Microwave Wattage Converter
Recipes rarely match your microwave. Adjust cook times for any wattage so meals come out hot—not overcooked or cold.
Check the cooking instructions—most list the microwave wattage used.
Look inside the door frame or owner's manual to find your microwave wattage.
Adjusted Cooking Time
4 minutes 53 seconds
Original time × (1100 ÷ 900) = 4m 53s
Quick Insights
Your microwave runs at about 82% of the recipe power.
Time difference: 22.2% longer than listed instructions.
Let food stand for at least 45 seconds so heat equalizes.
Common Wattage Conversions
600 W microwave
Use power level about 150% to mimic your oven.
700 W microwave
Use power level about 129% to mimic your oven.
800 W microwave
Use power level about 113% to mimic your oven.
900 W microwave
Use power level about 100% to mimic your oven.
1000 W microwave
Use power level about 90% to mimic your oven.
1200 W microwave
Use power level about 75% to mimic your oven.
How to Use This Calculator
Grab the recipe details
Enter the wattage and cook time shown on the recipe, frozen meal box, or instructions booklet.
Add your microwave wattage
Type the wattage printed inside your microwave door frame or in the spec sheet.
Cook with confidence
Follow the adjusted cook time and let the food rest so heat spreads evenly.
Formula
New Time = Original Time × (Recipe Wattage ÷ Your Wattage)
Power Percentage = (Your Wattage ÷ Recipe Wattage) × 100%
Example: Package uses 1100 W for 4:00. Your 900 W microwave needs 4:53.
Reverse example: Have a 1200 W oven but instructions are for 1000 W? Multiply 5:00 × (1000 ÷ 1200) ≈ 4:10.
Why Adjust Microwave Wattage?
Microwaves don't all heat at the same pace. Newer models often exceed 1100 W, while compact units might be 600–800 W. Adjusting time keeps food safe and prevents rubbery edges or cold centers.
Best Practices
- Stir halfway through long heating times to avoid hot spots.
- If your microwave lacks low power settings, pause midway to mimic lower wattage.
- Let dense foods rest longer—standing time finishes the cook.
- Use a microwave-safe thermometer to confirm reheating reaches 165°F (74°C).
Common wattage ranges
- 600–700 W: Dorm and RV microwaves—plan for longer cook times.
- 800–1000 W: Mid-range household units.
- 1100–1250 W: High-powered standard-size models.
- 1400 W+ Inverter: Commercial or convection combos; shorten times carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my microwave wattage isn't listed?
Try the official manual or look up the model number online. You can also test by timing how long it takes to boil one cup of water.
Can I just change the power level?
Yes—set the power percentage shown by the calculator. For example, if yours is 80% of the recipe wattage, use 80% power at the original time.
What about inverter microwaves?
They deliver continuous power instead of pulsing. The formula still works—just expect smoother heating at reduced power levels.
Do I need to adjust defrost times?
Yes, especially for delicate items. Lower wattage microwaves take longer—use the converter to avoid partially thawed food.