Microwave timer
A free microwave timer that loads two minutes, the length of most reheats. Your microwave has its own timer, but it stops counting the moment the door opens. A second timer on the counter handles the standing time, the next burst, and whatever is on the stove at the same time. Also searched as 2 minute microwave timer, reheat timer, kitchen timer.
Common microwave times
For a 1000 watt microwave at full power. Lower-wattage models need more time, and every model heats a little differently.
| Task | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Reheat a plate of food | 1 to 2 minutes | Stir halfway, then stand 1 minute |
| Cup of water for tea | 1 to 2 minutes | Let it stand 30 seconds before adding a tea bag |
| Frozen vegetables | 3 to 5 minutes | Covered, with a spoonful of water |
| Popcorn | 2 to 4 minutes | Stop when pops are 2 seconds apart; see the 90 second timer for small bags |
| Soften butter | 10 to 15 second bursts | Turn the stick between bursts |
| Standing time | 1 to 2 minutes | Heat keeps spreading after the microwave stops |
Why standing time matters
Microwaves heat unevenly. The minute or two after the beep lets the hot spots share heat with the cold ones, which is why packaging asks you to wait. Set the 1 minute timer when the microwave stops, and the food is ready when it rings.
Staged heating with Repeat
- Set 15 or 30 seconds and tick Repeat.
- Run the microwave for one burst, stir, and start the next when the alarm sounds.
- Press R to stop the loop when the food is hot through.
Reheating something bigger? The 2 minute timer is the same preset without the microwave notes. Stovetop and oven times live on the cooking timer hub.
Frequently asked questions
Why would I need a timer for a microwave?
For the standing time after heating, for staged heating in short bursts, and for things cooking on the stove while the microwave is busy.
How long does it take to microwave a cup of water?
One to two minutes for a typical mug at full power. Let it stand for 30 seconds before adding anything, because water heated in a smooth cup can erupt when disturbed.
Can I repeat the same short burst?
Yes. Set 15 seconds, tick Repeat, and stir or check at every alarm. Press Reset when you are done.
All timers
- 1 minute timer
- 2 minute timer
- 3 minute timer
- 4 minute timer
- 5 minute timer
- 10 minute timer
- 15 minute timer
- 20 minute timer
- 25 minute timer
- 30 minute timer
- 45 minute timer
- 1 hour timer
- 2 hour timer
- Pomodoro timer
- Countdown timer
- Stopwatch
- Timer clock
- Egg timer
- Interval timer
- Tabata timer
- Nap timer
- All timers →