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Best Medium Size Microwave
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The microwave is an indispensable workhorse in the modern kitchen, handling everything from reheating leftovers to defrosting ingredients for dinner. For many households, the medium size category offers the perfect balance of capacity and counter-space efficiency.

But with countless options available, making the right choice is essential for long-term satisfaction. This guide is dedicated to navigating the crowded market to identify the best medium size microwave.

We cut through the technical jargon to focus on what truly matters: reliability, consistent performance, and overall value. Our goal is to empower you to find the best medium size microwave that seamlessly integrates into your daily routine and meets your culinary demands.

Top 10 Best Medium Size Microwave Compared

SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6🏆 BEST OVERALL SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6" Carousel Turntable
  • Modern design with stainless finish and LED lighting.
  • User-friendly one-touch controls like '+30 seconds' and 'Express Cook'.
  • Compact size is ideal for smaller kitchens and limited counter space.
  • Carousel turntable ensures even cooking and reheating.
★★★★
4.8/5 Check Price on Amazon
TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft

🥈 2ND RUNNER UP TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft

  • Smart sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power.
  • Versatile cooking options with 6 presets and 10 power levels.
  • Convenient one-touch start for quick operation.
  • Mute function allows for silent operation.
★★★★
4.5/5 Check Price on Amazon
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door

� BEST VALUE BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door

  • Compact footprint is ideal for small kitchens or dorms.
  • Easy-to-read control panel with a large digital display.
  • Convenient one-touch presets and a 30-second express cook button.
  • Includes a child safety lock for household peace of mind.
★★★★
4.4/5 Check Price on Amazon
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

  • Compact design is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
  • User-friendly digital controls with helpful presets and a +30 seconds button.
  • Includes convenient features like a mute function and child safety lock.
  • Offers 10 distinct power levels for cooking versatility.
★★★★
4.3/5 Check Price on Amazon
Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor

Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor

  • Very spacious 2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity fits large dishes.
  • High 1200W power ensures fast and even heating.
  • Built-in humidity sensor prevents food from drying out.
  • Specific auto-defrost programs for meat, poultry, and fish.
★★★★
4.5/5 Check Price on Amazon
TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable

TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable

  • Powerful 1200W heating with a large 1.6 cu. ft. capacity.
  • Helpful sensor menus for automatically cooking popular foods.
  • Unique position-memory turntable returns to its starting point.
  • Option to mute the buzzer for quiet operation.
★★★★
4.5/5 Check Price on Amazon
BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door

BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door

  • Intuitive control panel with a large digital display.
  • Useful one-touch cooking presets and a 30-second express option.
  • Includes a child safety lock for added security.
  • Compact footprint is ideal for smaller countertops and spaces.
★★★★
4.6/5 Check Price on Amazon
COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off

COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off

  • Two-step child lock for enhanced safety.
  • Mute function allows for silent operation.
  • Convenient one-touch express cooking and auto-cook presets.
  • Energy-saving ECO mode to reduce standby power consumption.
★★★★
4.4/5 Check Price on Amazon
Farberware FMWO11AHTBKB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Stee

Farberware FMWO11AHTBKB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Stee

  • 1000 watts of power with 10 adjustable levels for cooking flexibility.
  • Convenient one-touch presets and express cooking controls (1-6 min).
  • Compact 1.1 cu. ft. size is ideal for smaller spaces.
  • Clear LED display with a kitchen timer and clock.
★★★★
4.3/5 Check Price on Amazon
TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology

TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology

  • Spacious interior with a large turntable fits bigger dishes.
  • Inverter technology provides consistent and even cooking.
  • Smart sensor menus simplify heating common foods.
  • Ability to mute the buzzer sound is a convenient feature.
★★★★
4.6/5 Check Price on Amazon

Detailed Reviews of the Best Medium Size Microwave

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft - Smart sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power.

TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft

This 1000-watt countertop microwave provides a solid range of features for daily kitchen tasks. The smart sensor technology is a key highlight, designed to automatically adjust cooking parameters based on humidity, which helps prevent over or undercooking. It comes equipped with six common food presets and ten distinct power levels, offering good flexibility for various meals.

The one-touch start for 1-6 minutes is convenient for quick heating, and the defrost functions work by either weight or time. A particularly thoughtful feature is the mute mode, which silences the end-of-cycle beeps—a nice touch for households with sleeping children or those sensitive to noise. The 12.4-inch turntable is a standard size, accommodating most dinner plates without issue.

Overall, it's a well-rounded appliance that balances automated features with manual control, making it a functional addition to most kitchens.

Pros

  • Smart sensor cooking automatically adjusts time and power.
  • Versatile cooking options with 6 presets and 10 power levels.
  • Convenient one-touch start for quick operation.
  • Mute function allows for silent operation.
  • Two defrost modes (by time or weight) for flexibility.
  • Standard 12.4-inch turntable fits most dinner plates.

Cons

  • The 1600W input power is relatively high for a 1000W output unit.
  • Sensor cooking performance may vary with different types of food.

BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door - Compact footprint is ideal for small kitchens or dorms.

BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door

This 700-watt microwave offers a solid set of features for everyday use, particularly in smaller kitchens or dorm rooms. It comes with 10 distinct power levels, allowing for more precise cooking than basic models. The control panel is straightforward, featuring a large LED display and pre-programmed buttons for common items like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza, which adds a layer of convenience.

The 30-second express cooking function is useful for quick reheating. Inside, it has a 10-inch removable glass turntable and an interior light, making it easy to monitor food and clean up. Safety features include a child lock, and the push-button door release operates smoothly.

Its compact dimensions (17.3” x 13.0” x 10.2”) make it a good fit for countertops with limited space. While it's not the most powerful unit, it handles basic heating and defrosting tasks competently.

Pros

  • Compact footprint is ideal for small kitchens or dorms.
  • Easy-to-read control panel with a large digital display.
  • Convenient one-touch presets and a 30-second express cook button.
  • Includes a child safety lock for household peace of mind.
  • Ten adjustable power levels provide flexible cooking control.

Cons

  • At 700 watts, cooking times may be longer than higher-powered models.
  • The 10-inch turntable may not accommodate larger dinner plates or dishes.

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft. - Compact design is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.

Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft.

This Chefman microwave is a well-rounded, compact appliance that handles essential daily tasks effectively. At 700 watts with 10 power levels, it's suitable for reheating leftovers, melting butter, or making popcorn. The digital controls are straightforward, and the six presets for common items are a convenient touch.

The +30 seconds button is great for quick additions to the cooking time. Thoughtful features like the mute option to silence beeps and the child safety lock add practical value, especially for families or shared living spaces. Its smaller footprint makes it ideal for areas where counter space is limited, such as a dorm room or office kitchenette.

Cleaning is simple, with a wipeable exterior and a dishwasher-safe glass turntable. While it may not be the fastest or largest microwave, it's a reliable and functional unit for basic heating and cooking needs, offering good features for its size and power class.

Pros

  • Compact design is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or offices.
  • User-friendly digital controls with helpful presets and a +30 seconds button.
  • Includes convenient features like a mute function and child safety lock.
  • Offers 10 distinct power levels for cooking versatility.
  • Easy to clean with a wipeable exterior and a dishwasher-safe turntable.

Cons

  • The 700W power level may result in longer cooking times compared to higher-wattage models.
  • Its smaller internal capacity might not accommodate larger dinner plates or cookware.

Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor - Very spacious 2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity fits large dishes.

Toshiba ML-EM62P(SS) Large Countertop Microwave with Smart Sensor

This 2.2 Cu. Ft. microwave is a powerful and spacious option, well-suited for large families or those who frequently cook big meals.

The 1200W of power heats food quickly, and the large interior can easily handle items like a 16-inch pizza. A key feature is the humidity sensor, which helps prevent overcooking by automatically adjusting the time, resulting in more evenly heated food. The dedicated auto-defrost programs for different types of meat are a convenient touch, providing better results than a simple time-based defrost.

It includes many practical functions, such as an energy-saving mode, a child lock, and the ability to turn off the alert sounds. Given its size, ensure you have adequate counter space, but for high-volume cooking needs, it performs very well.

Pros

  • Very spacious 2.2 Cu. Ft. capacity fits large dishes.
  • High 1200W power ensures fast and even heating.
  • Built-in humidity sensor prevents food from drying out.
  • Specific auto-defrost programs for meat, poultry, and fish.
  • Useful quality-of-life features like a sound on/off option and eco mode.

Cons

  • The large capacity results in a significant physical footprint on the countertop.
  • With numerous features, the control panel may have a slight learning curve.

TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable - Powerful 1200W heating with a large 1.6 cu. ft. capacity.

TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable

This 1200W countertop microwave offers a solid set of features in a family-sized 1.6 cu. ft. package.

The pre-programmed sensor menus are a practical addition, taking the guesswork out of reheating common items like pizza and vegetables. Its large 13.6-inch turntable easily accommodates bigger plates, and the innovative position-memory feature is a thoughtful touch, returning the turntable to its starting position so you can grab a mug handle without reaching inside. Standard functions like auto-defrost and a child lock are all present.

A particularly useful feature is the ability to mute the beeping sounds, which is great for quiet households or late-night use. The black stainless steel finish gives it a modern look that should fit well in most kitchens. Overall, it's a powerful and spacious microwave with some unique convenience features that make daily use a bit easier.

Pros

  • Powerful 1200W heating with a large 1.6 cu. ft. capacity.
  • Helpful sensor menus for automatically cooking popular foods.
  • Unique position-memory turntable returns to its starting point.
  • Option to mute the buzzer for quiet operation.
  • Large 13.6-inch turntable fits full-size dinner plates.
  • Sleek and modern black stainless steel design.

Cons

  • The large external dimensions may take up significant counter space.
  • Protective film on keypad needs to be removed, which can be easily missed.

BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door - Intuitive control panel with a large digital display.

BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door

This microwave offers a solid set of features for everyday use. With 900 watts and 10 power levels, it handles common tasks like reheating and defrosting effectively. The control panel is straightforward, featuring a large, easy-to-read LED display and several useful pre-programmed buttons for items like popcorn and frozen vegetables.

The 30-second express cook function is particularly convenient for quick heating. Its external dimensions make it a good fit for smaller kitchens or dorm rooms, but be mindful of the 10.6-inch turntable, which accommodates standard dinner plates but not larger dishes. The addition of a child safety lock is a thoughtful feature for households with young children.

Overall, it's a practical and functional appliance that performs its core duties without unnecessary complexity, making it a reliable choice for basic microwave needs.

Pros

  • Intuitive control panel with a large digital display.
  • Useful one-touch cooking presets and a 30-second express option.
  • Includes a child safety lock for added security.
  • Compact footprint is ideal for smaller countertops and spaces.
  • Easy-to-open push-button door mechanism.

Cons

  • The 900-watt power level may result in slightly longer cooking times compared to more powerful models.
  • The 10.6-inch turntable might be too small for oversized plates or larger casserole dishes.

COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off - Two-step child lock for enhanced safety.

COMFEE' EM720CPL-PM Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off

This microwave offers a solid range of modern features suitable for most daily needs. The inclusion of a two-step child lock is a notable safety update that provides extra peace of mind for families, though it might require a brief adjustment period. A particularly useful feature is the mute function, which silences all beeps with a long press, making it ideal for late-night use or open-concept living spaces.

The standard one-touch express cook buttons (1-6 minutes) and auto-cook presets for items like popcorn and potatoes perform as expected, simplifying common tasks. Additionally, the energy-saving ECO mode is a thoughtful inclusion for those looking to reduce standby power consumption. While the core functionality is standard, the combination of these quality-of-life additions makes it a well-rounded and considerate appliance for the modern kitchen.

It covers all the essential bases effectively.

Pros

  • Two-step child lock for enhanced safety.
  • Mute function allows for silent operation.
  • Convenient one-touch express cooking and auto-cook presets.
  • Energy-saving ECO mode to reduce standby power consumption.
  • Includes both time and weight defrost options for versatility.

Cons

  • The two-step child lock, while a safety feature, may be slightly inconvenient for users without children.
  • The description does not specify key details like wattage or internal capacity.

Farberware FMWO11AHTBKB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Stee - 1000 watts of power with 10 adjustable levels for cooking flexibility.

Farberware FMWO11AHTBKB 1.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Stee

This Farberware microwave is a solid, functional appliance that handles everyday tasks with ease. With 1000 watts and ten distinct power levels, it provides good control for everything from reheating leftovers to defrosting ingredients by weight or time. The one-touch presets for items like popcorn and potatoes are convenient, as are the express cook buttons for quickly adding time.

At 1.1 cubic feet, it strikes a nice balance, offering a compact footprint for smaller kitchens or offices while still providing enough interior space for standard dinner plates. The bright LED display, kitchen timer, and child safety lock are all practical features that add to its overall usability. It's a straightforward machine that reliably covers all the essential microwave functions without unnecessary complexity.

Pros

  • 1000 watts of power with 10 adjustable levels for cooking flexibility.
  • Convenient one-touch presets and express cooking controls (1-6 min).
  • Compact 1.1 cu. ft. size is ideal for smaller spaces.
  • Clear LED display with a kitchen timer and clock.
  • Includes a child safety lock for added security.

Cons

  • Lacks advanced features like sensor cooking or inverter technology for more even heating.
  • The interior capacity may be too small for larger families or oversized dishes.

TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology - Spacious interior with a large turntable fits bigger dishes.

TOSHIBA ML-EM45PIT(SS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Inverter Technology

This Toshiba microwave offers a compelling combination of size, technology, and user-friendly features. The large 13.6-inch turntable is a definite highlight, easily accommodating family-sized plates and even a 12-inch pizza. The inverter technology seems to deliver on its promise of more even heating and defrosting compared to traditional models.

For everyday use, the smart sensor menus are quite intuitive, taking the guesswork out of cooking common items like vegetables and potatoes. The one-touch quick-start buttons and the option to mute the beeper are also thoughtful additions that enhance the user experience. While the stainless steel and black design looks sharp on the counter, it's worth noting that the control panel is not backlit, which could be a minor inconvenience in dimly lit kitchens.

Overall, it's a solid, feature-rich appliance that performs its core functions very well.

Pros

  • Spacious interior with a large turntable fits bigger dishes.
  • Inverter technology provides consistent and even cooking.
  • Smart sensor menus simplify heating common foods.
  • Ability to mute the buzzer sound is a convenient feature.
  • Quick-start buttons for 1-3 minutes offer fast operation.
  • Modern design with a stainless steel door frame.

Cons

  • Control panel is not backlit, making it difficult to use in low light.
  • The unit's large footprint requires significant counter space.

Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Medium Size Microwave

Size and Capacity

When searching for the best medium size microwave, capacity is the first thing to consider. Medium models typically range from 1.0 to 1.6 cubic feet. This size is ideal for most families, comfortably fitting a standard 12-inch dinner plate, large bowls, and some cookware. Pay attention to the turntable diameter as well; a larger turntable, like the 12.4-inch or 13.6-inch options, ensures your food rotates freely for even heating. Measure your counter space to ensure a good fit.

Power and Performance

Wattage determines how quickly and efficiently your microwave cooks. For a medium size unit, look for a power output between 1000 and 1200 watts. Higher wattage means faster cooking times. For superior performance, consider models with advanced features. Smart sensor cooking, found in several Toshiba models, automatically adjusts cooking time and power by detecting humidity, preventing over or under-cooking. Inverter technology provides a constant stream of power for more even results, especially when defrosting.

Essential Cooking Features

The best medium size microwave models come equipped with features that simplify daily use. One-touch controls for common tasks like '+30 seconds' or 'Express Cook' for 1-6 minutes are incredibly convenient. Look for a variety of presets for items like popcorn, pizza, and vegetables. Versatile defrost options, including by weight and time, offer flexibility for thawing frozen foods accurately. A model with at least 10 adjustable power levels gives you precise control over your cooking.

Convenience and Safety

Modern microwaves include quality-of-life features that enhance the user experience. A mute function or sound on/off option is perfect for late-night snacks without disturbing the household. For families with children, a child safety lock is a crucial feature for peace of mind. Other convenient additions include energy-saving ECO modes to reduce standby power consumption, easy-to-read digital displays, and position-memory turntables that always return to their original position, making it easier to retrieve mugs by their handle.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Medium Size Microwave

What capacity is considered a medium size microwave?

A medium size microwave typically falls between 1.0 and 1.6 cubic feet. This capacity is highly versatile, offering a great balance between a compact footprint and enough interior space to fit standard dinner plates, large bowls, and some casserole dishes. It's an ideal choice for couples, small families, or individuals who need more functionality than a small dorm microwave without sacrificing excessive counter space. The right capacity is a key factor that makes it the best medium size microwave for many families.

How much wattage should a good medium microwave have?

For a medium size microwave, aim for a power level between 1000 and 1200 watts. This range provides a great balance of speed and efficiency for everyday tasks like reheating, defrosting, and cooking. A microwave with 1000W or more will cook food faster and more evenly than lower-wattage models. Higher power is particularly beneficial for cooking

Conclusion: The Final Verdict

The SHARP Countertop Microwave Oven with Removable 10.6" Carousel Turntable this is a reliable and stylish compact microwave with an excellent set of essential features. it is a great choice for those with limited space who need a straightforward and efficient appliance for daily reheating and cooking.