Ever stare at your kitchen counter, wondering if your current microwave is just… a little too small? Or maybe it’s way too big, taking up precious space? You’re not alone! Finding that sweet spot in microwave size can be a real puzzle.
Midsize microwaves are like the Goldilocks of kitchen appliances – not too big, not too small, but just right for many families. But navigating the world of midsize options can feel overwhelming. You want something that fits your dishes, your space, and your budget, without being a hassle to use or clean. It’s easy to get lost in all the features and confusing terms!
That’s where this guide comes in! We’re going to break down what makes a midsize microwave a great choice for your home. We’ll explore the key things to look for, like capacity, power, and handy features, so you can feel confident picking the perfect one. Get ready to find a microwave that makes your kitchen life easier and tastier!
Our Top 5 Midsize Microwave Ovens Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Midsize Microwave Ovens Detailed Reviews
1. TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft
Rating: 9.2/10
The TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS is a 1.2 cubic foot countertop microwave that makes cooking easy. It has a sleek black finish and a 1000-watt cooking power to heat your food quickly. This microwave is designed to be user-friendly and efficient.
What We Like:
- The Smart Humidity Sensor is a game-changer. It automatically figures out how long to cook your food based on how much steam it gives off. This means your meals come out perfectly every time, no more dry chicken or mushy vegetables.
- It has 6 preset menus for common foods like pizza and vegetables, plus sensor reheat. This saves you time and guesswork when you’re in a hurry.
- You get 10 different power levels, which gives you a lot of control over your cooking. You can adjust the power for everything from gentle warming to quickly boiling water.
- The Easy Defrost feature lets you thaw food by weight or time. Plus, the “One Touch Start” lets you begin cooking for 1 to 6 minutes with just one button press.
- The Mute Mode is a really nice touch. You can turn off the annoying beeping sound by holding down the “8” button for a few seconds. This is great for late-night snacks or when others are sleeping.
- The 12.4-inch removable glass turntable is large enough for most dishes and easy to clean.
- It also has an ECO mode to save energy and an easy-to-clean interior.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has 6 preset menus, the description mentions “12 Auto Menus” and then “6 Preset Menus”. It would be clearer if the exact number of auto menus was consistent.
- The input power is 1600 watts, which is higher than the output power of 1000 watts. This might be a consideration for some electrical setups.
Overall, the TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS is a smart and versatile microwave that simplifies meal preparation. Its advanced features make it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
2. BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 8.8/10
Meet the BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven! This stylish stainless steel microwave is just the right size for your kitchen. It’s small but mighty, perfect for heating up snacks or cooking meals. It’s easy to use and has a cool digital display.
What We Like:
- It has special buttons for common foods like popcorn, potatoes, and pizza.
- You can cook with 10 different power levels.
- The 30-second express cook button is super handy for quick heating.
- The big LED screen makes it easy to see what you’re doing.
- It has a child safety lock to keep little ones safe.
- The glass turntable spins your food evenly.
- It’s easy to open with the push-button door.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.7 cubic feet size might be a bit small for very large dishes.
- The 700-watt cooking power is good for basic tasks but might take a little longer for some cooking.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for most kitchens. It offers convenience and safety for your daily cooking needs.
3. BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 9.2/10
The BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 is a powerful 1000-watt microwave that makes cooking and reheating a breeze. Its 1.1 cubic foot capacity fits plenty of food, and the sleek black and stainless steel design looks great in any kitchen. This microwave is designed for ease of use with a simple push-button door and a clear LED display. It also includes a child safety lock, giving you peace of mind.
What We Like:
- It has pre-programmed buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, and frozen vegetables.
- The 10 power settings give you control over how your food cooks.
- Express cooking for 30 seconds is super handy for quick reheating.
- The removable 12.4-inch glass turntable makes cleaning easy.
- The child safety lock is a great feature for families.
- It’s spacious enough for most everyday cooking needs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The door release is a push button, which some users might prefer a handle.
- While the stainless steel accents are nice, the main body is black, which might not match all kitchen decors.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave offers a lot of convenience and power for its price. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and user-friendly appliance.
4. BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door
Rating: 8.5/10
The BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven is a super handy kitchen helper. Its sleek stainless steel and black design looks great on any counter. This microwave makes cooking and reheating food a breeze with its easy-to-use controls and helpful features.
What We Like:
- It has special buttons for common foods like popcorn and pizza.
- 900 watts of power means it heats food quickly.
- There are 10 different power levels to choose from.
- The large LED display is easy to see.
- A child safety lock keeps little hands out.
- The door opens with a simple push-button.
- A removable glass turntable makes cleaning simple.
- It includes a clock and a kitchen timer.
- You can cook for 30 seconds with just one touch.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.9 cubic foot size might be a bit small for very large dishes.
- While the stainless steel door frame looks good, the black enclosure might show fingerprints easily.
This BLACK+DECKER microwave is a solid choice for most kitchens. It offers great features for its price, making meal prep quicker and easier.
5. TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) Countertop Microwave Oven with Smart Sensor and Position Memory Turntable
Rating: 9.3/10
The TOSHIBA ML-EM45P(BS) is a powerful 1200-watt countertop microwave oven that makes cooking and reheating a breeze. Its large 1.6 cubic foot capacity and 13.6-inch turntable can handle family-sized meals and even a 13-inch pizza. This microwave boasts smart sensor menus that automatically adjust cooking time and power for optimal results on popular foods like potatoes and vegetables. Plus, its stylish black stainless steel finish will look great in any kitchen.
What We Like:
- Smart sensor menus take the guesswork out of cooking.
- The large capacity is great for families.
- The position memory turntable is a clever feature that makes using it easier and safer.
- It has a quiet mode, so you can turn off the annoying beeping sound.
- The black stainless steel looks really modern and sleek.
- It comes with a handy popcorn button.
- There are many useful features like auto defrost and multi-stage cooking.
What Could Be Improved:
- The protective film on the keypad needs to be removed before first use, which might be a small hassle for some.
This Toshiba microwave is a fantastic appliance that combines smart technology with a large capacity and stylish design. It’s a great addition to any kitchen for quick and easy meal preparation.
Your Go-To Guide for Midsize Microwave Ovens
Why Choose a Midsize Microwave?
Midsize microwaves are the sweet spot for many kitchens. They’re bigger than compact models, so you can fit larger dishes. They’re also not as huge as countertop giants, saving you valuable counter space. This makes them ideal for families, couples, or anyone who cooks more than just popcorn.
Key Features to Look For
1. Wattage: The Powerhouse
Higher wattage means faster cooking. Most midsize microwaves offer between 800 and 1200 watts. For everyday reheating and cooking, 900-1000 watts is usually great. If you plan to bake or cook more complex meals, aim for 1100 watts or higher.
2. Capacity: How Much Fits Inside?
Midsize microwaves typically range from 0.9 to 1.5 cubic feet. This is enough space for a 9×13 inch baking dish or a whole chicken. Measure your favorite large plates and bowls to make sure they’ll fit comfortably.
3. Cooking Presets: Smart Cooking Helpers
Many midsize microwaves come with special buttons for common foods like popcorn, pizza, potatoes, and beverages. These presets take the guesswork out of cooking. Some advanced models even have sensors that adjust cooking time automatically based on the food’s steam.
4. Turntable: Even Cooking
A turntable rotates your food as it cooks. This ensures your meal heats up evenly on all sides. Most midsize microwaves have this feature, but check if it’s removable for easy cleaning.
5. Interior Light: See What’s Happening
A good interior light lets you check on your food without opening the door. This helps prevent overcooking. Some models offer brighter LED lights.
6. Smart Features: Techy Touches
Some newer microwaves include Wi-Fi connectivity. You can control them with your phone or use voice commands. These features are cool, but not essential for everyone.
Important Materials
Most microwave interiors are made of stainless steel or enamel-coated steel. Stainless steel is durable and looks sleek. Enamel is easy to clean but can chip over time. The exterior is usually plastic or stainless steel. Stainless steel exteriors are more durable and resist fingerprints better.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality Boosters:
- Solid Construction: A microwave that feels sturdy and well-built will last longer.
- Consistent Heating: Does it heat food evenly without cold spots?
- Easy-to-Use Controls: Buttons and a display that are simple to understand and operate.
- Quiet Operation: Some microwaves are noisier than others. A quieter model is more pleasant to use.
Quality Reducers:
- Flimsy Door: A door that feels loose or hard to open/close can be annoying.
- Poorly Placed Controls: Buttons that are hard to reach or see.
- Uneven Heating: This is a major issue that leads to frustration.
- Short Cord: A cord that’s too short limits where you can place the microwave.
User Experience and Use Cases
A good midsize microwave makes your life easier. You can quickly reheat leftovers, defrost frozen ingredients, or cook a simple meal. Families use them for snacks and quick dinners. Busy professionals rely on them for fast lunches. Students find them essential for dorm room cooking. The user experience should be intuitive. You shouldn’t need a manual for basic functions. Cleaning should also be simple. Wipe down the inside and turntable regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best size for a midsize microwave?
A: Midsize microwaves typically range from 0.9 to 1.5 cubic feet. This size fits most family meals and saves counter space.
Q: How many watts do I need?
A: Aim for 900-1000 watts for general use. More watts mean faster cooking.
Q: Are sensor cooking presets useful?
A: Yes, sensor presets automatically adjust cooking time and power for common foods, making cooking easier and more accurate.
Q: Is a turntable important?
A: Absolutely! A turntable rotates food for even heating, preventing cold spots.
Q: What interior material is best?
A: Stainless steel interiors are durable and easy to clean. Enamel-coated steel is also common and simple to wipe down.
Q: How do I clean my microwave?
A: Wipe the interior and turntable with a damp cloth. For tough stains, use a microwave-safe cleaner or a bowl of water with lemon juice heated for a few minutes.
Q: Can I cook full meals in a midsize microwave?
A: Yes, you can cook many meals, especially those that don’t require a lot of browning or crisping. It’s great for casseroles, vegetables, and reheating.
Q: What does “cubic feet” mean for a microwave?
A: Cubic feet refers to the internal volume or capacity of the microwave. A larger cubic feet number means more space inside.
Q: Should I worry about noise level?
A: While microwaves make some noise, a quieter model can be more pleasant, especially in open-plan living spaces.
Q: Are smart features worth the extra cost?
A: Smart features like Wi-Fi control can be convenient if you enjoy technology, but they are not necessary for basic microwave functions.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
My name is Gary Flores, the creator of deepskyblue-owl-132507.hostingersite.com.. With a passion for creating cozy, functional, and beautiful spaces, I share my personal experiences and expertise about everything related to home improvement. From practical tips to design inspiration, my goal is to help you make your home the best it can be.