power for Certain Foods
Another limitation is that a 700 watt microwave may not have enough power to cook some foods evenly or thoroughly. For instance, thick cuts of meat or dense foods like casseroles might end up being undercooked in the center. Additionally, defrosting large portions of food can be challenging. While a 700 watt microwave can defrost smaller items, it might struggle with bigger portions, leading to uneven thawing with some parts still frozen and others starting to cook. Reheating larger portions can also be tricky, as it might take multiple cycles to heat the food all the way through without leaving cold spots.
Ideal Users for a 700 Watt Microwave
Students and Single Individuals
A 700 watt microwave is perfect for students and single individuals. It’s great for making small meals and snacks, which is ideal if you’re living alone or in a dorm. You can quickly reheat leftovers, cook instant noodles, or make a cup of tea. Its compact size also means it won’t take up much space in a small apartment or dorm room.
Office Kitchens
This type of microwave is also a good fit for office kitchens. Employees can use it to reheat their lunches or make quick snacks during breaks. Its lower power is sufficient for these simple tasks, and its smaller size means it won’t take up too much space in a shared kitchen. It’s a convenient option for workplace environments.
People on a Budget
For those who are on a budget, a 700 watt microwave is a cost-effective choice. It’s usually cheaper than higher wattage models and uses less electricity, which can save you money on your energy bills. If you don’t need a high-power microwave for complex cooking tasks, this is a great option that provides good value for the price.
Tips for Using a 700 Watt Microwave Effectively
Adjusting Cooking Times
When using a 700 watt microwave, you might need to adjust cooking times for recipes designed for higher wattages. A general rule is to add extra time. For instance, if a recipe calls for 2 minutes in a 1000 watt microwave, you may need to cook it for about 2.5 to 3 minutes in a 700 watt microwave. Always check your food halfway through to avoid overcooking.
Stirring and Rotating Food
Stirring and rotating your food during cooking is essential for even heating in a 700 watt microwave. Microwaves often heat unevenly, so giving your food a stir or rotating the dish can help ensure that all parts are cooked properly. This is especially important for soups, casseroles, and other dishes with varied textures and densities.
Using Microwave-Safe Containers
To get the best results, always use microwave-safe containers. Glass, ceramic, and certain plastics labeled as microwave-safe are good choices. Avoid using metal or containers with metallic trim, as these can cause sparks and damage the microwave. Using the right containers helps ensure your food heats evenly and safely.
Customer Reviews and Opinions
Positive Reviews
Many users appreciate 700 watt microwaves for their affordability and compact size. Positive reviews often mention how easy these microwaves are to use, making them perfect for quick meals and snacks. Customers also like their lower energy consumption, which helps save on electricity bills. People living in small apartments or dorms find these microwaves ideal due to their space-saving design.
Negative Reviews
On the other hand, some users have complaints about the longer cooking times compared to higher wattage microwaves. There are also mentions of uneven cooking, especially with larger or denser foods. Some customers feel that the power is insufficient for more complex cooking tasks, like defrosting large portions or baking. These issues highlight the limitations of a 700 watt microwave for certain users and cooking needs.
Conclusion
In summary, a 700 watt microwave has both advantages and limitations. It is affordable, energy-efficient, and compact, making it perfect for students, single individuals, office kitchens, and those on a budget. It handles basic cooking tasks well, such as reheating, cooking simple meals, and making snacks.
However, it does have some drawbacks. Cooking times are longer compared to higher wattage microwaves, and it may struggle with evenly cooking or defrosting larger or denser foods. These limitations might make it less suitable for families or those who frequently prepare more complex meals.
Overall, a 700 watt microwave is a good choice for those who need a budget-friendly, space-saving appliance for basic cooking needs. If you require faster cooking times and more power for diverse cooking tasks, you might benefit from investing in a higher wattage model. Consider your specific needs and kitchen space to make the best decision.
FAQs
Can a 700 Watt Microwave Cook Popcorn?
Yes, a 700 watt microwave can cook popcorn. It may take a bit longer than higher wattage microwaves, typically around 2.5 to 3 minutes. Be sure to follow the instructions on the popcorn package and listen for the popping to slow down to avoid burning.
How Long Does It Take to Heat a Cup of Coffee in a 700 Watt Microwave?
Heating a cup of coffee in a 700 watt microwave usually takes about 1.5 to 2 minutes. However, the exact time may vary depending on the size of the cup and the initial temperature of the coffee. It’s best to start with a shorter time and add more as needed.
Are 700 Watt Microwaves Energy Efficient?
Yes, 700 watt microwaves are generally more energy-efficient than higher wattage models. They use less electricity, which can help reduce your energy bills. While they may take a bit longer to cook food, their lower energy consumption makes them a cost-effective choice for many users.
Can I Use a 700 Watt Microwave to Defrost Meat?
A 700 watt microwave can defrost meat, but it may take longer and require more attention to ensure even thawing. It’s recommended to use the defrost setting and periodically turn or rotate the meat to prevent uneven defrosting. For larger portions, you might need to check and adjust the position of the meat several times.
