What Wattage Microwave Do I Need? A Complete Buyer's Guide

When buying a microwave, wattage is one of the most important specs to consider — and one of the most commonly misunderstood. Here's what microwave wattage actually means, how it affects cooking performance, and which wattage is right for your household.

What Does Microwave Wattage Mean?

Wattage measures the microwave's power output — how much energy it delivers to your food during cooking. A higher wattage microwave heats food faster and more evenly than a lower wattage model.

Household microwaves in Australia typically range from 700W to 1200W. Commercial microwaves can go higher, but for home use this is the standard range you'll encounter.

How Wattage Affects Cooking Time

Recipe instructions and food packaging often assume an 800W or 1000W microwave. If your microwave has different wattage, cooking times need to be adjusted:

• 700W — about 30% longer than a 1000W recipe
• 800W — about 20% longer than a 1000W recipe
• 900W — about 10% longer than a 1000W recipe
• 1000W — matches most standard recipe timings
• 1100–1200W — 10–20% shorter than a 1000W recipe

High-wattage microwaves also heat more evenly, with less risk of cold spots in the centre of food.

What Wattage Is Right for My Household?

700–800W: Basic Use and Small Households

A 700–800W microwave is suitable for reheating leftovers, defrosting food and making simple dishes. It takes longer than higher-wattage models and may leave cold spots in denser foods. Best suited for single-person households or supplementary kitchen use.

900–1000W: The Most Common Household Choice

Most Australian households are well served by a 900–1000W microwave. This wattage range handles everyday tasks — reheating, defrosting, cooking vegetables, making porridge — quickly and evenly. The majority of microwaves sold in Australia fall in this category.

1100–1200W: Heavy Use and Faster Cooking

High-wattage microwaves are worth considering if you cook frequently in the microwave, regularly cook large quantities, or want the fastest possible results. Combination microwaves (microwave + convection oven or grill) often operate at this wattage. They're also the best choice if you use microwave steam cooking or multi-stage programs.

Does a Higher Wattage Microwave Use More Power?

Yes, but not as much as you might think. A 1200W microwave uses more power per minute than an 800W model, but it cooks faster — so the total electricity used per meal is often similar. The difference in running costs between a 700W and a 1200W microwave is typically negligible for most households.

Other Specs to Consider Alongside Wattage

• Capacity (litres) — from 17L compact units to 45L+ family models
• Turntable diameter — larger turntables allow bigger plates and dishes
• Inverter technology — delivers power continuously rather than cycling on and off, for more even cooking
• Combination function — adds convection baking or grill to the microwave for more versatile cooking

Which Microwave Should You Buy?

For most households, a 900–1000W microwave with a 25–30L capacity offers the best balance of performance, speed and size. For larger families or more frequent cooking, go for 1100W+ and consider a combination model for extra versatility.

Oceania Appliances stocks microwaves across all wattage levels and capacities from leading brands. Visit our showroom at 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park or call 0400 983 352 for a recommendation.