Commercial microwaves have become an essential appliance in both professional kitchens and busy households. Whether you’re running a restaurant, a café, or just love to cook at home, a commercial microwave can make your cooking experience quicker and more efficient.
This buying guide will walk you through everything you need to know before purchasing a commercial microwave, ensuring you make an informed decision that suits your needs.
Best Heavy Duty Commercial Microwave Reviews:
10. Frigidaire FFMV1846VD 30″ Over-the-Range Microwave Oven
Key Features
- 1.8 Cubic Feet Capacity: Offers ample space for large cookware and dishes, making it suitable for family-sized meals.
- 1000 Watts Power: Provides strong cooking performance with 10 power levels for versatile cooking options.
- Black Stainless Steel Finish: Stylish and modern design that complements various kitchen decors.
- One-Touch Options: Includes easy-to-use presets for common tasks like popcorn, baked potatoes, and a quick 30-second option.
- LED Lighting: Interior microwave LED lighting for clear visibility while cooking and checking food.
- 300 CFM Ventilation: Integrated vent hood with two fan speeds, helping to remove smoke, odors, and steam from the kitchen.
What We Like
- Spacious Interior: The 1.8 cu. ft. capacity is great for accommodating larger dishes and multiple servings.
- Easy to Use: One-touch buttons and an intuitive interface make it user-friendly.
- Stylish Appearance: The black stainless steel finish adds a sleek, modern look to the kitchen.
- Effective Ventilation: The 300 CFM ventilation system efficiently handles cooking fumes and steam.
- Durable Construction: Built with quality materials, ensuring longevity and durability.
What We Don’t Like
- Potential Durability Issues: Some users reported problems with durability and the microwave making a loud popping sound.
- Noise Level: A few users noted that the microwave can be noisy during operation.
- Installation Complexity: Over-the-range installation can be challenging, especially if replacing an older unit with different mounting requirements.
Overall
The Frigidaire FFMV1846VD Over-the-Range Microwave Oven combines ample cooking capacity with modern design and functionality. It offers a variety of cooking options, a spacious interior, and effective ventilation, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen. While it has some potential durability and noise concerns, its stylish appearance and user-friendly features make it a solid choice for those looking to upgrade their kitchen appliances.
9. KoolMore KM-CWO30-SS Built-in Microwave with Convection Oven and Air Fryer
Key Features
- Versatile Cooking Options: Combines microwave and convection oven modes, powered by 1000 watts, to handle a wide range of cooking tasks.
- Integrated Air Fryer: Features an air fryer function for healthier cooking with less oil, adding versatility to your kitchen.
- 1.6 Cubic Feet Capacity: Spacious interior accommodates larger dishes and multiple portions, ideal for various cooking needs.
- Built-In Installation: Designed for seamless integration into your kitchen cabinetry, providing a sleek and modern look.
- User-Friendly Control: Intuitive control panel for easy operation and precise cooking settings.
What We Like
- Multi-Functionality: Offers a combination of microwave, convection oven, and air fryer, providing a versatile cooking appliance.
- Large Capacity: The 1.6 cu. ft. capacity is ample for family meals and entertaining, fitting a variety of dish sizes.
- Stylish Design: Stainless steel construction adds a modern and professional look to the kitchen.
- Healthier Cooking: The air fryer function allows for healthier meals with less oil.
- Easy Maintenance: The manual clean type makes it straightforward to keep the unit clean and well-maintained.
What We Don’t Like
- High Price Point: More expensive than standard microwaves, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
- Complex Features: The multiple functionalities may require a learning curve for users unfamiliar with convection and air frying.
- Built-In Requirement: Requires installation, which may not be suitable for all kitchen setups or renters.
Overall
The KoolMore KM-CWO30-SS is a versatile and stylish built-in microwave that combines the functionalities of a microwave, convection oven, and air fryer. Its large capacity and user-friendly controls make it a practical choice for those looking to upgrade their kitchen with a multifunctional appliance.
While the higher price and installation requirements may be drawbacks, the added benefits of healthier cooking and a sleek design make it a worthwhile investment for modern kitchens.
8. Sharp R-21LTF Medium-Duty Commercial Microwave Oven
Key Features
- 1000 Watt Power: Provides efficient cooking with a 1.0 cubic feet capacity, ideal for commercial settings.
- Computerized Touch Controls: Features 20 programmable memories for consistent cooking and reheating.
- Double Quantity Pad: Automatically adjusts heating times for two portions, simplifying meal preparation.
- Express Defrost: Divides defrosting time into three stages, ensuring quick and even defrosting.
- Memory and Counter Check: Allows tracking of usage patterns and monitoring of operational efficiency.
What We Like
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel interior and exterior for durability and easy cleaning.
- User-Friendly Controls: The computerized touch controls with programmable memories simplify operation and ensure consistent results.
- Versatile Cooking Options: The double quantity pad and express defrost feature offer versatility in cooking and reheating.
- Efficient Performance: The 1000W power ensures fast and efficient cooking, suitable for busy commercial kitchens.
- Operational Monitoring: Memory Check and Counter Check features provide valuable insights into usage patterns, aiding in efficient kitchen management.
What We Don’t Like
- Higher Price Point: More expensive compared to some other commercial microwaves, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
- Complex Controls: The computerized touch controls may require a learning curve for some users.
- Partial Power Cycling: Some users report issues with partial power settings not maintaining consistent cooking levels.
Overall
The Sharp R-21LTF Medium-Duty Commercial Microwave Oven is a robust and efficient appliance designed for commercial kitchens. Its durable stainless steel construction, advanced touch controls, and versatile cooking features make it an excellent choice for busy environments. While it comes at a higher price and may have a learning curve for some users, its performance and reliability make it a valuable investment for consistent and efficient cooking.
7. Midea Equipment 1025F0A Countertop Commercial Microwave Oven
Key Features
- 1000 Watt Power: Efficient cooking performance, suitable for commercial use.
- 0.9 Cubic Feet Capacity: Medium capacity, accommodating a 12-inch platter.
- Stainless Steel Construction: Durable and easy to clean, with a professional appearance.
- Dial Timer: Features a 6-minute electronic dial timer with illuminated digits and an “Auto Reset” feature.
- No Turntable Design: Utilizes a bottom rotating antenna for even cooking without the need for a turntable.
What We Like
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel exterior and interior ensure longevity and easy maintenance.
- User-Friendly: Simple dial control makes it easy to operate, ideal for high-turnover environments.
- Compact Size: Suitable for small spaces, yet capable of handling a variety of dishes.
- Even Cooking: The bottom rotating antenna provides even heating, eliminating the need for a turntable.
- Affordability: Relatively lower price point compared to other commercial-grade microwaves.
What We Don’t Like
- Limited Power Settings: Full power only, which may not be suitable for all cooking needs.
- Noise Level: Some users find the fan noise during and after cooking to be somewhat loud.
- No Advanced Features: Lacks features like sensor cooking or programmable settings.
Overall
The Midea Equipment 1025F0A Countertop Commercial Microwave Oven is a reliable and durable option for commercial kitchens and busy households. Its simple dial control, stainless steel construction, and even cooking capabilities make it a practical choice. While it lacks advanced features and has some noise concerns, its affordability and ease of use make it a strong contender for those seeking a straightforward and effective microwave solution.
6. Amana Commercial HDC12A2 Heavy-Duty Microwave Oven
Key Features
- 1200 Watt Power: Provides strong cooking performance suitable for commercial environments.
- 0.6 Cubic Feet Capacity: Compact yet spacious enough for typical commercial kitchen tasks.
- Stainless Steel Construction: Durable and easy to clean, ideal for high-usage settings.
- Touch Controller: Simple operation with a 1-10 keypad for quick access to commonly used functions.
- No Turntable Design: Offers more space inside and easier cleaning, suitable for large or odd-shaped dishes.
What We Like
- Durable and Robust: Built to withstand the rigors of commercial use, with a strong door and stainless steel construction.
- Simple and Efficient Operation: The touch controller and no-turntable design streamline the cooking process.
- Even Heating: Designed to heat food evenly without the need for a turntable.
- Made in the USA: Offers the quality assurance associated with American manufacturing.
- Safety Features: Equipped with an NEMA 5-20P plug, which helps prevent overloading standard circuits.
What We Don’t Like
- High Price Point: More expensive compared to other commercial microwaves, which may be a consideration for some buyers.
- Limited Features: Lacks advanced features like sensor cooking, which can be found in consumer-grade microwaves.
- Size Consideration: Although compact, the microwave is long (20 inches), which may not fit in all kitchen spaces.
Overall
The Amana Commercial HDC12A2 is a solid choice for commercial kitchens looking for a durable, efficient, and easy-to-use microwave. Its stainless steel construction and simple touch controls make it ideal for heavy-duty use, while the no-turntable design allows for easy cleaning and accommodates larger dishes.
However, its higher price and lack of advanced features may make it less appealing to those looking for more versatile options or on a budget. This microwave is best suited for businesses that require reliable and consistent performance.
5. Midea Equipment 2117G1A Commercial Microwave
Key Features
- 2100 Watt Power: High power output for fast and efficient cooking, ideal for commercial use.
- Large Capacity: 0.6 cubic feet capacity, accommodates a 12’’ platter, perfect for restaurants and food service environments.
- Programmable Settings: Features 11 power levels, 3 cooking stages, and up to 100 programmable menu items, customizable via USB port.
- Durable Design: Stainless steel construction, including the interior and exterior, ensuring durability and easy cleaning.
- EZ Grab & Go Door Handle: Reliable design with no moving parts, providing ease of use and longevity.
What We Like
- Powerful Cooking Performance: The 2100W power and dual magnetrons ensure quick and even cooking without the need for a turntable.
- Customizable and User-Friendly: The programmable settings and USB port make it easy to standardize cooking processes across multiple locations.
- Durable and Easy to Clean: Stainless steel build with removable splatter shield and air intake filter simplifies maintenance.
- Compact and Stackable: Its compact design and stackable feature make it suitable for kitchens with limited space.
- Enhanced Accessibility: Braille navigation on touchpads, catering to visually impaired users.
What We Don’t Like
- High Price Point: The unit is relatively expensive compared to other commercial microwaves.
- Limited Capacity: With a 0.6 cubic feet capacity, it may not be suitable for larger dishes or high-volume cooking needs.
- Complexity for Basic Use: The extensive programmability may be more than needed for simple reheating tasks.
Overall
The Midea Equipment 2117G1A Commercial Microwave is a high-performance appliance designed for commercial kitchens. Its powerful cooking capabilities, customizable settings, and durable construction make it a reliable choice for restaurants and food service environments.
However, its higher price and relatively small capacity may be considerations for some buyers. This microwave is best suited for establishments that require consistent, quick cooking and have specific menu standardization needs.
4. Winco EMW-1000ST Commercial-Grade Microwave Oven
Key Features
- 1000 Watt Power: Delivers efficient cooking performance with a 0.9 cubic foot capacity.
- Stainless Steel Construction: Durable exterior and interior, designed for daily use in commercial environments.
- 5 Power Levels: Offers flexibility with multiple power settings for a variety of dishes.
- Custom Programs: Includes 10 preset cooking programs and the ability to store up to 100 custom programs.
- 2x Quantity Button: Allows for easy adjustment of cooking programs for multiple portions.
What We Like
- User-Friendly: The microwave is straightforward to operate with a button control interface.
- Durable Design: Stainless steel build ensures longevity and easy maintenance.
- Space-Saving: Compact design suitable for smaller spaces, with a 0.9 cubic foot capacity.
- Customizable Cooking: Custom programs offer flexibility for different menu items, ideal for commercial settings.
- Heavy-Duty Use: Built to withstand the demands of quick-serve restaurants and concession stands.
What We Don’t Like
- Noise Level: Some users report that the microwave can be noisy during operation.
- No Turntable: Lacks a turntable, which may affect even heating for certain dishes.
Overall
The Winco EMW-1000ST is a solid choice for commercial kitchens or busy households that require a reliable and efficient microwave oven. Its stainless steel construction and customizable cooking options make it a versatile appliance. While it may have some noise and durability concerns, its ease of use and heavy-duty design are significant advantages.
This microwave is particularly well-suited for those who need a compact, efficient solution for quick and consistent cooking.
3. Sharp R-21LCFS Medium Duty Commercial Microwave
Key Features
- 1000 Watt Power: Efficient cooking with 1.0 cubic feet capacity.
- Dial Timer: Simple operation with a classic dial timer, adjustable from 10 seconds to 6 minutes, with bright LED indicators.
- Auto-Cancel Timer: Cancels remaining time when the door is opened, saving energy and extending the magnetron’s life.
- Stainless Steel Construction: Durable exterior and interior, easy to clean, with a professional appearance.
- Heating Time Guide: Convenient reference located above the timer for popular food heating times.
What We Like
- Easy to Use: The dial timer is intuitive and simple, ideal for quick operation.
- Durable Design: Stainless steel construction ensures longevity and ease of maintenance.
- Energy Efficient: The auto-cancel feature helps conserve energy and prolongs the lifespan of the microwave components.
- Spacious Interior: The 1.0 cubic feet capacity can handle larger platters and prepackaged foods, making it versatile for commercial use.
- No Turntable: Simplifies cleaning and reduces maintenance, while still providing even heating.
What We Don’t Like
- Limited Timer Range: The maximum timer setting is 6 minutes, which may be insufficient for some cooking tasks.
- Basic Features: Lacks advanced features such as programmable settings or multi-stage cooking options.
Overall
The Sharp R-21LCFS is a reliable and sturdy commercial microwave, ideal for medium-duty applications. Its straightforward design, durable construction, and energy-saving features make it a practical choice for businesses and busy households. While it doesn’t offer advanced features, its simplicity and durability are significant advantages, making it a great value for those looking for a dependable and easy-to-use microwave.
2. Sharp R-21LCFS Medium-Duty Commercial Microwave Oven
Key Features
- 1000 Watt Power: Efficient cooking with a 1.0 cubic feet capacity, accommodating a 13-1/2” platter.
- Dial Timer: Simple operation with a classic dial timer, adjustable from 10 seconds to 6 minutes, featuring bright LED indicators for easy monitoring.
- Auto-Cancel Timer: Automatically cancels the remaining time when the door is opened, saving energy and extending the magnetron’s lifespan.
- Stainless Steel Construction: Both the exterior and interior are made of stainless steel, providing durability and easy maintenance.
- Heating Time Guide: Includes a handy reference for popular food heating times located above the timer.
What We Like
- User-Friendly Design: The dial timer and LED indicators make this microwave simple and intuitive to use.
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel build ensures longevity and a professional appearance.
- Energy Efficient: The auto-cancel timer feature prevents unnecessary energy usage and prolongs the magnetron’s life.
- Spacious Interior: The 1.0 cu. ft. capacity can handle large platters and prepackaged foods, ideal for commercial use.
- Easy to Clean: The stainless steel interior and exterior make cleaning straightforward and hassle-free.
What We Don’t Like
- Limited Timer Range: The timer only goes up to 6 minutes, which may not be sufficient for some cooking tasks.
- No Advanced Features: Lacks advanced features like programmable settings or multi-stage cooking options.
Overall
The Sharp R-21LCFS is a reliable and durable commercial microwave oven, ideal for medium-duty applications. Its user-friendly design, energy-efficient features, and stainless steel construction make it a solid choice for commercial kitchens. While it lacks some advanced features, its simplicity and effectiveness in basic tasks make it a valuable addition to any commercial setting.
1. Panasonic Consumer NE1054F 1000 Watt Commercial Microwave Oven
Key Features
- 1000 Watt Power: Efficient and quick heating with a 0.8 cubic feet capacity.
- Bottom Energy Feed System: Maximizes efficiency by minimizing the distance microwaves travel, ensuring faster cooking.
- No-Turntable Design: Provides more space and ease of cleaning.
- Touch-Control Keypad with Braille: Features 10 programmable memory pads, 20-memory capability, 6 power levels, and a 99:99-minute timer.
- Grab & Go Door Handle: A hassle-free design that ensures smooth operation without moving parts.
- Stainless Steel Construction: Durable and stylish, suitable for commercial and heavy home use.
- Compact Size: Occupies minimal countertop space with dimensions of 13″ x 16″ x 13″.
What We Like
- High Efficiency: The bottom energy feed system ensures quick and even heating, perfect for high-volume usage.
- Durable Design: Stainless steel construction provides durability, making it ideal for commercial settings.
- Easy to Use: The touch-control keypad is user-friendly, with programmable settings for convenience.
- Accessible Design: Braille on the keypad enhances accessibility for visually impaired users.
- Easy to Clean: The no-turntable design simplifies cleaning and maintenance.
What We Don’t Like
- No Turntable: Some users may miss the even cooking provided by a rotating turntable.
- Loud Beeping: The microwave emits a loud beep when cooking is complete, which may be annoying to some users.
Overall
The Panasonic NE1054F is a powerful and efficient commercial microwave oven, well-suited for both commercial and heavy home use. Its bottom energy feed system and stainless steel construction offer durability and efficiency, while the user-friendly keypad and compact design make it a versatile addition to any kitchen. The lack of a turntable and the loud beeping are minor drawbacks in an otherwise excellent product.
Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Heavy Duty Commercial Microwave
Things to Consider
Power and Wattage
- 1000 to 2100 Watts: The power level of a microwave significantly affects cooking speed and efficiency. For commercial use, consider microwaves with at least 1000 watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking and better heat distribution.
Capacity
- 0.6 to 1.8 Cubic Feet: The capacity determines how much food you can cook at once. For larger dishes or multiple servings, a microwave with a capacity of 1.0 cubic feet or more is ideal.
Features and Functions
- Versatile Cooking Options: Look for microwaves that offer a range of functions, including convection cooking, air frying, and express defrost. These features provide more cooking flexibility and can replace multiple kitchen appliances.
- Programmable Settings: Microwaves with programmable settings allow you to save cooking times and power levels for your favorite dishes, making meal preparation faster and more consistent.
- Safety Features: Safety locks, auto-cancel timers, and child locks are important for preventing accidents, especially in busy commercial kitchens.
Construction and Design
- Stainless Steel Build: Durable and easy to clean, stainless steel is the preferred material for commercial microwaves. It ensures the appliance withstands heavy use and maintains a professional appearance.
- No Turntable Design: Many commercial microwaves feature a no-turntable design, which allows for more cooking space and easier cleaning.
Ease of Use and Installation
- User-Friendly Controls: Touchpad controls and digital displays make microwaves easier to operate, particularly for those unfamiliar with more complex functions.
- Installation Type: Depending on your kitchen setup, you may need an over-the-range microwave or a countertop model. Consider the space available and the ventilation needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Commercial microwaves are designed for heavy-duty use and often have higher wattage, larger capacities, and more durable construction compared to regular microwaves. They also typically feature more advanced cooking options and programmable settings.
Higher wattage microwaves cook food faster and more evenly, making them ideal for commercial settings or households that frequently cook large meals.
Yes, commercial microwaves can be used at home, especially if you need the additional power and features they offer. However, they may require more counter space and a dedicated circuit due to their higher power consumption.
Regular cleaning is essential to maintain your microwave’s efficiency and longevity. Use a damp cloth and mild detergent to clean the interior and exterior. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for any specific maintenance requirements.
First, check if the microwave is properly plugged in and if the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. If these are not the issues, consult the warranty information or contact the manufacturer for repair or replacement options.
Conclusion
Choosing the right commercial microwave involves considering your specific cooking needs, the microwave’s features, and its capacity. Whether you’re looking for a model with basic functionality or advanced cooking options, the right microwave can make meal preparation more efficient and enjoyable.
With the information in this guide, you’re now equipped to choose the best commercial microwave for your kitchen. Happy cooking!
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