How Big Is a 0.7 to 1.1 Cubic Feet Microwave? Dimensions Explained

A 0.7 cubic feet microwave runs about 17–18 inches wide and 10 inches high, while a 1.1 cubic feet model jumps to roughly 21 inches wide and 15 inches deep.

External width, height, and depth decide whether a microwave fits your kitchen. Cubic feet only tells you what fits inside. Here’s the real external sizing for both classes, what each cavity holds, and how to measure your counter before buying.

What Are the External Dimensions of a 0.7 and 1.1 Cubic Feet Microwave?

A 0.7 cubic feet countertop microwave typically measures 12–13 inches deep, 17–18 inches wide, and 10–10.5 inches high. A 1.1 cubic feet unit usually measures about 15 inches deep, 21 inches wide, and 11–12 inches high.

Real models show the pattern. Toshiba’s 0.7 cubic feet microwave lists 12.2″ D x 17.1″ W x 9.5″ H with a 9.6-inch turntable. Midea’s 0.7 cubic feet model lists 12.79 in. deep, 17.03 in. wide, 10.19 in. high, and 21.16 lb. A typical 1.1 cubic feet listing shows 15.35 in. deep, 21.04 in. wide, 11.18 in. high — three inches wider than the Toshiba. Counters built for a compact unit often can’t absorb that extra width without losing a landing zone beside the microwave.

Microwave Size Typical External Dimensions (W x H x D) Best For
0.7 cu. ft. (Toshiba) 17.1″ x 9.5″ x 12.2″ Dorms, offices, single-plate reheating
0.7 cu. ft. (Midea) 17.03″ x 10.19″ x 12.79″ Apartments with tight counters
0.7 cu. ft. (compact listing) 17.91″ x 10.31″ x 12.28″ Tight shelves, 21.7 lb unit
1.1 cu. ft. (standard listing) 21.04″ x 11.18″ x 15.35″ Standard dinner plates, taller cookware
1.1 cu. ft. (alternate listing) 21″ x 11.1″ x 15.4″ Family reheating, wider cavity
1.1 cu. ft. (spec sheet) 20.3″ x 12.0″ x 14.8″ Deeper shelves, mixed cookware
Counter check Add door swing plus handle protrusion Verify fit before ordering

Does Cubic Feet Measure the Outside or the Inside?

Cubic feet measures cavity volume only — never the outside footprint. One 1.1 cubic feet spec sheet states that internal capacity is calculated from maximum interior width, depth, and height, and that the space for holding food is smaller than the nominal number. Treat cubic feet as a rough indicator of what fits inside; external dimensions decide whether the appliance fits your kitchen.

Once you’ve confirmed the footprint, our roundup of tested 0.7 to 1.1 cubic feet microwaves compares real models side by side.

Will a Regular Dinner Plate Fit in a 0.7 Cubic Feet Microwave?

Usually not a large one. A 0.7 cubic feet cavity typically spins a 9.6-inch turntable, so anything wider won’t rotate. A 1.1 cubic feet model carries a larger cavity, handling standard dinner plates and taller cookware.

Two traps catch buyers. First, assuming a 1.1 cubic feet unit is only slightly larger — width jumps from roughly 17–18 inches to about 21 inches. Second, forgetting the door: depth grows when it swings open, and handle protrusion can eat another inch, breaking a tight fit. A slightly oversized plate may not fit even when the rating sounds generous. Maytag’s microwave sizing guide walks through standard size ranges.

How Do You Measure Your Counter Before Buying?

Measure the open space, then subtract clearance for the door and handle. Check width, height, and depth where the microwave will sit — including any cabinet, shelf lip, or backsplash limiting the top and rear. Compare against the product page’s external dimensions, and confirm the door swings fully open without hitting a wall or appliance. Midea’s 0.7 cubic feet unit protects its 700W build with a 1-year warranty, but no warranty covers a microwave that never cleared the cabinet.

Match external dimensions first, then pick capacity. A 0.7 cubic feet model suits apartments, dorms, offices, and single-plate reheating. Step up to 1.1 cubic feet when standard dinner plates and taller cookware are daily routine.

FAQs

Is 0.7 cubic feet big enough for a frozen dinner?

Usually yes, if the tray is standard single-serve size. A 0.7 cubic feet cavity spins a turntable around 9.6 inches wide, so a typical frozen entree fits and rotates. Larger family-size trays need the extra cavity of a 1.1 cubic feet model.

How much wider is a 1.1 cubic feet microwave than a 0.7 cubic feet one?

Roughly three inches, and often more. The 0.7 cubic feet listings cluster around 17–18 inches wide, while 1.1 cubic feet units run about 21 inches wide and 15 inches deep. That gap can be the difference between fitting your counter and not.

Do I measure capacity or outer size when shopping?

Both, but outer size first. Cubic feet describes cavity volume inside, not the counter footprint. Measure available width, height, and depth — subtract room for the open door and protruding handle — before comparing external dimensions.

References & Sources