When your kitchen needs are straightforward, a reliable microwave is an essential workhorse. Bella offers a range of models that focus on core functionality without complicated features or a high price tag. Whether you’re reheating leftovers, popping popcorn, or quickly cooking a frozen meal, these microwaves are designed to get the job done efficiently.
This roundup focuses on the best Bella microwaves for basic, everyday use. We’ve selected models across different sizes and power levels to help you find the perfect fit for your countertop, dorm room, or apartment. From compact units for solo diners to family-sized options, there’s a Bella microwave ready to simplify your daily routine.
The Best Bella Microwaves for Everyday Cooking
- Bella 1000-Watt Family Sized Digital Microwave Oven
- Bella 700-Watt Compact Digital Microwave Oven
- Bella 900-Watt Microwave Oven, Red with Chrome
- Farberware Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts, 1.6 cu ft
- Bella Pro Series 1.1 Cu. Ft. 900W Countertop Microwave
- Bella Pro Series 1.5 Cu. Ft. 1000W Countertop Microwave
- Bella Pro Series 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700W Compact Microwave
- Bella Pro Series 2.2 Cu. Ft. 1200W Sensor Microwave
Bella 1000-Watt Family Sized Digital Microwave Oven
This 1.1 cubic foot microwave is an excellent choice for households that need to heat larger portions. With 1000 watts of cooking power, it can handle everything from reheating multiple plates to cooking frozen vegetables quickly. The digital controls are straightforward, featuring an LED clock and a separate kitchen timer.
For everyday convenience, it includes 1-6 minute Express Cook controls and a handy +30 second button. The six Quick Start one-touch cooking functions simplify preparing common foods, making it a user-friendly appliance for busy families.
Bella 700-Watt Compact Digital Microwave Oven
Ideal for small spaces like dorm rooms, offices, or apartments, this compact microwave offers 0.7 cubic feet of capacity. Its 700-watt output is sufficient for most basic tasks like warming a beverage or a single serving of food. The digital interface keeps operation simple with an integrated timer and clock.
You get the same convenient Express Cook and +30 second controls as larger models, along with six one-touch options. This unit proves that you don’t need a large footprint to have a fully functional microwave.
Bella 900-Watt Microwave Oven, Red with Chrome
This model adds a splash of style to your kitchen with its vibrant red finish and chromed handle. It provides a balanced 900 watts of power within a 0.9-cubic-foot interior, a great mid-size option. The six dedicated one-touch buttons for popcorn, potato, pizza, and more take the guesswork out of cooking times.
A particularly useful feature is the multi-stage cooking function, which allows you to program the microwave to change power levels midway through the cooking cycle. This is perfect for recipes that require starting at a high power and finishing at a lower one.
Farberware Countertop Microwave 1100 Watts, 1.6 cu ft
For those needing substantial power and capacity, this 1100-watt microwave with a 1.6 cubic foot interior is a strong contender. It’s designed as a small-space solution that doesn’t compromise on performance. The smart sensor technology can automatically adjust cooking time and power, which is a step up in convenience.
It includes ten power levels, multi-stage cooking, and six one-touch options for everyday items. Additional features like a child safety lock and easy-clean surfaces make it a practical and powerful addition to any kitchen.
Bella Pro Series 1.1 Cu. Ft. 900W Countertop Microwave
This Pro Series model offers a great balance of size and power for everyday use. The 900-watt output and 1.1 cubic foot capacity are well-suited for small to medium-sized families. It’s designed to handle a standard dinner plate with ease, making reheating meals simple.
The straightforward controls ensure you can start cooking without a learning curve. As part of the Pro Series, it is built for reliability and daily use, providing consistent performance for all your basic microwave needs.
Bella Pro Series 1.5 Cu. Ft. 1000W Countertop Microwave
Step up in capacity with this 1.5 cubic foot model, which provides ample space for larger dishes and containers. The 1000 watts of power ensure fast and even cooking, reducing wait times for your meals. This is an ideal choice for families or anyone who frequently entertains.
The larger interior is versatile enough for a big casserole dish or multiple items at once. With its robust power and spacious cavity, this microwave is built to handle a higher volume of daily cooking tasks efficiently.
Bella Pro Series 0.7 Cu. Ft. 700W Compact Countertop Microwave
Maximizing efficiency in a minimal footprint, this compact Pro Series microwave is perfect for personal use. Its 0.7 cubic foot interior and 700-watt power output are tailored for heating single servings, snacks, and beverages. The unit is designed to fit comfortably on a small countertop or desk.
Despite its small size, it doesn’t skip on functionality, offering the essential features needed for quick meal preparation. It’s a reliable and space-saving solution for anyone living alone or with limited kitchen space.
Bella Pro Series 2.2 Cu. Ft. 1200W Sensor Microwave
This is the powerhouse of the lineup, featuring 1200 watts of power and a generous 2.2 cubic foot capacity. It’s designed for users who need the most power and space available for larger cooking projects. The sensor cooking technology automatically adjusts time and power based on the steam detected from your food.
This feature takes the guesswork out of cooking, helping to prevent overcooking and ensuring consistent results. For those with advanced needs who still want a simple interface, this model offers high-end performance in a user-friendly package.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Bella Microwave for Basic Needs
When I look for a microwave for simple, everyday tasks, I focus on a few key things that make a real difference in my kitchen. Bella microwaves are known for being straightforward and affordable, which is perfect for someone who just needs to heat up leftovers, make some popcorn, or warm a morning beverage. Here’s what I consider to be the most important factors when picking one out for my basic needs.
First, I always check the size and capacity. This is about two things: how much counter space it will take up and how much food it can hold inside. For a single person or a couple, a compact model around 0.7 cubic feet is usually plenty. It heats a mug of water or a plate of food perfectly without hogging my entire kitchen counter. If I’m cooking for a family, I’d lean towards a larger 1.1 or 1.2 cubic foot model. This size can fit a standard dinner plate more comfortably and handle larger dishes.
Next, I look at the power, measured in watts. For basic reheating and defrosting, a microwave with 700 to 900 watts is the sweet spot. A 700-watt unit gets the job done, though it might take a little longer. A 900-watt microwave will heat things faster and more evenly. I don’t need a professional-grade powerhouse, but I don’t want to wait forever for my lunch to be ready either. This wattage range is ideal for the core tasks I use it for.
The control panel is another big one for me. I prefer simplicity. A model with a simple dial timer is incredibly easy to use—just turn the knob to the desired time and press start. It doesn’t get more basic than that. Other models have digital touchpads with pre-programmed buttons for things like popcorn, potatoes, and beverages. These are handy shortcuts that take the guesswork out of cooking times. I think about which style feels more intuitive for me on a daily basis.
Finally, I consider the interior. A stainless steel interior is easier to clean and more durable, but it often comes with a slightly higher price tag. Many budget-friendly models have a painted interior that works just fine as long as I wipe up spills quickly. I also make sure the turntable is a good size and rotates smoothly to ensure even heating. By focusing on these practical aspects—size, power, controls, and interior—I can easily find one of the best Bella microwaves for my basic needs without any fuss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Bella microwaves reliable for daily use?
From my experience, yes, Bella microwaves are quite reliable for everyday tasks. They are designed to handle the common jobs you throw at them day in and day out, like reheating coffee, warming up meals, and popping popcorn. They aren’t overly complicated machines, which often means there are fewer parts that can break. For their price point, they offer solid performance for basic needs. As with any appliance, taking good care of it, like keeping it clean and not slamming the door, will help it last for years.
What is the average lifespan of a Bella microwave?
You can generally expect a Bella microwave to last for several years with normal use. While high-end, more expensive brands might last a decade or more, a Bella microwave typically has a lifespan that aligns with its budget-friendly nature. I’d say a reasonable expectation is around 5 to 7 years. This can vary based on how often you use it and how well you maintain it. Using it for its intended purpose—basic heating and cooking—and not overloading it will give you the best chance at a long service life.
How do I clean my Bella microwave effectively?
Cleaning my Bella microwave is a simple process. My go-to method is to place a microwave-safe bowl filled with water and a few slices of lemon inside. I then run it on high for about three to five minutes, until the window is steamy. I let it sit for another minute or two before carefully removing the bowl. The steam will have loosened any baked-on food splatters, so I can just wipe the interior down with a soft cloth. For the turntable, I usually just wash it with warm, soapy water in the sink.
Can I use metal or aluminum foil in a Bella microwave?
No, you should never put metal or aluminum foil in any microwave, including a Bella model. Metal reflects microwaves, which can cause sparks and potentially start a fire. It can also seriously damage the interior of the microwave. Always use microwave-safe containers made of glass, ceramic, or plastic that is labeled as microwave-safe. If you are reheating something with a foil wrapper, always remove it completely before you start the microwave.
Why is my Bella microwave not heating food properly?
If your Bella microwave isn’t heating food well, there are a few common things to check. First, make sure you’ve selected the correct power level; sometimes it can get accidentally set to a low setting like “Defrost” instead of “High.” Second, check that the turntable is rotating freely and isn’t blocked by a large or unevenly shaped dish. If those things seem fine, the magnetron (the part that creates the microwaves) might be failing. In that case, given the cost of repair versus replacement, it might be more practical to look for a new one, especially when considering the best Bella microwaves for basic needs are quite affordable.
Do Bella microwaves come with a warranty?
Yes, Bella microwaves typically come with a limited manufacturer’s warranty. The exact length and terms can vary by model and retailer, but it’s common to see a one-year warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. I always make sure to register my appliance online after purchase and keep my receipt. The warranty usually doesn’t cover damage from misuse or accidents, but it does provide peace of mind if something goes wrong under normal use during the covered period.