Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts Review Compact and Powerful for Small Kitchens

Description

Compact Design and Everyday Convenience

Testing the Farberware Countertop Microwave 700 Watts, 0.7 Cu. Ft., I quickly realized its standout feature is its space-saving design. Its compact dimensions—just 12.99 x 17.3 x 10.14 inches—make it a perfect fit for smaller kitchens, apartments, or even dorm rooms. I placed it in a cozy corner of my kitchen, and it blended seamlessly with the rest of my appliances. Despite its small footprint, it offers plenty of interior space, allowing me to heat up dinner plates and medium-sized bowls without issue. The stainless steel finish gives it a sleek, modern appearance that feels more premium than you’d expect at this size.

User-Friendly Features for Everyday Use

This microwave is loaded with features that make daily tasks easier. The six one-touch cooking options are particularly handy. Whether it’s popcorn for a movie night, reheating leftover pizza, or steaming a potato, the presets are intuitive and save time. I appreciated the ten power levels, which allowed me to customize the cooking intensity to suit different dishes. Additionally, the defrost options by weight or time are a lifesaver when I forget to plan ahead. The LED display is bright and easy to read, and the kitchen timer function is a thoughtful inclusion, especially when multitasking.

Performance and Efficiency

With 700 watts of cooking power, this microwave heats food efficiently, though I noticed it takes slightly longer than higher-wattage models for bulkier meals. That said, it’s perfectly adequate for reheating leftovers, cooking single portions, or preparing quick snacks. The multi-stage cooking feature allows for transitions between power levels during a single cooking cycle, which is great for more precise recipes. The interior lighting is surprisingly bright, making it easy to monitor food without opening the door.

Key Benefits

• Compact size fits small spaces without compromising functionality.
• Six one-touch cooking programs simplify meal prep.
• Child safety lock provides peace of mind for households with young children.
• Easy-to-clean interior saves time and effort.

Areas of Concern

• The 700-watt power may feel underwhelming for those used to faster cooking times.
• The 0.7 cu. ft. capacity limits its use for larger families or bulk cooking.
• The plastic control panel doesn’t feel as durable as the stainless steel exterior.

Safety and Accessibility

One feature that stood out during testing is the child safety lock. As someone with curious young relatives visiting often, I found this to be an invaluable addition. The easy-grip handle is another thoughtful touch, making it accessible for individuals who might struggle with push-button doors.

Alternative Offerings

When comparing this model to competitors like the Panasonic NN-SN686S or the Hamilton Beach 0.9 Cu. Ft. microwave, the Farberware Countertop Microwave holds its own in terms of compactness and simplicity. Panasonic’s model offers higher wattage and larger capacity, making it better for bigger households, but it also takes up significantly more counter space. The Hamilton Beach, while slightly larger, doesn’t feel as intuitive or sleek in design. The Farberware’s child lock feature and one-touch presets give it an edge for small households or dorm dwellers seeking practicality.

Value for Money

This microwave strikes an excellent balance of quality and affordability. While it doesn’t boast the high-end features of pricier models, its versatile cooking options and compact design make it a solid choice for those on a budget. If you’re looking for a reliable, no-frills microwave with just enough features to make life easier, this product delivers. Its cost-effectiveness is particularly appealing for students, small families, or anyone needing a secondary microwave for occasional use.

Every aspect of this microwave feels intentionally designed for convenience and simplicity. While it may not satisfy those seeking premium performance or large-capacity cooking, it excels in its targeted purpose—providing quick, efficient meals in a compact, stylish package.

Additional information